The Local Paper. Peninsula-Frankston-Greater Dandenong-Casey-Cardinia Edition. Wed., Feb. 4, 2026

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026

Cold Water Crazies

● ● ● ● The Frankston Swim Classic returns this Saturday (Feb. 7) as part of the Frankston Waterfront Festival, alongside one of the most recognisable local swim groups on Port Phillip Bay, the Cold Water Crazies. They are a women-led cold-water swim group that formed during COVID. One friend joined, then another, then strangers walking past asked to take part. What started as a quiet ritual within 5km lockdown limits has grown into a tight-knit and supportive community. These days, 25–30 swimmers regularly gather on the sand, instantly recognisable in tutus.

MAN CHARGED OVER LOCAL COPPER THEFTS

■ Mornington Peninsula Crime Investigation Unit members have arrested and charged a man after executing a warrant in Hastings as part of an ongoing investigation.

Officers attended an address in Villawood Drive about 8.45am on Friday (Jan. 30) and arrested a 26-year-old man

He was interviewed in relation to a number of copper thefts from power poles in the Hastings area since August last year. Officers located a large amount of copper wiring at the property during a search.

The 26-year-old has been charged with theft, dealing with property suspected to be the proceeds of crime and commit indictable offence whilst on bail.

He was bailed to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on April 21.

The investigation into the thefts is ongoing and investigator urge anyone with any information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crime stoppersvic.com.au

GROTH THROWS IN THE TOWEL

● ● Sam Groth, Nepean MLA

■ Just over three years ago, Sam Groth contested and won the Nepean seat in the Victorian State Parliament for the Liberal Party.

Today, after a whirlwind political career that saw him swiftly elevated to the position as Deputy Leader of the State Opposition, Mr Groth is giving politics away.

He is no longer Deputy Opposition Leader, after resigning from the role. He has announced that he will not contest the Nepean seat in the State Election scheduled for late November.

“"After many conversations with my wife and with a great deal of personal thought, I have informed the Leader of the Opposition that I have decided that I cannot continue in Parliament beyond the 2026 election,” Mr Groth said.

The one-term MP says his decision not to contest the seat of Nepean in the November poll has come after realising members of his own party were responsible for some of the "recent public pressure" on his family.

"I have always tried to approach this job with honesty, hard work and a clear focus on the people who put their trust in me," Mr Groth said. "But when you find yourself having to fight against your own team, it becomes impossible to put those interests first.

"This has been an extremely challenging period for my family. We took on this role for the right reasons, to contribute to our community and try to make a positive difference.”

Locals honoured with Aust. awards

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division

■ Ms Justine Mary Clark, Edithvale. For significant service to architecture in a range of appointments.

■ Emeritus Professor Debra Lee Griffiths, McCrae. For significant service to nursing, and to medico-legal education.

■ Dr Sophie Bilicki Holmes, Mt Eliza. For significant service to mental health, to family therapy, and to people with disability. Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division

■ Mrs Beverley Anne Edwards, Koo Wee Rup. For service to the community of the Cardinia region.

■ Mr William Wardrew Ellis, Cranbourne West. For service to the community through emergency response organisations.

■ Mr Mohammad Kamruzzaman, Pakenham. For service to the arts, and to the Bengali community of Melbourne.’

■ Mrs Margaret Elizabeth McArthur, Mt Eliza. For service to the community of Mornington Peninsula.

■ The late Mr Michael David O'Rourke. For service to community sport.

■ Mr Charles Conrad Reis. For service to the community in a range of roles and organisations.

Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM)

■ Mr Andrew Garth Johnson, Drouin. For distinguished service as a member of an Australian fire service.

■ Mr Graham Kirk, Mornington. For distinguished service as a member of an Australian fire service.

Emergency Services Medal (ESM)

■ Mr Tony Marchesani, Blairgowrie. For distinguished service as a member of an Australian emergency service.

Safer for locals, says D’nong MLA

■ Dandenong MLA Gabrielle Williams says that the ew pedestrian crossing at the intersection of Stud Rd and McFees Rd will make it easier and safer for locals to access Dandenong Stadium and the Dandenong Creek Trail

“I’m proud to have worked with the community to have delivered this important project, together,” Ms Williams said.

As part of the works, the right-turning lane from Stud Rd into Mcfees Rd has been extended, and direct access between Mcfees Rd and the two Stud Rd service roads has been closed to improve flow at the intersection.

New access points on the Stud Rd service road have been introduced, connecting properties between Judith St and Mcfees Rd, and between Mcfees Rd and Cheam St with Stud Rd

There is to be improved public transport, with upgrades to bus stop facilities to make them more accessible.

Street lighting is being improved at the intersection to ensure better visibility for all road users and clearer line marking has been installed to indicate ‘keep clear’ access for the Dandenong Stadium

This project was delivered through a $12.6 million joint investment by the Federal and State Governments through the Road Safety Program , with each government committing $6.3 million.

Crews are expected to return in March to start the construction of a shared user path connection for pedestrians and bike riders.

Crime spate in South-East

■ Greater Dandenong Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged three youths following an alleged spate of offending in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs.

The boys, all from the Greater Dandenong area, were arrested on the Princes Hwy in Noble Park on Wednesday afternoon (Jan. 28) about 5.20pm.

Police were called to the area following reports the males were acting suspiciously, and it was believed they may have been involved in several thefts from a gym nearby.

A 17-year-old boy was charged with multiple counts of burglary, theft and theft of motor vehicle from a gymnasium in Noble Park on January 21 and 26, along with a Springvale gymnasium on January 21.

The teen was also interviewed and will be charged on summons in relation to four counts of attempted aggravated burglary and one count of theft of motor vehicle in Huntingdale on January 17 along with burglary and theft of motor vehicle at a gymnasium in Clayton

He was also charged with theft of petrol in Berwick on January 22 and theft of motor vehicle on January 24 in Narre Warren.

A 15-year-old boy has been charged on summons for four attempted aggravated burglaries and theft of motor vehicle in Huntingdale on January 17. In addition, he will be charged on summons for theft of motor vehicle on January 24 in Narre Warren.

A 12-year-old boy has been interviewed and is expected to be charged on summons for theft of motor vehicle on January 24 at Narre Warren along with handling stolen goods.

As part of the ongoing investigation detectives arrested a 13-year-old Bayside girl this morning at a Pakenham address before charging her with burglary and theft of motor vehicle from a gymnasium in Springvale on January 27.

She has been bailed to a appear before a children’s court at a later date.

Police are investigating whether those charged were also involved in an incident on the Monash Fwy where a stolen car crashed into another vehicle and the occupants from the stolen car fled the scene. The investigation remains ongoing.

Works underway at Frankston

■ Works are underway to upgrade safety and connectivity on Cranbourne Rd and Beach St with the installation of a new signalised pedestrian crossing, along with other safety improvements.

As part of these works, there will be a new signalised pedestrian crossing installed on the westbound lanes of Cranbourne Rd near the intersection of Beach St, and a raised pedestrian crossing with flashing lights on Beach St

The new crossing on Cranbourne Rd will link to the existing crossing on the eastbound lanes via a footpath in the centre median, improving access to schools, shops, bus stops and other local amenities.

40-kmh school speed zones will be introduced on Cranbourne Rd and Beach St. The installation of electronic speed limit signs will remind drivers of the low-speed environment during peak school hours.

“We’re improving connections and journeys for people right across Victoria,” said Paul edbrooke, MLA for Frankston.

Unsung heroes

■ Mornington Peninsula’s unsung heroes have been recognised at the 2026 Local Australia Day Awards, celebrating individuals and events whose dedication, compassion and leadership continue to strengthen our community.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said this year’s award recipients reflected the very best of the Peninsula

“Each of these award recipients represents the heart and soul of our community,” Cr Marsh said,.

“Their dedication, resilience and selflessness inspire us all, and it was a privilege to celebrate them with the community at Flinders Civic Hall on Australia Day

“This year’s honourees remind us that real change happens through care, connection and people stepping up for one another.”

Each of the 2026 award recipients has made a meaningful and lasting impact across the Mornington Peninsula , through tireless service, advocating and an unwavering commitment.”

■ Somerville Times Editor Jamie

is facing Court over $16,000 in unpaid fines.

Council Watch Victloria says more than $16,000 in unpaid parking and toll fines are owed by Scicluna

It said he appeared at Frankston Magistrates’ Court to answer a dozen enforcement matters brought by three metropolitan councils — Melbourne, Port Phillip and Wyndham Sciluna said his mental health was “very bad” and he was homeless when he received some of the penalties, the Herald Sun reported.

“The court heard Mr Scicluna had been diagnosed with a mental health condition and was receiving treatment,” the daily newspaper said.

“When asked if he had received any legal advice ahead of the hearing Mr Scicluna told the court he could not afford a lawyer.”

Meanwhile, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council issued a statement to say that it has informed Mr Sciluna that it will cease engagement with him and his organisation.

“We have clear expectations regarding ethical conduct, fair and accurate reporting, and respectful behaviour.”

Suburban

MELBOURNEWIDE

Smartphone tickets

■ Victorians are a step closer to tapping on and travelling with their credit card, smartphone or watch, with the next stage of contactless payment testing on the Myki network.

After successfully installing nearly 3000 new ticket readers at more than 280 Mykienabled train stations, a small number of controlled, closed-group trials will begin early this month.

The upgrade remains on track to deliver modern contactless technology across the rail network over coming months.

This next phase will involve a closedgroup technical testing in a laboratory environment with Department of Transport and Planning staff across three days, allowing the system to be tested across a wide range of bank cards and smart devices.

Further tests will take place at a small number of selected railway stations, designed to ensure the new system performs reliably in real-world conditions, ahead of tap and go payments being switched on early this year.

The trial will test key customer functions, including refunds, customer support and contact center processes, to ensure the system works smoothly with minimal impact to passengers and no impact on services.

Public trials will begin over the coming months, allowing passengers at selected stations to take part and provide feedback ahead of contactless payments being switched on for full fare paying passengers on Myki enabled train lines soon after.

GREATER MELBOURNE

Gym thefts: 4 charged

■ Four people have been charged after a series of alleged thefts at gyms across Melbourne

It is alleged a group of offenders stole a set of car keys from a Port Melbourne gym before being confronted by staff on Friday, January 16.

The alleged offenders fled the scene and the vehicle in relation to the keys was not stolen.

Investigators allege the same offenders stole a gold Subaru Liberty from a gym carpark in Nunawading later that day.

Early on the Saturday morning (Jan. 17), police spotted the allegedly stolen Subaru Liberty travelling at high speeds through Reservoir.

The Subaru was followed to Richmond, where it was seen pulling into a carpark.

An attempt was made to intercept the car, but it allegedly fled the scene at speed and crashed through a boom gate.

The vehicle was allegedly dumped a short time later near the intersection of Lennox St and Rowena Pde. Officers moved in and arrested the four alleged occupants of the Subaru.

The alleged driver, an 18-year-old Albert Park man, was charged with:

■ reckless conduct endangering serious injury

■ driving in a manner dangerous

■ unlicensed driving

■ burglary

■ theft

■ handle stolen goods

■ theft of a motor vehicle

■ various bail offences

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

Three teenage boys were charged and bailed to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

MULGRAVE

L-plater off the road

■ Nunawading Highway Patrol officers have taken an inexperienced learner driver off the road after he was allegedly caught driving over 220-km/h in Mulgrave

Officers were conducting speed checks on vehicles on the Monash Fwy when they detected an Audi travelling at an alleged speed of 226-kmh in a 100-kmh zone about 3am on Monday, January 19.

Police intercepted the vehicle near Jacksons Rd and spoke to the L-plater.

The learner was accompanied by an adult passenger however she was allegedly a disqualified driver.

The driver, a 23-year-old Narre Warren man, is expected to be charged on summons with unaccompanied learner and speeding offences. The Audi was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1016.

FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE

TUNSTALL SQUARE SHOP FIRE

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to an incident at Tunstall Square Shopping Centre in Doncaster East, on Tuesday, January 21, following multiple calls to Triple Zero (000) reporting a shop fire.

FRV arrived on scene to find significant smoke and flames issuing from the shopping strip and immediately escalated the response.

Affected was tyhe discount store, and the bakers and butchers shops alongside.

Firefighters in breathing apparatus worked to attack the blaze and prevent it from spreading further.

A community advice message was issued for smoke in the area.

Victoria Police were on scene assisting with traffic control. Ambulance Victoria are also in attendance.

The incident was deemed suspicious and is under investigation by Victoria Police. COBURG

Car theft attempt

■ Merri-Bek Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man after alleged attempted car theft and an assault in Coburg on December 1.

It is alleged a man attempted to steal a grey Hyundai in the presence of the vehicle’s owner at a May St property about 12.20pm.

The alleged offender assaulted the owner causing him to fall to the ground backwards.

It is alleged the offender, accompanied by a woman and another man, fled the scene in a Lexus before driving over the victim’s foot.

The victim, a 60-year-old Coburg man, was taken to hospital with a serious foot injury.

Following an extensive investigation into the incident, detectives arrested a 36-yearold man from Sydenham on December 14.

The man is charged with attempted theft of a motor vehicle, recklessly cause injury and common law assault.

He was remanded to appear before Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on May 26.

HOPPERS CROSSING

Trio arrested

■ Police have arrested three people and recovered an allegedly stolen vehicle in Hoppers Crossing

Community News

LITTLE RIVER 194-kmh in 100 zone

■ Geelong Highway Patrol officers were conducting speed checks on the Princes Fwy at Little River about 2am on January 20 when they detected a black Honda Accord traveling at 194-kmh in a 100-kmh zone.

Police immediately swung into action and intercepted the Honda and spoke to the driver, a 21-year-old man from St Albans

He was interviewed by police and has been charged with conduct endangering life, speed dangerous and other traffic related offences.

His car has been impounded for 30 days with towing costs of $1159.

The 21-year-old will face Geelong Magistrates’ Court on March 3.

MERNDA

Area cordoned off

■ Police have arrested two youths following an aggravated burglary in Mernda on Tuesday morning, January 20.

Officers were called to an address in Oakwood St about 2.30am after residents reported that car keys had been taken from inside the house and a Toyota Corolla had been stolen.

Officers responded to reports of a white Holden Commodore driving erratically, mounting gutters and crashing into a parked unoccupied vehicle on Market Rd in Werribee about 2.30pm on Monday, January 19.

It is alleged the Holden took off from the crash and continued to drive to Hoppers Crossing

Reports indicated the Holden had damage to the front of the vehicle and smoke was coming from the engine block.

The Holden pulled over near the intersection of Bolger Crescent and Spring Drive and it is alleged one of the occupants was seen jumping on the bonnet of the car.

Police quickly moved in before the Holden allegedly took off again, resulting in one of the occupants, a man, falling from the moving vehicle.

The Holden came to a complete stop and officers attempted to arrest the three alleged occupants.

One male allegedly refused to follow police direction and officers deployed a taser.

The three alleged occupants, two men and a teenage girl, were arrested.

The men were taken to hospital for minor injuries under police guard and a 15-year-old girl remains in custody.

The trio will be interviewed by investigators.

Officers seized a machete and a long kitchen knife at the scene.

It is alleged the Holden was stolen from a Hawthorn address early hours on Friday morning, January 16.

The investigation remains ongoing.

FITZROY

Fatal shooting

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged three men following a fatal shooting in Fitzroy.

A 21-year-old Heidelberg

man was arrested at Melbourne Airport early on Monday, January 19.

He was interviewed by investigators and charged with one count of murder.

The man was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

Two men, a 19-year-old from Heidelberg West and a 20-year-old from Bundoora were arrested, interviewed and charged with murder.

Both were remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 15.

The charges follow the fatal shooting a boy near the intersection of Brunswick and King William Sts just after midnight on Saturday, January 3.

Medical assistance was provided however the 16-year-old Fitzroy boy passed away at the scene.

Police are continuing to work to establish whether there are any links between the Fitzroy shooting and the stabbing of two men in Carlton on December 31.

Victoria Police Crime Command detectives, together with regional police and other specialist units including Taskforce VIPER, have established Operation Firelong to investigate both incidents and prevent ongoing violence.

The investigations remain ongoing.

TOWN HALL

Exposure case

■ Police arrested a man after he allegedly exposed himself near Town Hall Railway Station in Melbourne’s CBD

The man allegedly exposed himself on the footpath on Swanston St in front of a large crowd attending festivities.

He also allegedly tried to kiss a woman. The 37-year-old man was arrested at the scene and taken to hospital for observation. He is expected to be charged on summons.

Police searched the area and the car was sighted on Plenty Rd, South Morang, before turning into an estate near Rivergum Drive

The area was cordoned off and vehicle immobilisation devices were successfully used on Blosom Park Drive, Mill Park.

The car continued on to Childs Rd where it was abandoned and the two occupants ran from the scene.

A 17-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy, both from the Whittlesea area, were arrested after a short search.

TERANG

Car into home

■ A driver has allegedly blown more than double the limit after a car crash in Terang in the early hours of Sunday morning, January 25.

Police swiftly responded to multiple Triple Zero calls reporting a car had crashed into a house on High St about 3am.

Officers from Warrnambool and Camperdown arrived at the property to find the alleged driver still on scene.

Both the alleged driver and people home at the time were not injured.

It is alleged the driver, a 19-year-old Boorcan man holding a probationary licence, provided an evidentiary breath test reading of 0.132.

His licence was immediately suspended and he is expected to be charged on summons with driving and drink-driving offences.

The house sustained extensive damage requiring a building assessor to attend later today.

MELBOURNE

CBD stabbing

■ Detectives from Yarra Crime Investigation Unit have charged a man following an alleged stabbing in the Melbourne’s CBD

The 20-year-old Reservoir man has been charged with intentionally cause serious injury, assault with weapon, unlawful assault, possess controlled weapon, commit indictable offence whilst on bail, state false name when requested and contravene bail conditions.

The charges follow an alleged altercation between two men at the intersection of Flinders St and Katherine Place about 11.30pm on Tuesday, January 20.

A man was allegedly stabbed and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Police believe the victim, a 20-year-old man of no fixed address, may have intervened after he came across the alleged offender yelling at a woman.

The offender fled on foot and was arrested on a nearby tram after the man’s movements were picked up on safe city cameras. He was remanded to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court SEDDON

Car fire questions

■ A woman and man have been interviewed after a car was allegedly set alight in Seddon on Monday afternoon, January 19. Emergency services responded to reports of a car ablaze on Walter St

BRUNSWICK

Sexual assault

■ Fawkner Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives have charged a man following a sexual assault.

The 53-year-old man has been charged with three counts of sexual assault of a child under 16 and one count of unlawful assault.

The charges follow an appeal by police for information after a 14-year-old girl was sexually assaulted in Brunswick on Tuesday, January 6.

The teenager was waiting at traffic lights on the corner of Sydney Rd and Albion St when she was approached by an unknown man, who it is alleged tried to kiss her before she was sexually assaulted.

The Hadfield man was arrested in Brunswick. He has been bailed to appear before Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on May 21.

ST KILDA

Anitsemitic incident

■ Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit detectives have arrested a second teenage boy following a report of antisemitic behaviour in St Kilda East

The 16-year-old was arrested in Melton and interviewed in relation to the incident alleged to have occurred on Glen Eira Road about 9.50pm on January 19.

He was also interviewed in relation to an aggravated burglary in Ormond on January 13 and motor vehicle theft in Caulfield on January 10.

The boy from the Knox area was charged with aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle and numerous driving offences.

He was remanded to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

A 15-year-old from the Yarra Ranges area was arrested on January 21 and charged with theft of motor vehicle.

He was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

MELTON

Obscene exposure

■ Police have charged a boy following an alleged series of obscene exposures and sexual assaults in Melton Detectives from the Brimbank Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team executed a search warrant at a property in the Melton area, arresting a 13-yearold boy on Thursday morning, January 22.

It follows a series of incidents at Navan Park in Melton , where a male was seen exposing himself while riding a bicycle on January 11and 14.

It is further alleged sexual assaults at the same location occurred against one woman on January 16 and two separate women on January 21.

The 13-year-old was charged with sexual assault (x3) and sexual activity directed at another (x4).

He was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

SOUTHBANK

5 arrests after brawl

■ Melbourne Divisional Response Unit detectives have arrested five men in relation to an alleged serious affray at a Southbank licensed premises.

It is alleged that a brawl took place overnight on November 15 at the premises on Southbank Boulevard.

It is alleged that four males from NSW were assaulted in a bathroom by two males, before the altercation continued into another room.

All those allegedly involved had left the area once police arrived.

The four males attended a hospital hours later.

A 28-year-old man sustained non-lifethreatening injuries, and the three other victims aged 24, 26 and 32 sustained minor injuries.

Detectives from Melbourne’s Divisional Response Unit have been investigating the alleged incident, which was filmed and circulated on social media.

This resulted in eight search warrants being executed on Wednesday, January 21, at three properties in Point Cook, two in Altona North and one each in Altona Meadows, Hoppers Crossing and Laverton. Five men were arrested, including a 29-yearold man from Altona Meadows, a 22-yearold man from Point Cook, an 18-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing, and two 18year-old men from Altona North

PAIR CHARGED AFTER POLICE CAR RAMMING

■ Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged two men after a police vehicle was allegedly repeatedly rammed in Dandenong.

Officers spotted a Jeep with alleged stolen plates travelling on Princes Hwy about 8.05pm on Thursday, Januaryc 22.

They monitored the vehicle for a short period before it came to a stop in a motel car park.

The Jeep allegedly crashed head-on into the unmarked police car twice, injuring the driver.

A police officer exited their vehicle, before the Jeep allegedly drove at speed towards him and continued to crash into the police vehicle several more times.

The detective leading senior constable discharged several shots at the vehicle, which both impacted the Jeep

Numerous other police units arrived at the scene and took the Jeep’s two occupants into custody uninjured.

An 18-year-old man from Seaford was charged with:

■ six counts of aggravated intentional exposure of emergency worker to risk by driving

■ theft of motor vehicle

■ handle stolen goods

■ possess prohibited weapon

■ unlicensed driving

■ drive in speed/manner dangerous

He was to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

A 38-year-old from South Melbourne was charged with:

■ theft of motor vehicle

■ possess drug of dependence

■ handle stolen goods

■ possess property suspected of being proceeds of crime

He was bailed to appear before Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on June 5.

One officer was taken to hospital with minor head injuries.

Professional Standards Command have oversight of the ongoing investigation, as is standard practice when a police firearm is discharged.

KENSINGTON

Offensive language

■ Melbourne North police are investigating a prejudice-motivated incident that occurred in Kensington

It is understood an unknown male, who was jogging in J.J. Holland Park on Childers St, yelled an offensive slur at a 34-year-old man about 4.20pm on Friday, January 2.

The victim, who was walking his dogs at the time of the incident, managed to take a photo of the male before he fled the scene on foot.

The man is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance and is thought to be aged in his 50s, with a shaved head.

He was seen wearing dark coloured running shorts.

It is believed that he regularly attends the reserve.

Investigators have released CCTV of a man who may be able to assist with their enquiries.

“There is absolutely no place for hate-based behaviour in our society and police will not tolerate such activity,” a Victoria Police representative said.

Exposure at Southern Cross

● ● ● ● Police want to speak with this man.

■ Transit Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for witnesses following an incident at Southern Cross Railway Station

Investigators have been told a 22-year-old woman was waiting on a platform for a train just after 3.30pm on October 26.

She observed an unknown male facing her from another platform performing a lewd act.

The man is perceived to be of Indian/Middle Eastern appearance, aged 25-35-years-old, thin build, black hair and a trimmed beard.

Detectives have released an image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their investigations.

CITY

Monuments vandalised

■ Police are investigating after two monuments at Flagstaff Gardens were damaged in West Melbourne

It is believed machinery was used to pull down the Pioneer monument which was then vandalised between 10pm on Wednesday January 21 and 6am Thursday January 22. The nearby Separation Memorial was also defaced with red paint. A crime scene was established and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV or dashcam or anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

GEELONG

Statewide

Stolen van nabbed

■ The alleged driver of a stolen van has been arrested following a collision in Geelong South Officers attempted to intercept a Toyota van on Wilsons Road in Newcomb around midnight on Thursday, Januaryc 22.

It is alleged the van took off at a fast rate of speed on the wrong side of the road.

A short time later the van was spotted allegedly running a red light on Yooringa Avenue in Norlane.

The same van allegedly collided with a truck at the intersection of Latrobe Tce and Kilgour St in South Geelong after running another red light.

The alleged driver was fully ejected from the van as a result of the collision.

The man allegedly picked himself up and attempted to get back inside the van before taking off from the scene on foot.

Members of the community, having witnessed the incident, detained the man until police promptly arrived and arrested him.

The man, 29-years-old from Ballarat, was taken to hospital under police guard.

The driver of the truck was not injured.

Investigators allege the van was stolen from an Ocean Grove address earlier. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

LILYDALE

Police car rammed

■ Five teens were arrested after they allegedly rammed a marked police vehicle in a stolen car in Lilydale.

Officers initially observed the Ford Focus travelling on the Maroondah Hwy about 1.30pm on Thursday, January 22.

The Ford became stuck in traffic and police attempted to box it in with their vehicle.

It is alleged the stolen Ford rammed into the police vehicle before driving off. The officers were not injured.

It was last seen travelling on Swansea Rd in Montrose, before police received a report of a suspicious loiter in Bayswater about 2.45pm.

It was reported that five teens had allegedly pulled up on Burdekin St in a Ford Focus before heading to a nearby bus stop.

Determined officers located and intercepted a bus in the area and located the five teens onboard.

The teens, three 13-year-old girls and one 13-year-old boy from the Bayside, Glen Eira, Frankston and Yarra Ranges areas and a 16-year-old girl from the Latrobe area, are currently in custody and will be interviewed.

The Ford was allegedly stolen from Palmer St in Richmond on January 22 about 9am.

LOCKWOOD

Serious collision

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal collision in Lockwood

It is understood a white Ford Territory and white Toyota Hilux dual cab collided on Crusoe Rd about 9.30am on Thursday, January 22.

The female passenger of the Territory died at the scene.

The male driver of the Territory was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

SEBASTOPOL

Non-fatal shooting

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a man following a non-fatal shooting in Sebastopol. With assistance from the Special Operations Group, a 30-year-old man and a 28-year-old woman were taken into custody at a Delacombe address. The man was interviewed and subsequently charged with reckless conduct endanger life, intentionally cause injury, recklessly cause injury, common law assault, prohibited person use firearm, possess firearm when a Firearm Prohibition Order applies, use firearm in dangerous manner, commit indictable offence whilst on bail, possess cannabis, possess controlled weapon, possess prohibited weapon, and handle stolen goods.

The driver of the Hilux, a 25-year-old man from Cardigan Village, was arrested at the scene.

He was taken to hospital with minor injuries under police guard.

Police are working to establish the circumstances of the collision and the investigation is ongoing.

MAFFRA

Murder charge

■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man in relation to a fatal assault in Maffra on Monday, January 19.

A 45-year-old Maffra man has been charged with one count of murder.

He was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

The charge follows an incident where emergency services responded to reports of a man found unresponsive at a Mills St address about 12 Noon on Monday, January 19.

The 63-year-old Maffra man was treated at the scene but was unable to be revived.

Police believe the parties involved were known to each other.

BULLA

Twice the limit

■ Police nabbed a drink driver over twice the limit in Bulla

Officers initially detected the 56-year-old driver allegedly travelling at 99-kmh in a 60kmh zone along Bulla Rd about 3pm on Saturday, January 24.

The driver was pulled over and undertook a preliminary breath test, which returned a positive result.

An evidentiary breath text was then performed, which returned an alleged reading of .122.

The driver from Sunbury had his licence immediately suspended.

His car was impounded at a cost of $1064, and he is expected to be charged on summons with traffic offences.

ENDEAVOUR HILLS

Crash teens flee

■ A teenage boy was arrested and a further seven teens fled from a stolen car following a collision on the Monash Fwy

The stolen white Mazda 3 was spotted by members of the public driving erratically inbound on the freeway in Berwick about 10.15am on Saturday, January 24.

The Mazda then collided into a Mercedes SUV, causing it to flip onto its roof just east of the South Gippsland Hwy about 10.25am.

Up to eight teenage boys were seen fleeing the Mazda before a member of the public caught and held down the teenage driver until police arrived. The 15-year-old boy was to be interviewed by police.

The remaining seven teens fled into nearby bushland and Air Wing were called to assist with their search.

The female driver and sole occupant of the Mercedes sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was conveyed to hospital.

The Mazda was stolen from a car park in Noble Park on December 30.

While police were responding to the Endeavour Hills incident, officers observed a Nissan Navara stationary in the emergency lane on the Monash Fwy, Hallam.

As officers attempted to intercept the Nissan , the driver and passenger fled inbound in the vehicle.

A short time later, the Nissan collided into six vehicles on the freeway at the Belgrave Hallam Rd off-ramp before the driver and his passenger fled on foot.

Police were not in pursuit of the vehicle at the time of the incident.

Officers are not aware of any injuries as a result of this incident.

No arrests have been made and police do not believe the two incidents are related.

The Nissan was stolen from a car park at the Cranbourne Railway Station on January 20.

MILL PARK

Driver blew .232

■ A driver has provided a breath test reading at Mill Park, allegedly more than four times the legal limit.

Epping Police on patrol spotted a ute allegedly swerving all over the road and mounting a kerb, all without headlights on, along Fred Hollows Way in the early hours of Saturday morning, January 24.

Officers intercepted the ute and the driver provided an alleged breath test reading of 0.232.

The 31-year-old Mill Park man allegedly went on to tell police that his reason for getting behind the wheel was “stupidity” and he had spent too many hours at the local watering hole after work.

His licence was immediately suspended for 12 months and he is set to be charged on summons for drinking driving related offences.

FERNTREE GULLY

Died at the scene

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal crash in Ferntree Gully on Saturday afternoon, January 24.

It is understood a car crashed into a pole on Oaklands Avenue about 5.55pm.

Two passengers of the vehicle died at the scene.

The male driver was taken to hospital under police guard via ambulance.

Circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established and the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers

ARREST AFTER SUSPICIOUS GOULBURN VALLEY FIRES

■ Police have arrested a man following a series of fires in the Goulburn Valley region. It is alleged five fires were deliberately lit on Shepparton-Barmah Rd during the early hours of Friday January 23 and Saturday January 24.

The alleged incidents include:

■ two deliberately lit grass fires in Kaarimba that occured between 5am and 5.40am on Friday January 23

■ two deliberately lit grass fires in Bunbartha that occurred between 12.50am and 1.10am on Saturday January 24

■ one deliberately lit grass fire in Kaarimba that occurred about 1.20am on Saturday January 24

Fire authorities extinguished each of the blazes and there were no injuries.

Officers intercepted a vehicle of interest on Murray Valley Hwy in Nathalia about 3.30pm.

A 59-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested and was expected to be interviewed.

The investigation remains ongoing.

WARRAGUL

Crossbows, tasers seized

■ Illicit Firearms Squad detectives have charged a man and seized 55 exhibits including 3D printed firearms, imitation firearms and crossbows as part of an investigation into the manufacture of illicit firearms.

With assistance from Baw Baw Crime Investigation Unit, a search warrant was executed at a residential address in Warragul on Thursday, January 15.

Seven 3D printed firearms, five imitation firearms, two crossbows, 10 tasers, 3D printed magazines containing ammunition and numerous firearm parts and 3D printed firearm components were located at the residential property.

A 39-year-old Warragul man was not present at the time of the warrant but later handed himself in on Monday, January 19.

He has since been charged with possess traffickable quantity of firearms, possess unregistered general category handguns, possess imitation firearms, possess prohibited weapons, possess equipment to manufacture firearms and possess ammunition without licence.

The man was bailed to appear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on April 16.

STAWELL

Man dies

■ Police are investigating the circumstances following a fatal crash in Stawell

Emergency services were called to the scene on Pomonal Rd, near Pipetrack Rd, about 4.15pm on Wednesday, January 21.

It appears the driver of the vehicle travelling north, has veered from the road into a ditch and crashed into a tree.

The male driver and sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene.

Police will prepare a report for the Coroner

want to speak with this man.

■ Detectives from Banyule-Nillumbik Crime Investigation Unit are investigating a collision in Eltham.

It is understood a white 2016 Holden Colorado utility, and a white 2021 Toyota Corolla sedan collided on Bolton St about 7am on Thursday, December 11.

Officers have been told both drivers pulled over to the side of the road to exchange details and assess the damage to the vehicles.

The unknown driver of the Toyota provided false details to the driver of the Holden , before gathering some personal items from the vehicle and fleeing on foot south on Bolton St.

The driver of the Holden, a 59-year-old Epping man, was not injured in the collision.

Police attended the scene and while searching the Toyota, located a firearm inside the passenger seat footwell.

Subsequent checks of the Toyota revealed that it was bearing cloned plates at the time of the collision.

Investigators have released an image and CCTV of a man who may be able to assist with their enquiries.

He is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, thought to be in his late 20s or early 30s, has short brown hair and was unshaven.

He was seen wearing an orange hi-vis long-sleeved shirt, blue work pants and tan work boots.

Across Victoria

TOLMIE

Teenager injured

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a crash in Tolmie which has left a teenager with critical injuries.

Officers were called to the MansfieldWhitfield Rd scene, between Sawpit Gully and Spring Creek Rds just before 3am on Saturday, January 24.

Investigators believe the vehicle was travelling north when it impacted a tree causing significant damage.

The passenger in the vehicle, a 17-yearold boy from Mansfield, had to be cut from the crushed vehicle before he was airlifted to hospital with life threatening injuries.

The driver, a 21-year-old boy from Merton, was also cut from the Ford sedan. He was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.

Detectives are investigating whether another vehicle may have been involved.

MOUNT ELIZA

Porsche burg bust

■ A man had his Australia Day long weekend cut short after being charged following an alleged aggravated burglary in Mount Eliza.

It is alleged a man gained access to a property on Glen Shian Lane about 3am on Saturday, January 24.

Whilst inside the house the man allegedly stole a wallet and car keys before fleeing in the owners silver Porsche. Residents home at the time were not injured.

Officers responded to a call to Triple Zero and spotted the Porsche driving through Chelsea a short time later.

The Porsche was followed to Parry Court, Carrum Downs, where officers moved in and arrested a man. Police seized a wallet at the scene.

A 22-year-old Frankston man was charged with aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle and driving while disqualified.

He was remanded to appear before Frankston Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, January 27.

KEW

Death after stabbing

■ The body of a man was found in Antwerp as part of the ongoing investigation into a stabbing in Kew. Local police made the discovery following a call to Triple Zero around 6.15am on Wednesday, January 21.

Boroondara Crime Investigation Unit detectives were actively searching for the 18year-old Camberwell man after a woman was stabbed outside a Miller Grove home about 1am.

Investigators have been told the woman had returned to the address following a night out with friends when she was confronted by a man known to her and stabbed.

The 18-year-old Kew woman was taken to hospital with what was initially believed to be life threatening injuries.

Police have been updated the woman attained a stable condition.

Detectives are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident.

The death of the man is not being treated as suspicious, and police will prepare a report for the Coroner

EAST MALVERN

Aggravated burglary

■ Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for assistance following an aggravated burglary in Malvern East

Investigators have been told offenders have entered a house on Ferncroft Avenue around 3.30am on November 7.

There were five occupants, ranging in age from 19 to 56, asleep inside the home as the offenders stole several watches, a wallet, jewellery and car keys.

One of the occupants woke up and found one of the offenders sitting in his vehicle and one standing near it.

The occupant approached the offenders who then ran off.

A third offender appeared and confronted the male occupant and his daughters who retreated into the house.

The offenders then stole the BMW, colliding with a fence on the way out.

The stolen car was dumped about 200 meters down the road and all offenders got into a silver Toyota with stolen number plates. The victims bank card was used a short time later at a drive thru restaurant in Langwarrin

2 flee D’nong burglary scene

■ Police have charged two men after they allegedly fled the scene of a burglary in a stolen car in Dandenong South on Wednesday night (Jan. 28).

The duo allegedly broke into a car detailing business on Discovery Rd and stole a Jeep Cherokee just before 11pm.

The business owner was notified and called police, before the Air Wing quickly spotted the car travelling south on FrankstonDandenong Rd.

The Jeep stopped on Illawarra Crescent in Dandenong North , where the passenger got out of the vehicle and entered a property.

The driver continued into Avon Court where they pulled over and were arrested.

Officers then entered the Illawarra Crescent address where they located the passenger allegedly hiding in a cupboard.

They were interviewed by detectives and Operation Trinity officers.

A 31-year-old Carrum Downs man was charged with burglary, theft of motor vehicle, handle stolen goods, fail to stop on police direction and commit indictable offence whilst on bail.

He was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on January 29.

A 30-year-old Loch Sport man was charged with burglary and theft of motor vehicle.

He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’

Operation Trinity is solely dedicated to preventing and responding to burglaries and car

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

Applications open

■ Cardinia Council is inviting local community groups, not-for-profit organisations and volunteer-led initiatives to apply for gGrants to help fund projects that improve health, wellbeing, resilience and social connection.

thefts – running from dusk to dawn across Melbourne each night.

This operation sees uniform police supported by a range of specialist units, including the Dog Squad, Public Order Response and Air Wing

In 2025, Operation Trinity led to the arrest of 612 burglars and car thieves a combined 1436 times.

That equates to almost four burglars and car thieves arrested every single day.

While arrests remain high, the primary aim of Operation Trinity is to prevent people having their homes broken into in the first place.

To achieve this, Trinity units conduct a range of disruption activities, including saturating suburbs based on intelligence, intercepting thousands of vehicles each month, and nightly patrols around the homes of Victoria’s most prolific burglars and youth gang members.

These offenders are largely opportunistic by nature –seeking easy access points through unlocked doors and windows.

Police implore the community to take simple steps such as locking all doors and windows on your home and car.

Coffee club

■ The City of Casey is bringing back its monthly Business Coffee Club , a relaxed catch-up designed for homebased business owners.

NORTHCOTE

Crash investigation

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Northcote on Sunday morning (Feb. 1).

It is understood a woman was crossing St George’s Rd, near the intersection of Emmaline St, when she was struck by a car about 10.15am.

The pedestrian, an 80-year-old woman from Northcote, was taken to hospital with critical injuries where she later died.

The driver of the car, a 53-year-old woman, stopped at the scene.

GREENSBOROUGH

Aiden missing

■ Police have been searching for missing man Aiden

The 27-year-old was last seen in Greensborough around 3.30am on Sunday morning (Feb. 1).

He is described as having a slim build with strawberry blond hair and facial hair. Police and family have concerns Aiden’s welfare as his absence is out of character. Anyone who sights Aiden is urged to contact Heidelberg Police Station on 9450 8000.

ALLEGED FRAUD: ARREST AT TOORAK

■ A man who has been wanted by Victoria Police for several years over multiple alleged deception offences has been arrested in Toorak

The 56-year-old is accused of making false documents and defrauding dozens of people out of tens of thousands of dollars.

It is believed there are at least 30 victims across Australia, totalling almost $200,000.

Following extensive enquiries and with the assistance of South Australia Police, the 56-year-old man was arrested by the Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit at a home on May Rd, about 11.30am.

During a search of a vehicle at the property, police located identification documents, and a quantity of a white powder believed to be cocaine.

The man of no permanent fixed address was charged with three counts of obtain financial advantage by deception, three counts of theft,two counts of make/use false documents, as well as trafficking and possessing cocaine.

He appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court where he was denied bail to reappear on February 10.

Police will allege in court the man had lured unsuspecting prospective buyers into paying deposits for classic vehicles advertised online, but ceased communication after the money was transferred.

HARCOURT

Tragic outcome

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Harcourt on Friday afternoon (Jan. 30).

Emergency services were called to reports a truck had struck a pedestrian walking on the Calder Fwy near the Midland Highway overpass about 1.15pm. The pedestrian died at the scene.

The truck driver stopped at the scene and was not physically injured.

The circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established and an investigation is ongoing.

KEILOR EAST

Scrub fire battle

■ A fire at Keilor East,, measuring six hectares has been contained.

Fire Forestry Management Victoria crews continued to black out throughout day on Friday (Jan. 30) with Fire Rescue Victoria support.

Victoria Police were on scene to assist with operations.

The Western Ring Road was re-opened although Altona bound lanes had reduced speed limits between Airport Drive and Sunshine Avenue.

The incident is deemed suspicious.

Some 38 FRV and CFA appliances and 150 firefighters were committed to the firefight.

Multiple callers to Triple Zero (000) reported the grass and scrub fire.

Firefighters arrived on scene within seven minutes to find a grass and scrub fire approximately 1.5 kilometre x 1 kilometre spreading toward the Western Ring Road VicRoads closed the Geelong bound lane of the Western Ring Road between Sunshine Avenue and Keilor Park Drive Crews, assisted by CFA , scalated the response and are currently making entry to the fire to extinguish it.

A community advice was issued for a Grass Fire in the area.

57 years. Since 1969.

Local Briefs

Tulla grass fire

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to several calls of a grass and scrub fire impinging on multiple factories in Tullamarine on Tuesday afternoon, January 27.

Crews arrived on scene within seven minutes to find an area approximately 100 by 20 metres in size on fire, so the response was escalated.

The fire was growing steadily and spreading rapidly towards a factory area.

FRV fire trucks were placed strategically to protect the factories and used to attack the fire.

There was no fire impingement of the factory area.

Crews remained on scene ensuring full extinguishment. CFA units were also in attendance assisting.

Visa offences

■ A South Sudan-born man was set to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court , charged with allegedly failing to comply with his visa-mandated conditions, as well as drug and bail offences.

The Australian Federal Police charged the man, 39, after he was located in Melbourne

It was alleged that the man breached a condition of his Commonwealth visa by failing to maintain his electronic monitoring device.

The man was charged with:

■ Eight counts of fail to maintain electronic monitoring device,

■ One count of obstruction of Commonwealth public official,

■ One count of possess cannabis,

■ Two counts of contravene conduct condition of bail; and

■ Eight counts of commit indictable offence whilst on bail.

Suspicious blaze

■ A fire at South Morang has been deemed suspicious and will be investigated by Victoria Police.

Fire Rescue Victoria supported by CFA responded to an incident near the intersection of Topaz Grove and Girvan Place after a caller to Triple Zero (000) reported a column of smoke.

Forest Fire Management Victoria was on scene to fell dangerous trees impacted by the fire. Around 10 hectares of land was burnt.

Air operations were used to attack the fire in difficult to access bush areas.

The firefighting effort involved seven FRV appliances, 15 CFA appliances and two water-bombing helicopters.

Victoria Police is investigating after air operations had to be temporarily halted due to the use of privately operated drones over the fire ground.

Firefighters arrived on scene to find a grass and scrub fire in partial bushland around one hectare in size.

Driver blew .286

■ Police have nabbed a drink driver almost six times over the limit in Diggers Rest

Officers initially detected a 40-yearold driver allegedly travelling at 115-kmh in a 100-km/hr zone along Coimadai Rd

The driver was pulled over and undertook a preliminary breath test, which returned a positive result.

An evidentiary breath test was then performed, which returned an alleged treading of .286.

The driver from Toolern Vale had his licence immediately suspended. His car was also impounded at a cost of $992.

WEDNESDAY,FEBRUARY4,2026

WOMAN CHARGED AFTER WHITTLESEA FATALITY

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a woman following a fatal collision in Whittlesea on Sunday, January 25.

It is alleged two vehicles collided while travelling along Grants Rd shortly before 5pm.

The male driver of one vehicle, an 84year-old Whittlesea man, was declared deceased at the scene.

The female driver of the second vehicle allegedly left the scene after getting picked up in another vehicle.

She was arrested a short time later nearby and was taken to hospital under police guard to be treated for injuries sustained during the collision.

The 31-year-old Wallan woman has since been charged with dangerous driving causing death, fail to stop and fail to render assistance.

She was to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court ● ● One of the vehicles in the Grants Rd fatal collision. Photo: 7News.

POLICE DETECT 5500 OFFENCES DURING BLITZ

■ More than 5500 offences were detected by Victoria Police during a four-day statewide road policing operation over the Australia Day long weekend.

Operation Amity saw police highly visible and targeting high-risk driving behaviour, with increased roadside alcohol and drug testing conducted over the four days.

One in every 420 drivers who were breath tested were caught over the legal alcohol limit, with 214 drink driving offences detected from 89,835 preliminary breath tests.

Notable drink driving detections included:

■ A 23-year-old probationary driver was intercepted by police in Maddingley and provided an alleged evidentiary breath test reading of 0.213 – four times the legal limit

■ A 31-year-old Mill Park man was intercepted by police in Mill Park and provided an alleged breath test reading of 0.232 – four times the legal limit

■ A 56-year-old Sunbury man was detected by police in Bulla allegedly travelling at 99-kmh in a 60-kmh zone and provided an alleged breath test reading of 0.122

– twice the legal limit

■ A 55-year-old Montrose woman was intercepted at a random testing site in Lilydale and provided an alleged evidentiary breath test of .201 – four times the legal limit

A further 154 drug driving

offences were detected from 2441 roadside drug tests – a strike rate of one in every 16 drivers testing positive to drugs.

The Sunday recorded the highest number of impaired driving detections, with 100 drink and drug drivers caught, while the Monday saw the most drivers caught speeding, with 662 speeding infringements issued.

The total 5518 offences detected during Operation Amity included:

Police Briefs

Mono no-no

■ A rider has had their motorcycle impounded after allegedly doing a ‘mono’ in front of police in West Melbourne Melbourne Highway Patrol officers allegedly spotted the motorcycle travelling at speed and only on its rear wheel along Footscray Rd

The rider ended up in wheelie big trouble when they were clocked at an alleged speed of 127-kmh in an 80 zone, more than 45-kmh over the limit.

Officers pulled over the motorcycle.

It is alleged the rider, a 42-year-old St Albans man, couldn’t provide any explanations for the circus show.

The antics will prove costly as the motorcycle was impounded for a period of 30 days and will cost the rider $999 to get the vehicle back.

The man was expected to be charged on summons for excessive speed and other driving offences.

Cran. West death

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Cranbourne West Emergency services responded to reports of a collision between a vehicle and a motorcycle on Evans Rd

CPR was performed on the yet-to-be formally identified rider, who died at the scene.

Three occupants of the vehicle, a man and two women, were given medical assistance at the scene.

Sexual assault

■ Transit Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance after a man sexually assaulted a woman on a train.

It is understood that the unknown man approached a woman on a city bound Cranbourne line train between Dandenong Station and Hughesdale Station about 6.05pm on Tuesday, January 13.

The man sexually assaulted the 18year-old victim before exiting the carriage.

He was last seen boarding a bus on Waverley Rd in Chadstone a short time later.

He is believed to be between 20 and 30 years old with tanned skin, black curly hair and brown eyes.

Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

■ 2288 speeding offences

■ 487 unregistered vehicles

■ 403 disqualified/suspended and unlicenced drivers

■ 363 disobey signs/signals

■ 223 mobile phone offences

■ 214 drink driving offences from 89,835 preliminary breath tests

■ 154 drug driving offences from 2441 roadside drug tests

■ 84 seatbelt offences; and

■ 81 vehicle impoundments

Nationwide

PERTH

Chronic homelessness

■ A new report has estimated the scale of housing and support needed to address chronic homelessness in Perth and Bunbury.

Supportive Housing Needs Assessment

WA was commissioned by the WA Alliance to End Homelessness to calculate the unmet need for Supportive Housing in Perth and Bunbury

The report found a current gap of 1279 Supportive Housing units across metropolitan Perth and Bunbury to 2030, including 1218 units in metropolitan Perth and 61 in Bunbury

The cost to build enough homes to meet this need and support tenants with wraparound services is approximately $517 million over the next five years. After the initial construction phase, it would cost $45 million per annum in operation and service costs. Perth Observer

CANBERRA

New book nods locals

■ A new children’s book celebrating Canberra’s most loved landmarks gives local families and businesses a meaningful way to support the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre while sharing a distinctly Canberran story with children.

Created by the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre, Cakeberra is a visually rich ABC picture book that pairs iconic Canberra locations with beautifully illustrated cakes, inviting young readers to explore Australia’s capital city while learning the alphabet. From much-loved local sights to quiet nods only Canberrans will recognise, the book is designed to spark curiosity, connection and pride in place. But Cakeberra is more than a keepsake for Canberra families. Every copy sold directly supports the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre’s essential services for parents and families experiencing perinatal mental health challenges.

“Behind every page is a purpose,” said Dr Yvonne Luxford, CEO of the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre Canberra Observer

TORTURE AND MURDER:

4th MAN CHARGED

■ Investigators from Brisbane City Criminal Investigation Branch and the Homicide Investigation Unit have charged a fourth man following investigations into the suspicious disappearance and alleged murder of 56-year-old Andrew Burow last year.

Police have previously charged three men in relation to Mr Burow’s alleged torture and murder.

Investigators charged a 44-year-old Lake Macdonald man with one count each of torture, deprivation of liberty and extortion.

He is expected to appear before Brisbane Magistrates’ Court on February 5.

Brisbane Sun

SYDNEY

Threatening calls: charges against man

■ A man is due in court charged after allegedly making threatening calls to Triple Zero (000). Three calls were received by operators between about 5.45pm and 6.10pm on Saturday, January 24.

Police will allege the caller made specific threats to kill or harm a particular section of the community. Inquiries traced the calls to public phones on George St , Sydney.

Within 10 minutes of the final call, officers attached to Sydney City Police Area Command arrested a 55-year-old man on Sussex St.

He was taken to Day Street Police Station where he was charged with four offences, three counts of make vexatious call to emergency service number, and one count of use carriage service to menace/harass/offend.

The man, from Rosebery, had bail refused, and was to appear via audio-visual link in Bail Division Court on Sunday, January 25.

Sydney Mail

VICTOR HARBOR

Serious assault

■ A man has been arrested after a serious

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assault at Victor Harbor. It will be alleged that about 12.40am on Friday, January 23, Police and emergency services were called to Ocean St after reports that a man had been found with serious injuries, after he was assaulted with a glass bottle at a nearby hotel.

The victim, a 20-year-old Whyalla man was taken to hospital in a serious condition.

Police called in extra resources including STAR Group officers to locate the suspect, who was found nearby in a unit in Port Elliot Road, Hayborough

The 29-year-old Brooklyn Park man was charged with attempted murder, property damage and assault. He was refused bail to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates’ Court.

Both men were known to each other. Adelaide Sun

LAUNCESTON

Woman on attempted murder charge

■ A woman has been charged with attempted murder following a serious wounding incident.

Police were called to the Launceston General Hospital after reports a child had sustained knife wounds.

A 33-year-old Ravenswood woman – who was known to the child – also presented with nonlife threatening injuries and has since been charged with attempted murder.

The woman is receiving medical treatment at the hospital where she remains in police custody. She was to appear in a bedside court.

The child was in a serious condition and was flown to Melbourne for medical treatment. Tasmanian Observer

GOLD COAST

Vic. woman nicked

■ A Victorian woman was scheduled to appear in Southport Magistrates’ Court, charged with allegedly breaching a secure restricted area at Gold Coast Airport. She allegedly attempted to enter a restricted airside area at a boarding gate, without a boarding pass.

Airline staff stopped the Mount Waverley woman from entering the restricted area, before she then allegedly stole food from a nearby store and left the scene.

Melbourne Observer

Across Australia

ALICE SPRINGS

Tourist numbers down

■ The annual number of visitors nights in Alice Springs has dropped by more than one-third since 2001.

Statistics obtained from the Australian Trade and Investment Commission show that 1.27 million nights were spent here by tourists in 2001, says the AliceSpringsNews. “In 2024 (the latest figures available) the number was 792,000. A peak was reached in 2018 with 1.6 million.”

Darwin Observer

PERTH

Illicit cash at airport

■ A ‘cash courier’ has been sentenced to four months’ imprisonment for possessing $33,300 of suspected illicit money, which was found in his luggage at Perth Airport

The money seized from the 40-year-old was among more than $3.2 million of suspected proceeds of crime that the Australian Federal Police seized from travellers at Perth Airport in 2025.

The man, a West Australian resident, was sentenced in the Perth Magistrates Court, after previously pleading guilty to possessing money reasonably suspected of being proceeds of crime and possessing methamphetamine.

The AFP charged him on Augus 12, after he was stopped at Perth Airport that morning ahead of a flight interstate.

The man had intended to travel to Sydney via Melbourne but while he was checking in for his flight, it came to the attention of airline staff he was in possession of a large amount of cash.

The staff reported the suspicious behaviour to the AFP. Subsequent AFP investigations located the cash and a small amount of methamphetamine in his bag.

The AFP charged the man after he was unable to provide sufficient evidence about the lawful source of the money.

The man was sentenced to three months’ imprisonment for possessing the suspected proceeds of crime and one month of imprisonment for possessing a controlled drug.

The magistrate ordered the sentences to be served cumulatively and directed the seized money to be forfeited to the Commonwealth under the ProceedsofCrimes Act.

Perth Observer MELBOURNE

42kg illicit drugs smuggle attempt

■ Three Victorian men were expected to appear in the NSW Local Court - Bail Division, after allegedly attempting to smuggle more than 42kg of illicit drugs concealed inside their luggage on board an international flight into Australia

Australian Border Force officers intercepted the men and conducted an X-ray examination of their luggage upon the group’s arrival from Thailand into Sydney Airport on Fridayafternoon, January 23.

ABF officers searched the suitcases and allegedly located dozens of individual shrink-wrapped bricks which contained a white substance.

ABF presumptive testing returned a positive result for methamphetamine and heroin, with an estimated weight of 34kg of heroin and 8kg of methamphetamine detected.

This amount of heroin, had it reached the Australian community, had an estimated street value of about $17 million, with the potential for about 170,000 streetlevel deals. The methamphetamine had an estimated street value of $7.4 million, with the potential for about 80,000 streetlevel deals.

The matter was referred to the AFP for investigation.

A Narre Warren man, 22, a Berwick man, 22, and a Wheelers Hill man, 22, were arrested by AFP officers at Sydney Airport, with the detected packages seized for further forensic testing.

The trio were each charged with:

■ One count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, contrary to section 307.1 of the CriminalCode (Cth); and

■ One count of possessing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, contrary to section 307.5(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).

Melbourne Observer

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Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.15.26.39.8

Avoid arguments with loved ones or opponents, as things may escalate quickly. A stimulating company will keep you entertained, and although the workload may increase, the outcomes will be rewarding.

LEO: (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 6.3.2.1

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.16.24.40.42

Tend to your home and personal surroundings it may be just the refresh you need. An unexpected visitor or situation may take you by surprise. Remember to allow yourself time to rest and reflect.

VIRGO: (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 4.6.5.2

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.15.26.30.33

Avoid disputes over finances. Friendships may offer more support than usual. Read all documents carefully before signing. Support will come from those around you, but don’t ignore any lingering health concerns.

LIBRA: (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.26.30.39.33

A time for celebration and embracing change. Shifts to your usual routine may take adjustment but will be beneficial in the long run. Gambling could bring luck. A Scorpio may play a meaningful role now.

SCORPIO: (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.42.39.8

You may be working harder than usual, so ensure you make time for rest. Shared interests with someone new could spark affection. Even if family matters feel complex, offer your support.

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8.6.2.1

Lotto Numbers: 8.12.29.34.40.11

A bold approach may cloud your judgement watch for the details. New friendships are possible if you're open to seeing things from a different perspective. Be sure to wrap up tasks that have been lingering.

CAPRICORN: (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1.3.6.9

Lotto Numbers: 1.13.19.5.44.8

Be diplomatic in your dealings, particularly with loved ones. You may be pushing yourself too hard, so rest where needed. Financial planning will benefit from professional advice during this time.

AQUARIUS: (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.5

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.29.7.44.1

An energy boost may lead you to overlook loved ones try to balance your time. Keep your expectations realistic in relationships. Focus on one task at a time to achieve success.

PISCES: (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.25.29.37.9

A good time to showcase your hobbies and ideas. Your efforts are likely to lead to success if directed wisely. A call or message may shake up your schedule in an exciting way.

JOHN’S POPS WERE TOPS

■ It was Christma s time and the once a year time for John Foreman’s Australian Pops Orchestra to perform a mix of their various Christmas and New Year themed recitals as part of their regular 10-day Holiday Concerts. Something they have specialised in for many years.

Whether it be at Hamer Hall , the Melbourne Recital Centre or elsewhere, the Australian Pops Orchestra brings together a 40-piece orchestra and well recognised Australian performers, for the concert season that culminates in their traditional New Year Concert , a regular recital for many years.

With two performances on the one day the Great Christmas Singalong at the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, Melbourne Recital Centre , the evening performance commenced with a rousing and provoking Christmas Overture arranged by Matt Amy, a Melbourne based composer, trombonist and musical director here in Australia and overseas.

Under the baton of versatile John Foreman, and guest Silvie Paladino who is no stranger to musical performance worldwide and with the Pops Orchestra they took us on a journey through 12 Carols, many traditional, where we were ‘encouraged’ to sing along.

Silvie with her incredible vocal range captured the very essence of the tone of each Carol whether it be joy, thanksgiving, awakening or reflection, none so powerful as Amazing Grace and Silent Night.

Throughout the renditions, support was given by the backing group of Jacinta Caurana, Michaela Jayde and a very emotive and physical performer in Anthony Monea

As well as the sing-along by the audience, Silvie randomly picked a number of audience members to come up to the stage and help her to perform The Twelve Day of Christmas.

Little did they know they were to sing solo, one of the 12 days of Christmas verse. Totally unrehearsed, several audience participants shone while the others did not disappoint.

In reflecting on the performance, the words of encouragement by Silvie at the beginning, in referencing the recent events at Bondi, by emphasising the power of music and song in bringing people together, none so important as now through the Christmas season by highlighting the true meaning celebrated by many throughout the world.

A truly celebratory performance Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Wind in the Willows

■ There were no willow trees and no wind, but the setting for the Australian Shakespeare Company's Wind in the Willows was as perfect as you could ever imagine.

With more than 100 audience members in attendance at our session, and the sun beating down just a little too fiercely, we were lucky to score a seat on a park bench situated on a gradual rise under the shade of a huge, generous melaleuca.

For this performance, please remember to bring your own picnic rug (or portable seating), sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and snacks.

The magnificent water lilies were in full bloom, and the ducks, coots, seagulls and sparrows acted as extras in this magical performance.

Kenneth Grahame's classic tale of life on the riverbank lends itself superbly to this spot in the Melbourne Botanical Gardens I was surprised that the children in the audience were well-versed in theatre etiquette and listened so intently to the dialogue.

They were all most engaged with the story and immensely enthralled by the characters, costumes and entertaining musicians.

As there was no amplification, it was occasionally hard to hear some of the characters speaking; however, the rollicking songs and exceptional singing were a highlight.

The children particularly enjoyed the many opportunities for audience participation, Slapstick humour and pantomimelike action.

The parents appreciated the local comic references, especially the clever parodies

of contemporary popular songs. We were all moved efficiently to a new area of the park for the second act, where we saw an impressive Toad Hall nestled under a massive Morton Bay Fig tree.

I congratulate the energetic cast for introducing young people to classic theatre and also many genres of music in one afternoon.

Review by Lucy Nicolson Piper’s

Playhouse

■ The launch of Piper’s Playhouse at Crown Casino brings a new daring, flamboyant venue to Melbourne with all the intimacy of cabaret in its purist form.

Hints of illusion beckoned as we were ushered into the rich red velvet nightclub and seated at a ringside table.

The mystery continued when a creature’s paw parted curtains serving our complimentary glass of Piper-Heidsiek champagne.

It is the crème de la crème of cabaret artistes. Maitre d’, megastar drag queen Jimi the Kween drives the momentum while flaunting lavish costumes.

This is cheeky, immersive theatre Parisian style. Miss Burlesque Australia, Diesel Darling astounds with her high kicking and splitting performances climaxing when she dips into the bubbles in an outsized champagne coupe in keeping with the champagne-flowing evening. Her act adds a sense of danger with her fearless flame throwing skills.

Award-winning illusionist Sebastian Rideaux alter ego Mr Marmalade’s magic holds the suspense with tricks unperceivable to the human eye involving the audience in his trickery.

From the minute we walk in, Becky Bubble mesmerises with captivating bubble-blowing techniques. Contortionist Soliana Ersie’s gliding flexibility leaves mouths gaping.

The performers are accompanied by the jazz band, Jake and Amy Trio whose musicality and energy are the perfect fit to draw the ensemble together and keep the pulse going.

When the two-hour performance draws to a close, the 260-seat Playhouse transforms into a free late-night piano bar.

Seated on a revolving stage at a baby grand – red, of course – a pianist plays taking requests from a QR card on your table. This slick night of intrigue and surprises continues.

Dates: Until March 28. Opens 6.30. Show 7pm-9pm with interval

Tickets: $55- $135. Complimentary glass champagne. Finger food available

Venue: Crown Casino, 8 Whiteman St Southbank.

Bookings: crownmelbourne.com.au

Nudity, adult content

Review by Sherryn Danaher

75 Years Ago

The Argus. Sat., Feb. 3, 1951.

Gravest strike

■ Australia is moving swiftly toward what threatens to be the grayest industrial crisis in her history.

Federal Government advisers fear that the decision to prosecute miners' leaders for ordering weekly one day stoppages may provoke a nation-wide general strike.

Electricity cuts

■ The onus of cutting down the consumption of electricity in Melbourne was thrown on the housewife last night by Mr. R. A. Hunt, chairman of the State Electricity Commission

She faces drastic restrictions — probably from next Wednesday — which will prevent her from burning more than one light or using more than one electrical appliance from 8a.m. to 10a.m. on weekdays.

If she is caught offending, her electricity supply may be cut off, and, if convicted of infringing the regulations, will be liable to a fine.

Mr. Hunt last night appealed to housewives to use vacuum cleaners and other electrical appliances at weekends, or on week days before 8 a.m. or after 4.30 p.m.

Hangings to stop?

■ Labor may stop hangings. State Labor will decide at a special meeting on Tuesday whether it should demand that the death sentence on the Carlton murderers should be commuted.

This was announced by Mr. Cain , Party leader, last night.

Mr. Cain said he had no doubt that some members would strongly oppose the executions, especially that of the woman, Jean Lee.

Drunken driver

Kilmore, Friday ■ William George Vienna, who today was fined £20 and had his driver's licence cancelled for drunken driving, asked the Bench for permission to drive his car home.

The Bench refused - but Inspector H. Richards promised that Vienna's car would be taken to his home.

In evidence, Vienna admitted that he had had four drinks dur ing the afternoon that police arrested him. The Argus

Songs of Bulbul

British-Indian dancer and choreographer Aakash Odedra. Photo: Kuldeep Goswami

■ British-Indian dancer and choreographer Aakash Odedra's award-winning solo show Songs of Bulbul will be presented at Arts Centre Melbourne from February 3-7.

Winner of the Best Show Award at Edinburgh International Festival , this solo dance piece brings together the art of Kathak dance and Sufi storytelling to create a dialogue between intense physicality and a spiritual journey.

Inspired by the ancient Sufi myth of a bulbul (or nightingale) held in captivity, the work uses the beauty of this songbird’s melody as a metaphor for the fleeting moments of dance, and life itself.

Bound by its constraints, the bird’s despair deepens as its final moments approach, and it sings more sweetly as its end draws near, delivering one last heartbreaking song before its soul departs.

From Persia to the Indian subcontinent, from freedom to captivity, Songs of the Bulbul explores the soul’s journey towards divine love and enlightenment.

In this extraordinary performance, Odedra poses a universal question - will we remain confined to the material world like the caged bird, or will we find freedom in the ultimate release?

Developed with choreographer Rani Khanam and composer Rushil Ranjan, Odedra combines Ranjan’s new score with the music, dance and poetry traditions of Sufism to create an ambitious work that is said to be both ferocious and contemplative.

Performance Season: February 3-7

Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne

Bookings: artscentremelbourne. com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Love, Lies and What I Wore

● ● ● ● Regina Miller, Candice Schell, Elise Moorhouse and Sarah Sell in Love, Loss and What I Wore.

Ryan

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents Love, Loss and What I Wore from February 13 - 28 at Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna

Written by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron from the book by Ilene Beckerman, Heidelberg Theatre Company's production is directed by Catherine Christensen Love, Loss, and What I Wore is described as 'a heartfelt celebration of women's lives told through the clothes that made them who they are.

From prom dresses to purses, this bittersweet play uses fashion as a thread to explore love, loss, heartbreak and resilience.

A cast of women share stories that are deeply personal yet universally related.

The multi-award-winning play debuted Off-Broadway in 2008

Performance Details: Feb.13, 18-21, 2528 at 8pm; Feb 14, 15, 21, 22 at 2pm. Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Bookings: htc.org.au Cheryl Threadgold

VALE PATSY KING

■ Australian born actress Patsy King , best remembered for her principal role as Governor Erica Davidson in the iconic television series Prisoner, passed away on Monday, January 19 after a short illness. She was 95 years old.

Patsy studied acting at Melbourne’s National Theatre and made her professional stage debut in 1951, playing the juvenile lead in various stage productions.

In the late 50s she progressed to support and lead roles with major theatre companies including Melbourne Theatre Company, St Martins and Playbox, co-starring with renowned actors such as Frank Thring and Barry Humphries

Proving her versatility as an actress, over the years she performed in everything from new Australian plays to the classics and from drama to farce.

Patsy’s theatrical highlights include playing Bubba in Ray Lawler’s Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, which toured Australia and New Zealand; Wendy in Peter Pan; a leading role in the Australian premiere of the musical HalfASixpence;FarewellBrisbaneLadies; and the role of Agnes in The Fourposter for which she received the 1963 Erik Award for Best Actress.

She also worked extensively in radio for the ABC and commercial stations in a variety of forms - plays, poetry readings, children’s shows and long running serials.

Patsy regularly appeared on television in guest and leading roles for ABC TV and Crawford Productions (Homicide, Division 4, Matlock Police, The Box) amongst others and was one of the original presenters on Play School

Other screen credits include Power Without Glory, The Sullivans and The Rivals

But it was as Governor Erica Davidson that she became known to fans around the world due to the international success of the cult classic television series Prisoner (known in UK and USA as Prisoner: Cell Block H and in Canada as Caged Women) in which she appeared in 351 episodes.

In 1989, British producer John Farrow invited Patsy to recreate her role of Erica in the West End stage production of Prisoner: Cell Block H. It played to sold out houses and then had a very successful tour around the UK

As an advocate for Australian content on our screens, Patsy was the lone female delegate amongst a group of actors from the TV: Make it Australian campaign, who travelled to Canberra in 1970 and was one of the first to successfully negotiate for local content quotas.

In 1959, Patsy married John Sumner, Melbourne Theatre Company founder and artistic director and they were married for eight years.

For many years she was an active Anglican volunteer at St John’s Toorak Church and St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne.

Apart from her career, one of the personal highlights of Patsy’s long life was being presented to the Queen at Buckingham Palace during a visit to the UK in 1953-54.

Always interested in nurturing new talent, Patsy was instrumental in establishing a Children’s Theatre at Monash University and was also a committee member and director with Melbourne Writers’ Theatre at Carlton’s Courthouse Theatre

She is survived by her sister Valerie Logada.

■ A funeral service was due to have been held at 11am yesterday (Tues., Feb. 3) at

● ● Music group Worlds Only. Photo:

Worlds Only

■ Curated by Liquid Architecture , music group Worlds Only and artists and technologists Junior Major, present Stable Confusion on February 13 from 7pm at Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall. Smashing sound and live visuals into an electrifying experience, Stable Confusion is said to push perception to its limits, where human intuition clashes with machine logic.

As Worlds Onl y performs, Junior Major generates real-time visuals through improvised AIconfounding code. Human input disrupts the machine’s attempts to interpret, classify and predict what it sees and hears.

Supported by Nick Klein and Liam Keenan , Stable Confusion is described as “a unique and playful showcase of experimental sound and art”.

Liquid Architecture Co-Director Rohan Rebeiro says: “These artists occupy a lively corner of creative music and visual practice. Their work is variable and at times counterpoint, offering the audience a panoramic lens to outsider music communities in Australia and abroad.”

Event Date: February 13

Times: 7pm Doors, 7.30pm Liam Keenan, 8.20pm Nick Klein, 9.20pm Worlds Only and Junior Major

Venue: Arts House – North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne

Tickets plus small transaction fee: $40 Standard $25 Reduced $15 BLAKTIX

Bookings: artshouse.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Drawing program

■ Artist and educator Belinda Wilson is inviting adults to explore the art of life drawing through Drawing Together, an eight-week program designed to foster creativity and social connection.

Commencing Wednesday, February 11, at Kingston Arts Centre, the program offers participants the opportunity to work from a professional live model in a relaxed studio environment.

All skill levels are welcome, with materials and guidance provided.

Wilson , who brings more than 20 years of experience as a practising visual artist and tertiary art educator, says life drawing is a powerful way to develop artistic skills and mindfulness.

Cost: $27 per session or $200 for the full eight-week program. Venue: Kingston Arts Centre, 979 Nepean Highway, Moorabbin. Bookings : www.kingstonarts.com.au. Life drawing will involve a nude figure.

Bard’s Best Bits

■ If “variety is the spice of life”, I was generously spiced for life with the Australian Shakespeare Company’s Shakespeare’s Best Bits in the Royal Botanic Gardens

In absolute eclectic chaos, A Midsummer’s Nights’ Dream’s Mechanicals led us in a hysterical romp with snippets of the Bard’s best known titles reinterpreted by the tradies themselves, in a bid to be selected to perform at a Duke’s wedding.

Overalled actors wandered on stage planning how to tell boss Peter Quince they had far better scripts than his Pyramus and Thisbe

After much mayhem, tantrums, pleadings, Quince agrees to look at all their offerings, starting with Macbeth. Tiny Halloween witches appeared above the set, which was then overwhelmed by tartan, sporrans and multi useful hobby horses.

The enthusiastic amateur thespians were glowing in their recognition of their sound and tech teams, busy bleeping out unacceptable words. But no erasing of many wildly received physical and verbal double entendres.

Flash moments of songs like I fell into a burning ring of fire and Achey breaky heart raised comedic moments at breakneck speed as we hurtled through Hamlet competing in MasterChef,KingLear in hip hop mode and a delightful use of two audience members who helped quickly ‘turn the page’ on those historical plays not so audience-friendly from the Wars of the Roses

The latter began with a side splitting speed date of the red and the white rose bunches destroying each other.

Final flurry was via Caesar’s Palace, Vegas , presenting a musical with costumes and Walks like an Egyptian depicting Anthony and Cleopatra’s doomed affair, complete with deadly inflatable snake.

A cast of six absolutely multi talented actors stole our hearts, despite the atrocious treatment of the great Bard.

But in the end they all agreed Quince’s Pyramus and Thisbe legend had the edge and would stay as the preferred play to offer for the Duke’s marriage.

Fabulous summer theatre fun in the Royal Botanic Gardens Review by Maggie Morrison

Bek’s belated award

■ Musical theatre performer Bek Chapman was thrilled to be nominated for Best Supporting Performer in a Female Presenting Role by the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria, for her role as Magda in Beaumaris Theatre's production of Ladies in Black

Unfortunately, Bek became ill and could not attend the special MTGV gala event held at Camberwell Grammar School . As it turned out, Bek Chapman was announced winner of the Best Supporting Performer in a Female Presenting Role award, so Ladies in Black director Debbie Keyt dashed up to the stage to accept the award on Bek's behalf.

In a thoughtful gesture, Debbie connected Bek with Facetime on her phone to ensure she instantly experienced the excitement in the theatre.

Bek has been performing at Beaumaris Theatr e for nearly two decades, so a couple of weeks after the Awards, the cast and crew from Ladies in Black arranged a special evening at the theatre for Bek to be officially presented with her award on stage. Debbie Keyt re-enacted reading through the nominations and then, when announced as winner, Bek was presented with her trophy by MTGV judge, Trevor Osburn. Congratulations, Bek Chapman Cheryl Threadgold

Bush Telegraph

Water in the pipeline

■ Vital water security for drought-affected farmers in western Victoria is underway on the Mininera Rural Pipeline Project.

Ripon MP Martha Haylett turned the first sod of the project on Friday (Jan. 30). The Project is an extension of the East Grampians Rural Pipeline Project – bringing relief during challenging periods of drought.

The investment will deliver piped water to Mininera and surrounding areas, with more than 80 km of mains pipelines to service 199 rural properties.

Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water is overseeing delivery of the project, with Mitchell Water constructing the East Grampians Rural Pipeline. The project is expected to build landholder and businesses confidence in reliable water access and allow existing agricultural enterprises to expand.

Wind farm action

■ Early works are beginning on the SEC Delburn Wind Farm near the Latrobe Valley Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for the State Electricity Commission , last week visited the site, where construction will begin in March ahead of operations starting in 2028.

The 33-turbine wind farm will have a generation capacity of up to 205 megawatts of renewable energy to the electricity grid, enough to power more than 130,000 homes with renewable power. The SEC will hold 100 per cent ownership of the project.

The SEC and its partners are inviting local businesses and suppliers to be part of the project, creating opportunities for Gippsland -based companies and workers to support the wind farm’s construction and long-term operations, strengthening the region’s local supply chain.

Night works on Epping-Kilmore Rd

■ The State Government will soon undertake overnight maintenance works on Epping–Kilmore Rd in Heathcote Junction to improve road conditions and safety.

Works will take place between Caladenia Ct and Theodore Ct, with crews operating at night to minimise disruption and keep workers safe.

Night works are expected to start Sunday (Feb. 8) and continue for approximately two weeks, weather permitting. Construction will run from 9pm to 5am. Dates may change due to weather conditions.

Residents and road users can expect:

■ Road closures with signed detours for local traffic and heavy vehicles via the Hume Fwy and Wallan–Whittlesea Rd

■ A reduced speed limit of 40-kmh during works

■ Traffic management on site to assist drivers

■ Temporary limits to business and property access at times, with access restored after work hours. Impacted properties will be contacted directly.

■ Some noise, dust and vibration near the work site, including the use of reverse beepers on machinery.

Aquaculture job

■ Charles Darwin Universit, Groote Aqua Aboriginal Corporation, and the CSIRO , aim to expand GAAC’s low trophic aquaculture program by developing production methods for the goldlined rabbitfish.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026

MAJOR UPGRADE AT WALLAN INTERCHANGE

■ Major works are now underway on the Watson Street Interchange Upgrade in Wallan. The milestone marks the start of construction to transform Watson St into a full diamond interchange, adding a new outbound exit ramp and inbound entry ramp to the Hume Fwy helping to improve access for locals, freight and visitors.

When complete, the upgraded interchange will improve safety, reduce congestion and support Wallan’s continued growth, strengthening connections between the Hume Fwy, the town centre and the Wallan East industrial precinct.

Following site investigations, community engagement and establishment of the site compound late last year, crews have begun ground preparation and construction of temporary pavement to keep traffic moving while the new interchange is built.

Works will include laying temporary pavement on the north side of Watson St between McCarthy Ct and Wallara Waters Blvd, installing temporary safety barriers and signage, and preparing the ground around the interchange for major construction.

Temporary pavement will allow traffic lanes to shift slightly north, maintaining one lane in each direction on Watson Street so motorists can continue to travel through the area while work progresses. These activities will largely take place at night to minimise disruption.

Once barriers are in place, crews will begin ground works including soil removal, establishment of environmental protection zones and vegetation management within the road reserve, supported by qualified arborists and ecologists.

The right-turn lane on the southbound Hume Fwy exit ramp to Watson St will be closed for up to two weeks, with motorists heading toward Wallan township able to make a U-turn at the Wallara Waters roundabout.

The Watson St Interchange Upgrade is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments and is scheduled for completion by late 2027.

Catherine King, Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, said: “This is a busy area for both locals and freight and once completed this major upgrade will make the intersection safer and less stressful for everyone passing through.”

Gabrielle Willaims, Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure and Minister for Public and Active Transport, said: “Starting major construction means we’re getting on with delivering a safer, more efficient interchange that keeps traffic moving while building for Wallan’s future.”

McEwen MHR Rob Mitchell said: “This is a major step forward for Wallan and is delivering what we promised our community.

“With construction now underway, this upgrade will make daily trips safer and easier for families, commuters and local business.”

Ros Spence, Kalkallo MLA, said: “With major works now underway, this upgrade will deliver smoother access to the Hume Freeway and better connections for residents, freight and visitors travelling through Wallan.”

Lauren Kathage, Yan Yean MLA, said: “It’s great to see construction begin on the new Watson St ramps, which will make it easier for our community to travel towards Melbourne and home again while supporting Wallan’s growth.”

Council to visit fireaffected properties

■ Murrindindi Shire says that Council officers will be attending fire-affected properties over the coming days and weeks to carry out detailed, on-site assessments of damage caused by the January bushfires.

“These assessments will provide a clearer and more accurate understanding of the bushfire impact to guide recovery efforts and connect property owners and community members with the support and services they need,” said a Shire representative.

“Impacted individuals will be able to use this information and guidance in any claims for insurance, government assistance, recovery work or rebuilding.

“Properties with damaged or destroyed homes, buildings or infrastructure will be the highest priority as part of a phased approach as roads are officially opened.

“Council’s assessment teams may include:

■ Building Surveyor

■ Environmental Health Officer

■ Arborist

■ Personal Support Officer

■ Administration Officer

“All staff will have identification with them, and where possible, a call to the property owner or occupant will be made prior to attending on site.

“If the owner has not been able to be contacted, a card will be left advising how to contact Council to discuss the outcomes of the visit.

“Teams include staff from Murrindindi Shire Council as well as officers from partner councils.

During a visit, the team can provide information and guidance on:

■ Building safety and structural damage

■ Wastewater and drinking water systems

■ Hazardous materials (including asbestos, chemicals, fuel or gas)

■ Dangerous or fire-affected trees

■ Personal and wellbeing support

■ Available recovery services and grants

Officers will also take photographs and collect information to assist with recovery planning and support services.

Whiparound

Golf Club results

■ Round 5 of the Yea Golf Club Gender Challenge saw 35 members contest a Stableford event.

Winner of the day was Chris Keogh (29) with 40 points, followed by Martin Lowe (15) with 38, and Alan Pell (13) on 37 points (CB).

However, as there were more than 10 additional men than women playing, these three scores were not counted towards the Gender Challenge.

Gender points were awarded as follows: Di Holdsworth ( 32) – 37 pts (CB) – 25 points; Zach Pell (13) – 37 pts (CB) – 20 points; Vicki Butler (44) – 36 pts –15 points; Steve Rumney (23) – 35 pts (CB) – 10 points; Miranda Gill (17) – 35 pts – 5 points.

The team average was won by the Ladies, 32 to 31, earning 10 points.

Day score: Ladies 55 def Men 30 Progressive total: Ladies 300 – Men 125

NTP (14th): Alan Pell

Club Award: Phil Armstrong ★ Round 6 - Gender Challenge

Round 6 saw 31 players, with the men having 7 more players, resulting in the top two men’s scores not counting towards Gender points.

Winner of the Stroke and Putting event was Tom White (17) with an exceptional nett 65.

Second on CB was Vicki Clements (23) with nett 70, from Phil Armstrong (19) in third.

Fourth was Meryl Connell (24) with 71 nett (CB) from Christine Simmons (23), with Rob Gill (33) next best.

Gender points: Vicki Clements – 25, Meryl Connell – 20, Christine Simmons – 15, Rob Gill – 10, Jo Clayton – 5

The team average was again won by the Ladies, earning 10 points.

Day score: Ladies 75 – Men 10 Progressive total: Ladies 375 – Men 135 ★

Murrindindi Masters - Marysville

A strong contingent of 35 Yea players represented the club at the Marysville Masters on Saturday (Jan. 31).

The weather began mildly but by midday temperatures were well over 30°C, making for hot and humid playing conditions.

Congratulations to Greg Clements, who won the Men’s Mini Masters under tough conditions. Greg also won the BGrade Veterans Competition last Thursday (Jan. 29) at Seymour

Other excellent results included:

■ Andrew Bohn – Runner-up A Grade

■ Anthony La Grutta – Winner B Grade

■ Russell Wealands – Runner-up C Grade

■ Rob O’Halloran won first prize in the raffle, with many other Yea players also successful in the draws.

Well done to all Yea players whose efforts contributed to Yea’s team average for the Normie Shield (results yet to be calculated).

Written on Stone

■ What would you expect to see on a gravestone? Perhaps a heartfelt message of love for the deceased, along with the usual dates and names.

Queensland author Julie Holland has a different take on gravestones, having discovered the American tradition of gravestone recipes, and that tradition takes centre stage in her latest novel, Written On Stone.

Lucy Ingram is a food and lifestyle journalist who has spent three years navigating the grief of losing her beloved husband, Charlie

Due to her grief, her enthusiasm for writing about haute cuisine is as flat as an undercooked souffle so she seeks solace in a unique assignment blending community cooking with heartfelt remembrance.

Lucy discovers the poignant tradition of recipes etched on gravestones and becomes privy to not only the stories of those who have passed but also their connection to those still living.

But all is not smooth going, as to fulfil a promise made to Charlie, Lucy must also confront her formidable mother-in-law and the Ingram family secrets.

Then a charming local publican enters her life and middle-aged Lucy faces an unexpected dilemma - will she let love simmer once more, or will the thought of loving again serve as a stubborn barrier?

Set on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Written on Stone is a heady mixture of good cooking and the promise of second chances.

The eternal themes of loss and renewal, mature romance and second chances, a sense of place, community, cooking and food are combined to entrance any reader looking for a feel-good story that is a little quirky.

And there is the bonus of lots of gravestone recipes from the author’s friends for the reader to try, as Julie Holland asks if a woman’s quest for community cooking can lead beyond the grave to happiness and love.

Julie Houghton

MUMA opening

■ The opening of Knowing Otherwise, a major new group exhibition exploring how artists are enacting ancestral, spiritual and embodied forms of knowledge amid eroding trust in government and dominant Western frameworks, will take place on Saturday (Feb. 7) at MUMA.

Opening remarks will be made by Dr Emma Quilty , anthropologist and author of Witch Power: Hexing the Patriarchy with Feminist Magic, and Research Fellow at the Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Monash University

2.30pm — Artist and curator talks in the gallery with Paola Balla, Carla Cescon and Clare Milledge

3pm — Official opening with a performance by Karina Utomo, and critical tasseography coffee readings by Tina Stefanou Artists: Paola Balla (Wemba Wemba, Gunditjmara), Carla Cescon, Yin-Ju Chen, Mel Deerson, David Egan, Gail Mabo (Meriam), Naminapu MaymuruWhite (Ma?galili), Clare Milledge, Tracy Moffatt, Vali Myers, Rosaleen Norton, Leyla Stevens, Heather B. Swann, Suzanne Treister, Karina Utomo

LIVING IN THE PRESENCE

■ A Christmas Presence is a show that I would one hundred percent see again.

It was a great show that captured all of the events that happened to make Christmas 'Christmas'. It was an enjoyable script that told the story really well and was executed brilliantly by the cast. You could clearly tell this show was worked on a lot and was not some scrappy production.

Instead you saw a brilliantly executed show that was informative and fun, slipping a few jokes and funny bits in here and there.

Another great part about the show is that there is a lot of audience participation which I really liked, because unlike most productions, you felt like you were actually a part of the story and not just watching it unfold.

Also it is a really relatable show, and in the very first scene you see two kids fighting over who gets to put the angel on the tree, and eventually after a lot of fighting they drop it and it smashes - just like a normal household.

Personally I always look for if the characters stay in character when they are walking off or just in the background of the stage, and well for this show, I am happy to report that all the actors did, and I feel like that added a lot to the show, making it feel a lot more like they were their characters and not just acting.

A Christmas Presence was written and directed by Elizabeth Semmel and presented as a family show at the Mills Street Theatre, Cheltenham

Review by Mack Klesman (12 years old)

Teddy Bear’s Picnic

■ During early summer there was an air of mystery hanging over the St Kilda Botanical Gardens as parents and little ones were challenged with solving who had kidnapped Bobby the Bear.

The Melbourne Shakespeare Company brought the Annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic to the historic gardens with a talented cast of five each playing various characters, as we visited many sites each giving us a clue as to who might have been responsible for the kidnapping.

Starting with all assembled on picnic rugs, wide-eyed little ones were told of the kidnapping, interspersed with song, vocal and dance participation, all led admirably by Tref Gare as Special Agent Honeycomb and Isabelle Davis as Ms Place who had us follow them through the garden paths and surprisingly meeting some quirky woodland characters.

Well placed posters “Have you seen Bobby the Bear?” with an Evidence Board of photos of likely suspects shown to us by Special Agent Honeycomb only heightened the mystery.

We were kept moving through the gardens by Jessica David as Sam, ensuring we

More Auditions

■ The Basin Theatre Group: You’re Only Young Twice, February 15 from 7.30pmand February 16 from 7.30pm at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Bob Bramble. Audition bookings and enquiries: bobbramble 2013@gmail.com

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Other Place (by Sharr White) February 15 at 1.00pm; Callbacks if required: February 16 from 7.00pm at Unit 8, 417-419 Warrigal Rd., Cheltenham: Director: Barry O’Neill. Audition enquiries/ scripts/character profiles: mordialloc theatre.com.au/auditions-the-otherplace/

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

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

Cheryl Threadgold

Pirates of Penzance

■ Victorian Opera presents Gilbert and Sullivan's famous comic operetta The Pirates of Penzance until February 6 at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda

Ben Mingay (the Pirate King) and Antoinette Halloran (the long-suffering Ruth) lead the high-seas jinks, joined by theatre veteran Richard Piper as the Major General, and rising stars Nicholas Jones and Nina Korbe as Frederic and Mabel, and Christopher Hillier as the Sergeant of Police.

The cast is rounded out by a talented ensemble of emerging artists and features several current and former Victorian Opera scholarship recipients.

This includes 2026 Opera Prize winners Rachael Joyce, Bailey Montgomerie and Alessia Pintabona , as well as past winners Douglas Kelly and Syrah Torii

The production is directed by Stuart Maunder and conducted by James Pratt . On the production, Maunder notes: “There is no theatrical phenomenon with more staying power than Gilbert and Sullivan productions. For generations of Australians , their first G and S experience in a theatre is iconic.”

Performance Details: Until February 6. Venue: Palais Theatre, St Kilda. Bookings: victorianopera.com.au

didn’t stray, keeping us as a group between the sites that held clues, meeting Jacob Kuek as The Tree of Wilderness and soon after an aging Granny played confusingly by Daniel Hillman

Still no closer to finding Bobby , we came upon a large honeypot, the property of Bobby the Bear , but who showed up from behind the honeypot, Sir Nibbles Nuttington a puppet squirrel spoken by Daniel Hillman

A very lifelike and absorbing performance, well timed and executed, finishing with the little ones exploring the area to find as many acorns as possible, much to the delight of Sir Nibbles Nuttington

There was a happy ending and all the Cast and Creatives from Melbourne Shakespeare Company are to be applauded for such a niche performance directed so well, to those who one day may well strut the stage in a Shakespearian work. Maybe in a couple of decades?

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

City Gallery

■ City Gallery announces On The Street WhereILive:VivaGibb’sportraitofNorth and West Melbourne, a landmark exhibition celebrating the work of Melbourne artist and social documentary photographer Viva Jillian Gibb (1945–2017).

Opening March 12, this exhibition, curated by Savannah Smith of the City of Melbourne’s Art and Heritage Collection team, marks the largest presentation of Gibb’s work in more than 30 years.

The exhibition features never before seen material, including a selection of the artist’s photo albums, and will be accompanied by an illustrated catalogue featuring contributions by Ruth Maddison and Helen Garner

In 2025, the Melbourne Art Trust received a significant donation: more than 200 black-and-white silver gelatin prints by Viva Gibb , generously gifted by the artist’s children, Sybil Gibb and Rupert Duffy.

Taken between the mid-1970s and early 1990s, these photographs create a vivid, compassionate portrait of life in North and West Melbourne at a moment of profound social and urban transformation.

Shows

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre: The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays (by Ken Ludwig) February 12 – 28 at Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Lucia Morris. Bookings: 9735 1777 lilydaleatc.com

■ PEP Productions: Ride the Cyclone, February 13 – 21 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Director: Daniel Kim; Musical Director: Isaac Stott; Choreographer: Maya Lee. Bookings: trybooking.com/ DEZRE

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Browning Version/South Downs (by Terrence Rattigan and David Hare) February 11 – 28 at Williamstown Little Theatre, 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Two plays presented as a double bill. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Bookings: wlt.org.au

■ Brighton Theatre Company: Baby (by Sybille Pearson, based on a story developed with Susan Yankowitz, music by David Shire, and lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr.) February 13 – 28 at Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Cnr Carpenter and Wilson Sts., Brighton. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: 0493 069 479 www.brightontheatre.com.au

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Love, Loss and What I Wore (By Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron, based on the book by Ilene Beckerman) February 13 – 28 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Catherine Christensen. Bookings: www.htc.org.au Phone: 9457 4117.

■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Tin Woman (by Sean Grennan) February 13 – 28 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Brett Turner-Valenta. Bookings: Phone 1300 131 552, or online malverntheatre.com.au/book-tickets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auditions

■ Hills Act Theatre Company: The Monkey Kings Defiance (Written and directed by Josh Young), February 7 and 8 12pm-2pm at the Lions Hall, 9 Lilydale Rd., Healesville. Audition bookings and further details: hatcjosh@gmail.com

■ The Basin Theatre Group: The Full Monty (by Simon Beaufoy) February 7 at 10am and February 11 at 7pm The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Julie Cunningham. Audition bookings: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1521106 or contact juliehowdramatic@gmail.com

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

Cheryl Threadgold

Local Theatre

Sugar

Gambino.

■ A Midsumma Festival and Arts Centre presentation, the one-person cabaret-style show Sugar was a wonderful celebration of all things LGBTQIA+ due mainly to the scintillating performance of Tomas Kantor.

The play is the story of a sugar baby, a younger person seeking a transactional relationship with a sugar daddy, an older wealthier individual. While starting off well, things unfortunately go awry as both parties find they have different conflicting expectations.

The show was written by Ro Bright and used a great variety of theatrical techniques including song, audience interaction and direct addresses to the audience.

Quite demanding of a performer, the show also required the one actor, in this case Kantor , to play three key roles; those of the sugar baby, the sugar daddy and, last but not least, themselves as a commentator on the action.

Fortunately the show found a perfect fit in Kantor who, in an acting tour de force , carried the night. They are a wonderful very talented performer whose cheeky and charming stage persona was critical to the show’s success.

They perform the three roles with passion and vitality. They also successfully pulled off the delineation of and switching between roles, making it look disarmingly simple.

This would not have been possible without the excellent direction of Kitan Petkovski. Keeping the pace of the show fast and upbeat, Petkovski nevertheless also found opportunities for moments of quiet reflection on the drama unfolding as the sugar baby and daddy go their separate ways.

Sensibly, Petkovski gives Kantor room to shine and strikes a good balance between song and theatre; in this they were more than ably assisted by musical director and arranger Rachel Lewindon

The characterisations did sometimes border on cliche and the commentary fell into an earnest didacticism. Regardless, it never failed to engage its audience.

A marvellous show with a marvellous performer, Sugar was an outstanding contribution to this year's Midsumma Festival

Review by Peter Murphy

Skank Sinatra

■ Multi-award winning cabaret star Skank Sinatra (Jens Radda) returns to Melbourne on February 6 and 7 to debut a new show - Skank Sinatra: The Name on Everybody's Lips - being presented at Chapel Off Chapel.

Broadway’s greatest hits will be presented in a glittering high-camp spectacular as award-winning cabaret diva Skank Sinatra shimmies into the spotlight with powerhouse vocals, biting comedy, and lashings of showgirl charm.

Directed by Carly Fisher, this hour of showstopping entertainment promises a great night out with a cheeky twist on the musical theatre earworms familiar to audiences.

Performance Season: February 6 and 7. Venue: Chapel off Chapel. Bookings: chapeloffchapel.com.au/show/skanksinatra-the-name-on-everybodys-lips/ Cheryl Threadgold

AUSTRALIAN OPEN

■ Playwright Angus Cameron examines gender and societal expectations around relationships in a manner that is humorous, disarming but unerringly accurate.

A somewhat narcissistic tennis ace, Lucas (Eddie Orton) is in a relationship with a less secure Felix (Sebastian Li)

They are contemplating an open marriage to the chagrin of Felix’s parents, the deferential Peter (Alec Gilbert) and successful executive Belinda (Jane Montgomery Griffiths ) who are questioning their own union and life choices.

Behind the scenes is the manipulative daughter Annabelle (Melissa Kahraman) , an experimental physicist, whose curiosity about colliding atoms plays out domestically.

The genius of Australian Open lies in Cameron’s inversion of expectation where Felix wants his parent’s stability while advocating for recognition of diversity and altered social norms in his own. The question of expectation becomes more universal, hence the physicist, and is influenced by such mundane things as sibling rivalry and the passage of time.

The roles are deliberately stereotypical and played with delightful indulgence. Peter and Belinda are the wine drinking Toorak set. Lucas is vain, Felix sheltered and Annabelle calculating.

They are played to great effect by the cast and, while not naturalistic, they work brilliantly in not just accentuating the humour but allowing for the issues and concerns about sexual identity to be explored more fully. Cameron has provided multiple opportunities for word play which the cast revel in.

Director Riley Spadaro has used the open set ( Harry Gill ) effectively. Resembling a tennis court, the rostrum at varying levels allow couples and groupings as required with the lighting ( Sidney Younger) providing the necessary change of focus.

The ceiling of mirror balls even provides a suggestion of the astronomical.

The balance of humour and insight, the playfulness regarding questions of gender and societal mores, and an understanding of human fragility makes this play and the current production the perfect vehicle to examine societal behaviour.

Presented at Theatre Works

Review by David McLean

Wizard of Oz

■ PLOS Musical Productions once again delighted audiences of mixed ages with their holiday production The Wizard of Oz at the Frankston Arts Centre.

Malcom Huddle’s superb orchestra instantly transported us into the magical world, beautifully rendering the familiar tunes.

Director Michael Mitchell remained faithful to the core message of the show in his interpretation, but writes in the program of exploring the narrative ‘through a lens that’s bold … a celebration of the weird and wonderful.’

This creates thought-provoking, fun theatre for adults, but is perhaps questionable for children seeing the classic musical for the first time.

Mitchell’s creative contribution also included innovative choreography, scenic design and some stunning costumes in collaboration with Co-Costume Designer, Brett Wingfield

Clever and impressive technological effects were showcased during Dorothy and Toto’s adventures, enhanced by Daniel Jow’s lighting design. Sound design was by Marcello Lo Ricco and Steve Cooke

The terrific cast exuded the show’s traditional heart and soul, led by Lana Hutchinson in a charming portrayal of Dorothy , utilising her beautiful singing voice.

Ethan Hooper (Tinman), Dean Robinson (Scarecrow) and Owen James (Lion) were personable and entertaining.

Some fine vocals were enjoyed from Ethan Hooper and Dean Robinson and comedy from Owen James.

●

Jane Montgomery Griffiths and Alec Gilbert in Australian Open.

Photo: Sarah Clarke.

Bravo to Peter Jenkins (Toto) who sustained character and audience connection throughout the show, from the remotest stage areas.

The talented ensemble performed some great routines, with a standout performance from Sarah Cossey Glaubert . Congratulations to PLOS Musical Productions on another quality holiday show.

In July/August, PLOS Musical Productions presents The Jersey Boys: The Story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons at the Frankston Arts Centre www.plos.asn.au 9784 1060.

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Peter Pan:

A Twinkle In Time

■ The most famous pre-teen boy in history, “apart from Macauley Culkin and not including the 30-somethings masquerading as children from Stranger Things”, is suffering from an existential crisis.

Fresh off a sold-out season of #Swifttok at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Peter Pan: A Twinkle in Time is a new, equally silly one-man comedy act by Dean Robinson.

Peter Pan , the boy who won’t grow up, accidentally grew up.

Flashing green Lycra leggings, a green crushed velvet tunic, and Crocs, Peter Pan has left Neverland with a dream and ended up on the mean streets of St Kilda, well, the gentrified streets of middle-class Australia

What’s making him all angsty?

He’s losing his Twink-ness.

A Twink is a young, slim, boyish-looking gay male, youthful and carefree, think Timotheé Chalamet or Troye Sivan

Twink Death means losing that youthful aesthetic, a kind of social death, hence the existential dread over the “lost boy” of his youth.

He needs to get back into the Twink swing, and binge-watching Emily in Paris is the “perfect amount of stupid to get you in the Twink mood”.

A little rough to start, the show soon picks up.

Robinson delivers comedy at a fast, staccato pace. Blink, and you’ll miss them.

Costume changes and songs add to the silliness.

Audience members are plucked from relative obscurity to serve as brief celebrities under the spotlight during a game show naming gay icons.

Finally, the eternal boy realises that he belongs in the world of pirates, fairies, and lost boys with his bestie, Tinker Bell , in Neverland . The show ends with a rendition of the Cher anthem for all aging Twinks, If I Could Turn Back Time.

Review by Kathryn Keeble

There’s no fuss in paying for your Local Paper Classified Ad over the phone. We accept payments by Visa, Mastercard and American Express. No surcharges. Call 9489 2222.

Legends in Concert

■ Legends in Concert, presented by The Harbour Agency , has returned to The Palms at Crown Casino in Southbank for its eighth Melbourne season.

Legends’ popularity is evident through its 1983 Las Vegas debut to being revered as the longest-running Vegas show. Melbourne annually welcomes Legends back to The Palms which provides the perfect concert/ cabaret Las Vegas style venue.

This is impressionist musical entertainment at its best. From the Legends ' live band of bass, drum and keyboard lead by the pre-eminent electric guitarist/musical director George Safire to individual singer/entertainers backed by the company’s professional, sassy dancers, plus two melodic female vocalists, we see world-class performances. Each artist’s interpretation breathes life into the genius of legendary superstars.

The 2025 concert sees Elizabeth Burnett as a spirited, polished Taylor Swift contrasted to Stacey Witton Summers’ spike-heeled, gritty 80’s rock star Pat Benatar.

Karen Hester gives a decisive staging of Dolly Parton personified in her voice, costume and physique with pure Dolly accent thrown in.

Trisha McCluney convinces that the real Cher is performing with her facial and body countenance and vocal renditions of the star over decades. She showcases Cher inviting a male audience member to sing with her onstage.

We see a consummate performance in Josh Smith’s crooning voice, easy stage movements and gestures as Michael Buble.

Jazmine’s forceful vocal performance is a credible Whitney Houston . The night naturally rises to a crescendo when Bill Cherry as the King of Rock, Elvis , has the persona down to a tee with deep voice, pure white tight bejewelled pants suit and leg trembles.

This night of dazzling spectacle is highlighted by the dancers’ myriad of glitzy costume changes, brilliant hightech lighting effects on giant video screens and surround sound.

Review by Sherryn Danaher

Blackpill: Redux

■ A wonderful piece of ensemble theatre, the revival of last year’s production of Blackpill: Redux was a high octane ambitious show which ultimately disappointed due to poor production values and stage craft.

A young man Eli (played by Oliver Tapp ) is fired from his job due to inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague he met on a dating app. Upset and confused by this and his lack of success with women romantically, he turns to the internet for advice. Thus begins a descent into a dark online underworld of misogynistic incels, the manosphere.

Written by Chris Patrick Hansen, the play had a classic three act structure. However, that was the only nod given to theatre tradition as the language and style of the piece was contemporary and street-wise.

The online world that Eli falls prey to was graphically and disturbingly portrayed through an industrial soundscape complemented with a vigorous choreography.

■ Marina Prior, David Hobson, Silvie Paladino and Michael Cormick will perform in Ovation at Hamer Hall on Sunday, March 8.

Courtney Smyth commanded the stage as the Wicked Witch , and Elise Stevens was in sweet contrast as Glinda the Good Witch Nice work from Mark Curran as the Emerald City Guard , and Cameron Sweatman

nailed portraying the authoritarian/cowardly Wizard

An ensemble of 12 young performers told the story. Performing in different roles, depicting the real or online world, they acted with admirable gusto. In particular, Tapp’s central role was a strong performance which held the story together. Still, it was frustrating when, too often, conversations between characters could not be heard due to either poor voice projection or voices being swamped by the soundscape. Responsibility for this failing rests in part with Hansen who directed as well as wrote the play. There were other production problems too such as the amplified distorted voices of actors wearing masks being difficult to understand. Even so, the use of masks was a potent dramatic device as was the dynamic choreography created by movement director Sian Quinn Dowler , ably assisted by dance captain Natasha Bowers Overall then, Blackpill: Redux was quite a mixed bag: some great performances and atmospherics the power of which, unfortunately, was undercut by staging problems and difficulties that, to be honest, should not exist in a professional production.

Review by Peter Murphy

★The Abbotsford Convent is inviting people to find refuge from the heat in their grounds, with a newly created buzzing meadow reaching full bloom. This botanical sea of flowers reaches full bloom in early February, with a display of 20 species of flowers including poppies, paper daisies and cornflowers.

★After an extraordinary 41 years at the South Melbourne Market , it is saying goodbye to Rod - the beloved Merchant of Fairness - whose bookstall became a treasured home for stories, conversations and community.

★Cyrano de Bergerac will be featured from February 11-28, as Artefact Theatre Company brings Martin Crimp’s reimagining of the classic Edmond Rostand tale to fortyfivedownstairs , directed by Matthew Cox

★Thunderstruck: A Classic Rock Tribute will be presented at Collingwood Town Hall, from 7pm this Friday (Feb. 6). It is a one-night concert by violinist Chris Vuk ( Blue Violin), who is presenting new arrangements of classic rock songs through solo violin, live looping, and atmospheric staging.

★Emilia Galatis Projects, a Whadjuk Boodja/Perthbased gallery dedicated to advancing Western Australian First Nations artists, will present the first Melbourne solo exhibition by Corban Clause Williams at Melbourne Art Fair from February 19-22.

★A celebration of the legendary hits of Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole is being held at 8.30pm on Saturday, February 14 at Ella’s Music Club at Royal Brighton Yacht Club, 253 Esplanade, Brighton. Line- up: Sarah Cvocals, Paul Tuisant - vocals, Joe Ruberto - keys, Rob Severini - bass, and Dean Cooper - drums

★The fourth BMW Opera for All concert will be at Fed Square from 6.30pm-8pm on saturday, March 14. The 2026 performance will feature an all-new line-up of four acclaimed opera singers. The evening will be hosted by Greta Bradman. First Nations opera singer ShauntaiAbdul-Rahman will perform a special Welcome to Country.

★The Melbourne Cinematheque returns from today (Wed., Feb. 4) with its annual calendar of screenings at ACMI, Fed Square , covering major artists of world cinema alongside under-seen local films, and featuring a mix of new digital restorations and rare original film prints. You Go Never Go Fast Enough is the opening show.

★ABC Radio stations will not be heard on ARN’s iHeart Radio App, as of today (Wed., Feb. 4).

★ The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra begins its 120th anniversary celebration in 2026 by launching a ticketing initiative, First Look Seats, which offers $20 seats for MSO newcomers at every MSO concert, all year.

★ The Jane Barnes Band will play Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo, on Wednesday, April 8. Special guests will be Jimmy Barnes and Mahalia Barnes

★ NotFair 2026, Lust for Life, the eighth iteration of the biennial exhibition, will be held February 14-23, concurrently with the Melbourne Art Fair , at a multi-spaced former office complex at 83 High St, Prahran.

★ The University of Melbourne’s Potter Museum of Art will present a new exhibition curated by internationally renowned curator Chus Martínez titled A Velvet Ant, A Flower and a Bird, from February 9-June 6.

★The opening of The Banks are Burning will be held from 5pm-7pm on Thursday (Feb. 5) at Artbank Melbourne, 18-24 Down St, Collingwood

★Bach Akademie Australia is launching its 2026 season with a performance of Bach’s complete Motets, opening at St John’s, Southgate, tomorrow (Thu., Feb. 5).

★Port Fairy Folk Festival takes place over the Labour Day long weekend, March 6-9. General Tickets are now available at portfairyfolkfestival.com

★ Applications are now open for Monash University’s inaugural Constructive Institute Asia Pacific Hub Fellowship to support senior news professionals in reimagining the future of journalism. Applicants can apply via the Hub website by February 24.

★ National Serviceman’s Day sees those called up between the years of 19511972, assembling in the forecourt on the Shrine of Rembrance at 11.45am on Sunday, February 15, to march off at 12 Noon. There will be a flyover by the RAAF Museum at Point Cook at 12. 15pm, and then into the Shrine for a guest speaker Dave Sabben who was the OC of 12 Platoon D Company 6RAR at the battle of Long Tan on August 18, 1966. Medals can be worn: your own to the left side, and relations on the right side. Inquirie: Peter Kemp, 427 859 549. Cato

The Arcadians Rourke’s Reviews

Welcome to 2026

■ Here we are, back for 2026, and the year seems to be chaotic and eventful already. Hopefully everyone is thinking positively and pushing ahead, shaping this year into something great.

● ● ●

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Flashback from 2010: Ron Pidcock (Father Time) with Catherine Northey (Sombra), Vanessa Petrie (Chrysaea) and cast in a GSOV production of The Arcadians.

Brian Taylor.

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV) presents The Arcadians - outdoors from February 28 to March 9 at The Know, 4 Clarkmont Rd, Sassafras, and indoors at The Round Studio in Nunawading from March 13-15.

Directed by Robert Ray and Naomi Tooby , a live quartet will accompany the cast with music specially re-scored by MD Geoffrey Urquhart , and costumes will include new gowns from Helen Ebsworthy.

The story tells of a London restaurateur crash landing his plane in Arcadia and being transformed from a wicked man to a guileless youth by the innocent rural idyll of the locals. Horrified by the idea of city life, the magical Arcadians travel to London to convert the miserable city-dwellers.

Premiering in 1909, The Arcadians ran for more than two years in London’s Westend . In 2010, GSOV commissioned a new book from Australian playwright, Melvyn Morrow , whose most recent hits include Shoutand Dusty–TheOriginalPopDiva.

Director Robert Ray’s production premiered in Melbourne and toured to the UK, where it was hailed the hit of The International G and S Festival for its stunning settings, costumes, movement and performances.

Performance Details: Feb 28, March 1, 7, 8, 9 at 2pm, outdoors at The Knowe, 4 Clarkmont Rd., Sassafras.

Tickets for The Arcadians at The Round - Studio can be purchased as part of a subscription. Buy two or three shows in the 2026 Season for 15% off.

For full subscriptions details, go here:gsov.org.au/subscriptions/

To book a subscription, go to trybooking.com/DEXEU

Cheryl Threadgold

Theatre Works 2026

■ After something of an annus mirabilis in 2025, when the highest box office results were achieved in Theatre Works’ 45-year history, the company finished the year by launching its 2026 season.

However, next year will be undoubtedly challenging as its powerhouse executive director/creative producer Dianne Toulsen departs in July.

The launch, held at the company’s flagship venue on Acland St in St Kilda , introduced no less than 49 different productions it will offer in 2026 under the now familiar four programming streams: by Theatre Works (produced totally in-house); with Theatre Works (co-produced with independent artists or companies); fresh works (productions that could potentially become in-house); and festival works (where the company acts as a south-side hub for events such as midsumma or the fringe festival).

It is a bold and ambitious program but nothing less has come to be expected of Theatre Works under the inspired direction of Toulsen and her dedicated team of Adam Gardner, Jade Hibbert, Chris Hansen, River Stevens, Belle Hansen , Joshua Fernandez and Anne Henderson.

It spoke volumes about the ethos of the company that most of the program was presented by members of this team as well as some of the playwrights featured next year.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Year, sharing time with loved ones.

Cinema over the break has been fascinating, and a sign that 2026 will bring many fantastic viewing experiences.

Here’s what I saw over the break.

Eternity (M). The romantic comedy genre has become something laughable and risible in recent decades, but this bucks the trend, providing a charming, intelligent blend of the films Defending Your Life (1991) and After Life (1998).

Prime Minister (M). Measured, humanistic documentary about the terms Jacinda Ardern was prime minister in New Zealand. Surprisingly excises more telling attacks on Ardern, but this shows what happens when a leader puts people ahead of politics.

Urchin (M). Observant, non-judgmental look at an addict trying to quit and live a fulfilling life, but finding it extremely difficult to accomplish. Beautifully acted.

Dust Bunny (M). From the creator of the Hannibal TV series, Bryan Fuller’s feature film directorial debut is immense fun, with a wildly stylish design and atmosphere. Not all that deep, but is a really entertaining ride. Great cast includes Mads Mikkelsen and Sigourney Weaver. Silent Night, Deadly Night (MA). Surprisingly inventive remake of the controversial but shoddy 1984 original, with a mix of genres that works well. From the director of the also unexpectedly good Wrong Turn remake.

Avatar: Fire And Ash (M). Ridiculously overlong, tiresome rehash of the previous two films, this is one hollow, painful slog, made by a filmmaker who is only thinking about visual accomplishment.

Anaconda (M). Meta-remake of the silly 1997 hit, this unfortunately stumbles because it takes itself a little too seriously at all the wrong moments. A good cast helps, but this is a missed opportunity.

Alpha (MA). Gorgeously crafted and well acted, this quietly provocative film takes the 80’s AIDS allegory and examines so many issues that is cracking society today. From the director of Raw and Titane.

Marty Supreme (MA). Supremely energetic comedy/ drama that is highly influenced by The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz. Timothee Chalamet is exceptional playing a totally reprehensible character. Overlong but compelling.

No Other Choice (M). Brilliant satire from director Park Chan-wook (Oldboy) is thoughtful, fast-paced and funny. Incredible lead performance by Lee Byung-hun. How this didn’t get any Oscar nominations is baffling. It Was Just An Accident (M). Absorbing, hypnotic and astounding film looking at the affects of living under a dictatorship, and how hard it can be to hold on to one’s humanity. Must-see viewing.

The Secret Agent (M). Brilliant drama examining how people react under a dictatorship, and is unsettlingly relevant when you look at the world today, even countries that are supposed democracies.

We Bury The Dead (MA). Interesting but frustrating Australian film that actually brings some new wrinkles to the zombie genre. Daisy Ridley delivers an impressive performance that holds the film together, with a good supporting turn from Mark Coles Smith. Hampered by a broad, stereotyped, misfired performance by Brenton Thwaites, and the film-makers not always hitting their targets with genuine, emotional precision. Worth a look.

Hamnet (M). Though not as good as the director’s previous films (Songs My Brother Taught Me, The Rider, Nomadland), Chloe Zhao’s new film is spare, symbolic and ultimately very moving. Terrific performances from Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal.

In terms of venues, the company has its four purpose-built spaces for use next year: the main theatre in Acland St for showcasing professional productions; the explosives factory for more experimental work; the twisk rehearsal space for developing work; and the black box cafe, bar and outdoor stage for socialising and building community.

28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (MA). Outstanding sequel to 28 Years Later goes very dark and gruesome, while incorporating an at times hilarious sense of humour. It evolves and develops, leading to a trippy but ultimately moving finale. The ending makes one hope Part 3 is made. Ralph Fiennes is amazing.

Peter Murphy

Primate (MA). Cujo meets Link in this gory but frustrating misfire, taking an absurd, potentially fun premise and treating it way too seriously. Watch Slotherhouse instead. Blue Moon (M). Theatrical but involving drama, brought to convincing life by Ethan Hawke’s incredible, fully engaged and energetic performance. Small scale but completely satisfying.

■ The humour of the Marx Brothers has been preserved in their comedy films. It is now 97 years since their first film

The Cocoanuts and they continue to be discovered by a new legion of fans.

Minnie Schonberg married Simon Marx in 1885, they were Jewish immigrants and lived in New York City’s Upper East Side. Minnie gave birth to six sons, Leonard (Chico), Adolph (Harpo), Julius (Groucho), Milton (Gummo), Herbert (Zeppo) and Manfred who sadly only survived for three months.

The boys learnt to play musical instruments and began in vaudeville at an early age.

Their uncle Albert was Al Shean from the famous team of Gallagher and Shean. They began as a singing troupe and their original stage act included their mother Minnie By 1913 the act had evolved into a comedy team featuring the four Marx Brothers

The original team consisted of Groucho, Chico, Harpo and Zeppo ( Gummo had left the act to enlist during WWI and never appeared in any of their films); each had their own unique character developed during their vaudeville appearances.

The story goes that Groucho became tired of sticking a moustache on for every show and took the easy way out by painting it on with greasepaint.

Harpo never spoke, Chico developed a character with an Italian accent and Zeppo was the handsome straight man.

Ha Ha Ha Ha Happened ppened ppened to ... the to to ... the to Marx Marx Marx Marx Brothers Brothers Brothers Brothers

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

They did three successful Broadway shows and this led to their first film The Cocoanuts with Paramount Studios in 1929.

Their feature films at Paramount included Animal Crackers, Monkey Business, Horse Feathers and Duck Soup Groucho and Chico starred in a radio series titled Flywheel, Shyster and Flywheel. They were signed by MGM Studios in 1934 where they made some of their best films.

Zeppo left the team to set up a very successful talent agency with his brother Milton I remember interviewing Allan Jones who was in two of their MGM films A Day at the Races and A Night at the Opera Allan told me that the Marx Brothers

tested their sketches in their stage shows. They timed the laughs and knew which sketches worked before they were included in their films.

Margaret Dumont was one of their regular cast members and always played the wealthy high society widow chased, insulted and romanced by Groucho.

She had worked in their Broadway shows and was absolutely marvellous.

Margaret won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in A Day at the Races

The boys were passionate gamblers and apparently they made their last two films A Night in Casablanca and Love Happy mainly to help pay Chico’s gambling debts. Chico was in Australia in 1949 performing for the Tivoli Circuit

During the 1950s Groucho Marx found fame as a quizmaster in the television series You Bet Your Life.

All the brothers have gone to God these days, but it is wonderful to watch their old films on television or DVD and have a good laugh at The Marx Brothers

Anyone like a ‘Tootsie Frootsie Ice Cream’?

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

AT MAPh, PAST STILL EXISTS IN THE PRESENT

Theatre Extra Theatre Extra Theatre Extra Theatre Extra Theatre Extra

P*rn

■ Something of a shambolic mildly entertaining Midsumma Festival offering, P*rn conveyed a lot of interesting factual information about the porn industry but little in the way of insight or critique.

A collage of nameless characters drifted on and off the stage. They were people using porn or working in the industry, identifying as trans, straight, gay or otherwise queer of some description.

Interactions between them were strange, full of passion, ennui and a sense of alien. Written by Keelan Armstrong (who also directed), P*rn had a loose fluid structure consisting of monologues, couple and group interactions, songs, brief one-liners, didactic lectures and multimedia screen projections. Busy in other words.

Admirable in its experimental form, it touched on a myriad of themes and issues raised by porn such as feminism, the male gaze, sexuality, child abuse - the list goes on. This scattergun approach was both a strength and a weakness.

An ensemble of six actors - Cassidy Capraro, Francine Miranda, Kaia Reyes, Kit Baker, Rory O’brien and Jackson Cross - brought the script to life.

Each had a strength to their performances through either their characterisations (the narcissistic stud, the busty lustful wench) or witty delivery. However they were not without weaknesses as well as too often dialogue was inaudible or actors were flat in their delivery.

In part, responsibility for such failings lay with Armstrong who, as previously mentioned, directed his own script. A more objective outside eye might have prevented such performance issues coupled with a longer more disciplined rehearsal period.

Still, the pace of the show meant that there was always something else waiting to surprise or shock and its slapstick sensibility was engaging to a certain degree.

Promoted as a dark comedy then, P*rn ultimately felt too slight and whimsical. Occasionally dark, occasionally funny, it felt like a missed opportunity to give porn and its $100 billion industry the fuller deeper treatment it cries out for.

Review by Peter Murphy

When Your Number’s Up

■ Arts House will reimagine the downstairs Supper Room at North Melbourne Town Hall to present Rel Pham’s free video installation When Your Number’s Up.

WhenYourNumber’sUp explores chance, systems and personal meaning by blending humour with quiet intensity. The work invites viewers to reflect on luck, inevitability and the unseen forces that shape everyday life, unfolding in a way that rewards curiosity and close attention.

“This work is about how people find meaning in chaos. It’s about our desire to believe, whether in divination or machine learning, and how those beliefs can both comfort and trap us,” explained Pham

The transformation of the Supper Room marks a shift for Arts House, broadening its artistic offer, deepening audience engagement and creating new opportunities for artists to experiment.

Arts House Head of Programming Naomi Velaphi said the new approach rethinks how people use the building and presents digital-based works.

February 12 – March 6. Mon. – Fri., 10am – 4pm Neighbourhood Gathering: Thursday, February 12. 5pm-7pm Arts House – North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne Tickets Free Review by Peter Murphy

The Crimson Thread – Erin Lee investigates the ubiquitous presence of Australia’s British heritage through the lens of Queen Elizabeth II’s Royal Tour of Australia.

Using speculative documentary photography, the project traces the Queen’s tour document that contemporary settler society in Australia like today, and its continuing ambition.

By highlighting the ways in which our ongoing celebration of colonial history sustains white privilege, The Crimson Thread invites viewers to question official histories and to consider how strongly our past still exists in the present.

Exhibition cluses March 9.

MAPh

800 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill

At Mornington

Unfolding – First Nations Works on Paper Is a major exhibition of First Nations works on paper featuring prints, drawings, paintings on paper and sculptural works from the MPRG Collection.

First Nations artists have used paper as a material to demonstrate a particular kind of strength and permeance - one that holds, canvases and expressions identity, body and self, language, connection to Country history and community,

Exhibition closes February 15.

★

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

It is one of the first neon sign installations by pioneering American artist Bruce Nauman , who has worked for over six decades across painting, sculpture, video performance and print.

Exhibition opens March 29 and closes March 28, 2027.

Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery Civic Reserve Dunns Rd, Mornington

Kingston Arts

Ex-Libris

(from the Collection of Chris Lowry)

This exhibition tames the viewer on an experimental journey as the artist blurs the lines between the past and future to create speculative archives. Lowry blends cabinets od curiosities, contemporary technology, as well as art historical and museological tropes to investigate our relationship with nature.

My Elder Sister – Abhijit Pal

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

A Circular Exchange – Katie Paine

A print series investigating historical communications technologies, drawing from archival images from the State Library of Victoria’s telecommunication archives and photographs taken at the Deutches Science ad Technology Museum in Munich.

Venue: Outdoor Lightbox Gallery Kingston Arts Precinct.

★

Sublime Light – Shaun Wilson.

A video art project exploring slowness, the sublime, and imagery, examining how cinema evokes emotion and memory through the horizon where ocean and land converge.

Exhibition closes Saturday March 14.

★ Wonders Under the Sun and Moon – Tai Snaith

Celebrate wondrous diurnal and nocturnal creatures from all over the world with an exhibition of illustrations from Snaith’s last two published children’s books

Exhibition closes Saturday April 4.

Venue: G3Gallery Shirley burke Theatre. Kingston Arts 979 Nepean Hwy, Moorabbin Peter Kemp

Business punished

■ The Essential Services Commission has taken action against two Victorian Energy Upgrades-accredited businesses for allegedly breaching the program rules.

Vision Environmental Solutions

The commission has placed a six-month restriction on Vision Environmental Solutions Pty Ltd’s VEU accreditation.

It alleges Vision Environmental Solutions and contractors working on its behalf made false claims about weather sealing and shower rose upgrades. This included claiming upgrades that did not occur and exaggerating the number of upgrades it completed.

This is the third enforcement action resulting from the commission’s fraud taskforce – a newly established unit focussed on stamping out fraudulent activity in high-volume, lowcost energy efficiency upgrades. Green Energy Trading

It alleges Green Energy Trading and contractors working on its behalf failed to obtain consumer consent for multiple non-buildingbased lighting upgrades. Green Energy Trading is banned from creating certificates for non-building-based lighting upgrades for three months.

Golden Guitar

■ The 54th Tamworth Country Music Festival has come and gone for another year and along with it the annual Golden Guitar winners announced.

Among the recipients were Tasmanian-based The Wolfe Bros who cleaned up, winning five Golden Guitar Awards , including 2026 Toyota Album of the Year.

Kasey Chambers and ex husband Shane Nicholson were also winners with an emotional song of heartbreak.

The Divorce Song, written and recorded by the two, won Song and Single of the Year.

Rivers Edge

■ Brendan McMahon’s new single The Rivers Edge tells the story of growing up in a small country town and having a whole lot of fun.

“Making our own billy-carts, playing every sport we possibly could and we’d even ride our bikes down to the river on the weekends to go fishing or swimming. We were kids having a blast down by the river's edge,” he says.

Neil at the Memo

■ Maverick Aussie song man Neil Murray was a founding member of the pioneering Warumpi Band, which in the 1980’s penetrated mainstream Australia with the iconic anthems My Island Home and Blackfella Whitefella Neil and his band will release the new single Still Here By My Side on Frixday, April 17, at the Memo Music Club, St Kilda . Tickets at the Memo

MY BRILLIANT CAREER IS ... BRILLIANT

■ Presented by the Melbourne Theatre Company, the awardwinning Australian musical My Brilliant Career has made a stunning return to the Southbank Theatre, The Sumner, playing until February 28.

Wow, what a show! This reimagined interpretation of Miles Franklin’s 1901 novel under the direction of AnneLouise Sarks takes musical theatre to another level.

With book by Sheridan Harbridge and Dean Bryant , music by Mathew Frank and lyrics by Dean Bryant, the show is set in regional New South Wales in the late 1890s.

Under the musical direction of Victoria Falconer, Frank’s smorgasbord of contemporary pop, bush balladry and pubrock was an instant crowdpleaser.

The concept of an ensemble of artists multi-tasking to play musical instruments, act, sing, dance and entertain with gusto works ingeniously for this show.

The ability of some of these ‘quadruple threats’ to dance and high kick whilst playing the cello, violin and guitar was awesome.

Kala Gare is fabulous as teenage protagonist Sybylla Melvin . With her powerhouse voice, musical skills and stage presence, Kala is also a naturalistic storyteller, seamlessly breaking the fourth wall to address and befriend her audience, sharing irony and delight.

An ensemble of multi-talented musical theatre artists skilfully intermixes to portray Franklin’s characters.

Each performer sparkles individually, including Drew Livingston, Ana Mitsikas, Raj Labade, Christine O’Neill, Cameron Bajraktarevic-Hayward, Melanie Bird, Lincoln Elliott, Victoria Falconer and Jarrad Payne.

Anne-Louise Sarks ensures her audience is entertained throughout the pacey show, complemented by Amy Campbell’s fresh, lively choreography.

Marg Horwell’s set design appears simple but is incredibly clever, succeeding in transporting the audience to the various story locations. The era authentic costumes include some spectacular puffsleeve designed dresses which add to visual interest.

A sense of joy radiates from this show as performers and audience share each delightful theatrical moment.

My Brilliant Career is an exciting new Australian musical, developed as part of the Jeanne Pratt Artist in Residency Program at Monash University. It deserves a place in the canon of Australian musical theatre.

Performance Season: Until February 28

Venue: Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Bookings: mtc.com.au

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Dandenong

Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Wednesday, February 4

Abraham, Rimi Amr, Omar Appuhammy, Kiriwellage Arrowsmith, Hayden Asimrashid, Muhammad Azadzoi, Homayon Azimi, Ahmad Bajagic, Tamara Barski, Adrian Beattie, Matthew Hanlon Brinkman, Tiffany Buckley, Brandon Butler, Adrienne Carr, Steven Carranza, Balmoris Carter, Tristan Castillo, Mario Compt, Dylan James Defa, Sembeta Deng Shock, Achilej Dockery-Ballard, Rachael Donald, Tristan Dornauf, Whiteney Duckworth, Ryan El-Samad, Mohamad Etienne, Christopher Louis Eung, Kimhai Ewaz Ali, Hamida Foot, Jake Frank, Jason Gai, Nyaboora Georgevici, Dragan Golder, Zinoviy Gony, Mana Green, Carol Hooper, Lee Matthew Hughes, Luke Hung, William Husseini, Payman Johari, Tun Josipovic, Anto Kane, Shaun Kaur, Jasveer Kemp, Lachlan Alexander Khatri, Hari Khawari, Sultan Kier, Ruackouth King, Adam Kingi, Mohi Kitt, Jared Paul Knott, Brodie Kotlair, Alice Kute, Lalya Landriat, Christopher Langenhoff, Brittany Light, Tanya Renee Lindqvist, Kenneth Lino, Thom Lord, Jamie Michael Mackay, Lochlan Maio, Gerardo Mangat, Inderpreet Marriott, Joshua Matin, Rohullah Michel, Thierry Mikael, Hany Misawi, Reza Moran, Drew Patrick Morris, Justin Nabawi, Abdul Nervosa, Italo Sergio Nga, Vo Nguyen, Toan Nicholls, Brendan Nookura, Ross Nugan, Clayton Oslakovic, Jason Pavouris, Anthony Anastasios Preet, Sahil Prentice, Mitchell Probst, Beau Qasimi, Hanif Ramchen, Kim Rhyne, Adrian Rohaidan, Tun M Roseby, Adam Saab, Daniel Sahil, Preet Saini, Vishal Sajadi, Khalil Samupo, Chad Shazad, Usman Shok, Achilj Deng Singh, Deepinder Smith, Andrew Smith, Lachlan Smith, Luke Sokolov, Nikolai Stevenson, Devon Stewart, Trent Sean Sturges, Taylor Tansey, Matthew John Thao, Chetra Thowat, Jal Tucker, Alan Urahman, Mujeeb Van Ginkel, Narelle Vanderwert, Ashleigh

Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au

Vaughan, Glen Wang, Wang Ruei Watson, Aaron Watson, Daniel Wells, Gypsy Williams, Harley Wilson, Bianca Woods, Kaleb Xinomilakis, Peter Yuvarajah, Chandra Hasan Zaw Min Tun, Omar Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, February 4 Abdalhain, Hassan Abdallah, Ali Acuity Financial Soultions Pty Ltd Amazing Homes Pty Ltd Anthony, Marcus Arcus, Max Arvanitis, Katerina Baker, Desmond Battan, Anish Bowitt Group Pty Ltd Brady, Gavin Ross Brown, Allison Cabrera, Joeselito Cai, Bin Campbell, Christine Ellen Chapman, David Chase, Timothy Chen, Xiaoxiong Cooper, Lisa Maree Cousins, Peter Curtis, Victoria Rose Dale, Thomas Maxwell Diamond Builders Pty Ltd Dorey, Marc Elsammani, Basil Farrar, William John Farrugia, Teresa Fuangfoo, Phannifa Gaffney, Melinda Diane Gibbs, Jeremy Goodthing Pty Ltd Goonawardene, Ravindu Shivanka Hagopian, John Hang, Emma Hill, Russell John Hine, Derrick Leonard Holland, Colin Ikonomou, George Kamali, Moayed Khumra, Waleed Khalid Ahmed Kogan, Lolanthe Krinelos, Nick Laxmana, Thashmi Leibish Investments Pty Ltd Leworthy, Pippa Liu, Bei Lole, Steve Loodin, Fazlurahman Lugoda, Vimansana Ma, Xiaojin Maslen, Stephen Mccallum, Stephen Mullins, Max Otieno, Beryl Ozden, Murat Pek, Tony Pham, Vu-Toan Pickering, Andrew Patrick Ranasinghe, Upul Perera Reliance Worldwide Corporation (Aust.) Rezaie, Hussain Richardson, Kevin Rosenthal, Brad Rowshan, Alexis Saarinsen, Julian Scott, Damian Scriven, Katherine Serenity Property Services Pty Ltd Sheng, Xinjie Shortis, Andrew Stewart Smith, Bradley Snow, Yasemin Sohi, Hardeep Sparks, Benjamin Stelatel Communicaions Pty Surman, Theodore Tran, Trinh Tsimos Finance Pty Ltd Turner, Gary Warshapperuma, Thashandi Navindrini Wen, Guoxiu Xia, Mingxian

Hicks site plans

■ Plans to reimagine Officer’s iconic kiln site are now on public exhibition.

Cardinia Shire Council is exhibiting proposed Planning Scheme Amendment C282card and planning permit (T230528), offering a renewed future for the historic James Hicks pottery site in Officer

Rosebud warrant

■ Southern Metro Region Four Divisional Response Unit members have arrested and charged a man after executing a warrant in Rosebud on Friday morning (Jan. 30).

Officers attended an address in Sharen Ct about 9.30am on 30 January as part of an ongoing investigation.

They arrested a 53-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman and searched the property.

It is alleged that officers located a number of items including firearms, ammunition, drugs, a 3D printer and cash.

The 53-year-old has been charged with traffick commercial quantity of drugs, traffic drug of dependence, possess traffickable quantity of firearms and possess proceeds of crime.

He swas remanded to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on February 2.

The 58-year-old woman was released pending summons.

Clyde home invasion

■ Southern Metro Region Crime Squad detectives are appealing for public assistance following a frightening and violent aggravated home invasion in Clyde North Police responded to reports of two unknown men pulling up in a vehicle on Aintree Close about 2.20am on Friday, January 23.

It is understood that the pair then gained access to the garage of a residence on Yellowstone Avenue

The offenders confronted a male resident in the garage and threatened him with a firearm, making demands for car keys.

The 58-year-old refused to hand over the keys and was assaulted before he fell to the ground and lost consciousness.

A 59-year-old woman who was asleep in the home at the time, was then disturbed by the same offenders who demanded her car keys.

The duo, who made off with a wallet and garage fob, were unable to steal the victim’s vehicle as it was fitted with a club lock.

They were last seen fleeing the scene in what was believed to be a marooncolour sedan, towards Patterson Rd

The woman was not physically injured, while the 58-year-old man was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The first offender is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, aged in his early 20’s, is approximately 180cm tall with a tanned complexion and blue eyes.

He was seen wearing a black hoodie and black surgical mask at the time of offending.

The second offender is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance, aged in his late teens, is approximately 180cm tall with blue eyes.

He was seen wearing a black ski mask and a black hoodie at the time of offending.

Detectives believe both offenders were wielding firearms.

Pier re-opens

■ The rebuilt Hampton Pier has opened. The new timber decking preserves the look and feel of the original pier and is supported by a durable steelpiled structure, with custom seating crafted from materials salvaged from the old structure.

The addition of a 24-metre floating pontoon provides easier access to the water and ladders have been added to improve safety and accessibility.

The design of the new pier was developed in consultation with stakeholders and the community, ensuring the new design combined functionality and the charm of the former structure. It was uilt in the 1880s.

Local Cricket Weekend Results

Premier

■ Firsts. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Melbourne 1st XI 6/327 v Carlton 1st XI. 9/326. Richmond 1st XI 10/256 v Ringwood 1st XI 10/150.

Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 3/254 v St Kilda 1st XI 10/193. Northcote 1st XI 8-d/357 v Essendon 1st XI 10/252. Melbourne University 1st XI 10/316 v Prahran 1st XI 10/375. Geelong 1st XI 10/187 v Dandenong 1st XI 4/282. Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 2/228 v Footscray 1st XI 10/206. Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 10/291 v Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 10/180. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 10/251 v Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 10/284.

■ Seconds. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Carlton 2nd XI 10/261 v Melbourne 2nd XI 7-d/304. Ringwood 2nd XI 7/285 v Richmond 2nd XI 10/204. St Kilda 2nd XI 10/252 v Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 10/141. Essendon 2nd XI 10/ 130 v Northcote 2nd XI 10/176 & 2/29. Prahran 2nd XI 10/314 v Melbourne University 2nd XI 10/186. Dandenong 2nd XI 10/195 v Geelong 2nd XI 5-d/304. Footscray 2nd XI 10/385 v Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/196. Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 10/137 v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 10/246. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 10/257 & 1/10 v Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 10/168.

■ Thirds. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Melbourne 3rd XI 7/311 v Carlton 3rd XI 10/245. Richmond 3rd XI 10/189 & 0/6 v Ringwood 3rd XI 10/223. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI 9/289 v St Kilda 3rd XI 9/291. Northcote 3rd XI 9/315 v Essendon 3rd XI 10/236. Melbourne University 3rd XI 7/261 v Prahran 3rd XI 10/258. Geelong 3rd XI 5/308 v Dandenong 3rd XI 10/137. Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 10/198 v Footscray 3rd XI 10/250. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 10/171 v Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI 10/185. Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 10/178 v Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 2-d/288.

■ Fourths. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Carlton 4th XI 10/157 v Melbourne 4th XI 10/236. Ringwood 4th XI 10/237 v Richmond 4th XI 9/336. St Kilda 4th XI 7/136 v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI 7/155. Essendon 4th XI 3-d/142 & 5/153 v Northcote 4th XI 10/133 & 2-d/158. Prahran 4th XI 10/175 v Melbourne University 4th XI 8/198. Dandenong 4th XI 10/264 v Geelong 4th XI 8/262. Footscray 4th XI 10/168 v Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 5/292. Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 10/187 v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 8-d/287. Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 7/330 v Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI 10/211.

Sub-District

■ East West 1st XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Bayswater 1st XI v Box Hill 1st XI 9/ 234. Croydon 1st XI v Balwyn 1st XI 10/206. Mt Waverley 1st XI v Endeavour Hills 1st XI 10/226. Noble Park 1st XI 5/108 v Donvale 1st XI 10/98. Melton 1st XI 2/11 v Altona 1st XI 10/160. Spotswood 1st XI 10/220 v Yarraville 1st XI. Taylors Lakes 1st XI v Williamstown 1st XI 10/228. Werribee 1st XI 1/55 v Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 10/205.

■ East West 2nd XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Box Hill 2nd XI 10/70 v Bayswater 2nd XI 10/123. Balwyn 2nd XI v Croydon 2nd XI 7/250. Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 10/209 v Mt Waverley 2nd XI. Donvale 2nd XI 2/55 v Noble Park 2nd XI 10/220. Altona 2nd XI 6/120 v Melton 2nd XI 10/73. Yarraville 2nd XI 10/245 v Spotswood 2nd XI 0/6. Williamstown 2nd XI 10/195 v Taylors Lakes 2nd XI. Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/133 v Werribee 2nd XI 1/38.

■ North South 1st XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Brunswick 1st XI 2/98 v Coburg 1st XI 10/215. Ivanhoe 1st XI v Preston 1st XI 9/ 310. St Bernard's OC 1st XI 7-d/126 v Plenty Valley 1st XI 10/44 & 2/16. Strathmore 1st XI v Kew 1st XI 4/308, abandoned. Brighton 1st XI 9-d/261 v Ormond 1st XI 0/7. Caulfield 1st XI 10/188 v Malvern 1st XI 1/30. Moorabbin 1st XI 10/200 v Oakleigh 1st XI 0/13. Port Melbourne 1st XI 3/64 v Elsternwick 1st XI 10/149.

■ North South 2nd XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Coburg 2nd XI v Brunswick 2nd XI 6/381. Preston 2nd XI 9/253 v Ivanhoe 2nd XI. Plenty Valley 2nd XI v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 7/356. Kew 2nd XI 10/156 v Strathmore 2nd XI 3/34. Ormond 2nd XI 10/165 v Brighton 2nd XI 0/24. Malvern 2nd XI 3/43 v Caulfield 2nd XI 10/146. Oakleigh 2nd XI 10/223 v Moorabbin 2nd XI 1/14. Elsternwick 2nd XI 10/184 v Port Melbourne 2nd XI 1/1.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 4/142 v Melton 3rd XI 10/104. Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/106 v Brunswick 3rd XI 2/47.

Preston 3rd XI 5/175 v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 10/67. Werribee 3rd XI 10/218 v Taylors

Lakes 3rd XI.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Altona 3rd XI 0/7 v Yarraville 3rd XI 10/118. Ivanhoe 3rd XI 10/ 294 v Williamstown 3rd XI. Kew 3rd XI 2/ 55 v Strathmore 3rd XI 10/252. Spotswood 3rd XI 10/186 v Coburg 3rd XI 2/16.

■ North West 4th XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Melton 4th XI 10/123 v Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 2/32. Brunswick 4th XI v Plenty Valley 4th XI. St Bernard's OC 4th XI 0/12 v Preston 4th XI. Taylors Lakes 4th XI 7-d/215 v Werribee 4th XI 4/ 26.

■ North West 4th XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Yarraville 4th XI 5/95 v Altona 4th XI 10/85. Williamstown 4th XI 10/114 v Ivanhoe 4th XI 3/61. Strathmore 4th XI 5/77 v Kew 4th XI 10/74. Coburg 4th XI v Spotswood 4th XI 5/231.

■ South East 3rd XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Balwyn 3rd XI v Mt Waverley 3rd XI 8/270. Caulfield 3rd XI v Elsternwick 3rd XI 10/258. Croydon 3rd XI 0/6 v Malvern 3rd XI 10/242. Oakleigh 3rd XI 1/43 v Bayswater 3rd XI 10/142.

■ South East 3rd XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Noble Park 3rd XI v Box Hill 3rd XI. Port Melbourne 3rd XI 1/8 v Brighton 3rd XI 10/144. Donvale 3rd XI 0/8 v Moorabbin 3rd XI 10/254. Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 10/130 v Ormond 3rd XI 5/67.

■ South East 4th XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Mt Waverley 4th XI 3/ 48 v Balwyn 4th XI 10/126. Elsternwick 4th XI v Caulfield 4th XI 8/213. Malvern 4th XI 10/217 v Croydon 4th XI. Sunday, February 1: Bayswater 4th XI v Oakleigh 4th XI.

■ South East 4th XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Box Hill 4th XI 9/31 v Noble Park 4th XI 10/94 & 2/19. Brighton 4th XI 10/175 v Port Melbourne 4th XI 2/ 21. Moorabbin 4th XI v Donvale 4th XI 9/ 264. Ormond 4th XI 10/268 v Endeavour Hills 4th XI.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Bundoora United 1st XI 3/30 v Riverside 1st XI 10/128. Diamond Creek 1st XI 6/293 v Rosebank 1st XI. Macleod 1st XI 1/ 22 v Epping 1st XI 10/176. North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI 0/4 v Bundoora 1st XI 10/ 232. Rosanna 1st XI 3/2 v Heidelberg 1st XI 10/194.

■ Money Shield. Plenty 1st XI 10/181 v Bundoora Park 1st XI 1/27. Eltham 1st XI v Montmorency 1st XI 7/257. Mernda 1st XI 10/128 v Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 1/43. Lower Plenty 1st XI 10/273 v Banyule 1st XI 0/1. Lalor Stars 1st XI 1/27 v Greensborough 1st XI 10/124.

■ Mash Shield. Hurstbridge 1st XI 1/136 v Mill Park 1st XI 10/121. Laurimar 1st XI 3/ 266 v Dennis 1st XI. Lower Eltham 1st XI 8/272 v Keon Park CC 1st XI. Panton Hill 1st XI 10/74 v Rivergum 1st XI 4/92. Thomastown United 1st XI 5/80 v Thomastown 1st XI 10/122. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 5/58 v South Morang 1st XI 10/153.

■ B-Grade. Banyule 2nd XI v North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI. Heidelberg 2nd XI v Rosanna 2nd XI. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI v Mernda 2nd XI. Riverside 2nd XI v Plenty 2nd XI. Montmorency 2nd XI v Diamond Creek 2nd XI.

■ C-Grade. Bundoora 2nd XI 10/78 & 0/7 v Lower Plenty 2nd XI 2-d/81. Greensborough 2nd XI 2/36 v Lalor Stars 2nd XI 10/ 201. South Morang 2nd XI 6/392 v Macleod 2nd XI. Riverside 3rd XI 10/239 v Bundoora United 2nd XI. Rivergum 2nd XI 0/14 v Eltham 2nd XI 10/177.

■ D-Grade. North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 0/2 v Laurimar 2nd XI 10/184. Mill Park 2nd XI 9/116 v Hurstbridge 2nd XI 4/87. Montmorency 3rd XI 10/181 v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 2/103. Bundoora Park 2nd XI 1/20 v Diamond Creek 3rd XI 10/210. Rosebank 2nd XI 10/65 v Panton Hill 2nd XI. Keon Park CC 2nd XI 10/126 v Lower Plenty 3rd XI 2/87

■ E-Grade. Mernda 3rd XI 0/120 v Thomastown United 2nd XI 10/114. Dennis 2nd XI 10/85 v Riverside 4th XI 1/109. Greensborough 3rd XI 10/219 v Lower Eltham 2nd XI 1/5. Thomastown 2nd XI v Banyule 3rd XI 9/279. Bye: South Morang 3rd XI

■ F1-Grade. Banyule 4th XI 10/102 v Rivergum 3rd XI 5/194. Eltham 3rd XI 9/ 271 v Macleod 3rd XI. Bundoora United

3rd XI 10/125 v Dennis 3rd XI 1/20. Laurimar 3rd XI 10/183 v Whittlesea 1st XI 0/5. Research Eltham Collegians 3rd XI 0/ 21 v Greensborough 4th XI 10/126.

■ F2-Grade. Riverside 5th XI 8/258 v South Morang 4th XI. Lower Plenty 4th XI 10/226 v Research Eltham Collegians 4th XI 1/15. Banyule 5th XI v Greensborough 5th XI. Hurstbridge 3rd XI 10/288 v Mernda 4th XI 0/2. Bye: Montmorency 4th XI.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Bulleen 1st XI 9/173 v Glen Iris 1st XI 6/222. Old Carey 1st XI 3/ 161. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 10/160. East Doncaster 1st XI 2/137 v Edinburgh 1st XI 10/136. North Balwyn 1st XI 10/138 v Mont Albert 1st XI 4/255.

■ Wright Shield. Mulgrave 1st XI 10/142 v Heathmont 1st XI 6/151. Surrey Hills 1st XI 8/194 v Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/151. Richmond City 1st XI 8/169 v Canterbury 1st XI 6/173. Ashburton Willows 1st XI 2/ 153 v Marcellin OC 1st XI 10/152.

■ A Turf. Mont Albert 2nd XI 6/159 v Old Carey 2nd XI 2/160. Burwood 1st XI 5/193 v Ashwood 1st XI 9/191. Boronia 1st XI 6/ 169 v Mazenod OC 1st XI 8/166. Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 10/158 v Balwyn Saints 1st XI 5/283.

■ B Turf. Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 5/199 v East Doncaster 2nd XI 6/200. Richmond Union 1st XI 4/141 v Bulleen 2nd XI 10/140. Heathmont 2nd XI 10/136 v North Balwyn 2nd XI 7/170. Canterbury 2nd XI 4/172 v St Kevins Old Boys 1st XI 9/171.

■ C Turf. La Trobe University 1st XI 9/176 v Burwood 2nd XI 3/180. Glen Iris 2nd XI 9/237 v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI 10/ 162. East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 7/169 v Mulgrave 2nd XI 3/173. Edinburgh 2nd XI 5/120 v Boronia 2nd XI 9/118.

■ D Turf. Mazenod OC 2nd XI 10/113 v Surrey Hills 2nd XI 10/101. Marcellin OC 2nd XI 10/105 v Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 7/149. Old Carey 3rd XI 10/204 v Richmond City 2nd XI 7/181. Ashwood 2nd XI 3/140 v Mont Albert 3rd XI 10/139.

■ E Turf. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI 7/150 v East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI 6/146. Marcellin OC 3rd XI 10/118 v Surrey Hills 3rd XI 3/119. Edinburgh 3rd XI 9/174 v Heathmont 3rd XI 7/173. Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 4/297 v Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/108. La Trobe University 2nd XI 10/ 141 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 10/242.

■ F Turf. East Doncaster 3rd XI 4/205 v Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI 10/149. St Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 8/171 v Bulleen 3rd XI 2/175. East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI 10/ 127 v Surrey Hills 4th XI 7/128. Sunday, february 1:Mont Albert 4th XI v Richmond City 3rd XI. Bye: Heathmont 4th XI.

■ MacGibbon Shield. STC South Camberwell 1st XI 7/187 v Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 9/188. West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/153 v Clifton Hill 1st XI 1/156. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 10/120 v Holy Trinity 1st XI 1/123. Glen Waverley 1st XI 8/178 v Trinity Willison 1st XI 10/146.

■ Burt Shield. Holy Trinity 2nd XI 10/154 v Toorak Prahran 1st XI 3/160. Clifton Hill 2nd XI 7/191 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI 8/194. Trinity Willison 2nd XI 4/358 v Glen Waverley 2nd XI 10/109. St Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 5/277 v North Alphington 1st XI 10/154.

Mornington Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. One Day. Pines 1sts 9/171 v Mornington 1sts 10/142. Langwarrin 1sts 1/113 v Dromana 1sts 10/112. Baden Powell 1sts 9/166 v Red Hill 1sts 10/124. Heatherhill 1sts 7/180 v Sorrento 1sts 1/181. ■ Peninsula Firsts. Mt Eliza 1sts 6/218 v Seaford CC 1sts 6/222. Long Island 1sts 10/ 101 v Somerville 1sts 8/182. Old Peninsula 1sts 4/166 v Balnarring 1sts 7/167. Rosebud 1sts 6/169 v Moorooduc 1sts 10/101.

■ District Firsts. Seaford Tigers 1sts 10/ 179 v Rye 1sts 9/198. Carrum Downs 1sts 6/ 125 v Crib Point 1sts 10/121. Main Ridge 1sts 4/264 v Flinders 1sts 10/238. Carrum CC 1sts 3/142 v Boneo 1sts 10/138.

■ Sub-District Firsts. Ballam Park 1sts 8/ 98 v Tyabb 1sts 3/100. Pearcedale 1sts 10/ 62 v Skye 1sts 7/203. Tootgarook 1sts 7/120 v Delacombe Park 1sts 10/116. Mt Martha 1sts 8/176 v Baxter 1sts 6/182. Bye: Frankston YCW 1st.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. One Day. Preston Baseballers

CC 1st XI 9/255 v Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/141. Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI 6/ 277 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 8/292. Donath CC 1st XI 6/227 v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 4/204.

■ Jack Quick Shield. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/147 v Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 4/ 149. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 6/205 v Cameron CC 1st XI 9/147. West Preston CC 1st XI 10/150 v Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI 6/205.

■ Jack Kelly Shield. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI 10/155 v West Preston CC 2nd XI 7/170. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 8/134 v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 10/133. Fairfield CC 1st XI 9/139 v Preston YCW District 1st XI 3/140.

■ B-Grade. Wollert Rhinos CC 1st XI v Fairfield CC 2nd XI. West Preston CC 3rd XI Forfeit v Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI. Northern Socials CC 2s XI 0/44 v Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI 10/260.

■ C-Grade. Bellfield Bulls CC 4th XI 9/227 v Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI 2/228. Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI 6/166 v Royal Park Reds 4th XI 5/189. Fiji Victorian CC 4th XI 10/140 v Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI 5/ 201. Bye: Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI

■ Robert Young DODC. Cameron CC OD 8/299 v Donath CC OD 9/193. Preston YCW District OD 7/163. Camrea Stingrays CC OD 10/135. Olympic Colts CC OD 7/205 v Kinglake CC OD 5/193.

Ringwood District

■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two Days. Jan. 24 and 31. Norwood 1XI 9-d/162 v South Croydon 1XI 7/230. Ainslie Park 1XI 3-d/ 161 v Lilydale 1XI 10/160. North Ringwood 1XI 9/167 v St Andrews 1XI 9/214. Montrose 1XI 3/189 v Croydon Ranges 1XI 9/187.

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Wantirna South 1XI 9/ 162 v Kilsyth 1XI 10/150. Warranwood 1XI 7/195 v East Ringwood 1XI 4/196. Mt Evelyn 1XI 5/209 v Mooroolbark 1XI 9/224. Bayswater Park 1XI 7/153 v Vermont 1XI 9/152. Heatherdale 1XI 8/232 v Wonga Park 1XI 9/145.

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Templeton 1XI 3/ 171 v Chirnside Park 1XI 8/170. South Warrandyte 1XI 6/232 v Seville Burras 1XI 10/197. Heathwood 1XI 10/122 v Healesville 1XI 2/125. Yarra Junction 1XI 10/148 v Warrandyte 1XI 7/180.

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Croydon North 1XI 8/197 v North Ringwood 2XI 8/197. Warrandyte 2XI 10/95 v Montrose 2XI .4/97 South Croydon 2XI 3/130 v Norwood 2XI 10/128. East Ringwood 2XI 5/104 v Ainslie Park 2XI 10/103.

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Two Days. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. East Sandringham 1 6-d/357 v Brighton Union 1. Bentleigh Uniting 1 10/ 232 v West Bentleigh 1. Kingston Heath 1 9/280 v Washington Park 1. Le Page Park 1 9/296 v Bentleigh ANA 1.

■ Woolnough Shield. Mackie 1 10/269 v CHAG 1 2/19. Cheltenham Park 1 10/164 v Elwood 1 1/33. Carnegie South 1 10/324 v Hampton Central 1. Cluden 1 v Omega 1 4/ 138.

■ Quiney Shield. Omega 2 10/188 v Le Page Park 2 2/10. Washington Park 2 9/230 v Highett West 1. CUCC Kings 3 v Bentleigh Uniting 2 5/307. Hampton United 1 2/60 v East Sandringham 2 10/125.

■ Pullen Shield. East Bentleigh Central 1 10/176 v Cluden 2 1/22. Melbourne Wanderers 1 10/200 v Kingston Heath 2 0/12. Elwood 2 10/174 v Diamond 1 10/95. Brighton Union 2 10/101 & 1/29 v Mackie 2 5/102. ■ E-Grade. Southside East Caulfield 1 5/ 137 v CUCC Kings 4 10/91. Hampton Central 2 v Mackie 3 10/265. CHAG 2 v South East Oakleigh 1 10/128. Washington Park 3 v Le Page Park 3 9/278. Saturday, February 7: Melbourne Districts United 1 v East Bentleigh Central 2.

Western

■ A-Grade. Two Days. Jan. 31 and feb. 7. Altona Sports 1st XI 2/56 v Truganina Strikers CC Yellow 1st XI 10/144. Williams Landing SC 1st XI 10/317 v Tarneit Central 4th XI. West Point Titans 2nd XI 0/16 v Manor Lakes 2nd XI 10/281.

■ B-Grade. Glen Orden Thunder 6th XI 6d/267 v AA Tarneit 1st XI 4/47. Vic Bangladeshi SC 2nd XI 10/133. Wyndham Vale 3rd XI 5/171. Western Lions 1st XI 7d/303 v Point Cook 5th XI 1/7. Point Cook Centrals 3rd XI 10/229 v Altona Sports 2nd XI 1/4.

5-STAR RATING FOR GUEST HOUSE

■ This Saturday (Feb./ 7) at Caulfield , six more horses will qualify for a start in the $2 million Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes to be run a fortnight later.

The first three home in each of the male and female divisions of the Blue Diamond Prelude will earn an exemption from the ballot process.

Already guaranteed a start are Geelong Diamond winner Moana Spirit, as well as Blue Diamond Preview winners Alibaba (colts and geldings) and Rubi’s Choice (fillies).

However, because neither Preview winner was nominated for the Blue Diamond, their owners will be required to pay a late entry fee to be allowed to start in the race.

The remainder of the 16-horse field will be determined based on aggregate prizemoney, excluding restricted races such as the Magic Millions ; that race being confined to horses sold or passed-in at a Magic Millions Yearling Sale

Let’s look at the likely contenders, some of whom will compete in this week’s Preludes, as they head towards their major goal on February 21.

Colts and Geldings

Guest House

Joined the leaders three-wide early in what appeared to have been an unsuitable 1000 metres at Cranbourne and scored a soft win on debut.

This son of first-season sire Home Affairs carries the Roll The Dice Racin g colours, a boutique thoroughbred racing operation making it possible for people to share in racehorse ownership.

Trainers Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr rate him ahead of stablemate Big Sky and he appears to have an exciting future.

Mick Price is seeking his third Blue Diamond Stakes success, having previously put the polish on Samaready (2012) and Extreme Choice (2016).

Big Sky

Professional looking galloper and despite playing second fiddle to Guest House at his stable complex, has shown he should be right in the mix.

Unit Five

Two starts for two first-place finishes. Debuted at Caulfield over 1100 metres with a strong win. Followed up by taking out the 1200 metres Magic Millions 2yo Classic. Can’t fault that form.

High Alert

Extremely unlucky not to win a Blue Diamond Preview at his first test under race conditions and trained by Anthony and Sam Freedman.

Anthony won the 2019 Blue Diamond Stakes with Lyre, before the training partners won back-to-back Blue Diamond Stakes in 2021 and 2022 with Artorious and Daumier respectively.

Eurocanto

Was going to start favourite until having to be scratched at the barriers in the Blue Diamond Preview, so must be respected.

Trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes. Ben and JD trained Little Brose to win the 2023 Blue Diamond Stakes , while Ben was also a co-trainer of 2017 winner Catchy

Eternal Warrior

Rod Basto

Came from well back and wide to just grab Stretan Ruler on the line in the Merson Cooper Stakes at Caulfield over 1000 metres in late November, with Alibaba a close third. That form stands up.

Tough Romance

Yet to race but impressed in a jump out behind Eurocanto at Werribee , prompting some punters to support him in early markets.

Stretan Ruler

Three-wide with no cover in the Merson Cooper Stakes and just grabbed on the line by Eternal Warrior. Can’t be discounted on that effort.

Fillies

Highly rated filly trained by Grahame Begg , who won the 2018 Blue Diamond Stakes with Written By Jacaranda

Only start was an easy winner at Seymour over 1100 metres in a field of three. Hard to gauge on that but is a halfsister to 2021 Blue Diamond Stakes winner Artorius , by Home Affairs , and is a nice type. She is also another contender trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes Moana Spirit

Won on debut at Morphettville in Adelaide over 1000 metres prior to winning the Geelong Diamond over 1100 metres. Has settled back off the pace and powered home at both runs.

★

Victory in the Blue Diamond Previews or Preludes has proven in the past to be a stepping stone to Blue Diamond Stakes success.

In total, 21 horses have achieved this feat, with just five winning both lead-up races.

Rancher (1982), Midnight Fever (1987), Bel Esprit (2002), Sepoy (2011) and Hyasugi (2024) are the quintet who were able to rack up this hat-trick of wins.

While the Blue Diamond Stakes has been run since 1971 when Tolerance triumphed, these key precursor events were only introduced in 1982.

Horses To Follow

■ Cafe Millenium

■ Military Tycoon

■ Mr Bannock

■ Salty Pearl

■ Trapper John

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, February 4: Sandown Lakeside

■ Thursday, February 5: Pakenham

■ Friday, February 6: Colac, Cranbourne

■ Saturday, February 7: Caulfield, Yarra Valley, Woolamai

■ Sunday, February 8: Wangaratta, Ararat

■ Monday, February 9: Caulfield Heath

■ Tuesday, February 10: Kyneton

SUMMER CARNIVAL IN FULL SWING

■ Harness Racing Victoria’s Summer Carnival is in full swing with the $100,000 Decron Cranbourne (Group 1) Gold Cup last Saturday (January 31) following three of the big five – those already held have been the Bendigo, Shepparton and Ballarat.

Let’s have a look at what’s happened to date:

Bendigo

■ The Bendigo Cup was transferred to Melton due to the extreme heat expected on Saturday January 10 and it was 11yo Art Official-My Riviera Girl gelding Bulletproof Boy a giant killer of the 1609 metre dash for Cranbourne part-owner/trainer Scott Ewen.

Driven by James Herbertson, Bulletproof Boy (gate two second line) enjoyed a sweet passage one/two as NSW hope Hi Manameisjeff (gate three) crossed polemarker Petracca shortly after the start.

When Kingman another from NSW vacated the prime one/one position to move three wide approaching the final bend, he looked the winner, with Petracca gaining an inside passage to momentarily lead on turning and Bulletproof Boy following Kingman home.

Switching to the sprint lane in the straight, Bulletproof Boy blowsed Petracca by 1.7 metres in a mile rate of 1-51.2 track record.

Kingman was third 2.1 metres back.

Shepparton

■ Champions of the day have won the Shepparton Gold Cup over the years, horses such as Last Command, Raiamagh Pool, Bold David, Just Too Good, Royal Gaze, Popular Alm, Quite Famous, Tailamade Lombo, Sokyola, Sting Lika Bee and Hector Jay Jay to name just a few.

The race which attracts a massive crowd and did again on Saturday January 17 featured two of Australia’s best in Kingman and multi millionaire Leap To Fame in a disappointing field of five and it was Kingman too superior.

Trained and driven by Cobbity (NSW) horseman Luke McCarthy for owner/ breeder Mick Harvey who has enjoyed plenty of success with both harness horses and gallopers, Kingman a Kiwi bred 5Y0 stallion by Always B Miki from Gotta Go Dali Queen had little difficulty in leading from the pole over the 2660 metre journey leaving Leap To Fame (gate three) in the open.

Dropping to trail at the bell, Leap To Fame came away from the inside to be outside Kingman running into the final bend as the leader kicked on turning appearing to have the race in his keeping.

In quarters of 27.9, 28.6, 28.5 and 27.2 following a lead time of 77.9 seconds, Kingman returned a brilliant mile rate of 1-53.7 to obliterate the track record of 155.6 held by Spirit Of St Louis in 2022. The winning margin was 2.9 metres clear of Leap To Fame who wasn’t disgraced by any stretch of imagination. Our Luciano (gate four – one/one last half) was third 43.1 metres away.

Trotters Cup

■ It was a highly elated local (Congupna) owner/trainer Eddie Tappe who was victorious in the Trotters Cup with one of the most improved horses in the last 12 months 7Y0 Majestic Son-Aldebaran Peggy gelding Im Bobby.

In what was without doubt the ‘drive of the night’ by James Herbertson, Im Bobby after leading from gate two kept the hot favourite Arcee Phoenix (gate four) working outside him at various stages in the 2690 metre feature, before giving Im Bobby full rein on turning to greet the judge by a 13.8 metre margin over Arcee Phoenix who didn’t shark the task. Gotfeelingsyouknow (outside front line) went three wide from the tail in the last lap for a respectable third albeit 5.8 metres away.

In quarters of 30.2, 30.9, 27.7 and 28.6 after a lead time of 80.5 seconds, Im Bobby returned a mile rate of 1-59.6.

Adding more joy to a big payout on the night, Eddie owned, trained and drove 8Y0 Majestic Son-Aldebaran Peggy mare Abbie to land the $12,000 Goodfellows GV Re-

gional Trotters Cup Final over 2190 metres. Starting from gate two on the second line, Eddie wasted no time in sending Abbie forward to race exposed outside the pacemaker Hillwinsome and Abbie outstayed her rivals to record a half neck margin from poleliner Suzys Dream (three pegs) which flashed late along the sprint lane.

The favourite With Aplomb (one/one from the extreme draw – three wide last lap) was third a nose away in a thrilling finish. The mile rate 2-03.2.

Next Saturday will be Ballarat Cup Night and it will be interesting to see who lines up in the $100,000 feature.

Ballarat

■ The knockers were out in force on Saturday January 25 with many reasons why Australasia’s champion pacer Leap To Fame couldn’t win the Pacing Cup even though he was a short priced favourite at $1-55 after drawing outside the front line, whereas his main danger last weeks raging hot Shepparton Gold Cup victor Kingman had to contend with a solo second line draw.

When the gate pulled away polemarker Mach Dan showed his customary speed to lead from Catch A Wave (gate two) which dropped to his back with Grant Dixon and Leap To Fame going forward three wide while Kingman settled three back along the markers being followed by Triple Eight and Forty Love. Giant killer Bulletproof Boy (Bendigo Cup victor) had no luck from gate five being left exposed being followed by Dee Roe.

Running into the first turn Leap To Fame crossed Mach Dan pushing those trailing back a spot as the field made formation.

Coming away from the markers to race uncovered prior to the bell, Kingman moved to join Leap To Fame with Bulletproof Boy now getting a breather one/one. Dee Roe and Forty Love remained at the rear.

Moving to get on terms with Leap To Fame in the back straight on the final occasion, Kingman was immediately put under pressure and racing untractable running into the final bend as Leap To Fame raced away to score by 11.4 metres from the Aaron Dunn stablemates Dee Roe out wide and Forty Love inside him 1.2 metres in arrears who both ran the race of their lives. Kingman was a head away fourth and Bulletproof Boy fifth a further metre away.

In quarters of 29.1, 28.7, 26.4 and 27.5 after a lead time of 80.9 seconds, Leap To Fame registering his 62nd success from 80 outings for over five million dollars in stakes.

A 7Y0 Bettor’s Delight-Lettucereason entire, Leap To Fame returned a 1-54.4 mile rate taking 4 tenths of a second off Smolda’s track record set in 2017.

$75,00 (Group 2) Harwood Grains Ballarat Trotters Cup – 2200 metres. It was nothing more than a ‘stroll in the park’ for the Marg & Paddy Lee trained outstanding home bred 5Y0 VolsteadKeayang Yankee mare Keayang Zahara ($1-04) in the Trotters Cup.

Raced by the Levarg Racing Group managed by John Craven which consists of many family members, Keayang Zahara (gate six) with Jason Lee in the sulky began safely from gate six as David Miles’ Rockinwithattitude (gate four) exploded

away to lead with ease. Taking over in the back straight on the first occasion, Keayang Zaraha coasted for the rest of the journey to register an untouched 11 metre victory over Rockinwithattitude, with Arcee Phoenix a game third a head away after racing exposed for the last mile.

In quarters of 31.4, 30.3, 27.7 and 26.9 after a lead time of 43.4 seconds, Keayang Zahara beaten only once in 23 outings returned a 1-56.8 mile rate looking set to win the $500,000 bonus for taking the three remaining races in the series – Cranbourne, Kilmore and Great Southern Star on February 14.

Loddon, Wedderburn

■ It was Wedderburn Pacing and Trotting Cup Day on Sunday January 25 with plenty of interest in the meeting.

The 2555 metre Pacing Cup going to 10Y0 Sportswriter-Our Crime Of Passion gelding Crime Writer bred and raced by Pam Coniglio and late husband Tony.

Trained at Ecklin South by Mattie Craven and driven by Hannah Lewis who won last years Mildura Pacing Cup on him Crime Writer began best from the pole to lead with Echuca Cup victor Madigan (outside the front line) outside him, Curyo Gentleman (gate two) one/one and the outsider Pas Guarantee following the leader from inside the second line. The favourite Pesci (extreme draw) had been eased to the tail of the field.

Looking vulnerable on turning with Madigan issuing a strong challenge, Crime Writer rallied in the straight to score by 3.9 metres from Madigan. with Curyo Gentleman angling three wide to challenge only

Raymond Island death

■ Police will prepare a report for the Coroner following the death of a man at Raymond Island on Sunday morning (Feb. 1).

Emergency services were called to Raymond Island about 4.30am after reports a man had fallen into the water from a boat which was approximately 30 metREs from shore.

Another occupant from the boat kept the man afloat until police arrived and he was brought to shore.

Emergency services performed CPR on the man but he could not be revived.

Norlane crash fatality

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Norlane

Emergency services were called to Barcelona St about 4.50am on Sunday (Feb. 1) after reports a motorcycle crashed into a parked car. The male rider was treated at the scene but died.

Burglary: 4 charged

■ Police have arrested four people following an aggravated burglary in Wantirna South on Saturday morning (Jan. 31)

It is alleged that four offenders entered a Wallace St property around 4am.

The residents, a woman and her three young children, were awoken by the

This Week

■ Wednesday – Maryborough/Mildura, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Bendigo, Saturday – Kilmore (Cup), Sunday –Cranbourne, Monday – Stawell, Tuesday Shepparton.

to go off stride, but probably wasn’t going to pick up the winner finishing 1.5 metres back third. Dhaulagiri ran on late out wide for third 5.1 metres away. The mile rate 200.7.

Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley and stable reinsman Tristan Larsen who has been on fire of late snared another provincial Trotters Cup with 8Y0 Simon Roydon-Johns Anne gelding Johns Boy successful.

Beginning fast 20 metres, Johns Boy avoided a couple of gallopers Romantic Nina and A Cool Investment shortly after the start to cross the poleline leader Im Above The Law and rated a treat, held too many guns for the hot favourite Meadow Valley Star (20m) which raced uncovered looking uncomfortable on the tight track. Im Above The Law using the sprint lane held third a half head away. The mile rate 2-07.1 (last half 61.3).

Len Baker

Latest News

sound of their vehicle being driven out of the driveway.

No one was physically injured during the incident.

Local police, with the support of Operation Trinity and the Critical Incident Response Team, conducted extensive patrols of the area and located a stolen vehicle on Mount Dandenong Rd in Croydon around 5am.

The vehicle attempted to avoid police, at which point stop sticks were deployed, immobilising the car.

The offenders fled and were arrested after a short foot pursuit

Croydon Divisional Response Unit and Crime Reduction Team charged the offenders with aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle.

A 15-year-old male and two 17-year-old males from the Yarra Ranges area and a 15-year-old from the Maroondah area were remanded to appear in a Children’s Court at a later date.

Car driven at officers

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a 37year-old man after it is alleged a car crashed into a school bus whilst attempting to evade police, then drove at officers in Newtown on Thursday (Jan. 29).

Police spotted the Kia Optima , allegedly stolen from NSW, near the intersection of Princes Hwy and Roebuck St about 3.40pm.

With Air Wing monitoring above, police units on the ground attempted to intercept the vehicle.

The Kia allegedly attempted to flee the scene and reversed into a school bus.

The occupants on the bus were not injured.

It is alleged the Kia then drove at police, where one officer discharged their firearm.

The Kia collided with another car before the two occupants fled on foot and were arrested nearby.

The female driver of the civilian vehicle was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Detectives charged the male driver, of no fixed address, with: ■ aggravated intentional exposure to emergency worker to risk by driving ■ 2 x conduct endangering serious injury

■ drive manner dangerous

■ criminal damage

■ theft of motor vehicle

■ bring stolen goods into Victoria

He was remanded in custody to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court.

Detectives also charged the passenger, a 43-yearold NSW woman, with handle stolen goods.

She was bailed to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on March 31. The investigation remains ongoing with Professional Standards Command oversight, as is standard practice when a police firearm is discharged.

Fire call at

Tarneit

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to an incident in Trinity Place, Tarneit at 6.33pm Friday after multiple callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a house fire. Crews arrived on scene within six minutes to find the two-storey brick home and attached garage fully involved in fire.

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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. ALUMINIUM PUNT. 4 metre, with all required safety equipment with relocatable folding seats plus 77.5hp Mercury outboard motor. GC. $1600. Seymour. 0410 032 064. NN-QQ

prices. Marysville. 0417 337 424.F-I

DISPLAY CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid display advertising available for $20 per column centimetre. Sample prices: Full-Page Ad (37cm h x 8 cols w), $5920. Half-Page Ad (18cm h x 8 cols w), $2880. Quarter-Page Ad (18cm h x 4 cols w), $1440. All ads are pre-paid at the time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

LINE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid line adverising is available for $20 for first 20 words, then $1 per word thereafter. All ads are prepaid at the time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

STATEWIDE, MELBOURNEWIDE

Classified Ads are read across Victoria, included in all online (digital) editionsof The Local Paper and Melbourne Observer. Fresh online editions are published weekly on Wednesdays, February-December (with exception of Easter Wednesday). You can have Digital Editions emailed free to you - register at www. FreePaper.com.au Print editions are published fortnightly on Wednesdays, February-December.

ONLINE EDITION DATES - 2026

Go directly to www.LocalPaper.com.au or www. MelbourneObserver.com.au to read digital editions (exact replicas of print editions), free. Online edition dates in 2026 are: Feb. 4, Feb. 11, Feb. 18, Feb. 25, Mar. 4, Mar. 11, Mar. 18, Mar. 25, Apr. 1, Apr. 15, Apr. 22, Apr. 29, May 6, May 13, May 20, May 27, Jun. 3, Jun. 10, Jun. 17, Jun. 24, Jul. 1, Jul. 8, Jul. 15, Jul. 22, Jul. 29, Aug. 5, Aug. 12, Aug. 19, Aug. 26, Sep. 2, Sep. 9, Sep. 16, Sep. 23, Sep. 30, Oct. 7, Oct. 14, Oct. 21, Oct. 28, Nov. 4, Nov. 11, Nov. 18, Nov. 25, Dec. 2, Dec. 9. Lodge ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION DATES - 2026

‘Hard copies’ are available free through a network of outlets across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas. Print edition dates in 2026 are: Feb. 4, Feb. 18, Mar. 4, Mar. 18, Apr. 1, Apr. 15, Apr. 29, May 13, May 27, Jun. 10, Jun. 24, Jul. 8, Jul. 22, Aug. 5, Aug. 19, Sep. 2, Sep. 16, Sep. 30, Oct. 14, Oct. 28, Nov. 11, Nov. 25, Dec. 9. Lodge your ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION AREAS

Eastern Suburbs Edition. Boroondara (north), Knox-Sherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse. Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition. Healesville, Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Warburton. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Avenel, Beveridge, Broadford, Euroa, Kilmore, Longwood, Nagambie, Seymour, Violet Town, Wallan, Wandong-Heathcote Junction.

North-West Edition. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley, Moorabool, Wyndham. Northern Suburbs Edition. Banyule, Darebin (north - Preston, Reservoir), Darebin (south - Northcote, Thornbury), Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban). Regional Edition. Mansfield, Murrindindi (Alexandra, Kinglake, Yea), Nillumbik (rural), Whittlesea (rural). Southern Cross Weekly Edition. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra. South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula.

HANDY

HINTS

■ Effective classified ads require a, punchy, keyword-rich headline, clear, concise descriptions focusing on benefits rather than just features, and highquality visuals. Use, urgent, compelling calls-to-action and relevant, honest details to maximize response rates and build trust.

■ Catchy Headline: The first few words are critical; use, strong, descriptive words to grab attention.

■ Clear, Concise Copy: Keep it simple, factual, and to the point. Focus on what the reader gains.

■ High-Quality Visuals: Use clear, well-lit, multi-angle photos or videos to showcase the item, as this significantly boosts engagement.

■ Strategic Keywords: Use relevant, searchable terms that users are likely to type when looking for your product.

IMPRINT

ready to make payment.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Form 2

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

The application reference number is: P25/1533

The Land affected by the application is located at: 5 THE HEADS MOUNT MARTHA LOT 337 PS 401619 VOL 10673 FOL 591

The application is for a permit to: DEVELOPMENT OF A DOUBLE STOREY DWELLING AND VARIATION OF COVENANT AC677651P ON LOT 337 ON PLAN OF SUBDIVISION 401619S, VOLUME 10673 FOLIO 591 BY AMENDING RESTRICTIONS 1, 5, 6, 8 AND 16 AS FOLLOWS (UNDERLINED = ADDITIONAL WORDING TO BE ADDED; STRIKETHROUGH = DELETION OF WORDS):

1. ERECT OR BUILD OR SUFFER TO BE ERECTED OR BUILT ON ANY LOT OR ANY PART OR PARTS THEREOF MORE THAN ONE PRIVATE DWELLING (TOGETHER WITH ASSOCIATED OUTBUILDINGS) UNLESS COPIES OF BUILDING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS SHOWING ELEVATION, SITING, SET BACKS, COLOURS, MATERIALS, LANDSCAPING DESIGN, AND FENCING HAVE FIRST BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE TRANSFEROR OR TO THE HEADLAND WATERS REVIEW PANEL AND THE TRANSFEROR OR THE HEADLAND WATERS REVIEW PANEL HAVE GIVEN THEIR APPROVAL TO THE PLANS PRIOR TO THE ISSUE OF BUILDING PERMITS. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE SINGLE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

5. ALLOW ANY DWELLING OR OTHER BUILDING TO BE BUILT OUTSIDE THE NOMINATED BUILDING ENVELOPE, UNLESS IT IS A BELOW GROUND STRUCTURE. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

6. CONSTRUCT OR ERECT A DWELLING OR OTHER TYPE OF BUILDING, UNLESS IT IS WITHIN THE THREE-DIMENSIONAL BUILDING ENVELOPE ON TITLE, AS DESCRIBED IN ATTACHMENT “A” TO BE TRANSFERRED WITH TITLE. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

8. ALLOW THE MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF ANY STRUCTURE TO EXCEED THE MAXIMUM HEIGHT CONTROL AS DETAILED IN THE THREE DIMENSIONAL BUILDING ENVELOPE ON TITLE. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

16. PERMIT ANY SWIMMING POOL, OUTDOOR SPA OR WADING POOL TO BE CONSTRUCTED WHERE IT WOULD BE VISIBLE FROM A ROAD WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE SWIMMING POOL LOCATION NOTED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533 AND IS NOT SEPARATELY FENCED RESTRICTING MINORS.

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSEMATTERS FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

CLAUSE 52.02

CLAUSE 43.02-2 (DDO 3)

VARY A RESTRICTION

CONSTRUCT A BUILDING OR CONSTRUCT OR CARRY OUT WORKS (DWELLING)

The applicant for the permit is: TIMBERDALE PTY LTD

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 16 FEBRUARY 2026

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

PUBLIC NOTICES

Packaged liquor licence application

Midas Food Industry Pty Ltd (Trade name: Fresh Central Fruits) applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 6 January 2026 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at 209 High Street, Ashburton VIC 3147.

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that: it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated; and/or it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents.

Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria GPO Box 4356 Melbourne VIC 3001

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

Advertise in The Local Paper Classifieds

It Buy It Sell It Swap It Rent It

Buying and selling, promoting a business, advertising a job vacancy, or publishing a Public Notice, you can do it all in The Local Paper Classifieds

You can reach people in every Melbourne suburb, across the Mornington Peninsula, and in selected Victorian country areas. In print AND online.

It’s economical too. Line ads start at just $20 for 20 words, then $1 per word. Or create impact with a display ad. Speak with an Ad-visor by phoning 9489 2222.

We Luca & Amy Pty Ltd applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 13/08/2025 for the variation of a packaged liquor licence for Foodworks Wantirna South-Knoxgate of 1324 High St Road, Wantirna South VIC 3152 to vary the trading hours to:

• Sunday Between 10am and 11pm

• Anzac Day Between 12 noon and 11pm

• On any other day Between 9am and 11pm

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:

• it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or

• it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents.

Objections must be made in writing to:

Liquor Control Victoria GPO Box 4356, Melbourne VIC 3001

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

PROPOSAL TO INSTALL A MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION ON THE EXISTING MONOPOLE AT MICKLEHAM VIC 3064

1. Telstra is proposing to install a mobile phone base station on the existing 40m Monopole at 2238 MICKLEHAM ROAD, MICKLEHAM, VIC 3064

2. In summary, this upgrade will comprise of:

• Installing (9) 4G/5G Panel Antennas on a new headframe on the monopole

• Installing ancillary equipment

• There will be no increase in height to the facility

3. We invite you to provide your feedback or request further information by contacting us at: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422 685 472, PO BOX 586, Elsternwick VIC 3185, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au. We will accept submissions until 5pm on Thursday 19th of February 2026.

4. For more information, please visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3064026

Telstra Limited A.C.N 086 174 781 Acquirecomm Pty Ltd A.C.N: 603 876 240

Local government in Victoria has been in operation for over 180 years, with its foundations dating back to the early 1840s.

From 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?

Does your local Council advertise locally? Does it hide its ads in the daily newspapers - at unnecessary expense?

Smart Councils use The Local Paper to best serve local people.

Shooting at Cobden

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a man following a shooting in Cobden.

The 26-year-old was arrested with the assistance of the Special Operations Group outside an address in Terang Detectives seized ammunition and a taser following the execution of a warrant and subsequent search of the Swanston St property.

The Cobden man has been charged with intentionally and recklessly cause injury, reckless conduct endanger serious injury, use firearm contrary to firearm prohibition order, prohibited person possess firearm, possess ammunition and prohibited weapon, commit indicatable offence whilst on bail and drive whilst disqualified.

He was remanded to appear at Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court on May 15.

The charges follow an investigation into an incident on Tuesday, January 20, where a woman was found injured at a Mitchell St home in Cobden about 6pm.

The 33-year-old woman was treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot injury.

Those involved are known to one another, Police said.

Blitz on Peninsula

■ Police on the Mornington Peninsula have fined 94 jet ski riders and boaties during a dedicated operation over the past two months.

Officers on boats, jet skis and at the controls of drones identified riders engaging in acts such as operating too close to shore, speeding in restricted zones close to swimmers, and riding unlicensed or unsupervised.

Some 17 fines were issued for operating a vessel exceeding 5knots within 200m of the water’s edge, while one was caught too close to a structure in inland waters.

Three people were fined for speeding within 50 metres of swimmers.

Among those caught were:

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT UPPER PLENTY

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station tower at 1480 Wallan-Whittlesea Road, Upper Plenty VIC 3756.

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of the removal of (3) three existing panel antennas with the installation of (6) six new 4G/5G panel antennas (2533 x 350 x 208mm) 30m above ground level. This upgrade also includes the Installation of associated auxiliary

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

4. Please direct comments to Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra at planning.vic@servicestream.com.au, 0477 962 725 or by post to: Service Stream (Wireless) - Level 11, 2 Wentworth Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150 by 5pm Wednesday 18 February 2026.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3756001

Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46 072 369 870 Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781

$400,000 robbery

■ Boroondara Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after more than $400,000 of paintings and jewellery were stolen from a woman’s home in Kew.

The victim’s brother attended the property on December 28 and noticed the front door off its hinges and a number of items missing. It is believed unknown offender/s attended the Stevenson St property several times and stolen paintings, jewellery and other property worth in excess of $400,000.

The items are believed to have been stolen between December 24, 2024, and December 28, 2025 while the victim was away from the residence for an extended period.

Items stolen include:

■ a John Percivil ‘Sunflowers’ painting worth more than $75,000

■ three Criss Canning paintings worth between $30,000 and $50,000 each

■ two antique Chinese paintings worth more than $10,000 each

■ a pearl strand worth more than $50,000

Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have noticed suspicious activity in the area or recognises any of the items stolen to come forward.

‘P’ driver blows .213

■ A P2 probationary licenced driver has lost his licence and had his car impounded after blowing more than four times the legal limit in Maddingley on Friday, January 23.

Police were called to reports of a silver MG hatch driving erratically on the Western Fwy in Melton South about 9.40pm. Officers intercepted the vehicle a short time later and spoke with the driver on Stonehill Drive in Maddingley.

The 23-year-old driver returned a positive preliminary breath test and was taken to a police station where he returned an alleged evidentiary reading of .213.

■ A 23-year-old man from Jacana was allegedly caught speeding on a jet ski too close to swimmers, whilst unlicensed. He was issued an infringement notice for operating a vessel without a marine licence, operating a vessel at a speed exceeding 5 knots within 50 metres of a person, and operating a vessel without compulsory safety equipment. He was fined $1679.

■ A 16-year-old boy from the northern suburbs was intercepted by police after alleged dangerous behaviour on a jet ski at Safety Beach. Checks revealed the boy was operating a hired vessel and allegedly failed to provide police with information on the owner of the jet ski. He was fined $1113 for exceeding 5 knots within 50 metres of a person and 200m of the shore.

These riders are among almost 90 fined, with other issues identified including not carrying the correct safety equipment and being onboard the watercraft while being towed on land.

The man’s licence was immediately suspended for a period of 12 months and he is expected to be charged on summons with several traffic offences.

His vehicle was also impounded for 30 days at a cost $1175.

The impound forms part of Operation Amity , a statewide road policing operation.

Athlone fatality

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash at Athlone on the afternoon of Australia Day (Mon., Jan. 26). A vehicle was travelling along Invermay Rd when it struck a tree about 5.20pm.

The female driver, who was the sole occupant, died at the scene. Officers will prepare a report for the coroner.

Anyone who witnessed the crash, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au