The Local Paper. Peninsula-Frankston-Greater Dandenong-Casey-Cardinia Edition. Wed., Mar. 25, 2026

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026

GOVT APPROVAL FOR CRANBOURNE PLAN

■ The State Government has announced the Croskell (Employment) Precinct Structure Plan has been approved, unlocking approximately 317 hectares of land near Cranbourne for development.

Bounded by Thompsons Rd to the north, Berwick-Cranbourne Rd to the east and Narre Warren-Cranbourne Rd to the west, the precinct expects to see over 6800 local jobs, and 600 new homes in Casey City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said the Victorian Planning Authority had led the delivery of this Plan, in partnership with the City of Casey and other agencies.

“The Croskell Precinct has been identified as a regionally significant employment area, and the PSP guides the future development of the area," he said. “This Plan will see increased local job opportunities and reduce the need for long commutes to get to work. With 600 new homes planned, it will also contribute to housing demand and access to affordable options. Although Council was not the lead agency for this work, we have actively collaborated with the Victorian Government to ensure our key priorities have been included in the PSP

FOCUS ON FOOD, AGRIBUSINESS

■ Cardinia Shire Council has appointed 10 community representatives to its newly formed Food and Agribusiness Advisory Committee to help guide the future of the shire’s food and agribusiness sector.

The committee members were officially appointed at the Council meeting on Monday last week (Mar. 16) and will work alongside Crs David Nickell and Trudi Paton, as well as Council staff, to steer the committee and help strengthen the sector.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Brett Owen said the committee brought together members with diverse backgrounds and experience across the sector, providing a strong mix of perspectives and expertise.

“From farmers, food industry leaders and manufacturers to technical experts and hands-on practitioners, the committee will play an important role in informing Council's vision for food and agribusiness across the shire,” Cr Owen said. “The committee will provide strategic advice, identify emerging trends and challenges, advocate for industry needs, and strengthen connections between Council and key stakeholders across the sector.”

■ A Mount Martha woman who entered a charity raffle after being diagnosed with breast cancer has received the surprise of a lifetime, winning the First Prize Pack worth $300,000 in last week’s Play For Purpose draw.

The $300,000 First Prize Pack from Play For Purpose Raffle 30, drawn Monday (Mar. 16), included a BMW X3 20 xDrive valued at $99,193.85, a Mini Countryman C valued at $60,245.10 and $140,561.05 of gold bullion.

The local womab struggled to hold back the tears upon hearing the news that she scored the First Prize Pack. It was the Mornington Peninsula woman’s first ever Play For Purpose ticket, which she purchased at playforpurpose.com.au in support of Breast Cancer Network Australia

Kingston takes on aged care

■ Older people within Frankston City Council will continue to receive care and support, with Kingston Council’s aged care service to take on selected services for Frankston City’s Commonwealth Home Support Program clients.

The transition will take place on July 1, providing stability and continuity for older residents who rely on these essential services.

Services which may be supplied include personal care, domestic assistance, respite care, social support individual (escorted shopping) and home maintenance and modifications.

AccessCare, Kingston Council’s aged care service, has been supporting local seniors for more than 30 years and is said to be widely respected for delivering high-quality, person-centred care.

Transition

AccessCare will step in to ensure a smooth transition for Frankston City Council clients, who will continue to receive their current care and will also gain access to the Support at Home program which offers flexible higher levels of care as needs change over time.

Frankston City Council announced last November that it would withdraw from delivering selected CHSP services as part of its aged care support. These changes align with national aged care reforms, which are changing how aged care services are funded and delivered across Australia

While Kingston will take on selected Commonwealth Home Support Program services across Frankston City, Frankston City Council will continue to deliver key services including delivered meals (Meals on Wheels), group social support (outings program) and community transport.

Both councils say they are committed to ensuring local seniors continue to have access to trusted, high-quality care to help support them stay in their homes as long as possible.

Meaningful

Frankston Mayor, Cr Sue Baker, said: “Frankston Council remains strongly committed to supporting older residents and will continue to play a meaningful role into the future,” Cr Baker said. “We’re so pleased that another trusted local government provider will continue to provide vital care, support and respect to our older residents.”

Kingston City Council Mayor, Cr Georgina Oxley, said: “AccessCare has been delivering high quality aged care for more than 30 years, and we are proud to extend that trusted support to older people in Frankston City ,” Cr Oxley said.

“Our focus is on providing a stable, caring transition and making sure seniors continue to receive the wonderful care they deserve.”

Frankston City Council’s dedicated Community Care Transition Team has been established to support clients through the change– which can be as simple as transferring their service to AccessCare

Frankston City Council’s Aged Care staff are encouraged to apply for new roles at AccessCare to help provide continuity of care.

Weapons seized at Skye

■ Carrum Downs uniform officers have charged two men following a search warrant at a property in Skye which allegedly uncovered drugs, gel blaster handguns, stolen mopeds and a jet ski.

Police executed a search warrant at a property on McCormicks Rd on Tuesday (Mar. 17) about 10am.

Five people were present inside the property and two men were taken into custody.

Officers searched the residence and the following items were seized:

■ approximately 30g of methylamphetamine

■ approximately 1kg of cannabis

■ ketamine and amphetamine

■ prescription medication

■ 2 x gel blaster handguns

■ 2 x tasers

■ 1 x crossbow

■ stolen tools/property

■ over $2000 cash

■ 2 x suspected stolen e-bikes

■ 1 x suspected stolen trailer

■ 1 x suspected stolen jet ski

■ 2 x suspected stolen mopeds

Both a 31-year-old and 54-year-old man were charged with an array of offences including drug possession, possession of prohibited weapons, and property offences. They were bailed to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on June 5.

Mordi ‘pumping’

■ Mordialloc Railway Station will open on May 21, local MLA Tim Richardson has told State Parliament.

“This is a massive milestone for our community as we remove the level crossings in Mordialloc and build a brand new train station,” Mr Richardson said.

“It was this Labor government who committed to making the Frankston train line level crossing free by 2029.

“I remember standing with the Premier and announcing how we would get rid of Aspendale’s Station St level crossing near Mordialloc College , another great school in our area, and also the level crossings at Bear St and McDonald St.

“This is all about making sure we can get our communities home safer and sooner.

“We have transformed the Frankston train line with the city loop returning just recently with the opening of the Metro rail tunnel.

“Level crossings from Chelsea, Edithvale, Parkdale, Mentone and Cheltenham have been removed by this Labor Government and brand new train stations built.

“The excitement across Mordialloc as we transform our community for the better has been palpable.

“We had Mordi Fest, with people connecting to services, supporting our traders and getting out and about in what we love in our community. But these level crossings have divided us.

“They have taken time away. They have stopped you from getting home safer and sooner to your community.

“Well, that will change: on May 21 those level crossings will be gone and we will have a brand new train station.

“We will have some works over that time, three weeks of construction works, but we are pumped. We are up and about.

“Mordialloc has never been better, and it only gets better for the future,” Mr Richardson said.

100 Murals on show at Frankston

■ The streets of Frankston featured new street art murals - 100 murals in total across the city centre following this year’s ninth annual festival.

Among the artists were:

■ Sam Kim ‘SamAbsurd’ , who runs workshops for troubled youth

■ Arina Apostolova, Ukrainian migrant who won last year’s People’s Choice Award

■ Neryl Walker, best known for her nostalgic 1950s-inspired female figures

There was a new Street Art Studio pop-up space inside Bayside Shopping Centre

Free street art workshops were held for young creatives last Saturday (Mar. 21)at the Frankston Library forecourt.

Featured artists included: Arina Apostolova, Buff Diss, Creature Creature, Father Marker, Jack Rowland, Juzpop, Kitsune Jolene, Mick Russell, Sam Absurd and Shaun Devenney

Relegated to No. 2

■ South-Eastern Metropolitan MLC Ann-Marie Hermans lost the top Liberal spot to Phillip Pease , a former staffer to moderate ex-MP Matthew Bach , but managed to retain the second position on the ballot after fending off a challenge from Manju Hanumantharayappa , The Age reports.

Landslide latest

■ Agreement has been reached with some McCrae landslide-affected residents during the mediation process, and Mornington Peninsula Shire and South East Water both consider that this will facilitate critical works to be undertaken, and provide a pathway for residents to return to their homes.

“In close consultation with the most affected residents, the design of these critical works is being progressed,” said a statement from the Shire and the authority.

“While the formal mediation process has now concluded, Mornington Peninsula Shire and South East Water are both committed to ongoing engagement to address remaining issues.

“The Shire and South East Water both wish to thank the mediators, Dan Star KC and Glen Pauline, and the residents of McCrae for the productive discussions, which they are both committed to continuing,” the statement said.

Rezoning review

■ City of Casey Councillors have decided to refer a proposed rezoning of land in Cranbourne to an independent planning panel, ensuring community feedback is considered before any decisions are made.

Councillors also voted to strengthen environmental protections linked to the proposal given its proximity to former landfill sites, should development be considered in the future.

The proposal relates to land at 39-45 and 40-46 Cyril Beechey Lane, currently zoned for farming.

57 years. Since 1969.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026

Police Rounds

Fatal truck crash

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal truck crash in Maroona

Emergency services were called to Mortlake-Ararat Rd about 7.50pm Thursday (Mar. 19) after reports a truck had left the road and crashed.

Crews attempted to treat the male driver at the scene but he could not be revived.

Investigations are ongoing into the circumstances of the crash.

Sexual offences

■ Sale Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team have charged a man following an investigation into a series of sexually related offences.

A 36-year-old has been charged with stalking, offensive behaviour, sexual activity directed at another person, involve child in production of child abuse material and possess child abuse material.

It is alleged the incidents involved a male in a vehicle approaching people and exposing himself between January and March of this year in Sale, Briagolong and Stratford

Sale SOCIT executed a search warrant at a residential home where they seized a motor vehicle and other items.

The Sale man was remanded to appear at Sale Magistrates’ Court

Jung homicide

■ Detectives from the Homicide Squad have charged a man as part of the investigation into the death of a man in Jung

The 49-year-old man has been charged with one count of murder.

The charge follows an incident where emergency services were called to reports of a man’s body located off the Henty Hwy near Finlayson Rd at about 9.15am.

The deceased man was believed to be aged in his 80s.

On Monday evening (Mar. 16), police located a man behaving erratically on Firebrace St in Horsham around 8.30pm.

Officers negotiated with the man who was armed with a knife before he was arrested about 11pm.

The Minyip man was remanded to appear at Horsham Magistrates’ Court

House fire death

■ Arson and Explosives Squad detectives are investigating after a body was located following a house fire in Greensborough

Emergency services were called to reports of a house on fire on Jessop St on Monday (Mar. 16) about 1.30pm.

Fire crews extinguished the blaze which completely destroyed the property.

Investigators located the body of a deceased person inside the premises and a crime scene has been established.

The investigation is ongoing.

Constable charged

■ A detective leading senior constable from Eastern Region has been charged following an internal investigation.

The 56-year-old man has been charged with one count of make false report.

The charge relates to an alleged collision on May 31 last year while the officer was off-duty. He was charged on summons to appear before a magistrates’ court at a later date.

■ Detectives from the Financial Crime Squad have charged a man as part of an investigation into a $20M extortion linked to the property development industry and organised crime, which included an arson attack on a Glen Iris property.

A search warrant was executed at a residential address in Caulfield

A 50-year-old Caulfield man has since been charged with three counts of extortion, blackmail and possess cocaine.

The man was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

Following a number of property development dealings, police will allege two victims began receiving threatening calls and messages from an international number.

The messages allegedly demanded payment of $20M and $250,000 respectively. It will be alleged threats were also made to burn down the victim’s house.

Police and emergency services responded to a fire in Glen Iris on Saturday, March 14.

Truck overturns

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal truck crash which occurred in Meredith . Emergency services were called to Slate Quarry Rd after reports a truck had overturned. Crews attempted to treat the driver at the scene but he could not be revived. Work Safe were notified of the incident.

$20 MIL. EXTORTION: POLICE LAY CHARGES MACHINE GUN FOUND AT LARA

Buggy stolen

■ Police are investigating after a stolen buggy rammed a police vehicle in Moorooduc . It is understood a blue sedan arrived at a business on Moorooduc Hwy about 5.40am. on Monday (Mar. 16). Offenders allegedly got out of the vehicle, forced entry into the premises and stole an industrial buggy.

The buggy fled the scene and travelled a short distance, in convoy with the blue car. Patrolling officers spotted the vehicles on Bentons Rd , where they both came to a stop.

Officers were told two Molotov cocktails were thrown into two townhouses just before 4am.

One Molotov cocktail landed in the driveway of one townhouse and the second one hit the porch area of the other, causing it to catch fire. The premises sustained minor damage.

The occupants inside at the time were not physically injured during the incident.

Police will allege the man involved had engaged the services of a man based offshore to recuperate what he said were debts owed to him.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Crime Watch 800 cloning devices

■ Victoria Police seized 800 key cloning devices from prolific car thieves last year, as new intelligence estimates more than 10,000 vehicles are stolen using this technology each year.

Motor vehicle theft has escalated markedly in Victoria in recent years, with the latest Crime Statistics Agency data showing 33,212 vehicles were stolen in the year to end of September 2025.

This has directly coincided with a surge in car thieves using key mimicking or cloning technology to override car security systems.

Victoria Police intelligence shows well over a quarter of all cars are now likely to be stolen in this manner.

Popular makes and models with push start ignitions are being targeted in ever increasing numbers – disappearing from residential streets or other community locations without any other offence, such as a robbery, burglary or carjacking occurring.

Most commonly in these thefts, the owner reported to police they retained the keys, and their car had simply vanished.

For example, 846 Toyota Land-cruiser s were stolen last year in circumstances suggesting technological theft was likely. In 2024, 241 Landcruisers disappeared in this fashion, while three years ago there were only 89 in this way.

Toyota Corollas, Hiluxs, and Rav 4s are also among the most targeted vehicles by tech savvy thieves, as well as Holden Commodores and Subaru Imprezas

Victoria Police continues to work with impacted manufacturers in relation to this issue.

The hardest hit suburbs for technology driven car thefts last year were Melbourne, Dandenong, Tarneit, Narre Warren, St Albans, Craigieburn, Southbank, Reservoir, Truganina and Epping

Other hotspots in early 2026 include Berwick, Malvern East, Clayton and Glen Waverley

3D-PRINTED PARTS

■ A man has been charged with 12 firearms and drugs offences after a machine gun, drugs and 3D-printed firearms parts were seized at a Lara property on Wednesday (Mar. 18).

Following a thorough and ongoing investigation into the alleged manufacturing of illicit firearms, detectives from the Illicit Firearms Squad and the Geelong Crime Investigation Unit executed a search warrant at a Lara residence on March 18.

Detectives arrested a 47-year-old man allegedly manufacturing and storing firearms at the residence.

During the search, officers seized items including:

■ a machine gun with ammunition

■ a silencer

■ a 3D printed handgun

■ a replica handgun

■ a 3d printer

■ drugs of dependence

The man has been charged with firearms offences including possession of a traffickable quantity of firearms, prohibited person possess a silencer, prohibited person possess imitation firearm, possess equipment for manufacture Firearms and possess ammunition without licence.

He was also charged with drugs offences.

The 47-year-old was remanded to appear before the Geelong Magistrates’ Court.

In response to this issue, Victoria Police continues to regularly arrest prolific car thieves while also seizing 800 key cloning or reprogramming devices last year.

Victoria Police also recovers around 80 per cent of all vehicles stolen each year.

Police are urging owners of vehicles to look at a range of preventative measures to help deter thieves, including an on-board diagnostic port lock which prevents an offender connecting a reprogramming device to your vehicle. These locks are highly affordable and self-installable.

Other security tips include parking your vehicle off the street and always ensuring your vehicle is locked, even when at home.

Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Bob Hill said: “Our intelligence estimates as many as 30 cars are being stolen using key cloning technology in Victoria every day.

“Police are targeting the most prolific car thieves, which continues to lead to quick arrests.

“Key cloning devices are showing up more and more frequently at search warrants and during intercepts of suspicious vehicles. There is no doubt this methodology is rife in the criminal world and as a community, we need to work together to reduce car theft. The best thing you can do is park your car off the street and install anti-theft devices, such as OBD port locks, to reduce your chances of falling victim.”

BRISBANE Airport incident

■ A Queensland man ws expected to appear in Brisbane Magistrates’ Court charged with obstructing police and behaving in a disorderly manner at Brisbane Airport

The AFP responded to a request for assistance on February 11, after the Mackay region man, 40, was allegedly aggressive towards an airport staff member in the Brisbane Domestic Airport terminal.

When approached by AFP officers, the man allegedly refused to follow requests or instructions, and was arrested.

On February 12, he was released from police custody and issued a notice to appear to face the following charges:

■ One count of assault or obstruct police;

■ One count of public nuisance.

Maximum penalty for each offence is six months imprisonment.

AFP Acting Superintendent Kurt Wesche said there was zero tolerance for abusive behaviour in airports.

Brisbane Sun

CANBERRA

Stepchild assault

■ ACT Policing’s Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Team has arrested a 32year-old man following an investigation into allegations he sexually assaulted his stepdaughter.

Police will allege the man committed multiple assaults against the child at their residence in Molonglo Valley between 2022 and 2023.

Earlier this month, police received a report regarding the assaults and commenced an investigation. The man was arrested outside Belconnen Police Station . He was to face the ACT Magistrates’ Court on Friday (Mar. 20) charged with two counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 10 and one count of act of indecency with a child under 10.

Canberra Observer

EXTRADITED TO MELBOURNE BY POLICE FROM TASMANIA

■ Detectives from Taskforce Hawk have today charged a fourth man as part of an investigation into blackmail.

With assistance from Tasmania Police investigators and specialist resources, a 42year-old Maribyrnong man was taken into custody in New Norfolk around 11am on Tuesday (Mar. 17).

Detectives from Taskforce Hawk then flew to Tasmania t o apply for the man’s extradition. He has since been charged with blackmail.

The man, believed to be a patched member of the Bandidos OMCG, was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court later today after his extradition.

A 36-year-old Lalor man was charged on March 4 with blackmail, eight counts of possess anabolic steroids and unauthorised person possess Schedule 4 poison.

A notice of suspension and proposal to cancel the man’s firearms licence was also served under the Firearms Act

Four registered firearms, steroids, peptides and electronic devices were seized from his address.

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

Investigators will allege the man facilitated the blackmail by engaging an OMCG member to carry it out.

A 32-year-old Eltham man was charged on February 12 with blackmail and fail to comply direction to assist (fail to provide pin code).

He was further on February 26 charged with two counts of contravene conduct condition of bail.

He will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 18.

A 32-year-old Watsonia man was charged on February 12 with fail to comply direction to assist (fail to provide pin code).

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

Taskforce Hawk was established to

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cifically target the infiltration of serious and organised crime and outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCGs) into major Victorian Government infrastructure projects and the construction industry.

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

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

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

Detective Acting Inspector Randeep Atwal, Taskforce Hawk , said: “ Taskforce Hawk will investigate any and all criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry – be that extortions, arsons, serious violent offending, blackmail or threatening and harassing communications.

“We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to intimidate and harass people who simply want to be able to go to work and perform their job to the best of their ability.

“Irrespective of where you are in the country, we will continue to work with our partner agencies to ensure that those who think they are above the law are held to account for their criminal behaviour.

“We would encourage anyone that has any information on concerning behaviours witnessed in any construction industry work speplace to come forward and speak to police. As always, it can be done anonymously and reports will be treated with the strictest of confidence,” Det. A/Insp. Atwal said.

VICTOR HARBOR

Melbourne Observer

Ammo seized

■ A man has been arrested after police uncovered a significant amount of stolen property at a home near Victor Harbor.

Police attended a property at Hayborough on Monday (Mar. 16) and conducted a search. Police will allege a large quantity of stolen goods were located, along with illegal ammunition, a high-powered laser, weapons and drugs.

During the search, police also located a vintage car buried in the backyard that had been reported stolen earlier this year.

A 38-year-old man from the address was arrested and charged with numerous offences, including unlawful possession, possessing ammunition without a licence and possessing a prohibited weapon.

He was refused bail and appeared in the Victor Harbor Magistrates Court on Tuesday, March 17, where he was remanded in custody.

A number of items seized during the search have since been returned to their owners, however, police are seeking assistance from the public to identify the owners of three bicycles.

Investigations are ongoing and anyone with information is encouraged to anonymously contact Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or by calling 1800 333 000.

Adelaide Sun

Across Australia

SYDNEY

Meth in bottles

■ A Malaysian -national was set to appear in Downing Centre Local Court on Friday (Mar. 20) after allegedly attempting to import 5kg of methamphetamine into Australia

The man, 66, arrived at Sydney Airport on an international flight from Thailand . Australian Border Force officers identified the man and sent him for a baggage examination, with x-ray screening of his suitcase suggesting anomalies in it.

An ABF detector dog gave a positive reaction to the luggage, and a subsequent baggage search located 10 bottles, labelled as scented powder, each allegedly containing methamphetamine.

Australian Federal Police officers responded and subsequently charged the man with one count of attempting to import a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

AFP investigators seized the man’s two mobile phones for forensic examination. It will be alleged the man told police he was recruited through social media to courier the suitcase from Thailand to Australia in exchange for payment.

He was refused bail to appear in Downing Centre Local Court

Detective Acting Superintendent Trevor Robinson said the AFP continues to work closely with partners like ABF to ensure dangerous drugs never reach Australian communities.

“The AFP continues to target every level of these criminal networks — from organisers offshore to the individuals recruited to act as couriers,” Det-a/Supt Robinson said.

“Five kilograms of methamphetamine has the potential to cause significant harm to the community. Every kilogram we seize represents lives protected and harm prevented.

“Anyone considering transporting items for people they do not know, or agreeing to suspicious travel arrangements, should understand they may be putting themselves at serious legal risk. If you are caught carrying illicit drugs into Australia, you will be arrested and charged.”

ABF Superintendent Elke West said methamphetamine was an incredibly destructive, highly-addictive drug that rips apart families and causes untold harm in our communities every day.

“Our ABF officers are exceptionally skilled at identifying those seeking to bring drugs into Australia and remain committed to targeting and dismantling the supply chains that bring methamphetamine into our communities,” Supt West said.

“This detection is a clear warning to all travellers who attempt to bypass our border controls – we will intercept you, and together with our law enforcement partners, ensure you are brought before the courts.”

Sydney Mail

DONCASTER

Pedestrian struck

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after a woman was killed in a collision in Doncaster East

It is believed an 87-year-old Doncaster East woman, was fatally struck by a garbage truck on Hamilton Crescent about 2pm Monday (Mar. 23).

The driver of the truck was located a short distance away and is helping police with their enquiries.

The circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established.

Melbourne Observer PERTH

Traffic stop

■ Two men have been charged for their alleged roles in a plot to traffic 24kg of methamphetamine and 3.5kg of heroin inside a vehicle driven from South Australia to Western Australia

Both men were charged with drug possession offences after a traffic stop. Perth Observer

Raids at Doveton, Seaford

■ Detectives from the Vehicle Crime Squad have charged a man for his role in an international syndicate allegedly stealing high end Toyotas and exporting them to the United Arab Emirates for profit.

Following a year long investigation, it will be alleged the syndicate began operating in Victoria before they were disrupted, moving to Queensland in October last year and reestablishing themselves there.

Victoria Police provided intelligence to Queensland Police Service who commenced an investigation under Operation Xray Lox

Police intelligence suggests the syndicate stole more than 150 vehicles worth over $20M from Victoria, before relocating them to Queensland where another 60 vehicles were stolen.

It is believed many of these vehicles were stolen by accessing the vehicle’s on-board computers via the vehicle’s wiring.

Four search warrants were executed Thursday morning (Mar. 19) at residential addresses in Doveton (3) and Seaford

A 27-year-old Doveton man has since been charged with conspiracy to commit theft of motor vehicle, theft of motor vehicle and handle stolen goods in relation to 46 incidents allegedly committed between August and September 2025. He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, March 26. Investigators

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

Update ‘transparent’

■

“providing

seized three motor vehicles, multiple electronic devices and business and banking records from the addresses.

Police will allege the man was using a commercial premises in Cranbourne West as a base of operations where the stolen vehicles were placed into shipping containers.

The shipping containers are then transported to the Port of Melbourne, headed for the UAE . Investigators believe the companies moving the shipping containers were doing so without the knowledge of what was inside.

The investigation remains ongoing with additional charges expected to be laid.

Police are urging owners to install anti-theft measures such as on-board diagnostic port locks, while continuing to engage with impacted manufacturers and insurers to help prevent this from occurring.

Victoria Police reminds vehicle owners to lock their car doors and windows to deter opportunistic thieves, and where possible, park in well-lit areas. For added security consider using steering locks and secure your keys when not in use.

A full list of antitheft measures can be found on the Victoria Police website, with a range of auto shops and websites stocking anti-theft products.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crime stoppersvic.com.au

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Lime

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

Lotto Numbers: 1-2-12-24-36-44

A period in which an impulsive act could change your outlook, if not your lifestyle. A better understanding of love relationships is indicated. Luck can come from distant places, and new opportunities may arise unexpectedly.

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 7-1-6-5

Lotto Numbers: 7-15-16-23-32-41

There could be luck in real estate matters, and improved finances are indicated. Lovers should be more supportive. For many, this is a period of luck, love and pleasant surprises.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: Rose

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1-2-2-9

Lotto Numbers: 1-10-19-20-29-40

Many will gain the things in life they need to make them happier. However, do not make any important decisions without consulting experts. Health and moods should steadily improve.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2-4-7-2

Lotto Numbers: 2-13-22-27-31-40

The wise will consult experts on any important decision-making. Most will be too generous with their time and money. Make sure others are doing their fair share and not relying too heavily on you.

LEO (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 1-4-2-1

Lotto Numbers: 1-14-20-21-37-41

Most people should soon feel happier and healthier. However, try not to become involved in situations your loved ones would not understand or approve of. Clear communication will avoid misunderstandings.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-8-2-9

Lotto Numbers: 1-18-23-28-29-35

Travel plans could be altered or deferred. Many may change their homes or lifestyles. Information received could be confusing, so take time to sort matters out and consult professionals if necessary.

LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Burgundy

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 2-1-4-1

Lotto Numbers: 2-5-14-30-31-40

Travel could bring surprises in your love life. Career pressures should ease, giving most people more leisure time. For some, a moneymaking idea could prove successful if handled wisely.

SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1-5-1-7

Lotto Numbers: 6-15-24-33-42-43

Luck can come in more ways than usual. Your confidence will draw others to your way of thinking. Legal dealings should be easily handled, and luck in gambling is indicated for some.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1-8-1-9

Lotto Numbers: 1-8-11-19-26-42

A busier time than usual, with more variety in social activities. Lovers will have a greater effect on your decision-making, so consider advice carefully before acting.

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Grey

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

Lotto Numbers: 1-12-21-30-36-41

A fortunate period for real estate dealings and travel. A positive attitude will help keep the peace around you and smooth over minor tensions.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 4-8-1-2

Lotto Numbers: 4-6-8-12-22-40

There should be surprises in store. Financially, this is a more buoyant period. The attitude of loved ones may be harder to understand, but a career offer could bring a change of a lifetime.

PISCES (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 6-3-2-2

Lotto Numbers: 6-13-15-24-32-39

A very changeable period in which you could alter your attitude toward your present environment and future aims, possibly heading in an entirely new direction. A holiday or short break could help you regain balance.

PUPPY THEFT IN SOUTH YARRA

■ Police have charged a woman after an alleged puppy theft in South Yarra.

It is alleged that Dora, the 10-monthold black cavoodle, was untied from a pole outside a shopping complex on Chapel St about 3.25pm on Monday, March 9.

After vision was widely shared, a call to Crime Stoppers from a member of the public led officers to a house on Barnett Grove in Noble Park

Dora was located uninjured and returned to her family.

A 19-year-old woman was arrested at the property. She was charged with theft.

The Noble Park woman was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 28.

A 27-year-old Richmond woman self-presented at a police station. She was interviewed and released pending further enquiries.

Police believe one female offender remains outstanding at this stage. She is perceived to be Caucasian, aged in her 20s with long brown hair.

The woman was seen wearing a black T-shirt and Adidas branded tracksuit pants.

Newborn found

■ Brimbank Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are investigating after a newborn baby was located in Keilor Downs.

A member of the public reported locating the baby in the yard of their Copernicus Way home shortly before 8am.

The baby and a 22-year-old woman from a nearby address were taken to hospital for treatment. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident remain ongoing.

Carjack and crash

■ Transit Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man wanted following a carjacking and serious crash in Seabrook

centre as part of Operation Pulse spotted and quickly arrested the man at the premises on Derrimut and Heaths Rds.

It follows an alleged carjacking and subsequent crash in Seabrook on Tuesday, March 3. Emergency services were called to reports a car had crashed into a tree and split into two on Point Cook Rd about 1am.

Police will allege the vehicle was stolen at Laverton Railway Station minutes before it negotiated a roundabout at a fast rate of speed, struck a gutter and crashed into a tree.

The 2011 Toyota Kluger was destroyed, and the driver fled the scene.

A 19-year-old

Lara man was arrested and has since been charged with a number of offences, including:

■ carjacking

■ tamper with motor vehicle

■ attempted theft of motor vehicle

■ reckless conduct endangering life

■ reckless conduct endangering serious injury

■ drive at speed dangerous

■ careless driving

■ fail to report accident to police

■ drive whilst disqualified.

He was to appear before Wyndham Magistrates’ Court on March 12.

Lovely Banks tragedy tragedy tragedy

■ ■ Police are investigating the circumstances surround-

located at 808 Main Rd, Hurstbridge at close of business on that date.

Double use for building

■ The State Government is delivering a new Melbourne Indoor Sports Centre at Albert Park

The new centre will double as the Formula 1 Pit Building during the Australian Grand Prix each year.

State Minister Steve Dimopoulos announced demolition of the existing building will begin on Friday, March 27.

ing a fatal collision in Lovely Banks Emergency services were called to Lovely Banks Rd after reports of a two-car collision.

Crews attended to the male driver of one of the vehicles but he could not be revived.

His female passenger has been taken to hospital with critical injuries.

The occupants of the other vehicle were taken to hospital for treatment.

The investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing.

165-kmh speedster

■ Police officers from Castlemaine Uniform were conducting a laser patrol on the Calder Fwy when they detected a red Commodore sedan travelling at an alleged speed of 165-kmh in a 100-kmh zone.

They intercepted the car and spoke to the driver, a 25year-old man from Kensington man.

His car was impounded with towing costs of $1874 and he is expected to be charged on summons with traffic related offences.

Branch to close

■ The Community Bank Kinglake will permanently close from 12.30pm on Friday, Juen 5

Customers have been advised that their counts will be automatically transferred to Com munity Bank Hurstbridge , lo-

The current facility was built in 1995 when Melbourne first hosted the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix

It will be replaced with a modern facility designed to support both community sport and world-class motorsport.

The centre will feature seven indoor multi-purpose courts with change rooms – two more courts than the current facility.

It will feature higher ceilings to cater for more sports, alongside improved clubrooms for tenant clubs.

The centre will be managed by the State Sport Centres Trust , which operates facilities across Albert Park including the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and Lakeside Stadium.

During the Australian Grand Prix, the building will transform into the event’s pit building with 14 garages, a new race control and upgraded race administration and media spaces.

The world-renowned Paddock Club will also expand to host up to 5000 patrons each day.

This year’s Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix broke attendance records.

A total of 483,934 fans attended across the four-day event.

“Secured in Melbourne until 2037, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix is a cornerstone of Victoria’s $3.3 billion major events calendar – supporting thousands of jobs and showcasing the state to the world,” said a Govt representative.

● The Argus. March 17, 1951.

hunt

■ Who gave Mr. Kent Hughes a copy of the minutes of the Labor Party's recent Federal Conference in Canberra ?

Demands for the answer to this question hare started a sensational "heresy hunt" within the Labor Party.

Yesterday, in the House of Representatives at Canberra, Mr. Kent Hughes, Liberal Party member for Chisholm in Victoria , tabled an original copy of the minutes.

He read extracts from the minutes directing Labor Party members of Parliament how to vote on legislation, and demanded that the Parliamentary Committee of Privileges investigate whether this constituted contempt of Parliament

Million for Les

■ Les Thiess , 41, of Queensland , dropped into Melbourne yesterday and made £1 million in a minute.

That minute was spent signing the £3,200,000 contract under which Victoria will get 200,000 tons of Callide coal a year for three years.

The £1 million is the conservative estimate of how much he and his brothers, who own the coal, will get out of the contract.

Thiess was trembling with suppressed excitement when he and Mr. McDonald, Premier , sat down to sign the contract.

Later, still looking a bit shaken, he told "The Argus": "This is the biggest day in my life. I have 60,000 acres of this coal pegged out, so today's contract could lead to anything."

Mr. Thiess agreed that he and his brothers would make a million out of the deal, but added hurriedly: "Of course, you know, that won't be all profit."

Maureen’s view

■ Hollywood, Friday - Australians enjoy the movies more than Americans do, according to Maureen O'Hare, film star, who has just returned from Australia

"They shout and yell at exciting moments and toss comment at the screen," she said.

"If the picture is funny, the audience screams with laughter.

"Down under, taste favors anything with horses.

"Bob Hope and Bing Crosby are prime favorites."

Saturday, March 17, 1951

Local Theatre Tape

Face

■ Bohm Presents announces the return of Tape Face for his Australian Tour from March 26-April 18 at Fortyfivedownstairs , 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne.

Celebrating 20 years of the show said to 'redefine physical comedy', Tape Face will tour nationwide including being part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Tape Face is the creation of New Zealand -born performer Sam Wills , who initially trained as a clown and busker before developing his silent comic persona.

That now-legendary persona rose to global fame after a viral run on America’s Got Talent where his quirky, tape-sealed mouth, wide-eyed expressions and prop routines earned standing ovations and tens of millions of online views.

This unique blend of mime, physical humour, participatory theatre and sheer creative audacity has sold out theatres from Las Vegas to Edinburgh for two decades.

Performance Dates: March 26 - April 18

Venue: fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Bookings: bohmpresents.com

Cheryl Threadgold

Kaboom!

■ The award-winning show Kaboom! can be seen at the Spiegel Haus Melbourne - Empire Tent from April 319.

The maddest of mad scientists, Magnus Danger Magnus , is back. Following nation-wide sell out seasons at arts festivals around Australia and the UK , this all-ages electromagnetic extravaganza returns with a fresh rendition of a science spectacular.

Chaotic mayhem abounds in this stylish S.T.E.M. show with "10 times the spectacle and 20,000 times the voltage of the science classes at school!"

Magnus has exploded his way across the country, lighting fires on stage and setting kids’ curiosity ablaze. Now he’s built a fascinating new set of gizmos and gadgets guaranteed to electrify.

Described as "a high-octane show delivering educational entertainment at its absolute best".

Venue: Spiegel Haus Melbourne –Empire Tent, 217 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Time: 2pm

Dates: April 3 – 19 (no shows Monday)

Tickets: comedyfestival.com.au/ browse-shows/kaboom-2/

Cheryl Threadgold

Cast announced

■ Four young Melbourne actresses have been announced to play the role of Jenna’s daughter Lulu in the Melbourne season of Broadway musical Waitress, which arrives at Her Majesty’s Theatre Melbourne from May 1.

Lulu will be played by Stevie Denton (5 years old, from North Warrandyte), Lola Inman (5, from Langwarrin), Ruby Marshall (5, from Port Melbourne) and Evie Papas (6, from Templestowe ). Tickets for new performances have gone on sale at Waitressthe Musical.com.au

Leading the cast as Jenna will be Natalie Bassingthwaighte (Chicago,ShirleyValentine), while Gabriyel Thomas (Cats,Sister Act) and Mackenzie Dunn (Grease,Annie) play Becky and Dawn, Jenna’s coworkers at the diner. Rob Mills (&Juliet,Wicked) will play Dr Pomatter, and legendary actor John Waters (Jesus Christ Superstar, Oliver!) will be Joe, the owner of the diner. Keanu Gonzalez (Annie, West Side Story) will play Earl, Gareth Isaac (Elf the Musical, Mary Poppins) will play the role of Ogie, John Xintavelonis (The Wizard of Oz,TheLionKing) will play Cal, and Annie Aitken (Guys & Dolls, The Sound of Music) will be the Jenna Alternate. The ensemble and swing cast comprises Cameron Boxall, Alexandra Cashmere, Ethan Jones, Dwayne Mitchell, Joseph Naim, Conor Neylon, Belle Parkinson, Emily Robinson, Elandrah Tavares, Bree Tipoki and Stephanie Wall.

BOOK LAUNCH FOR 40-YEAR OLD MARIOS

■ Melbourne's iconic Brunswick St cafe in Fitzro y will celebrate with the launch of Marios 40th Anniversary book and all day complimentary prosecco and cake on Tuesday, April 28, from 8am to 10pm.

The official launch will be at 10.30am.

To celebrate the milestone and express appreciation for the culture and community that’s surrounded it from the beginning, the Marios large format magazine style publication will be available free of charge to diners.

The Marios book is a time capsule that covers the café’s 40-year history through stories, photos and insights, with words from the two Marios in conversation, as well as contributions from the community that it has supported and been supported by since 1986 – figures from the worlds of food and wine, music and film, the arts, design and sport. And everyone names their favourite dish.

Event Date: Tuesday, April 28 from 8am to 10pm. Book launch at 10.30am.

Venue: 303 Brunswick St., Fitzroy.

Cheryl Threadgold

Anna Lapwood

● ● Royal Albert Hall organist Anna Lapwood. Photo: Laura Manariti.

■ The Melbourne Town Hall organ is Australia’s largest romantic pipe organ, meaning it can be used for symphonic works.

To Anna Lapwood, the official organist of the Royal Albert Hall, it also has a personality and presence.

Together they revealed the capabilities and temperament of such an instrument that ranges from delicate chimes to waves of sound that resonate to the core.

Lapwood is the perfect ambassador of both classical music and organs in general. She encouraged the audience to use the torch on their phones when playing Zimmer’s work from 'Interstellar’, building theatrical atmosphere.

She ensured the children could all see by inviting them to sit on the floor close to where she was playing. She even had the audience sing along at one point.

This personalises the instrument and the role of organist, given one normally plays with one’s back to the viewer.

Close circuit cameras on the keyboard and pedals testified to Lapwood’s dexterity and musicianship. She is playing different parts with hands and feet releasing stops and changing the tone and texture simultaneously.

The concert comprised her arrangements of well known cinema pieces – Pirates of the Caribbean and Lord of the Rings – but the classical pieces also highlighted the versatility of the organ. Lapwood’s exuberance and enthusiasm was infectious, her playing dynamic, and behind it all were some nine and a half thousand organ pipes being brought to life.

Such is her conviction, Lapwood builds a relationship with the instrument believing each organ has its own character, and this inspires both her creativity and passion.

The recent sold out Australian concerts are testament not only to her playing, but this inspirational outlook.

Review by David McLean

Buxton Contemporay

■ The University of Melbourne's Buxton Contemporary will present a major new exhibition that revisits a defining yet underexplored moment in the history of Chinese contemporary art.

Presented from May 1– October 3, Poetry goes no further than language: A historical moment of art becoming art again examines the emergence of conceptualism in China during the mid to late 1980s and early 1990s, bringing together restaged works, archival material and a new artist commission.

The exhibition will also be the first bilingual ( English/Chinese) exhibition presented at Buxton Contemporary

Curated by Carol Yinghua Lu, Director of Beijing's Inside-Out Art Museum, and artist Liu Ding , the exhibition brings together the entire body of work by Beijing-based artist collective New Measurement Group (1989–95).

It also features a selection of works by Shanghai -based conceptual artist Qian Weikang (active 1990–95) and a new commission by Melbourne -based artist Darcey Bella Arnold.

Poetry goes no further than language extends a series of research-led exhibitions that Liu Ding and Carol Yinghua Lu have developed over a number of years that revisit the formation of modern and contemporary Chinese art history.

The presentation at Buxton Contemporary builds on two earlier exhibitions examining the Chinese conceptual art movement: one centred on New Measurement Group and one on Qian Weikang , bringing new research and reconstructions of historical works by these artists to Australia for the first time.

At the onset of the 1980s, a wave of intellectual awakening introduced artists across China to new ideas and ways of thinking.

During this period, artists responded to the prevailing themes and visual styles of the time, while simultaneously questioning the nature of art itself.

This complex process of concurrence eventually culminated in a decisive turn toward contemporary arts practice. Contributed

What’s On Hold Me, Hold Me, Hold Me

■ A Kissing Booth Productions writer Jake Stewart , staged his Hold Me Hold Me Hold Me at The Mission for Seafarers, Docklands.

An historic complex built last century in 1916, being a part of a worldwide support organisation with headquarters in London, while it has four like Mission locations in Victoria and some 30 locations around Australia

Probably little is known about the Mission , as an arm of the Anglican Church that has been assisting seafarers since 1856, with spiritual and practical support throughout some 200 ports worldwide. A visit to the Docklands location would enlighten many.

Now for the review. The production should not have been at the ‘Dome’ of the Mission complex, in its large circular space with a very high Dome which unfortunately caused most dialogue to be lost with echo, limiting clarity giving way for many of the audience to watch carefully the ‘body language’ between the two actors, Callum O’Mara and Wheeler Maurer

There was no information provided at the performance as to what character either played throughout the diverse collection of vignettes nor their titles, so we were not party to exactly where the particular vignettes were being played out.

A violinist alerted us to the end of each vignette with a short rendition while the actors perambulated the circle before commencing the next vignette.

In being able to peruse the script of three of the vignettes, Under City Lights, Tennessee and High School, there should have been some change of costume that was referred to in the body of the scripts.

Accents should have varied, maybe they did but the echo effect didn’t help. The interaction between the actors who played many varying roles was generally good, at times confronting, at times with intimacy, a hint of gayness but no nudity as scripted.

If there is another performance season of Hold Me it should be in a smaller theatre so as to fully appreciate the work of the actors.

Selection of a suitable venue is important in that it meets the needs of the writer’s work. I am also very cautious of writers actually directing their own work for stage.

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Small Poppy

■ MILKE presents Gabbi Bolt in Small Poppy as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival from March 26-April 19 at The Malthouse - Playbox. Poppies are tricky. Nurture them too much and they wilt; ignore them and they thrive until they don’t. Harvest too early? Disaster. Grow too tall? Well, we all know what happens to tall poppies.

Gabbi Bolt returns with an hour of musical comedy dissecting success, failure, Ancient Rome and the quiet tragedy of novelty mugs.

Performance Season: March 26 - April 19

Venue: The Malthouse - Playbox

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Observations Local Theatre

■ One of the great classical music traditions is the spectacular choral music written for Easter.

The ever-popular Bach’s St Matthew Passion will be performed by the appropriately named Melbourne Bach Choir on Good Friday (April 3) at 2.30 pm in Melbourne Recital Centre.

It will be sung in German , the language of its composer, and will feature two adult choirs, a children’s choir, two orchestras and Australian soloists.

St Matthew Passion is a dramatic musical telling of the story of the Passion of Christ and has been traditionally performed in churches for nearly 300 years – its first performance was in Leipzig on Good Friday , April 11, 1727.

The work will be conducted by Melbourne Bach Choir artistic director Rick Prakhoff and features excellent soloists.

They are tenor Andrew Goodwin as the Evangelist and bass Adrian Tamburini as Christus , with famous arias being performed by audience favourite mezzo-soprano Sally-Anne Russell , soprano Lorina Gore , tenor Henry Choo , and basses Christopher Hillier and Simon Meadows

With its darkly evocative orchestral opening Bach creates a narrative more compelling than that of any opera of the period, making this extraordinary musical journey an ideal reflection for Good Friday. Book tickets at melbournerecital. com.au

Julie Houghton

More Auditions

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

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

Cheryl Threadgold

Offbeat Sari

■ Bunjil Place Gallery has announced the Australian debut of The Offbeat Sari, a landmark international exhibition celebrating the sari - one of the world’s most widely worn garmentswhich opened on March 22. Developed by the Design Museum and presented in partnership with Sydney’s Liverpool Powerhouse, The Offbeat Sari brings together over 50 groundbreaking saris on loan from leading global designers and emerging studios across India in a large-scale exploration of the contemporary Indian and South Asian fashion staple. Conceived and curated by Priya Khanchandani to highlight the evolution of the iconic garment and its reinvention in the modern era, The Offbeat Sari explores how the sari is an expression of identity and resistance, with designers, wearers and craftspeople reshaping the ways in which it is understood.

Rourke’s Reviews

I Swear

■ (MA). 120 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas March 26.

This feel good dramedy about John Davidson and his fight with Tourette’s Syndrome , will certainly entertain audiences, even if it does pull its punches to assure mainstream acceptance.

The story centres on Davidson (very well played by Scott Ellis Watson as a teenager and Robert Aramayo as an adult) who sees his life prospects restricted due to his confronting affliction.

Abandoned by his father David (Steven Cree) , who can’t handle his physical tics and profane outbursts, he and his two sisters have to rely on their mother Heather (Shirley Henderson), who does her best even though she can’t understand his behaviour.

Heather has nothing to compare it to, as almost nothing was known about Tourette’s in 1983.

Now a young adult in 1996, John has a careful relationship with his mother, but his life will take a major turn when he meets Dottie Achenbach (Maxine Peake) , a mother who is dying of cancer, and who takes the troubled man in to her household, which upsets Heather

Under Dottie’s caring hand, John becomes more confident in himself, leading to a job at a community centre, run by Tommy Trotter (Peter Mullan)

This will then see John become very important in the lives of others who also suffer from Tourette’s

I Swear definitely works as entertainment, as the subject is presented in a comfortable, non-confrontational manner.

This is never more obvious during scenes where Davidson is conveniently unaffected, so heartfelt moments can play out smoothly.

Some montages presenting his success as a mentor and messenger fall into the predictable and routine.

You can certainly tell this is from the director of Waking Ned Devine and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2.

The oddest aspect is the way Heather simply disappears, not reappearing until near the end of the film in strangely token fashion.

It seems to dismiss the hard work John’s mother had to do, without the information others had in years to come.

Where the film succeeds most is in the performances. Watson and Aramayo are outstanding, bringing a convincing humanity to John, both never allowing John to fall into either comical caricature or melodramatic excess.

Peake is terrific as Dottie, another role that could have easily fallen into stereo

type. Last but not least is Mullan, who is superb as the affable but observant Tommy. I Swear is good, engaging viewing, but one wishes the film hit harder and deeper.

RATING - ***½

The Trip

■ (MA). 113 minutes. Now available on Netflix.

With the remake, Over Your Dead Body, starring Samara Weaving and Jason Segal, currently receiving positive reviews at the SXSW Film Festival, it’s the perfect time to re-watch, or discover, the 2021 Scandinavian original, which despite a longer than necessary running time, provides wild and funny viewing.

Aksel Hennie and Noomi Rapace play Lars and Lisa, a married couple whose passion for each other vanished long ago.

Lars is an ambitious director who gets by helming soap opera TV, while Lisa is an actress who can’t land a substantial role, only commercials.

The two decide to take a weekend vacation at a remote holiday cabin built by Lars’s father, to try and rekindle the magic, but it is soon obvious that Lars has a much more sinister scheme at play, but of course, nothing goes to plan.

A blend of TheWarOfTheRoses,Raising Arizona and The Ref, The Trip takes its time setting up the relationship between Lars and Lisa before the mayhem ensues, along with secondary sub-plots which will eventually complicate issues even more.

Co-writer/director Tommy Wirkola treats the two main characters with surprising care, wanting us to see them as people before things get bloody.

Unfortunately, some comic elements involving secondary characters don’t work, especially when things become scatological, and overlength hampers the scenario’s overall impact, with the film needing to be tighter and more efficient.

The frequent turns keeps the material involving, and the character foundation makes sure we want to see how everything plays out.

Hennie (Sisu) and Rapace (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, Mother) are both terrific, and play off each other extremely well.

As the blood begins to flow, thankfully the effects are mainly delivered practically.

Wirkola is a director whose past efforts have been frustratingly hit-and-miss (Dead Snow 1 and 2, Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, Violent Night), and while this again doesn’t fully hit the bullseye, it is great fun and his best film to date.

RATING - ***½

Aaron Rourke

French honour for Mick Harvey

■ A Monash journalism academic has been instrumental in securing one of France’s highest cultural honours for musician Mick Harvey (from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds).

Mr Harvey will be awarded the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters).

Led by City of Port Phillip councillor Serge Thomann (also a Councillor for French expatriates in Australia ), the threeyear campaign brought together leading voices from Australia’s music and arts sectors, including testimonials from Monash academic Dr Andrea Baker and artists Nick Cave and Sophia Brous

Their professional ties to the global music industry and advocacy highlighted Mr Harvey’s transformative role in translating and reinterpreting the work of legendary French singersongwriter Serge Gainsbourg for English -speaking audiences.

Dr Baker’s involvement

in the nomination drew on decades of her research into transnational music networks, including residencies in Berlin and New York City, global presentations at SXSW Inc in Austin (Texas) and her awardwinning book Great Music City (2019), which explores music and place, the Bad Seeds’ Berlin years where Gainsbourg’s influence first surfaced, and the movement of music across global cities.

Dr Andrea Baker, Senior Lecturer from Monash’s School of Media, Film and Journalism , said cultural diplomacy and creative industries are central to Australia’s global identity.

“My research focuses on how artists build cultural bridges across borders, and Mick Harvey’s reinterpretation of Serge GainsPbourg’s repertoire is one of the most significant examples of this in contemporary music.

His decades-long work translating and performing Gainsbourg’s music has showcased Australian cre-

Shows

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

■ BottledSnail Productions: Urinetown, Until March 28 at Gasworks Arts Park, Albert Park. Bookings: gasworks.org.au/whats-on/urinetownthe-musical/

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

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

■ Essendon Theatre Company: The Rise and Fall of Little Voice (by Jim Cartwright) Until March 28 at the Bradshaw St. Community Hall, 9 Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Alexander Gibbs. Bookings: 0406 448 368 or Trybooking.com.au

■ Burwood Student Theatre Company: Macbeth (by William Shakespeare) April 9 – 11 at Vermont Secondary College, 27-63 Morack Rd., Vermont. Director: Matthew Carcassi. Bookings: burwoodstudenttheatrecompany@gmail.com Windmill Theatre Company: Frozen Jr April 6 – 19 at the Cranbourne Community Theare, Brunt St., Cranbourne. Bookings: Trybooking.

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

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

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

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

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

ativity internationally while deepening engagement with French culture and language,” Dr Baker said.

“ Mr Harvey’s award affirms the significance of sustained artistic collaboration, translation, and experimentation across borders.

]Established in 1957, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the arts and to the promotion of F rench culture.

Mr Harvey joins a small group of Australian recipients, including Nick Cave (2025), Dr Elizabeth Cameron Dalman (2025), Kylie Minogue (2008) and conservationist Madame Hélène Blaxland (1957).

The honour will be formally presented by His Excellency Mr Pierre-André Imbert, Ambassador of France to Australia , at a special event in Melbourne on Wednesday evening (Mar. 24), where Mr Harvey will also perform selections from his Gainsbourg -inspired recordings.

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

Auditions

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Birdsong (by Sebastian Faulks, adapted by Richard Wagstaff) March 29, 30 at 7pm at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Michelle Swann. Audition bookings: htc.org.au

■ The 1812 Theatre: Switzerland (by Joanna Murray-Smith) March 29 and April 1 at 7.30pm at 3 Rose St., Ferntree Gully. Director: Andrew Ferguson. Audition bookings: afconsulting@ bigpond.com

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Looped (by Matthew Lombardo) April 6, 7 from 7pm-10pm at 2 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Loretta Bishop. Audition bookings: retbish68@gmail.com.

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

■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Matilda Jr. April 7, 9, 12 at 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Co-Directors: Maeghan McKenzie and Dean Robinson; Musical Director: Sally McKenzie; Choreographer: Alivia Dennis. Audition Bookings: fabnobs theatre.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

St Francis Xavier Primary School Box Hill

■ This is my sixth year as Principal at St Francis Xavier. Our vision, ‘a caring faith community fostering welcome, inclusion and a love of learning’ is at the heart of everything we do.

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

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

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

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

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

■ NAME: St Francis Xavier Primary School, Box Hill

■ PRINCIPAL: Mary Jones

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

■ PHONE: 9890 1108

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

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

families, and guide us in being our best selves.

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

This enables optimal learning for all and makes our classrooms calm, settled learning spaces where all can succeed.

We welcome all families to come and visit and experience this wonderful learning environment for themselves.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary School, Sunbury

■ As Principal of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary School, I am proud to lead a school community where faith, learning and belonging are at the heart of everything we do.

Catholic Education Week is a special time for us to celebrate what makes Catholic schooling unique — the integration of Gospel values with high-quality teaching and learning.

At Our Lady of Mount Carmel, we believe every child is created in the image of God, with unique gifts and limitless potential. My role as Principal is to ensure each

■ NAME: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Julie Freeman

■ ADDRESS: 53 Macedon St, Sunbury, Vic 3429

■ PHONE: 9740 7344

■ EMAIL: jfreeman@olmsunbury. catholic.edu.au

student feels known, valued and inspired to grow.

Our Catholic identity shapes daily life in our school. Through prayer, liturgy, Religious Education through a Life and Faith approach and opportunities for service, our students learn to live with compassion, courage and integrity. Faith is not simply taught — it is lived.

At the same time, we are deeply committed to ensuring all students have the opportunity and support to flourish. We provide a contemporary, evidence-based curriculum with strong foundations in English and Mathematics, complemented by specialist programs (Physical Education, Visual Arts, STEAM, Auslan and Performing Arts) and innovative learning opportunities. Our dedicated teachers work collaboratively to ensure that every child is supported and challenged at their point of need.

One of the things I value most about our school is the strong partnership we share with families. Education is most powerful when school and home work together. We are a welcoming and inclusive community where relationships matter and every child has a place.

I feel privileged each day to witness our students grow — not only as capable learners, but as thoughtful, faith-filled young people ready to contribute positively to the world.

St Bernard’s Primary School East Coburg

■ My name is Julie Di Noto and I feel extremely blessed to be serving St Bernard’s community as the new Principal.

As I walk through the school I feel so much warmth and welcome. As a Catholic school guided by Gospel values, faith, compassion and service is evident.

There is a deep sense of respect and responsibility of staff and students to nurture and support all.

Student safety and wellbeing is a priority for me. It is clear that children are known, cared for and inspired to grow as learners.

St Bernard’s - ‘where you are known,’ offers a personalised approach, ensuring each student reaches their full potential.

At the heart of my educational philosophy is the belief that parents are the first educators of their children and that schools walk alongside families as true partners,

■ NAME: St Bernard’s Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Julie Di Noto

■ ADDRESS: 36 Patterson St, East Coburg, Vic 3058

■ PHONE: 9384 8500

■ EMAIL: jdinoto@stbernardscoburg. catholic.edu.au

working together in trust and collaboration. Sharing stories, hopes and dreams for our school is something that I value. We offer a dynamic curriculum with specialist subjects including Art, Italian, Digital Technologies, STEM, Physical Education and Music.

Learning experiences, aligned with evidence based data driven practices are implemented to foster deep learning and growth.

St Martin De Porres Primary School Avondale Heights

■ As a parent choosing the right school for your child is one of the most significant decisions you will make.

I believe that the best thing about St Martin de Porres Parish Primary is the people who make up our school community and the generosity of spirit that is integral to our school.

It is my privilege to lead this faith community. Our motto "Faith, Diversity, Learning", places great value on fostering an environment where students feel welcomed, safe, curious and ready to learn.

Equity and Excellence form our school direction, with goals across Learning and Teaching, Faith Formation and Community.

Our classrooms are vibrant places of learning, where staff focus on growing our students academically, spiritually and socially and emotionally.

We have specialist teachers for Visual Art, Performing Art, STEM, PE and AUSLAN.

The school environment is friendly and

■ NAME: St Martin De Porres Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Stefanie Harvey

■ ADDRESS: 158 Military Rd, Avondale Heights, Vic 3034

■ PHONE: 9331 9000

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

well organised, with staff implementing current educational good practice to meet the needs of the students.

Student voice and agency shapes our own community events and wider Social Justice initiatives, with an active student leadership team. We offer a range of lunchtime activities such as gardening, chess, lego, choir and art club. Join us at St Martin's and you will be part of a vibrant multicultural community where our students are at the heart of everything we do.

St Luke The Evangelist Primary school, Blackburn South

■ Welcome to our beautiful faith-filled learning community here at St Luke the Evangelist Primary School, in the heart of Blackburn South.

We honour the sacred land of the Wurundjeri people of the Woi-Wurrung language whose story we continue to explore … I am so proud of what we offer our children,

■ NAME: St Luke The Evangelist Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Clare Ryan

■ ADDRESS: 46 Orchard Grove, Blackburn South, Vic 3130

■ PHONE: 9877 4023

■ WEBSITE: https:// www.slblackburnsth.catholic.edu.au/

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

our families and our local community.

It’s a heartspace where every child is known and loved for their unique gifts. Whilst we are uniquely Catholic, we relish the opportunity to embrace families of all faiths.

We are not a super big school but we believe this is our super-power! At St Luke’s, we are known, we are loved and we make strong connections with our families because of their diverse cultural backgrounds.

We work in partnership with them to develop the whole child. This allows us to really focus on each child’s individual learning pathway.

Our Victorian based curriculum forms evidence- based, direct and explicit teaching that is dynamic and engaging due to the outstanding teaching and support staff we have and the incredible learning spaces we continue to develop.

Child safety and student wellbeing is prioritised and celebrated so that every child feels safe.

Our children grow into happy, curious citizens of the world developing their own voice around their learning. St Luke’s is where our children begin to make their own mark on the world.

I would love to show you around St Luke’s … l know you will be impressed.

them as a staff at St Martin’s School.

■ NAME: St Martin of Tours School

■ PRINCIPAL: Angela Lacey

■ ADDRESS: 2-12 Silk St, Rosanna, Vic 3084

■ PHONE: 9458 7500

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

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

Our staff care about each student's wellbeing and are dedicated to the growth of every child.

About Our School

At St Martin’s, we teach explicitly and encourage the students to discuss, think and apply their learning across the curriculum.

Following the ‘Vision for Instruction’ model (MACS), we implement an evidence based direct instruction approach to learning across the curriculum, including a structured phonics approach to the teaching of reading in the P-2 area.

Whenever possible, we link Religious Education and Inquiry Learning, so that the students see faith as intertwined in life.

Our Specialist areas are enjoyed by the students and include PE, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, STEM and our LOTE is Italian.

Some of the highlights of our school include: Preparation of the students for the sacraments at Years 3, 4 and 6; a whole school Performance and a Visual Arts Show (Biennial); a fabulous Buddies program; Camps and excursions; Sports Days and Swimming, lunchtime activities and opportunities for Leadership roles.

I look forward to meeting you at a tour to share our educational approach and the range of opportunities we offer at St Martin of Tours School.

Our Lady of Sion College Box Hill

■ Our Lady of Sion College begins an exciting new chapter under the leadership of its new Principal, Rebecca Cetrola, who brings a strong focus on developing a contemporary and dynamic learning culture.

The College is committed to creating an environment where students are challenged, supported and inspired to grow as confident, capable and curious learners.

The College's vision is centred on “sowing the seeds of hope, uncovering the excellence within every student and inspiring a commitment to justice.”

This vision shapes the College’s approach to learning, emphasising curiosity, innovation and student voice.

Teachers design learning experiences that encourage deeper thinking, creativity and engagement, ensuring students feel empowered to take ownership of their learning.

■ NAME: Our Lion of Sion College

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

■ PHONE: 9890 9097

■ EMAIL: IsztalSusman@sion. catholic.edu.au

The College’s learning culture is relational and personalised, with wellbeing seen as essential to academic growth and student success.

Through realworld learning, service initiatives and broad cocurricular opportunities, students are supported to develop the skills, confidence and character needed to navigate a rapidly changing world.

Families are invited to visit the College and experience its vibrant learning community firsthand.

As an allgirls school, Our Lady of Sion provides an environment where students are free to explore interests, discover new possibilities and lead boldly, knowing their voices will be heard and valued.

Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Bayswater

■ Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, located in Bayswater, Victoria, is a co-educational Catholic institution serving students from Prep to Year 6.

Established in 1965, the school has a rich history of providing quality education underpinned by Gospel values.

The curriculum at Our Lady of Lourdes is comprehensive, offering specialist programs in Italian, Music, Art/ Wellbeing and Physical Education.

Since 2016, Ross Williams has served as the principal of Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School.

With over two decades of experience in Catholic primary education in Melbourne's outer eastern suburbs, Ross is dedicated to leading a learning community that supports families and fosters student development.

■ NAME: Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Ross Williams

■ ADDRESS: 23 Orange Grove, Bayswater, Vic 3153

■ PHONE: 9729 3411

■ EMAIL: rwilliams@olbayswater. catholic.edu.au

Under his leadership, the school has maintained a strong focus on student wellbeing, inclusiveness, and academic excellence.

Mr. Williams emphasises the importance of community engagement, striving to know each child and their family personally. Under his guidance, Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School continues to be an active and important part of the Our Lady of Lourdes parish community.

You are warmly invited to attend our Open Days or to book a tour with the principal to learn more about why Our Lady of Lourdes School is a wonderful learning environment for all children.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Ringwood

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

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

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

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

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

■ NAME: Our Lady of Perpetual Help

■ PRINCIPAL: Jennifer Rohan

■ ADDRESS: 2 Wilana St, Ringwood, Vic 3134

■ PHONE: 980 7227

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

Our academic programs are designed to challenge and support each child, helping them reach their full potential.

Our dedicated teachers and staff are here to guide and encourage your child’s success. Small class size caters for all needs

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

Sacred Heart Girls’ College Hughesdale

■ At Sacred Heart Girls’ College, our vision is clear: every student graduates hopefilled, futureready, and empowered to make a meaningful difference. Inspired by the charism of the RNDM Sisters, we strive to form “women with a heart for the world.” This vision comes to life through transformative learning that inspires both students and staff within a strong, connected community.

Our environment fosters high expectations, excellence, achievement, and equity, encouraging growth guided by both intellect and compassion. United in purpose, our teachers share a consistent, evidencebased approach to teaching and learning, while remaining responsive, innovative, and attentive to the needs of every learner.

Our new Principal, Julie Swanson, appointed last year after seven years as

■ NAME: Sacred Heart Girls’ College

■ PRINCIPAL: Julie Swanson

■ ADDRESS: 113 Warrigal Rd, Hughesdale, Vic 3166

■ PHONE: 9568 5488

■ EMAIL: principal@shgc.vic.edu.au

Deputy Principal, continues to champion these values.

For Julie, what makes Sacred Heart truly special is its welcoming and inclusive culture.

New members of our community frequently comment on the positive atmosphere, noting that it is evident from the moment they step onto the school grounds. This warm and respectful environment has been shaped by the collective efforts of students, staff, and families who celebrate diversity and recognise success in all its forms.

Marcellin College Bulleen

■ Founded by the Marist Brothers in 1950, Marcellin College is a leading Catholic secondary school for boys in Melbourne’s east.

The College began with just 117 students in Camberwell before relocating to its current Bulleen site in 1963.

Today, Marcellin’s expansive 14-hectare campus provides a dynamic and contemporary learning environment for more than 1,100 students.

Grounded in the traditions of Marist education, the College continues to nurture young men of faith, learning and service, with a proud legacy of graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions across fields including medicine, science, business, politics and engineering.

Principal Marco Di Cesare’s connection to Marist education spans more than two decades.

A Marist student himself from Year 7, Marco has dedicated 21 years to Catholic education as a teacher and leader.

His deep understanding of Marist values,

■ NAME: Marcellin College

■ ADDRESS: 160 Bulleen Rd, Bulleen, Vic 3105

■ PHONE: 9851 1589

■ WEBSITE: marcellin.vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: Richard.Liistro@ marcellin.vic.edu.au

combined with extensive leadership experience in Catholic schools, underpins his work as Principal of Marcellin College, a role he commenced in 2021.

Marco holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) from RMIT, a Graduate Diploma of Education, a Master of Business Administration (Executive) from ACU, a Master of Education Policy from the University of Melbourne, a Graduate Certificate in Theology and a Master of Theological Studies. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to lifelong learning and the enduring Marist tradition of educational excellence.

■ St Monica’s College, Epping is a vibrant coeducational Catholic secondary school that has proudly served Melbourne’s northern suburbs since 1964.

The College operates across four campuses: two in Epping, a third in Reservoir, and Ostia in Strath Creek, which is dedicated to the personal development and spiritual retreat experiences of students.

Across all campuses, St Monica’s delivers a contemporary and future-focused curriculum supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a strong commitment to academic excellence.

Students benefit from an extensive and diverse educational program enriched by outstanding cocurricular opportunities, including sport, performing and visual arts, STEM, leadership and community service.

The College is firmly grounded in values of inclusion and respect, ensuring every young person is supported to achieve their personal best.

■ NAME: St Monica’s College

■ NAME: Brian Hanley OAM

■ ADDRESS: 16 Davisson St, Epping, Vic 3076

■ PHONE: 9409 8888

■ EMAIL: e.attie@stmonicasepping. com

At St Monica’s College, every student matters, and no learner is left behind.

Principal Mr Brian Hanley OAM, who began his leadership in 1991, has played a pivotal role in the College’s growth in enrolments, facilities and educational offerings. His vision has ensured St Monica’s continues to evolve to meet the needs of contemporary learners and prepare students confidently for life beyond school.

Mr Hanley received the Order of Australia Medal in 2021 for his distinguished service to secondary education.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2026

Bush Telegraph Whiparound

Fuel reserves

■ “ Australia's fuel security system is under renewed scrutiny as tightening global supply shocks expose an uncomfortable reality: most of the nation's strategic fuel reserves are owned by private companies, form part of the normal commercial supply chain and, in some cases, are not even stored in Australia ,” reports Stock & Land.

Focus on climate

■ Monash University has established a new senior research Chair – the David Brand Foundation Professor in Natural Capital Investment – to work towards a more sustainable future through research that translates into commercialised and practical outcomes for the benefit of local and global communities.

The David Brand Foundation Chair in Natural Capital Investment will contribute to Monash University’s strategic priorities in sustainability, climate, responsible business and global impact.

New VFF leaders

■ The next cohort of Victorian farming leaders are encouraged to nominate for a number of roles, including Victorian Farmers Federation President and VicePresident as part of the 2026 VFF Elections. Brett Hosking will not re-nominate as President.

DIESEL, FERTILISER CRISIS FOR FARMERS

■ Victorian farmers are facing growing pressure in reliable access to diesel and fertiliser, worsened by global disruptions from the escalating Middle East conflict, panic buying at the bowser, and sharply rising import costs, says Emma Kealy, Deputy Leader of the Nationals.

“The Allan Labor Government must take urgent action and secure reliable supplies before critical winter cropping and livestock feeding operations suffer,” Ms Kealy said.

“Diesel and fertiliser are non-negotiable inputs for Victorian agriculture. Diesel powers tractors for planting, harvesting, and feed distribution, while fertiliser – particularly urea – is essential for crop establishment during the current seeding window. Disruptions at this time of year risk reduced yields, serious livestock welfare issues, and higher food prices for every Victorian family.

“Recent events have made the threat far more acute. Panic buying and supply chain pressures have left some regional areas waiting weeks for diesel deliveries, hitting farms just as winter crop preparations reach their peak. “Urea prices have surged nearly 30 per cent in the past month, with supplies tightening due to ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz – a vital route for much of Australia’s imported fertiliser,” Ms Kealy said.

Support for GPs

■ The Royal Australian College of GPs has welcomed changes to the Workforce Incentive Program – Rural Advanced Skills stream, following strong advocacy on behalf of rural and remote GPs.

“These reforms will remove unintended barriers that previously prevented many doctors from accessing incentive payments, particularly GPs delivering critical primary care and advanced skills services in rural and remote communities while also working parttime in metropolitan settings,” said a College representative.

Farm costs up

■ Australian farmers are experiencing renewed cost and supply pressures as global events, most notably the war in Iran , continue to affect prices and availability of essential farming inputs such as diesel fuel and fertiliser.

Recent developments in the Middle East have disrupted vital shipping routes and heightened volatility in international markets, says Rural Aid.

Feedlot innovation

■ Meat & Livestock Australi a has launched the Feedlot Research for Accelerated Adoption Program, a $45 million, five-year investment.

St Roch’s Parish Primary School Glen Iris

■ At St Roch’s Catholic Primary School, every child is known, valued and supported to reach their full potential.

As both an educator and a parent the principal, Angie Mastoras leads the school with warmth and purpose, drawing on over 40 years in education and a Master’s Degree majoring in Student Wellbeing. Her deep passion lies in ensuring each student experiences growth academically, socially and emotionally.

Under her leadership, St Roch’s continues to build a nurturing and faith filled learning environment where strong academic foundations sit alongside rich opportunities in the arts, sport and community engagement.

The focus is always on the individual, helping every child feel confident, connected and inspired to learn each day.

With a strong sense of community and a commitment to faith and excellence, St Roch’s Catholic Primary School is a place where curiosity is encouraged, learning is celebrated and every student can truly shine.

Selecting your child's school is a huge

■ NAME: St Roch’s Parish Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Angie Mastoras

■ ADDRESS: Greenvale Rd, Glen Iris, Vic 3146

■ PHONE: 9885 7704

■ EMAIL: mmcharg@srgleniris. catholic.edu.au

life decision. At St Roch's we help each student find their own voice and strengths giving them the best opportunities to lay a secure foundation at the beginning of their learning journey.

From Prep to year 6, we are committed to developing an environment where every child can succeed through different subjects, activities and strong leadership opportunities.

With small class sizes our teaching is designed around the individual needs and interests of students.

Our dedicated staff create communities of learning that invite questions, support students to be curious and to develop the skills and resilience then need to succeed as lifelong learners.

St Roch's remain one of the best performing Catholic primary schools. Analysis of the 2025 NAPLAN Results shows that we are among the top 7 percent of all primary schools in Victoria to achieve excellent NAPLAN results.

St Roch's is committed to child safety and providing a secure environment for all students and young people is a fundamental responsibility of all within our school.

A St Roch's education is a wonderful gift, and you are warmly invited to discover the St Roch's difference for yourself.

Angie Mastoras,

Principal

St Catherine’s Primary School Lalor West

■ At St Catherine's, Acting Principal Justine leads with a clear and compassionate philosophy: children are at the heart of everything the school does.

She believes that every decision, program, and relationship within the school community should reflect a deep commitment to the wellbeing, growth, and dignity of each child.

As a Catholic school, this belief is closely connected to the values of faith that guide daily life at St Catherine’s. Justine emphasises that faith is not only something taught in the classroom but something lived through actions and service to others.

By grounding learning and community life in Catholic teachings, the school nurtures students to grow academically, spiritually, and socially.

This vision has shaped what the community calls The St Catherine’s Way. Developed from Justine’s and the staff's beliefs about what a strong, caring school should be, it focuses on respect, inclusion,

■ NAME: St Catherine’s Primary School

■ ACTING PRINCIPAL: Justine Sapiano

■ ADDRESS: 2 Lascelles Dr, Lalor West, Vic 3075

■ PHONE: 9466 2480

■ EMAIL: jsapiano@sclalorwest. catholic.edu.au

kindness, and shared responsibility.

The St Catherine’s Way encourages students and staff to treat one another with compassion and to work together in a supportive and welcoming environment.

The school’s motto, “Everyone Belongs – One Body, One Mission,” reflects this commitment. Inspired by the Catholic understanding of community, it reminds students that each person is valued and has a role to play.

Under Justine’s leadership, St Catherine’s continues to be a place where faith, learning, and belonging are deeply connected.

St Dominic’s Primary School Camberwell

■ NAME: St Dominic’s Primary School

■ ADDRESS: 145 Highfield Rd, Camberwell, Vic 3124

PHONE: 9836 8300

WEBSITE: www.sdcamberwell east.catholic.edu.au

EMAIL: principal@sdcamberwell east.catholic.edu.au

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

Enrolling your child is a significant family decision, so it is important that you visit prospective schools, encounter their learning culture and community, and ask key questions to support your decision.

Our St Dominic’s school community is welcoming, dynamic, inclusive and highlyengaged and our children are at the heart of all we do.

Wellbeing is foundational to successful learning and our students are happy, confident, and well-supported to build meaningful connections and achieve positive learning outcomes.

This is at the core of our work. Our Dominican Charism is based on the foundations of Prayer, Learning, Service and Community; this is real, lived and celebrated each day at St Dominic’s.

We provide diverse and engaging learning programs, excellent contemporary learning spaces, we value and engage student voice, target learning support and we are proud of our caring and professional staff.

I warmly invite you and your family to “Discover the St Dom’s Differ ence” where we are so much more than a school!

■ Bernadette Venables is so proud to be the principal of St Luke’s in Lalor.

St Luke’s is a vibrant, inclusive Catholic learning community where every child is known, valued, and inspired to thrive.

Celebrating over 28 cultural backgrounds, we foster a strong sense of belonging from day one.

With high quality, explicit teaching practices and a rich, balanced curriculum - including Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and a strong Student leadership program, students are both challenged and supported to grow.

At St Luke’s, we value each child’s unique background and learning journey. Our highly motivated and knowledgeable staff work closely with families to create a supportive environment where students feel safe, respected, and inspired to learn.

Through targeted support and extension opportunities, St Luke’s builds strong literacy and numeracy foundations, empow-

■ NAME: St Luke’s Catholic Primary School

■ PRINCIPAL: Bernadette Venables

■ ADDRESS: 1A David St, Lalor, Vic 3075

■ PHONE: 9465 2099

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

ering students to become curious, capable, and compassionate individuals ready to shape the future.

Committed to our Catholic ethos, inspired by the Gospel and the life of St John Baptist Scalabrini, we are inclusive, welcoming, and multicultural.

The Catholic story is embedded across all facets of our school, ensuring a rich, inclusive and meaningful religious education for all.

We invite you to tour our amazing school and see our learning in action.

St Bernard’s College Essendon

■ St Bernard’s College is a leading Catholic Secondary school for boys founded in 1940, drawing our identity and culture from a rich Catholic tradition informed by the Charism of Edmund Rice and inspired by our patron, St Bernard of Clairvaux.

At St Bernard’s our educational experience aims to nourish our young men in all aspects of life.

We encourage and equip them to make a tangible difference in their communities and beyond—our aspiration is to bring the best of the world to Essendon and the best of Essendon to the world.

Our highly committed staff are experts in the education of young men, seeking to connect with each boy and help them thrive.

Our motto: "Discere et Agere"—"to learn and to do"—comes alive every day, whether

■ NAME: St Bernard’s College

■ PRINCIPAL: Dr Michael Davies

■ ADDRESS: 41 Rosehill Rd, Essendon, Vic 3040

■ PHONE: 9289 1000

■ WEB: www.sbc.vic.edu.au

■ EMAIL: info@sbc.vic.edu.au

in our classrooms or on a study trip halfway across the globe.

There is a tangible sense that we are a caring community where you are known and valued, where we look out for our neighbour, our colleagues and our communities.

Each aspect of our school colours and enriches our identity and makes St Bernard’s a vibrant community to which I would be proud and privileged to welcome your family.

St Aloysuius College North Melbourne

● ● ● ● St Aloysius College Principal Mary Farah emphasises that when young people feel known and valued, they flourish.

■ St Aloysius College proudly continues its transition from an all-girls school to co-education, a journey that began with the Year 7 intake in 2023.

With more than 135 years of history, the College has embraced this evolution in response to strong demand from families in Melbourne’s Inner North-West seeking a Catholic education for both sons and daughters.

Parents, students and staff have welcomed the change, shaping a culture where students thrive academically, personally and socially.

Grounded in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, the College offers a values-based education guided the values of compassion, justice, service, hospitality, respect and courage.

Following the College motto, Strive for Higher Things, St Aloysius students are supported to pursue academic excellence while developing strong character, ethical

■ NAME: St Aloysius College

■ ADDRESS: 31 Curran St, North Melbourne, Vic 3051

■ PHONE: 9325 9200

■ EMAIL: irvinem@aloysius.vic.edu.au

discernment and a deep sense of social responsibility.

A comprehensive curriculum integrates rigorous learning with the Universal Learning Program and a broad co-curricular offering across STEAM, sport, languages and the Arts.

An individualised approach recognises each student’s strengths and needs, building critical thinking, resilience and adaptability. Wellbeing is central, with programs designed to nurture confident, compassionate leaders who engage respectfully and contribute with integrity.

Enrolments for Year 7 2028 are now open, closing Friday 14 August 2026. Families are warmly invited to attend a campus tour.

Victoria Pictorial

■ Apparently when the famous Hollywood agent Henry Willson renamed his new client Robert Van Orden it was decided that the young actor’s name would become John Smith

The story goes that there were not too many Hollywood actors named John Smith at that time.

John Smith is best remembered for his roles in two television western series Cimarron City and Laramie.

Robert Errol Van Orden was born in Los Angeles, California , in 1931.

He was a direct descendent of Peter Stuyvesant. Rober t grew up on a farm and rode horses bareback in rodeos when he was six years old.

When he was still at school he started singing in St Agatha’s Parish Choir. He later joined the Bob Mitchell Boys Choir and sang with them in two Bing Crosby films – Going My Way and The Bells of St Mary’s.

He just happened to call into the office of the Hollywood agent Henry Willson to see a friend when he was noticed by Henry and this led to a film contract.

Henry Willson had already discovered Rock Hudson, Tab Hunter and Troy Donahue . Their stage names were also invented by Henry.

John was very handsome, well built and six foot three.

John Smith had his first major film role in The High and the Mighty in 1954 working with John Wayne, Robert Stack, Karen

Whatever Happened to ... the John Smith

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Sharpe and Claire Trevor. His film credits included We’reNoAngels,FriendlyPersuasion, The Kettles on Old McDonald’s Farm andIsland of Lost Women. He was a regular cast member in the television series That’s My Boy from 1954 to 1959.

John was in the western series CimmaronCity in 1958 where he shared the star billing with George Montgomery and Audrey Totter in alternating episodes.

During the filming he met actress Luanna Patten and they were married in 1960.

John and Luanna enjoyed sailing and water sports. John also was a keen deep sea diver. After Cimmaron City finished he played Slim Sherman in another television series Laramie. I enjoyed Laramie when it was shown here in Australia

Robert Fuller was his co-star and the series was in production until 1963.

In 1964 John and Luanna were divorced and John never married again. The couple still remained friends over the years.

He was a Catholic and very religious. John Smith was cast in the John Wayne film Circus World but he and the director Henry Hathaway did not get on and apparently John’s career went into decline at that point.

The roles dried up in the 1970s and he was not receiving royalties for his work in films and television.

Mary Brown became a very close friend during his later years.

Sadly John Smith died in Los Angeles in 1995 of cirrhosis of the liver at the age of 63.

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

SIX ARTISTS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Theatre Extra

The Shark Is Broken

■ Olivier Award nominated The Shark Is Broken will make its Australian debut in Melbourne from August. This fictional piece centred around the making of Jaws is described as “hilariously brilliant and pure genius” and has been co-written by Ian Shaw, the son of Jaws actor Robert Shaw

The Shark Is Broken is a razor-sharp, laugh-out-loud play about fame, failure, and friendship under pressure – an edgy, once is a lifetime theatrical treat that proves the biggest drama was never in the water.

Fade In: The open ocean, 1974. Filming is delayed … again. The lead actors—theatre veteran Robert Shaw and young Hollywood hotshots Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider - are crammed into a too-small boat, entirely at the mercy of foul weather and a faulty mechanical costar. Alcohol flows, egos collide, and tempers flare on a chaotic voyage that just might lead to cinematic magic … if it doesn’t sink them all. Casting announcements will be made in coming weeks. Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne. Thursday October 15 to Sunda November 8. Tickets from $75.

BMW Opera For All

Jessica Bendell

■ The heart of Melbourne came alive on Saturday, March 14, as record crowds from across the community gathered in Federation Square for the fourth annual BMW Opera for All concert.

This global initiative is a free, open-air celebration of community, culture, and world-class performance presented by BMW Australia in partnership with Opera Australia

Hosted by acclaimed soprano, writer, and broadcaster Greta Bradman, the evening featured four of Australia’s most celebrated opera singers and opened with a moving Welcome to Country by First Nations opera singer Shauntai Abdul-Rahman , followed by a radiant prelude performance from the Australian Girls Choir, whose harmonies set a joyful tone for the night.

The choir warmed the audience up with beautiful renditions of crowd favourites including Christine Anu’s My Island Home and the Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell classic Aint No Mountain Opera Australia's Julie Lea Goodwin, Stephen Marsh, Asher Reichman and Emily Edmonds then took to the stage to perform beloved arias alongside 20 musicians from Orchestra Victoria , conducted by the renowned Brian Castles-Onion

As the sun set over Melbourne’s skyline, the audience was treated to a rich program of operatic favourites, showcasing the power, passion, and accessibility of live performance at its best. Asher Reichman brought the house down with a thundering rendition of Nessun Dorma prompting the crowd to cry ‘bravo’ into the night sky.

BMW Group Australia CEO Vikram Pawah said the event embodies the company’s values of creativity, connection, and cultural investment: “Music has a unique ability to bring people together and create shared experiences that transcend background or language. BMW Opera for All reflects our commitment to enriching communities and ensuring everyone can experience the joy of live opera.”

Opera Australia CEO Alex Budd said: “As we celebrate 70 years of Opera Australia, it’s been wonderful to partner again with BMW to make opera accessible to all - whether it’s someone’s first aria or their 50th. The energy from the crowd tonight showed just how deeply Melburnians value the arts.”

Now in its fourth year, BMW Opera for All continues to grow as one of Melbourne’s most anticipated annual cultural events, building on previous attendances and its global reputation with performances in cities such as Munich, Berlin and London

Familial brings together six artists from around the world, whose work traces the emotional and psychological terrain of family – of bonds and sculptures, tenderness, harmony and the ache of absence.

Presented by the Centre for Contemporary Photography this exhibition reflects the complexities of connection in a meditation on love, longing and the enduring imprints of our closest relationships we leave behind.

Season closes April 25.

★

Precious Fibres

Transformative and thought-provoking, Maryam Ebtekar and Michelle Trewin reimagine everyday household litter as artworks that are meaningful, beautiful and enduring.

Ebtekar challenges perception of craft, value and assumption by creating sculptural and wearable works from recycled paper pulp.

Drawing on her Italian heritage she takes inspiration from the intricate patterns of Persian architecture, reinterpreting these forms in a contemporary, eco-conscious context.

Season closes March 21.

Town Hall Gallery

360 Burwood Rd., Hawthorn

Bunjil Place

The Offbeat Sari

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

It brings together the finest saris of our time from designers, weavers and craft people of India

In recent years the sari has been reinvented. Designers are experimenting with hybrid forms each as sari gowns, and dresses, pre-draped sari innovative materials such as steel.

People in cities who were used to associate the sari with dressing up can now be found wearing saris and sneakers on their commutes to work.

Individuals are wearing the sari as an expression of resistance to social norms ansd activists are embodying it as an object of protest.

Featuring more than 50 saris by India’s most renowned designers, the exhibition includes highlights such as glamorous designs of Sabyasachi, Dikshna Khanna, Abu Jani Sandrrp Khosla and Tarun Tahiani , innovative garments by Anamika Khanna, Abraham Sc /Thakore, raw Margo and Rimzam Dadu, and the iconic ot-pink sari of the Gulabi gang – a poweful symbol of resistance in India.

Exhibition closes Sunday August 30. Bunjil Place 2 Pat Rily Northeast Dve. Narre Warren

The Arts

With Peter Kemp

marks the first solo exhibition in Australia by Australian-Danish artists Rhoda Ting and Mikkel Bojjesen, offering an early survey of their collaborative practice.

Working across sculpture, film, photography, and living installations, the exhibition asks where nature ends and technology begins.

They propose that thus boundary has never been as clear as we imagined. Hybridity, the mixing and merging of things we once thought separate, is not something arriving from the future, it is already the condition of the world we live in.

The works move across scales, both vast and microscopic. Soft robots breathe among volcanic rock and symbiotic cultures inhabit natural areas by industry,

Fungi and microbes grow inside glass sculptures and Petri dishes forming structures that suggest intelligence beyond human understanding.

Industrial materials meet foraged plants and ocean environments, producing forma that are allowed to happen rather than designed.

Glass towers hold 12,000-year-old Arctic seabed sediment, connecting us to deep geological time. A sculpture generated through artificial intelligence combines DNA data from multiple species into imagined organisms that feel strangely plausible.

Exhibition closes April 18.

Peter Kemp

Perceval exhibition

■ Heide Museum of Modern Art has unveiled John Perceval: All That We Are, the first major survey exhibition of works by the maverick Australian artist John Perceval since 1992. Curated by Heide’s Head Curator Kendrah Morgan , the exhibition is now showing in the Main Galleries until July 12. This exhibition continues Heide’s longstanding commitment to artists of the Heide Circle, following a series of significant exhibitions presented over the past two decades. John Perceval: All That We Are brings together more than 100 works spanning three decades, drawn from significant public and private collections, including several masterpieces that have rarely been seen.

Adam at Hallam

■ Aussie country music star Adam Harvey brings his Working Overtime Tour to the Hallam Hotel on Friday, May 29, commencing 7pm. Touring nationally in May and June to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his Working Overtime album, this live show will feature many of those tracks. All of Adam’s hits and other classic country songs will also resonate and are sure to bring back some nostalgic memories. Tickets at Oztix.com.au

Band of Rain

■ I Love You Whatever is the new single release for a Band Of Rain, the two piece alt-country group based in Melbourne’s country and western suburbs. It’s the first single from the album, Here’s Trouble arriving in June. Our songs range from funny toe-tappers to melodic ballads. Katrina says. She adds: “ Stuart and I met online during COVID. We realised that starting a band would be a fun way to annoy my kids and so far so good. The duo will be appearing at Cresfest in April, and at the Newport Folk Festival in June.

Basin Music Festival

■ The 21st Basin Music Festival will play out over March 20-22 at a number of different locations throughout the town.

A family fun filled event is promoted that will feature over 100 performers inclusive of choirs, bands and other musical acts. More info https:// www.tbmf.org.au/

Riddle of Wash Pool Gully

■ Gasworks Creative Precinct announces the Melbourne s eason of The Riddle of Washpool Gully, presented by Dead Puppets Society from April 8-11.

“Far beyond the outskirts of the big city, near a tiny town that nearly everyone forgot, lies a dry creek bed once known as Washpool Gully

“The world may have moved on from insignificant places –but something in Washpool Gully is stirring.

“Shaken by the rumble of engines and the darkening of the sky, something long asleep has decided to wake up.”

Combining old-fashioned storytelling with contemporary puppetry and miniature sets, The Riddle of Washpool Gully is a story of forgotten places, curious creatures and the fragile magic of the natural world –brought to life with remarkable craftsmanship, heart and theatrical invention.

Following celebrated seasons nationally including at QPAC and Adelaide Festival Centre, the production arrives in Melbourne with an impressive list of accolades, including Tasmanian Theatre Awards for Best Set or Costume Design and Best Sound Design, plus nominations for Best Ensemble and Best New Writing.

Adding to the school holiday fun, Dead Puppets Society will deliver hands-on creative workshops for young people aged 10+. on Thursday April 9 and Friday April 10. Places are limited.

An AUSLAN -interpreted performance will take place on Saturday April 11, including a tactile tour prior to the performance.

Performance Dates: April 8 - 11 Venue: Gasworks Creative Precinct, Melbourne Tickets and workshop bookings available now via www.gasworks.org.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Art of the Score

■ Art of the Score: The Music of James Horner will be performed at 7.30pm on Friday, March 28 and Saturday, March 28, and 2pm on Sunday, March 29. Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne.

Conductor Nicholas Buc , with co-hosts Andrew Pogson and Dan Golding, offer insights into Horner’s creative world, joined by Helpmann and Sydney Theatre Award winner Amy Lehpamer, the Australian Girls Choir and the full force of the MSO

World record

■ Micah , a young resident of Melbourne , has achieved an extraordinary feat by securing a Kids World Record for Most Balloon Keep-Ups in one minute on Thursday (Mar. 12). The achievement will feature in the 2027 edition of the Kids World Record Book, says publisher Emile Hoffman.

Dandenong

Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Wednesday, March 25

Agati, Anthony Akyol, Ahmet Alaridi, Rony Alizada, Mohammad Allah-Yari, Tayab Anwarshah, Sayed Firooz Assogba, Judith Astell, Patrick Atkinson, Michael Bayani, Farhad Beiljok, Kuachjan Benson, Taylah Bidgood, Anthony Brima, Emmanuel Carrig, Lucy Chavez, Cesar Ciric, Ivan Clack, Cori Collins, Peter Shane Crane, Shari June Daniel, Joseph Dawson, Daniel De Marchi, Melissa Defa, Sembeta Deng, Chol Dogan, Jeton Edrisinha, Winston Lester Entima, Levi Epiha, Nau Tupe Fados, David Falefitu, Jaccob Fassott, Travis Fonoti, Dan Uili Galley, Kody Grech, Mathew Green, Carol Green, Lawrence Grippi, Matthew Ha, Pham Tuan Hilyear, Andrew Isikli, Ali Iv, Tony Kamal, Joseph Karimi, Dost Kaskarevska, Zaklina Kinsey, Brendan Mark Kirigna, Emmanuel Kiss, George Knight, Wendy Irene Kong, Lenny Koudsi, Mohammed Kyle, Joel La, Trinh Lambert, Kara Lawson-Pepper, Rowan Linton, David William Lu, Linda Ludekens, Daniel Mabour, Akol Deng Magock, Franco Maina, David Mcclutchi, James Mclaughlin, Eamie Monssen, Jason Mouat, Barnaba Murukaiya, Theepan Neindorf, Warren Philip Nervosa, Italo Newbury, Renee O'neill, Therese Palatinus, Oscar Pauu, Teneil Proctor, Robert Rajaee, Mahdi Reed, Kobe Ruhl, Natalie Marie Samuels, Samuel Selimoski, Jack Selimoski, Zekirija Sfiry, Rachael Sidhu, Naranjan Sidhu Sim, Callum William Singh, Harjit Sivapalan, Arkarshan Solak, Maison Darius Spezza, Angela Stark, Ebony Michelle Stewart, Trent Sean Syed Suhail Ahmed, Syed Symons, Matthew Sean Tabberner, Mark Talaipa, Welfare Tandy, Benjamin James Terrick, Craig Tran, Hoang Usman, Mohammad Vigilante, Bradley Warren Virgona, Jarred Vukasovic, Kira Wakefield, Damon Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, March 25 Ahmed, Junnun Ali, Faizan

Amuketi, Thomas Arcus, Max

Armitt, Jodie Armstrong, Louis Ayers, Joanne Maree Balazo, Aristotle Boswell, Michael Bourke, Brendan Bourke, Tony Boxall, Jasmyn Cabrera, Joeselito Ceylan, Nejat Chain, Kristian Mark Deane, Dimitri Delalic, Kenan Dorey, Marc Elhan, Ismail Fan, Ming Fellows, Samantha Gill, Samantha Giron, Jose Miguel Hammon, Jade Nathan Hanna, David Brian Jason, Rosalyn Johnson, Daniel Kehayais, Bill Lauder, Alysha Lemiere, Roger Leyton, Gustov Mclaughlin, Scott Mcmaster, Coco Mcmillan, Benjamin Robert Nguyen, Hoa Thi Otieno, Beryl Pallot, Rohan Petrovic, Arly Polman, Russell Scerri, Mark Schvarts, Genna Shaw, Jay Shipton, Thomas Leslie Sime, Brendan John Singh, Sukhmanpreet Skopellos, Niki Smith, Codie Smith, Doug Smith, Michael David Smyth, Sean Francis Sommerville, Ronald Swiers, Wade Tran, Van Son Walimbe, Shailesh Wang, Shengqiong Zuccala, Giovanni Giuseppe Dromana Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Thursday, March 26 Buckley, Shane George Clarke, Jason Paul Coyle, Felicity D'angelo, Michael Finlay, Michael Fraser, Jessica Gagovski, David Genc, Dilan Glover, Lily Grech, Jeromme John Hallett-Smith, Jennifer Doris Hennessy, Glen Raymond Holton, Jennifer Lyndal Knights, Daniel Vere Lawrence, Skye Le Brun, Lachlan Maule, Thomas Galbaly Mcmillan, Vincent O'neil, Jamie Ottobre, Cody Owen, Brian Poynter, Molly-Mae Margaret Ristrom, Jonathan Charles Robertson, Troy Rock 'N Stone Pty Ltd Slater, Kaiben Spoor, Rebecca Stern, Kelly Stroud, Jesse Takenaga, Penelope Tatsis, Victor Tobin, Raphael Vlahos, Mathew Wattie, Stephen Wharton, Jackson David

Pursuit arrests

■ Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man and woman following a pursuit on Friday. Police spotted an allegedly stolen Nissan X-Trail in Port Melbourne about 4.15pm. The occupants are alleged to have fled on foot at South Yarra but were arrested nearby. A 44year-old Doncaster man has been charged with multiple offences. A 34-year-old Brunswick woman was charged with multiple offences including theft of motor vehicle, handle stolen goods and possess drug of dependence.

Drugs, cars seized

■ Police have charged a man and seized an array of drugs, several vehicles and ammunition in Cranbourne on Wednesday afternoon (Mar. 18).

Officers were called to reports of a man and woman behaving suspiciously at an unoccupied property on Lochview Green about 7.30pm.

Police located the pair and they were taken into custody.

The property was searched and officers seized:

■ a Ford Falcon ute allegedly stolen in Endeavour Hills between March 6-10

■ a Subaru WRX allegedly stolen in Patterson Lakes on March 17

■ a Kia GT displaying allegedly stolen registration plates

■ a Yamaha WR offroad motorcycle

■ approximately 15 grams of methylamphetamine

■ approximately 50 ecstasy tablets

■ quantities of GHB and prescription medications

■ a large amount of allegedly stolen ID cards

■ drug paraphernalia

■ ammunition

The 33-year-old man from Dromana has been charged with traffick drug of dependence, handle stolen goods and theft of motor vehicle.

He was remanded to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court.

A 34-year-old Mornington woman was released pending further enquiries.

Quarterly report

■ Casey Mayor, Cr Stefan Koomen, said the quarterly report reflects Council’s strong focus on delivering for the community.

“This report shows the real progress we’re making in delivering the projects, services and facilities our community needs now and into the future,” Cr Koomen said.

“We’re continuing to invest in roads, community spaces and local services while planning for a growing population, and it’s encouraging to see so many initiatives tracking well.

“We remain committed to being transparent and accountable, and to keeping our community informed every step of the way.”

Council’s $149 million Capital Works Program continues to deliver important infrastructure, with approximately 260 projects planned for the 2025/26 financial year, Cr Koomen said.

“These investments are supporting growing communities with improved facilities, roads, and recreational spaces.

During the quarter, significant progress was made on major capital works projects including advancing projects such as the Ballarto Road Family and Community Centre, Doveton Pool redevelopment, and Ernst Wanke Road pedestrian signals.

Nine projects were completed, including upgrades at Hallam Tennis Pavilion, Barry Simon Reserve playground, and local road improvements in Cranbourne

Sand sculpting

■ More than 400 tonnes of sand will transform Frankston Waterfront into an openair gallery when the Australian Sand Sculpting Championships return from Saturday (Mar. 28) to Sunday, April 26.

Presented by Sandstorm Events and sponsored by EastLink, the Championships are supported by Frankston City Council through its Destination Event Attraction Program.

This year’s theme, The Enchanted Realm, will bring fairytale castles, soaring dragons and mythical creatures to life at McCombs Reserve — each sculpted in astonishing detail.

Across eight high-intensity days, artists will carve 18 large-scale masterpieces in the Championships’ most ambitious season yet. Every sculpture will be completed before opening day, giving visitors access to the full exhibition from the moment gates open.

Fifteen solo artists will compete for the prestigious Aidan J Graham Australian Champion title, including 10 of Australia’s finest sculptors and five international contenders. With the spotlight on individual artistry, this year’s format celebrates skill, precision and creativity.

Tom and Jenni chase Aust. Cup win

■ Flemington racecourse has been the setting for many amazing victories which have defied the odds.

After all, this is the home of the Melbourne Cup , where lesser performed horses get their chance against the very best stayers under handicap conditions.

However, the Australian Cup to be run this Saturday (Mar. 28) is a weight-for-age event over 2000 metres.

So, champions of the turf don’t have to concede weight to other gallopers of the same age and sex and often win this Group 1 event.

In 1987, Bonecrusher got up on the line to defeat At Talaq in a thrilling finish.

This legendary New Zealander would attempt back-to-back success the following year, in what was promoted as a clash between Bonecrusher and the exciting frontrunner Vo Rogue

Vo Rogue would go on to win the Australian Cup in 1989 and 1990.

In 1988, Vo Rogue adopted his usual tactic of clearing out from the rest of the field early, establishing a lead of around seven lengths in the middle stages of the race. Bonecrusher was left to do the chasing.

Still giving Vo Rogue a sizeable start 400 metres from home, it was clear the Kiwi was finding it hard to reduce the margin. Then, from well back, a lone horse appeared to be making some ground on the outside.

Despite being five to six lengths astern with 200 metres to go, the 125/1 ($126) outsider Dandy Andy stormed home, passing Vo Rogue to win by one and a half lengths, with Bonecrusher almost five lengths farther behind in third place. Could we see something similar play out this year?

The following horses are among those who can lay claim to the Cup :

Tom Kitten

Ran down Pride Of Jenni to win the AllStar Mile . Although both horses have scored Group 1 wins over 2000 metres, like Pride Of Jenni, Tom Kitten would generally be considered better suited at 1600 metres. However, if given an economical run and not produced until late, he may prove the hardest to hold out.

Pride Of Jenni

Tearaway leaders are few and far between, but this much-loved mare has been thrilling the crowds with that style of racing in recent years.

She couldn’t establish a break of more than three lengths on the opposition when first-up over 1600 metres in the All-Star Mile yet was only beaten half a length into third place. She will set up the race to be a cracking contest.

Birdman

Continued his fine form with victory in the Peter Young Stakes. Travelled well in the run and ultimately scored a soft win. Ideally suited stepping up to this trip, having won his past two starts over 1600 and then 1800 metres. This is his best chance of collecting a Group 1 win since arriving from Ireland

Apulia

Whatever you do, do not leave this horse out of your calculations. Has come through the same lead-up races as Birdman and not beaten far in both. This is much more suitable.

Rod Basto

Bookmaking

■ What was once part of the fabric of Australian racing, is rarely experienced by today’s racegoers.

The betting ring was vibrant and colourful. Bookmakers on their stands, supported by skilled staff, offering odds to punters competing for the best price before each race.

It was an interactive and immersive theatrical setting with real-life financial consequences.

The rivalry between the biggest bookmakers along the rails and their satchel swinger colleagues in the rows opposite and elsewhere on the course, provided punters with a robust marketplace.

Today, corporate bookmakers cater to

the punting public through websites and applications (apps) mostly downloaded onto mobile phones.

There are close to 150 apps currently available on which bets can be placed. Although this is an oversupply, it pales into insignificance when compared to the thousands of on-course Bookmakers who once plied their trade at racetracks around the country. Some betting companies operate multiple brands and there is a small number of technology providers underpinning most.

This has resulted in a business ecosystem with very little variation in pricing and not in the interest of punters.

It has taken an old school bookmaker to emerge on the scene in the digital space to provide traditional customer service and competitiveness.

Bet Legends is based in Melbourne , owned and operated by Shaun Beirne, a bookmaker with a long-standing involvement in racing and wagering.

His approach to take on runners he considers to be under the odds, by pushing their price out significantly, makes for fascinating viewing on the platform each race day.

Not only that, but the rewards are great anytime these horses win and you have taken advantage.

Horses To Follow

■ Cavalry

■ Miss Chanel

■ Easy Red

■ Oliveanotherday

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, March 25: Sandown Lakeside

■ Thursday, March 26: Warrnambool, Pakenham

■ Friday, March 27: Bendigo, Cranbourne

■ Saturday, March 28: Flemington, Kyneton, Healesville

■ Sunday, March 29: Sale, Avoca

■ Monday, March 30: Ararat

■ Tuesday, March 31: Kilmore

DEBUT FOR TWO AT MARYBOROUGH

■ Popular Maryborough was the venue to commence the week on Monday March 16 and Harkness (Melton) trainer Joe Pace snared the quinella in the Aldebaran Park 2Y0 Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres with Classic Connection-The Cooler gelding Insulator defeating Majestic Lord with both horses making their race debut.

Driven by Joe rarely seen in the sulky these days, Insulator starting from the pole was best to begin and never headed recorded a big 16 metre margin over Majestic Lord (gate three - Adrian Pace) which gave away an impossible start after galloping wildly in the score up making up lengths on his rivals.

Donnyosko (gate two which galloped on the first turn when trailing the winner came from the rear along the sprint lane for third 6.9 metres away. The mile rate 201.5.

■ The result of the 2190 metre Nev Fitzpatrick Member Trotters Mobile was a family affair when Sutton Grange trainer Ross Graham’s 8Y0 Tell All-Poets Glory gelding Whats The Tea driven by James Herbertson defeated honest 10Y0 Louey Louey Louey-Telern Tilly gelding Charlie Walker trained at Lawrence by stepfather Ken Whelan.

Settling three back in the moving line as Massive Central (gate three) led for Tristan Larsen, the race changed complexion in the back straight on the first occasion when Alby Ashwood sent Charlie Walker with full stream up to race clear prior to the bell.

Whats The Tea also commencing forward move to race parked from the bell. Driven with extreme confidence, Whats The Tea claimed Charlie Walker over the concluding stages to record a 2.7 metre victory (his 10th from 153 outings) in a mile rate of 2-03.4. Massive Central held third 9.7 metres back.

■ Ultra consistent 9Y0 Mach ThreeKateeshar gelding Shaq having start 227 was victorious in the Sandra Mayall Member Pace over 2190 metres.

Trained by Charlton’s John Tormey from his Bendigo stable, Shaq driven by Jack Laugher, Shaq after starting from the extreme draw followed through to be midfield, but was left exposed after Regal Rock (gate six), Optimal (gate seven) and Ittakeslove (gate two) all vied for the front running as the start was effected with Ittakeslove striding clear with both Optimal and Regal Rock challenging and Regal Rock eventually crossing the inside pair.

Assuming control prior to the final bend, Shaq raced away to score by 9.5 metres in advance of Optimal and Impeached (four pegs from inside the second line) which used inside runs for third 1.2 metres back. Bred and raced by Melbourne’s Kevin Clark a longtime friend of trainer Tormey, Shaq returned a mile rate of 1-57.1.

■ Ararat trainer/driver Michael Bellman’s smart 7Y0 Tennotrump-Gloriadon gelding Blackrange Glory second up since September, was successful in the Bart Stiles Member Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres. Trotting away smoothly, Blackrange Glory was kept in his gate midfield in the running line as Dreams Of Love (gate three) led with Te Amo (gate six) outside him.

Following up Midnite Muscle (gate two second line) forward three wide in the last lap, Blackrange Glory was left stranded three wide before joining Midnite Muscle now outside the leader on the home turn with the pair racing clear of their rivals. Nursed to the wire, Blackrange Glory finished best to gain the day by 1.6 metres in a mile rate of 1-59.4 over Midnite Muscle, with The Chook (four markers from outside the front line) running on late for third 3.2 metres away.

■ It was only a matter of time before Camperdown father and son Gary and Darryl Lawlor’s home bred Vincent-Shady Creek gelding Colosimo broke his maiden status and it happened in the Benstud Standardbreds Graduation Series 3Y0 Pace (1st Heat) over 2190 metres.

Having start number four, Colosimo (gate three) settled one/one as Kiwi bred Bettor Punter from the extreme draw gained a great run through the field to assume control hitting the back straight on the first occasion crossing polemarker Miss Doobee.

After a cosy passage one/one, Colosimo eased three wide in the last lap to dash

away on turning and score by a neck from Black Opal Jack (one/two - three wide last lap from outside front line – four wide home turn) in a 1-59.2 mile rate. Arzali Rockstar (gate five – five pegs) ran on late when clear for third 2.8 metres away.

Shepparton

■ Shepparton’s regular Tuesday meeting produced some exciting racing on a eight race card which saw the Byrnside stable of Damian and Laura Wilson snare a double when first starter Our Sweet Jeannie, a Sweet Lou-Shake It Mama) filly was successful in the Celebrating Gordon Warner Maiden Pace over 2190 metres and 9Y0

Danny Bouchea-No Dispute mare Settle The Bill the Celebrating Vin McConnell Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres.

Our Sweet Jeannie (Damian) led from gate three for the majority of the trip after crossing Interestinme (gate five) to run out an easy 6.2 metre victor in a 1-59.4 mile rate over Interestinme, with Alcatraz Miss (extreme draw – mid-field in the running line) third 1.7 metres away.

Settle The Bill (Laura) possied three back in the moving line from gate six with Cameron Maggs and Straight To The Top (gate four) going for a hat-trick of wins leading.

Going forward three wide solo in the last lap, Settle The Bill outstayed his rivals to register a tough head margin from a deathseating Manda Kyvalley (outside front line) returning a 2-00.2 mile rate.

Straight To The Top held third 1.7 metres back after being grabbed in the shadows of the post.

■ Tatura duo Craig and Abbey Turnbull combined to land the Celebrating Kath Muir Pace over 1690 metres with 9Y0 Courage Under Fire-Star Of Indianna mare Roam who last victory had been in September 2024.

Raced by Andrea Pollock and the Estate Of Wayne Hayes, Roam was given a sweet passage one/one from gate two by Abbey and after angling three wide on the final bend, ran home best to blouse the pacemaker Mussel Shoals (gate four) by a head in the last bound. Highview Hammer after leading out from gate three before trailing was third 2.4 metres away. The mile rate 156.5.

■ Kilmore’s Corey Bell made amends for Highview Hammer’s third by taking the 1690 metre Celebrating Ben & Anne O’Donoghue Pace with 5Y0 Art Major-Jazz Opera gelding Major Maurie.

Raced by Corey in partnership with fiancé Allanah Logie and her mother Gaye, Major Maurie was another to enjoy a cosy passage one/one from gate four and after angling three wide on the final bend, ran home nicely to account for a death-seating Clives Girl (gate three) by 3.7 metres. Bouy (extreme draw – one/two – three wide trail home turn – four wide in the straight) was third a half head away. The mile rate 1-57.2.

■ Seventy year old Bullengarook owner/ trainer Bruce Donaldson was successful with 6Y0 Tintin In America-Weliveinhope gelding Zu Hoffen in the 1690 metre Celebrating Eddie and Carmel Walsh Pace giving ‘Herbie’ a double on the night. Caught in the open from outside the front line as Alcatraz Girl (gate five) crossed Ringer Russ (gate four), Zu Hoffen ended up one/ one for the last lap after Ewa Justice sent Home And Dry (solo second line) forward

from the tail to race exposed racing for the bell. Easing three wide on the home turn, Zu Hoffen finished his race off well to prevail by 3.5 metres from Parisian Bandit (gate two – one/two) and Home And Dry who was a neck away third. The mile rate 1-59.3.

Bendigo

■ It was Bendigo on Wednesday and Maiden Gully part-owner Maree Campbell’s 4Y0 Skyvalley-Photogenic Too gelding Butlers Wharf was impressive in taking the Gold Central Victoria Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2150 metres.

Driven by Josh Duggan, Butlers Wharf was slowly away from gate three on the second line in the score up, then checked at the start before settling three back in the moving line with Aldebaran Denbay (extreme draw) fast away to surge forward and cross the poleline leader Lynesha Larian after a number of horses galloped.

Sent forward three wide in the last lap, Butlers Wharf was able to momentarily drop into the one/one on the back of Farstar (gate two second line) prior to the home turn which had made a move to race outside the leader.

No sooner had Farstar raced to a narrow lead on the final bend, Butlers Wharf driven a treat raced clear and held a margin to the wire 7.6 metres clear of Farstar who was gallant in defeat. Lynesha Larain held her ground for third 4.6 metres back. The mile rate 2-03.6.

■ Romsey trainer/driver Chris Svanosio’s 4Y0 Tactical Landing-Kyvalley Kyrie entire Kyvalley Judge was a gigantic winner of the 2150 metre Aldebaran Park Trotters Mobile.

Taken back from gate four to settle at the tail as Karakajack Tooth led from the pole. With no moves until the last lap, Mac Flick was first to make a move three wide from mid-field with both Aldebaran Susanne (one/three) and Kyvalley Judge trailing but a long way off the leaders.

Taken wide in the home running, Kyvalley Judge looked to be in trouble before producing a withering burst of speed over the concluding stages to defeat Aldebaran Susanne by 1.4 metres in a 2-01.3 mile rate, with Tictok (gate six – one/two) running her usual honest race for third 2.8 metres away.

■ Mount Camel (Bendigo District) partowner/trainer/driver Steve Owen was victorious with 7Y0 Always B Miki-Misty Forever mare Always Sky High in the Oxley Feed Mill Trotters Mobile over 2150 metres, returning to the winners list for the first time since January 2004. Settling one/two from gate two after Patnwill flew away from outside the front line to lead easily, Always Sky High ran home best to score by 1.2 metres from Playa Del Carmen (gate six) which had followed her throughout, with Heart Of Graceland (four pegs from inside the second line) third 1.7 metres away after extricating wide on turning. The mile rate 203.4.

■ Echuca trainer Wayne Lear engaged Nathan Jack to drive the Noel Tyndall bred and raced 5Y0 Sportswriter-Crocodile Tears gelding Crocodile Blood to victory in the Garrards Horse and Hound Maiden Pace over 1650 metres breaking his maiden status at start number 25. Given an easy time one/one from gate five as both Seaside Lady (gate three) and Opertiser (gate four) went head and head, Crocodile Blood after extricating wide on turning ran home best to gain the day by a head from Seaside Lady who was so brave. Whirily Maurz (three pegs) from inside the second line used the sprint lane for third a further head away. The mile rate 1-56.7.

Ballarat

■ At Ballarat on Thursday, Cape Clear part-owner/trainer Bernie Alder was successful with 9Y0 Americal Ideal-Perffezione mare Skyz Above who did punters no favour as she paid a massive dividend of $101.

With Blake Pace in the sulky, Skyz Above enjoyed a cosy trip from gate two trailing the leader Littleblabbermouth which began fast from gate five. Angling off the leaders back on the home turn, Skyz Above raced away in the straight to record a 14.8 metre victory over Littleblabbermouth and

This Week

■ Wednesday - Bendigo, Thursday –Kilmore, Friday – Mildura/Terang (Cup) Saturday – Melton, Sunday –Cranbourne, Monday – Maryborough, Tuesday – Swan Hill.

Bond Girl (gate three) which used inside runs from five pegs for third a nose away. It was Skyz Above’s fifth success in 41 outings returning a mile rate of 1-59.7.

■ Meredith trainer Carson Millar does a good job with his small team and landed the Flying Horse Entertainment Venue Pace over 1710 metres with former NSW and Tasmanian 7Y0 Always B Miki-Well Hello Dolly gelding Morris Brown in a 156.7 mile rate.

Driven with confidence by Western District reinsman Lochie Cook, Morris Brown slotted in nicely one/one from gate five with Tukurua leading from gate three.

Vacating the prime spot racing for the bell to park outside the pacemaker giving Muselet (gate four) one/one cover after racing in the open, Morris Brown ran home strongly to score by 2.7 metres over polemarker Foregone Conclusion which angled wide on turning. Muselet held third 4.5 metres away.

■ Six year old Sunshine Beach-Wattabout A Smile gelding Heatseeker was ultra impressive in taking the 2200 metre Woodlands Stud Pace.

On a big night for Meredith, Heatseeker (Ewa Justice) trained in partnership by Emmett and Richard Brosnan led throughout from gate two, blitzing his rivals to greet the judge 7.6 metres clear of Lambro Mach (gate four – one/two – wide home turn) which indicated that a win isn’t too far away. Where Is Woody (gate three – one/ four) made up many yards for third 6 metres back. The mile rate 1-58.8.

■ Ballan based mother and daughter Dianne Giles and Leilana Justice are going great guns at present, chalking up another winner when DownbytheseasideMiss Hooligan filly Rebel By The Sea led all of the way from gate two in the 1710 metre CUB Fillies & Mares Maiden Pace.

Dictating terms to a nicety, Rebel By The Sea defied all challengers to record a 6.3 metre margin in advance of Jacquelyn Joy (gate four – one/one) and first starter All In Tigerpie from near last after being restrained from outside the front line who was third albeit 16.1 metres back. The mile rate 1-57.9.

Melton

■ An interesting meeting was held at Melton on Friday which saw Toolern Vale based trainer Adam Kelly in the winners circle following a recent stint in NSW when Kiwi bred ex-former Sydneysider 4Y0 Always B Miki-Delightful Deal mare Kiss Me Mini scored in the Hygain Edge Pace over 2240 metres. Driven by Jordan Leedham who has been in great form of late, Kiss Me Mini was given an easy time one/one from gate two on the second line as Good Day (gate three) led before surrendering to Pistol Pearce (gate four) with the favourite Tappy (gate two) in the open. Angling three wide on the final bend, Kiss Me Mini ran on best to record a 2.5 metre margin over Pistol Pearce, with Good Day a game third 8 metres back. The mile rate 1-56.4.

■ Jordon Leedham was to bring up a double after guiding Charlton trainer Tori Hutchins 7Y0 Bettors Delight-Ultimate JJ gelding Rakero Warrior to victory in the 2240 metre APG Trotters Mobile returning a 2-00.4 mile rate. Settling four back in the moving line from the extreme draw as old timer Buslin Brody (outside front row) was sent forward to take over from Jakarta (gate four), Rakero Warrior was set alight with a rush racing for the bell to cross and lead for the final circuit.

Len Baker

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BIKE. Ladies. Purple. Helmet, pump, basket. Friction Huffy make. VGC. $100. Pakenham. 5940 5018 K-N AIR CON. Portable. Moratti Elite. EC. $50. Thomastown. 0431 367 868.K-N

BOAT. Savage Escort. Open with canopy. Powered with Mercury 90HP and Aux 8HP Mariner. Regretfulc sale. GC. $6500. Aspendale. 0428 984 050.I-L

BOOKS. Louis Lamour ‘Frontier’ and ‘Wild West of Louis Lamour’. These are illustrated, not novels. Very collectable. EC. Best offer. Mornington. 5975 3609. I-L

MANUALS. Gregorys. Mazda 626. Near new. Camira JB Series. VGC. $20 each. Glenroy. 9306 7628. I-L

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CRAFT BOOKS. ‘Tatting Illustrated’ and ‘How to Paint on China’. EC inside. ‘Tatting’ has worn dust cover. $25 for two. Glenroy. 9306 7628.I-L

DINING CHAIRS. Eight, leather. Frames, EC. Some chairs need recovering. Chocolate brown leather. $100 lot. FC. Assorted prices. Marysville. 0417 337 424.F-I

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DOLL MAKING PARAPHERNALIA. Lots of wigs, shoes, hand made clothes. UFOs, etc. New cond. $250. Whittlesea. 716 1881.H-K

DVDs. 350+. Some new. Hot Rod Street Classic, Motor Bike Shows. 1956 and 2020 movies. Cars, war, romance, Aussie crime, Western, Nature. Box sets. VHS. Planet of the Apes. More. Also Cassettes, Music. VGC. $200 or best offer. Healesville. 5962 6219.I-L

FOOTBALL BOOKS. ‘Paperbacks. ‘Polly Farmer’, 1964 and ‘Sheeds’, A Touch of Cunning’, 1995. $18 for two. Glenroy. 9306 7628.I-L

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Kara Kar. Rego until may 28, 2026. Side window vent, day yard included. Reliablem roadworthy. Fantastic condition. $15,000. Richmond. 0434 974 072.F-I

JEEP. 1943. Willys Army. Mech good. Original. Needs painting. No VIN or chassis number. Engine no is C16411. FC. $10,000. Wandong. 0418 399 261. K-N

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Until Sunday, March 29. Open Thurs-Sun, weekly, 10am - 6pm. The Allure of Gold – All that glitters exhibition. A solo exhibition by Melbourne-based artist Ling, marks 10 years of The Allure of Gold. Transforming discarded objects into gold-coated sculptures, it challenges perceptions of value, materialism, and status within a Fitzroy warehouse gallery. entry. 15 Kerr Street, Fitzroy. 0422 259 902. Email lg1id@live.com.au Website: https:// www.linger.id/the-allure-ofgold-all-that-glitters

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Monday, April 6-Sunday, April 19 (not performing Wednesdays). 6.15pm. Theatre/PlayMelbourne International Comedy Festival. Gumboot Theatre Company. In a new play inspired by Real confessions, 'Confessional' showcases the hilarious and confusing thoughts we have when we lust over someone. In a comedic sketch-style exploration of love, it brings to light the community we find through confession. Tickets: $16.88-$31.23. 432 Queen Street, Melbourne. contact@gumboottheatre. com.au. https:// www.comedyfestival.com.au/ browse-shows/confessional/ March 23-April 5, Daily, 5.45PM. Why Are You Here? Melbourne International Comedy Festival. A Bronwyn Isaac's debut at Melbounre International Comedy Festival, and it's a show that catches flights AND feelings! $34.30. The Motley Spielhaus. Phone: 9245 3700. Email: bronwynariel@gmail.com. Web: https://www. facebook.com/ profile.php?id= 61588374243391

Thursday, April 16. 4.30pm. Lower Power Bills Expo. Smart Energy Council. Learn how to lower your power bills at this free community event. Meet trusted local providers, explore solar, batteries, EV charging and electric appliances, and connect with community groups for support. Includes short talks, exhibitions, and light multicultural refreshments. All welcome. Free. Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC), South Morang.

FIRST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH. 11.30am. Laughter Yoga. Nunawading Laughter Yoga group. LOLJoin our laughter session to discover the benefits of laughter. It can reduce stress, improve your mood while having interaction with others.nteraction. Free. Tuntable Park, Luckie St. Nunawading. Phone: 0414 518 820. EmailL: jennylouise21@gmail.com

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Melbourne Classifieds 9489 2222

WHAT’S ON

Sport Premier

■ Firsts. Two Days. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 21-22. St Kilda 1st XI 10/291 v Footscray 1st XI 10/236. Melbourne 1st XI 8/267 v Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 9-d/348.

■ Seconds. Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 10/222 v St Kilda 2nd XI 10/126

■ Thirds. Melbourne 3rd XI 9/326 v Geelong 3rd XI 10/285

■ Fourths. Melbourne University 4th XI 10/312 v Richmond 4th XI 10/192.

Sub-District

■ East West 1st XI. Two Days. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 21-22. Werribee 1st XI 4/158 v Spotswood 1st XI 10/154. Balwyn 1st XI 9/305 v Altona 1st XI 10/179.

■ East West 2nd XI. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 6/ 272 v Balwyn 2nd XI 10/89. Melton 2nd XI 9/ 203 v Croydon 2nd XI 10/131

■ North South 1st XI. T South 2nd XI. Brighton 1st XI 10/137 & 2/85 v St Bernard's OC 1st XI 10/117 & 3-d/104. Malvern 1st XI 10/70 & 10/203 v Preston 1st XI 10/179 & 2/97.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 1. Preston 3rd XI 10/316 v Brunswick 3rd XI 10/212.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 2. Strathmore 3rd XI 10/97 v Ivanhoe 3rd XI 10/114.

■ North West 4th XI Division 1. Taylors Lakes 4th XI 8/312 v Preston 4th XI 10/174.

■ North West 4th XI Division 2. Strathmore 4th XI 10/142 v Altona 4th XI 10/131

■ South East 3rd XI Division 1. Elsternwick 3rd XI 10/183 v Mt Waverley 3rd XI 10/86

■ South East 3rd XI Division 2. Brighton 3rd XI 10/134 v Port Melbourne 3rd XI 10/75 & 8-d/75

■ South East 4th XI Division 1. Mt Waverley 4th XI 9/152 v Balwyn 4th XI 6/156

■ South East 4th XI Division 2. Brighton 4th XI 1/340 v Endeavour Hills 4th XI 10/192

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Two Days. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 14-15. Mont Albert 1st XI 10/86 v Old Carey 1st XI 10/183

■ Wright Shield. Heathmont 1st XI 7/210 v Mulgrave 1st XI 10/206

■ A Turf. Mazenod OC 1st XI 10/233 v Burwood 1st XI 10/119

■ B Turf. North Balwyn 2nd XI 10/199 v Bulleen 2nd XI 10/206

■ C Turf. Mulgrave 2nd XI 10/172 v Burwood 2nd XI 10/158

■ D Turf. Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 10/171 v Marcellin OC 2nd XI 9/243

■ E Turf. Edinburgh 3rd XI 10/156 v Heathmont 3rd XI 5/158

■ F Turf. Bulleen 3rd XI 10/74 v St. Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 1/76

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2222

■ MacGibbon Shield. Clifton Hill 1st XI 10/113 v Trinity Willison 1st XI 9/284

■ Burt Shield. St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 10/144 v Toorak Prahran 1st XI 10/123.

Mornington Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Two Days. Sat.-Sun., Mar. 21-22. Red Hill 1sts 10/181 v Mornington 1sts 5/ 182.

■ Peninsula Firsts. Somerville 1sts 10/90 v Old Peninsula 1sts 10/94 & 0/60

■ District Firsts. Carrum Downs 1sts 10/106 v Crib Point 1sts 10/202

■ Sub-District Firsts. Tyabb 1sts 8-d/266 v Baxter 1sts 10/74.

Ringwood District

■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two Days. Sat.Sun., Mar. 14-15. Montrose 1XI 4-d/117c v St Andrews 1XI 10/116

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Heatherdale 1XI 10/82 v Mooroolbark 1XI 10/168

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Templeton 1XI 10/111 v Warrandyte 1XI 6/113

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. East Ringwood 2XI 10/182 v Montrose 2XI 9/183.

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Bentleigh Uniting 1 10/ 169 v East Sandringham 1 9/249

■ Woolnough Shield. Elwood 1 9/257 v Omega 1 5/258

■ Quiney Shield. Omega 2 6/283 v Hampton United 1 10/125

■ Pullen Shield. Cluden 2 10/207 v Mackie 2 10/ 178

■ E-Grade. CUCC Kings 4 10/212 v Southside East Caulfield 1 8/213

Retail theft blitz

■ Prolific shoplifters are in the sights of Port Phillip police, as officers aim to disrupt a growing trend in retail theft.

Local police intelligence indicates a core group of 11 offenders is allegedly responsible for over 500 shop thefts across Port Phillip in the past year.

This equates to around 40 per cent of all retail theft across South Melbourne, St Kilda, Port Melbourne, and Balaclava In the past year, local police have processed 162 shoplifters a combined 788 times.

Overall, retailers have reported the theft of more than $680,000 of stock from predominantly supermarkets and liquor outlets.

Among the most prolific offenders are:

■ A 50-year-old woman who has allegedly shoplifted from supermarkets and liquor stores 115 times in the past year. These thefts have occurred mostly in Balaclava and almost always involving the theft of alcohol.

■ A 31-year-old man who has allegedly shoplifted from grocery and liquor stores a total of 50 times in the past four months.

■ A 30-year-old man who has allegedly stolen predominantly liquor on 44 separate occasions across Port Phillip in the past year.

Police are conducting regular operations targeting shoplifters, as well as engaging with local retailers to reduce their chances of falling victim.

Simple tips for retailers include acknowledging customers as they enter the store and letting them know you are aware they are there; being alert for suspicious behaviour; not leaving cash in unattended registers; and checking bags when people leave the store. CCTV and alarms are also good deterrents.

Port Phillip Local Area Commander Inspector Brett Coloe said: “We know a lot of people are struggling to make ends meet with a combination of interest rates, rising fuel prices, inflation and general cost-ofliving pressures piling up.

“However, stealing is never justifiable, and not only hurts the business but other shoppers as well, often resulting in higher prices at the checkout.

“Repeat thieves are really hurting retailers, with just a handful of prolific shop thieves committing significant financial harm to hardworking businesses.

“These people are in the sights of police, who are working alongside loss prevention officers in ongoing operations in local supermarkets, liquor outlets and clothing stores.

“We know that reported retail theft is only the tip of the iceberg, with police not being made aware of all thefts by retailers.

“We implore businesses to report all incidents of theft to police so we can investigate and hold offenders to account – put simply, we can’t investigate what we don’t know.

“Notifying police may prevent the same offenders from targeting your store again, or someone else’s.”

3 arrested

■ Police have arrested three teens following an aggravated burglary in Ashwood Officers were called to reports three people had broken into a residence on Ashwood Drive about 1.55am Monday (Mar. 23).

The trio allegedly stole an Audi A1 from the property which was spotted by police shortly after.

The Air Wing followed the vehicle as it was driven along the Monash Freeway, allegedly reaching up to 190-kmh, before taking the Heatherton Rd exit where stop sticks were successfully deployed.

The vehicle continued along the Princes Hwy before it was dumped and the occupants fled on foot.

A 16-year-old boy and two 17-year-old boys, all from the Cardinia area, were arrested on Strawbent Rise.

The 16-year-old was transported to hospital after being bitten by a police dog.

All three were expected to be interviewed by detectives.