The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Feb. 4, 2026

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026

RATES HELP FOR FIRE VICTIMS

■ Murrindindi Shire Council says that it recognises that for affected local people may feel overwhelming, and knows that Council rates will be the last thing on their mind right now.

“Council is committed to supporting fire-affected property owners and renters as they begin the process of recovery and rebuilding,” a Shire representative said.

“Tailored arrangements will apply for properties within the fire footprint.

“For properties where a home or major outbuildings were destroyed or significantly damaged:

■ All impacted properties will have detailed on-site assessments undertaken to confirm the extent of damage.

■ The information from the assessment will then be used to help inform a revaluation of the property. This is expected to take several months to complete.

■ An adjusted (supplementary) rates notice will then be issued, reflecting the change in property value from January 8 to 30 June 2026.

“No rates payment is required from affected ratepayers until after they receive the revised supplementary notice.

For properties inside the fire footprint that did not sustain property loss, the due date for full rates payment or the third instalment for people paying by instalment will be extended to March 31.

For properties outside the fire-affected footprint, there will be no change to the standard due dates.

$9000 FINE OVER UNSAFE BATTERIES

■ A solar and battery system company has been fined $9000 without conviction in the Seymour Magistrates’ Court after admitting to offences related to unsafely installing home batteries at five Victorian properties between December 2023 and July 2024, including one that sparked a minor house fire.

Greenova Pty Ltd pleaded guilty on January 8 to three charges under the Electricity SafetyAct1998for not complying with electrical installation requirements and failing to have the battery energy storage systems assessed by a licensed electrical inspector before connection.

Energy Safe Victoria became aware of the offending conduct after receiving information from the Country Fire Authority about a battery fire at a Toolamba property.

Further enquiries revealed Greenova had installed battery systems at other properties in Caveat, Doncaster, Marong and Launching Place, similarly without arranging the legally required electrical inspections.

Magistrate Allison Vaughan said the battery fire “could have had catastrophic results”, highlighting the incident as a clear example of why electrical safety laws require installations be independently checked before connection.

Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said the outcome sent a clear message about the importance of complying with mandatory battery safety requirements: “Installing battery systems safely is not optional and neither is arranging the required electrical inspections before switching them on,” Ms Hughson said.

FREE ADS FOR FIREAFFECTED BUSINESSES

Throughout 2026, our ‘Phoenix’ section will offer absolutely free 40-word ads for local fire-affected businesses. Lodge your free ad at phoenixnews.com.au

Places To Go

OUR DIRECTORY TO THE BEST DESTINATIONS

The ‘Places To Go’ section has the latest news on travel – in Victoria, interstate and internationally. By road, by rail, by air, by water – Places To Go covers it all. Starts February 18 issue.

YOUR GUIDE TO COUNTRY LIVING

Life in the bush has its own unique set of challenges.

Check our ‘Victorian Rural News’ section for the latest info. VicRuralNews.com.au

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026

Local Briefs

SDCA this Saturday

■ A-Grade. Round 14. Sat., Feb. 7. Pyalong

A Grade v Tallarook Hotel A Grade, at Pyalong Recreation Reserve. Avenel Senior Men A v Seymour, at Avenel Recreation Reserve. Yea Tigers A Grade v Alexandra A Grade, at Yea Recreation Reserve. Bye: Puckapunyal Senior Mixed A.

■ B-Grade. Round 14. Sat., Feb. 7. Tallarook

B Grade v Pyalong B Grade, at Tallarook Recreation Reserve. Seymour Senior Mixed B v Avenel Senior Men B, at Chittick Park (East). Alexandra B Grade v Yea Tigers B Grade, at Leckie Park. Bye: Puckapunyal Senior Mixed B.

Recovery takes time

MURRINDINDI’S VERY OWN SUPERMAN

■ Adam Kamenek of Acheron CFA has penned this salute:

“Meet Clark Kent. Also known as Damien Gallagher, Murrindindi Shire Councillor and our Mayor.

“I want to give a quick shout out to a member of my brigade whom I’ve decided to call Clark Kent from here on out.

“The reason for the nickname? One minute Damien is in his yellows fighting fires for hours (or days) on end, and the next minute he’s in a suit leading the council's recovery effortsreassuring the community, hosting politicians, attending community meetings, and talking, caring and listening to those affected by the events of the last few weeks.

“Then - boom - he is back to civvy clothes or firefighting gear again.

“I reckon he must have a secret phonebox he gets into to quickly change outfits.

“When I put the call out for a replacement crew today, again he was there - no questions asked.

“Like the rest of the brigade members giving more of what little spare time most have these days (and even more so in these circumstances), Damo was out there again.

“He is certainly not the only member who has gone above and beyond, but again, after doing the ‘Mayor deal’ all day, he spent the afternoon working hard as hell in the heat, shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the crew.

News Briefs

Honours for locals

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division

■ Mr Vivian Martin Beaumont, Avenel. For service to the community through a range of roles.

■ Mr James Christopher Child, Wesburn For service to local government, and to the community of the Yarra Ranges.

■ Mr Reginald Gordon Cleland, Kilmore. For service to equestrian sports.

■ Mrs Diane Marlyce Mackrell, Kelvin View. For service to the community of the Strathbogie region.

■ Mr Maxwell John Michell. For service to the rail transport industry.

■ Mr Lionel Hastings Parrott. For service to the community through a range of roles.

■ Mr Geoffrey Wayne Penny, Terip Terip For service to the communities of Gobur and Terip Terip.

■ Mr Gordon Murray Simpson, Alexandra. For service to the community of Alexandra.

■ Ms Christine Sarah Welsh, Seymour. For service to the community through emergency response organisations.

Works on YV Trail

■ Construction has begun on the next 1.5km stretch of the Yarra Valley Trail, which will extend to the Yarra River. It is anticipated that this new section will open mid-year. This stretch includes four creek crossings, including a restored heritage rail bridge. These bridge components are currently being fabricated off-site.

● ● ●

● Dr Helen Haines, Indi MHR

■ Indi MHR Dr Helen Haines says that recovery from the bushfires will take time.

“Across both ends of the electorate, bushfires have left deep scars. A life lost. Homes ruined. Paddocks blackened. Fences destroyed. Livestock lost. Entire livelihoods upended,” Dr Haines said.

“I’ve been on the ground in affected communities, listening to residents, volunteers and emergency services, and seeing firsthand the scale of the damage.

“Recovery will take time and it will require sustained support and delivery - not just in the weeks ahead, but for months to come. And with more significant hot weather ahead, conditions remain treacherous for some of our communities.”

Shire’s first meeting

■ Strathbogie Shire Council’s first 2026 meeting is due to be held at 4pm on Tuesday, February 17, at the Euroa Community Centre.

“No complaints. Just a smile and a canbloody-do attitude.

Then, like magic, boom outfit change again and he’s in a pair of short and funky footy shorts at the pub having a late dinner with the crew.

“Just like the rest of us, he certainly wasn’t winning any fashion shows tonight, but again, Damo finds the time to just be there.

“Honestly, I don’t know how he finds the time. He often talks about others being a ‘MurrindindiHero’ but I reckon he needs to look in the mirror and recognise that he is one of them too.

“So, thanks Damo, for being a legend of a bloke, an awesome firefighter, an amazing crew leader, and a great friend.

“Oh, and for being like an awesome mayor and all that. lol

“Thank you though for caring so much about our community and for everything you do, legend.

“Now have a bloody rest, mate!”

■ ‘Clark Kent’ is the disguise used by the comic character Superman who fights for good.

Cr Fiona McAllister, Ryrie Ward Councillor said:

“Yarra Ranges Council is committed to delivering this iconic community asset, and advocating for additional funding remains a top priority as we head into the 2026 State election,” said Cr McAllister

The Local Paper is published weekly online and printed fortnightly, and circulates in local editions:

• Regional/’Dindi Local’ Edition: Murrindindi, Mansfield, rural sections of Nillumbik and Whittlesea

• ‘Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express’ Edition: Yarra Ranges Shire

• Mitchell Strathbogie Edition: Mitchell Shire and Strathbogie Shire

Emergency issues for bushfires

● ● Three ‘Emergency Editions’ of The Local Paper were published over the summer break for urgent news coverage of the Longwood bushfire crisis. Copies were emailed free to subscribers (free subscriptions are available at www.FreePaper.com.au). Frequent news updates were published daily at the www.LocalPaper.com.au website and on the ‘Local Paper’ page on Facebook.

2026: giant year for news

■ It has already started as a big news year for TheLocalPaper.

In this neck of the woods, TheLocalPaper team interrupted their annual summer break to produce special ‘Emergency Editions’ to cover the latest news from the Longwood fires.

TheLocalPaperis bringing back The Phoenix newspaper section, that played an important role in the recovery of the region after the 2009 Black Saturday fires (the 17th anniversary of that fateful day is on Saturday, February 7, 2026).

The Phoenix is an extra section, giving us more space to cover recovery news throughoutc 2026.

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

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

As Indi MHR Helen Haines rightly points out, the bushfire recovery will be a long process, and will take many months.

TheLocalPaperis playing its part as a corporate citizen. Our newspapers are already free; there is no paywall for our online news, there is no cover price for our hard copy papers.

The Local Paper will also provide up to

The Local Paper is providing free advertising packages each worth up to $1720 to ALL businesses in our NE area. PhoenixNews.com.au

$1720 in free advertising to any and all businesses in this region which includes Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik (rural), Strathbogie, Whittlesea (rural) and Yarra Ranges.

That’s a free 40word ad in all 44 issues (including 23 in print) in 2026.

Tell your business story to the entire region.

Your business does not need to have been burnt out or directly affected to qualify for the free package.

This is about boosting local trade across the region for the quicket possible recovery.

The Phoenix idea operated for 18 months in 2009-10, and we gave away more than $1.3 million in local ads.

The project is funded entirely by The Local Paper, no government funds are involved.

To participate, absolutely free, simply lodge the form printed inside this edition. Or go to: www.PhoenixNews. com.au

Local Briefs

TV signals affected

■ TV transmission at Mt Hickey was impacted during the bushfires. The towerwghich serves some of Mitchell Shire including Broadford - has been using an alternative signal source while the community has waited for the Mt Alexander service to return.

ABC and SBS should continue working normally and usually won’t require a rescan.

The digital TV signal has been coming from Mt Major (near Shepparton ) with good quality.

To restore commercial channels (7, 9 and 10), please Viewers were asked to re-scan their TV or set-top box forn Channels 7, 9 and 10. Another re-scan will be needed to resume services from Mt Alexander. Signals resumed on Wednesday, January 21.

There is a differed RF channel, and all commercial networks are on this RF channel. A re-scan of the TV will be required.

Win/9HD and 9GEM only arec being broadcast. Seven has Seven HD / 7mate, and 10 have 10HD and 10Drama).

One-off payments

■ Those who evacuated their home following an evacuation warning, the Personal Hardship Assistance Program offers a one-off payment of $680 per adult and $340 per child, up to $2380 per family, to help cover evacuation costs.

For those most severely affected, the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment provides $1000 per adult and $400 per child where a home has been destroyed or made uninhabitable, or where serious injury has occurred.

Additional assistance includes emergency re-establishment grants, support for prolonged power outages, and dedicated recovery hotlines.

Roos special launch

■ Broadford Football Netball Club will debut in the Bendigo League with a special season launch on Saturday, March 28.

Most buildings lost at Scout Camp

■ One of Victoria’s largest Scouting campsites was hit by the Longwood fire with a loss of most buildings on site.

Mafeking Rover Park, situated at Caveat, north of Yea , is a 320-acre site established more than 30 years ago to support the oldest section of Scouting, Rover Scouts

“It has been a place that has shaped leadership, service and connection for generations of young adults and volunteers,” said a Scouting Victoria representative.

The Victorian Rover Scout Council confirmed that the site has lost at least eight structures including its main hall, cabins, a toilet block, sheds and training centre, as well as significant environmental impact to flora and fauna.

Chair of the Victorian Rover Council, Kira Miles, said that whilst the Scouting community is mourning the loss of buildings in the park, it is also acutely aware of the much greater losses facing Caveat residents and beyond, including Scouting families who have lost homes or structures.

“The Mafeking Park Management Group is already in discussions with the Caveat/Highlands community about what we can do to support recovery,” said Ms Miles

“We would not be able to run the park without the support of the local community, and we want to in turn support them as much as possible.

“We’ve been told some lost cattle are already making good use of our unburnt areas, which is great.

“Once the park is safe to use, we’ve offered it for any use that might be needed like storage for donated fodder, our remaining toilet blocks for volunteer use or anything else we can do to assist.”

Chair of the Mafeking Park management group, Douglas Ahearn, said his team would take its time in planning the recovery of the park, with a focus on both Scouting and nonScouting users.

He said that while the park structures are insured, it would only go part of the way towards covering costs. “Fundraising will also be a major part of our recovery,” he said.

“Mafeking has been a great resource in the past, and we hope it will be again.”

● ● Leaders inspect damage at Mafeking Park, Caveat.

Interest declared

■ Cr Sue Carpenter declared an interest at the January 21 special meeting of Murrindindi Shire Council: “I’d like to declare an interest in agenda item 3.2, as my son is an employee of one of the contractors on the Council’s panel. I do not believe this represents a conflict of interest as the decision before Council refers only to the maximum Council expenditure under the panel contract and does not involve decisions concerning the allocation of work to any particular contractor.”

$10 per week extra

■ New user fees and charges have been introduced for premium programs at Mitchell Shire Leisure facilities. The Premium Lifestyle Membership Add-On is $10 per week.

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, February 4

Amuso, Isabelle Barnett, Philip Butler, Jade Cahill, Aimee Cameron, Michael Cluney, Dorothy Deleo, Rebecca Jayne Driussi, Mellisa Kirby, Cameron Klok, Amanda Lee Kremmos, Contantinos Lyndon, Karl Matyus, Robert Balasz Perrett, Neale Steers, Benjamin John Turner, Matthew John Wilson, Robert Peter Thursday, February 5 Aldridge, Jessie Alvarez Gonzalez, Maria Antonello, Alex Baker, Kye Bell, James Owen Bond, Jason Borham, Andrew William Castro, Terrence Craig Chen, Shengquan Chilcott, Cameron Colverd, Ryan Cooper, Kieran Crawford, Adam Crisfield Wilson, Rebecca Delahunty, Shaun Dennison, Jayde Lee Densworth, Renata Fackle, Christopher Francis, Youssef Hayes, Terry Ronald Ismail, Deniz Keamy-Quirk, Caleb Krake, Peter Lippert, Chantelle Macpherson, Kaleb John Mcalpine, Shania Mcgowan, Riley Mcmullan, Timothy Raymond Mcnally, Sharna Meehan, Ronald Mowbray, Adam Charles Moyes, Culley Muller, Grace Ogilvie, Bryce Pearse, Chantelle

Prowse, Megan Rowbottom, Tahlia Ruscoe, Anthony Sanchez, Andre Shand, Shannon Brooke

Smith, Colin Edward Sparkes, Matthew Stocks, William Frederick Sutton, Brodee Tubecki, John

Wilson, Rebecca Crisfield Wood, John Trevor Wood, Luke Matthew Friday, February 6

Board, Jeffrey Maxwell Bunton, Brandon Ciantar, Marko

Duncan, Matthew

Ettia, Joseph Manfred Godfrey, Mathew Smith, Justin Monday, February 9

Hore, Andrew

Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, February 4

Ali, Faisal

Bergin, Simon

Boyle, Ian Craig

Christopher, Sean Patrick Damaskopoulos, Andrew Dunning, Nathan John Garg, Kanish

Goates, Jennifer

Jacobs, George Victor Kagita, Rajarshi

Kemp, Steven Douglas Kirk, Christopher Lim Ka Lan, Jimmy Meadows, Daniel Marc Montgomery, Kelvin Muhammad, Khan

Nelson, Oscar Pilcher, Aaron

Pugh-Mundy, Sarina-Lee Saunders, Scott Raymomd Sharpe, Rhys

Thomas, Tyler Brayden

Torab, Kamyar

■ South Morang’s Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre Performance Program has been released for 2026.

The Victorian State Ballet will follow up their sell-out 2025 performance with their interpretation of the BeautyandtheBeast fairy tale.

The program also includes two nights of musical performances through the Next Verse program, showcasing talented community artists. Crescendo Screen Classics offers the perfect outing for lovers of classical music and the magic of film.

The program includes:

■ The Melbourne Comedy Showcase

■ Bobby Fox

■ Wendy Stapleton

■ Trash with a Porpoise

■ Splash Test Dummies

■ Annual Art Exhibition

■ Silvie Paladino

■ Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

■ School Holiday Program

■ Spike the Echidna

■ The Farmy Farm

■ Gina Hogan

■ Wurundjeri Week

■ Melissa Langton and Mark Jones

■ The Wobbly Wallaby

■ Rhonda Burchmore

■ Women of Wit

■ Lucy Durack Christmas Show

Cenotaph defaced

■ Nillumbik Council says that it is We are “extremely disappointed” to confirm that the local cenotaph in Eltham was deliberately defaced with paint.

“The cenotaph is a place of deep significance for our community, serving as a permanent tribute to those who served and sacrificed for our country,” said a nillumbik Council representative.

“Acts of vandalism against such a site are deeply disrespectful and distressing to veterans, their families, and the wider community.

“Arrangements have been made for the cenotaph to be cleaned as a matter of urgency, and we are working to ensure it is restored to its proper condition as quickly as possible.

“We condemn this act in the strongest possible terms and encourage anyone with information that may assist in identifying those responsible to contact police,” the Council representative said.

77 shortlisted

■ From a total of 1126 submissions, 77 entries have been shortlisted for the 2026 Nillumbik Prize for Contemporary Writing

The biennial prize is open nationally and invites short stories of up to 2500 words and poems up to 60 lines. Theme for the 2026 prize was Echoes

Entries were invited in youth, open, and local categories for both short stories and poetry.

Nillumbik Mayor Cr Naomi Joiner said the overwhelming response from writers across Australia reflects the esteem associated with the prize.

“Nillumbik has a long and proud history of supporting Australian writers and valuing the contribution of artists both local and national,” Cr Joiner said.

“My congratulations go to all those on the shortlist. The quantity and quality of entries was incredible and being shortlisted is no mean feat,” she said.

The Prize evolved from the Alan Marshall Short Story Award and Nillumbik Ekphrasis Poetry Award to become a highly regarded biennial writing prize. It is delivered in partnership with Writers Victoria and Yarra Plenty Regional Library.

Entries deemed to be the best work in each genre under each category will receive a monetary prize plus publication in the NPCW anthology. Category winners will be announced and the anthology launched at a public event in May.

Thanks have gone to the judges of the 2026 Prize: Bebe Oliver, Jen Webb, Julia Prendergast and Raeden Richardson

Youth Hub closer

■ The City of Whittlesea is one step closer to the establishment of a Youth Hub, with Council in the process of developing a business case to assess potential sites. Youth Hubs are dedicated community spaces that provide young people with a safe, informal and welcoming place to connect.

VALE ANTHONY THOMAS McCARTHY

■ Love of family, community service and deep faith were some of the themes at the Mass of Thanksgiving for Anthony Thomas McCarthy at Sacred Heart Church, Yea.

Fr Jose Mathew was celebrant, assisted by Fr Des Welladsen.

Anthony, born on November 5, 1929, passed away at Rosebank, Yea, on December 4.

He was husband of Carmel (edc.), father of anthony, Kieran, Angela, Dominic (dec,.), Matthew and Joseph.

He was father-in-law of Janice, Maurie, Pina, Helen (dec.) and Kath.

He was grandfather of Cathryn, Louise, Isbale,. Kylah, Kaeden, Kelsey, Jessica, Clare, Daniel, Alannah and Tess. He was greaty grandfather of Asher and Sidney.

Anthony’s farming life at Strath Creek was remembered, as was his civic service as a former Councillor of the Shire of Yea, his active participation in the Sacred Heart Parish, and his time as a Country Fire Authority volunteer.

Anthony and Carmel had long assisted the debutantes each year in Yea. Anthony had also been an early member of the Rotary Club of Yea.

The Mass on December 16, was followed by a burial service, with arrangements in the hands of McCormack Funerals.

Lighting of the Pascal Candle was performed by Joe McCarthy; placing of the pall was the responsibility of Lyn Comer, Janice, Pina and Kath M cCarthy.

Life symbols included the Clo-

Eltham

The microphone was a nod to his days as Ring Announcer for events such as the Yea Show and the Strath Creek Sports. Anthony had been a former President of the Yea Bowls Club.

The eulogy was delievred by Matt and Cathryn McCarthy. First reading was delivered by Angela Finn.

Jessica and Alannah played an important role with the Responsorial Psalm, and Prayers of the Faithful were led by Clare, Kylah and Kieran McCarthy.

Literugy duties were in the hands of Michaela and Louise McCarthy.

Pictured at the City of Whittlesea Citizenship Ceremony are (from left)

Cr Martin Taylor, State Opposition Leader Jess Wilson, Scullin MHR Andrew Giles and Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell. More than 300 more than 300 residents today became Australian citizens. “I was struck by the calibre, character, and warmth of the people who choose Whittlesea as their home,” said Cr Taylor. “To all of our new citizens, congratulations and welcome. You now form part of the living story of the City of Whittlesea. Our city is better, stronger, and more vibrant because you are here.” Photo: Facebook. ● ● ● ● Anthony McCarthy haune rand, a photo, a CFA medal, a microphone, poetry and music, and a lawn bowls memory.

Mourners gathered afterwards at Yea Bowls Club.

What Local People Are Doing

Fawcett

Fleur’s 51 years of service

● Fleur Long with nursing colleague Toby Pontifex

■ A 51-year association with the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital came to a close as nurse Fleur Long retired last month.

Fleur, of Eltham, trained in 1975, starting immediately at the RVE&EH, later to specialise in the clinics for eyes, ears and noses.

During the 1985-1994 period, whilst living at Murrindindi, Flowerdale and Yea, Fleur worked at Rosebank Extended Care Centre, Yea.

Fleur’s time in Yea included community service connections with organisations including Rotary, Yea Water Tigers Amateur Swimming Club, Guides and Yea Junior Football Club.

Fleur resumed her connection with the Eye and Ear Hospital in 1994. An event with her work colleagues was held at the Richmond Club Hotel last month.

Sam I Am

● ● Sam Hicks

■ A good word for ... Sam Hicks, President of the Fawcett Hall (formal name: Fawcett Mechanics Institute Reserve Committee of Management).

Sam and her team, plus their ‘Fawcett Angels’, have organised an ongoing supply of necessary items for locals.

Sam has provided a running commentary on social media, including her own evacuation to Healesville at the peak of the Longwood fires, including stories of how she watched (by remote vision) her husband’s efforts to fight the fires.

Whittlesea

Feed run

■ Whittlesea district farmers and carriers have shown their generosity with fodder donations delivered direct to where it is needed. The Whittlesea Agricultural Society will continue this community spirit by organising a run of feed and supplies into affected areas.

Seymour

Lachlan leads SDCA team

■ The Seymour District Cricket Association rep team will be captained by Lachlan Watts of Tallarook, and coached by Cam Armstrong of Yea.

The team will play Emu Valley Emu Valley at Chittick Park on Sunday (Feb. 8).

The squad comprises Xavier Arandt (Tallarook), Dan Bergowicz (Seymour), Andrew Butterworth (Yea), Charlies Davies (Puckapunyal), Lachlan Drummond (Seymour), Cam Evans (Seymour), Ciaran Fountain (Puckapunyal), Leigh Irving (Tallarook), Blake MunariO'Dwyer (Tallarook), Josh Rudge (Tallarook), Lachlan Watts (Tallarook) and Kal Winnell (Tallarook).

Bushfire Region

Jeff’s smile keeps glowing

● ● ● ● Jeffrey Swain

■ Highlands area identity Jeffrey Swain is the picture of resilience after the fires. The cheerful Yea-Kinglake RSL Sub-Branch identity sent us this photo, saying that his Army mates chided him after seeing this picture at the ruins of his home front door: “Try the other key”, “Is it for the back door?”, “Get in through the window ...” and “Santa won't have a problem next Christmas”.

Jeff added a note, asking us to delete his landline number: “Not only is no-one home but there is no device on the wire!”

Marysville

Norman, Lions deliver hay

■ Marysville Lions Club Hay Chairman Norman Fiske and fellow members have delivered 248 bales of hay to smallc hobby farms and to large farms.

“This hay has all been donated, no Government contribution,” said a Club representative.

Some of the hay was organised by Graham Cockerell of Need for Feed. It was delivered to the Alexandra depot organised by Andrew Embling and the Alexandra Events team.

NORTHCOTE

Crash investigation

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

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

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

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

GREENSBOROUGH

Aiden missing

■ Police have been searching for missing man Aiden

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

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

ALLEGED FRAUD: ARREST AT TOORAK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HARCOURT

Statewide

Tragic outcome

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

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

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

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

KEILOR EAST Scrub fire battle

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

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

Victoria Police were on scene to assist with operations.

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

The incident is deemed suspicious.

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

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

Firefighters arrived on scene within seven minutes to find a grass and scrub fire approximately 1.5 kilometre x 1 kilometre spreading toward the Western Ring Road

VicRoads closed the Geelong bound lane of the Western Ring Road between Sunshine Avenue and Keilor Park Drive Crews, assisted by CFA , scalated the response and are currently making entry to the fire to extinguish it.

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

Council Briefs

Coptic prayer

■ The prayer at the latest meeting of Nillumbik Shire Council was read by by Father Stephen Mankarious from St Macarius Coptic Orthodox Church, Yarrambat

Mural refreshed

■ The iconic mural of Hayley Wilson at Mansfield Sports Complex is being refreshed. She is about to be joined by a squad of fellow sporting superstars from Mansfield Shire.

Mansfield Shire Council wants to create a ‘Sporting Wall of Fame’ that celebrates the many achievements of the local athletes who have put municipality on the sporting map over the years.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie wants to see the community get behind their favourite local sporting talents and nominate them for a place in the updated mural.

Sporting grant

■ Diamond Creek Primary School ‘Spirit of Diamond Creek’ Energy Breakthrough team has received a $500 from Nillumbik Shire Council for being selected to participate at the Energy Breakthrough event in Maryborough.

Graytown meeting

■ Strathbogie Mayor Cr Scott Jeffery says that one of his first official duties as Mayor was meeting community members at the Cuppa With a Councillor session at Graytown

He was accompanied by Cr Fiona Stevens. About 20 community members at down at the Graytown Community Centre

They discussed a range of topics including overhanging trees and roadside vegetation, rural and residential land use and the Graytown Community Centre Facility Management Agreement

Affordable housing

■ The supply of affordable housing in the City of Whittlesea is falling short of growing demand, Councillors have been told.

“In 2025, around 5173 households, 6.1 per cent of all households in the municipality, are estimated to need affordable housing.

“By 2041, that number is expected to rise to 8942 households, or 8.1 per cent. Without decisive action, this shortage will continue to put pressure on public services, disadvantaging communities, and leaving vulnerable residents with limited secure housing options,” the report said.

Eltham special rate

■ The Eltham Town Activity Centre Special Rate Levy will raise an annual value of $143,000, to be used for the purpose of defraying marketing, promotion and other incidental expenses associated with the encouragement of commerce in the Eltham Town Activity Centre

Awards to Carlson

■ Strathbogie Mayor Cr Scott Jeffery has presented Cr Greg Carlson with two Victorian Councillor Service Awards: Ten Years of Service and Mayor Emeritus.

“The Municipal Association of Victoria provides these two Councillor Service Awards, recognising the contribution that councillors make to their communities.

“Cr Carlson has held various leadership roles over more than 14 years as a Councillor, serving across three Councils between 1990 and 2008.

“And of course he returned as a councillor when he was elected to Strathbogie 12 months ago.

“His impressive resume includes four terms as Mayor. I would like to thank Cr Carlson for his dedication to his communities, and personally for the friendship, wisdom and advice he has generously shared with me over the past year.”

And he responded

■ Cr Carlson responded to the awards, saying: “There's less crazy people in the Council Chambers now I find which is pleasing, and I can cast an eye in the gallery there and I'm sure there's a few people be able to identify with my comments. Nevertheless, it's a very challenging position because we are a creature of State Government.”

Local News

Shire issues ‘call to action’

■ Murrindindi Council is calling on all levels of government to work in close partnership with the Shire and fire-affected communities.

The Council wants to ensure that the recovery design is locally informed, co-ordinated and sustained over the long term.

At a special meeting held on January 21, Murrindindi Shire Council formally acknowledged the significant and far-reaching impacts of the January bushfires, including the loss of homes, livelihoods, livestock, wildlife, local business activity and tourism, as well as prolonged community isolation.

The Council expressed its deep sadness at the loss of Murrindindi resident Maxwell Hobson, extending condolences to his family, friends and the Terip Terip community.

Thde Council recognised what it called “the remarkable resilience and care shown by local communities”.

It thanked those who have contributed to the Murrindindi Disaster Fund or provided goods, services, labour, equipment and other support.

“Extraordinary efforts by emergency services, volunteers and partner agencies were also acknowledged, with Council reaffirming its commitment to stand alongside the community throughout the long recovery ahead.

The Council passed an urgent motion call-

ing for State and Federal Governments to continue working in genuine partnership with Council, recognising Council’s role as the designated recovery lead and the importance of community-led, locally informed decisionmaking.

It called for explicit priority and targeted support for the recovery of the agricultural sector and local economy, acknowledging the essential role of farming, small business and tourism for the long-term resilience of the Shire

It asked for recognition and encouragement of ongoing public support, including financial donations, material aid, volunteer labour and skilled assistance - support that remains vital for the long recovery ahead.

Praise for UGFM Radio

■ Cr Sandice McAulay has taken time to congratulate UGFM Radio Murrindindi volunteers for their coverage of the fires.

“I would like to acknowledge UGFM for its critical role as the local emergency broadcaster, providing timely, trusted information to our community when it needed it most,” Cr McAulay said.

“I encourage residents and visitors alike to monitor local radio updates.

“I remind the community to stay informed through UGFM as the local emergency broadcaster, monitor local conditions, and use the Vic Emergency app, particularly during periods of heightened fire risk and concerning weather conditions.

“I stand with our community during this long road to recovery.”

Cr McAulay said that the Council continues to advocate to State and Commonwealth Governments for sustained recovery assistance.

‘Heart goes out to every community’

■ Cr Paul Hildebrand has told Murrindindi Councillors that his heart goes out to every community impacted by thedevastating fire event.

Thoughts are with “those who have lost not only their homes, shearing sheds, work sheds, hay sheds, machinery and other outbuildings, but also their livelihoods,” Cr Hildebrand said.

“The loss of livestock, beehives, vineyards, fences, hay, silage and pasture represents years and in many cases generations of hard work.

“For our commercial farmers, the task of rebuilding and replacing fencing alone will cost millions of dollars, before even considering the time it takes to restore pasture and safely restock.

“This impact does not stop at the farm gate. The loss of production and income also affects our local contractors, suppliers and small businesses who rely on a strong farming sector to survive.

“I would like to sincerely thank the CFA, Forest Fire Management Victoria and the many private slip units whose tireless and selfless efforts during those harrowing days helped protect lives, properties and communities.

“The commitment shown by firefighters, many of whom left their own families, farms and businesses to protect others was extraordinary. During the height of the fires, myself and fellow Councillor Cr Gallagher were on the trucks alongside our firefighters, because this is what community is about: standing shoulder to shoulder and doing whatever is needed.”

2000 properties

■ The City of Whittlesea owns more than 2000 properties and manages a significant portfolio of buildings, land and infrastructure across the municipality, Councillors have been told.

‘Immense loss’

■ Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said that the community has endured immense loss.

“We stand with those who are grieving, and we honour the life of Maxwell Hobson

“Recovery must be community-led, locally informed and strongly supported by all levels of government. This will be a long journey, but we will walk it together.

“Our community is feeling the impact of these devastating bushfires, and we are determined to remove every possible barrier to a fast and effective recovery.

“Recovery on this scale requires rapid action, and these changes allow us to engage the right services at the right time, and our priority is supporting impacted residents, restoring essential infrastructure, and helping our towns get back on their feet,” Cr Gallagher said.

Well done, Eagles

■ Cr Grant Brooker of Nillumbik Council has praised the Diamond Valley Basketball Association which was announced Association of the year, and their Chief Executive Officer Pat Di Lizio, Administrator of the year.

“We wanted to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of the Diamond Valley Basketball Association named the association of the year for 2025,” Cr Brooker said.

“DVBA, they certainly don’t seek recognition, but they most definitely have earned it, so I would say that this honour reflects the dedication and passion of their community.

“The volunteers, board members, referees, coaches, clubs, players, parents, staff, and sponsors whose commitment has built one of Victoria’s leading sporting associations.

“You must always refer to the metrics with the DVBA because 9943 participants, almost 10,000. 4852 junior domestic players, 1976 senior domestic, 500 junior representative, 80 senior representative, 2500 community program participants

“They have a diverse base participation made up at 66 per cent boys and 34 per cent girls, and in senior competitions 83 per cent men and 17 per cent women.

“The recognition comes as the association approaches 50th anniversary in 2026 and that is also 50 years since the original Diamond Valley Sports Stadium commenced, it’s a completely different looking beast now.

“But a milestone that celebrates five decades of growth, resilience and community connection

“It marks significant progress of the past five years during which the board has strengthened the organisation and honoured its history.

“I also want to congratulate Pat Di Lizio, awarded administrator of the year whose leadership and commitment has made him serve at every layer of the DVBA from grass rootstoNBL1 andtransformedthewaytheyoperate.

Congratulations to everyone who contributes to the spirit of the Diamond Valley Basketball Association,” Cr Brooker said.

Archibalds at Shepp

■ Shepparton Art Museum has thrilled to announced that it will host the Archibald Prize 2026, Australia’s most prestigious portraiture exhibition and one of the country’s most beloved annual art events, from September 5-November 1.

SAM will be the only Victorian venue on the national tour and the first stop after the exhibition closes at the Art Gallery of New South Wales

‘Many in tears’

■ Murrindindi’s Cr Sue Carpenter said that she joined joined Yea residents to cheer a large convoy of well over 100 trucks, utes, trailers and semis as they drove through Yea with loads of donated hay enroute from Seville to Longwood to provide for the stock without food.

“For 20 minutes we waved flags, clapped and cheered, and many of us were in tears seeing this act of generosity.”

Local People: Anthony Thomas McCarthy

Whimsical, hard-working and good-humoured

Anthony Thomas McCarthy

Born November 5, 1929. Died December 4, 2025.

Aged 96 years.

Funeral at Sacred Heart Church, Yea. Deecmeber 16, 2025

Eulogy by Matthew McCarthy, 4 th son of Anthony.

★

Dad sometimes said: “The young may die but the old must die”.

My brother Kieran once aptly described Dad as A Man of Many Colours

I cannot hope to capture all the shades and colours of our Dad today, but hopefully I can provide a glimpse to our whimsical, hardworking and good-humoured father.

★

Anthony Thomas McCarthy was born on November 5, 1929, at the original Yea Hospital

It was Melbourne Cup Day and the winner that day was a horse called Night March

It would make a lovely story that due to this Dad had a life-long affinity for racing, horses or betting.

As it happens, he had none of these and often declared betting on the horses ‘a mug’s game.’

However perhaps not in earshot of our mum Carmel , who was known to have a regular flutter on the G’s G’s.

Anthony was the youngest of five children born to Con and Kit McCarthy. His siblings were Jose, Mick, Carmel and Marie

The family was raised on the property at Dairy Creek, Homewood called ‘Samaria’.

Dad attended primary school mainly at the Homewood State School during the Depression years. Times were tough and the prospect of war was looming.

However, Dad spoke fondly of his time at the Homewood school where he made lifelong friends and did well academically.

Dad had a great intellect, including a sharp ability for mental arithmetic, He devoured crosswords and was just about unbeatable at Scrabble

Up until just a few months ago, Dad would love to sit and work out the nine letter word or do the wordle on his I-Pad.

Dad’s secondary school education was at St Bede’s College in Mentone, Melbourne , boarding there from Grade 9 and finished with his Leaving Certificate in 1945 as the Second World War ended.

The Brothers and teachers at the school left a lasting positive impact on Dad

Dad was keen on going to University to do Veterinary Science, however, at that time, returned soldiers were given priority entry to University, opportunity faded.

Dad’s father convinced him to come back onto the farm at Homewood and grow wool and fat lambs.

Dad’s formative years in farming were dominated by the great rabbit plague.

Dad would often speak of seeing an entire hillside ‘moving’ with thousands of rabbits.

He would say that he wasted his youth ‘digging out rabbits’. And rabbit hunting was also the cause of him being accidentally shot in the leg by a shotgun by his cousin Jack.

Unexpected End of Formula Carmel and Marriage

It is impossible to speak about Dad without speaking about our Mum Dad was asked to be a Debutante partner by a young lady from Flowerdale , called Carmel Cunningham, and what resulted was a love story that would last over 70 years.

Anthony and Carmel married in this church in May 1952, and what followed was a loving partnership that stood the test of time until Mum’s passing in early 2022.

Dad was a devoted husband and lavished praise on Mum both privately and publicly at every opportunity.

He would recognise her and gave her the credit for all their achievements as a couple, setting a powerful example.

Mum and Dad moved into their newly built home on King Parrot Creek Rd, New Year’s Eve December 31, 1952. The house was un-finished, and they had virtually no furniture.

They set about making a home which was to become the centre of their lives and that of their six children: Anthony (Jnr), Kieran, Angela, Dominic, Matthew and Joseph, for the next 65 years.

Initially there was no electricity and no telephone. It was 10 years before the power came to the valley bringing electricity and Dad had to build and maintain his own telephone line to the house to get the phone connected.

These days it is hard to believebut they were stoic and inventive.

The roles that Mum and Dad took on the farm were somewhat unconventional for the times.

Dad encouraged Mum to be actively involved in farm decision making and welcomed her input.

On the other hand, Dad also pitched in domestically and was known to whack a stew together for dinner to allow Mum to spend time in her beloved garden. They were a formidable team.

Dad’s love and devotion for Mum was to the very end of her life. In her final 12 months when she was in ill health, every single day, often twice a day, Dad walked up to the Hospital to sit and chat with Mum or just sit. True Love needs no words.

Work ethic

Dad had a solid work ethic and he applied this in building the pro-

ductivity of the farm. Dad never shirked a hard day’s work. Always an early riser, he would be up and about, usually in a cheerful mood and stirring any troops he had available to help.

Dad always finished what he started even in the pouring rain,

“It’s just an Irish mist,” he would say, or when encouraging us to dig a post hole through rock hard ground with a crowbar and shovel, he would use another favourite “OK once more with feeling”.

Get out of bed and get going –was another of Dad’s deeply held principles.

Dad never tolerated sleeping in occurring at ‘Clohaune’. No matter what events had occurred the night before, you could guarantee that Dad would bang at the bedroom door and declare with his booming voice. “The porridge is ready”.

The other more subtle tactic was to leave the kitchen door open with the radio blaring the ABC

As a resourceful and frugal farmer, Dad had a thousand uses for No 8 fencing wire, using this trick to ‘keep the show on the road’ as John Williamson sings in his song TrueBlue

Being a child of the Depression, Dad would say “Nothing is cheap if you don’t need it”.

Dad was an honest and diligent farming neighbour, always particular about livestock mix ups or boundary issues, and went the extra yard to correct it.

He was on good terms with all his neighbours. He was accomplished at all aspects of animal husbandry and could tell quickly if there was a problem with livestock etc

Pragmatic and Realistic

Dad saw the world through the eyes of a realist stating that things need to be dealt with as they arenot how you wished them to be.

Mum would often say Dad was like the character ‘Hanrahan’ in John O’Brien’s poem, saying we would “all be ruined”.

But I think Dad was being a real-

Dad eventually returned to full time farming in the early 90s. Mum and Dad then worked the farm side by side for a few decades. Any visiting children, relatives or friends were conscripted to help and were usually happy to oblige.

An important addition to the farm in later years was Nick Blay, who worked alongside Dad who was stoked to have a trusted mentee, and I know that Nick appreciated his mentor.

Mum and Dad reluctantly retired from full time farming in their late 80’s and took up residence at 5 Loan St, Yea Community and Sport

Dad had a passion for community service. He could not help himself. He was elected to various voluntary community leadership roles. Just to name a few – _

■ Councillor on the former Shire of Yea,

■ Yea Parish Council

■ Primary and Secondary School Councils.

■ CFA Captain at Strath Creek and later a Deputy Group Officer.

Dad always avoided petty politics that can derail volunteer organisations.

He emphasised focussing on showing up on time and pitching in – not being a passenger.

Dad was highly regarded and respected in the community and we were all enormously proud of him.

ist about the situation, and yes sometimes he would describe the worse-case scenario, but he was being pragmatic.

I suspect as a result of being a child of the Depression, Dad was never a fan of the banks.

He used to call his bank, Westpac – ‘Wolf Pack’.

We also recall Dad always having a calmness about him when faced with calamity.

In a crisis such as bush fire or flood he had a calm, level head and would call the shots.

His Irish heritage was something Dad was very proud of and he educated us about the struggles our ancestors faced in their homeland and in early Australia

To put this into perspective it was only our Great Grandfather Daniel McCarthy who escaped Ireland in the wake of the potato famine.

When faced with big inflation hits and increases in costs in the mid1970s, Dad took a job off farm as a Tour Guide at the Fisheries and Wildlife at Snobs Creek Fish Hatchery near Eildon.

Dad excelled at the job with his story telling and public speaking skills coming to the fore.

His public service stint finished with an administration job with the Housing Commission in Seymour which was much more convenient. These toils resulted in the family farm being retained.

Happiness and Optimism

Dad was quick to point out the funny side of even the most stressful situations.

He loved comedians such as Dave Allan, John Cleese and the late John Clarke ( Dave Allan poked fun at the Catholic Church a bit, but that was tolerated because he was Irish).

It didn’t take much to get a smile or laugh out of Dad , even when things were at their lowest.

He would quote Henry Lawson’s The Ballad of the Drover with “We’ve breasted bigger rivers when floods were at their height”.

Dad’s commitment to lawn bowls was next level. He played at the Yea Bowls Club and in his typical manner he not only played the game well, but invested a huge amount of time in the running of the club as president, secretary, coach and umpire, and was invested as a Life member of the Club.

He was instrumental in the building of the new club rooms and co-authored a book on the history of the Yea Bowls Club Dad would often say to us: “You should take up bowls. It’s a great game. You will get a lifetime of enjoyment out of it.”

Followed closely by “Don’t leave it too late - Bowls is a game that old people can play but young people play better.”

His legacy is that there are currently four avid, and I would say addicted, bowlers in our immediate family.

Whimsical /musical Dad also had a whimsical and cheerful disposition.

All our earliest memories of Dad involve him singing, yodelling or reciting poetry as we drove around the paddocks in the old Land Rover

He had a massive repertoire of songs, poems and stories. He was able to recite many poems by memory well into his old age and even in the last few months he would be known to come out with versesthatwererelevanttothemoment.

John O’Brien, Banjo Paterson and Henry Lawson were his most quoted poets and he was often requested to recite one or two at public and private events.

He had a unique talent. He would retell stories and happenings from his life to us, usually with a comedic twist. Any situation could spark a relevant anecdote.

Family members and characters from Homewood, Strath Creek and Yea , some who were long dead, came to life.

Dad was also more musical than some people probably know. He could pick out a tune on the piano or harmonica. He purchased a drum kit and a saxophone in his early 30’s - and Kieran recalls hearing bad saxophone coming out of the morning fog as Dad rounded up the house cows for milking.

Local People: Anthony Thomas McCarthy

● ● Continued From Previous Page

We are sending Dad off today with a couple of selections from his eclectic record collection that included Hank Williams , the Beatles, the Seekers and Dean Martin Faith

I can’t finish today without speaking of Dad’s steadfast commitment to his Christian faith

He had a great appreciation of the Eucharist and he and Mum attended weekly Mass mostly in this church their whole lives.

Dad was progressive and relished any modernising of the liturgy and other aspects of Church life.

He befriended many of the Parish Priests who were stationed here in Yea and they were often beneficiaries of Mum and Dad’s hospitality.

Suffice to say that faith was not restricted to Church for Dad , he applied the gospel values in all aspects of his life.

Conclusion

Dad’s passing heralds the ending of a by-gone era. The last of his family generation and the closing of a chapter, a break in the link to a time when things were very different, times were harder, simpler, and community was everything.

Dad was steadfast in his values, fun to be around and looked out for his family and community.

His whole long life was a lesson on how to live with integrity and humility.

So we say; thank and bless you Dad – we will always be proud of you and thankful to have had a father of your calibre.

You are going to be missed enormously in so many ways.

However, as you often said “Such is Life”.

Now get a move along as Mum is waiting for you at the gate to go and check those ewes and lambs.

57 years. Since 1969.

Local Briefs

Tulla grass fire

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

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

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

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

There was no fire impingement of the factory area.

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

Visa offences

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

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

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

The man was charged with:

■ Eight counts of fail to maintain electronic monitoring device,

■ One count of obstruction of Commonwealth public official,

■ One count of possess cannabis,

■ Two counts of contravene conduct condition of bail; and

■ Eight counts of commit indictable offence whilst on bail.

Suspicious blaze

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driver blew .286

■ Police have nabbed a drink driver almost six times over the limit in Diggers Rest Officers initially detected a 40-yearold driver allegedly travelling at 115-kmh in a 100-km/hr zone along Coimadai Rd

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026

WOMAN CHARGED AFTER WHITTLESEA FATALITY

● ● One of the vehicles in the Grants Rd fatal collision. Photo: 7News.

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

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

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

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

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

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

She was to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court

POLICE DETECT 5500 OFFENCES DURING BLITZ

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

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

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

Notable drink driving detections included:

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

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

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

– twice the legal limit

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

A further 154 drug driving

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

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

The total 5518 offences detected during Operation Amity included:

Police Briefs

Mono no-no

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

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

Officers pulled over the motorcycle.

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

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

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

Cran. West death

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision in Cranbourne West

Emergency services responded to reports of a collision between a vehicle and a motorcycle on Evans Rd CPR was performed on the yet-to-be formally identified rider, who died at the scene.

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

Sexual assault

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

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

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

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

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

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

■ 2288 speeding offences

■ 487 unregistered vehicles

■ 403 disqualified/suspended and unlicenced drivers

■ 363 disobey signs/signals

■ 223 mobile phone offences

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

■ 154 drug driving offences from 2441 roadside drug tests

■ 84 seatbelt offences; and

■ 81 vehicle impoundments

Nationwide

PERTH

Chronic homelessness

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

Supportive Housing Needs Assessment

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

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

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

CANBERRA

New book nods locals

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

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

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

TORTURE AND MURDER:

4th MAN CHARGED

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

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

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

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

Brisbane Sun

SYDNEY

Threatening calls: charges against man

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

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

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

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

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

Sydney Mail

VICTOR HARBOR

Serious assault

■ A man has been arrested after a serious

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

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

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

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

Both men were known to each other.

Adelaide Sun

LAUNCESTON

Woman on attempted murder charge

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

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

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

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

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

GOLD COAST

Vic. woman nicked

■ A Victorian woman was scheduled to appear in Southport Magistrates’ Court, charged with allegedly breaching a secure restricted area at Gold Coast Airport

She allegedly attempted to enter a restricted airside area at a boarding gate, without a boarding pass.

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

Melbourne Observer

Across Australia

ALICE SPRINGS

Tourist numbers down

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

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

Darwin Observer

PERTH

Illicit cash at airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perth Observer MELBOURNE

42kg illicit drugs smuggle attempt

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

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

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

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

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

The matter was referred to the AFP for investigation.

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

The trio were each charged with:

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

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

Melbourne Observer

Freemasons Victoria Community Relief Fundraiser

ARIES: (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 5.9.6.2

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.16.29.31.33

Pursue your ambitions with confidence success is likely. This could be an enjoyable and energised period where you feel driven to achieve your goals. A connection with an Aquarian could bring unexpected luck.

TAURUS: (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.1

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.15.26.30.11

Spend more time with those who lift your spirits. A new adventure may be just what you need, so take the opportunity. Try to stay calm, even if others around you are testing your patience.

GEMINI: (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.1

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.16.29.30.22

Social opportunities are on the rise and could introduce exciting new interests. Your schedule may get busier than usual, and interesting new acquaintances could enter your social circle.

CANCER: (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.15.26.39.8

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

LEO: (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 6.3.2.1

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.16.24.40.42

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

VIRGO: (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4.6.5.2

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.15.26.30.33

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

LIBRA: (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Fawn

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.26.30.39.33

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

SCORPIO: (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.26.42.39.8

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

SAGITTARIUS: (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 8.6.2.1

Lotto Numbers: 8.12.29.34.40.11

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

CAPRICORN: (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1.3.6.9

Lotto Numbers: 1.13.19.5.44.8

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

AQUARIUS: (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5.6.2.5

Lotto Numbers: 5.12.29.7.44.1

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

PISCES: (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 4.6.2.3

Lotto Numbers: 4.12.25.29.37.9

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

JOHN’S POPS WERE TOPS

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

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

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

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

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

Throughout the renditions, support was given by the backing group of Jacinta Caurana, Michaela Jayde and a very emotive and physical performer in Anthony Monea . As well as the sing-along by the audience, Silvie randomly picked a number of audience members to come up to the stage and help her to perform The Twelve Day of Christmas.

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

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

A truly celebratory performance

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

Wind in the Willows

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review by Lucy Nicolson

Piper’s Playhouse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Venue: Crown Casino, 8 Whiteman St Southbank.

Bookings: crownmelbourne.com.au Nudity, adult content Review by Sherryn Danaher

75 Years Ago

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

Gravest strike

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

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

Electricity cuts

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

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

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

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

Hangings to stop?

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

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

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

Drunken driver

Kilmore, Friday

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

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

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

Songs of Bulbul

● ● ● ● British-Indian dancer and choreographer Aakash Odedra.

Photo: Kuldeep Goswami

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Performance Season: February 3-7

Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne

Bookings: artscentremelbourne. com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Love, Lies and What I Wore

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

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

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

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

A cast of women share stories that are deeply personal yet universally related. The multi-award-winning play debuted Off-Broadway in 2008

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

VALE PATSY KING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She is survived by her sister Valerie Logada.

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

● ● Music group Worlds Only.

Worlds Only

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

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

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

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

Event Date: February 13

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

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

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

Bookings: artshouse.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Drawing program

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

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

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

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

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

Bard’s Best Bits

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bek’s belated award

■ Musical theatre performer Bek Chapman was thrilled to be nominated for Best Supporting Performer in a Female Presenting Role by the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria , for her role as Magda in Beaumaris Theatre's production of Ladies in Black Unfortunately, Bek became ill and could not attend the special MTGV gala event held at Camberwell Grammar School

As it turned out, Bek Chapman was announced winner of the Best Supporting Performer in a Female Presenting Role award, so Ladies in Black director Debbie Keyt dashed up to the stage to accept the award on Bek's behalf.

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

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

Written on Stone

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

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

Lucy Ingram is a food and lifestyle journalist who has spent three years navigating the grief of losing her beloved husband, Charlie Due to her grief, her enthusiasm for writing about haute cuisine is as flat as an undercooked souffle so she seeks solace in a unique assignment blending community cooking with heartfelt remembrance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Julie Houghton

MUMA opening

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

Opening remarks will be made by Dr Emma Quilty , anthropologist and author of Witch Power: Hexing the Patriarchy with Feminist Magic, and Research Fellow at the Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Monash University 2.30pm — Artist and curator talks in the gallery with Paola Balla, Carla Cescon and Clare Milledge 3pm — Official opening with a performance by Karina Utomo, and critical tasseography coffee readings by Tina Stefanou Artists: Paola Balla (Wemba Wemba, Gunditjmara), Carla Cescon, Yin-Ju Chen, Mel Deerson, David Egan, Gail Mabo (Meriam), Naminapu MaymuruWhite (Ma?galili), Clare Milledge, Tracy Moffatt, Vali Myers, Rosaleen Norton, Leyla Stevens, Heather B. Swann, Suzanne Treister, Karina Utomo

LIVING IN THE PRESENCE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review by Mack Klesman (12 years old)

Teddy Bear’s Picnic

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

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

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

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

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

More Auditions

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

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

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

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

Cheryl Threadgold

Pirates of Penzance

■ Victorian Opera presents Gilbert and Sullivan's famous comic operetta The Pirates of Penzance until February 6 at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda Ben Mingay (the Pirate King) and Antoinette Halloran (the long-suffering Ruth) lead the high-seas jinks, joined by theatre veteran Richard Piper as the Major General, and rising stars Nicholas Jones and Nina Korbe as Frederic and Mabel, and Christopher Hillier as the Sergeant of Police.

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

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

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

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

Cheryl Threadgold

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

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

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

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

Review by Graeme McCoubrie

City Gallery

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

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

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

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

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

Shows

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auditions

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

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

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

Cheryl Threadgold

Bush Telegraph

Water in the pipeline

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

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

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

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

Wind farm action

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

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

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

Night works on Epping-Kilmore Rd

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

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

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

Residents and road users can expect:

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

■ A reduced speed limit of 40-kmh during works

■ Traffic management on site to assist drivers

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

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

Aquaculture job

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

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026

MAJOR UPGRADE AT WALLAN INTERCHANGE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Council to visit fireaffected properties

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

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

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

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

“Council’s assessment teams may include:

■ Building Surveyor

■ Environmental Health Officer

■ Arborist

■ Personal Support Officer

■ Administration Officer

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

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

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

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

■ Building safety and structural damage

■ Wastewater and drinking water systems

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

■ Dangerous or fire-affected trees

■ Personal and wellbeing support

■ Available recovery services and grants

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

Whiparound

Golf Club results

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

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

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

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

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

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

NTP (14th): Alan Pell

Club Award: Phil Armstrong ★ Round 6 - Gender Challenge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Murrindindi Masters - Marysville

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

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

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

Other excellent results included:

■ Andrew Bohn – Runner-up A Grade

■ Anthony La Grutta – Winner B Grade

■ Russell Wealands – Runner-up C Grade

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

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

Gambino.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review by Peter Murphy

Skank Sinatra

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

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

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

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

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

AUSTRALIAN OPEN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Presented at Theatre Works

Review by David McLean

Wizard of Oz

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtney Smyth commanded the stage as the Wicked Witch , and Elise Stevens was in sweet contrast as Glinda the Good Witch

Nice work from Mark Curran as the Emerald City Guard , and Cameron Sweatman

nailed portraying the authoritarian/cowardly Wizard

● ● Jane Montgomery Griffiths and Alec Gilbert in Australian Open.

Photo: Sarah Clarke.

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

The talented ensemble performed some great routines, with a standout performance from Sarah Cossey Glaubert

Congratulations to PLOS Musical Productions on another quality holiday show.

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

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Peter Pan: A Twinkle In Time

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

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

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

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

What’s making him all angsty?

He’s losing his Twink-ness.

A Twink is a young, slim, boyish-looking gay male, youthful and carefree, think Timotheé Chalamet or Troye Sivan Twink Death means losing that youthful aesthetic, a kind of social death, hence the existential dread over the “lost boy” of his youth.

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

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

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

Costume changes and songs add to the silliness.

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

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

Review by Kathryn

Keeble

Legends in Concert

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review by Sherryn Danaher

Blackpill: Redux

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

A young man Eli (played by Oliver Tapp ) is fired from his job due to inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague he met on a dating app.

Upset and confused by this and his lack of success with women romantically, he turns to the internet for advice. Thus begins a descent into a dark online underworld of misogynistic incels, the manosphere.

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

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

An ensemble of 12 young performers told the story. Performing in different roles, depicting the real or online world, they acted with admirable gusto.

In particular, Tapp’s central role was a strong performance which held the story together. Still, it was frustrating when, too often, conversations between characters could not be heard due to either poor voice projection or voices being swamped by the soundscape.

Responsibility for this failing rests in part with Hansen who directed as well as wrote the play. There were other production problems too such as the amplified distorted voices of actors wearing masks being difficult to understand. Even so, the use of masks was a potent dramatic device as was the dynamic choreography created by movement director Sian Quinn Dowler , ably assisted by dance captain Natasha Bowers Overall then, Blackpill: Redux was quite a mixed bag: some great performances and atmospherics the power of which, unfortunately, was undercut by staging problems and difficulties that, to be honest, should not exist in a professional production.

Review by Peter Murphy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Arcadians Rourke’s Reviews

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

Brian Taylor.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cheryl Threadgold

Theatre Works 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

Welcome to 2026

■ Here we are, back for 2026, and the year seems to be chaotic and eventful already.

Hopefully everyone is thinking positively and pushing ahead, shaping this year into something great.

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

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

Here’s what I saw over the break.

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

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

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

Dust Bunny (M). From the creator of the Hannibal TV series, Bryan Fuller’s feature film directorial debut is immense fun, with a wildly stylish design and atmosphere. Not all that deep, but is a really entertaining ride. Great cast includes Mads Mikkelsen and Sigourney Weaver.

Silent Night, Deadly Night (MA). Surprisingly inventive remake of the controversial but shoddy 1984 original, with a mix of genres that works well. From the director of the also unexpectedly good Wrong Turn remake.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026

Vale Maxwell Hobson

■ There has been an outpouring of grief with the death of Gobur farmer Maxwell Hobson, in his late 70s, in the Longwood fires.

Police found his remains in Yarck on Sunday, January 11.

Mr Hobson and his wife Julie owned a 101-hectare property in Terip Terip, near Euroa, where they bred commercial cattle. His remains were found just 100 metres from a vehicle after police officers accessed a fire-affected stretch off Yarck Rd at Gobur on the Sunday of the fires.

● ● More bushfire news, next pages

SHIRE TO SPEND EXTRA MILLIONS ON RECOVERY

■ Murrindindi Council’s civil works budget is being increased from $20 million to $25 million to address bushfire recovery issues.

Spending for tree works is being lifted from $500,000 to $3 million.

Murrindindi Shire Chief Executive Officer

Livia Bonazzi has temporarily suspended the Council’s Road Management Plan for three months.

“As the full impact of the fire event impact becomes clear, Council officers will assess which parts of the Plan can safely be reinstated and set timelines for reactivation,” said a report to Councillors.

“Our community has experienced profound loss, and we recognise the grief, exhaustion and uncertainty many people are feeling,” said Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher.

“At the same time, we have witnessed remarkable care, generosity and resilience across our towns. Council is working to ensure that no impacted resident, business or town is overlooked in the support being provided.”

“We are here to help - whether people need clear information, assisting people to navigate support services, or simply offering a place to sit, talk and have a cuppa. Council’s doors are open. We will continue walking alongside our community through this emergency and throughout the recovery ahead.”

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:

309 homes lost

■ Some 309 homes and 822 outbuildings have been lost in the Longwood fire. In Murrindindi Shire , 190 homes have been lost and 10 significantly damaged. There has also been damage to 519 other structures.

About The Phoenix

Need to communicate

■ ThePhoenixis a newspaper section designed to focus on information about bushfire recovery in the municipalities of Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Strathboie and surrounds.

It is planned that The Phoenix will appear in every issue of TheLocalPaper in 2026 in the Regional Edition, Mitchell Strathbogie Edition and the Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition. Fresh issues are produced weekly (digital online), and fortnightly (‘hard copy’, in print). ThePhoenix and TheLocalPaper are free, there is no cover price.

‘Renewed youth’

■ The Phoenix, in classical mythology, is a unique bird that lived for five or six centuries in the Arabian desert, after this time burning itself on a funeral pyre and rising from the ashes with renewed youth to live through another cycle.

Free advertising

■ A free advertising package worth up to $1720 is available to all businesses and people in the readership area.

■ Any local business in the bushfire region can access free advertising throughout 2026 in ThePhoenix.The offer is open to people in the municipalities of Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi, Nillumbik, Strathbogie, Whittlesea and Yarra Ranges (see below).

UP TO $1720 FREE ADVERTISING FOR EACH LOCAL BUSINESS

Every local business throughout the bushfire affected region qualifies for up to $1720 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.

● ● Yarck Hall is one of the recovery hubs where donated food and other items are available.

Photo: Yarck Hall/Facebook

Local Briefs

Open for business

■ The return of tourists at Yea, Alexandra, Eildon and Bonnie Doon is being welcomed, according to Deputy Incident Controller Stephen Keating. Those towns are all open for business.

“Stay informed, including about Total Fire Bans and emergency warnings. Camp responsibly.

“The Eildon National Park is open apart from the Fraser Block , as UT Creek Rd and Skyline Rd are closed to non-residents. The boat ramps at Fraser Block are also closed,” Mr Keating told a January 20 media conference.

Pool party postponed

■ The Eildon Free Community Pool Party orginially planned for January 25 has been postponed until March 8.

Farmers Market off

■ The Nagambie Tahbilk Farmers’ Market planned for the Sunday (Jan. 25) of the Australia Day weekend was cancelled due to forecast hot weather.

$100 mil. provided

■ The Federal and State Governments say they will deliver close to $100 million in additional support for the recovery of communities and businesses across Victoria devastated by bushfires.

■ $15 million is being provided to establish Community Recovery Officers and Recovery Hubs across bushfire affected areas. Theese are a one-stop shop for residents to access services and information from government and community organisations.

Dedicated Community Recovery Officers will work within councils to identify community needs, develop tailored programs, and provide on-the-ground support to help locals rebuild.

Councils will receive between $450,000 and $1.3 million to employ recovery staff and deliver local programs

Community organisations can apply for grants of up to $75,000 for locally led initiatives.

Concessional loans

■ $10 million in concessional loans is being provided to help primary producers recover from the bushfires.

Loans of up to $250,000 will be available for producers who have suffered significant damage to assets, while loans of up to $100,000 will support those experiencing a major loss of income.

Fawcett wish list

■ Bushfire recovery efforts at Fawcett Hall have produced a wish list of items.

Star pickets are the biggest calling. One farmer would appreciate 100 (or 10 packs of 10). Shovels, picks and axes came in and went out just as fast.

Electrolytes are a big calling too as our farmers are in the blackened paddocks putting in fences in this heat.

Trailers of goodies have been coming in. Some other ‘wish list’ items have been cash funds, ag fittings, appliances, chain saws, fencing, a metal detector, and a tow rope or chain.

Tree spend rises to $15 mil.

■ The January Longwood bushfire has caused major damage to trees across the Murrindindi Shire, including along roads and in other public areas, a special meeting of Murrindindi Council has been told.

“The State Government is responsible for clearing and opening the main arterial roads. However, once these roads are cleared, Council will be expected to quickly clear trees from municipal roads so they can be reopened and residents, businesses can return and operate safely.

“To do this efficiently, Council plans to use the existing Tree and Weed Services Panel, which includes 18 approved contractors with set rates in place.

“This approach helps control costs, reduces unnecessary administration and supports a timely and coordinated response.

“Council has spent just over $3.2 million under the contract to date, which has a current maximum approved spend of $4.5 million. To meet the significant increase in required tree works following the bushfire, Council is being asked to approve an increase to the contract’s maximum spend, raising it from $4.5 million to $15 million, excluding GST.

“This decision supports Council’s goals for transparent governance and aligns with its responsibilities under the EmergencyManage-

mentAct2013 to assist with relief and recovery across the municipality. It also ensures Council can mobilise contractors at the scale and pace required to safely reopen the road network,” said the report presented by Deputy

Tool Library starts

■ The Lions Club of Alexandra has launched an initiative to assist fire recovery efforts in the community.

The Alexandra Tool Library is is made possible through the support of Kinglake Lions Club and Lions Club of Marysville and District.

The Tool Library is accepting donations of new or used tools. Most tools will be given out to those in the community impacted by the fires. Some larger items will be loaned out as a community resource.

The Tool Library is located at the Lions Club of Alexandra in Lamont St For more information, please contact John Beale, 0427 595 318.

CFA fundraiser

■ The Murrindindi CFA Fundraising Gala is planned for 5.30pm on Saturday, March 28, at the Alexandra Football Club rooms. All funds will be shared between fire brigades in Murrindindi Shire. There will be a raffle and a silent auction. A two-course main meal and desserts will be available, as will canapes on arrival. There will be a bar to purchase beverages. Tickets are $60 each.

Free visits to tips

■ Murrindindi residents and property owners can dispose of bushfire-related waste free of charge at any Resource Recovery Centres up to May 12.

■ BlazeAid was given authority to access to the LongwoodRuffy Rd up to the Ruffy CFA. BlazeAid is volunteerbased organisation that works with families and individuals in rural Australia after natural disasters such as fires, cyclones, droughts and floods. BlazeAid’s purpose is to relieve the poverty, suffering, distress, misfortune, destitution or helplessness experienced by survivors of bushfires and other natural disasters through the help of volunteers.

Outage cash

■ Up to $16 million in financial assistance for households impacted by extended power outages. Eligible households who have been without power for seven or more days within a two-week period will receive $2380 per week for up to three weeks.

Blaze Aid springs into action Emergency water supplied

■ Goulburn Valley Water is providing Emergency Drinking Water Relief to communities impacted by the fires that are outside of its service area. This includes water fill points at Molesworth, Ruffy and Yarck. These water fill points are for anyone impacted by the recent fire event – people do not have to be customers of Goulburn Valley Water.

The three water fill points provide multiple access points – four taps with hoses for small containers, and two hoses to fill larger containers (such as Intermediate Bulk Containers).

All three of these water fill sites will be powered and accessing drinking water is as simple as pulling up alongside the 15,000-litre water tank and turning on the tap.

Locations are:

■ Ruffy: Directly opposite the emergency relief point at the town hall, alongside the stock feed (hay) access point.

■ Yarck: At the Yarck Hall. The drinking water access point is outside the public toilets at the reserve.

■ Molesworth: Outside the CFA Shed in Hood St (off the highway).

Goulburn Valley Water will be regularly monitoring drinking water levels and has water carters on hand ready to re-fill the tanks. There is signage at all the fill sites that have been established to explain more about how to access the water.

●

Alongside the water fill sites there are smaller drinking water fill sites available at:

■ Friendlies Oval - 9 Gobur St, Euroa

■ Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve - 2 Davon Street, Bonnie Doon

■ Alexandra Rotary Park – Opposite 49 Vickery St, Alexandra

■ Yea Recreation Reserve, 18 Snodgrass St, Yea

Centres are open as per standard operating hours. Eligible residents in the bushfire footprint are able to take small volumes (trailer loads) of clean-up material can to any Centre

Residents may be asked for proof of eligibility (for example, drivers' licence).

Hazardous material such as asbestos, garden or farm chemicals will not be accepted at the Centres.

White goods that were damaged by the power surge/outage will also be accepted for free and they don’t need to be in the bushfire impact area.

Daily newsletter

■ VicEmergency has been publishing a daily Community Newsletter specifically for the Southern Hume (Longwood Berry’s Lane) Fire.

Strathbogie Shire Council is sharing this newsletter on its website so residents can easily access accurate, up-to-date information in one central place.

The daily newsletter has included:

■ current fire status and safety updates

■ community information hubs and recovery support

■ road access and returning home advice

■ health, wellbeing and financial assistance

■ agriculture, livestock and wildlife information

Information has been updated daily as conditions change.

Whittlesea support

■ City of Whittlesea Mayor Cr Lawrie Cox said his municipality’s thoughts are with those impacted; those who have lost their homes and their livelihoods.

“The fires have left our neighbouring councils of Murrindindi and Mitchell in need of support as they begin the very long process; firstly to make the area safe and then start the long road to recovery,” Cr Cox said.

“At the City of Whittlesea we are all too familiar with the impacts of fire, with the experiences of February 2009 still all too fresh in the minds of many in our community.”

An Emergency Relief Centre was set up at the Whittlesea Community Activity Centre

“More than 100 City of Whittlesea staff have been supporting the 24-hour relief centre, emergency operations and other related duties. In more recent days we have had reinforcements from other Councils who are part of the North West region.”

For producers

■ An initial $40 million in grants of up to $75,000 will be provided to eligible primary producers, to help cover the costs of cleanup and reinstating their enterprises. Funding can be used for essential recovery activities such as disposing of livestock, rebuilding or replacing damaged on-farm infrastructure and restoring operations.

Road repairs funding

■ Almost $82 million has been announced to restore and repair state roads and public transport infrastructure damaged by the January 2026 Victorian bushfires.

Of that, up to $44 million is for emergency works which will be funded by the Federal and State Governments under joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangement. The Victorian Government will fund a further $37 million.

“This builds upon previously announced support and responds directly to needs identified by affected communities as they start their recovery journey,” said a State Government representative.

“We’ve seen a significant impact not only on the road surfaces but also critical roadside and safety infrastructure including barriers, signage and vegetation as well as the strain to roads from heavy machinery used for tree clearing on the roads.

“Crews will be out repairing wire rope and guard rails, cleaning up trees and debris, making sure signage remains intact and undertaking road repairs, supporting local economies and businesses, which rely on safe and accessible roads.

“We are undertaking works along critical routes including Murchison-Violet Town Rd to ensure this critical detour route for the Hume Hwy remains open for local communities,” the Government representative said.

Credit scores OK

■ Astralians impacted by natural disasters including bushfires, are being reminded that financial hardship assistance is available and does not affect their credit score.

Arca, the peak industry body for consumer credit, is encouraging anyone experiencing financial difficulty due to a natural disaster to prioritise their safety first and then contact their lender once they are able to discuss available support options.

Michael Blyth, Acting CEO at Arca, said many people worry about the impact missed payments may have on their credit, particularly during periods of disruption.

Livestock deaths

■ Victorian authorities on the ground at the Longwood and Walwa bushfires expect the death toll of livestock to rise significantly in the coming days.

“Agriculture Victoria has revealed 21,000 sheep and 1500 cattle have so far died as a result of the two north-east Victorian fires, with more livestock expected to die in a second wave of fatalities,” reported Stock &Land.

VFF activates Fund

■ Victorian Farmers’ Federation - the state’s peak farmer advocacy body - has activated its Disaster Relief Fund to provide immediate, farmer-led support to producers impacted by the catastrophic bushfires.

Brett Hosking, fifth generation grain farmer and President of the VFF, says the uniquely farmer-led program exists precisely for moments like this, allowing the VFF to get funds directly into the hands of farmers without the usual red tape.

“Every donation goes to support farmers in need, providing immediate grants to those who have suffered loss and to replace vital infrastructure, fodder and equipment, while also meeting basic household needs,” he says.

‘Profound loss’

■ Murrindindi Shire Mayor Cr Damian Gallagher says that the local community has experienced profound loss.

“We recognise the grief, exhaustion and uncertainty many people are feeling,” Cr Gallagher said.

“At the same time, we have witnessed remarkable care, generosity and resilience across our towns.

“Council is working to ensure that no impacted resident, business or town is overlooked in the support being provided.

“We are here to help - whether people need clear information, assisting people to navigate support services, or simply offering a place to sit, talk and have a cuppa.

“Council’s doors are open. We will continue walking alongside our community through this emergency and throughout the recovery ahead,” Cr Gallagher said in a statement.

‘CFA better funded’: Ward

■ Emergency Services Minister Vicki Ward says that the Country Fire Authority is better funded under the Labor State Government.

“ The CFA is stronger, better funded and better resourced under a Labor Government,” Ms Ward said.

“The CFA’s 2024–25 Annual Report makes it clear: in 2024-25 CFA funding reached its highest level in five years.

“Grant funding to the CFA has increased by nearly $22 million and total income is up by more than $26 million.

“The CFA’s asset base also grew by about $106 million.

“That means more funding for volunteers, more equipment on the ground and more investment in the stations, trucks and tools Victorians rely on during emergencies.

“At a time when fire-affected communities are looking for clear information and support, the Liberals are spreading misinformation and conspiracy theories.

“Victorians deserve better – not fear-mongering that undermines confidence in the very people protecting our communities. Because for the Liberals, this is all about politics, not people.

“The Leader of the Opposition should apologise for her misinformation campaign.

“She should also withdraw from the Barnaby

Joyce misinformation convention, which will claim climate change has nothing to do with fires and floods that are increasing in frequency and intensity,” Ms Ward said.

Caveat church lost in fires

● ● ● ● Our Lady of Seven Sorrows church at Caveat was destroyed by the bushfires. Photo: Catholic Weekly.

■ Our Lady of Seven Sorrows church at Caveat was destroyed – with only the crucifix and bell tower remaining intact, says Melbourne

Archbishop Peter Comensoli

The Archbishop paid tribute to the remains of the small church, saying it was a place which had been “sustained by generations of prayer”, said TheCatholicWeekly.

“In the stark image that remains, the crucifix and the bell tower stand amid the ashes –the final visible signs of a community shaped by faith,” he posted on social media.

“They call us anew to trust in Christ, who remains present even when all else is stripped away, and to our hope that rises from the Cross.”

Our Lady of Seven Sorrows, built in 1955 and part of the Yea-Alexandra parish, was destroyed on January 14 due to bushfires in the area.

Yea-Alexandra parish priest Fr Jose Matthew told MelbourneCatholicthere was concern over whether the church and its surroundings were still standing after the fire as the area was evacuated due to risk.

Fr Matthew said a parishioner who lived in Caveat said when she returned home, everything in the area was gone, but luckily the woman had not lost her home.

“She said across the road, the vineyards, farms and houses had burnt down, including the church.

“But it was confirmed last night when one of our parishioners had a friend up there and they sent us a picture,” Fr Matthew told MelbourneCatholic

Constructed in 1955, the church in Caveat was a labour of love by locals, many of whom were newlyly arrived migrants of Czech, Polish, Ukrainian and Slovakian descent.

CFA volunteers free

■ Yea Racing offered free admission to Country Fire Authority volunteersto the Yea Cup meeting held on Saturday, January 24.

“The Yea Racing Committee would like to extend a huge thank you to our incredible CFA volunteers, near and far, for their tireless efforts during the Longwood fires and the many spot fires along the way,” said a Club representative.

Fire volunteers simply had to show their CFA identoification athe the racecourse gate.

Daily video updates

■ Murrindindi Shire Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher has been providing daily video updates about fire recovery efforts.

The short presentations have been available at the Murrindindi Shire Council page on Facebook.

Rotary in action

■ Alexandra Rotarians have been distributing vouchers to those adversely affected by the fires and in need.

The $100 vouchers can be used in Alexandra.

Essential list for drop offs includes:

■ Fuel cards

■ Foodworks cards

■ New or almost new clothing

■ Rakes and shovels

■ Belts

■ New or almost new work gloves

Rotary needs financial support to help the community. Bank account details are: Rotary Club of Alexandra, National Australia Bank-Alexandra BSB 083 503 Account 60663 0744

Financial counselling

■ More than $4 million is being providede by Federal and State Governments to provide financial counselling for communities impacted by the bushfires.

Specialist counsellors will help individuals and families access recovery grants, manage insurance claims, replace essential items and deal with debts through payment plans and fee waivers.

They will also provide advocacy with insurers and creditors and connect people to legal support.

The funding will boost the Victorian Farmers Federation’s Financial Capability Support Program, giving primary producers tailored financial advice.

Power petition

■ Strathbogie Shire Council has been calling for community support to help ensure essential power upgrades in the region can go ahead.

The church was officially opened and blessed by Bishop Arthur Fox in 1956, with the bell tower and cross later added by locals.

The MelbourneCatholicreport said: “ While Sacred Heart Church in Yea is the main worshipping centre of the parish, Fr Mathew says that the church has remained an important part of the parish’s history.

“The community last gathered in the church back in late November. All three churches came together to celebrate the beginning of Advent, and that was the last time we gathered [there],” he said. “The main thing is to assure the people around here that they are not alone, and that people in the wider community, who are thinking of them, are praying and supporting them in whatever way they can.”

The Council started a change.org petition calling on the Australian Energy Regulator to approve plans by AusNet to install an Express Feeder, which would significantly improve power reliability in the region.

The AER rejected the plans last year based on a cost-benefit analysis, but AusNet has lodged the proposal again.

Strathbogie Deputy Mayor Cr Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the Council was urging the AER to reconsider the project using a more holistic framework that also included social resilience, emergency management and regional equity.

“our power failed us when we needed it most,” she said. “High temperatures, bushfires raging across the shire and large areas of Strathbogie were without power for days. It’s not good enough.

“This is our last chance for five years to get this project approved. We need to let the AER know that Strathbogie residents are sick of the black-outs and we want reliable power. It should not be a luxury in modern Australia.”

Register for Rural Aid

■ Farmers – particularly those in disasterimpacted regions – are strongly encouraged to register with Rural Aid now, as ongoing natural disasters and worsening weather conditions continue to threaten rural communities. “Disasters don’t wait, and neither should farmers,” Rural Aid Chief Executive Officer John Warlters said. “Registering with Rural Aid now means we can act fast when conditions worsen, whether that’s financial relief, counselling, or delivering hay and water to farmers who need it most.”

Water at Longwood

■ People in Longwood and Longwood East no longer need to boil water for drinking, preparing food, brushing teeth, making ice or baby formula.

Goulburn Valley Water tankers are filling the drinking water storages daily to ensure water supply remains uninterrupted.

Long term water supply options are being considered for Longwood as an assessment is completed of damage to the water treatment plant.

Mobile information hub

■ The Murrindindi Shire Council mobile information hub has been visiting centres throughout the fire recovery region.

The mobile hub ventured into Strathbogie Council area on Thursday, Januiary 22, with a visit to Longwood Community Centre.

The hub ytravelled to Terip Terip Tennis Club that afternoon.

- please direct financial donations through

Hub at Longwood

■ Foundation Murrindindi is the preferred destination for donations, “to ensure help reaches those who need it most”, says Murrindindi Shire Council.

“Support local businesses from home via www.victoriashighcountry.com.au/high-country-at-home

Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the Mobile Library and kerbside services were still being impacted, but that the Council was working hard to restore them safely.

Injured wildlife

■ Those who see injured or distressed wildlife in or near a fireground, are asked to report this to DEECA via the Wildlife Emergency app: https://wildlife.ffm.vic.gov.au/ Call the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action on 136 186 or Wildlife Victoria on 03 8400 7300.

Wildlife Victoria is working closely with DEECA to manage reports in areas under warnings. They will pass these reports on directly to DEECA

A 1300 number has been established for reports to go directly to the local DEECA wildlife coordinator in the Incident Management Team. The number for the Longwood - Berrys Lane fire is 1300 322 060.

Team at Seymour

■ Goulburn Valley Water has been maintaining a presence at the Incident Control Centre at Seymour, working to ensure staff remain safe while accessing assets in the fire-affected area.

GV Water staff are on the ground at different locations across the service area to keep services running and people informed about interruptions where they are occurring.

State of Disaster

■ The Victorian Governmnent declared a ‘State of Disaster’ for 18 Local Government Areas and one Alpine Resort, On January 10.

Premier Jacinta Allan said thath she was satisfied there was an emergency that constitutes, or is likely to constitute, a significant and widespread danger to life or property in parts of Victoria including Lake Mountain Alpine Resort (Unincorporated), Mansfield Shire, Mitchell Shire, Murrindindi Shire and Strathbogie Shire

A State of Disaster:

■ May be declared to exist in the whole, or parts, of Victoria

■ Exists immediately upon the making of the declaration and remains in force until February 8

■ Can be revoked or varied by the Premier at any time.

The declaration gives the Government, through the Minister for Emergency Services, the powers and resources it needs. Examples of the Minister’s broad power to direct and allocate government resources include:

■ Directing any government agency to do, or refrain from doing, any function, power, duty, or responsibility

■ Declaring that the operation of an Act or subordinate instrument is suspended, if compliance by a government agency with that legislation would inhibit response to or recovery from the disaster.

Special meeting for Council

Murrindindi Shire Councillors

■ Murrindindi Shire Councillors were asked to te,porarily lift the financial delegation of Chief Execvutive Officer Livia Bonazzi from $500.000 to $3 million for bushfire response.

The request for the temporary increase is until May 30, subject to monthly reports to Council detailing the value of bushfire response and recovery goods, services and works procured and the suppliers contracted.

A special meeting of Murrindindi Shire Council to approve the change was held on Wednesday, January 21.

Councillors were told that the Municipal Emergency Management Officer had decided to suspend Sections - Procurement Thresholds and Standing Offer and Panel Agreement Procurement Thresholds to enable timely procurement for urgent bushfire relief and recovery works “where adherence to standard thresholds is impractical or would otherwise cause unacceptable delays”.

“The Longwood fire ignited on the southbound lane of the Hume Fwy near Longwood on Wednesday, January 7,” said Michael Chesworth, Council’s Director People and Corporate Performance, in a report presented by Cr Anita Carr.

“The Longwood fire spread to cover large parts of Murrindindi and sections of Mitchell, Mansfield and Strathbogie Shires.

“A State of Emergency was declared by the Victorian Government on January 10.

“As at January 17, the Longwood Fire had spread to approximately 142,000 ha of mostly private land with a fire perimeter of approximately 330 km.

“The fire has impacted 17 Murrindindi communities and tragically resulted in one fatality, a resident of Murrindindi

“It has also resulted in the destruction of over 170 homes, significant livestock losses, major agricultural impacts, and numerous power and telecommunications outages.

“The fire was still active on January 17 and remained under the management of the Incident Control Centre which is responsible for coordinating fire response, emergency com-

at the

munications (including community-level information), and road closures.

“When immediate life-safety risks have stabilised, the Incident Control Centre will transition responsibility to Council as the lead agency under the EmergencyManagement Act2013for the ongoing coordination of relief and recovery.

“Council’s Procurement Policy includes emergency provisions that enable Council to adjust financial delegations and suspend parts of the policy as needed to effectively and efficiently respond in emergency situations, deliver relief and recovery services and support our communities.

“The significant damage to roadside trees and road infrastructure has to date prevented safe access to enable formal impact assessments of the scale of damage to public and private infrastructure.

“However, the costs of managing damaged, fallen, burnt and unsafe tress alone is expected to be in the millions of dollars. These treerelated works are critical path items, as they must be completed before roads can be fully re-opened to allow residents to return, businesses to operate and relief and recovery support to be delivered,” the report said.

Minister, MP call in at Murrindindi

Concierge available

■ A Community Concierge will be at Alexandra Library from 10am-2pm weekdays to offer personalised face-to face support. The Concierge will connect people to community resources, organisations and services to assist navigate their fire recovery journey.

Lightning strikes

■ The need for ongoing vigilence was brought home by Buxton CFA after their volunteers attended lightning strike sites on Wednesday, January 21.

“With a storm cell over the Triangle, we had at least three Lightning strikes go to ground along the eastern side of the Black Range,” said a brigade representative.

“Columns of smoke were quickly reported to Emergency 000 and sighted by the Mt Gordon Fire Tower operated by Forest Fire Management Victoria.

“Marysville Fire Brigade - CFA, Acheron CFA and Taggerty Fire Brigade also responded along with FFMV and HPV Plantations

“Buxton Tanker 1 was quickly on scene for the first report, near Williams Lane, and managed to round up the fire which was burning through phalaris grass. The crew managed to keep the fire to about 0.5ha.

“Taggerty Tanker was redirected to the second report along Project Rd , near Horseyard Track, which was also quickly dealt with.

“The third strike was on the western side of the range but an aircraft, tasked from the Alexandra DivCom, was able to verify that no fire was present in the area and all resources were released.”

Breakfast cancelled

■ Yea’s Australia Day Breakfast (Mon., Jan. 26), traditionally organised scheduled by the Rotary Club of Yea, was cancelled because of “this unsettling and difficult time”.

Instead there was a brief Flag Raising ceremony at 9am, in the plantation opposite the Shire Hall

Vicki Ward visits

■ Emergency Services Minister, Vicki Ward, who is also State MLA for Eltham, visited Murrindindi Shire on Friday, January 23, to discuss recovery projects with Council officials. Ms Ward also participated in a local radio interview with UGFM Radio Murrindindi.

Restoring habitat

■ Trust for Nature says that the number of Victorian conservation covenants impacted by the fires this month has risen to 55. Some 32 registered private land conservation sites – including the 55 conservation covenants, a Trust for Nature reserve and up to 100 properties registered through Land for Wildlife – have been affected by the fires.

“The impact of the fires on biodiversity is wide-reaching,” said a Trust For Nature representative. “It’s estimated almost 100 species have had substantial areas of their habitat affected, including some critically endangered plants and animals that are only found in these unique places, which have been burnt.

“The fire-affected covenants support species such as the Otway Burrowing Crayfish, Regent Parrot, Fat-tailed Dunnart, Brush-tailed Phascogale, Striped Legless Lizard, Skeleton Fan-flower, Silky Glycine, Hickory Wattle, and many more.”

Thanks for memory

■ Telstra says that bushfire-affected community people on a monthly mobile plan, will automatically receive 100GB of extra data if they are in an affected area for use within 30 days in Australia. “If you are eligible you will receive a text message informing you extra data has been added,” a Telstra representative said.

■ Current indications suggest around 30

Golden Guitar

■ The 54th Tamworth Country Music Festival has come and gone for another year and along with it the annual Golden Guitar winners announced.

Among the recipients were Tasmanian-based The Wolfe Bros who cleaned up, winning five Golden Guitar Awards , including 2026 Toyota Album of the Year.

Kasey Chambers and ex husband Shane Nicholson were also winners with an emotional song of heartbreak.

The Divorce Song, written and recorded by the two, won Song and Single of the Year.

Rivers Edge

■ Brendan McMahon’s new single The Rivers Edge tells the story of growing up in a small country town and having a whole lot of fun. “Making our own billy-carts, playing every sport we possibly could and we’d even ride our bikes down to the river on the weekends to go fishing or swimming. We were kids having a blast down by the river's edge,” he says.

Neil at the Memo

■ Maverick Aussie song man Neil Murray was a founding member of the pioneering Warumpi Band, which in the 1980’s penetrated mainstream Australia with the iconic anthems My Island Home and Blackfella Whitefella Neil and his band will release the new single Still Here By My Side on Frixday, April 17, at the Memo Music Club, St Kilda . Tickets at the Memo

MY BRILLIANT CAREER IS ... BRILLIANT

■ Presented by the Melbourne Theatre Company, the awardwinning Australian musical My Brilliant Career has made a stunning return to the Southbank Theatre, The Sumner, playing until February 28.

Wow, what a show! This reimagined interpretation of Miles Franklin’s 1901 novel under the direction of AnneLouise Sarks takes musical theatre to another level.

With book by Sheridan Harbridge and Dean Bryant , music by Mathew Frank and lyrics by Dean Bryant, the show is set in regional New South Wales in the late 1890s.

Under the musical direction of Victoria Falconer, Frank’s smorgasbord of contemporary pop, bush balladry and pubrock was an instant crowdpleaser.

The concept of an ensemble of artists multi-tasking to play musical instruments, act, sing, dance and entertain with gusto works ingeniously for this show.

The ability of some of these ‘quadruple threats’ to dance and high kick whilst playing the cello, violin and guitar was awesome.

Kala Gare is fabulous as teenage protagonist Sybylla Melvin

With her powerhouse voice, musical skills and stage presence, Kala is also a naturalistic storyteller, seamlessly breaking the fourth wall to address and befriend her audience, sharing irony and delight.

An ensemble of multi-talented musical theatre artists skilfully intermixes to portray Franklin’s characters.

Each performer sparkles individually, including Drew Livingston, Ana Mitsikas, Raj Labade, Christine O’Neill, Cameron Bajraktarevic-Hayward, Melanie Bird, Lincoln Elliott, Victoria Falconer and Jarrad Payne.

Anne-Louise Sarks ensures her audience is entertained throughout the pacey show, complemented by Amy Campbell’s fresh, lively choreography.

Marg Horwell’s set design appears simple but is incredibly clever, succeeding in transporting the audience to the various story locations. The era authentic costumes include some spectacular puffsleeve designed dresses which add to visual interest.

A sense of joy radiates from this show as performers and audience share each delightful theatrical moment.

My Brilliant Career is an exciting new Australian musical, developed as part of the Jeanne Pratt Artist in Residency Program at Monash University. It deserves a place in the canon of Australian musical theatre.

Performance Season: Until February 28

Venue: Southbank Theatre, The Sumner Bookings: mtc.com.au

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Police Blotter

BULLA

Twice the limit

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

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

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

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

The driver from Sunbury had his licence immediately suspended.

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

ENDEAVOUR HILLS

Crash teens flee

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MILL PARK

Driver blew .232

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

Epping Police on patrol spotted a ute allegedly swerving all over the road and mounting a kerb, all without headlights on, along Fred Hollows Way in the early hours of Saturday morning, January 24. Officers intercepted the ute and the driver provided an alleged breath test reading of 0.232.

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

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

FERNTREE GULLY

Died at the scene

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

It is understood a car crashed into a pole on Oaklands Avenue about 5.55pm. Two passengers of the vehicle died at the scene.

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

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

ARREST AFTER SUSPICIOUS GOULBURN VALLEY FIRES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The investigation remains ongoing.

WARRAGUL

Crossbows, tasers seized

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

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

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

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

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

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

STAWELL

Man dies

■ Police are investigating the circumstances following a fatal crash in Stawell Emergency services were called to the scene on Pomonal Rd, near Pipetrack Rd, about 4.15pm on Wednesday, January 21. It appears the driver of the vehicle travelling north, has veered from the road into a ditch and crashed into a tree.

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

Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.

● ● Police want to speak with this man.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Across Victoria

TOLMIE

Teenager injured

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

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

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

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

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

Detectives are investigating whether another vehicle may have been involved.

MOUNT ELIZA

Porsche burg bust

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

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

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

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

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

A 22-year-old Frankston man was charged with aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle and driving while disqualified. He was remanded to appear before Frankston Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, January 27.

KEW

Death after stabbing

■ The body of a man was found in Antwerp as part of the ongoing investigation into a stabbing in Kew

Local police made the discovery following a call to Triple Zero around 6.15am on Wednesday, January 21.

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

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

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

Police have been updated the woman attained a stable condition.

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

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

EAST MALVERN

Aggravated burglary

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

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

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

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

The occupant approached the offenders who then ran off.

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

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

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

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

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

Minnie Schonberg married Simon Marx in 1885, they were Jewish immigrants and lived in New York City’s Upper East Side. Minnie gave birth to six sons, Leonard (Chico), Adolph (Harpo), Julius (Groucho), Milton (Gummo), Herbert (Zeppo) and Manfred who sadly only survived for three months.

The boys learnt to play musical instruments and began in vaudeville at an early age.

Their uncle Albert was Al Shean from the famous team of Gallagher and Shean. They began as a singing troupe and their original stage act included their mother Minnie By 1913 the act had evolved into a comedy team featuring the four Marx Brothers

The original team consisted of Groucho, Chico, Harpo and Zeppo ( Gummo had left the act to enlist during WWI and never appeared in any of their films); each had their own unique character developed during their vaudeville appearances.

The story goes that Groucho became tired of sticking a moustache on for every show and took the easy way out by painting it on with greasepaint.

Harpo never spoke, Chico developed a character with an Italian accent and Zeppo was the handsome straight man.

Ha Ha Ha Ha Happened ppened ppened to ... the to to ... the to Marx Marx Marx Marx Brothers Brothers Brothers Brothers

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

They did three successful Broadway shows and this led to their first film The Cocoanuts with Paramount Studios in 1929.

Their feature films at Paramount included Animal Crackers, Monkey Business, Horse Feathers and Duck Soup Groucho and Chico starred in a radio series titled Flywheel, Shyster and Flywheel. They were signed by MGM Studios in 1934 where they made some of their best films.

Zeppo left the team to set up a very successful talent agency with his brother Milton I remember interviewing Allan Jones who was in two of their MGM films A Day at the Races and A Night at the Opera Allan told me that the Marx Brothers

tested their sketches in their stage shows. They timed the laughs and knew which sketches worked before they were included in their films.

Margaret Dumont was one of their regular cast members and always played the wealthy high society widow chased, insulted and romanced by Groucho.

She had worked in their Broadway shows and was absolutely marvellous.

Margaret won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in A Day at the Races

The boys were passionate gamblers and apparently they made their last two films A Night in Casablanca and Love Happy mainly to help pay Chico’s gambling debts. Chico was in Australia in 1949 performing for the Tivoli Circuit

During the 1950s Groucho Marx found fame as a quizmaster in the television series You Bet Your Life.

All the brothers have gone to God these days, but it is wonderful to watch their old films on television or DVD and have a good laugh at The Marx Brothers

Anyone like a ‘Tootsie Frootsie Ice Cream’?

Kevin can be heard on 3AWThe Time Tunnel - Remember WhenSundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM

That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon.

www.innerfm.org.au

AT MAPh, PAST STILL EXISTS IN THE PRESENT

Theatre Extra Theatre Extra Theatre Extra Theatre Extra Theatre Extra

P*rn

■ Something of a shambolic mildly entertaining Midsumma Festival offering, P*rn conveyed a lot of interesting factual information about the porn industry but little in the way of insight or critique.

A collage of nameless characters drifted on and off the stage. They were people using porn or working in the industry, identifying as trans, straight, gay or otherwise queer of some description.

Interactions between them were strange, full of passion, ennui and a sense of alien. Written by Keelan Armstrong (who also directed), P*rn had a loose fluid structure consisting of monologues, couple and group interactions, songs, brief one-liners, didactic lectures and multimedia screen projections. Busy in other words.

Admirable in its experimental form, it touched on a myriad of themes and issues raised by porn such as feminism, the male gaze, sexuality, child abuse - the list goes on. This scattergun approach was both a strength and a weakness.

An ensemble of six actors - Cassidy Capraro, Francine Miranda, Kaia Reyes, Kit Baker, Rory O’brien and Jackson Cross - brought the script to life.

Each had a strength to their performances through either their characterisations (the narcissistic stud, the busty lustful wench) or witty delivery. However they were not without weaknesses as well as too often dialogue was inaudible or actors were flat in their delivery.

In part, responsibility for such failings lay with Armstrong who, as previously mentioned, directed his own script. A more objective outside eye might have prevented such performance issues coupled with a longer more disciplined rehearsal period.

Still, the pace of the show meant that there was always something else waiting to surprise or shock and its slapstick sensibility was engaging to a certain degree.

Promoted as a dark comedy then, P*rn ultimately felt too slight and whimsical. Occasionally dark, occasionally funny, it felt like a missed opportunity to give porn and its $100 billion industry the fuller deeper treatment it cries out for.

Review by Peter Murphy

When Your Number’s Up

■ Arts House will reimagine the downstairs Supper Room at North Melbourne Town Hall to present Rel Pham’s free video installation When Your Number’s Up.

When Your Number’s Up explores chance, systems and personal meaning by blending humour with quiet intensity. The work invites viewers to reflect on luck, inevitability and the unseen forces that shape everyday life, unfolding in a way that rewards curiosity and close attention.

“This work is about how people find meaning in chaos. It’s about our desire to believe, whether in divination or machine learning, and how those beliefs can both comfort and trap us,” explained Pham

The transformation of the Supper Room marks a shift for Arts House, broadening its artistic offer, deepening audience engagement and creating new opportunities for artists to experiment.

Arts House Head of Programming Naomi Velaphi said the new approach rethinks how people use the building and presents digital-based works.

February 12 – March 6. Mon. – Fri., 10am – 4pm Neighbourhood Gathering: Thursday, February 12. 5pm-7pm Arts House – North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne Tickets Free Review by Peter Murphy

The Crimson Thread – Erin Lee investigates the ubiquitous presence of Australia’s British heritage through the lens of Queen Elizabeth II’s Royal Tour of Australia.

Using speculative documentary photography, the project traces the Queen’s tour document that contemporary settler society in Australia like today, and its continuing ambition.

By highlighting the ways in which our ongoing celebration of colonial history sustains white privilege, The Crimson Thread invites viewers to question official histories and to consider how strongly our past still exists in the present.

Exhibition cluses March 9.

MAPh

800 Ferntree Gully Rd, Wheelers Hill

At Mornington

Unfolding – First Nations Works on Paper Is a major exhibition of First Nations works on paper featuring prints, drawings, paintings on paper and sculptural works from the MPRG Collection.

First Nations artists have used paper as a material to demonstrate a particular kind of strength and permeance - one that holds, canvases and expressions identity, body and self, language, connection to Country history and community,

Exhibition closes February 15.

★

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

It is one of the first neon sign installations by pioneering American artist Bruce Nauman , who has worked for over six decades across painting, sculpture, video performance and print.

Exhibition opens March 29 and closes March 28, 2027.

Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery Civic Reserve Dunns Rd, Mornington

Kingston Arts

Ex-Libris

(from the Collection of Chris Lowry)

This exhibition tames the viewer on an experimental journey as the artist blurs the lines between the past and future to create speculative archives. Lowry blends cabinets od curiosities, contemporary technology, as well as art historical and museological tropes to investigate our relationship with nature.

My Elder Sister – Abhijit Pal

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

A Circular Exchange – Katie Paine

A print series investigating historical communications technologies, drawing from archival images from the State Library of Victoria’s telecommunication archives and photographs taken at the Deutches Science ad Technology Museum in Munich.

Venue: Outdoor Lightbox Gallery Kingston Arts Precinct.

★

Sublime Light – Shaun Wilson.

A video art project exploring slowness, the sublime, and imagery, examining how cinema evokes emotion and memory through the horizon where ocean and land converge.

Exhibition closes Saturday March 14.

★ Wonders Under the Sun and Moon – Tai Snaith

Celebrate wondrous diurnal and nocturnal creatures from all over the world with an exhibition of illustrations from Snaith’s last two published children’s books

Exhibition closes Saturday April 4.

Venue: G3Gallery Shirley burke Theatre. Kingston Arts 979 Nepean Hwy, Moorabbin Peter Kemp

Business punished

■ The Essential Services Commission has taken action against two Victorian Energy Upgrades-accredited businesses for allegedly breaching the program rules.

Vision Environmental Solutions

The commission has placed a six-month restriction on Vision Environmental Solutions Pty Ltd’s VEU accreditation.

It alleges Vision Environmental Solutions and contractors working on its behalf made false claims about weather sealing and shower rose upgrades. This included claiming upgrades that did not occur and exaggerating the number of upgrades it completed.

This is the third enforcement action resulting from the commission’s fraud taskforce – a newly established unit focussed on stamping out fraudulent activity in high-volume, lowcost energy efficiency upgrades. Green Energy Trading

It alleges Green Energy Trading and contractors working on its behalf failed to obtain consumer consent for multiple non-buildingbased lighting upgrades. Green Energy Trading is banned from creating certificates for non-building-based lighting upgrades for three months.

Local Cricket Weekend Results

Premier

■ Firsts. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Melbourne 1st XI 6/327 v Carlton 1st XI. 9/326. Richmond 1st XI 10/256 v Ringwood 1st XI 10/150. Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 3/254 v St Kilda 1st XI 10/193. Northcote 1st XI 8-d/357 v Essendon 1st XI 10/252. Melbourne University 1st XI 10/316 v Prahran 1st XI 10/375. Geelong 1st XI 10/187 v Dandenong 1st XI 4/282. Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 2/228 v Footscray 1st XI 10/206. Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 10/291 v Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 10/180. Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 10/251 v Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 10/284.

■ Seconds. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Carlton 2nd XI 10/261 v Melbourne 2nd XI 7-d/304. Ringwood 2nd XI 7/285 v Richmond 2nd XI 10/204. St Kilda 2nd XI 10/252 v Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 10/141. Essendon 2nd XI 10/ 130 v Northcote 2nd XI 10/176 & 2/29. Prahran 2nd XI 10/314 v Melbourne University 2nd XI 10/186. Dandenong 2nd XI 10/195 v Geelong 2nd XI 5-d/304. Footscray 2nd XI 10/385 v Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/196. Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 10/137 v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 10/246. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 10/257 & 1/10 v Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 10/168.

■ Thirds. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Melbourne 3rd XI 7/311 v Carlton 3rd XI 10/245. Richmond 3rd XI 10/189 & 0/6 v Ringwood 3rd XI 10/223. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI 9/289 v St Kilda 3rd XI 9/291. Northcote 3rd XI 9/315 v Essendon 3rd XI 10/236. Melbourne University 3rd XI 7/261 v Prahran 3rd XI 10/258. Geelong 3rd XI 5/308 v Dandenong 3rd XI 10/137. Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 10/198 v Footscray 3rd XI 10/250. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 10/171 v Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI 10/185. Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 10/178 v Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 2-d/288.

■ Fourths. Two-Day, Jan. 24 and 31. Carlton 4th XI 10/157 v Melbourne 4th XI 10/236. Ringwood 4th XI 10/237 v Richmond 4th XI 9/336. St Kilda 4th XI 7/136 v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI 7/155. Essendon 4th XI 3-d/142 & 5/153 v Northcote 4th XI 10/133 & 2-d/158. Prahran 4th XI 10/175 v Melbourne University 4th XI 8/198. Dandenong 4th XI 10/264 v Geelong 4th XI 8/262. Footscray 4th XI 10/168 v Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 5/292. Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 10/187 v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 8-d/287. Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI 7/330 v Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI 10/211.

Sub-District

■ East West 1st XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Bayswater 1st XI v Box Hill 1st XI 9/ 234. Croydon 1st XI v Balwyn 1st XI 10/206. Mt Waverley 1st XI v Endeavour Hills 1st XI 10/226. Noble Park 1st XI 5/108 v Donvale 1st XI 10/98. Melton 1st XI 2/11 v Altona 1st XI 10/160. Spotswood 1st XI 10/220 v Yarraville 1st XI. Taylors Lakes 1st XI v Williamstown 1st XI 10/228. Werribee 1st XI 1/55 v Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 10/205.

■ East West 2nd XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Box Hill 2nd XI 10/70 v Bayswater 2nd XI 10/123. Balwyn 2nd XI v Croydon 2nd XI 7/250. Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 10/209 v Mt Waverley 2nd XI. Donvale 2nd XI 2/55 v Noble Park 2nd XI 10/220. Altona 2nd XI 6/120 v Melton 2nd XI 10/73. Yarraville 2nd XI 10/245 v Spotswood 2nd XI 0/6. Williamstown 2nd XI 10/195 v Taylors Lakes 2nd XI. Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/133 v Werribee 2nd XI 1/38.

■ North South 1st XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Brunswick 1st XI 2/98 v Coburg 1st XI 10/215. Ivanhoe 1st XI v Preston 1st XI 9/ 310. St Bernard's OC 1st XI 7-d/126 v Plenty Valley 1st XI 10/44 & 2/16. Strathmore 1st XI v Kew 1st XI 4/308, abandoned. Brighton 1st XI 9-d/261 v Ormond 1st XI 0/7. Caulfield 1st XI 10/188 v Malvern 1st XI 1/30. Moorabbin 1st XI 10/200 v Oakleigh 1st XI 0/13. Port Melbourne 1st XI 3/64 v Elsternwick 1st XI 10/149.

■ North South 2nd XI. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Coburg 2nd XI v Brunswick 2nd XI 6/381. Preston 2nd XI 9/253 v Ivanhoe 2nd XI. Plenty Valley 2nd XI v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 7/356. Kew 2nd XI 10/156 v Strathmore 2nd XI 3/34. Ormond 2nd XI 10/165 v Brighton 2nd XI 0/24. Malvern 2nd XI 3/43 v Caulfield 2nd XI 10/146. Oakleigh 2nd XI 10/223 v Moorabbin 2nd XI 1/14. Elsternwick 2nd XI 10/184 v Port Melbourne 2nd XI 1/1.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Hoppers Crossing 3rd XI 4/142 v Melton 3rd XI 10/104. Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/106 v Brunswick 3rd XI 2/47.

Preston 3rd XI 5/175 v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 10/67. Werribee 3rd XI 10/218 v Taylors Lakes 3rd XI.

■ North West 3rd XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Altona 3rd XI 0/7 v Yarraville 3rd XI 10/118. Ivanhoe 3rd XI 10/ 294 v Williamstown 3rd XI. Kew 3rd XI 2/ 55 v Strathmore 3rd XI 10/252. Spotswood 3rd XI 10/186 v Coburg 3rd XI 2/16.

■ North West 4th XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Melton 4th XI 10/123 v Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 2/32. Brunswick 4th XI v Plenty Valley 4th XI. St Bernard's OC 4th XI 0/12 v Preston 4th XI. Taylors Lakes 4th XI 7-d/215 v Werribee 4th XI 4/ 26.

■ North West 4th XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Yarraville 4th XI 5/95 v Altona 4th XI 10/85. Williamstown 4th XI 10/114 v Ivanhoe 4th XI 3/61. Strathmore 4th XI 5/77 v Kew 4th XI 10/74. Coburg 4th XI v Spotswood 4th XI 5/231.

■ South East 3rd XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Balwyn 3rd XI v Mt Waverley 3rd XI 8/270. Caulfield 3rd XI v Elsternwick 3rd XI 10/258. Croydon 3rd XI 0/6 v Malvern 3rd XI 10/242. Oakleigh 3rd XI 1/43 v Bayswater 3rd XI 10/142.

■ South East 3rd XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Noble Park 3rd XI v Box Hill 3rd XI. Port Melbourne 3rd XI 1/8 v Brighton 3rd XI 10/144. Donvale 3rd XI 0/8 v Moorabbin 3rd XI 10/254. Endeavour Hills 3rd XI 10/130 v Ormond 3rd XI 5/67.

■ South East 4th XI Division 1. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Mt Waverley 4th XI 3/ 48 v Balwyn 4th XI 10/126. Elsternwick 4th XI v Caulfield 4th XI 8/213. Malvern 4th XI 10/217 v Croydon 4th XI. Sunday, February 1: Bayswater 4th XI v Oakleigh 4th XI.

■ South East 4th XI Division 2. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Box Hill 4th XI 9/31 v Noble Park 4th XI 10/94 & 2/19. Brighton 4th XI 10/175 v Port Melbourne 4th XI 2/ 21. Moorabbin 4th XI v Donvale 4th XI 9/ 264. Ormond 4th XI 10/268 v Endeavour Hills 4th XI.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Two-Day. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. Bundoora United 1st XI 3/30 v Riverside 1st XI 10/128. Diamond Creek 1st XI 6/293 v Rosebank 1st XI. Macleod 1st XI 1/ 22 v Epping 1st XI 10/176. North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI 0/4 v Bundoora 1st XI 10/ 232. Rosanna 1st XI 3/2 v Heidelberg 1st XI 10/194.

■ Money Shield. Plenty 1st XI 10/181 v Bundoora Park 1st XI 1/27. Eltham 1st XI v Montmorency 1st XI 7/257. Mernda 1st XI 10/128 v Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 1/43. Lower Plenty 1st XI 10/273 v Banyule 1st XI 0/1. Lalor Stars 1st XI 1/27 v Greensborough 1st XI 10/124.

■ Mash Shield. Hurstbridge 1st XI 1/136 v Mill Park 1st XI 10/121. Laurimar 1st XI 3/ 266 v Dennis 1st XI. Lower Eltham 1st XI 8/272 v Keon Park CC 1st XI. Panton Hill 1st XI 10/74 v Rivergum 1st XI 4/92. Thomastown United 1st XI 5/80 v Thomastown 1st XI 10/122. Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 5/58 v South Morang 1st XI 10/153.

■ B-Grade. Banyule 2nd XI v North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI. Heidelberg 2nd XI v Rosanna 2nd XI. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI v Mernda 2nd XI. Riverside 2nd XI v Plenty 2nd XI. Montmorency 2nd XI v Diamond Creek 2nd XI.

■ C-Grade. Bundoora 2nd XI 10/78 & 0/7 v Lower Plenty 2nd XI 2-d/81. Greensborough 2nd XI 2/36 v Lalor Stars 2nd XI 10/ 201. South Morang 2nd XI 6/392 v Macleod 2nd XI. Riverside 3rd XI 10/239 v Bundoora United 2nd XI. Rivergum 2nd XI 0/14 v Eltham 2nd XI 10/177.

■ D-Grade. North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 0/2 v Laurimar 2nd XI 10/184. Mill Park 2nd XI 9/116 v Hurstbridge 2nd XI 4/87. Montmorency 3rd XI 10/181 v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 2nd XI 2/103. Bundoora Park 2nd XI 1/20 v Diamond Creek 3rd XI 10/210. Rosebank 2nd XI 10/65 v Panton Hill 2nd XI. Keon Park CC 2nd XI 10/126 v Lower Plenty 3rd XI 2/87

■ E-Grade. Mernda 3rd XI 0/120 v Thomastown United 2nd XI 10/114. Dennis 2nd XI 10/85 v Riverside 4th XI 1/109. Greensborough 3rd XI 10/219 v Lower Eltham 2nd XI 1/5. Thomastown 2nd XI v Banyule 3rd XI 9/279. Bye: South Morang 3rd XI

■ F1-Grade. Banyule 4th XI 10/102 v Rivergum 3rd XI 5/194. Eltham 3rd XI 9/ 271 v Macleod 3rd XI. Bundoora United

3rd XI 10/125 v Dennis 3rd XI 1/20. Laurimar 3rd XI 10/183 v Whittlesea 1st XI 0/5. Research Eltham Collegians 3rd XI 0/ 21 v Greensborough 4th XI 10/126.

■ F2-Grade. Riverside 5th XI 8/258 v South Morang 4th XI. Lower Plenty 4th XI 10/226 v Research Eltham Collegians 4th XI 1/15. Banyule 5th XI v Greensborough 5th XI. Hurstbridge 3rd XI 10/288 v Mernda 4th XI 0/2. Bye: Montmorency 4th XI.

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. Bulleen 1st XI 9/173 v Glen Iris 1st XI 6/222. Old Carey 1st XI 3/ 161. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 10/160. East Doncaster 1st XI 2/137 v Edinburgh 1st XI 10/136. North Balwyn 1st XI 10/138 v Mont Albert 1st XI 4/255.

■ Wright Shield. Mulgrave 1st XI 10/142 v Heathmont 1st XI 6/151. Surrey Hills 1st XI 8/194 v Deepdene Bears 1st XI 10/151. Richmond City 1st XI 8/169 v Canterbury 1st XI 6/173. Ashburton Willows 1st XI 2/ 153 v Marcellin OC 1st XI 10/152.

■ A Turf. Mont Albert 2nd XI 6/159 v Old Carey 2nd XI 2/160. Burwood 1st XI 5/193 v Ashwood 1st XI 9/191. Boronia 1st XI 6/ 169 v Mazenod OC 1st XI 8/166. Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 10/158 v Balwyn Saints 1st XI 5/283.

■ B Turf. Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 5/199 v East Doncaster 2nd XI 6/200. Richmond Union 1st XI 4/141 v Bulleen 2nd XI 10/140. Heathmont 2nd XI 10/136 v North Balwyn 2nd XI 7/170. Canterbury 2nd XI 4/172 v St Kevins Old Boys 1st XI 9/171.

■ C Turf. La Trobe University 1st XI 9/176 v Burwood 2nd XI 3/180. Glen Iris 2nd XI 9/237 v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI 10/ 162. East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 7/169 v Mulgrave 2nd XI 3/173. Edinburgh 2nd XI 5/120 v Boronia 2nd XI 9/118.

■ D Turf. Mazenod OC 2nd XI 10/113 v Surrey Hills 2nd XI 10/101. Marcellin OC 2nd XI 10/105 v Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 7/149. Old Carey 3rd XI 10/204 v Richmond City 2nd XI 7/181. Ashwood 2nd XI 3/140 v Mont Albert 3rd XI 10/139.

■ E Turf. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI 7/150 v East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI 6/146. Marcellin OC 3rd XI 10/118 v Surrey Hills 3rd XI 3/119. Edinburgh 3rd XI 9/174 v Heathmont 3rd XI 7/173. Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 4/297 v Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/108. La Trobe University 2nd XI 10/ 141 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 10/242.

■ F Turf. East Doncaster 3rd XI 4/205 v Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI 10/149. St Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 8/171 v Bulleen 3rd XI 2/175. East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI 10/ 127 v Surrey Hills 4th XI 7/128. Sunday, february 1:Mont Albert 4th XI v Richmond City 3rd XI. Bye: Heathmont 4th XI.

■ MacGibbon Shield. STC South Camberwell 1st XI 7/187 v Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 9/188. West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 10/153 v Clifton Hill 1st XI 1/156. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 10/120 v Holy Trinity 1st XI 1/123. Glen Waverley 1st XI 8/178 v Trinity Willison 1st XI 10/146.

■ Burt Shield. Holy Trinity 2nd XI 10/154 v Toorak Prahran 1st XI 3/160. Clifton Hill 2nd XI 7/191 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI 8/194. Trinity Willison 2nd XI 4/358 v Glen Waverley 2nd XI 10/109. St Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 5/277 v North Alphington 1st XI 10/154.

Mornington Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. One Day. Pines 1sts 9/171 v Mornington 1sts 10/142. Langwarrin 1sts 1/113 v Dromana 1sts 10/112. Baden Powell 1sts 9/166 v Red Hill 1sts 10/124. Heatherhill 1sts 7/180 v Sorrento 1sts 1/181.

■ Peninsula Firsts. Mt Eliza 1sts 6/218 v Seaford CC 1sts 6/222. Long Island 1sts 10/ 101 v Somerville 1sts 8/182. Old Peninsula 1sts 4/166 v Balnarring 1sts 7/167. Rosebud 1sts 6/169 v Moorooduc 1sts 10/101.

■ District Firsts. Seaford Tigers 1sts 10/ 179 v Rye 1sts 9/198. Carrum Downs 1sts 6/ 125 v Crib Point 1sts 10/121. Main Ridge 1sts 4/264 v Flinders 1sts 10/238. Carrum CC 1sts 3/142 v Boneo 1sts 10/138.

■ Sub-District Firsts. Ballam Park 1sts 8/ 98 v Tyabb 1sts 3/100. Pearcedale 1sts 10/ 62 v Skye 1sts 7/203. Tootgarook 1sts 7/120 v Delacombe Park 1sts 10/116. Mt Martha 1sts 8/176 v Baxter 1sts 6/182. Bye: Frankston YCW 1st.

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. One Day. Preston Baseballers

CC 1st XI 9/255 v Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/141. Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI 6/ 277 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 8/292. Donath CC 1st XI 6/227 v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 4/204.

■ Jack Quick Shield. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/147 v Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 4/ 149. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 6/205 v Cameron CC 1st XI 9/147. West Preston CC 1st XI 10/150 v Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI 6/205.

■ Jack Kelly Shield. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI 10/155 v West Preston CC 2nd XI 7/170. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 8/134 v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 10/133. Fairfield CC 1st XI 9/139 v Preston YCW District 1st XI 3/140.

■ B-Grade. Wollert Rhinos CC 1st XI v Fairfield CC 2nd XI. West Preston CC 3rd XI Forfeit v Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI. Northern Socials CC 2s XI 0/44 v Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI 10/260.

■ C-Grade. Bellfield Bulls CC 4th XI 9/227 v Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI 2/228. Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI 6/166 v Royal Park Reds 4th XI 5/189. Fiji Victorian CC 4th XI 10/140 v Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI 5/ 201. Bye: Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI

■ Robert Young DODC. Cameron CC OD 8/299 v Donath CC OD 9/193. Preston YCW District OD 7/163. Camrea Stingrays CC OD 10/135. Olympic Colts CC OD 7/205 v Kinglake CC OD 5/193.

Ringwood District

■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two Days. Jan. 24 and 31. Norwood 1XI 9-d/162 v South Croydon 1XI 7/230. Ainslie Park 1XI 3-d/ 161 v Lilydale 1XI 10/160. North Ringwood 1XI 9/167 v St Andrews 1XI 9/214. Montrose 1XI 3/189 v Croydon Ranges 1XI 9/187.

■ Bill Wilkins Cup. Wantirna South 1XI 9/ 162 v Kilsyth 1XI 10/150. Warranwood 1XI 7/195 v East Ringwood 1XI 4/196. Mt Evelyn 1XI 5/209 v Mooroolbark 1XI 9/224. Bayswater Park 1XI 7/153 v Vermont 1XI 9/152. Heatherdale 1XI 8/232 v Wonga Park 1XI 9/145.

■ Stuart Newey Plate. Templeton 1XI 3/ 171 v Chirnside Park 1XI 8/170. South Warrandyte 1XI 6/232 v Seville Burras 1XI 10/197. Heathwood 1XI 10/122 v Healesville 1XI 2/125. Yarra Junction 1XI 10/148 v Warrandyte 1XI 7/180.

■ Steve Pascoe Shield. Croydon North 1XI 8/197 v North Ringwood 2XI 8/197. Warrandyte 2XI 10/95 v Montrose 2XI .4/97 South Croydon 2XI 3/130 v Norwood 2XI 10/128. East Ringwood 2XI 5/104 v Ainslie Park 2XI 10/103.

South East

■ Longmuir Shield. Two Days. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7. East Sandringham 1 6-d/357 v Brighton Union 1. Bentleigh Uniting 1 10/ 232 v West Bentleigh 1. Kingston Heath 1 9/280 v Washington Park 1. Le Page Park 1 9/296 v Bentleigh ANA 1.

■ Woolnough Shield. Mackie 1 10/269 v CHAG 1 2/19. Cheltenham Park 1 10/164 v Elwood 1 1/33. Carnegie South 1 10/324 v Hampton Central 1. Cluden 1 v Omega 1 4/ 138.

■ Quiney Shield. Omega 2 10/188 v Le Page Park 2 2/10. Washington Park 2 9/230 v Highett West 1. CUCC Kings 3 v Bentleigh Uniting 2 5/307. Hampton United 1 2/60 v East Sandringham 2 10/125.

■ Pullen Shield. East Bentleigh Central 1 10/176 v Cluden 2 1/22. Melbourne Wanderers 1 10/200 v Kingston Heath 2 0/12. Elwood 2 10/174 v Diamond 1 10/95. Brighton Union 2 10/101 & 1/29 v Mackie 2 5/102. ■ E-Grade. Southside East Caulfield 1 5/ 137 v CUCC Kings 4 10/91. Hampton Central 2 v Mackie 3 10/265. CHAG 2 v South East Oakleigh 1 10/128. Washington Park 3 v Le Page Park 3 9/278. Saturday, February 7: Melbourne Districts United 1 v East Bentleigh Central 2.

Western

■ A-Grade. Two Days. Jan. 31 and feb. 7. Altona Sports 1st XI 2/56 v Truganina Strikers CC Yellow 1st XI 10/144. Williams Landing SC 1st XI 10/317 v Tarneit Central 4th XI. West Point Titans 2nd XI 0/16 v Manor Lakes 2nd XI 10/281.

■ B-Grade. Glen Orden Thunder 6th XI 6d/267 v AA Tarneit 1st XI 4/47. Vic Bangladeshi SC 2nd XI 10/133. Wyndham Vale 3rd XI 5/171. Western Lions 1st XI 7d/303 v Point Cook 5th XI 1/7. Point Cook Centrals 3rd XI 10/229 v Altona Sports 2nd XI 1/4.

5-STAR RATING FOR GUEST HOUSE

■ This Saturday (Feb./ 7) at Caulfield , six more horses will qualify for a start in the $2 million Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes to be run a fortnight later.

The first three home in each of the male and female divisions of the Blue Diamond Prelude will earn an exemption from the ballot process.

Already guaranteed a start are Geelong Diamond winner Moana Spirit, as well as Blue Diamond Preview winners Alibaba (colts and geldings) and Rubi’s Choice (fillies).

However, because neither Preview winner was nominated for the Blue Diamond, their owners will be required to pay a late entry fee to be allowed to start in the race.

The remainder of the 16-horse field will be determined based on aggregate prizemoney, excluding restricted races such as the Magic Millions ; that race being confined to horses sold or passed-in at a Magic Millions Yearling Sale

Let’s look at the likely contenders, some of whom will compete in this week’s Preludes, as they head towards their major goal on February 21.

Colts and Geldings

Guest House

Joined the leaders three-wide early in what appeared to have been an unsuitable 1000 metres at Cranbourne and scored a soft win on debut.

This son of first-season sire Home Affairs carries the Roll The Dice Racin g colours, a boutique thoroughbred racing operation making it possible for people to share in racehorse ownership.

Trainers Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr rate him ahead of stablemate Big Sky and he appears to have an exciting future.

Mick Price is seeking his third Blue Diamond Stakes success, having previously put the polish on Samaready (2012) and Extreme Choice (2016).

Big Sky

Professional looking galloper and despite playing second fiddle to Guest House at his stable complex, has shown he should be right in the mix.

Unit Five

Two starts for two first-place finishes. Debuted at Caulfield over 1100 metres with a strong win. Followed up by taking out the 1200 metres Magic Millions 2yo Classic. Can’t fault that form.

High Alert

Extremely unlucky not to win a Blue Diamond Preview at his first test under race conditions and trained by Anthony and Sam Freedman.

Anthony won the 2019 Blue Diamond Stakes with Lyre, before the training partners won back-to-back Blue Diamond Stakes in 2021 and 2022 with Artorious and Daumier respectively.

Eurocanto

Was going to start favourite until having to be scratched at the barriers in the Blue Diamond Preview , so must be respected.

Trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes. Ben and JD trained Little Brose to win the 2023 Blue Diamond Stakes , while Ben was also a co-trainer of 2017 winner Catchy

Eternal Warrior

Rod Basto

Came from well back and wide to just grab Stretan Ruler on the line in the Merson Cooper Stakes at Caulfield over 1000 metres in late November, with Alibaba a close third. That form stands up.

Tough Romance

Yet to race but impressed in a jump out behind Eurocanto at Werribee , prompting some punters to support him in early markets.

Stretan Ruler

Three-wide with no cover in the Merson Cooper Stakes and just grabbed on the line by Eternal Warrior. Can’t be discounted on that effort.

Fillies

Highly rated filly trained by Grahame Begg , who won the 2018 Blue Diamond Stakes with Written By . Jacaranda

Only start was an easy winner at Seymour over 1100 metres in a field of three. Hard to gauge on that but is a halfsister to 2021 Blue Diamond Stakes winner Artorius , by Home Affairs , and is a nice type. She is also another contender trained by Ben, Will and JD Hayes Moana Spirit

Won on debut at Morphettville in Adelaide over 1000 metres prior to winning the Geelong Diamond over 1100 metres. Has settled back off the pace and powered home at both runs.

★

Victory in the Blue Diamond Previews or Preludes has proven in the past to be a stepping stone to Blue Diamond Stakes success.

In total, 21 horses have achieved this feat, with just five winning both lead-up races.

Rancher (1982), Midnight Fever (1987), Bel Esprit (2002), Sepoy (2011) and Hyasugi (2024) are the quintet who were able to rack up this hat-trick of wins.

While the Blue Diamond Stakes has been run since 1971 when Tolerance triumphed, these key precursor events were only introduced in 1982.

Horses To Follow

■ Cafe Millenium

■ Military Tycoon

■ Mr Bannock

■ Salty Pearl

■ Trapper John

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, February 4: Sandown Lakeside

■ Thursday, February 5: Pakenham

■ Friday, February 6: Colac, Cranbourne

■ Saturday, February 7: Caulfield, Yarra Valley, Woolamai

■ Sunday, February 8: Wangaratta, Ararat

■ Monday, February 9: Caulfield Heath

■ Tuesday, February 10: Kyneton

SUMMER CARNIVAL IN FULL SWING

■ Harness Racing Victoria’s Summer Carnival is in full swing with the $100,000 Decron Cranbourne (Group 1) Gold Cup last Saturday (January 31) following three of the big five – those already held have been the Bendigo, Shepparton and Ballarat.

Let’s have a look at what’s happened to date:

Bendigo

■ The Bendigo Cup was transferred to Melton due to the extreme heat expected on Saturday January 10 and it was 11yo Art Official-My Riviera Girl gelding Bulletproof Boy a giant killer of the 1609 metre dash for Cranbourne part-owner/trainer Scott Ewen.

Driven by James Herbertson, Bulletproof Boy (gate two second line) enjoyed a sweet passage one/two as NSW hope Hi Manameisjeff (gate three) crossed polemarker Petracca shortly after the start.

When Kingman another from NSW vacated the prime one/one position to move three wide approaching the final bend, he looked the winner, with Petracca gaining an inside passage to momentarily lead on turning and Bulletproof Boy following Kingman home.

Switching to the sprint lane in the straight, Bulletproof Boy blowsed Petracca by 1.7 metres in a mile rate of 1-51.2 track record.

Kingman was third 2.1 metres back.

Shepparton

■ Champions of the day have won the Shepparton Gold Cup over the years, horses such as Last Command, Raiamagh Pool, Bold David, Just Too Good, Royal Gaze, Popular Alm, Quite Famous, Tailamade Lombo, Sokyola, Sting Lika Bee and Hector Jay Jay to name just a few.

The race which attracts a massive crowd and did again on Saturday January 17 featured two of Australia’s best in Kingman and multi millionaire Leap To Fame in a disappointing field of five and it was Kingman too superior.

Trained and driven by Cobbity (NSW) horseman Luke McCarthy for owner/ breeder Mick Harvey who has enjoyed plenty of success with both harness horses and gallopers, Kingman a Kiwi bred 5Y0 stallion by Always B Miki from Gotta Go Dali Queen had little difficulty in leading from the pole over the 2660 metre journey leaving Leap To Fame (gate three) in the open.

Dropping to trail at the bell, Leap To Fame came away from the inside to be outside Kingman running into the final bend as the leader kicked on turning appearing to have the race in his keeping.

In quarters of 27.9, 28.6, 28.5 and 27.2 following a lead time of 77.9 seconds, Kingman returned a brilliant mile rate of 1-53.7 to obliterate the track record of 155.6 held by Spirit Of St Louis in 2022. The winning margin was 2.9 metres clear of Leap To Fame who wasn’t disgraced by any stretch of imagination. Our Luciano (gate four – one/one last half) was third 43.1 metres away.

Trotters Cup

■ It was a highly elated local (Congupna) owner/trainer Eddie Tappe who was victorious in the Trotters Cup with one of the most improved horses in the last 12 months 7Y0 Majestic Son-Aldebaran Peggy gelding Im Bobby.

In what was without doubt the ‘drive of the night’ by James Herbertson, Im Bobby after leading from gate two kept the hot favourite Arcee Phoenix (gate four) working outside him at various stages in the 2690 metre feature, before giving Im Bobby full rein on turning to greet the judge by a 13.8 metre margin over Arcee Phoenix who didn’t shark the task. Gotfeelingsyouknow (outside front line) went three wide from the tail in the last lap for a respectable third albeit 5.8 metres away.

In quarters of 30.2, 30.9, 27.7 and 28.6 after a lead time of 80.5 seconds, Im Bobby returned a mile rate of 1-59.6.

Adding more joy to a big payout on the night, Eddie owned, trained and drove 8Y0 Majestic Son-Aldebaran Peggy mare Abbie to land the $12,000 Goodfellows GV Re-

gional Trotters Cup Final over 2190 metres. Starting from gate two on the second line, Eddie wasted no time in sending Abbie forward to race exposed outside the pacemaker Hillwinsome and Abbie outstayed her rivals to record a half neck margin from poleliner Suzys Dream (three pegs) which flashed late along the sprint lane.

The favourite With Aplomb (one/one from the extreme draw – three wide last lap) was third a nose away in a thrilling finish. The mile rate 2-03.2.

Next Saturday will be Ballarat Cup Night and it will be interesting to see who lines up in the $100,000 feature.

Ballarat

■ The knockers were out in force on Saturday January 25 with many reasons why Australasia’s champion pacer Leap To Fame couldn’t win the Pacing Cup even though he was a short priced favourite at $1-55 after drawing outside the front line, whereas his main danger last weeks raging hot Shepparton Gold Cup victor Kingman had to contend with a solo second line draw.

When the gate pulled away polemarker Mach Dan showed his customary speed to lead from Catch A Wave (gate two) which dropped to his back with Grant Dixon and Leap To Fame going forward three wide while Kingman settled three back along the markers being followed by Triple Eight and Forty Love. Giant killer Bulletproof Boy (Bendigo Cup victor) had no luck from gate five being left exposed being followed by Dee Roe.

Running into the first turn Leap To Fame crossed Mach Dan pushing those trailing back a spot as the field made formation.

Coming away from the markers to race uncovered prior to the bell, Kingman moved to join Leap To Fame with Bulletproof Boy now getting a breather one/one. Dee Roe and Forty Love remained at the rear.

Moving to get on terms with Leap To Fame in the back straight on the final occasion, Kingman was immediately put under pressure and racing untractable running into the final bend as Leap To Fame raced away to score by 11.4 metres from the Aaron Dunn stablemates Dee Roe out wide and Forty Love inside him 1.2 metres in arrears who both ran the race of their lives. Kingman was a head away fourth and Bulletproof Boy fifth a further metre away.

In quarters of 29.1, 28.7, 26.4 and 27.5 after a lead time of 80.9 seconds, Leap To Fame registering his 62nd success from 80 outings for over five million dollars in stakes.

A 7Y0 Bettor’s Delight-Lettucereason entire, Leap To Fame returned a 1-54.4 mile rate taking 4 tenths of a second off Smolda’s track record set in 2017.

$75,00 (Group 2) Harwood Grains Ballarat Trotters Cup – 2200 metres. It was nothing more than a ‘stroll in the park’ for the Marg & Paddy Lee trained outstanding home bred 5Y0 VolsteadKeayang Yankee mare Keayang Zahara ($1-04) in the Trotters Cup.

Raced by the Levarg Racing Group managed by John Craven which consists of many family members, Keayang Zahara (gate six) with Jason Lee in the sulky began safely from gate six as David Miles’ Rockinwithattitude (gate four) exploded

away to lead with ease. Taking over in the back straight on the first occasion, Keayang Zaraha coasted for the rest of the journey to register an untouched 11 metre victory over Rockinwithattitude, with Arcee Phoenix a game third a head away after racing exposed for the last mile.

In quarters of 31.4, 30.3, 27.7 and 26.9 after a lead time of 43.4 seconds, Keayang Zahara beaten only once in 23 outings returned a 1-56.8 mile rate looking set to win the $500,000 bonus for taking the three remaining races in the series – Cranbourne, Kilmore and Great Southern Star on February 14.

Loddon, Wedderburn

■ It was Wedderburn Pacing and Trotting Cup Day on Sunday January 25 with plenty of interest in the meeting.

The 2555 metre Pacing Cup going to 10Y0 Sportswriter-Our Crime Of Passion gelding Crime Writer bred and raced by Pam Coniglio and late husband Tony.

Trained at Ecklin South by Mattie Craven and driven by Hannah Lewis who won last years Mildura Pacing Cup on him Crime Writer began best from the pole to lead with Echuca Cup victor Madigan (outside the front line) outside him, Curyo Gentleman (gate two) one/one and the outsider Pas Guarantee following the leader from inside the second line. The favourite Pesci (extreme draw) had been eased to the tail of the field.

Looking vulnerable on turning with Madigan issuing a strong challenge, Crime Writer rallied in the straight to score by 3.9 metres from Madigan. with Curyo Gentleman angling three wide to challenge only

Raymond Island death

■ Police will prepare a report for the Coroner following the death of a man at Raymond Island on Sunday morning (Feb. 1).

Emergency services were called to Raymond Island about 4.30am after reports a man had fallen into the water from a boat which was approximately 30 metREs from shore.

Another occupant from the boat kept the man afloat until police arrived and he was brought to shore.

Emergency services performed CPR on the man but he could not be revived.

Norlane crash fatality

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash which occurred in Norlane

Emergency services were called to Barcelona St about 4.50am on Sunday (Feb. 1) after reports a motorcycle crashed into a parked car. The male rider was treated at the scene but died.

Burglary: 4 charged

■ Police have arrested four people following an aggravated burglary in Wantirna South on Saturday morning (Jan. 31)

It is alleged that four offenders entered a Wallace St property around 4am.

The residents, a woman and her three young children, were awoken by the

This Week

■ Wednesday – Maryborough/Mildura, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Bendigo, Saturday – Kilmore (Cup), Sunday –Cranbourne, Monday – Stawell, Tuesday Shepparton.

to go off stride, but probably wasn’t going to pick up the winner finishing 1.5 metres back third. Dhaulagiri ran on late out wide for third 5.1 metres away. The mile rate 200.7.

Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley and stable reinsman Tristan Larsen who has been on fire of late snared another provincial Trotters Cup with 8Y0 Simon Roydon-Johns Anne gelding Johns Boy successful.

Beginning fast 20 metres, Johns Boy avoided a couple of gallopers Romantic Nina and A Cool Investment shortly after the start to cross the poleline leader Im Above The Law and rated a treat, held too many guns for the hot favourite Meadow Valley Star (20m) which raced uncovered looking uncomfortable on the tight track. Im Above The Law using the sprint lane held third a half head away. The mile rate 2-07.1 (last half 61.3).

Len Baker

Latest News

sound of their vehicle being driven out of the driveway.

No one was physically injured during the incident.

Local police, with the support of Operation Trinity and the Critical Incident Response Team, conducted extensive patrols of the area and located a stolen vehicle on Mount Dandenong Rd in Croydon around 5am.

The vehicle attempted to avoid police, at which point stop sticks were deployed, immobilising the car.

The offenders fled and were arrested after a short foot pursuit

Croydon Divisional Response Unit and Crime Reduction Team charged the offenders with aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle.

A 15-year-old male and two 17-year-old males from the Yarra Ranges area and a 15-year-old from the Maroondah area were remanded to appear in a Children’s Court at a later date.

Car driven at officers

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a 37year-old man after it is alleged a car crashed into a school bus whilst attempting to evade police, then drove at officers in Newtown on Thursday (Jan. 29).

Police spotted the Kia Optima , allegedly stolen from NSW, near the intersection of Princes Hwy and Roebuck St about 3.40pm.

With Air Wing monitoring above, police units on the ground attempted to intercept the vehicle.

The Kia allegedly attempted to flee the scene and reversed into a school bus.

The occupants on the bus were not injured.

It is alleged the Kia then drove at police, where one officer discharged their firearm.

The Kia collided with another car before the two occupants fled on foot and were arrested nearby.

The female driver of the civilian vehicle was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Detectives charged the male driver, of no fixed address, with: ■ aggravated intentional exposure to emergency worker to risk by driving ■ 2 x conduct endangering serious injury

■ drive manner dangerous

■ criminal damage

■ theft of motor vehicle

■ bring stolen goods into Victoria

He was remanded in custody to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court.

Detectives also charged the passenger, a 43-yearold NSW woman, with handle stolen goods.

She was bailed to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on March 31. The investigation remains ongoing with Professional Standards Command oversight, as is standard practice when a police firearm is discharged.

Fire call at

Tarneit

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to an incident in Trinity Place, Tarneit at 6.33pm Friday after multiple callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a house fire. Crews arrived on scene within six minutes to find the two-storey brick home and attached garage fully involved in fire.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Form 2

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

The application reference number is: P25/1533

The Land affected by the application is located at: 5 THE HEADS MOUNT MARTHA LOT 337 PS 401619 VOL 10673 FOL 591

The application is for a permit to: DEVELOPMENT OF A DOUBLE STOREY DWELLING AND VARIATION OF COVENANT AC677651P ON LOT 337 ON PLAN OF SUBDIVISION 401619S, VOLUME 10673 FOLIO 591 BY AMENDING RESTRICTIONS 1, 5, 6, 8 AND 16 AS FOLLOWS (UNDERLINED = ADDITIONAL WORDING TO BE ADDED; STRIKETHROUGH = DELETION OF WORDS):

1. ERECT OR BUILD OR SUFFER TO BE ERECTED OR BUILT ON ANY LOT OR ANY PART OR PARTS THEREOF MORE THAN ONE PRIVATE DWELLING (TOGETHER WITH ASSOCIATED OUTBUILDINGS) UNLESS COPIES OF BUILDING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS SHOWING ELEVATION, SITING, SET BACKS, COLOURS, MATERIALS, LANDSCAPING DESIGN, AND FENCING HAVE FIRST BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE TRANSFEROR OR TO THE HEADLAND WATERS REVIEW PANEL AND THE TRANSFEROR OR THE HEADLAND WATERS REVIEW PANEL HAVE GIVEN THEIR APPROVAL TO THE PLANS PRIOR TO THE ISSUE OF BUILDING PERMITS. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE SINGLE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

5. ALLOW ANY DWELLING OR OTHER BUILDING TO BE BUILT OUTSIDE THE NOMINATED BUILDING ENVELOPE, UNLESS IT IS A BELOW GROUND STRUCTURE. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

6. CONSTRUCT OR ERECT A DWELLING OR OTHER TYPE OF BUILDING, UNLESS IT IS WITHIN THE THREE-DIMENSIONAL BUILDING ENVELOPE ON TITLE, AS DESCRIBED IN ATTACHMENT “A” TO BE TRANSFERRED WITH TITLE. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

8. ALLOW THE MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF ANY STRUCTURE TO EXCEED THE MAXIMUM HEIGHT CONTROL AS DETAILED IN THE THREE DIMENSIONAL BUILDING ENVELOPE ON TITLE. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE DWELLING AND ASSOCIATED WORKS DETAILED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533.

16. PERMIT ANY SWIMMING POOL, OUTDOOR SPA OR WADING POOL TO BE CONSTRUCTED WHERE IT WOULD BE VISIBLE FROM A ROAD WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE SWIMMING POOL LOCATION NOTED IN THE ENDORSED PLAN OF PLANNING PERMIT P25/1533 AND IS NOT SEPARATELY FENCED RESTRICTING MINORS.

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSEMATTERS FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

CLAUSE 52.02

CLAUSE 43.02-2 (DDO 3)

VARY A RESTRICTION

CONSTRUCT A BUILDING OR CONSTRUCT OR CARRY OUT WORKS (DWELLING)

The applicant for the permit is: TIMBERDALE PTY LTD

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 16 FEBRUARY 2026

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

PUBLIC NOTICES

Packaged liquor licence application

Midas Food Industry Pty Ltd (Trade name: Fresh Central Fruits) applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 6 January 2026 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at 209 High Street, Ashburton VIC 3147. Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that: it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated; and/or it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents.

Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria GPO Box 4356 Melbourne VIC 3001

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

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Buying and selling, promoting a business, advertising a job vacancy, or publishing a Public Notice, you can do it all in The Local Paper Classifieds

You can reach people in every Melbourne suburb, across the Mornington Peninsula, and in selected Victorian country areas. In print AND online.

It’s economical too. Line ads start at just $20 for 20 words, then $1 per word. Or create impact with a display ad. Speak with an Ad-visor by phoning 9489 2222.

We Luca & Amy Pty Ltd applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 13/08/2025 for the variation of a packaged liquor licence for Foodworks Wantirna South-Knoxgate of 1324 High St Road, Wantirna South VIC 3152 to vary the trading hours to:

• Sunday Between 10am and 11pm

• Anzac Day Between 12 noon and 11pm

• On any other day Between 9am and 11pm

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:

• it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or

• it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol.

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents.

Objections must be made in writing to:

Liquor Control Victoria GPO Box 4356, Melbourne VIC 3001

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

PROPOSAL TO INSTALL A MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION ON THE EXISTING MONOPOLE AT MICKLEHAM VIC 3064

1. Telstra is proposing to install a mobile phone base station on the existing 40m Monopole at 2238 MICKLEHAM ROAD, MICKLEHAM, VIC 3064

2. In summary, this upgrade will comprise of:

• Installing (9) 4G/5G Panel Antennas on a new headframe on the monopole

• Installing ancillary equipment

• There will be no increase in height to the facility

3. We invite you to provide your feedback or request further information by contacting us at: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422 685 472, PO BOX 586, Elsternwick VIC 3185, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au. We will accept submissions until 5pm on Thursday 19th of February 2026.

4. For more information, please visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3064026

Telstra Limited A.C.N 086 174 781 Acquirecomm Pty Ltd A.C.N: 603 876 240

Local government in Victoria has been in operation for over 180 years, with its foundations dating back to the early 1840s.

From the very start, the best local Councils have used local press to keep residents informed about their activities.

Public notices, employment ads, pages with news of Council activities.

Does your local Council publish ads in The Local Paper? Does your local Council practice what it preaches about transparency and clarity?

Does your local Council advertise locally? Does it hide its ads in the daily newspapers - at unnecessary expense?

Smart Councils use The Local Paper to best serve local people.

Shooting at Cobden

■ Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a man following a shooting in Cobden.

The 26-year-old was arrested with the assistance of the Special Operations Group outside an address in Terang Detectives seized ammunition and a taser following the execution of a warrant and subsequent search of the Swanston St property.

The Cobden man has been charged with intentionally and recklessly cause injury, reckless conduct endanger serious injury, use firearm contrary to firearm prohibition order, prohibited person possess firearm, possess ammunition and prohibited weapon, commit indicatable offence whilst on bail and drive whilst disqualified.

He was remanded to appear at Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court on May 15.

The charges follow an investigation into an incident on Tuesday, January 20, where a woman was found injured at a Mitchell St home in Cobden about 6pm.

The 33-year-old woman was treated for a non-life-threatening gunshot injury.

Those involved are known to one another, Police said.

Blitz on Peninsula

■ Police on the Mornington Peninsula have fined 94 jet ski riders and boaties during a dedicated operation over the past two months.

Officers on boats, jet skis and at the controls of drones identified riders engaging in acts such as operating too close to shore, speeding in restricted zones close to swimmers, and riding unlicensed or unsupervised.

Some 17 fines were issued for operating a vessel exceeding 5knots within 200m of the water’s edge, while one was caught too close to a structure in inland waters.

Three people were fined for speeding within 50 metres of swimmers.

Among those caught were:

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT UPPER PLENTY

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station tower at 1480 Wallan-Whittlesea Road, Upper Plenty VIC 3756.

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of the removal of (3) three existing panel antennas with the installation of (6) six new 4G/5G panel antennas (2533 x 350 x 208mm) 30m above ground level. This upgrade also includes the Installation of associated auxiliary

3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.

4. Please direct comments to Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra at planning.vic@servicestream.com.au, 0477 962 725 or by post to: Service Stream (Wireless) - Level 11, 2 Wentworth Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150 by 5pm Wednesday 18 February 2026.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/3756001

Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46 072 369 870 Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781

$400,000 robbery

■ Boroondara Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after more than $400,000 of paintings and jewellery were stolen from a woman’s home in Kew.

The victim’s brother attended the property on December 28 and noticed the front door off its hinges and a number of items missing. It is believed unknown offender/s attended the Stevenson St property several times and stolen paintings, jewellery and other property worth in excess of $400,000.

The items are believed to have been stolen between December 24, 2024, and December 28, 2025 while the victim was away from the residence for an extended period.

Items stolen include:

■ a John Percivil ‘Sunflowers’ painting worth more than $75,000

■ three Criss Canning paintings worth between $30,000 and $50,000 each

■ two antique Chinese paintings worth more than $10,000 each

■ a pearl strand worth more than $50,000

Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have noticed suspicious activity in the area or recognises any of the items stolen to come forward.

‘P’ driver blows .213

■ A P2 probationary licenced driver has lost his licence and had his car impounded after blowing more than four times the legal limit in Maddingley on Friday, January 23.

Police were called to reports of a silver MG hatch driving erratically on the Western Fwy in Melton South about 9.40pm. Officers intercepted the vehicle a short time later and spoke with the driver on Stonehill Drive in Maddingley.

The 23-year-old driver returned a positive preliminary breath test and was taken to a police station where he returned an alleged evidentiary reading of .213.

■ A 23-year-old man from Jacana was allegedly caught speeding on a jet ski too close to swimmers, whilst unlicensed. He was issued an infringement notice for operating a vessel without a marine licence, operating a vessel at a speed exceeding 5 knots within 50 metres of a person, and operating a vessel without compulsory safety equipment. He was fined $1679.

■ A 16-year-old boy from the northern suburbs was intercepted by police after alleged dangerous behaviour on a jet ski at Safety Beach. Checks revealed the boy was operating a hired vessel and allegedly failed to provide police with information on the owner of the jet ski. He was fined $1113 for exceeding 5 knots within 50 metres of a person and 200m of the shore.

These riders are among almost 90 fined, with other issues identified including not carrying the correct safety equipment and being onboard the watercraft while being towed on land.

The man’s licence was immediately suspended for a period of 12 months and he is expected to be charged on summons with several traffic offences.

His vehicle was also impounded for 30 days at a cost $1175.

The impound forms part of Operation Amity , a statewide road policing operation.

Athlone fatality

■ Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal crash at Athlone on the afternoon of Australia Day (Mon., Jan. 26). A vehicle was travelling along Invermay Rd when it struck a tree about 5.20pm.

The female driver, who was the sole occupant, died at the scene. Officers will prepare a report for the coroner.

Anyone who witnessed the crash, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au