The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Aug. 26, 2026

REGIONAL EDITION MANSFIELD • MURRINDINDI • NILLUMBIK • WHITTLESEA • YARRA RANGES

56 PAGES

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2026

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● Yea Women’s Football Team won the Outer East Division 2 flag against Officer, 4.5 (29) to 2.4 (16), at Monbulk. Best players: Cassy Wilsmore, Madison Albers, Jordyn Beattie, Billie Ross, Abby Christie and Tayla Garratt.

EX-MAYOR DEMANDS $3M FROM MINISTER STAIKOS

■ Former Whittlesea Mayor Cr Aidan McLindon is demanding Victoria’s former local government minister Nick Staikos pay $3.5million over an “unlawful” suspension. A letter was presented by Cr McLindon’s lawyer, to Mr Staikos at the Ministers’ private residence on Friday (Aug. 21) Cr McLindon was suspended as Mayor and Councillor by Mr Staikos, but the Supreme Court ruled that the suspension was invalid. Council Monitors had alleged that Cr McLindon had engaged in conduct creating “a serious risk to the health and safety of councillors or members of council staff”, including by making comments on social media that were “widely viewed as racist, homophobic and transphobic”. A Commission was critical of the role [played by former City of Whittlesea CEO Craig Lloyd, who resigned to puruse a career in Western Australia. The letter says Mr Staikos “purported to exercise a power in public office, unlawfully”. It alleges Mr Staikos had “committed the tort of misfeasance in public office” which had caused Cr McLindon to suffer “irreversible lifelong damage” including “irreparable damage to his earning capacity”. It claims that the matter will attract the highest recorded award of exemplary and/or punitive damages in Australian legal history. “In total, we estimate our client’s entitlements to be in the vicinity of $3,060,000. With the legal costs of the Supreme Court action, we estimate that a trial in this matter your liability to our client will certainly exceed $3,500,000.00, excluding your own legal costs. “Despite … advice, the action proceeded and my client was removed from the Mayoral office to which he had been democratically elected,” the lawyer wrote in his letter. “I have been instructed to pursue a claim for damages arising from the consequences of the unlawful suspension, including the substantial personal, professional and financial

● Cr Aidan McLindon

consequences my client has, and continues to suffer. “The important and obvious question is whether a person against whom serious legal proceedings arising from the exercise of ministerial power are commenced, continue to operate in public office pending the assessment of the Court of the claim. Clearly the answer is no.” Mr Karamouzis emphasised that the legal proceedings were directed “personally” against Mr Staikos, vowing that the public would not pick up the tab for the former minister’s actions.

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56 PAGES: LARGEST READERSHIP OF ANY LOCAL NEWSPAPER IN MURRINDINDI SHIRE

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2026

Local Sport Bendigo ■ Seniors. Eaglehawk 55.29 (359) d Broadford 0.0 (0). Sandhurst 24.14 (158) d Castlemaine 4.5 (29). Gisborne 13.l8 (86) d Golden Square 9.11 (65). Strathfieldsaye 15.0 (110) d Kangaroo Flat 3.6 (24). Bye: South Bendigo. ■ Reserves. Eaglehawk 24.16 (160) d Broadford 1.1 (7). Sandhurst 16.14 (110) d Castlemaine 3.5 (23). Gisborne 8.11 (59) d Golden Square 6.8 (44). Strathfieldsaye 8.13 (61) d Kangaroo Flat 5.3 (33). Bye: South Bendigo. ■ Under 18. Eaglehawk 11.13 (79) d Broadford 6.3 (39). Sandhurst 14.7 (91) d Castlemaine 7.6 (48). Gisborne 14.8 (92) d Golden Square 7.5 (47). Strathfieldsaye 23.20 (158) d Kangaroo Flat 0.1 (1). Bye: South Bendigo.

SEXUAL ASSAULT AT A LILYDALE MEDICAL CLINIC

Goulburn Valley ■ Seniors. Echuca 12.12 (84) d Mooroopna 6.12 (48). Shepparton United 19.5 (119) d Mansfield 14.15 (99). Seymour 15.16 (106) d Tatura 6.6 (42). Shepparton Swans 18.20 (128) d Benalla 7.6 (48). Shepparton 13.15 (93) d Rochester 10.12 (72). Kyabram 14.15 (99) d Euroa 10.11 (71). ■ Reserves. Exchuca 32.15 (207) d Mooroopna 0.0 (0). Mansfield 11.6 (72) d Shepparton United 8.11 (59). Seymour 6.11 (47) d Tatura 3.1 (19). Shepparton Swans 19.9 (123) d Benalla 1.2 (8). Rochester 8.10 (58) d Shepparton 8.8 (56). Kyabram 20.19 (139) d Euroa 2.0 (12). ■ Under 18. Echuca 15.12 (102) d Mooroopna 4.6 (30). Mansfield 11.16 (82) d Shepparton United 5.7 (37). Seymour 9.7 (61) d Tatura 4.4 (28). Benalla 22.17 (149) d Shepparton Swans 1.2 (8). Shepparton 9.18 (132) d Rochester 3.1 (19). Kyabram 22.11 (143) d Euroa 2.5 (17).

Kyabram District ■ Seniors. Murchison Toolamba 14.6 (90) d Stanhope 11.8 (74). Shepparton East v Avenel. ■ Reserves. Avenel 6.3 (39) d Girgarre 2.6 (18). Lancaster v Tallygaroopna. ■ Under 18. Tallygaroopna 9.11 (65) d Violet Town 2.4 (16). Shepparton East v Undera.

Outer East ■ Premier Division Seniors. Wandin 31.21 (207) d Upwey Tecoma 5.8 (38). Warburton Millgrove 11.14 (80) d Mt Evelyn 11.11 (77). Monbulk 14.13 (97) d Healesville 7.10 (52). Officer 13.13 (91) d Woori Yallock 7.13 (55). Olinda Ferny Creek 22.19 (151) d Gembrook Cockatoo 6.3 (39). ■ Premier Division Reserves. Mt Evelyn 20.10 (130) d Warburton Millgrove 2.1 (13). Healesville 9.6 (60) d Monbulk 4.10 (34). Officer 16.14 (110) d Woori Yallock 1.3 (9). Olinda Ferny Creek 13.13 (91) d Gembrook Cockatoo 4.12 (36). Wandin 8.8 (56) d Upwey Tecoma 4.12 (36). ■ Division 1 Seniors. Seville 13.13 (91) d Alexandra 9.8 (62). Emerald 14.11 (95) d Yarra Glen 11.12 (78). ■ Division 1 Reserves. Belgrave 14.13 (97) d Alexandra 7.2 (44). Seville 9.15 (69) d Emerald 5.9 (39). ■ Under 18 Boys. Officer 9.15 (69) d Woori Yallock 1.4 (10). Healesville 20.8 (128) d Monbulk 2.2 (14). Mt Evelyn 16.14 (110) d Warburton Millgrove 1.3 (9). Olinda Ferny Creek 7.9 (51) d Gembrook Cockatoo 7.8 (50). Wandin 10.8 (68) d Upwey Tecoma 5.3 (33). Bye: Alexandra, Pakenham, Seville, Yarra Glen.

Ovens & King ■ Seniors. Bright 7.14 (56) d Moyhu 4.8 (32). North Wangaratta v Greta. ■ Reserves. North Wangaratta 9.8 (62) d Bright 6.5 (41). Bonnie Doon v Tarrawingee

● Continued on Page 7

● Detectives are investigating.

■ Detectives are appealing for information regarding a historical sexual assault in Lilydale. Investigators have received a complaint from a female victim who attended a Lilydale doctor’s office in the late 1970s or early 1980s. The woman was a teenager at the time of the incident. Investigators received the complaint on June 26 this year and commenced an investigation. “The Lilydale medical clinic where the incident occurred is no longer in operation,” a police representative said. “While we have only had one victim come forward at this time, we suspect there may be other victims out there who have not come forward. It’s never too late for people to come forward with allegations of this kind.” Detectives urge any victims, witnesses or anyone with information relating to this matter to contact Crime Stoppers on phone number 1800 333 000.

CUTLER IS KINGLAKE’S 2027 SENIOR COACH

■ Gary Cutler has signed as Coach of the Kinglake Football Club for 2027. He has been the Lakers Reserves coiach throughout 2026. Gary Cutler’s coaching journey spans more than 30 years. His coaching history includes: ■ 1992–1999 — Senior Playing Coach, Thornbury FC ■ 2003–2004 — Reserves Coach, North Brunswick FC. Premiers 2003 ■ 2005–2006 — Reserves Coach, Coburg Districts FC ■ 2007–2008 — Senior Coach, Coburg Districts ■ 2010–2011 — Reserves Coach, Northcote Park FC ■ 2012–2013 — Senior Coach, Yea FNC ■ 2014–2015 — Reserves Coach, North Heidelberg FC. Premiers 2014 ■ 2017–2018 — Senior Coach, Heidelberg West FC ■ 2019–2021 — Senior Coach, Lalor FC ■ 2021–2023 — Reserves Coach, Kilmore FNC ■ 2024–2025 — Reserves Coach, Watsonia FC “His passion for developing players, makes him a fantastic addition to our club.”

● Gary Cutler and Cameron Caine.

Local Politics $600,000 coffee cup

● Cindy McLeish, Eildon MLA

■ The Labor Government can find $1.6 million for pot plants and $600,000 for coffee machines, says Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish. But apparently they cannot spare bushfire victims thousands of dollars in planning fees to rebuild their homes, repair fences or just accelerate the cleanup. Ms McLeish said revelations in Parliament about extraordinary government spending were a slap in the face to families struggling to rebuild after the devastating summer fires. More than 200 homes were lost in Murrindindi Shire in the Longwood fires, along with hundreds of sheds and other buildings. Ms McLeish asked the Planning Minister [Sonya Kilkenny] in June to waive planning application fees after residents reported being charged around $1500 to rebuild a home and $600 for a shed. Ms Kilkenny’s response passed the buck to already financially strapped councils. “We discovered Labor can blow $1.6 million on pot plants and another $600,000 on coffee machines, yet when a family who has lost their home asks for help with a planning fee, suddenly there’s no money,” Ms McLeish said. “These people didn't choose to rebuild – their homes, sheds and livelihoods were destroyed by fire. They have already been through enough without government bureaucracy adding another bill. “I asked the Planning Minister in June to waive these fees. But she just passed the buck. Millions can disappear on bureaucratic extravagances in Melbourne, while bushfire survivors in regional Victoria are told to pay up,” Ms McLeish said.

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Vote on Murrindindi grants

Rod Basto, Horse Racing

■ Murrindindi Council is due tonight (Wed., Aug. 26) to consider a number of grants to local organisations. Quick Response grants have been awarded under delegation: ■ Flowerdale Men's Shed – Stay Safe, Stay Connected Shed WiFi Upgrade Initiative - $646 ■ Eildon Golf Club – Replacement of Furniture, Chairs in the Club House - $1800 ■ Rotary Club of Yea – Garden Expo 2026 $1500 ■ Thornton Eildon District Football & Netball Club – End of Season Day Sponsors Function - $650 ■ Rotary Club of Kinglake Ranges – Youth Showcase Night - $500 ■ Alexandra Primary School – Boite Chorus Performance Opportunity at the Melbourne Town Hall for Young Singers from Murrindindi Shire - $2500 ■ Alexandra and District Dog Obedience Club Inc – Shipping Container Storage - $2000 ■ Yea Arts Inc – Sarah Belkner Concert and Artist in Residence Weekend $2,000 ■ Alexandra Secondary College – Production I'm Big, You’re Little - $1000 ■ Buxton Progress Association Inc. Buxton Hall Disabled Parking Space - $1000 ■ Marysville Information and Regional Artspace – Marysville Art Show 2026 - $2,500 ■ Flowerdale Community House – 2026 Flowerdale Quilt Show - $500 Councillors will be asked to endorse the allocation of funding for Project grants, as recommended by the Grants and Sponsorship Assessment

● Council meeting at Yea

Panel: ■ Mange Management Inc – Protecting Murrindindi’s Wombats from the Suffering and Fatal Impact of Sarcoptic Mange - $5000 ■ Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House – Food Share $4000. The meeting is expected to be asked to endorse the allocation of funding for a ponsorship grant, as recommended by the Grants and Sponsorship Assessment Panel: ■ Triangle Arts Group Inc – Music in The Park 2027 - $3500 A Local (Multi) Events grant as recommended by the Grants and Sponsorship Assessment Panel is for the Rotary Club of Alexandra – Rotary Community Events Program for Alexandra and Murrindindi - $10,000

22 lots at Yea

Celebrating 57 years in local media

■ A development plan for up to 22 lots on a property accessed by Smith St and Meadow Rd will be presented to Murrindindi Shire Councillors tonight (Wed.). The property is known as 6489 Melba Hwy, Yea. The land is approximately 1.2km from the town centre using the existing road network. The land was zoned Low Density Residential Zone under Amendment C14 in July 2006 and has a Development Plan Overlay applying to it. Minimum lot sizes of 0.4 hectares applied to the land when it was first rezoned. Electricity, water and sewer are available to the land.

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

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● Near Kanumbra Railway Station. Source: exploroz.com

● This is the August 26 issue of The Local Paper (including the Melbourne Observer) for 2026. Digital issues are produced weekly, and print issues are published fortnightly.

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026 - Page 5

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Local Sport ● From Page 3

Riddell District ■ Seniors. Diggers Rest 19.17 (125) d Wallan 11.10 (76). Macedon v kyneton. Melton South v Riddell. ■ Reserves. Wallan 4.3 (27) d Macedon 3.7 (25). Diggers Rest v Riddell. Melton Centrals v Kyneton. ■ Under 19.5. Gisborne Giants 12.10 (82) d Kyneton 4.11 (35). Macedon v Melton Centrals. Woodend-Hesket v Wallan.

TH

70 ANNIVERSARY OF EILDON BIG WALL

Northern ■ Division 1 Seniors. Montmorency 33.17 (215) d North Heidelberg 6.6 (42). Banyule 26.13 (169) d West Preston Lakeside 3.9 (27). Hurstbridge 18.10 (118) d Eltham 17.11 (113). Bundoora 15.7 (97) d Greensborough 9.10 (64). Heidelberg 21.16 (142) d Diamond Creek 4.2 (26). ■ Division 1 Reserves. North Heidelberg 13.8 (86) d Montmorency 12.13 (85). Banyule 22.16 (148) d West Preston Lakeside 1.3 (9). Eltham 19.19 (133)d Hurstbridge 6.8 (44). Greensborough 24.16 (160) d Bundoora 2.2 (14). Heidelberg 16.7 (103) d Diamond Creek 4.7 (31). ■ Division 2 Seniors. St Mary’s 9.14 (68) d Northcote Park 6.6 (42). Old Paradians v Whittlesea. ■ Division 2 Reserves. South Morang 4.6 (30) d Macleod 3.10 (28). Thomastown v Old Paradians. ■ Under 19.5. South Morang 12.15 (87) d Panton Hill 4.9 (33). Bundoora 23.14 (152) d Epping 3.4 (22). Lauirmar v Heidelberg. Old Paradians v Lower Plenty. ■ Division 3 Seniors. Ivanhoe 19.4 (118) d Laurimar 12.12 (84). Mernda v Watsonia. ■ Division 3 Reserves. Ivanhoe 10.10 (70) d Laurimar 5.7 937). Mernda v Watsonia.

Rebels disappointed ■ It was a disappointing weekend for the Rebels in their endeavours in the first week of finals. RESERVES The Reserves took to the field with a common theme throughout the second half of the season constantly missing a number of key players through either injury or unavailability and were disappointing against a bigger more disciplined Belgrave. Harry Correa was a clear winner voted the Rebels best and was well supported by key experienced midfielders Tom Halligan, Connor Heaslip, Brent McDonald as well as defenders Brendan Musgrove and Nate Kerle. The boys now hand over the premier’s title and must now plan and regroup for season 2027. Goalkickers: Galloway, Correa, D Jack, Hill, McDonald, Phillips, Eastwood all with one each. Belgrave 14.13 97 defeated Alexandra 7.2 44 ★ SENIORS The Rebels all season against the two top sides have been in every game but have failed to secure a win and this was the same result in the qualifying final against Seville played at Woori Yallock. Lachlan Nankervis continued his outstanding performance with another lionhearted performance in the ruck. Mitch Parker generated great drive out of the centre putting his body on the line time and time again. Bart Wallace and Peter Cairns in defence made like difficult for the Seville forwards. Ben Cooper and Johnathon Grimwade were other solid contributors in an even team the Rebels now have one week to regroup regain some key personnel and play Emerald at Healesville next Sunday for the right to proceed to the Preliminary final. Goalkickers: Edwards, Critchley 2 each. Nankervis, Aikman, Stewart, Bishop, Coventry 1 each Seville 13.13 91 defeated Alexandra 9.8 62 ★ Under 17 Netball Alexandra’s Under 17 netballers have kept their finals campaign alive after a great win over Seville White in last Saturday’s Elimination Final. It was a close contest early, with the Rebels holding just a two-goal lead at halftime. The girls finished strongly, pulling away in the final quarter with nine goals to Seville’s five to secure the win. Zoe Mullins was outstanding in goals with 27 goals, while Marli and Asher worked hard in defence and Phoebe was strong through the centre. The Rebels now take on Emerald this Sunday (Aug. 30) at 9.50am at Healesville.

Michelle Jack

● A celebration of the Big Wall opening will be held at Eildon on October 25.

■ A celebration of the 70th anniversary of the opening of the big Eildon Wall will be held on Sunday, October 25, at Pixies at the Billabong venue. Stephen Wallace has written After 70 Years ... Back To The Wall, a performance which will include as many local people as possible. Rehearsals of the ‘popopera’ will be held on Sundays, with a last-minute rehearsal scheduled for Saturday, October 24. Details are available from Stephen Wallace on 0458 152 364. Former workers on the Big Eildon Wall, and their descendants, are being invited to share in the celebration. The current wall was officially opened by Victorian Premier, Sir Henry Bolte, on October 19, 1956.

£20 mil. project

The Big Eildon project to enlarge Victoria's original Sugarloaf Dam began with construction in June 1951 and was completed in 1955, creating the massive Eildon Dam. The colossal wall enlargement cost roughly £20 million and increased the reservoir's capacity nearly ninefold. The area began back in the 1860s after gold was discovered and the small town of Darlingford (named after Sir Charles Darling, Governor of Victoria), near the junction of the Big and Goulburn Rivers came into being. Darlingford was later submerged in the 1920s, when Sugarloaf Dam was built on the Goulburn River between Mounts Sugarloaf and Pinniger. Remains of the town still exist under the waters of Lake Eildon today and during the early 2000s it was reported that a drought resulted in the tops of some of the town’s buildings protruding from their watery grave.

Shanty town

Sugarloaf Reservoir construction commenced in 1915 and was finally completed in 1929. It was in commission for less than a year when it was deemed too small and it was modified in 1929, and again in 1935 to increase the storage capacity. It was still limited in its capacity to meet the growing demand for water in the Goulburn Valley and to protect farmers during drought years. In 1951, the ‘Big Eildon Project’ began to enlarge the storage to its present capacity (3,334,158 ML) which is six times the size of Sydney Harbour. During the construction nearly 4000 workers and their families were housed in the shanty township of Eildon which was constructed between 1950-1952.

Don’t Buy A Regret ■ The State Government has launched a new campaign to protect Victorians buying used cars. More than two thirds of young Victorians have bought a used car, and many are unaware of what to check before they buy, or what to do if something goes wrong after the sale. The new ‘Don’t Buy a Regret’ campaign launched this week to raise awareness of motorists’ rights when buying a used car.

National Tree Day ■ Murrindindi Council, together with hundreds of students and volunteers, planted more than 2350 native plants throughout the Shire as part of this year's National Tree Day program. Schools, Landcare groups, volunteers and community organisations held planting activities at 17 sites across and surrounding communities, including waterways, reserves, school grounds and public open spaces. A highlight of this year's program was the strong involvement of young people, with 13 schools participating across Murrindindi with 222 students contributing.

Local Briefs Alex. junior sport ■ Alexandra’s Under 10 footballers capped off a fantastic season with a brilliant win over the Nagambie Lakers in the Lightning Premiership Grand Final. The young Rebels were pumped and ready to play, but at half-time found themselves trailing by just two points. After a quick half-time pep talk from coach Aaron, the boys came out firing, dominating the second half and running away with an impressive 70–41 victory. A fantastic effort by all the kids and a great reward for their hard work throughout the season. Congratulations to coach Aaron, along with all the volunteers, parents and supporters who have helped the team along the way. ★ Alexandra’s 15 & Under Black netballers took on St Mary’s in their Grand Final on Sunday (Aug. 23). The Rebels played some fantastic netball and fought hard throughout the game, but St Mary’s gained momentum in the third quarter and went on to defeat Alexandra 44–34 to claim the premiership. Although it wasn’t the result the girls were hoping for, making it through to the Grand Final was a fantastic achievement and a great way to cap off a strong season. Congratulations to all the players on a great year, and a special well done to Coach Pep on guiding the girls all the way to the Grand Final. A fantastic effort by the 15 & Under Black team — hold your heads high, Rebels.

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026 - Page 9

Local Briefs Kebab shop destroyed

Death at FT Gully ■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man with murder after a woman was located deceased inside a residential property in Ferntree Gully on Friday morning (Aug. 21). Emergency services were called to the residence on Ferntree Gully Rd just before 10am and located an injured woman. Despite efforts to revive the 30-year-old Ferntree Gully woman, she was declared deceased at the scene. A 45-year-old Ferntree Gully man was arrested nearby and taken into custody. The man has since been charged with one count of murder. He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Saturday evening (Aug. 22) via audio visual link where he was remanded in custody to appear on February 23. It is alleged the parties were known to each other.

Fire at Campbellfield ■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal fire at a caravan park in Campbellfield on Friday morning (Aug. 21). Emergency services were called to reports of the blaze inside a cabin on Sydney Rd just after 4.30am. A man was located deceased inside the premises. No one else was inside the property at the time. The circumstances of the fire had yet to be determined and detectives from the Arson and Explosive Squad were attending. The investigation remains ongoing.

Wildwood shooting ■ Police have charged a man following a shooting in Wildwood on Wednesday night (Aug. 19). A 37-year-old Meadow Heights man was allegedly shot in the torso following a dispute with the occupants at a property on Wildwood Rd about 7.20pm. A 56-year-old Wildwood man was arrested on Thursday (Aug. 20) and has since been charged with one count of intentionally cause serious injury. The man was to appear before court. The 37-year-old remains unaccounted for, and police have significant concerns for his welfare and believe it is likely he has succumbed to his injuries. Detectives are continuing to appeal for anyone who has information about the whereabouts of the man, or who saw a black Mitsubishi Triton ute travelling through the Greenvale, Sunbury, Bulla, Oaklands Junction and Wildwood areas on Wednesday night and early Thursday morning to contact police.

Targeted twice ■ A tobacco store in Northcote was extensively damaged after a vehicle was rammed into the shop front for a second time in two days. Police were called to the High St scene following reports of the damage late Tuesday night (Aug. 18) about 11.45pm. The vehicle involved, a red Toyota Corolla which has been confirmed stolen, appears to have been reversed at speed into the shop, coming to rest inside the store. Two offenders wearing dark clothing were captured on CCTV leaving the scene on foot, north on High St. Tuesday night’s incident was the second time the store has been targeted after another vehicle was rammed into the shopfront in the early hours of Monday morning (Aug. 17) about 2am. Nothing was stolen on Monday and the offenders fled before police arrived. Darebin Crime Investigation Unit are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

193-kmh in 60 zone ■ A man has been charged after he was arrested following a pursuit in Fraser Rise on Saturday morning (Aug. 22). Melton Highway Patrol initially detected a Volkswagen Golf allegedly driving at 193-kmh in a 60-kmh zone in Caroline Springs about 12.20am.

Victoria Police

■ A chicken kebab store in Lalor was destroyed following a suspicious fire. Emergency services were called to the Station St scene about 1.15am on Friday (Aug. 21). It is believed the offenders entered the store from the rear before they set the shop alight, leaving a burnt-out jerry can behind. Police are investigating the possibility the offenders may have been injured during the incident as the fire appears to have followed them out to the rear of the store. Whittlesea Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire and whether it is linked to any other recent fires.

Mernda advocacy ■ The City of Whittlesea is calling on the State and Federal Governments to provide their share of the funding needed to build an aquatic and leisure facility in Mernda. Councillors endorsed a plan for the delivery of an estimated $85 million aquatic and leisure facility to meet the health and recreation needs of a growing community. The plan is conditional on the Council securing external funding for 50 per cent of the total project cost. “Despite Council’s advocacy efforts, the only external funding committed to the project since the facility’s original business case was endorsed in 2022 is $10 million from the Victorian Government,” a Council representative said. “The significant funding shortfall and rising construction costs led Council to review the scope and delivery of the project. “The review found the cost of building the facility had increased by 53.9 per cent from $79.28 million to about $122 million. Council’s entire capital works budget for the 2026-27 financial year is $116 million.’ At the August 18 Whittlesea Council meeting, Councillors endorsed a revised project scope to ensure the facility delivers important community benefits while remaining financially sustainable. The proposed facility includes a multipurpose 25-metre pool, warm-water pool, learn-to-swim pool, spa, sauna, steam room, gymnasium, fitness and wellbeing spaces, cafe and supporting amenities. “The project will benefit people of all ages and abilities. These include increased participation in a range of physical activities, greater opportunities for residents, especially children, to develop swimming skills, and rehabilitation and low-impact recreation activities for older residents,” the Council representative said. “The changes from the original business case, which include reducing the size of the multipurpose pool from 50 metres to 25 metres, as well as other design and scope efficiencies, are estimated to cut the project cost by about $37 million. “Council will continue to strongly advocate to the Victorian and Australian governments to secure funding towards the project’s delivery.” City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lawrie Cox, said: “Council understands the importance of delivering the sporting and recreational infrastructure our growing communities need to live physically active and healthy lives. “However, Council cannot fund a project of this magnitude on our own. We need the support of the State and Federal governments. “The revised plan responds to the reality of a shortfall in funding and rising construction costs and ensuring Council can still deliver the services important to our community. “Despite our advocacy efforts, since the original business case was endorsed in 2022, we have only had a commitment of $10 million from the Victorian Government. “That is not nearly enough money to make this project a reality. We need the State and Federal Governments to listen to the community and provide their fair share. “We are urging the Victorian and Australian Governments to provide funding support for this important community facility,” Cr Cox said.

Wide readership

● This edition covers the municipalities of Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), Strathbogie (part), Whittlesea (rural) and Yarra Ranges. www.FreePaper.com.au

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026 - Page 11

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Local Briefs More road offences ■ Police issued a further 120 offences to motorists travelling to and from Victorian snowfields, with over 500 offences now detected in total during the major road policing operation. Operation Eastern Snow has seen police highly visible and enforcing on roads heading to and from Victoria’s alpine areas, including Mount Buller, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. Police detected 120 offences over a threeday period (August 14-16), including: ■ 89 speeding offences ■ 12 unregistered vehicles ■ Six vehicle defects ■ Five heavy vehicle offences ■ Two seat belt offences ■ Two drug drivers from 77 roadside drug tests ■ One drink driver from 898 preliminary breath tests A total 41 motorists were intercepted

140-kmh alleged

Highway Patrol intercepted two vehicles travelling together at a fast rate of speed along Maroondah Hwy at Mansfield on Friday, August 14. The first vehicle was detected travelling at an alleged speed of 140-kmh, while the second following vehicle was observed crossing over the double white lines into the oncoming lane. The driver of the first vehicle, a 22-yearold West Australian male received a $784 penalty for speeding and six-month licence suspension. The driver of the second vehicle, a 24year-old West Australian male, received an infringement for crossing over double lines ($418 and two demerit points), and subsequently returned an alleged blood alcohol reading of 0.107 and was issued a further infringement notice for drink driving and 10-month licence cancellation. The latest detections for Operation Eastern Snow follow a further 414 offences detected by police between July 24-26, and August 7-9. While police are pleased to have issued less infringements over the recent weekend than the ones prior, there are still concerns the message is not getting through to some motorists who are taking dangerous risks on roads to and from the snowfields. Motorists are being urged to drive to the conditions, particularly during periods of poor weather and are being reminded to slow down, remain alert on unfamiliar roads and allow plenty of travel time, especially during busy periods.

Dangerous risks

All vehicles entering alpine areas during the declared snow season are required by law to carry wheel chains and fit them when instructed. Failure to carry chains may result in a $418 fine, while failing to fit them when required may attract a $1046 penalty. Car snow chains are essential for navigating steep, icy roads and can be the difference between staying on the road or sliding off it. Operation Eastern Snow will continue throughout the Mount Buller, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham areas for the remainder of the month. Eastern Region Road Policing Acting Inspector, Jill McBain said: “While it was pleasing to see less detections over the recent weekend, there are still some drivers who are opting to take dangerous risks, like speeding on roads and overtaking where it’s not permitted. “Motorists heading to these regions are urged to slow down, avoid distractions and dangerous overtaking, and be mindful of driving to the conditions – remember to carry snow chains. “Operation Eastern Snow will continue for the rest of this month and motorists heading to these areas should expect to see police highly visible and enforcing”.

84% works done ■ Cr Paul Hildebrand will report to Murrindindi Council this week that it had a a capital works budget of $17.21 million for 2025-26 and delivered $14.43 million in capital works during 2025-26 despite the significant disruption caused by the January 2026 bushfires. This equates to 84 per cent of the budget adopted. The January 2026 bushfires had a major impact on the availability of contract resources and ability to deliver projects.

Local News

By-election for Kinglake Ward ■ Kinglake Ward residents will have a by-election in December, following the resignation of Cr Jodi Adams. The by-election will be held by post. “You must be correctly enrolled by the close of roll, which is 4 pm on Wednesday, September 23,” said Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel. “As this is a postal election, it’s important to check your address details are correct – this includes any alternative postal address. “If you’re an Australian citizen living in Kinglake Ward and you’ve recently turned 18 or moved, you can enrol or update your details online at vec.vic.gov.au/enrolment Ratepayers in Kinglake Ward can apply to Murrindindi Council to enrol by calling 5772 0333. As long as they don’t have another voting entitlement in Murrindindi Shire Council and pay rates, property owners or occupiers and corporations can apply to be enrolled, even if they are not a citizen Owner-ratepayers occupier-ratepayers, or a director or company secretary of a corporation of a property who were automatically enrolled in Kinglake Ward for the 2024 general election for Murrindindi Shire Council will continue to be enrolled for the by-election, unless their circumstances have changed. Council-en-

● Jodi Adams

rolled voters can check their enrolment by calling 5772 0333. “Voting in local council elections is compulsory if you are enrolled. We encourage ratepayers who are eligible to apply to vote to participate in their democracy,” Mr Bluemmel said. “Your local council makes important decisions about your community services and businesses, so it’s important to have your say by voting in this by-election.” Around 1804 people are enrolled in Kinglake Ward, which includes Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Castella and Toolangi and surrounds.

Extra $1.15m for recovery ■ The Federal and State Governments sayc they are continuing to support communities recovering from the January 2026 bushfires. A total of $1.15 million will be shared between the Murrindindi and Strathbogie Shire Councils to boost their Community Recovery Officer and Recovery Hub programs until June 2028. This is part of the $15 million joint investment through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, supporting CROs and Recovery Hubs across 15 councils. Community Recovery Officers work directly with councils to identify local needs, deliver tailored recovery programs and connect residents with the support they need. Recovery Hubs provide a local one-stop shop for information, advice, trauma-informed support and recovery programs. A Government representative said: “It is based on a simple principle: local communities know their recovery needs best. “That’s why we are empowering councils to design and deliver the support that matters

Removal of trees

■ Murrindindi Shire Council was due to undertake tree removal works near 37 Melbourne Road, Yea, on Monday, August 24, as The Local Paper went to press. An assessment identified that the tree's root system has lifted the adjacent kerb and road surface. The tree is bheing removed to enable repairs and address safety concerns for road users. “Appropriate wildlife management measures will be undertaken before works commence to ensure any fauna that may be present is managed in accordance with relevant requirements,” said a Council representative. “Residents may notice contractors, machinery and temporary traffic management in the area while works are underway. “Council appreciates the community's patience and understanding as these important maintenance works are completed,” the representative said.

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has welcomed additional Australian and Victorian Government funding to support bushfire recovery (see report below, at left). The Council warns that significant recovery needs remain across the Shire seven months after the January fires. Murrindindi Shire Council will receive an additional $920,000. Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the funding was important recognition that recovery remains an ongoing challenge for many communities. "This funding is welcome and will help ensure recovery support continues in our communities for longer," Cr Gallagher said. "Many residents, farmers, businesses and community groups are still dealing with the consequences of the January fires, and recovery will continue for years, not months." The additional funding will support Council's Community Recovery Officer and Recovery Hub programs, helping maintain local recovery services and coordination for impacted communities. Cr Gallagher said the announcement was a positive step, but it did not change the scale of the recovery task facing Murrindindi. "We appreciate this additional investment, but it does not close the gap between the scale of the disaster and the recovery funding received. “Murrindindi experienced around 48 per cent of Victoria's structural losses from the January bushfires. Even with this latest grant, our share of recovery funding allocated to Councils for the January fires increases from around 8.3 per cent to 10.6 per cent. “This is progress, but it highlights that there is still a long way to go before our recovery funding more closely reflects the impact experienced by our community."

Long-term

● Jaclyn Symes MLC

most to them. “More than $420 million in bushfire recovery support has been jointly funded through the DRFA to support bushfire-affected Victorians. “Anyone needing assistance is encouraged to contact the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 to be connected with the support they need.

Difficult

● Melbourne Rd, Yea Photo: Murrindindi Council

Council Rounds Challenge remains

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said: “We know recovery can be a long and difficult journey, and this funding is about making it easier for people to get the help they need, when and where they need it. “The Australian Government will continue to stand with communities in Murrindindi, Strathbogie and across Victoria as they rebuild, recover and prepare for the future.” Paul Edbrooke, State Minister for Emergency Services, said: “Recovery works best when led by locals and informed by community. That’s why we’re uplifting local councils to best support recovery in their own communities. "We'll continue standing alongside bushfireaffected Victorians, backing them with the support they need every step of the way.” Senator Michelle Ananda-Rajah said: "This community has experienced the compounding effects of natural disasters, from fire and floods to the economic pressures of fuel and fertiliser access. “This funding will help the Murrindindi and Strathbogie Shire Councils with their recovery efforts and enable them to rebuild their communities." Northern Victoria MLC Jaclyn Symes said: “We’ll continue to back locals to lead the bushfire recovery response that works for community.” “That’s why it is so important this funding has been extended, so those affected can continue to receive support where it’s needed most.”

Cr Gallagher said that the Council would continue advocating for long-term recovery funding commensurate with the scale and complexity of the recovery effort in Murrindindi. “Council has previously advocated for $6 million to support the operation of recovery hubs and locally led recovery over the next couple of years. Even with this latest funding, more than $3 million is still required to meet that identified need. “Our recovery hubs and officers working directly with affected communities are not a short-term response. “They need to be there as people rebuild their homes and businesses, restore their farms and work through the social and economic impacts of this disaster,” Cr Gallagher said. "We are grateful for this funding and for the support provided by both levels of government. “However, the reality is that hundreds of residents are still rebuilding, businesses continue to face challenges, community recovery remains an active task, and Council is managing the long-term impacts of one of the most significant disasters in our Shire's history. “Recovery is far from over, and Council will continue to seek the government funding needed to help our communities rebuild and recover." “I have invited Premier Carroll to visit Murrindindi Shire to experience firsthand the impact of the Longwood fire, the stoicism and resolve of our community to rebuild and support one another, but also the scale of the challenge that remains. “Council will continue working with the Australian and Victorian Governments and recovery partners to support Murrindindi communities through the years ahead,” Cr Gallagher said.

Glenburn decision ■ It will be suggested to Murrindindi Shire Councillors tonight (Wed.) that they refuse to grant a permit for a two-lot subdivision (house lot excision), use and development of land for a dwelling and removal of native vegetation at 30 Malaraway Rd, Glenburn. The application proposes to subdivide the land into two lots by retaining the existing dwelling on Lot 1 (4.57 Hectares) and creating a balance lot (Lot 2) of 15.45 hectares. The application proposes the construction of a dwelling on Lot 2. The dwelling on Lot 2 is proposed to be constructed to support a future equine business to support up to 6 horses on the land.

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Council Rounds $61.8m capital works ■ Mitchell Shire’s $61.8 million capital works program is delivering the infrastructure needed to support a growing community, says a Council; representative. “Funded through rates alongside significant State and Federal Government funding, the 2026-27 capital works program will invest in roads, community facilities, recreation infrastructure, parks, footpaths and public spaces across the municipality.” Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said the program demonstrated how residents' rates were being reinvested into projects that benefit the whole community. "Every year, Council reinvests ratepayer funds into projects that make our communities better places to live, work and play," he said. "While roads remain one of our biggest investments, rates also help deliver libraries, family services, parks, sporting facilities, walking paths, traffic safety improvements and many of the places where our community comes together. "We also work hard to secure State and Federal Government funding so we can build on that investment. “By combining grant funding with Council's own investment, we're able to deliver larger projects and better outcomes for our growing community than would otherwise be possible. “This year's capital works program includes several major projects that will provide lasting benefits for current and future residents: Wallan East Integrated Family and Children's Centre Construction is continuing on the Wallan East Integrated Family and Children's Centre (interim name), which will become an important early years hub for the growing Wallan East community. Supported by more than $20 million in combined Victorian Government and Council funding, the centre will bring together kindergarten, Maternal and Child Health, allied health services and flexible community spaces in one location. Seymour Community Wellbeing Hub Planning is progressing for the Seymour Community Wellbeing Hub, a landmark development that will include a new library, learning spaces, community rooms, café and health hub. The $17 million project has been shaped by community feedback and will become a central place for learning, wellbeing and connection. Taylors Creek Reserve In Wallan, planning is continuing for the activation of Taylors Creek Reserve, with new shared user paths and pedestrian crossings improving walking and cycling connections through the area and encouraging more active transport. Chittick Park Dog-Friendly Space Construction is also underway on Seymour's first dedicated off-leash dog park at Chittick Park. The purpose-built facility will provide safe spaces for dogs of all sizes to exercise and socialise while creating another welcoming community destination for local families. Old Sydney Road Upgrade Planning and design are continuing for the upgrade of Old Sydney Rd in Beveridge following the Australian Government's $45 million funding commitment. The upgrade will upgrade a 5.57km stretch of Old Sydney Rd from the Mitchell/ Hume boundary to Camerons Lane in Beveridge. Windham St and Queen St Roundabout Road safety will also be improved through a new roundabout at the intersection of Windham St and Queen St in Wallan. Funded through the Australian Government's Black Spot Program, the project will improve traffic flow and reduce the likelihood and severity of crashes at the busy intersection. “While major projects often attract the most attention, Council's capital works program also includes smaller improvements that have a significant impact on everyday life. “Many of these projects were identified through community feedback during development of the 2026-27 budget, demonstrating that residents' suggestions directly influence Council's investment decisions. Projects suggested by the community that have been funded include: Amenities access upgrades at the Sue Marstaeller Pavilion at LB Davern Reserve, a missing footpath link connecting Hamilton St and Hawdon St in Broadford, new accessible parking in Murchison St, Broadford; improvements to the netball surface at the Kings Park Exhibition Building.

Local News

Delatite Valley plan adopted ■ The Delatite Valley Plan was officially adopted by Mansfield Shire Council at last week’s meeting, marking the end of a two-year planning process . Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie commended the collaborative effort between Council officers and the community. “This Council listens to our community and acts upon its behalf - this plan reflects that," he said. "I commend the residents of the Delatite Valley for stepping up and speaking out about what they want for their community. This is their plan. We're pleased it's in a spot that reflects their wishes. "We've seen a significant amount of community engagement over the Delatite Valley Plan over the past two years. I want to commend the efforts of our officers who have put in the effort to get the plan to where it is now. This collaboration has resulted in a plan we can all be happy with.” The Delatite Valley Plan will act as an overarching strategy to guide land use and development across the valley, providing direction on infrastructure and initiatives. The plan went through four drafts, with each version released for community engagement. Since July 2024, Council received 271 submissions from the community across 31 weeks.

● Cr Steve Rabie, Mayor A key outcome of the adopted plan is that there will be no proposed rezoning of the valley. “This reflects the community's wish to retain the valley's existing character, giving landowners certainty over their land use while still allowing them to undertake their own strategic reviews, should they wish,” a Council representative said.

Appeal over Coldstream permit

● Cr Richard Higgins, Yarra Ranges Mayor

■ Yarra ranges Council Council has appealed a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal decision to issue a retrospective permit for 400,000 cubic metres of fill on a Green Wedge property. VCAT overturned Council’s decision to refuse a retrospective permit for an applicant who had allowed the equivalent of 40,000 truckloads of fill to be used on their Coldstream property without prior approval. Having undertaken these significant earthworks without a permit, the applicant sought a retrospective permit from the Council. The Council refused this retrospective permit application in October 2024, and the applicant appealed the matter to VCAT. Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said Council was now appealing the VCAT decision to the Supreme Court: “Our position remains that the earthworks represent an inappropriate use of the land,” he said.

Row over Doreen battery ■ Nillumbik Council says its is aware of a proposal to develop a Battery Energy Storage System on land in Middle Hut Rd, Doreen. A planning permit application is expected to be lodged with the Minister for Planning next month seeking approval for the project. The site is located in the Green Wedge Zone, is partially affected by Environmental Significance Overlay Schedule 1, and is within a designated bushfire prone area and an area of aboriginal cultural heritage sensitivity. “This proposal will not be assessed through a Nillumbik planning permit application. Instead, it is expected to be considered by the Minister for Planning under the Significant Economic Development provisions (Clause 53.22 of the Nillumbik Planning Scheme),” said a Nillumbik Shire Council representative. “As part of that process, the application will likely be referred to Council for comment. “The proposal will need to be publicly advertised, giving residents and other interested parties an opportunity to make a submission or object. Those submissions will be considered as part of the Minister's assessment. “The final decision will be made by the Minister for Planning. There are no third-party appeal rights for either Council or the community in relation to the Minister's decision under this process. Council has not formed a position on the proposal at this stage. Any submission from Council would be based on an assessment of the application and supporting technical reports once they are formally referred to Council.”

● Sonya Kilkenny, Planning Minister

News and Sport Yea Golf Club ■ Wednesday (Aug. 19) saw five men start the round, but persistent rain meant that only four made it to the finish. There was no competition on the day. Saturday (Aug. 22), after two days without rain, saw 20 men play the first round of the A. H. Smith Trophy, played as a Stableford, while seven ladies contested their Monthly Medal. The men’s winner was Alan Pell (14) with 35 points, followed by Tom White (16) on 33 points. Paul Heyen (23) finished third on a countback from Andrew Bohn (5) in fourth. There was no NTP on the 18th, while John Renehan won the Club Award. In the first semi-final of the Club Knockout, Luke Gregory defeated Zach Pell 29 points to 27. The other semi-final between Bob Glenister and Peter Johnston will be played shortly. Next Saturday is the second and final round of the A. H. Smith Trophy. In the Ladies’ event, players found the course heavy. In the Monthly Medal, Sharon Grogan (23) was the winner with a nett 79, followed by Cindy Armstrong (32) with a nett 84.

Alan Pell

Universal bans ■ McEwen MHR Rob Mitchell confirms critical ‘banned in one, banned in all’ child protection legislation is now in place across all states and territories. This means if a person is rejected from holding a Working With Children Check in one jurisdiction, they are rejected in all – banned in one, banned in all. This milestone comes after the passing of Western Australia’s Working with Children (Screening) Amendment Act 2025, joining all other states and territories in mutual recognition of negative WWCC notices. “This sends a very clear message – if you are banned from holding a Working With Children Check in one jurisdiction, you are banned in all,” Mr Mitchell said. “The Albanese Government is committed to continuing to drive and strengthen protections for children and we thank all states and territories for supporting this vital initiative.” Strengthening WWCC regimes forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to prevent harm and abuse, including through the development of a Second Action Plan under the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Child Sexual Abuse 2021-2030.

Unpaid rates ■ Nillumbik Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a proposed policy designed to provide a framework for recovering long-term unpaid rates and charges. The policy formalises the Council's approach to managing significant, long-standing unpaid rate debts and ensures any future decisions are guided by a consistent and accountable process. Nillumbik Mayor Cr Naomi Joiner said the proposed policy is about fairness, responsible financial management and protecting the services relied upon by the broader community. "Rates are an important source of funding for local roads, parks, community facilities, waste services and many of the services residents use every day," Cr Joiner said. "The vast majority of Nillumbik ratepayers either pay their rates on time or contact Council to discuss support options when they're experiencing financial hardship. "We recognise that many people are facing cost-of-living pressures, which is why Council remains committed to providing payment plans, hardship arrangements and other support measures for eligible ratepayers." A Council representative said: “The proposed policy makes clear that Council will continue to exhaust all reasonable avenues to recover outstanding debts before considering any legal enforcement options. “Council's proposed approach would not apply to a person's primary place of residence. "This policy is not about taking people's homes," Cr Joiner said. "It is about ensuring there is a clear framework in place to address very limited cases of long-term unpaid rates where repeated attempts to engage with the property owner have been unsuccessful and all available support options have been exhausted." Feedback on the proposed policy can be lodged through the Participate Nillumbik website until September 6.

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Whittlesea District-Kinglake Whittlesea, Kinglake, Doreen, Donnybrook, Humevale, Kinglake, Kinglake West, Mernda, Pheasant Creek, South Morang, Wollert and Yan Yean.

3000 sign petition ■ More than 3000 residents have signed onto the official Victorian Parliamentary epetition against the fast-tracked South Morang mega data centre campus. The State Government’s planning loopholes have stripped the City of Whittlesea and local residents of a right to object, says Stop the South Morang Data Centres group

SERIOUS CRASH AT WOLLERT

Whittlesea-Kinglake MILL PARK

4 carjackings ■ Detectives from the Whittlesea Crime Investigation Unit have charged two men following a series of incidents in the Whittlesea area on Wednesday morning (Aug. 12). It is alleged the pair, travelling in a purple Holden Commodore, were involved in: ■ an attempted carjacking outside a shopping centre on Childs Rd in Mill Park ■ two attempted carjackings in the vicinity of a primary school on Blamey Ave in Mill Park ■ an attempted carjacking at a 7 Eleven on Childs Rd, Mill Park.

WHITTLESEA

Rat Pack Reunion ■ Sports identities Alan Didak, Heath Shaw, Dane Swan and Ben Johnston will present the Rat Pack Reunion from 7.30pm on Tuesday, September 22 at the Whittlesea Bowls Club, 101 Church St, Whittlesea. Doors open at 5pm, and photos will be taken at 7pm. General admission: $55. The event is limited to 150 guests.

Jashanpreet Singh Cemix - Somerton & Whittlesea 0485 700 052 enquiry@cemixvic.com.au www.cemixvic.com.au Locations 116–122 Somerton Rd, Somerton 2410 Plenty Rd, Whittlesea

Whittlesea Flowers and Bears 61 Church St, Whittlesea

Phone 9716 1255 info@whittleseaflower.com.au

All Functions Available! Bistro 7 Days a week 9716 1966 www.whittleseabowls.com.au Pizza • Pasta • Friendly Service Book a Table Friday–Sunday and Receive 10% OFF Your Meal! Whether it's a family dinner, date night or catching up with friends, LITTLE ITALY offers authentic Italian cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 1274 Whittlesea-Yea Road, Kinglake West VIC 5786 5216 Dine In • Takeaway • Fully Licensed

3/56-62 Church St, Whittlesea Phone: 1300 006 693 Reservations: resos.com

HUME FREEWAY

3 times over limit ● A serious collision at the intersection of Craigieburn Rd East and Evolve Esplanade, Wollert. Photo: Victoria Police. ■ Greensborough Highway Patrol attended a serious collision at the intersection of Craigieburn Rd East and Evolve Esplanade, Wollert, at 12.15am on Wednesday (Aug. 12). The vehicle involved, a white 2012 Chrysler 300C was allegedly being driven at excessive speed prior to the collision. Despite the significant damage sustained in the crash, the 21-year-old male P2 probationary driver escaped with only minor injuries.

Police are seeking witnesses or dash camera footage from anyone who may have observed the vehicle prior to the collision. Witnesses are asked to c ontact Greensborough Highway Patrol on 8432 0200 or provide information anonymously via Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com.au. “The image is a stark reminder of how quickly poor decisions behind the wheel can have serious, life-changing consequences,” a Police representative said.

Firefighters speak at Probus ■ A trio of Country Fire Authority members addressed Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea members at their August meeting. Captain Richard Gardiner; Justin Meli, firefighter and Land Use Planning CoOrdinator; and Rachelle Bishop, the Secretary and Reporting Officer attended. A firefighting team was established as the Whittlesea Fire Brigade by local volunteers on December 17, 1926, following severe bushfires that swept from the Mt Disappointment Ranges. The CFA was formed in 1943. It is still a volunteer fire service that has a presence in 1200 locations across Victoria. Captain Richard led the presentation with a particular emphasis on the golden anniversary festivities currently being formalised. Whittlesea CFA was one of the first brigades to take on increased skills to assist Ambulance Victoria as part of the Emergency Medical Response project, now referred to as Fire Medical Response. The focus of Richard’s messaging was about home safety and actions that the public should consider. For the farm and forest areas of Whittlesea Shire a Bush Fire plan is vital. Justin Meli explained how the CFA is part of Victorian Planning Provisions, which regulate land use and devel-

■ Police responded to a collision on the Hume Freeway where a 20-year-old male P2 probationary driver crashed into an Armco steel barrier at high speed. He later returned an alleged breath alcohol concentration reading of 0.182. His licence was suspended on the spot for a period of 12 months.

KINGLAKE

McErlain re-signs ■ Tom McErlain (nicknamed ‘TMac’) has re-signed for the 2027 season with the Kinglake Football Netball Club.

MILL PARK

Car impounded ■ On a cold winters night in Mill Park, a male had warmed himself up with a bottle of red wine before deciding to test his luck at the Booze Bus on Plenty Rd, Mill Park. The male's provided a positive breath sample at 0.115 His vehicle was impounded for 30 days, at a cost of $999.52. He was also immediately suspended from driving for 11 months, and will appear before the magistrate at Heidelberg on summons.

EPPING

Study hub helps

● Justin Meli, Land Use Planning -Captain Richard Gardiner and Coordinator Rachelle Bishop opment to manage bushfire hazards and risks. The local council draws information from all agencies when making a decision about a Planning Application before making the decision. Justin’s message was that fire does not consider planning permits, again reinforcing the need for a dedicated Bush Fire Plan. In the event that the CFA responds to a fire the Crew Leader makes the decision for safety of the crew and whether to stay and fight or abort. He explained about fire hydrants locations and how the road markings indicate their presence.

All properties need to have large highly visible numbers so delays are not encountered. The entrance, driveways and an eight meter turning circle at rural properties are all vital and detailed so that fire vehicles can safely enter. Little time was left for Rachelle Bishop to address her topic but for a glossary of past and present members of Whittlesea Country Fire Brigade. She did get in a plug for the upcoming Torchlight Parade on August 29 to celebrate 100 years of service. The time allocated for the meeting came to an end with members wishing for more.

Michael Halley

■ The Northern Study Hub in Epping has marked its first anniversary in operation, with more than 200 tertiary and TAFE students now registered to attend the site. The Study Hub, led by La Trobe University and located within Melbourne Polytechnic Library, has spent the year helping tertiary students in Melbourne’s north kick learning goals.

THOMASTOWN

Walking event ■ Walking Thomastown returns on Saturday, August 29, inviting local people to grab a torch and walking shoes for a magical evening through the suburb. “Wander along paths of glowing neon lights and creative art installations, enjoy live music, and discover local stories and history in a new light,” said a Whittlesea City representative.

WHITTLESEA

CEO starts Sept. 1 ■ Dan Hogan commences at the City of Whittlesea as its new Chief Executive Officer, commencing on Tuesday, September 1. Mr Hogan has held held senior leadership roles at the City of Melton, Brimbank City Council and the City of Kingston.

The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026 - Page 17

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The Yea Paper Devlin's Bridge, Flowerdale, Glenburn, Highlands, Homewood, Kerrisdale, Killingworth, Limestone, Molesworth, Murrindindi, Yea

Yea District Briefs YEA

Cricket training ■ Yea Tigers Cricket Club is commencing pre-season training from 6pm, Tuesday, September 1, at the Yarra Glen indoor nets. New coach Beau Hawkins has taken charge. He has previously represented Yarra Junction, Healesville, Clyde, Alberton Ormeau and Surfers Paradise cricket clubs. As an all-rounder, and scored 431 runs last season at Yarra Junction, l;ed the 2nd XI, and was named No. 6 in their team of the year.

YEA

Stock Workshop ■ A VFF Stock Sense Workshop: Buying Livestock with Confidence will be held on Friday, August 28, supported by the Yea Saleyards.

YEA

Garden Expo soon ■ Preparations are underway for the Yea Garden Expo to be held on Saturday-Sunday, Seoptember 19-20, to be held at the Yea Saleyards. Two Spring gardens will be available for inspection for $10. A Speakers Program is planned at the main site.

MOLESWORTH

Blackberry control ■ Molesworth Hall will be the venue for a Blackberry Control Workshop to be held at 9am-11am on Wednesday, September 9. Light refreshments will be available from 8.30am. Agriculture Victoria and Upper Goulburn Landcare Network will join with Murrindindi Council to organise the event.

NEW FOOD VAN ARRIVES ■ Yea Community House has taken delivery of its new food caravan. The outside and kitchen fitout were completed by the team at Spitfire Vintage Caravans. Stage Two of the project, involves applying for further grant funding to purchase the appliances, equipment, signage and other items needed to turn the unit into a fully functioning mobile kitchen. Ausnet funding made this project possible. Organisers thanked Cass, Jim, Dale and Deluxe Rod Shop. “Thank you to everyone in our community who has supported the project along the way,” said a Community House representative. “We’re incredibly excited about what this van will eventually be able to offer our community - from providing meals and support during emergencies such as fires, floods and power outages, to creating opportunities to serve food and drinks at local events, to help raise funds to keep her on the road. “If all goes to plan, we’re hoping to officially launch the food van at the October Yea Cruise Night. nd a visit to Yea Railway Market.” There are still quite a few appliances to buy as the project finally takes shape.

DINDI BEES Charlie Nancarrow The Honey Bank with Dindi Bee Supplies 34B High St, Yea. Phone: 0413 627 194 9696 6096

● Volunteer Jim with the new van. Photo: Facebook.

The Alex Paper Acheron, Alexandra, Buxton, Cathkin, Crystal Creek, Devil's River, Eildon, Fawcett, Kanumbra, Koriella, Maintongoon, Marysville, Nabethong, Taggerty, Thornton, Whanregarwen and Yarck.

Alexandra Briefs ALEXANDRA

Baton passed on

TALKS ABOUT GRANT ST

■ The Rotary Club of Alexandra received the End Polio baton and fluffy character ‘Big Ted’ last week from Yea Rotarian Ken Maxfield. The 3717 club conducted a free barbcue and fairy floss session outside Yenckens in the main street of Yea. The baton had previously been with the Rotary Club of Seymour.

FAWCETT

Push for a bridge ■ Locals at Fawcett won publicity on the Jacqui Felgate ‘drive’ radio program on Melbourne radio station 3AW to publicise the need for a new $800,000 bridge on Spring Creek Rd. Hall President Sam Hicks advocated for the funding, saying that only 50mm of rainfall demonstrated how vulnerable local residents are.

ALEXANDRA

Ladies Day held ■ Alexandra Football-Netball Club held a Ladies Day at Rebel Park on Saturday, August 8, that included champagne on arrival, grazing, goodie bags, a spinning wheel and cocktails.

EILDON

Lake at 54% ■ Readings taken last Wednesday (Aug. 12) show Lake Eildon to be at 54 per cent, compared to 56.9 per cent at the same time last year. This was an increase of 220mm for the previous 24 hours. Lake Eildon inflow is approximately 16,000 meg per day.

● Grant St, Alexandra

■ Consultation closes on Sunday, September 6, for feedback on the future of Alexandra’s town centre through a new Grant Street Safety and Streetscape Improvement Plan. Murrindindi Council has already secured funding for several important safety improvements within the Grant St precinct and is now asking the community to help identify priorities for the next stage of improvements. “Community feedback will help shape a long-term vision for the town centre, strengthen Council's advocacy to other levels of government and position future projects for funding opportunities,” a Murrindindi Shire representative said. “Grant St is the heart of Alexandra, connecting local businesses, schools, community services, events and public spaces. “Council is seeking feedback on how it is used, where improvements could be made and what opportunities could be considered to create a safer, more accessible and more vibrant town centre. Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the project gives the community a genuine opportunity to help shape the future of one of Alexandra’s most important public spaces. "Grant St is much more than Alexandra’s main street. It’s where people come together. It’s where people shop, meet friends, access services, attend events and experience the best of our town," Cr Gallagher said. "We’ve already secured funding for several important safety improvements, and now we’re looking beyond those projects. “This is an opportunity for the community to help shape a long-term vision for Grant St so we’re ready to advocate for future investment as funding opportunities arise." Murrindindi Council is progressing several grant funded safety projects in the precinct.

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Seniors News

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Home Show this week Home Sweet Home Filter developed ■ UNSW engineers have added sensors and real-time weather forecasts into socalled rain gardens to create a smarter way to stop contaminants from flowing into waterways. Researchers from UNSW Sydney have developed a smart stormwater treatment system that can automatically adapt to changing weather conditions, significantly improving its ability to remove harmful pollutants before they reach the environment. The work is designed to reduce the significant ecological impacts that can be caused by polluted stormwater reaching streams, rivers and coastal waters – including increased algae blooms, reduced oxygen availability for fish and other aquatic animals, and the threat of toxic materials entering the food chain.

Insurance query ■ Just one in nine homeowners (11.5 per cent) feel confident they know what it would cost to rebuild their home at today's construction prices, according to new Compare the Market research. The study highlights a concerning knowledge gap that could leave thousands of Australians underinsured. The survey found 34.7 per cent of homeowners did not feel confident setting a rebuild value for their property, while 53.6 per cent said they had a rough idea but did not feel completely sure. When asked to describe their current level of insurance coverage, 15.4 per cent of respondents worried they could be underinsured and 14.8 per cent were unsure whether they had the right amount of cover, while around a quarter (24.6 per cent) felt they could be overinsured or paying for features they did not need. Only 45 per cent of respondents believed they had the right level of cover. Compare the Market Economic Director David Koch said some Australians could be "catastrophically underinsured" without knowing it, while others could be wasting hundreds or even thousands of dollars on cover they do not need.

● The Melbourne Home Show 2026 runs from Friday (Aug. 21) to Sunday (Aug. 23)at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in South Wharf. Doors are open daily from 10am to 6pm. Admission is free, but visitors must register for a ticket online beforehand. There will be more than 150 brands showcasing kitchenware, bathroom fittings, smart home tech-

nology, furniture, and building supplies.The Garden Hub is a dedicated outdoor landscaping and styling feature crafted by ShapeScaper.Free Seminars: Talks and practical advice from top Australian builders, interior designers, and renovation experts on the Home Inspo stage. There will be opportunities to win prizes like a micro home or $5000 toward a dream renovation.

$2000 MORE FOR AIRCON UPGRADES ■ Victorian households planning a ducted or large multi-head reverse cycle air conditioning upgrade face a $2000 increase in the minimum amount they must pay from September 30. Under changes announced for the Victorian Energy Upgrades program, the mandatory minimum customer contribution for ducted reverse cycle systems and multi-split systems with a cooling capacity of 10kW or more will rise from $1000 to $3000 including GST. The change takes effect from September 30. Multi-split systems below 10kW will retain the existing $1000 minimum contribution, while smaller non-ducted reverse cycle systems below 10kW remain subject to a $200 minimum contribution. Victorian households can check the current rebate amounts, eligibility requirements and which systems are affected by the September changes through the Air Conditioning Rebate Victorian Guide at https://airconditioningrebate.com.au/vic The State Government is also introducing a cap on incentives available for large multi-split systems as part of changes aimed at improving system sizing and reducing incentives for oversized installations. "For anyone whose ducted or large multihead installation would have come close to the current minimum contribution, this is effectively a $2000 increase overnight," Efficient Energy Group Managing Director Joshua Liptak said. "The rebate is not disappearing, and there are sensible reasons behind the changes, particularly around system sizing and quality. "But if a whole-of-home reverse cycle upgrade was already something you intended to do this year, there is now a very real financial difference between completing it before and after 30 September." The Victorian Energy Upgrades program currently offers households discounts of up to $5,530 when replacing ducted gas

● Joshua Liptak

heating with an efficient ducted reverse cycle air conditioner. Households replacing a non-ducted gas heater can access discounts of up to $1610, depending on the system installed and other eligibility factors. Mr Liptak said households should not allow the deadline to push them into making a rushed purchase. "There will inevitably be a lot of advertising telling people they need to sign immediately before the rules change," he said. "Get your quotes now, absolutely, but do not rush a major home upgrade just because somebody puts a countdown clock in front of you. "A ducted system can be a significant investment. There is still enough time to obtain two or three quotes, check the proposed system size and compare what is actually included before making a decision.\" He said the change would primarily affect households considering larger wholeof-home systems.

Home Affairs Leading uptake ■ Australians living in outer suburbs with high rates of rooftop solar are leading the nation’s electric vehicle uptake, new data shows. Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen has highlighted how household energy and transport policies are working together to reduce cost-of-living pressures. The National Automotive Leasing and Salary Packaging Association’s Q2 2026 analysis reveals that outer-suburban and growth-area communities dominated the top 10 postcodes nationally for battery electric vehicles purchased through novated leasing and the Electric Car Discount. All top 10 postcodes recorded rooftop solar densities above their respective state and territory averages, highlighting the strong overlap between rooftop solar and EV uptake, with home batteries further increasing the opportunity for households to use lower-cost solar energy to charge their vehicles. Victoria experienced particularly strong growth in BEV uptake in Q2 2026, with five postcodes featuring in the nation’s top 10. Tarneit leads the list.

Harder to hit target ■ "It gets harder for Australia to build the 1.2 million homes governments have committed too," said HIA Chief Economist, Tim Reardon. New Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangements can no longer be used by Self-Managed Super Funds to build new residential homes. The Housing Industry Association has consistently warned that removing this source of finance from the housing market will reduce investment in new homes at precisely the time Australia needs significantly more housing. "Initial analysis indicates that the SMSF ban is likely to have a greater adverse impact on the supply of new homes than the Government's changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax combined," said HIA Chief Economist, Tim Reardon.

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Artwork courtesy Mountain Monthly

Homemaker

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Homemaker

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Great Destinations. Interesting Things To Do. Fascinating People To Meet.

Places To Go www.Places2Go.com.au

Travel Briefs World first ■ A world first hot air balloon flight across Kati Thanda Lake Eyre - brought together pilots and crew from Australia and overseas, including Mildura pilot Ben Gowers, who flew solo across the lake, and, Melbourne based father and son team Kiff and Pat Saunders of Global Ballooning Australia.

Empire State ■ The Empire State Building Observation Deck atop the “World’s Most Famous Building,” has announced new ticket bundle options for families of all ages to save on their visit to the famed New York City landmark. Groups of four who purchase the new Family Ticket Bundle can save up to 20 percent on tickets to the Empire State Building.

Deposit pledge ■ The launch of the Crusader Deposit Promise – protects up to 10 per cent of a customer’s total order value if an authorised dealer is unable to fulfil the initial order. Applying to eligible Crusader Caravan orders placed with an authorised Crusader dealer, the Deposit Promise is said to ensures customers’ place in the Crusader production schedule remains secure. “In the unlikely event an authorised Crusader dealer is unable to fulfil the order, Crusader will transfer the order to another authorised dealer and honour up to 10 per centof the total order value toward the caravan build,” said a media release.

AWARDS FOR VICTORIA’S BEST ■ Tasman Holiday Parks – Bright and Amberlee Woodlands Estate have been named Victoria's leading tourist and residential parks at the 2026 Caravan and Residential Parks Victoria Awards. The two major awards were announced at the YMH CRPVic Gala Awards Dinner at Marvel Stadium, which brought together park owners and their teams, industry suppliers, government representatives and industry leaders to recognise excellence across Victoria's tourist and residential parks sector. Tasman Holiday Parks – Bright was crowned the 2026 CRPVic Tourist and Mixed-Use Caravan Park of the Year, recognising excellence across all areas of the park's operation and performance. Through strategic investment in premium accommodation, innovative technology, sustain-ability initiatives and exceptional guest service, the park has delivered outstanding commercial performance while achieving one of the highest guest satisfaction ratings in Bright. Its long-term vision, commitment to continuous improvement and focus on delivering exceptional visitor experiences have established Tasman Holiday Parks – Bright as a strong benchmark for Victoria's tourist park industry. Amberlee Woodlands Estate received the Peter Crawford Residential Caravan Park of the Year Award. Woodlands Estate, located in Rosebud, has created a boutique residential community with thoughtful design.

Travel Briefs Baggage fee ■ Nearly two-thirds of Aussies feel guilty spending money on travel as new baggage fee debate heats up Aussies are changing the way they travel to save money, with one in four willing to travel off-season and one in six opting for domestic holidays over overseas trips.

Class action ■ Slater and Gordon Lawyers has filed a shareholder class action in the Supreme Court of Victoria against Web Travel Group Ltd, a global B2B travel services company. The specialist plaintiff firm has commenced the proceeding on behalf of the lead plaintiff, a self-managed super fund, and other investors who acquired Web Travel shares between March and October 2024

● Woodlands Estate at Amberlee.

Latest award recipients ■ Steve Bartlett, Chair's Award: Neary family (Mornington Peninsula) ■ David Pratt, Unsung Hero Award: Tamina Bettess – Bushman's Rest Caravan Park (Cullulleraine) ■ Bob and Shirley Murray Community Partnership Award: Kerang Holiday Park (Kerang) ■ James Kelly Employee Achiever of the Year: Lauren Crosbie – Amberlee Family Holidays (Rosebud) ■ Elizabeth White Green Park Award: Apex RiverBeach Holiday Park (Mildura) ■ Peter Buttigieg Innovation Award: Boort Lakes Holiday Park (Boort) ■ Golightly Family Marketing Award: BIG4 Wilsons Prom Holiday Park (Yanakie) ■ Rob Ensink Jayco Associate Member of the Year: Aubin Environmental ■ Peter Crawford Residential Caravan Park of the Year: Amberlee Family Holidays – Woodlands Estate (Rosebud) ■ CRPVic Tourist and Mixed-Use Caravan Park of the Year: Tasman Holiday Parks – Bright (Bright)

Safari rethink ■ The Great Migration is a continuous movement of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem, shaped by rainfall, grazing and instinct rather than fixed calendar dates. That means the best experience is not always about being in the most famous place at the most famous time. It is about understanding what is happening in the ecosystem, and choosing a safari that matches the type of experience you actually want. “The Great Migration is so often reduced to one famous river-crossing moment,” says Deon De Villiers, founder of Safari Guru. The real magic is much broader than that.

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Places To Go

Esperance, Bremer Bay at Wildflower Time Stirling Ranges, Southern Wildflowers Tasmania, the Apple Isle WA’s Coral Coast, Perth to Broome Kimberley Dreaming Broome to Kununurra Savannah Way Kununurra to Cairns Legendary Outback Tours Flinders Ranges/Lake Eyre/Coober Pedy

11 Oct to 15 Oct 25 Oct to 28 Oct 15 Mar to 26 Mar 18 Apr to 29 Apr

5 days from $1,750 4 days from $1,490 12 days from $5,350 12 days from $5,600

9 May to 17 May 23 May to 5 June 8 June to 19 June 17 July to 25 July

9 days from $5,450 14 days from $6,100 12 days from $6,550 9 days from $4,980

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

Bush Telegraph Bird flu update ■ New positive detections of H5 bird flu have been confirmed in Victoria in the recent days as the virus continues to move through wild bird populations. No detections have yet been found in poultry or other animals. As at Friday (Aug. 14), there were 11 new positive detections of H5 bird flu. Detections were primarily along the south-west coast (in Warrnambool, near Apollo Bay and at Port Fairy), with one at Christmas Hill. Terns accounted for most of the new detections, with two silver gulls and a fluttering shearwater also identified. The total current number of positive detections statewide is 71 from 50 investigations.

Wild dog control ■ A Liberals and Nationals Government will restore effective wild dog control and give farmers the tools they need to protect their livestock and livelihoods. Deputy Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Emma Kealy, said farmers deserved practical, evidence-based wild dog management that recognised the realities of farming alongside public land. “Farmers should be able to protect their livestock and their livelihoods,” Ms Kealy said.

Danielle Roche leads Goulburn Valley Water ■ Danielle Roche has been appointed as Managing Director of Goulburn Valley Water. Board Chair, Mark Stone, said the appointment followed an extensive recruitment process. "Danielle brings more than 20 years’ experience across the water and energy sectors, most recently as General Manager Digital Business Enablement at AusNet Services. “Her career includes senior leadership roles at Queensland Urban Utilities, Veolia Water Technologies and City West Water, where she led large, multi-disciplinary teams responsible for critical water, wastewater and energy infrastructure", said Mr Stone. Danielle’s experience spans asset management, infrastructure planning, engineering, digital transformation, commercial partnership management and safety. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental) with Honours and a Master of Water Resources Management (both from Deakin University) and completed the Purposeful Leader program at Harvard Business School in 2023. “We look forward to welcoming Danielle to GVW and to the Goulburn Valley region,” Mr Stone said.

Whiparound From petting farm ■ “Victoria is set to record its highest number of infections from a dangerous bacterium that causes violent illness and has hospitalised two children with kidney failure,” reported The Age. “The Department of Health is investigating two cases in which previously healthy toddlers developed a serious kidney condition linked to the bacteria after visiting the same petting farm.”

State of the State ■ The Victorian Farmers Federation is encouraging farmers and regional Victorians to have their say in the second annual State of the State: Victorian Farmer Priorities Survey, in what’s shaping as a regional check ahead of November's Victorian State Election. The survey aims to capture the issues, challenges and opportunities facing Victorian agriculture, providing a Statewide snapshot of farmer sentiment in every corner of Victoria.

Ryegrass adapts

● Danielle Roche

■ A study by La Trobe University researchers has found annual ryegrass, the most damaging weed in Australian grain systems, can adjust its growth to survive under drought stress, making it harder to manage as climate conditions become more variable.

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Places To Go

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Places To Go

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Places To Go

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Build your own platter using local produce

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Places To Go

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Latest News BROADMEADOWS

Man charged ■ Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man as part of their investigation into the death of a man in Broadmeadows. A 23-year-old man, who is currently in custody on unrelated matters, was charged with murder. He was to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on August 17. The charges follow an incident on July 21 where an injured man was located unresponsive outside a property on Graham St. The 40-year-old Broadmeadows man was treated at the scene but passed away.

CARDINIA

Thefts of copper ■ Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a spate of thefts of copper from suburbs within the Cardinia Shire, between May 9 and August 12. It is alleged copper cabling was stolen from businesses, worksites, telecommunication pits and high voltage kiosks, impacting critical infrastructure across the municipality. Police will allege that the value and damage caused by the offending has amounted to over $350,000 and has had significant impacts on service providers, small businesses and the local community. Detectives attended a Pakenham address and arrested a man on August 12. He has been charged with 43 offences including multiple burglaries, thefts, criminal damage, possess a controlled weapon and commit an indictable offence whilst on bail. A 29-year-old Wollert man was remanded in custody and will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 4.

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RISKY BEHAVIOUR ON ROADS TO THE SNOW

■ Police are pleading with motorists to take extra care on roads when heading to the state’s snowfields after issuing another 200 infringement notices. The warning also comes following a tragic fatality at Mount Buller where a 27-yearold male passenger died after a tree fell on the vehicle travelling along Mount Buller Rd around 9:15am. Operation Eastern Snow has seen police highly visible and enforcing on roads heading to and from Victoria’s alpine areas, including Mount Buller, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham. Police detected 201 offences over a three-day period, including: ■ 147 speeding offences, including 109 for travelling between 15-kmh and 25-kmh over the speed limit ■ 19 unregistered vehicles ■ 12 defect notices issued to unsafe vehicles ■ 7 heavy vehicle offences ■ 7 seatbelt offences ■ 3 drug driving offences from ■ 68 roadside drug tests ■ 2 drink driving offences from ■ 684 preliminary breath tests ■ A total 473 motorists intercepted Wangaratta Highway Patrol impounded a Ford Raptor on Friday, August 7, at approximately 9.42pm when it was observed by police overtaking five vehicles at 152-kmh in a

100-kmh zone on Snow Road in Whorouly, with the driver to be summonsed to court and the vehicle impounded for 30 days. The recent detections for Operation Eastern Snow follow a further 213 offences detected by police between July 24-26. Police are promising to continue cracking down on drivers who show a blatant disregard for the road rules when heading to the snow, with the operation set to continue during the remaining snow season. Motorists are being urged to drive to the conditions, particularly during treacherous weather periods and are being reminded to slow down, remain alert on unfamiliar roads and allow plenty of

travel time, especially during busy periods. All vehicles entering alpine areas during the declared snow season are required by law to carry wheel chains and fit them when instructed. Failure to carry chains may result in a $418 fine, while failing to fit them when required may attract a $1046 penalty. Car snow chains are essential for navigating steep, icy roads and can be the difference between staying on the road or sliding off it. Eastern Region Road Policing Inspector, Jarrad Dowswell said: “It is extremely concerning that we continue to detect such high levels of non-compliance by drivers travelling to and from the alpine areas.”

Statewide VICTORIA

150 extra PSOs ■ Victoria Police resources will be bolstered with an additional 150 Protective Services Officers (PSOs) announced last week. Efforts at retail areas will also be strengthened, with Operation Pulse to be expanded to more areas and to extend throughout The additional PSOs will support existing presence on the public transport network, as well as assisting in hospital guard and crime scene duties to help free up police. The retail areas covered by Operation Pulse will be expanded to include busy suburban shopping strips and more shopping centres across the state. The expansion of Operation Pulse will see more retail areas patrolled each day, increasing to six areas from the current four. Current locations include Pacific Werribee, Bayside Frankston, Highpoint, Fountain Gate, Northland, Watergardens, Southland, Eastland and key CBD retail locations in Geelong. It’s expected further locations will be confirmed in October with patrols to start occurring as soon as possible. All shifts are voluntary, meaning there is no impact on the public transport system or frontline policing as officers are working at shopping centres in addition to existing shifts. Since Operation Pulse commenced in December last year, it has led to: ■ 1766 arrests ■ 3562 charges laid with shop steal (1798) and drug offences (288) ■ 248 weapons seized ■ 756 cautions issued ■ 301 drugs seized ■ 591 fines issued Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said: “The expansion of operation pulse means we can deploy our resources to more areas where and when they are needed. “The additional PSOs will play a crucial role in ensuring our community is safe and feels safe.”

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www.LocalPaper.com.au MARKETING FEATURE

Enrolments 2027 Ainslie Parklands Primary School

■ Leading Little Learners to Big Futures Looking for a school where your child is known, supported and inspired to achieve their best? Ainslie Parklands Primary School offers a welcoming, inclusive learning environment where every child is encouraged to thrive. There have been some exciting changes at Ainslie Parklands Primary School this year, including the arrival of our new Principal, Angela Tough. Since joining our community, Angela has brought a fresh perspective, positive energy and a strong focus on student learning and wellbeing. Families have shared wonderful feedback about her approachable nature, visibility around the school, and genuine commitment to building strong relationships with students, staff and parents. There is a real sense of optimism and momentum across our school. Why choose Ainslie Parklands Primary School? Small class sizes with personalised attention.

Evidence-based teaching that builds strong foundations. Extension opportunities for high achievers. Hands-on, imaginative learning with purposeful use of technology. Strong focus on oral language and collaborative learning. Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, supported by our student kitchen, gardens and orchard. Specialist programs including Auslan, Art, Music, Performing Arts, Gardening and STEM. Interschool sport, swimming and quality PE. Whole-school wellbeing approach incorporating School-wide Positive Behaviour Support, the Berry Street Education Model and Friendology. Lunchtime clubs including Junior Landcare, Lego and Sport. Book a school tour today and experience everything Ainslie Parklands Primary School has to offer. We look forward to welcoming your family.

St Monica’s College 400 Dalton Rd, Epping

St Bernard’s Primary School East Coburg

● Julie Di Noto

■ 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 Dominc’s Camberwell East

Principal: Natalie Kenny. Address: 145 Highfield Road, Camberwell 3124 Phone: 9836 8300 Email: principal@sdcamberwelleast.catholic.edu.au Meet the Principal: Mr Brian Hanley OAM For more than 35 years, Mr Brian Hanley OAM has led St Monica's College with vision, integrity and an unwavering commitment to Catholic education. Recognised nationally for over 50 years of service to education, his leadership has shaped generations of students and helped establish St Monica's College, Epping as a thriving, inclusive coeducational learning community. Awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2021, Mr Hanley is passionate about creating opportunities for every student to succeed. Having seen more than 40,000 students pass through the College, he remains a strong advocate for coeducation, believing it prepares young people to engage confidently and respectfully in the wider world. Under his leadership, St Monica's College, Epping has continued to grow while

■ NAME: St Monica’s College ■ ADDRESS: 400 Dalton Road, Epping, Vic. 3076 ■ PHONE: 9409 8800 ■ WEBSITE: www.stmonicasepping.com ■ EMAIL: registrar@stmonicasepping.com remaining true to its core values of faith, excellence and inclusion. His dedication to supporting students, staff and families continues to shape the College community and influence Catholic education more broadly, strengthening the foundations for future generations of learners. Guided by the belief that every student matters, Mr Hanley continues to inspire our community through his humility, service and commitment to helping young people reach their full potential.

■ My name is Natalie Kenny and it is my honour and privilege to lead the St. Dominic’s school community. As a Catholic educator of more than 30 years and a parent of two, I deeply understand the importance of selecting the right primary school for your child and family. Choosing a school is a significant decision for every family. We invite you to visit us and experience our learning culture, meet our community, and ask the questions that matter most to you at this very important time for your family. At St.Dominic’s we pride ourselves on being a warm, welcoming, supportive and inclusive community and we deeply value the partnership between school and home. Every child is truly valued, known, celebrated and empowered and are always at the heart of all we do. We believe that wellbeing is central to successful learning.

Children who feel happy, confident and supported form strong connections, achieve positive learning outcomes and flourish in all aspects of school life. This is at the core of our work and our community. At St.Dominic’s we truly live the African proverb,”It takes a village to raise a child”. Our Dominican Charism shapes everything we do: grounded in Prayer, Learning Service and Community, which is lived and celebrated daily. St. Dominic’s offers diverse, enriching and engaging learning programs, contemporary learning spaces, strong student voice and agency and tailored learning support. We have dedicated and professional staff who are committed to each child’s growth. Often described as ‘the hidden gem of Camberwell’, I warmly invite you and your family to discover the St. Dom’s Difference for yourself.

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NEWS • SHOWBIZ •LIFESTYLE • TRAVEL • FEATURES • BARGAINS • SPORT 57 years. Since 1969.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2026

Police Beat 14 caught in blitz ■ Police detected 14 drink and drug drivers during a Friday night road policing blitz in Geelong. Operation Corral involved the Road Policing Drug and Alcohol Section, State Highway Patrol and the Solo Unit, utilising booze buses, highway patrol vehicles and police motorcycles to target impaired drivers and high-risk driving behaviour in the Geelong area on Friday (Aug. 21). Police conducted 1,353 preliminary breath tests, with 10 drivers caught exceeding the alcohol limit – a strike rate of one in every 135 drivers tested. Police intercepted a vehicle which attempt to turn off to avoid a booze bus on Bacchus Marsh Road, Corio at approximately 9:57pm on Friday evening, with the 20-year-old female driver allegedly returning a positive roadside drug test, resulting in a $627 penalty and SIXmonth licence suspension. While waiting for the evidentiary drug test to be performed, her passenger, a 31-year- old female, jumped in the driver’s seat to locate a nearby restroom, performed a u-turn onto Bacchus Marsh Rd and was then directed straight into the bus testing site they had initially avoided and allegedly returned a breath test result of 0.133.

WOMAN DIES AFTER KNOX CRASH ■ Police are investigating after a car struck a pedestrian and crashed into a café at a shopping centre in Wantirna South on Monday afternoon (Aug. 24). It is believed a woman was struck by the car before it crashed into the premises on Burwood Hwy about 12.45pm. The female pedestriandied at the scene. A diner seated outside the café was assessed by Ambulance paramedics. The driver of the vehicle, a 51-year-old woman from Wantirna, and her female passenger were both transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are in attendance to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Police do not believe the incident was an intentional act. A crime scene was established and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage or any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

● The scene at Knox. Photo: ABC.

Crime Watch Secret commissions ■ Detectives from Taskforce Hawk arrested five men and executed six search warrants as part of an investigation into secret commissions, fraud and drug trafficking. With the assistance of the Cybercrime Squad, VIPER Taskforce and Mornington Peninsula and Latrobe Valley Crime Investigation Units, six search warrants were executed at an office on Elizabeth St in the CBD, as well as residential addresses in Chirnside Park, Westbury, Gisborne, Powelltown and Somerville. Five men were arrested, including: ■ A 36-year-old from Chirnside Park ■ A 46-year-old from Westbury ■ A 27-year-old from Gisborne ■ A 56-year-old from Powelltown ■ A 37-year-old from Somerville. The Chirnside Park man has been charged with possess Schedule 4 drug. The Westbury man was charged with failing to store a longarm firearm and failing to store ammunition as required by the Firearms Act 1996. The remaining three were released pending further enquiries. The investigation in relation to the alleged secret commissions remains ongoing. Four CFMEU registered vehicles were seized, alongside 10 mobile phones, a Schedule 4 poison.

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Page 40 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026

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DRIVER LEAVES PATH OF DESTRUCTION ARIES (March 21 - April 20) Lucky Colour: Ruby Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 9-1-5-3 Lotto Numbers: 10-19-22-23-37-40 Some financial luck is indicated during this period. Partnership matters should prosper, whether in business or personal relationships. Romance is also highlighted, making this an ideal time to strengthen an existing relationship or welcome a new connection. TAURUS (April 21 - May 20) Lucky Colour: Violet Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 5-1-3-9 Lotto Numbers: 4-5-19-20-26-39 Career plans may seem a little frustrating at first, but the results you have been waiting for should soon become evident. Your charm and good humour will open doors, while love is strongly favoured throughout this period. GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 7-3-4-1 Lotto Numbers: 6-13-28-34-37-42 Business and property dealings are well supported and should produce favourable outcomes. Surprise visitors or unexpected events may interrupt your routine, but they could also bring exciting opportunities. Do not let the negativity of others affect your confidence. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Lucky Colour: Gold Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3-1-3-6 Lotto Numbers: 5-17-20-26-33-43 This should be a rewarding and enjoyable period. Romance is highlighted, with the possibility of a meaningful connection or a happy interlude. Trusted friends and loved ones will be ready to offer support whenever you need it. LEO (July 23 - August 22) Lucky Colour: Purple Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 7-3-9-1 Lotto Numbers: 10-16-29-30-34-37 Avoid allowing fixed opinions about someone to prevent you from exploring new possibilities in your relationships. You cannot please everyone all the time, so focus on what truly makes you happy and fulfilled. VIRGO (August 23 - September 23) Lucky Colour: Opaque Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2-3-4-8 Lotto Numbers: 15-29-31-32-37-44 Be cautious in the company of people you do not know well. Any secretive or questionable situations are likely to come to light, so ensure your actions remain above reproach. Honesty and integrity will protect your reputation. LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Lucky Colour: Grey Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 4-3-1-5 Lotto Numbers: 6-11-13-23-41-43 You may need to make an important decision regarding a romantic situation, as allowing matters to continue unchanged may no longer be beneficial. Unexpected help or advice could arrive just when you need it most. SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Lucky Colour: Olive Green Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 9-1-4-3 Lotto Numbers: 9-13-20-22-29-34 Once relationship matters have been resolved, it will be time to focus on your future goals and business interests. Positive changes are approaching, and careful planning now will help you make the most of new opportunities. SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20) Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3-2-5-3 Lotto Numbers: 8-15-20-25-31-35 Changes may be needed within your home or family life. Compromise will be important with both loved ones and work colleagues. A flexible approach will help maintain harmony and strengthen important relationships. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19) Lucky Colour: Black Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 3-5-6-1 Lotto Numbers: 10-16-21-22-28-35 This is not the best time to force your point of view. Allow partners and loved ones time to think before making major decisions. Assistance from relatives or someone living at a distance could help you resolve an ongoing problem. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19) Lucky Colour: Cream Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5-4-6-3 Lotto Numbers: 8-19-26-35-36-40 You may need to be a little more assertive if you want others to recognise your talents and abilities. Significant changes are approaching in your workplace or business, creating opportunities for growth and advancement. PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Lucky Colour: Burgundy Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 9-8-3-6 Lotto Numbers: 8-14-16-29-31-38 This is a favourable period for relationships and long-term commitments. Many may find themselves making promises without fully considering the consequences, so think carefully before committing. Property and real estate matters continue to improve, making this an encouraging time to prepare for future opportunities.

■ Police have charged an alleged drunk driver who left a path of destruction behind that lead to his arrest on Monday afternoon (Aug. 24). The 46-year-old man drew the attention of patrolling police after he crashed into a shopping centre welcome sign in Werribee about 3.15pm. The Hoppers Crossing man allegedly then mounted the footpath and sped through a bus stop. Police indicated for the man to pull over but he turned onto Derrimut Rd where he collected a street sign and drove off. Following a 500m trail of downed street signs, members ended up in Dunk Ct however the man and his Holden Commo dore were nowhere in sight. Suddenly a man appeared on the street riding an electric scooter and the keen-eyed police officer was able to identify him as the alleged driver. He was arrested without incident and taken to Werribee Police Station to be breathalysed, re turning an alleged reading of .149. Police charged the man with a range of offences including, reckless conduct endanger serious injury, failing to stop after a collision, failing to stop on police direction, dangerous driving whilst pursued by police, learner driver drive unaccompanied and driving under the influence of alcohol. He was bailed to appear in Wyndham Magistrates’ Court on October 21.

■ More than 50 grams of amphetamine, methylamphetamine and ketamine valued at approximately $12,000. ■ Several cartons of illicit tobacco, valued at more than $2000. ■ A small quantity of prescription medication, steroids and Viagra and ■ $4800 in cash. During the execution of the warrant, police will allege the man threw a bag of drugs onto the garage roof, which was witnessed by police. ■ A 22-year- old Traralgon man was charged with possess a drug of dependence. ■ A 32-year- old Traralgon woman was charged with: ■ traffick/possess a commercial quantity of GHB ■ traffick/possess a commercial quantity of amphetamine ■ deal property suspected proceeds of crime ■ possess illicit tobacco ■ possess prescription medication without authorisation The man was bailed to appear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on February 2. The woman was remanded to appear at Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on August 25.

Traralgon drug bust

Fatality arrest

■ Police uncovered over $30,000 worth of drugs and cash in Traralgon on Monday (Aug. 24). Officers from Traralgon Police and Morwell Divisional Response Unit executed a search warrant at a property in Lawrence Grove about 9.30am. Inside the property, officers allegedly located and seized: ■ G a m m a hydroxybutyrate (GHB), valued at approximately $12,000.

75 Years Ago From Our Files ● 1951

■ A man has been arrested following an alleged fatal hitrun collision in Canadian last week. It is alleged a green Ford Fiesta struck a 51-year-old Canadian man on Butt St just after midnight on Monday, August 17. The man died at the scene. The Ford, which was allegedly not displaying registration plates, was located nearby on Elsworth St. A 38-year- old Ballarat East man presented at a po-

lice station on Monday afternoon (Aug. 24). He was interviewed by Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives and charged with several offences including culpable driving, dangerous driving causing death, driving whilst disqualified, failing to stop and failing to render assistance. He was remanded to appear before Ballarat Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Aug. 25)

Shops set alight ■ Offenders rammed a convenience store in St Albans and a milk bar in Kings Park causing significant structural damage to both shop fronts before they were set alight. In the first incident a vehicle was seen reversing into the Willaton St convenience store just after 2am Tuesday (Aug. 25). The store was set alight and sustained smoke and fire damage. Witnesses re ported seeing two vehicles driving in convoy attend the scene. About 10 minutes later, it is believed the same offenders, reversed a black Toyota Kluger into a milk bar on Maplewood Drive in Kings Park causing significant damage. Once inside the store an accelerant was used to douse the area before it was set alight. Police have been told there was an explosion of flames before the fire petered out. The damaged vehicle, which was bearing stolen plates, and was stolen from Kings Park on Sunday was abandoned at the scene. The offenders are believed to have fled the scene in a second vehicle de scribed as a light coloured 4WD. Detectives from Brimbank Crime Investigation Unit will

investigate the circumstances surrounding the incidents and whether they’re linked to any other recent fires.

Hit-run, follow ■ Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged three men following a hitrun collision and extended follow in Melbourne’s southeast on Monday (Aug. 24). Emergency services were called to a three-vehicle collision on Beach Rd in Black Rock about 8.50am. It is alleged a Toyota 86, which was stolen in St Kilda on Monday, fled the scene before being dumped on Bluff Road a short time later. Police allegedly located and seized an imitation firearm and stolen clothes inside the vehicle. A short time later, police spotted a stolen Subaru WRX nearby. Officers deployed stopsticks and the vehicle was followed before it was dumped at a shopping centre on Nepean Hwy in Cheltenham. Two men were arrested nearby. A third man is alleged to have stolen clothing from a shop inside in an attempt to avoid apprehension before he too was arrested. A 28-year- old Werribee man was charged with dangerous driving whilst pursed by police, theft of motor vehicle, drink driving, theft and bail offences. A 31-year- old Toorak man was charged with theft of motor vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident, drink driving, prohibited person possess imitation firearm and bail offences. A 21-year- old Tecoma man was charged with theft of motor vehicle and commit indictable offence whilst on bail.

● The Argus. Aug. 25, 1951.

Potato blackmarket ■ Nineteen railway trucks loaded with potatoes consigned to New South Wales have been seized by the Victorian Potato Board in Melbourne goods yards. And the board has asked the railways to divert all similar shipments of Victorian potatoes to its depots. Mr. J. B. Clarkson, board secretary, last night refused to discuss the board's action, but the Australian Primary Producers' Union applauded the seizure as action to stamp out interstate blackmarketing.

4 steps to freedom ■ ONE: Yesterday's three escapees first picked this lock on the iron grill inside Carlton watchhouse. That let them out of the inner skin of their prison. They worked fast. The Black Maria came to take them to Pentridge gaol at 2.05p.m.- and they were last seen only 20 minutes before that. TWO: A window to the world-but it was barred. They wrenched a bar loose. They bent it to make room for a man's body - going out. A window to the worldbut it was arred. They wrenched a bar loose. They bent it to make room for a man's body - going out. THREE: For two men it was easy. One could hold the win- dow up while the others went over the sill. But who would hold it up for the third man? They propped the window with blankets. There was plenty of room ... For two men it was easy. One could hold the window up while the others went over the sill. But who would hold it up for the third man? They propped the window with blankets. There was plenty of room ... FOUR: They were in the back yard of the watchhouse. Nothing between them and the open except a tin fence. Tin is noisy. They had to climb quietly. No one heard. They set off along the lane-but which way? They were in the back yard of the watchhouse. Nothing between them and the open except a tin fence. Tin is noisy. They had to climb quietly. No one heard. They set off along the lane-but which way?

RSL service plates ■ The Returned Serviccmen's League has asked the Melbourne City Council to give "absolute piefeience" to ex-servicemen in allocating the 250 additional taxi licences soon.

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026 - Page 41

What’s On Goodnight Melbourne

Whats’s ON Opera Australia ■ Opera Australia has announced that its 2027 Melbourne season will return to full repertory programming in the newly refurbished Ian Potter State Theatre at Arts Centre Melbourne. OA’s Director of Planning and Programming, Ruth Thomas said: “We’re really excited to be back in the Ian Potter State Theatre for our 2027 season – presenting a program we feel is a great balance of Australian and international productions. “It’s the first season where we’ve had the benefit of the international connections and experience of our Music Director Andrea Battistoni and our incoming Director of Opera Amy Lane, ahead of her official start in September.” The pinnacle of the season will be the exclusive-to -Melbourne Wagnerian event of the year: the world premiere of a new production of Tannhäuser by celebrated opera director Sir David McVicar and conducted by OA’s Music Director Andrea Battistoni. Also new to Melbourne is Ann Yee’s staging of Turandot, co-produced by the Opera Conference; Scottish Opera’s take on The Magic Flute directed by Sir Thomas Allen; and Leah Purcell’s operatic adaptation of Henry Lawson’s short story The Drover’s Wife, composed by George Palmer, co-commissioned with QPAC and co-produced with QPAC and Oombarra Productions. In concert, the Opera Australia Chorus will appear in full force joined by Orchestra Victoria and led by Maestro Battistoni for a Melbourne exclusive, one night only, electrifying performance of the famous Beethoven Symphony No.9, commemorating 200 years since the composer’s death. The season features a striking mix of singers, combining some of opera’s most exciting new talent with commanding experience from across Australia and beyond. OA Music Director Andrea Battistoni believes that every artistic choice for the season has been made to strengthen Opera Australia's future and foster its reputation of international excellence. “This season offers a diverse range of operatic work, not just for the sake of variety, but to offer to our audiences the sheer delight of immersing in different styles, languages and experiences. “From laughter to heartbreak, bel canto to verismo, this season offers audiences an extraordinary musical journey,” said Battistoni. Subscriptions to the 2027 season start with packages of just two or more performances, giving subscribers first access to the best seats in the house, ticket discounts and the opportunity to win exclusive behind-the-scenes access throughout the year. Bookings: Opera Australia subscriptions available now. Prices start at $126 for two operas. Single tickets on sale from September 29 Box Office: 9685 3700 opera.org.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Port Fairy line-up ■ The 50th Port Fairy Folk Festival lineup (so far): Alice Howe & Freebo (USA), Alosa (CAT/ESP), Amaidí, The Burning Hell (CAN), Candice Lorrae, Daoirí Farrell (IRE), Detta Kenzie, Dlù (SCO), Eleanor McEvoy (IRE), Grace Petrie (ENG), The Haar (IRE/ENG), Holly Munro (IRE), John Butler, Jon Cleary and The Absolute Monster Gentlemen (ENG/USA), Joshua Burnside (IRE), Kate Rusby (ENG), Kutcha Edwards, Kyarna, Laura Urteaga and Benjamín Aedo (CAT/ ESP), Luka Bloom (IRE), Magpie Diaries, Mia Dyson, Mick Thomas' Roving Commission, The Milk Carton Kids (USA), Minor Gold, Ngulmiya feat. Pau Figueres (AUS/CAT), Ordinary Elephant (USA), Sam Kelly (ENG), The Settlement, Sixpence None The Richer (USA), Skerryvore (SCO), Steph Strings, Sue Ray, Tim Easton (USA), Tuck Shop Ladies, Ukulele Death Squad, The Waifs, We Mavericks. Port Fairy Folk Festival takes place over the Victorian Labour Day long weekend, March 5-8. Final Tickets on sale now.

Contributed

THE MAGIC SCEPTRE

■ Track Youth Theatre presents The Magic Sceptre from August 28-29 at the Clayton Community Centre. With script and music by Ed Bailey and directed by Sophie Jevons, The Magic Sceptre tells of all being well in Herenway, as while the Queen holds the Magic Sceptre, everyone from princesses to peasants are happy. But this changes when an evil wizard sweeps into town and nicks the Sceptre. A small group of palace servants arm themselves with magic knowledge and set off to recover the Sceptre, but a wizard chase can be dangerous ... Will the heroes return triumphant and maybe, just maybe, will a peasant ever be allowed to marry a princess? This 'pun-packed' original musical for all ages will be performed by talented youngsters aged 9-16. Performance Details: August 28 at 7pm; August 29 at 2pm and 7pm Venue: Clayton Community Centre, 9-15 Cooke St, Clayton Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1610682

Cheryl Threadgold

Ballad of Dan O’Malley ■ Paul Mitchell’s The Ballad of Dan O’Malley: A Football Tragedy is based on the actual events surrounding the Melbourne Demons tanking scandal. In 2009, allegations erupted that the Demons intentionally lost matches to secure top draft picks for the club. The club was eventually hit with sanctions and a hefty penalty for bringing the game into disrepute. Coach Dean Bailey took the fall and was banned for the first 16 rounds of the 2013 season. Appointed coach of the Central Leopards, Dan O’Malley (Justin Bell) dreams big and pledges his best. O’Malley fires up his young players, such as promising forward Chad (Julian Weeks). The team’s ragtag form starts to turn around, from wooden spooners to winners. What O’Malley doesn’t know is that the club is at its lowest point financially. Despite O’Malley’s success in turning around the Leopard’s fortunes, he comes under pressure from the club’s crooked administrator, Simon (Gregory Caine), to adopt some dodgy methods to secure the team’s future draft picks. Slow pacing on opening night will hopefully pick up as the season progresses. Great casting makes this paper-thin retelling of the Demon’s tragic saga work. Bell is terrific as the much-put-upon O’Malley, trying his utmost for his players but caught in a web of politics and powerful interests. Weeks is also excellent as the wide-eyed young player Chad who begins to realise that the love of the game means nothing to those in charge of it.

● Director Sophie Jevons and cast rehearse The Magic Sceptre. Photo: Rosie Inverarity. As villains, Nick Mitchell’s “whatever-ittakes” Barclay and Caine’s slimy Simon do their best to undermine O’Malley’s success. Caught in the maelstrom of backroom secrets and dealmaking, O’Malley makes a tragic decision to keep his job. Performed at The Explosives Factory, Theatre Works, St Kilda, directed by Theresa Borg.

Review by Kathryn Keeble

Burn The Floor ■ More performances have been released for the return of Burn the Floor with Luminous at the Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne from September 11-19. This 'spectacular collision of Ballroom, Latin and Contemporary dance' will feature champion dancers selected from around the world, with live musicians and singers. At the helm is Jason Gilkison, the creative force who has defined Burn The Floor's signature spirit of rebellion for decades. As Creative Director and Choreographer of Strictly Come Dancing – Jason has spent years reimagining ballroom for modern audiences. Now, he brings that same vision to the stage. Performance dates and times: September 11, 12, 13, 17, 19 at 7pm; September 12, 18, 19 at 2pm Venue: The Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne Duration: 1hr. 30 mins. Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Golden Hour ■ Gippsland Art Gallery presents The Golden Hour: Australian Impressionism – Origins, Icons & Echoes in March 2027, bringing together some of the most celebrated works and stories from the formative decades of Australian landscape painting.

● Nick Mitchell, Justin Bell and Julian Weeks in The Ballad of Dan O'Malley. Photo: Gavin D Andrew.

■ Backpack Bed for Homeless will launch GoodNight Melbourne on Thursday (Aug. 7) at 10 am at Bolton Clarke, Port Melbourne, to fight back and keep rough sleepers alive. Research shows that in one night in inner city Melbourne, over 300 people will sleep on the streets, and 1022 Victorians sleep rough on any given night. Dubbed the ‘survival gap’, seven frontline homeless agencies have joined with Backpack Bed for Homeless for the launch, which was previously successfully rolled out in Tasmania. Every donation from the public to GoodNight Melbourne provides emergency shelter to local homeless agencies to support rough sleepers in the form of a Backpack Bed and a Fire Retardant Sleeping Bag. “People are so desperate and feel there is no hope. They end up losing dignity and for some, their lives. Nobody should ever feel as though there is no way out. Hypothermia, frostbite and trench foot are deadly for rough sleepers in Melbourne,” says Tony Clark, Founder and CEO of Backpack Bed for Homeless. The program provides 302 Backpack Beds and Fire-Retardant Sleeping Bags for distribution across inner Melbourne. Anglicare Victoria, Bolton Clarke Homeless Persons Program, cohealth Innerspace, cohealth Central City Melbourne, Community Support Frankston, Holy Fools and VincentCare - Ozanam Community Centre are all leading the way for GoodNight Melbourne. The Backpack Bed is an immediate human rights, life-saving solution that critically bridges the gap until longerterm housing is accessed. The Backpack Bed is a 2.9kg ergonomic backpack that holds 135L of belongings and converts within seconds into an emergency Shelter. Designed for harsh all-weather conditions, the system is a fire-retardant, water-proof, 3-window shelter with built-in mattress. When matched with a Fire Retardant Sleeping Bag, dignity and survival becomes reality. Founded by CEO Tony Clark, Backpack Bed for Homeless is an Australian Human Rights Award-winning national charity. GoodNight Melbourne will launch at Bolton Clarke, Port Melbourne on Thursday (Aug. 27) at 10am. For more information or to donate, visit GoodNightMelbourne.org

Cheryl Threadgold

The Green Bus ■ The City Gallery is celebrating the extraordinary career of photographer Andrew Chapman with The Green Bus, a major exhibition spanning five decades of images that capture the people, places and moments that have shaped Melbourne since 1971. For more than half a century, Andrew Chapman has observed Melbourne with patience, curiosity and an unwavering commitment to documenting the life of the city. The Green Bus brings together 55 photographs from across 55 years, revealing an evolving portrait of Melbourne through the lens of one of Australia’s most respected documentary photographers. The exhibition’s title refers to the green buses that once travelled from Elsternwick into the city – the route that carried a young Chapman into Melbourne as he began exploring the streets with his camera. Those early journeys sparked a lifelong fascination with the city, one that has resulted in one of Australia’s most significant photographic archives documenting urban life. says: “Spending nearly a lifetime behind my cameras, some of these long distant images I have taken I can almost still touch, whilst others are cloudier than a bowl of soup. For today we inhabit a post truth society where much is not quite as it seems, but I’d like to believe that what I have witnessed bears honest testimony to the past.” City Gallery, Melbourne Town Hall from September 3. Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5pm. Entry is free.

Page 42 - ThepLocal Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026

Observations Tipping Out of Trouble

● Marten Scheffer Photo: Annabel Oosteweeghel ■ It's easy to get dispirited when most of the headlines we see in our newspapers and on our televisions are about all the major problems the world is facing, but scientist and author Martin Scheffer says we can do something about it. He maintains that world crises, wealth inequality, declining trust and climate change are not separate problems, but signs that society is nearing a tipping point. But before you stop reading in despair, Scheffer also says that humanity has transformed before, and can do so again. In his new book Tipping Out of Trouble, Scheffer tackles the difficult question of how societies can escape from seemingly inescapable problems. Examining history, psychology, economics and science, Scheffer shows how societies have consistently reinvented themselves. He explains that extreme concentrations of power and wealth are distorting democracies and preventing us acting on the challenges that matter most. So what does he suggest we do about it? Scheffer claims that societies can break out of destructive patterns and embrace new ways of thinking and living. His book is one of possibility, and he says that while the future may be uncertain, collapse is not predetermined. Scheffer offers a roadmap for how humanity might ‘tip’ toward a more sustainable, equitable and resilient future. And that’s a piece of good news we can all embrace. Tipping Out of Trouble by Marten Scheffer is published by Cambridge University Press and available online and in bookstores.

Julie Houghton

Auditions ■ Peridot Theatre: Calendar Girls (by Tim Firth) August 29 at 1pm, August 31 at 5pm, September 1 at 5pm at Killester College, 433 Springvale Rd., Springvale. Director: Steve McPhail. Audition enquiries: 0400 976 046 after 3.30pm weekdays or weekends. ■ Brighton Theatre Company: A Simple Act of Kindness (by Ross Mueller) August 30 at 2pm, August 31 at 7pm at Brighton Theatre, Carpenter St., Brighton. Director: Blake Stringer. Audition enquiries: BlakeStringer@ hotmail.com ■ The Basin Theatre Group: The Railway Children (Adapted by Jason Triggs based on the novel by Edith Nesbit) August 31 at 7pm, September 5 at 10am at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Jason Triggs. Audition bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1606759 ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Breaking Down All the Walls (Written and Directed by Nicholas Bufalo) September 5 afternoon, September 8 evening. Venue tba. Audition enquiries: email Breakingdownallthewalls@ gmail.com ■ Essendon Theatre Company: Drinking Habits 2 (by Tom Smith) September 12 at 10.00am at the Bradshaw St. Community Theatre, 9 Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Bethany Simmons. Submit an audition form to arrange an audition time via the website or forms.gle/HZ56b3d2ot6VoKD68

Tales from Brothers Grimm ■ Shake and Stir Theatre Company presents Grimm, Tales from the Brothers Grimm, from August 25 to September 12 at the Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne. Audiences are invited into a world where fairy tales are reimagined with “profound intensity and irreverent glee”. But there is a warning that these bedtime stories might cause nightmares. Within the walls of an abandoned drinking house in the deep dark forest, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood and many others emerge from the thicket to share the truth behind their stories – warts and all. Consequently, surprises and never-before-told truths boil and bubble seductively to the surface ... This bold adaptation of tales from the Brothers Grimm is adapted by Nelle Lee, directed by Daniel Evans with costumes designed by Paul McCann. Bedtime stories will never be the same again. Performance Season: August 25 - September 12 Venue: Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

The Sacrifice of Farinelli ■ Having its Australian premiere, the play The Sacrifice of Farinelli is a bold undertaking by Subverse Theatre which asks the question “What price the pursuit of perfection?” Set in the 18th century, two Italian brothers who live for music are Riccardo and Carlo Broschi. Riccardo is a composer while Carlo, a singer with a heavenly falsetto voice, becomes the famous castrato Farinelli. Something of a muse to both, Teresa, destined to never be a lover of Carlo’s, eventually finds love with his brother Ricardo. The twists and turns of this romantic triangle play out in dramatic fashion in the courts of Italy. Written by Stuart Bruce, the engaging original script is based on historical figures. In the first half the characters, their milieu and relationship dynamics and tensions are successfully established. Unfortunately the second half is less successful, lacking the energy and vigour of the first half as it struggles under the weight of tying up loose ends of the plot. This is no fault of an excellent cast of 10. Uniformly strong in their performances, four require special mention: Jesse Vasiliadis (playing Ricardo), Elsa Caruso (Teresa), Luca Mckenzie (Carlo/Farinelli) and Evangelos Arabatzis (Maestro Porpora). This quartet act with gusto and sensitivity to bring their characters to life. Not just the playwright, Bruce also directs, ably assisted by two assistant directors Carlotta Migliolo and Lily Infantino. Best described as a form of stylised naturalism with gothic touches, the production team do a great job of realising the script’s baroque sensibility.

Cheryl Threadgold

Free newspaper ■ Every week, February-December, we will email you a free digital copy of the Observer. www.FreePaper.com.au

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● Yvonne Martin in The Sacrifice of Farinelli Photo: Barbara Vood

● Photo by Joel Devereux Apart from several poor lighting choices, the staging works well in the old bluestone church with splendid costumes, dance and music - recordings of Vivaldi, Bach and Handel are complemented with live and electronic music - all combining to create a sumptuous atmosphere of decadence. While it does strike the occasional false note, The Sacrifice of Farinelli is, nevertheless, to be applauded for its striking ambitious vision and passionate intensity. Venue: Bluestone Church Arts Space: 8A Hyde St, Footscray Dates and times: Until August 29 at 7.30pm Duration: 2.5 hours Tickets: $42 Full, $35 Concession, and $30 Preview Bookings: events.humanitix.com/sacrifice-of-farinelli?c=web

Review by Peter Murphy

Crimes of the Heart ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents the tragicomedy Crimes of the Heart from September 4-19 at 36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna. Written by Beth Henley and directed by James Antonas, Crimes of the Heart is described as 'laughter-laced with heartache in the Deep South.' In Hazlehurst, Mississippi, the three eccentric Magrath sisters reunite under one roof: Babe has just shot her husband, Meg has fled Hollywood, and Lenny is celebrating her birthday with a cookie. What follows is a darkly funny and deeply human story of shared trauma, fierce love, and awkward healing. Crimes of the Heart premiered in 1979 and quickly became a classic of American theatre, winning the 1981 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Performance Details: Sept. 4, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19 at 8pm; Weekend Matinees at 2pm: Sept 5, 6, 12, 13. Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Bookings: htc.org.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Wyndham play reading ■ While Wyndham Theatre Company awaits completion of essential maintenance works at their theatre, they will be hosting play readings and theatre workshops. These sessions are regarded as a relaxed and enjoyable way to stay connected, meet other members, develop new skills and experience the creative side of community theatre. All are welcome to attend, whether a long-time member, new to Wyndham Theatre Company, or simply curious about getting involved. No previous experience is needed, and all are welcome to take part, listen, or enjoy the atmosphere. The workshops will be led by Alaine Beek of Essence Theatre Productions The first workshop will be held on Thursday, September 3 at 7.30pm and the first playreading will be the comedy Allo Allo on Monday, September 21 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, all events at the Crossroads Foyer, Werribee Uniting Church, Corner Duncans Rd and Synott St, Werribee. In October, the workshop will be held on Monday, October 5 from 7.30-9.30pm and the play reading on Monday, October 19 at 7.30pm. November's workshop will be held on November 9 at 7.30pm and the playreading on Monday November 23 at 7.30pm. To register interest in attending, reply to the Wyndham Theatre Company website wyndhamtheatrecompany.org.au/ Numbers are limited.

Local Theatre Shows ■ The 1812 Theatre: Treasure Island (by Ken Ludwig) Until August 29 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Erin O’Hare. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au ■ 24th South Gippsland One Act Play Festival (FAMDA – Foster Arts Music and Drama Association) August 29-30 Details and tickets: vdl.org.au/vdlevent/24th-south-gippsland-one-actplay-festival/ ■ Brighton Theatre Company: The Trouble with Harry (by Lachlan Philpott) Until August 29 at the Bayside Arts and Cultural Centre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Dexter Bourke. Bookings: 0493 069 479 brightontheatre.com.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Two (by Jim Cartwright) Until August 29 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Natasha Boyd. Bookings: stagtheatre.org ■ Ballarat National Theatre: You Can’t Tell Anyone (by Joanna Richards) Until August 23 23 at the Ballarat Mechanics’ Institute, 117 – 119 Sturt St., Ballarat. Director: Ruby Abbott. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/bnt-youcant-tell-anyone ■ Malvern Theatre Company: When the Rain Stops Falling (by Andrew Bovell) Until September 5 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Road, Malvern East. Director: Peter Newling. Bookings: malvern theatre.com.au ■ Aspect Theatre: Twelfth Night (by William Shakespeare) Until August 29 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Bookings: aspecttheatre. org.au ■ Track Youth Theatre: The Magic Sceptre (Script and Music by Ed Bailey) August 28 at 7pm; August 29 at 2pm and 7pm at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Sophie Jevons. Bookings: Trybooking. trackyouth theatre.org.au ■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Boeing Boeing (by Marc Camoletti) August 28 – September 12 at the Warrandyte Mechanics Institute, Yarra St., Warrandyte. Directors: Tegan DeClark and Taryn Johns, Bookings: trybooking.com/au/event/1606177 ■ Powderkeg Players: Closer (by Patrick Marber) September 4 – 19 at St Albans Senior Citizens Centre, 171 William St., St Albans. Director: Del Jordan. trybooking.com/DNOFM ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Crimes of the Heart (by Beth Henley) September 4 – 19 at 35 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: James Antonas. Bookings: htc.org.au ■ Eltham Little Theatre: Dancing At Lughnasa (by Brian Friel) September 4 – 19 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Sean McKenna. Bookings: elthamlittle theatre.org.au/ ■ Phoenix Theatre Company: Alanis Morissetti’s Jagged Little Pill. September 4 – 12 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Bookings: phoenixtheatrecompany.org ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (by Jeffrey Lane). September 10 – 26 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castela St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com ■ Essendon Theatre Company: Top Girls (Caryl Churchill) September 10 – 19 at the Bradshaw Street Community Theatre, Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Darby Turnbull. Bookings: essendontheatrecompany.com.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Holding the Man (by Tommy Murphy based on the novel by Timothy Conigrave), September 9-26 at 2 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Bruce Akers. Bookings: tickets@wlt.org.au ■ NOVA Music Theatre: Hello, Dolly! September 11-20 at The Round, Nunawading. Bookings: theround.com. au/HelloDolly

Cheryl Threadgold

New look for teams ■ Hoyts has launched revamped uniforms, featuring red and black polos, for its cinema teams. The uniforms were created to support the diverse tasks performed by crew members across every role; from food and beverage service at the Candy Bar to guest check-in and post-film cinema cleaning.

The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026 - Page 43

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BREAK OF DAY

■ Revulsion and sympathy are counterpointed in this eloquently related tale of the universal human condition in Steve Rodger's play, Break of Day. Compromised by her adolescent pregnancy, single mother, Pamela (Kat Stewart), packs goods in a warehouse. An old school friend, Sanjeeva (Chum Ehelepola) is now her supervisor. The burdensome arrival of her geriatric and demanding father, Pop (Richard Piper) undermines any hope that Pam's daughter, Rae (Sherry-Lee Watson) will finish her school assignment on time. Additionally, Rae's boyfriend, Jedediah, (Theo Clarke) is preparing for his audition which will allow him to leave the work he has cleaning the factory. The work is visceral at times. The traumatic description of childbirth is negated by the love Pam has for Rae. Theo's clearing of a toilet blockage by hand is juxtaposed with his recitation of Caliban's soliloquy from The Tempest. The base of life is a primordial ooze. Rae's dissertation on Nabokov's 'Lolita' finds an immediate resonance in Pop's less than desirable past. Though roundly condemned, Pop becomes a figure of sympathy at the end of the play. Past choices and current reality clash. Watson and Clarke capture the exuberance and hopefulness of youth. Piper finds the complexity of Pop's character where insistence meets the guilt and shame. Ehelepola's scene uploading his character's vocal track is comedy gold but it is Stewart finding the simple frustration of her situation and projecting her hopes and dreams onto Rae where we see just how easily individuals are caught and compromised by unwise choices. Sarah Goodes direction and use of a revolving set (Anna Cordingley) facilitates an energetic momentum. The two tiered factory overlooking the simple, crowded household is telling. Paul Jackson's lighting allows alleys and spots to be purposefully utilised and the faint echo of a

● Kat Stewart (Pamela) and Sherry-Lee Watson (Rae) in Break of Day. Photo: Pia Johnson of a police siren in Jethro Woodward's sound scape hints at the consequences about to ensue at the end of the play. This work resonates on so many levels speaking of life's pathos and the constraints eroding the hopes and desires of many struggling to make ends meet. A must see. Until August 29 The Malthouse

Review by David McLean

Closer ■ Powderkeg Players present the Oliver award-winning drama Closer by Patrick Marber from September 4-19 at the St Albans Senior Citizens Centre. Directed by Del Jordan, Closer follows the lives of out-of-towner Alice, photographer Anna, obituary writer Dan and dermatologist Larry over several years as they meet, bond, separate and move on. The modern classic is described as "a provocative, witty and emo-

tionally devastating play that views love and sex like politics: it's not what you say that matters, still less what you mean, but what you do. “It is a brilliant exploration of the brutal anatomy of modern ro mance, and the painful truths we hide from those we love." Powderkeg Players is a St Albans community theatre company whose motto is “theatre that lights a fuse”. Del Jordan says: "This production will set the scene with bright projections that will immerse audiences in each setting. “To help set the mood, this production will also be infusing a memorable 90s trip-hop soundtrack, featuring artists such as Portishead and Massive Attack, alongside original jazz-inspired music made specifically for the show." Content warning: this production contains coarse language and mature themes, including scenes of a sexual nature. Performance Details: September 4-19 Times: Fri./Sat. evenings at 8pm, matinees Sun September 13, and Sat September 19 at 2pm. Q and A with cast September 11. Running time: Approx. 2 hrs, including a 20 minute interval Venue: St Albans Senior Citizens Centre, 171 William St, St Albans Tickets: $27 full price / $22 concession Bookings: powderkegplayers. com/shows/

Cheryl Threadgold

Vale Johnny Young

● Tully Jones (Anna), Wayne Gleeson (Larry), Jordyn Grubisic (Alice) and James Hammond (Dan) rehearse Closer.

■ Australian entertainment legend and Young Talent Time host Johnny Young died late last week, aged 79. Young’s family said the beloved television and music industry figure died following a short illness with pancreatic cancer. Young was host of Young Talent Time, which launched the careers of some of Australia’s best-known entertainers. He wrote hit songs including The Real Thing and Smiley. He was recognised with inductions into both the TV Week Logies Hall of Fame and the ARIA Hall of Fame. Young leaves behind his wife Marisha, sister Cornelia, daughters Anna and Fleur, son Craig (dec.), seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Rourke’s Reviews relationship with fellow stuI Want dent Phillip (Earl Cave) is rejected, and as Lidia bruises Your Sex and bleeds, she finds writing

■ (MA). 90 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas August 27. Gregg Araki makes a return to the big screen after a decade with I Want Your Sex, a superficially provocative sex comedy that is actually surprisingly good-natured, a far cry from the director’s earlier work. Olivia Wilde (whose wonderful film where she both stars and directs, The Invite, is still playing in cinemas) stars as Erika Tracy, a deliberately pretentious experimental artist who hires her latest assistant, Elliot (Cooper Hoffman, son of Phillip Seymour Hoffman). The two begin a consensually sadomachochistac relationship, one that inspires each one in specific ways. It is a relationship that will lead to various complications. Araki delivered harsher films at the start of his career, including The Living End (1992) and The Doom Generation (1995), as well as the excellent Mysterious Skin (2004). Despite its explicit nature, this is breezy fun, helped by strong performances by Wilde, Hoffman and Chase Sui Wonders (Bodies Bodies Bodies, Past Lives, The Studio TV series). Singer Charlie XCX, who is turning up in a number of movies at the moment, delivers yet another underwhelming turn, with her character highly reminiscent of Henry Winkler’s fiancee in the 1982 comedy, Nightshift. RATING - ***

The Chronology of Water ■ (R). 128 minutes. Now showing in selected cinemas. After almost eight years of tirelessly trying to get it developed and financed, actor Kristen Stewart (best known for the hugely profitable Twilight franchise) has finally managed to get her passion project, an adaptation of Lidia Yuknavitch’s brutal 2011 memoir, made, and it is an extraordinary piece of art, even more so as it is her feature directorial debut. Imogen Poots, in a career best performance, fully inhabits Lidia as an adult, but the film is set mainly between 1980 and 1998. As a toddler, Lidia experienced a close-form harshness from her father Mike (Michael Epp), who is sexually abusing her older sister Claudia (Marlena Sniega). It is an abuse that will come Lidia’s way as she approaches her teen years. Lidia’s mother, Dorothy (Susannah Flood) is an alcoholic, a shield against her husband’s behaviour. As soon as she is old enough, Claudia escapes her horrific home life. Lidia (now played by Poots) escapes her horrors by embracing swimming, becoming a potential contender that leads to a college scholarship. Lidia has been damaged so much as a person and as a woman that she finds it hard to embrace any kind of positivity and love, drowning herself in drugs, alcohol and sex. Even the chance at a loving

a true path to expressing rage, as well as finding peace, understanding and self-worth. I have to say straight away, this film will not be for everyone. It is incredibly raw, personal and confronting. Stewart, who has also supplied the screenplay, brilliantly encapsulates Lidia’s pain, oppression and, due to her abuse, inability to receive love. The startling imagery of menstrual bleeding is a powerful metaphor for Lidia’s rage, but also a vulnerability that is continually abused. The blend of 16mm visuals, immersive sound design and impressionistic editing creates a frame of mind that is overwhelming. The opening thirty minutes is so suffocating and crushing that I initially felt Stewart was throwing everything at the audience too much too quickly, but once I realised what she was aiming for, it all becomes perfectly clear. I would compare it to the first act of Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket (1987), where characters are beaten physically and mentally so fully, that what follows to these people seems understandable. Stewart uses water colours and depth lines beautifully. Performances are outstanding across the board. Poots ( 28 Weeks Later, Green Room, Solitary Man, Filth, Frank & Lola, Black Christmas, The Father), for some reason, remains a perennially underrated actor, so hopefully her naked, fearless performance here shows to the world what a talented person she is. The role is incredibly revealing, and one can’t see any other actor inhabiting this role the way Poots does. Sniega, and Thora Birch (who plays Claudia as an adult) are terrific, as is Epp, Flood and Cave. The biggest revelation is Jim Belushi, who is wonderful as author Ken Kesey, who plays a very important part in seeing Lidia’s talent as a writer. If there is one quibble, it is that, due to Stewart’s complete love and commitment to the material, the pace sometimes slows down. The Chronology Of Water is a hard film to recommend to general audiences, as it will alienate as many viewers as it impresses. It is fascinating that something so faithful and immersive will feel completely impenetrable to some, while others will drown in the feelings vividly brought to life, moved to tears by Lidia’s long, painful journey. Please, give this film (which I hope gets some kind of Oscar recognition next year) a chance. If you decide to read the book, make it a double with Kathy Acker’s 1984 book, Blood And Guts In High School. RATING - ****½

Aaron Rourke

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The Nightline, at Malthouse Bagging Room Emvina ■ Local emerging indie folk-pop artist Emvina makes her debut with Fading to Nowhere, a wistful and atmospheric tune on loss and learning to let go. Inspired by a solitary walk on a misty Melbourne winter morning, her press release says. “The song follows the feeling of searching for someone just beyond reach. It uses the changing of the seasons as a backdrop for shifting emotions.”

Crazy Theories ■ A 14-track album has been released by Gary Leonard Hammond. The album Crazy Theories is what Gary’s friends tell him when he shares his ideas on certain subjects and is a best of compilation featuring previous recordings. All music and lyrics are his own creations. Gary’s songs have been recorded by Russell Morris and Colleen Hewitt. Crazy Theories is available to enjoy on Youtube and his social media pages.

Ross at Memo ■ Aussie music legend Ross Wilson along with the Peaceniks will rock the Memo Music Hall St Kilda on Sunday, January 24. Due to overwhelming popular demand Ross’s 50 Years of Hits Tour extends into 2027 and to over 200 shows making it the biggest tour of his incredible 60-year career. Tickets at trybooking.com

■ Never having rung in to a nightline, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. From the first steps via an exterior four level set of stairs, after cold, firm instructions from a sort of strict principal “concierge”, door entry permitted full viewing of a space with 40 separate round tables. Each had its own tightly focussed light, self dial telephone and self select eight point channel input. Sparse instructions, like no talk permitted, were all in mime. Approximately 40 minutes of solitude with only your selection of incoming conversations. This was a powerful experience, wherein apart from the anonymous, at times almost night ramblings of whomever I dialled in to, there was nothing. Those streams of at times almost semi consciousness purveyed sadness, self deprecation, boredom, amusement, emptiness, longing ... Nothing to focus on but the voice at the other end of a phone line stimulated my own images of the callers – sad reflectives, sardonically amused, aged and overwhelmed, plagued with insomnia, broken biological sleep patterned shift workers, exhausted mums. The bleakest sentence of all was “It’s me again ...” I was listening to the voice of someone who was so in need of a human voice that they obviously rang in many, many times – the nightline was their society ...

This was a powerful experience, wherein apart from the anonymous, at times almost night ramblings of whomever I dialled in to, there was nothing. - Maggie Morrison “It’s good to talk” was a repeated sentence. “Why am I awake?” another. Despite my outside thoughts of sadness within callers, there was mostly a suggestion of a sort of acceptance and calmness about their being able to share thoughts with someone. A paradoxical caller was a solo flautist – lovely music being played but perhaps the only listeners for the sounds were via the Nightline. Occasionally alien light flashes and stormy weather sounds burst intrusively into “our” precious time – an outside world was there, but not for these callers in the night. Created by celebrated documentary maker Roslyn Oades and award winning sound artist Bob Scott with collaborators, this is unusual, compelling, immersive theatre which will open your mind to a different concept of human “sustainability”. Until August 29, Bagging Room, Malthouse Tickets from $38 Malthouse box office

● Photo: Simon Fazio

Review by Maggie Morrison

● Doug Elliot and Lou Richards. World of Sport. 1987.

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Local Briefs Reduce fire risk

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026

Portfolio axed ■ The position of Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery was abolished by new Premier Ben Carroll in this month’s Victorian ministry reshuffle. The position had been held by Eltham MLA Vicki Ward. Prior toi the changeover, Ms Ward had announced the Community Recovery Grants program. Community groups and non-for-profits could apply for grants up to $75,000 to deliver recovery programs of all sizes, she said. “The program will back locally led projects that help people recover, reconnect and rebuild across bushfire-affected council areas. “It is based on a simple principle: local communities know their recovery needs best. “That’s why we are giving local groups the flexibility to design and deliver the projects that matter most to them. “This can include trauma-informed training and psychological first aid. “It can also support community wellbeing events and workshops that bring locals together. “Projects may also include practical preparedness resources such as ‘Are You Ready?’ materials to help households plan for future emergencies. “This builds on more than $420 million in bushfire recovery support already funded, which we are delivering in partnership with the Commonwealth.” Applications are now open and close on August 31, Ms Ward said.

RECOVERY PROCESS IS ‘WELL BEHIND’ ■ Northern Victoria MLC Gaelle Broad says that more than six months after the summer bushfires and the recovery process is well behind. “The clean-up program has been delayed. We have had elderly residents cleaning up asbestos waste on sites,” Ms Broad told Parliament. “We have had home sites destroyed by the fires that are still waiting to be cleared, and any further tip waiver extensions have taken extensive follow-up to get. “Victoria is one of the most fire-prone parts of the world. There should be a playbook with minimum standards and a best practice framework. This was a big inquiry in a short timeframe, and for many the stories were raw. “Emergency services in this state are crucial, especially in rural and regional areas. Equipment matters; volunteers matter. There have been numerous inquiries, and we know what needs to happen. “We have got the main report and also a minority report put forward by the Liberals and Nationals, which focuses on the preventative aspects, the response and the recovery.We have got to improve emergency response capability, invest in equipment with our CFA and FRV, make changes to ensure our volunteers get the training and support.”

LODGE THIS COUPON FOR YOUR FREE 40-WORD ADVT. Your business can have a free 40-word listing in each 2026 edition of this free newspaper, and also at our website - www.phoenixnews.com.au. The free service is worth $40 per issue, and is available totally without charge to businesses in the Mansfield, Murrindindi, Nillumbik, Mitchell, Strathbogie, Whittlesea, Yarra Ranges regions. It is important to promote local businesses as this region rebuilds. (All ad listings are at the sole discretion of the Editor of The Phoenix). Post this coupon to: The Phoenix, PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095 If not enough space on this form, attach wording on a plain sheet of paper. Listing Information:

Business Name Address

■ Environment Minister Enver Erdogan says the State Government want to reduce fire risk, protect communities and improve the public’s and the forest’s health, so essential forest and fire management activities are needed. “From time to time fuel breaks and removing hazardous trees are required to not only protect communities but to protect, to be honest, the biodiversity of areas and the animals that they sustain. “There is a reason for that work, and the reason is where possible woody debris, retaining forests that support habitat and biodiversity. We will not take out necessarily all the debris. The supply of by-products is always limited but necessary at times. “We made a tough decision as a Labor government to end and bring forward the end of the native timber harvesting industry in January 2024,” Mr Erdogan told State Parliament.

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Every local business throughout the bushfire affected region qualifies for up to $1760 worth of free advertising in The Phoenix newspaper. The offer is available throughout 2026, to all business owners in the municipalities of Mansfield, Murrindindi, Mitchell, Nillumbik, Strathbogie, Whittlesea and Yarra Ranges. The packages are totally free of cost. There is no obligation. The free advertising packages provide a free 40-word line listing, worth $40 each fortnight until December 9, 2026. That’s a free $40 ad in 23 print issues (plus more free ads in 22 further online issues on alternate weeks). Each advertisement is listed in The Phoenix Newspaper and also online at www.phoenixnews.com.au To apply for a free advertising package, complete the form online, or mail the coupon (below) to The Phoenix, PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. All advertising packages are subject to the approval of the Editor of The Phoenix. The free advertising packages are being privately funded by the owners of The Phoenix and its major supporters throughout metropolitan Melbourne, country Victoria, and interstate. Not a cent of tax - or public-money - is being used to fund this unprecedented promotion of local business. The Phoenix is operated by Local Media Pty Ltd of Eltham, publishers of The Local Paper and the Melbourne Observer.

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The The Local Local Paper Paper - Wednesday, - Wednesday, February August 26, 18, 2026 - Page 49 45

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■ Prior to the introduction of television, it was bedlam in the Grand Picture Theatre in Coburg and indeed picture theatres all over Melbourne at the Saturday afternoon matinees. The theatres would be packed with enthusiastic youngsters and when our hero Hopalong Cassidy came on the screen in his black cowboy outfit we would cheer the ‘goodies’ and boo the ‘baddies’. He rode high in the saddle on his faithful horse Topper and saved the West, with a little help from the audience of young admirers sucking icy poles and munching on packets of lollies. I noted in the credits that Hopalong Cassidy was played by a bloke with grey hair called William Boyd. William Boyd was born in 1895 in Ohio. At the age of 18 he worked as an extra on silent films before becoming a leading actor and starring in epics directed by Cecil B. DeMille. In 1935 he was offered the role of Hopalong Cassidy based on the novels and short stories of Clarence E. Mulford. This character was a hero of the West – remarkably honest, he didn’t drink or smoke and always defeated the bad guys. The first in the series of films was titled Hop-a-long Cassidy(a.k.a. Hopalong Cassidy Enters) which was produced by Paramount Studios in 1935. William Boyd was 40 years old when he took on the character that would make him famous throughout the world.

Whatever Happened to ... William Boyd

ings such as Hopalong Cassidy and the Haunted Mine. Boyd made a cameo appearance as Hopalong Cassidy in the 1952 film The Greatest Show on Earth at the invitation of his old friend Cecil B. DeMille. In 1954 William Boyd came to Melbourne and appeared at the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds with his Wild West Show. Huge crowds flocked to Myers, Bourke Street when ‘Hoppy’ made a personal appearance at the department store. He also visited returned servicemen and women at the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital. Apparently, he was a shrewd businessman and anticipated the demand for television shows when the medium became popular in America. He bought the rights to his old Hopalong Cassidy films, edited them down to television episodes and then sold them to the networks. As a result, he became very wealthy. During his lifetime William Boyd was married five times. He died in 1972 in Laguna Beach, California from complications from Parkinson's disease and heart failure. William Boyd was buried in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Glendale, California.

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

The series of 66 Hopalong Cassidy films included Cassidy of Bar 20, Cassidy Rides Again and In Old Colorado. I loved the great character actors that played ‘sidekicks’ opposite Hopalong Cassidy, Andy Clyde as California, Rand Brooks as Lucky and the incredible George ‘Gabby’ Hayes. George Hayes was a respected stock actor prior to breaking into films. He was well read and always immaculately dressed when he was not playing character parts. Some famous actors such as Robert Mitchum and George Reeves played small roles in Hopalong Cassidy films. During the 1940’s ‘Hoppy’ could be heard on radio and was very popular in the comics. Do you remember those old 78 record-

● William Boyd

Kevin can be heard on 3AW The Time Tunnel - Remember When Sundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au

LIZ MAGOR’S WORK AT MAPh Entertainment Extra Men At Work revisited

● Men At Work

■ Colin Hay will be bringing his world class band from LA in October to venues across Australia, offering a night as they revisit the quintessential songs of his seminal 80s outfit Men At Work. It has been 45 years since the conception of one of the world’s most celebrated Australian albums. With tracks like Down Under, Who Can It Be Now and Be Good Johnny still in high rotation on airwaves across the globe, there is no denying that Men At Work’s debut studio album Business As Usual has stood the test of time. “What has clearly stood the test of time, are the songs. Forty-five years on, I still hear them in the street, on the radio, in supermarkets, they are still going strong,” said Colin Hay. Having spent 15 weeks at No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 and five weeks at No. 1 in the UK albums chart, Business As Usual defined an era where Australian rock music emerged from the beer-soaked stages of local haunts and started to make its mark on an industry saturated by sequins and synth. Since then, frontman Colin Hay has had a prolific career touring as both a solo artist and a long-term member of Ringo Starr and His AllStarr Band. In more recent years he has collected a stellar group of LAbased musicians to tour under the moniker of Men At Work, giving punters abroad the experience of that eclectic and iconic sound imprinted on the fabric of Australia’s identity. “I would never have predicted back in 1985, that 40 years on, I would still be fronting Men At Work, this version featuring Cubans, a Peruvian, an American, and me. Over the last few years, I have gone out on tour as Men At Work, on a quest of discovery. To discover whether or not we still have an audience. Turns out we do, people of all ages, of all different backgrounds, who find something in the songs that brings them joy,” said Hay The 2026 Men At Work Oz Tour promises a setlist of songs for all generations. The event is a salute to the meteoric rise of Business As Usual and the enduring songs from their other albums that changed the trajectory of popular music in Australia and beyond. Wed. Nov. 4 - Palais Theatre, Melbourne.

Tess Fox

Roll Up – Liz Magor Can Where everyday objects reveal extraordinary truths. Created more than 20 years ago Roll Up by acclaimed Canadian artist Liz Magor feels remarkably prescient within the context of the Burrinja Climate Change Biennale. Its inclusion highlights the enduring power of visual art to reflect, question and even anticipate the challenges of our time. Renowned for her sculptural and photographic practice, Margot transforms familiar materials and everyday objects into compelling installations that blur our boundaries between the ordinary and the uncanny. Her work explores the emotional and symbolic qualities embedded with commonplace things, inviting audiences to reconsider what we discard, preserve and value. In Roll Up, everyday materials ae assembled into an evocative sculptural form that resonates with contemporary concerns around consumption, waste and environmental responsibility. Displayed within The Biennale, the work reveals how artists can offer profound insight into the future, encouraging reflection on our relationship with the material world and the changes that shape it. Season: Saturday August 22 – Sunday October 25. MAPh 860 Ferntree Rd, Wheelers Hill

Maroondah Gallery 31st Annual Mayoral Art Exhibition Sense of Place The 31st Annual Mayoral Art Exhibition invites artists of all ages to submit original art across a range of mediums. Applications close 5pm Monday August 31. About the Mayoral Art Exhibition: The Mayoral Art Exhibition is an annual fundraiser that raises funds for the Bone Marrow Donor Institute (now part of Fight Cancer). Over the past three decades, the exhibition has brought together thousands of artists while contributing to cancer research. Artists of all ages are encouraged to enter. Eligible mediums include photography, sculpture, drawing, painting, printmaking and ceramics. Applications may be submitted by email asom19346 @bigpond.net.au Please include Mayoral Art Exhibition Application in the subject line. Bank details for payment of entry fees will be supplied upon receipt. Applications close 5pm Monday August 31 . The exhibition will run from September 21 to October 24 at Maroondah Federation Estate Gallery. All eligible works will be exhibited, and a number of works will be selected for Mayoral and Community Bank Ringwood East and Croydon acquisitions. Announcement of both acquisitions will be made at the exhibition launch on Tuesday October 1. Maroondah Gallery 32 Greenwood Ave, Ringwood

The Arts With Peter Kemp

Congress ■ Melburnians will take the stage at Argyle Square on Saturday, October 3, to deliver the speech every politician gives on their first day in Parliament – except none of them are running for anything. Congress is a large-scale civic performance created by All The Queens Men, presented in Argyle Square, Carlton, as part of Melbourne Fringe. Inspired by the tradition of a politician's inaugural address, Congress invites everyday citizens to write and deliver their own "first speech" to the nation, imagining the future they want to see. Each speaker is paired with a leading writer to shape a deeply personal address, staged with full choreography, music and movement in a public square. Congress is civic storytelling on a grand scale: speeches that reveal the richness, complexity and diversity of contemporary Australia, performed among and for the people they're written for. Eight weeks out from Victorians going to the polls on November 28, public debate feels more divided than ever. Congress offers something rarer than argument: a room full of people actually listening to each other, proof that democracy is strengthened when citizens feel heard, respected and connected. Following acclaimed presentations across Australia and internationally, Congress returns to Melbourne as a landmark free public event, bringing together community participants from across the city with some of the country's most celebrated writers and an acclaimed creative team. The speakers at Congress include: Uncle Charles Pakana, Geoffrey Lim, River Gammon, Tina Hosseini, Anna Pidgeon, Tony and Francesco Cattafi, Nicolette Forte and Vera Kipp-Murray. 7.30pm, Saturday, October 3 Argyle Square, Lygon Street, Carlton Tickets: Free Bookings: melbournefringe.com.au/whatson/events/congress

Page 50 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026

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The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 18, 26, 2026 2026 -- Page Page 47 51 The Local Paper - Wednesday, February

STARS TO COME OUT AT CAULFIELD ■ Our most decorated thoroughbreds are in full work and gradually returning to the races for a spring campaign. The Memsie Stakes at Caulfield this Saturday (Aug. 29) is the first opportunity for them to compete at Group 1 level in Melbourne, as they advance towards their mid-to-late season objectives. Although first held in 1899, it has only been since 1980 that the distance has been 1400 metres. Run under weight-for-age conditions, the field for Saturday’s edition is shaping up to be a ripper, with these stars expected to attract people to the track: Cosmic Crusader Made it two wins from two starts since relocating from North Dandalup in Western Australia to Pakenham. That was in the Lawrence Stakes, and this is over the same course and distance, albeit a bigger challenge. His performances cannot be faulted, so for now at least, he ought to be considered one of the hardest to beat. Jimmysstar Has well established credentials in weight-for-age company and is sure to prove hard to hold out. This will be his first race since finishing close up in a couple of Brisbane Group 1 events in May. He is a winner of five from eight starts first-up and three times at this track and distance, including the Group 1 Orr Stakes. A big return is expected. Aeliana Top class multiple Group 1 winning mare. Usually resumes from a spell over 1400 metres, as she is likely to do here. Always acquits herself well first-up, despite being aimed towards feature events over a longer trip later in the campaign. Must be included. Angel Capital Great return when he worked home nicely for third in the Missile Stakes at Randwick over 1200 metres. Has won twice at Caulfield over 1400 metres. Came from last to finish second to Jimmysstar in the Orr Stakes at this track and trip last November. Won’t be far away if he travels down from Sydney for this. Mr Brightside One of the all-time great milers in Australian racing history and equally adept at 1400 metres. Embarking on what may be his final campaign. Won this race in 2023 and finished runner-up in each of the past two years. Should run his usual honest race. Treasurethe Moment Won this race last year when resuming off a break and there is no reason why she can’t do so again. Her overall record at Caulfield is excellent. From six starts at the track, she has chalked up four wins, one second and one third.

Observer Racing

● Cosmic Crusader. Racing Photos.

Rod Basto

Family Day ■ Aushorse, the not-for-profit marketing body of the Australian thoroughbred industry, has organised a free special event to be held at Mornington racecourse this Sunday (Aug. 30). You can meet local racehorse trainers and gain exclusive insights into thoroughbreds, as they parade and gallop down the home straight.

● Jimmysstar. Racing Photos.

Participating trainers will include David and Coral Feek, Freedman Racing, Matt Laurie, Shane Nichols, Jason Warren and Amy and Ash Yargi. It promises to be a fun day out for the whole family, as there will also be pony rides and face painting. Gates will open at 10am and it is necessary to register for tickets online through Ticketek.

Cup Countdoqwn ■ Six four-year- olds have won the Melbourne Cup so far this century, with just one of those a mare. The New Zealander, Ethereal, first came to Australia to race in Brisbane as a threeyear-old, winning the Queensland Oaks.

She returned in the spring of 2001 as a four-year-old, this time to Melbourne, where she won both the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups. With 68 days to go until the running of the 166th Melbourne Cup, the following four-year-old mare is a possible contender: Strictly Business With just one unplaced run under her belt as a two-year-old, this daughter of Grunt and Tivoli Lass suddenly became a stayer on the rise as a three-year-old last spring. Just two starts after winning a Ballarat maiden over 1400 metres first-up, she proved herself head and shoulders above the opposition, coming from last to easily win the Group 1 VRC Oaks at Flemington over 2500 metres. Another brief campaign followed in the autumn, culminating in a photo-finish second in the Group 1 SA Derby at Morphettville over 2500 metres. If this Ballarat-based mare is able to continue on an upward trajectory when she returns this spring and steps up in distance, then her current quote of $51 to win the Cup may prove value.

Horses To Follow ■ Zoucity ■ Closer To Free ■ Sapphire Siren

Racing Calendar ■ Wednesday, Aug 26: Bendigo ■ Thursday, Aug 27: Seymour ■ Friday, Aug 28: Geelong ■ Saturday, Aug 29: Caulfield, Warracknabeal ■ Sunday, Aug 30: Echuca, Casterton ■ Monday, Aug 31: Ballarat Synthetic ■ Tuesday, Sep 1: Wodonga

Page 52 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, August 26, 2026

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FOR SALE TRAVEL TRUNK. Or Steamer Trunk Size. 35 inches long, 19 inches high. 19½ inches wide. Black. GC. $200. Mount Waverley. 0435 998 164. BB-EE

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AFL BOOKS. Approx. 30. All in great cond. Some autobiography, some stats. EC. $30. Euroa. 0455 267 422. HH-KK ANTIQUES, radios, bric-abrac, furniture, bakelite . Sale every weekend in Tillamarine. 10am-2pm by appointment. FC-VGC. Prices vary. Tullamarine,. 0404 091 102. BB-EE

BED. Hospital-type. Fully adjustable, electric with side rails and pneumatic alternating pressure mattress and controller. EC. $1200. Watsonia. 0490 130 660. U -Y BED FRAME. With base. On feet. EC. Free pick-up. Baxter. 04067 047 602. BB-EE BED HEAD. Book shelf. Wooden light colour. VGC. $40. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB

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BED. Electric hospital bed. King, single, fully adjustable, side rails, electronic controls and pneumatic alternating pressure mattress with air pump. VGC. $2000. Northcote. 9481 1172. HH-KK BOOKS. Approx. 50. Ranging from cricket gear and general. Also AFL. All in EC. Will not separate. $80. Euroa. 0455 267 422. X-BB

DRUM KIT. Rogers USA. 40 years old. Re-skinned in black. Comp,lete with cymbals, hi-hat, heavy duty stands and stool. Great sounding drums. VGC. $2300. Rye. 0415 441 843. X-BB ENCYCLOPEDIA. World Book, complete set, A-Z. Plus science, atlas and dictionaryt. GC. $60 the lot. Frankston. 9789 9634. BB-EE

BMW. Excellent 2016 X6 Diesel Turbo M Sport. Great condition. Recent RWC. Full service books, every mod con, all working in great order. Priced under market value for quick sale. EC. $19,450. Yarrambat. 0419 534 401. HH-KK BOAT. Aluminium. 9ft, plus 6ft x 4.8ft box trailer, plus new 3½HP outboard motor. $500. Yallambie. 9459 6840. HH-KK CARAVAN. Grand Campion Gazelle. 17ft 5.2m full annex with floor double bed with two kids beds, gas cooktop, 3-way fridge, TV, inbuilt AC, registered and insured. Red book value: $15,000. Pop-top. 1170 kg registered, many extras. VGC. Reg N51980. $12,500. Flowerdale. 0411 577 050. HH-KK CHAIR. Black,. Firm. Comfortable seat and back. VGC. $25.. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB CHEST OF DRAWERS. Teak colour. Good size. VGC. $30. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB DESK. With 4 drawesr. brown teak colour. As new. $50. Baxter. 0407 047 602. X-BB DINING CHAIRS. 4 Ligna. No. 27. 1960-70s. Made in Czechoslovakia. Original condition, restored. GC. $200. Mornington. 0403 163 933. HH-KK

LAURA ASHLEY Cotton Queen Size Overlet size. Sizxe: 220cm x 240cm. Plus 2 pillow cases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $25. Ashburton. 9885 2203. HH-KK L ADDER. Aluminium. Baile. Heavy duty. Industrial profession al contractopr. 150kg. Extends to 27 ft. EC. $500. Mornington. 0403 163 933. HH-KK MOBILE PHONE. Nokia 2254g. As new. $79. Yea. 0412 063 971. HH-KK ONKAPARINGA Squatter S30 style red/blue tartan woollen rug. 152 x FIBREGLASS Runabout 182cm. EC. $30. AshburSea Wasp. 12ft trailer, ton. 9885 2203. oars and seat cushions. GC. HH-KK $800. Willamstown. 0419 PLANTS. Indoor Outdoor 356 656. Covers. Stags, Bird HH-KK Ground of Paradise, Succulents, Ferns, Hydrangeas, more. FIREWOOD. All ready for Come and see. Very cheap. use. $85. Can deliver. VGC. Noble Park. 0407 Cranbourne. 0466 690 325 030. I-L 323. HH-KK PLASTER BOARD. New. FIREWOOD. 3mm trailer Free. Clyde North. 0400 load, cut, pine. Ready for 189 060. F-I use. $150. Can deliver. Cranbourne. 0466 690 PLUMBING DOWNPIPE. Colourbond Steel. 323. BB-EE 100x50mm. Four lengths FOOTBALL MEMORA- at 1.8 metres. Yea. 0419 BILIA. 22 records, all 30 109 887. years or over. Collingwood O-S books, posters. records, $6 RECORD PL AYER. each. Books various prices. GC. Box Hill South. 9890 Retro. Radiogram and large speakers and records. 7904. BB-EE EC. $300. Mill Park. 9436 8935. BB-EE SHIPPING TRUNK. Vintage. Wooden. 21950s. Size: 39½ inches long, 31½ inches wide, 22 in high. GC. $250. HEDGE CLIPPER. Ozito ches 2409V. FC. Works. $20. Bundoora. 9467 8990. HH-KK Coburg. 0405 136 239. HH-KK STOVE. Free standing. CHR Park Lane. Fan forced, HOLDEN ASTRA. 2007 4 burners. grill, oven, alTurbo Diesel. Clean. most new. $250. Donvale. Straight body, red, drives 0418 380 095. well. Very nippy. Reg until HH-KK July 2027. AUR-051. GC. $2500. Euroa. 0455 267 SWAP CARDS. Vintage. 422. HH-KK 790 in old album. 30 cents HOSPITAL BED. Electric each. Total: $240. Pick-up with remote multi function. from Thomastown. 0425 VGC. $850. Flowerdale. 733 890. HH-KK 0439 605 046. BB-EE

VICTORIAN rocking horse, carved from wood and original. GC. $2000. Broadmeadows, Dallas. 0480 273 335 I-L VIDEOS. Olympic Games. Melbourne, 1956. Sydney, 2000. Manchester, opening and closing. GC. $10 each. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. F-I VINTAGE Mechanical Car and Trucks Jacks. 250 in total. Price negotiable. Williamstown. 0400 825 550. H-K WALL TILES. Johnson White bathroom 150 x 150mm. Approx 128 tiles. $60. Soal holder $10. Johnson wall tiles, 198mm x 198mm. Approx 60 tiles, $40. Yea. 0419 109 887. O-S WASHING MACHINE. Haier. 6kg. VGC. $80. Thomastown. 0431 367 868. I-L WELLNESS STIMULATOR. Clare. Instruction Manual included. VGC. $100. Frankston. 9789 9634 O-S WINDOW AIR CONDITIONER. VGC. $60. Thomastown. 0431 367 868. I-L

WANTED ANZ BANK Money Boxes. GC. Will also trade. Proices negotiable. Mill Park. 9436 8935. BB-EE

B-CURE LASER. Portable therapeutic device, either new or used in good working order. Price negotiable. Ashburton. 9885 2203. O-S TRUCKS WANTED for reale or wrecking. Richard, 0419 566 009. Q-W VFL/VFA footy memorabilia, cards, season tickets, posters, badges, pennants, records, souvenirs or anything footy related 1900s1980s. Any condition. Best prices offered. Melbourne. 0412 291 577

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DINING SUITE. 900 x 1600 wooden table, 6 grey coloured chairs. VGC. $400. Mt Martha. 0419 534 365. HH-KK DRIZA-BONE Bushman’s Coat Oilskin Jacket Top of the range. Unwanted gift. RRP $479. X range. New. $380. West Heidelberg. 0407 226 607. HH-KK

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INSULATION BLANKET. 1200 x 10 mts. Foil backed, 2 packs. New. $120. Hastings. 0428 776 202. HH-KK

TRAILER. 7x4 single axle trailer with removable 600mm cage. Tilt body with front and rear tailgates. Hot-dip galvanised and fully welded body. 2.5mm checker plate floor. LED lights. Spare wheel. 1200mm drawbar. 12 months rego, Z25487. GC. $950. Briar Hill. 0407 819 877. I-L

FIRST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH. 11.30am. Laughter Yoga. Nunawading Laughter Yoga group. LOL Join 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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Notice of Precipe For the record, the woman living in her private capacity, known by her proper name, Leah Bridget of Elwood, Victoria, is permanently domiciled on the land and soil of the Terra Australis State (Terra Australis). I am not a voluntary transactor in commerce. I hold, by right of original claim, the paramount security interest over all estates, property, assets, and collateral, both registered and unregistered. This absolute security interest extends over all associated copyright-protected trade names, including LEAH FRAME, FRAME LEAH BRIDGET, LEAH BRIDGET FRAME, LEAH B FRAME, LEAH B. FRAME, L.B. FRAME, L B FRAME, FRAME LEAH, Leah Bridget FRAME, LEAH Frame, Leah FRAME, FRAME Leah, LEAH B. Frame, Leah B. FRAME, Leah Frame, Leah Bridget Frame, Leah B. Frame, L.F., LF, LBF, L.B.F., and MS LB. My lawful reconveyance to the land and soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis was recorded under Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 28447 50606 on the Proclamation Date 24 July 2025. Consequently, all usufruct subjugation ties with the corporate government of Australia are severed. I declare that I am no longer under government oversight, rescind government benefits, have removed myself from all voting rolls, and refuse and waive my right to enter into a RECOGNIZANCE everywhere as a person before the law. This standing reflects the peremptory norms of international law (jus cogens) from which no derogation is permitted, binding all state organs and corporate entities regardless of domestic legislative provisions to the contrary. The Australian government and its affiliates are hereby instructed to cease and desist misaddressing and misrepresenting the name Leah Bridget Frame in all capital letters contrary to the rules of standard English grammar and immediately cease and desist infringing upon my estate, private property, assets, collateral, and copyright-protected trade names. By the Christian woman: Leah Bridget.

CHRISTINE MILLAR Estate Let it be known to all, the sole lawful Heiress of the original said estate has been found living, has come of age, is of sound mind and competent to manage the affairs of the estate. Integrating life coaching principles combined with Psychic and Mediumship. Excelling at photo readings, connecting with those who have crossed over. 1 photo = 1hr reading. Also providing coaching support for those looking at emotional support strategies and adopting new perspectives. 1hr sessions at $120 Ph: 0414 614 121 WALTER AND ELIZA HALL INSTITUTE RESERVE Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held at 1G Royal Parade, Parkville on 20 August 2026 commencing at 3pm. The purpose of the meeting is to nominate four persons as the Committee of Management for the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute Reserve for a term of three years. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the day. Nominations from people from diverse backgrounds are encouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office or at the meeting. For further enquiries please contact the Secretary, Steven Droste on (03)9345 2958. PERSONALS MNale, 74 years old, widower. Slim. No family. Own home. A bit lonely at times. Seeking lady, the same. For friendship and outings. Brian, 0451 776 821.

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT Riversdale Golf Club, 200-280 Huntingdale Road MOUNT WAVERLEY VIC 3149 RFNSA Site Number: 3149010 • Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station located at the Riversdale Golf Club, 200-280 Huntingdale Road, MOUNT WAVERLEY. The proposed upgrade will improve Telstra 4G and 5G services in the area. • The proposed upgrade works on the existing monopole consist of: • Removal of fifteen (15) existing antennas • Installation of three (3) new panel antennas (each less than 2.8m in length) • Installation of six (6) new panel antennas (each less than 1.1m in length) • Installation/replacement of ancillary equipment • Works inside the existing equipment shelter • In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal. • Please direct comments to Mark Baade (Planning Consultant) on mark@saqconsulting.com.au, 0417 088 000 or to SAQ Consulting, P O Box 50 Clayfield QLD 4011 by Wednesday 2nd September 2026.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3149010 Telstra Limited ACN: 086 174 781 SAQ Consulting ACN: 627 531 926

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GARAGE SALE 8am-4pm Sat., August 29 110A Mebourne Ave Glenroy Furniture, bric-a-brac, moving home interstate. 0416 202 663

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Gravesite For Sale CHELTENHAM MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY Rare opportunity to purchase at CMPC. Coastal Rise N.130 Up to 3 Burials plus additional Cremations. Unique position beside flowering Gums and Bench Seat. Must inspect to appreciate impressive site. Inquiries: 0417 556 755

Not going, in need of repair, or unwanted. Cash or pick-up. Text or phone 0439 828 509

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