The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Jul. 29, 2026

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2026

Slower speeds on Glenburn Rd

■ Murrindindi Council says that is waiting on a State Government department to approive a 40-kmh limit on Kinglake-Glenburn

The Council has developed a proposal that combines speed limit reductions with targeted infrastructure improvements designed to improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

“The proposal to reduce speed limits and improve safety along this section of road has

been under development since July 2025 and has involved consultation with the local community, Victoria Police, the Transport Accident Commission and the Department of Transport and Planning

The proposal is now awaiting approval from the Department of Transport and Planning for the proposed speed limit changes. The Department is the responsible authority for approving speed limit changes.

$60,000 FINE FOR MILLION DOLLAR DUMP

■ Diamond Creek property owner Joseph Chetcutti has been fined $60,000 and ordered to clean up the mess, expected to cost more than $1 million.

The case went before Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court last Tuesday (July 21), and was described by Environment Protection Authority CEO Joss Crawford as a “brazen and highly organised criminal waste dumpring operation”.

Mr Chetcuti pleaded guilty to depositing industrial waste without authorisation and failing to comply with an environmental action notice. He must also pay $12,098 in legal costs.

An ABC report by Ethan White described as one of Victoria’s worst illegal dump sites.

Fire crews sent to the property found that industrial waste was being burnt off without authorisation. Asbestos was found wihin the soil at the property.

The Environment Protection Authority said that Mr Chetcuti failed to comply with notices. Further investigations are being made into the trucking companies and vehicles used to transport the waste to the Diamond Creek property.

A Nillumbik Shire representative said: “Council acknowledges the significant work undertaken by EPA Victoria as the lead agency responsible for investigating and enforcing illegal waste dumping offences. We also thank Victoria Police, CFA members and Council officers who have worked on this matter over an extended period.”

News Briefs

This Weekend

Saturday, August 1

■ Bnedigo. Broadford v Strathfieldsaye. Eaglehawk v Gisborne. Sandhurst v South Bendigo. Golden Square v Kangaroo Flat. Bye: Castlemaine.

■ Goulburn Valley. Tatura v Shepparton United. Shepparton v Benalla. Echuca v Seymour. Shepparton Swans v Rochester. Mansfield v Kyabram. Mooroopna v Euroa.

■ Kyabram District. Girgarre v Stanhope. Shepparton East v Rushworth. Merrigum v Violet Town. Longwood v Lancaster. Avenel v Tallygaroopna. Undera v Murchison-Toolamba. Bye: Nagambie.

■ Northern. Division 1. Eltham v Banyule. Heidelberg v Bundoora. Diamond Creek v West Preston Lakeside. Hurstbridge v North Heidelberg. Greensborough v Montmorency.

■ Northern. Division 2. Panton Hill v Macleod. Northcote Park v Old Paradians. Fitzroy Stars v South Morang. Thomastown v St Mary’s. Lower Plenty v Whittlesea.

■ Northern. Division 3. Reservoir v Heidelberg West. Watsonia v Kilmore. Ivanhoe v Laurimar. Lalor v Mernda. Bye: Epping, Kinglake, Old Eltham Collegians.

■ Outer East. Premier Division. Wandin v Healesville. Upwey Tecoma v Woori Yallock. Gembrook Cockatoo v Officer. Warburton Millgrove v Olinda Ferny Creek. Mt Evelyn v Monbulk.

■ Outer East. Division 1. Powelltown v Emerald. Yarra Glen v Alexandra. Yea v Seville. Pakenham v Yarra Junction. Bye: Belgrave.

■ Ovens & King. Greta v Benalla All Blacks. North Wangaratta v Milawa. Bright v Tarrawingee. Bonnie Doon v King Valley. Moyhu v Goorambat. Bye: Whorouly.

■ Riddell District. Kyneton v Melton South. Woodend-Hesket v Romsey. Wallan v Lancefield. Melton Centrals v Macedon. ARiddell v Diggers Rest. Bye: Gisborne Giants.

Infrastructure Fund

■ The latest funding round of the Mansfield Shire Council Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund is open. Community groups can apply for up to $15,000 to support local infrastructure projects, with the 2026-27 Outlying Communities Infrastructure Fund is open until October 12.

This grant supports outlying communities to develop or improve facilities that boost liveability, resilience and connectivity across the shire. Each community group can apply for up to $15,000 from a total funding pool of $60,000.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the $60,000 Council allocated to outlying communities through this grant goes a long way and delivers positive outcomes throughout the shire.

"It is remarkable to see community groups getting involved to add to the quality of life in their shire," he said.

Successful 2025-26 round applicants include:

■ Barjarg Community Group – community shelter at the Barjarg CFA site

■ Bonnie Doon Community Group – Billy's House

■ Delatite Valley Association – mural celebrating 100 years of the Merrijig CFA at the CFA site

■ Peppin Hub Inc – fluid and environmental testing for the future community centre site

"The projects from the 2025-2026 funding round will add real value for the community for years to come. If you have an idea for a project your community needs, please let us know," Cr Rabie said.

Community groups with a draft project idea are invited to a workshop with Council officers ahead of applying, where they can get guidance on how their project might benefit from planning, infrastructure or community development expertise.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2026

FIRST TIMER CEO FOR WHITTLESEA

■ Dan Hogan - a local government executive with a history of middle level manager jobs at Melton, Brimbank and Kingston Councils - will become the next CEO of the City of Whittlesea.

Mr Hogan starts at Whittlesea on September 1. This will be his first time as a CEO.

Mr Hogan has most recently been the General Manager, Customer and Corporate Support at the City of Kingston , based at Moorabbin.

Mr Hogan spent six years at the City of Melton, rising to Manager of Engagement and Advocacy.

At Brimbank for four years, he was Director of Advocacy, Partnerships and Community Engagement

Mr Hogan replaces Craig Lloyd, who moved to Joondalup, Western Australia.

Whittlesea Mayor Cr Lawrie Cox said: "The appointment of Dan Hogan marks an exciting new chapter for the City of Whittlesea

STUDENTS CONFINED AS POLICE CHASE MAN

■ Police arrested a 39 year old male in Alexandra on Friday (July 24) following a pursuit requiring stop sticks being deployed.

The driver continued to drive the Nissan X Trail on flat tyres and then ran from Police on foot.

The Police helicopter was deployed to help the Police Dog Squad track the man who was wanted in relation to drug and stolen vehicle offences.

Police kept students at the nearby Alexandra Secondary College inside during lunch time while the offender was being tracked and apprehended by the Dog Squad and local Police from Alexandra and Marysville.

The helicopter circled over Alexandra for nearly an hour. One local resident in Rose St overheard Police arresting the man, according to a UGFM report.

Police said that a man was arrested in Albert St following the incident and remained in custody for interview.

Council Rounds

Glenburn safety

■ Proposed works on Kinglake-Glenburn Rd and West Bridge Rdinclude:

■ extending the existing 50-kmh speed zone further north past the Orchards Rd intersection

■ reducing the speed limit from 80-kmh to 60-kmh in areas with closer property frontages

■ reducing the speed limit from 100-kmh to 80-kmh on winding sections of the road

■ installing additional guideposts, curve warning signs and advisory speed signage to improve visibility of sub-standard curves sealing the bell-mouth at the Orchards Rd intersection

■ introducing kerb and channel adjacent to the shared path near Thomson Lane and Hawkins Drive to improve separation between cyclists and traffic, subject to available project funding.

Victoria Police endorsed the speed limit changes, and the project received funding approval from the TAC in January.

The proposal is now awaiting approval from the Department of Transport and Planning for the proposed speed limit changes.

Playspaces open

■ Yarra Ranges Council has reopened three renewed playspaces in Mooroolbark and Mount Evelyn, and a new space in Kilsyth

The Council finished construction on new playgrounds in Bimbadeen Reserve in Mooroolbark, Mount Evelyn Recreation Reserve and Kemp Reserve in Mount Evelyn , along with a new playspace at Kilsyth Recreation Reserve.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said the playspaces would encourage community members to get active outdoors.

“I’m excited to announce that these playgrounds have opened - we know there were plenty of young locals itching for the fences to come down,” Cr Higgins said.

“Through our engagement process, the community told us they wanted to see features like nature play, accessible equipment, shade, seating, and climbing equipment, with an emphasis on improving accessibility for people of different ages and abilities.

“I’m pleased to say that each of these projects responds to what we heard and will be great places for friends and families to meet for a catch up, a chat, or a play.

“With our communities growing, playspaces and community parks are more important than ever to encourage physical activity, play and exercise, and to provide spaces for socialising.”

Bimbadeen Reserve’s upper playspace includes a swing set, spinner, combination unit with timber elements and monkey bars.

Local Briefs

Tallarook 50 celebrates milestone

■ The 50th Anniversary of Rogaining (24hour cross-country navigation)will be held with Championships on September 25-26 at the Tallarook Plateau

This is where the sport of rogaining started in 1976 and has since spread to all states of Australia and over 30 countries

Course setters Alaster Meehan and Paul Monks have completed the initial setting of the course of 60-80 controls on private and public land.

Next stage is underway of independently checking each control for accuracy and safety. The course provides challenges for the best and plenty of encouragement for beginners.

Control sites are marked by tape, before electronic markers will be placed in September for use during the event.

“We would be grateful if landowners do see any of these, please basically ignore them,” said the organisers. “Base camp setup will happen during the final week of September with some tents, portaloos, catering facilities and the start / finish arrangements being completed.

“Numerous landowners have been approached and have generously offered their land to use as part of the 24-hour course.

“We thank all those who are offering land access and other support for rogaining. We do not enter private property without landholder permission, and we make areas outof-bounds if we cannot locate owners.”

More than 300 entrants are expected in teams of two or three and from ages of late teens to over 70s. Options are offered including a 6-hour, 15-hour and the 48th Victorian Rogaining Championships of 24 hours.

Everyone will start at 12 noon and quickly separate on their own selected courses through State Forest, open farmland, some thicker bush and steeper country off the sides of the Tallarook Plateau

There will be an award ceremony after 12 Noon Saturday then the cleaning and pack-up starts around the base camp. The electronic controls are then collected, rubbish taken home and equipment retrieved.

Members of the local community are welcome to enter one of the events or visit over the weekend to learn what goes on.

After its humble beginning at Tallarook in 1976, the sport of rogaining has spread to all Australian States and then to over 30 countries. It involves a cross-country navigation event for teams using map and compass, and the championship event lasts for 24 hours.

At Alexandra

■ “The Grant Street Safety and Streetscape Improvement Plan is progressing with community consultation taking place during August to improve safety, accessibility and the overall town centre experience,” Cr Eric Lording has told Murrindindi Council.

“Officers will support the community to have a say via online and in-person opportunities.

“Community feedback will help Council prepare the Grant Street Improvement Plan to guide future investment, project development and funding opportunities.”

Reserve upgrades

■ The Kinglake Memorial Reserve Oval Redevelopment project is progressing with contractors commencing works on June9, Murrindindi Councillors have been advised.

Despite wet weather, works are progressing on schedule. The playing surface is unavailable until March 2027 while new turf establishes.

The Thornton Recreation Reserve Lighting and Scoreboard Upgrade procurement process is in the final stages. Delivery is expected by end of 2026. The project will enhance participant safety and encourage increased usage.

The Alexandra Community Relief and Leisure Centre re-development concept design was completed in 2025-26, and the Council is actively seeking funding to progress this to construction readiness through detailed design documentation preparation.

The Yea Movement & Place Study draft report is currently under review and nearing completion.

● ● ● ● Mitchell Shire Council has officially sworn in the 15h Mitchell Youth Council, welcoming back Elaina Harrison, River Challis, Phoebe McDonald, Jess Stevens as Youth Secretary, Jacob Hard as elected Deputy Youth Mayor and Evie Birks as elected Youth Mayor. A special welcome was given to first term Youth Councillors, Allison Bickerdike, Dusty Norton, Cooper Sargeant and Charlotte Enever.

Council

TIME TO ‘RE-SHAPE’ LOCAL LIBRARIES

■ Murrindindi Shire Council is inviting the community to help shape the future of one of Victoria's highest-performing rural library services, with community consultation now open on the Library Strategy and Action Plan 20272030.

Last year alone, Murrindindi Library Service welcomed more than 70,000 visits, delivered almost 78,000 loans and downloads and attracted more than 8000 people to library programs.

While books remain at the heart of the service, today's libraries are also places where people learn new skills, connect with others, access technology, attend events and find trusted information and support.

Murrindindi Council is now asking the community to help guide how library services continue to evolve over the next four years.

The new Strategy will build on the strengths of today's service, helping Council understand what the community values most and ensuring Murrindindi's libraries continue to reflect local needs while making the best use of resources into the future.

Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the new Strategy presented an opportunity to build strengthen an already successful service while ensuring it continues to meet the changing needs of the community.

New chapter

"Our libraries are among Council's highestperforming and most valued services, and we're incredibly proud of what they deliver for our community every day."

"They're places where children discover the joy of reading, students study, people learn new digital skills, community groups come together and residents connect with one another. They're about much more than books.

"Now we're asking our community to help write the next chapter of their library. Whether you visit every week, every now and then, or have never used our library service before, we'd love to hear your ideas."

Manager Customer Experience Anna Cullen said the Strategy was being developed from a position of strength.

"Community feedback consistently tells us our libraries are welcoming, trusted and highly valued places, while independent benchmarking shows Murrindindi continues to perform exceptionally well compared with library services across Victoria."

"This isn't about fixing something that's broken. It's about understanding what our community values most, responding to changing needs and identifying opportunities to continue delivering an outstanding library service into the future."

"One of the greatest strengths of Murrindindi Library Service is the partnerships the support it. They help us understand local needs, deliver diverse programs and create welcom-

More Beveridge buses

■ Public Transport Victoria is running more Route 511 bus services from this week, for longer hours, reaching more of Mandalay Estate for the first time.

Route 511 connects Beveridge and Mandalay to Craigieburn Station.

The changes include:

■ 322 new weekly trips

■ Buses roughly every 40 minutes, all week

■ Longer operating hours:

Weekdays: 5.30am–10.40pm

Saturdays: 6.55am–10.40pm

Sundays: 7.35am–9.30pm

Full coverage of Mandalay Circuit, gives residents in the north of Mandalay Estate a bus service for the first time

All services are wheelchair accessible Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said the new service was excellent news for a community that had waited too long for reliable public transport.

Births up 19%

■ Maternal Child Health 2025-26 data profiles a big year for Murrindindi, says Cr Eric Lording.

There were 138 birth notices for 2025/26, an increase of 19 per cent compared to 2024/ 25

Somer 55 vulnerable families were supported. There were 10 child developmental assessments coordinated with external Pediatric Occupational Therapists to enable families to access the support required.

ing spaces where people can learn, connect and belong."

“Council is seeking feedback from library users and non-users alike to better understand how people use library services - or why they don't the programs, collections and spaces that matter most barriers to accessing library services; opportunities to strengthen lea.

$68,640 taxpayer funds given to Standard-Chronicle

■ The new owners of the AlexandraStandard and TheYeaChroniclewill receive $1,280,994 over the next three years in Federal Governments grants money.

The Provincial Press group of Wang-aratta, controlled by Hartley Higgins, will receive the bonus million-dollar top up under the Journalism Assistance Fund.

Provincial Press has dozens of publications in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria.

The company took over the StandardChronicleon July 1, and promptly merged the two papers, with the exception of the frontand back-pages.

The Alexandra-Yea company will receive $68,640 in grants. A $626,340 grant has been approved for Wangaragtta-based newspapers, there is $308,880 for the Regional Media subsidiary in NSW, and the Riverina Media Group is to receive $277,134.

The big winner of the Albanese Government’s grant has been the Star News Group and associated companies led by Paul Thomas His company will receive a total of $4,775,199 over three years.

The Star group includes the PakenhamGazette,DandenongStarJournaland associated itles around Berwick and Cran-bourne. That comoany has receibed the tick for $1,736,592.

The MMP Star group, which operates papers in the northern and western suburbs, is to receive $120,120.

The SA Today operation, which has recently taken over titles in Portland, Hamilton, Mildura, Swan Hill and Loddon, has been approved a grant of $2,703,987.

Across at Shepparton, the McPherson

Regional Round-Up

Culvert works delays

■ Due to “unforeseen site conditions” that Strathbogie Shire Council has encountered with the existing culvert foundation during construction, the replacement works on Tarcombe Rd over Discovery Creek have been extended.

Tarcombe Rd will remain closed to through traffic until August 7, with traffic management and signed detour routes remaining in place.

The overall project is now expected to be completed by August 21.

Tourism volunteers

■ Mansfield Council is calling for expressions of interest from people across Mansfield Shire’s tourism and business sector to join a new Tourism Reference Group.

The group will bring together individuals from a range of backgrounds to give the Council independent and informed advice on tourism-related strategies, policy and initiatives.

Members will act in an advisory capacity, offering their unique perspective to help Council make well-informed decisions on tourism matters that affect the whole shire.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said getting local voices around the table was key to getting tourism right for Mansfield Shire.

"Our tourism industry is such a big part of what makes this shire tick and the people working and earning their living in tourism every day know it better than anyone," Cr Rabie said.

"If we are going to successfully plan for the future in a way that actually works for our tourism operators, we need to hear from the people on the ground.

“We need the local knowledge that’s sitting within our community. This is a great chance for locals to have a real say in shaping where tourism in our shire goes next."

The Council is specifically seeking expressions of interest to form a tourism reference group that consists of:

■ 2-3 accommodation providers

■ 1-2 visitor experience operators

■ 1-2 retail sector representatives

■ 1-2 caravan and holiday park operators

■ One transport provider

■ 2-3 food and beverage operators

■ One Delatite Chamber of Commerce member

The objectives of the Tourism Reference Group are to provide industry insight into local tourism trends, opportunities and risks, strengthen collaboration between Council and the tourism sector and promote sustainable and balanced tourism growth across the Shire

Longy’s

Artificial Intelligence

$74 MIL. MEDIA GRANTS. HOW MUCH DID YOU GET TO PRINT NICE THINGS ABOUT ME?

SATIRE

$4,775, 199

Council News

$½M for health of young

■ Murrindindi Council has welcomed the announcement by VicHealth of the Partners in Place grant, providing $500,000 over five years to support the health and wellbeing outcomes for children, young people and families.

“The grant will support initiatives that strengthen the systems, relationships, and environments that influence health outcomes across the municipality,” said a Murrindindi Council representative.

“The project recognises that the health challenges faced by our communities cannot be resolved through individual programs alone, and that lasting change requires collaboration and commitment across organisations, services and the community.

“Working alongside community partners and local stakeholders, Council will help design and deliver initiatives that respond to local needs and strengthen the support systems available to children and families.

“The project aligns with Council's commitment to supporting positive health and wellbeing outcomes through the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan

Knowledge

“Throughout the project, Council will work closely with community members, service providers and key stakeholders to ensure local knowledge and experience shape future initiatives.

“By strengthening partnerships and creating more consistent support networks, the project aims to deliver long term benefits for children, families and the broader Murrindindi community.

“Council welcomes this investment by VicHealth and looks forward to maximising the impact of the funding and creating meaningful, sustainable improvements in health and wellbeing outcomes.”

Local people will have opportunities to provide feedback and participate throughout the life of the project. Further information about the project and engagement opportunities will be shared as they become available.

Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher acknowledged this is an exciting and important investment in the future of our community.

“It recognises that lasting change happens when organisations, services and communities work together to address the factors that influence health and wellbeing.

"We are pleased to be working alongside our community partners to deliver initiatives that are informed by local knowledge and designed to create positive, long-term outcomes for children, young people and families."

family’s group, received approval for a grant of $1,840,410. Their titles include the Seymour Telegraph and Benalla Ensign. At Kilmore, the Mott family’s North Central Review received news that their application for $85,800 had been authorised.

Although the Motts disposed of the Alexandra and Yea newspapers at the end of the 2025-26 financial year, they are continuing to publish the Review, noting that it was founded by long-time publishers Wally Mott and Bob Yeates.

Bruce Smith, one of the sons of Kilmore Free Press proprietor Jim Smith, was listed as the frontman for the North Central News when it first went to press.

The Journalism Assistance Fund was promoted as a $64 million project by the Albanese Government. Documents released this month show that 184 participants will share in $74,356,100.

Other Victorian recipients are the Adams family’s SheppartonAdviser ($265,980), the Warragul Gazette run by the Hopkins family ($250, 107), the Hyperlocal group led by Sean Car ($150,150), the McCullough family’s Mornington Peninsula News Group ($133,848), the PhillipIslandandSanRemo Advertiser ($102,960), the Surf Coast Times group ($686,400), and The Westsider community newspaper ($42,900).

The Albanese Government says that it is part-paying the wages of more than 2000 journalists across 184 newsrooms.

■ Local Media Pty Ltd, publishers of The Local Paper, resolved not to apply for any Journalism Assistance Fund grant money, funded by taxpapers.

Local Briefs

Council Centre closed

■ Murrindindi Council temporarily closed the Alexandra Customer Service Centre and Library obn Friday (July 24) “until further notice”.

path

■ Mitchell Council will soon begin works on a new footpath along Tallarook St, in Seymour, helping to complete a missing pedestrian link.

The works will see a new footpath constructed along Tallarook St, between Eliza St and the Station St/Wallis St roundabout.

Construction begins this week and is anticipated to be completed by Monday, August 10, weather permitting.

Traffic management will be in place to ensure the safety of workers and road users

The informal gravel parking area on Tallarook St will be temporarily closed for the duration of the works

Access to nearby homes and businesses will be maintained although minor delays may occur

Drivers and pedestrians are asked to follow all traffic management signage and directions from traffic controllers.

“We apologise for any inconvenience and thank the community for its patience and understanding,” a Council representative said. The Centre re-opened some hours later.

Early learning

■ Early childhood services in Epping and Thomastown will receive a major boost after the City of Whittlesea awarded contracts for the construction of two purposebuilt facilities.

Work will soon begin on the redevelopment of the Boori Children’s Services Maternal and Child Health Centre and Derby Meadows Preschool in Epping to create a new, integrated facility.

The redevelopment of Dalton Rd Kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health Centre in Thomastown will also soon get underway.

“Together, these projects will create modern, expanded spaces to better meet the needs of growing communities.,” said a Whittlesea Council representative.

The facilities will each feature two kindergarten rooms, MCH consulting spaces, a multipurpose activity room, staff amenities, an outdoor play area and on-site parking.

Construction on both projects is scheduled to begin in September, with the kindergartens expected to open in early 2028.

Councillors awarded the contracts at the July 21 Council Meeting following a competitive tender process conducted earlier in the year.

The projects are funded by the City of Whittlesea with support from two grants of up to $4.5 million from the State Government’s Building Blocks Partnership program.

City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lawrie Cox, said: “Kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health services play a vital role in supporting children’s early learning, development and wellbeing,” he said.

“These upgraded kindergartens and MCH spaces will give more children access to quality early learning opportunities close to home.

“Bringing kindergarten and MCH services together at these facilities will make it easier for families to access essential support in one convenient location. I thank the Victorian Government for their financial support under the Building Blocks Partnership program.”

Local Politics

Jess Wilson has much to think about

■ “Getting decision-makers to make the drive is half the battle for regional councils so when Opposition Leader Jess Wilson came to Mansfield Shire , Councillors Mandy Treasure and Bonnie Clark made sure she left with plenty to consider for Mansfield Shire in the lead up to the 2026 Victorian Election,” says the Council.

The Councillors attended Ms Wilson’s community forum for local women as part of her statewide tour of all 88 electorates and took the opportunity to hand her a copy of Council's Advocacy Priorities document.

Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said that the Council welcomes the opportunity to open dialogue with state government politicians regardless of political affiliation in the lead up to the election.

“While this is a Council that focuses on delivering core services, we represent the community and know that it’s also our role to advocate strongly for infrastructure we need to serve the shire's growth, our community's needs that local government can’t provide on its own," Cr Rabie said.

“We need an Emergency Services Precinct to keep our community safe from disasters, safer roads, energy and telecommunications resilience and we need a fairer go for regional Victoria on infrastructure funding.

"Our community lived through the 2026 Victorian Bushfire season - they know what's at stake and they expect their representatives, no matter which side of politics they sit on, to understand it too.

“We’ve made our voices heard on key issues, including the ESVF tax and the removal of planning powers from local government.

“During the election period, we’ll be working to get the message out there that as a regional community, we need and we deserve more than we've got in the recent past.

“Crs Treasure and Clark made sure the Shire's priorities were heard directly by the Opposition Leader and left her with a clear, written record of what matters most to the Mansfield community.”

Mansfield Council's Advocacy Priorities document outlines nine key priorities for the Shire, including the Mansfield Emergency Services Precinct, road safety upgrades, the Lakins Road Industrial Precinct, the Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve Masterplan, emergency relief and recovery infrastructure and calls to repeal the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund Levy and the Better Decisions Made Faster Bill, which strips planning powers away from communities.

Mansfield Council will be actively circulating the document to those looking to form the Victorian State Government in the lead up to the 2026 election.

Tesla stations?

■ Tesla is proposing to expand and upgrade its facility in the Strathbogie Councilowned car park at the corner of Kirkland Avenue and Bury St in Euroa, increasing the number of charging stations from six to 10 and include new CCTV infrastructure in the car park. Before making a decision on the proposed licence agreement, Strathbogie Council wants to hear from the community. Consultation is open until August 11.

54-hole event starts

■ Only 11 players participated in the first of three rounds for the 54 Hole Event at Yea Golf Club . Leading the day was Phil Armstrong (17) with 36 points from second Jonathan Fisher(10) with 35 on CB from Zach Pell(12) third. No NTP on the 18th and John Tanner collected the Club award. Five ladies also played stableford with Margie Wright (20) with 34 points winning from Sharon Grogan (23) with 33.

Wednesday saw 16 men play Pair 22 Stableford with Anthony ‘Pro’ La Grutta teaming with Brian Simmons to win with 292 points from second. This was Anthony’s fourth win in a row. Second with 270 points were Bob Glenister/Gary Pollard from third Alan Pell/Brian Priestley with 264. Luke Gregory was NTP on the 18th and Greg Clements/Jim Redmond won the Club Award. Individual winner was Alan Pell with 33 points from Luke Gregory with 30. Nine ladies played Stableford with Christine Simmons (25) with 36 points had a win from Penny Britton(32) with 26 on CB from third Di Holdsworth (33) third.

Local News Virtual Ward Admissions for Yea

■ Yea & District Memorial Hospital this week launched Virtual Ward Admissions under the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department model.

The Virtual Ward allows provides eligible patients to receive hospital-level care closer to home, supported by a team of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists using phone and video technology from Northern Health. How it works:

■ Virtual Ward admissions will operate seven days a week between 8am and 4pm.

■ Patients must meet specific clinical eligibility criteria for admission.

■ Care will be provided by the experienced YDMH nursing team in partnership with Virtual Rural Ward Doctors

■ Patients will receive comprehensive assessment, ongoing treatment and monitoring, including daily virtual ward rounds with their treating doctor.

■ Once the Virtual Rural Ward Doctor determines the patient is ready for discharge, a discharge summary will be sent directly to the patient's GP

Patients will also receive any required prescriptions, follow-up care instructions and referrals to community or allied health services where appropriate.

Surgery for Cr Sue Carpenter

■ Murrindindi Council last week heard about surgery for Cr Sue Carpenter.

“I am sorry that I missed the June Council meeting,” Cr Carpenter told the July 22 meeting.

“Surgery was scheduled for that day. I do urge people to get skin checks regularly.

“Don’t let skin spots go untreated, or you may find yourself having surgery too.”

End protection for deer

■ Victorians are increasingly fearing for their safety as alleged illegal deer hunting grows alongside the state's exploding deer population, with the Invasive Species Council calling on the Victorian Government to end the protected game status of deer.

Reports of trespassing onto private property and firearms being discharged near homes are growing alongside the state's exploding deer population, leaving communities caught between dangerous illegal hunting activity and an invasive species that is out of control.

“The Victorian Government can no longer justify treating deer as both a protected game species and one of Victoria's most destructive invasive pests,” Invasive Species Council Victorian Conservation Advocate John Kelly said.

“By continuing to protect deer for recreational hunting, the government is leaving Victorian communities to pay the price through an exploding

COWBOYS PUT LOCAL LIVES IN DANGER

deer population, growing safety concerns and ongoing damage to farms and the environment.

“Illegal hunting must be met with strong enforcement, but we also need professionally managed deer control programs that safely reduce deer numbers and protect communities.

“The Victorian Government should remove the outdated protected game status of deer and manage them for what they are - one of Australia's most destructive invasive species.”

South Gippsland landholder and Melbourne resident Richard Leppitt said: “We've had people repeatedly

enter our property without permission and even install trail cameras on our land. We've also had bullets fired on our property during illegal deer hunting.

“It's frightening. No one should have to fear for their safety in their own backyard. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their own home.”

Walhalla resident Brian Brewer said: “Illegal deer hunting has become a serious community safety issue. We regularly hear gunshots through town, and we've had deer shot in the middle of Walhalla with accommodation and homes nearby.

“It's just not safe. People shouldn't have to worry about someone shooting a deer where families are staying or locals are walking around.

“We all want deer numbers reduced. I'd love to see every sambar eradicated, but it's got to be done through professionally managed deer control programs. There are some cowboys out there putting people's lives in danger.”

Mistakes lead to old charges

■ A number of administrative corrections and adjustments were identified that required Murrindini Council to re-adopt the User Fees and Charges Schedule.

“The proposed amendments include the addition of a missing Land Information Certificate fee, minor corrections to Building and Planning fees and descriptions, updates to statutory lodgement fees set by the State Governmen t, and adjustments to landfill-related fees to reflect the State Government’s increased Landfill Levy for 2026-27,” Councillors were advised at last week’s Council meeting (July 22).

“Until the revised Schedule is approved and published, customers continue to be charged the applicable 2025-26 fee rates for the affected services,” a report said.

“While this results in a minor temporary reduction in revenue, approval of the revised Schedule will ensure appropriate cost recovery, maintain the accuracy of Council’s financial reporting and forecasting, and support responsible inancial management.

“The amendments are administrative in nature, with no community consultation required.”

Crs Anita Carr and Sue Carpenter successfully proposed that Murrindindi Council adopt the updated User Fees and Charges Schedule for 2026-27.

Local Briefs

Beveridge update

■ Mitchell Shire Council is inviting residents to a Beveridge Community Update tonight (Wed., July 29), where it will report back on progress since last year's Listening Tour sessions and publicly launch its Build Beveridge Station campaign.

The free session will be held at the Greater Beveridge Community Centre from 5.30pm to 7pm, with a presentation from 6pm.

Residents can drop in, view project updates and information, and speak directly with Councillors and Council staff about the projects, services and advocacy shaping Beveridge's future.

The session will also include the public launch of Council's State Election advocacy priorities, including the Build Beveridge Station campaign, calling on the next State Government to commit to delivering the train station this rapidly growing community needs.

“Beveridge is changing rapidly and it's important that we keep the community informed about the projects underway, what's coming next and the advocacy needed to support that growth,” said a Mitchell Council representative.

“Residents will receive updates on key road projects including Camerons Lane and Old Sydney Rd, community infrastructure, planning and development, as well as Council's advocacy priorities for Beveridge and the broader region.”

Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said the session was an opportunity to continue the conversation with the community and provide an update on the issues that matter most.

“Last year, we held two Listening Tour sessions in Beveridge and heard directly from residents about the projects, services and infrastructure that matter to them,” Cr Dougall said.

“This community update is our opportunity to come back, report on progress and share what's coming next for Beveridge

“Beveridge is changing rapidly and it's important that we keep the community informed about the projects underway, what's coming next and the advocacy needed to support that growth.

“Beveridge has around 11,700 residents today and is forecast to grow to more than 112,000 by 2046. We need to plan and advocate now for the transport and infrastructure that will support that growth.

“Residents will have the opportunity to hear the latest updates, ask questions and speak directly with the Councillors and Counci l staff delivering projects across Beveridge.

“Whether you've lived in Beveridge for years or have recently moved to the area, I encourage you to come along, hear the latest updates and be part of the conversation about Beveridge's future,” Cr Dougall said.

Climate change

■ Burrinja and Yarra Ranges Council are presenting the fourth Burrinja Climate Change Biennale (BCCB#4), a region-wide celebration of arts, ideas and action running from Saturday August 22 to Sunday October 25.

Under the theme Art. Activism. Adaptation. Hope, BCCB#4 brings together artists, activists, academics, filmmakers and community leaders to explore creative responses to the climate crisis through a diverse program of exhibitions, screenings, talks, performances, workshops and immersive experiences presented across the Yarra Ranges

Imagined, planned and delivered in close partnership with Yarra Ranges Council, this year's Biennale will activate venues including Burrinja, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, The Memo Healesville and along the trails of Ngurrak Barring, creating opportunities for audiences to engage with climate issues through culture, creativity and conversation.

Burrinja CEO and Creative Director Melanie Burge said the Biennale reflects both the challenges and strengths of the local community.

"Burrinja's foundation is deeply embedded in community strength and activism.

“The Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Ranges are home to so many artists, thinkers and passionate community-builders, and their residents have lived experience of the impacts of climate change. Burrinja is proud to offer a space for creative resistance, inquiry and hope,” Ms Briggs said in a statement.

Shaping Grant Street

■ Murrindindi Shire

Council is inviting residents, businesses and visitors to help shape the future of Alexandra’s town centre through a new Grant Street Safety and Streetscape Improvement Plan.

The Council has already secured funding for several important safety improvements within the Grant St precinct and is now asking the community to help identify priorities for the next stage of improvements.

Community feedback will help shape a long-term vision for the town centre, strengthen Council's advocacy to other levels of government and position future projects for funding opportunities, a Shire representative said.

“ Grant St is the heart of Alexandra, connecting local businesses, schools, community services, events and public spaces.

“Council is seeking feedback on how it is used, where improvements could be made and what opportunities could be considered to create a safer, more accessible and more vibrant town centre.”

Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the project gives the community a genuine opportunity to help shape the future of one of Alexandra’s most important public spaces.

"Grant St is much more than Alexandra’s main street. It’s where people come together. It’s where people shop, meet friends, access services, attend events and experience the best of our town," Cr Gallagher said.

"We’ve already secured funding for sev-

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

eral important safety improvements, and now we’re looking beyond those projects.

“This is an opportunity for the community to help shape a long-term vision for Grant St so we’re ready to advocate for future investment as funding opportunities arise."

"The people who use Grant St know what works well and what could be improved to make Alexandra even better.

“Whether it’s increasing safety and accessibility, supporting local businesses or creating a better town centre experience, we want to hear those ideas."

“ Council is progressing several grant funded safety projects in the precinct, including upgrades to the Nihil St roundabout, improvements around the Grant St Rotunda and upgrades to the Webster St school crossing.

“While these works progress, the Grant Street Safety and Streetscape Improvement Plan will help identify longer-term priorities for improving safety, accessibility, walking and cycling connections, landscaping, public spaces and the overall experience of Alexandra’s town centre.”

Consultation is open now and closes on Sunday, September 6.

“The first pop-up session will be held at Alexandra Library from 10am to 4 pm on Monday, August 3, providing an opportunity to meet the project team, learn more about the project and share your ideas in person,” the Shire representative said.

is the July 29 issue of The Local Paper (including the Melbourne Observer) for 2026. Digital issues are produced weekly, and print issues are published fortnightly.

Whittlesea District-Kinglake

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

Hyperlocal coverage

■ Welcome to The Local Paper’s extended local coverage of local people and their doings. Every issue - in print, and onlinewill include special local sections. Organisations and businesses can have a business card size ad for $20 per issue, if they take a 23-issue package ($460 annual).

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

Whittlesea Flowers and Bears 61 Church St, Whittlesea Phone 9716 1255 info@whittleseaflower.com.au

COACH RAMSAY SIGNS OFF

■ Whittlesea Football and Netball Seniors coach Garry Ramsay will conclude his tenure at the end of the 2026 season.

The club made the announcement, paying tribute to Garry Ramsay for an “outstanding contribution”, wishing he and his family every success for the future.

“The impact Garry has had on our football club since walkingt through the doors has been immeasurable,” said a Club representative.

“When he arrived, he was faced with a significant challenge. At the time we had no Under 19s and our senior playing numbers were considerably low.

“During Garry’s time at the club, we have successfully re-establoished our Under 19s program,, which is now competing in Division 12.

“Our Reserves celebrated the 2025 premiership and under Garry’s leadership our Senior team has reached two consecutive preliminary finals over the past two seasons.

“More importantly, Garry has helped build a strong and sustainable football program while creating a culture of commitment, development and belief throughout the Club.

“His dedication, professionalism and passion have left the club in a far stronger position that when he first arrived.

“There is still plenty to play for during the remainder of the 2026 season and we encourage all members and supporters to get behind Garry, our coaches and our playing group as we strive to finish the season strongly,” the club representative said.

LITTLE ITALY COMES TO KINGLAKE WEST

Whittlesea-Kinglake

KINGLAKE

Winter warmers

■ Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood House is the location for the Winter Warmers luncheons being held weekly on Thursdays until September 3.

The aim is for local people to gather around the table for a delicious meal with good friends in a warm and welcoming space with great atmosphere.

The lunches will be held from 12.30pm to 2pm at the House. All are wlecome. Thesxe are free events, a gold coin donation is welcome but not expected.

Each week there will be a new menu of hearty home made food prepared by talented local cook Lesley.

MERNDA

Open House

■ Ivanhoe Grammar School's Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre at Plenty Campus as part of this year's Open House Melbourne program on Sunday (July 26).

Open House Melbourne is one of the world's largest celebrations of architecture, design and urban places.

It offers the community a rare opportunity to step inside significant buildings and learn more about the thinking, craftsmanship and purpose behind them.

This is an opportunity to view this new award-winning facility up close, hear from the architect and builder, and reflect on how the campus continues to evolve for current and future generations of students.

Tours will run at 11am, 1pm and 3pm at the Plenty Campus , 730 Bridge Rod, Doreen. ookings: are essential and can be made via the Open House Melbourne website.

Visitors will be able to learn about the intention behind the building, the design and engineering challenges involved, and the way the centre has enhanced the student experience at Ivanhoe Grammar School

The 11am tour will begin with a special poolside performance by some of the primary school-aged students, featuring songs from upcoming school musical, FindingNemo

All Functions Available! Bistro 7 Days a week 9716 1966 www.whittleseabowls.com.au 3/56-62 Church St, Whittlesea Phone: 1300 006 693 Reservations: resos.com

■ Famous for their signature square pizzas, Little Italy Family Restaurant and Pizzeria has become quite a hit amongst locals.

And not just Kinglake West, people are travelling distances to savour the pizzas and authentic pasta, either dining in or taking away.

Hosts Fulton and Lucy Zylstra love their vocations. Fulton once worked in IT, and Lucy was employed in aged care.

That sometimes seems like a lifetime ago, as they developed their business alongside the service station complex near the ‘Tommy’s Hut’ complex, close to the Kinglake West intersection.

“We didn’t just change careers; we changed our entire lifestyle, leaving fast-paced industries to build something grounded in family, food, and community,” Fulton and Lucy tell TheLocalPaper.

“Our restaurant isn’t just a business; it’s a place where

locals gather, celebrate milestones, and feel at home.

“Many of our customers have become like extended family.

“Running a small, independent restaurant in today’s climate is tough.

“Rising costs, staffing challenges, and economic pressures are very real; but we’ve chosen to stay, adapt, and keep going.

“We recently made the decision to remove our Sunday surcharge, despite increasing costs, because we understand what families are going through and want to stay accessible to our community.

“Food is at the heart of everything; simple, generous, comforting Italian dishes made for sharing.

“It’s not about trends, it’s about consistency and experience.

“The atmosphere is just as important as the food; warm, welcoming, and relaxed.

“A place where people can escape the stress of everyday life.

“Moving to the Whittlesea wasn’t just a business decision; it was about escaping the rat race and creating a better quality of life for our family,” said Fulton and Lucy.

“We are a family-run business, and that shows in everything we do; from how we greet customers to how we prepare and serve our food.

“Like many small businesses, we’ve had moments where things felt uncertain; but the support and feedback from the local community has kept us going.

“Our goal isn’t just to run a restaurant, it’s to create a place people want to return to again and again,” Fulton and Lucy said.

There will be a photographic exhibition sharing the early story of Plenty Campus. An exhibition booklet has been produced. Designed by award-winning architects Peddle Thorp and built by Building Engineering, Coonawarra Willam is a dedicated learning centre for Physical Education, Health and Humanities, a home for school sport and swimming programs, , and a valued resource for the broader local community.

KINGLAKE

Potholes fixed

■ Local Kinglake residents welcomed a fix to potholes in the Sycamore GroveBraeside Avenue area. One social media contributor added the message: “Wonder if the pot hole fairy could visit The Ridge too?” Another said: “All the potholes in Weber Road have just been filled in. Woo hoo. Thank you.”

DISTRICT

Memorial service

■ Local Freemasons will gather for a Memorial Service for Barry Reaper and John Cantrill at Ivalda Masonic Centre from 2pm-4pm on Sunday, July 26.

WHITTLESEA

Coding, robotics

■ A ‘Robogals Coding and Robotics’ session will be held at 4pm-5pm today (Wed., July 22) at Whittlesea Library, 57-61 Laurel St, Whittlesea. Bookings essential: phone 9716 3028. Organisers say that ‘Robogals’ will teach partipants on how to be a ‘computer superstar’.

The Yea Paper

Devlin's Bridge, Flowerdale, Glenburn, Highlands, Homewood, Kerrisdale, Killingworth, Limestone, Molesworth,

Yea District Briefs

FLOWERDALE

Open Saturdays

■ Last Saturday (July 18) saw the weekend opening hours of 9.30am-10.30am for the Australia Post outlet at the Flowerdale Community House, 36 Silver Creek Rd. Weekday hours are advertised as: Mondays 10am-12 Noon; Tuesdays 2.30pm4.30pm; Wednesdays 10am -12 Noon and 6pm-7pm; Thursdays 2.30pm-4.30pm; and Fridays 10am-12 Noon.

YEA

Garden Expo plans

■ The Rotary Club of Yea has plans well underway for the Yea Garden Expo to be held at the Saleyards from 9am-3pm on Saturday-Sunday, September 20. Entry will be $12 at the gate, $10 online. Two spring gardens will be available for viewing. Organisers are promising native and flowering plants, garden sculpture, garden tools and vegetable bins, seedlings as well as mulch, fertilisers and compost.

TOOLANGI

Open meeting

■ Murrindindi Shire Councillors will attend an Open Community Meeting at the C.J. Dennis Memorial Hall, 1721 HealesvilleKinglake Rd, Toolangi, at 5pm on Wednesday, July 29.

CHANGES AT MOLESWORTH

■ The Molesworth Fire Brigade held its biannual election, which saw not only a change of Captain, but also a number of new faces taking on roles.

The Brigade has expressed thanks to Nick Fisher, who, after four years leading our brigade, has stepped down as Captain.

Nick was recognised for his dedication and service as Captain, particularly through the latest fire events.

Nick will continue with the brigade in the Members were elected to positions effective from July1 through to June 30, 2028:

■ Captain - Matt Ridd

■ 1st Lt - Nick Fisher

■ 2nd Lt - John Morris

■ 3rd Lt - Johnathon Waterhouse

■ 4th Lt - Harry Smith

■ Secretary - Therese Morris

■ Treasurer - Andy Russell

■ Comm. Safety - Kelly Timms

■ Training Coordinator - John Morris

■ H&S - Patrick Hayes

■ Comms Officer - Therese Bradshaw

■ Apparatus - Trevor Young

Support the Supporter

■ Beyond the Business - Supporting The Supporter is the theme for an information session where a guest speaker will participate in discussions on how frontlne staff can respond with care and confidence, understand local referral pathways, and connect community members with the right support, and look after their own wellbeing while supporting others.

The session will be helcd from 6pm-8pm at the Country Club Hotel - Oliver Room, 18 High St Yea. Participants can gain practical tools, useful resources and reassurance that they are not alone in supporting the community’s recovery.

The Alex Paper

DINDI BEES

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

“If you, or your community group, would like to speak to Council, you are invited to attend the meeting. You will have five minutes allocated to talk directly with Murrindindi Shire Councillors about issues or ideas that are important to you and your community. You may be speaking in front of members of the public, as well as Council officers,” said a Shire representative. Acheron, Alexandra, Buxton, Cathkin, Crystal Creek, Devil's River, Eildon, Fawcett, Kanumbra, Koriella, Maintongoon, Marysville, Nabethong, Taggerty, Thornton, Whanregarwen and Yarck.

Alexandra Briefs

BUSHFIRE REGION

Picket purchases

■ Foundation Murrindindi has joined with Blaze Aid Australia to purchase pickets to help rebuild fences after the Longwood fires in the Murrindindi Shire.

A $10 donation purchaes one star picket, deirectly supporting the rebuilding of fences for fire-affected properties in Murrindindi Shire. Donate at www.foundation murrindindi.org.au

MARYSVILLE

Women’s tournament

■ Marysville Community Golf and Bowls Club members are being encoiuraged to participate in teams of two at the Women’s 4BBB Stableford Open Tournament to be held at the Sherpparton Golf Club at 9.30am on Monday, August 24.

BUXTON

Pothole fairy praised

■ An anonymous Buxton local has been praised for placing traffic cones around a Maroondah Hwy pothole near Williams Lane. Two cars had to be towed from the scene.

FAWCETT

Paddock walk

ROTARY COLLECTS

■ Locals Kerri Goshnick and Sarah Fox will feature in a Paddock Walk event being held at Fawcett Hall at 10am for 10.30am on Tuesday (July 28). A light lunch will be included back at the Fawcett Hall by 1pm. Participants should bring their boots to negotiate wet paddocks. ● John Allcock, 2025-26 President, Rotary Club of Alexandra

$85,618

■ The Rotary Club of Alexandra has collected $85,618 on donations to help bushfire recover, 2025-26 Treasurer Ian Gibb has reported.

“The January 2026 fires in our Shire have had a profound impact on the club’s financial year,” Ian Gibb said.

“We made an early decision to support the local community by setting up a voucher program. This has been a resounding success.

“So far, we have collected $85,618 in donations. Of this we have disbursed $59,882 so far, including $58,375 in vouchers.

“With 190 homes lost and many farmers liveholds adversely affected we still need community financial support. Bank Account details are; Rotary Club of Alexandra. National Australia Bank-Alexandra BSB 083 503, 60663 0744.

“We have issued 876 vouchers, 89 per cent of which have been redeemed, 31 per cent for hardware, 30 per cent for fuel, 17 per cent for groceries and 12 per cent other items.

“The aims of the voucher program were to directly support fire victims and to help support local businesses by restricting voucher use to local businesses.

“We are also investigating other avenues of support, including debit cards and direct deposits. We are still expecting further donations from other Rotary Clubs and from a share of profit from the Pro Rodeo.

“Income for the year was been sourced from:

■ Our Fire Fund, where donations have almost reached $86,000. All of this money will go to fire victims.

■ By the time we close the books for the 2026 Art Show we will be able to show a profit of around $13,000.

■ We received a $5000 grant from Tourism NE for Dindi Daze

■ Wood raffles continue to be a reliable source of income. We ran two wood raffles in winter 2025 which made a profit of $4220.

The Pavilion Bar and Grill Marysville Golf Club, 956 Buxton-Marysville Rd, Marysville Phone: 5963 3241 thepavilion06@gmail.com Mon.: 5pm-9pm Wed.-Sun.: 12 Noon-9pm

Old Friends: Photo Flashback

WEDNESDAY,JULY29,2026

Police Beat

Kidnapping bid

■ Warrnambool Crime Investigation

Unit detectives are seeking to identify a woman as part of their investigation into an attempted kidnapping in Warrnambool Investigators have been told the victim was walking home from work on Willow Tree Lane when she was confronted by a woman about 4.30pm on Tuesday, July 7.

The 33-year-old victim first noticed the woman standing next to a white coloured 2016 Hyundai i30, shortly before the confrontation.

As the victim walked past the vehicle she was attacked from behind and pushed half-way into the car.

She was able to fight the woman off and make her way out of the vehicle where she fell to the ground and kicked out at the offender.

The offender took the victims phone and fled the scene driving south on Willow Tree Lane

The woman is perceived to be Caucasian in appearance and is thought to be aged between 20 and 30-years-old with blonde curly hair. She was wearing a black coloured hoodie pulled over her head and bright pink hiking pants. Detectives are also appealing for dashcam vision from motorists who might have been in the street.

WRONG SIDE OF ROAD DRIVER BLOWS .176

■ Police from the La Trobe area took an alleged drink driver off the roads after receiving reports of a vehicle travelling on the wrong side of the road in Morwell on Friday morning (July 24).

Officers responded after multiple calls were made to Triple Zero (000) for a vehicle travelling on the wrong side of the Princes Hwy just before 1am.

It is alleged the white Volvo was also driving almost half the speed limit, causing other road users to take evasive action to avoid a collision.

Officers quickly responded and safely intercepted the vehicle near Old Gippsland Drive in Moe

The driver was arrested and taken back to a police station where he subsequently returned an alleged evidentiary breath test reading of 0.176.

The driver, a 44-year-old man, was issued with an immediate driving ban and had his vehicle impounded

The man was in custody where he was to be be interviewed in relation to driving offences.

Victoria Police

House fire at Dallas

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded at 10.59am on Friday (July 24) to an incident on Pyalong Crescent, Dallas , after callers to Triple Zero (000) reported a house fire.

FRV firefighters arrived on scene to find the front of the single-storey, brick constructed home well involved in fire.

All occupants were safely out of the house. Ambulance Victoria treated an individual for shock. The incident was deemed Under Control at 11.26am, less than 30 minutes after FRV arrived.

Suburban Report

Tunnelling complete

■ Tunnelling is complete on the North East Link – a major milestone for Victoria's biggest road project.

Tunnel Boring Machine ‘Gillian’ broke through on Friday (July 24) at Bulleen, completing excavation of the southbound tunnel after the northbound tunnel excavation was finished in May.

Set to open to traffic in 2028, the twin 6.5-kilometre tunnels will fix the missing link in Melbourne's freeway network and are creating more than 12,000 jobs during construction.

Victoria’s largest road tunnel will take up to 15,000 trucks a day off local roads and cut up to 35 minutes off trips between Melbourne's north and east.

The TBMs removed 2.5 million tonnes of rock and dirt and installed nearly 43,000 pre-cast tunnel segments, on schedule.

Crews now move onto the fit-out phase, installing:

■ 700,000 tonnes of road surface

■ 3300 kilometres of cabling for lighting and signage, and

■ 51 emergency passages that connect to the twin tunnels.

Works are also progressing on aboveground works, including building tunnel interchange ramps, the motorway control centre and a tree-lined Greensborough Rd boulevard.

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Gold

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1-3-2-7

Lotto Numbers: 10-15-20-26-34-38

A positive period with successful results in many areas. Some travel could be indicated, and romantic situations may require you to make decisions. There is luck connected with a person born in June.

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Teal

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2-9-3-1

Lotto Numbers: 3-12-17-27-32-38

Trying to be too independent could backfire in relationships. Someone close may be feeling low and require extra attention. Career matters may need to move more slowly for now.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5-1-3-9

Lotto Numbers: 8-16-26-30-31-33

News that delights you and contact from the past will occupy your time. The property matters you have been trying to establish should now move forward successfully.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Friday

Racing Numbers: 2-2-7-4

Lotto Numbers: 2-4-23-25-32-38

Career-wise, this may be one of the best periods of the year. New opportunities and promising news about your future will help you move toward the end of the year with confidence.

LEO (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Purple

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 4-8-8-2

Lotto Numbers: 9-15-26-39-42-45

Much appears to be going your way, yet you may still feel something is missing. Consider reviewing your own expectations. This can be a period of indulgence, so discipline with diet and health will be important.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Lilac

Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 7-4-3-6

Lotto Numbers: 3-17-25-32-34-40

A little extra effort could bring excellent results in important matters. Your love life could benefit from renewed enthusiasm. Finances are improving, and additional income may ease pressure.

LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Pink

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

Lotto Numbers: 7-18-26-34-38-45

Travel may introduce interesting new contacts and, for some, a significant romantic connection. Avoid taking early developments for granted and allow situations to unfold naturally.

SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: Dark Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 5-9-2-4

Lotto Numbers: 2-18-27-28-38-42

Career prospects may bring a raise, a promotion, or a better offer. Social life becomes more engaging, and important developments are indicated.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Aqua

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5-2-4-8

Lotto Numbers: 2-7-16-20-23-34

It would be wise not to overextend financially. Avoid gambling for the next week or two. Romance becomes more exciting and emotionally rewarding.

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 7-2-8-8

Lotto Numbers: 7-9-13-24-31-43

Many may consider improving their health or adjusting their lifestyle. Be careful not to place career ambitions ahead of important relationships.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Light Blue

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 2-9-1-7

Lotto Numbers: 1-8-13-27-35-45

Romantic opportunities are present if you are open to them. Social life can be lively with effort. Take care not to rely too heavily on promises without confirmation.

PISCES (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 4-1-6-9

Lotto Numbers: 6-9-11-23-35-36

Social life becomes more active, and romantic prospects may develop through gatherings and group events. In business matters, study all details carefully before committing.

10 PEOPLE ARRESTED IN BALLARAT BLITZ

■ An alleged car thief who fled from police was one of 10 people arrested during a major overnight operation in Ballarat

Operation Talon saw local police team up with specialist units including the Air Wing and Dog Squad to target car thefts and high-risk driving while the community slept.

They first spotted the alleged car thief driving erratically in the Sebastopol area about 11.20pm on Saturday, July 18.

Officers attempted to intercept the car, a white Subaru , however the driver allegedly failed to stop and took off at speed.

The Air Wing tracked the vehicle from above before officers on the ground deployed stop sticks in Wendouree

The car came to a stop on Park St before two occupants allegedly took off on foot.

One jumped over several property fences but was swiftly arrested by police.

The pair, aged 22 from Sebastopol and 18 from Ballarat North , were later charged with a string of car theft and traffic offences.

Shortly before, officers were patrolling along Learmonth St in Alfredton when they observed a black Ford Falcon with no registrations plates allegedly perform a burnout at the intersection of Latrobe St about 10.25pm.

Police attempted to intercept the driver however they allegedly failed to stop and took off, reaching speeds of 120-kmh.

The Air Wing followed the car from above and guided officers on the ground to Winter Valley where two occupants allegedly got out of the vehicle and hid outside a nearby house.

The alleged driver, a 20-year-old Mt Wallace man, was arrested and later charged with dangerous driving while being pursued by police, driving vehicle in a manner dangerous, careless driving, driving unregistered motor vehicle and failing to stop on police direction.

His passenger, aged 21 from Mt Egerton , was ar-

● Det,. Sen. Sgt Elissa Smith

rested and charged with possessing cocaine and resisting arrest.

The four men were among 10 people arrested during the fournight operation.

In total, police recovered 11 stolen cars, impounded two vehicles for traffic offences and conducted eight bail compliance checks.

Operation Talon ran overnight between July 15-18.

It will continue to run in the Ballarat area with the Divisional Crime investigation Team, Highway Patrol, and local detectives teaming up to target volume crime.

Ballarat Divisional Response Unit Detective Senior Sergeant Elissa Smith said: “This operation complements the work local police are doing 24-hours a day to catch car thieves in Ballarat .

“We are making in-roads, with around 120 car thieves arrested and some 400 stolen cars recovered since the DCIT launched earlier this year.

“Having a dedicated Air Wing presence above gives us greater visibility to track stolen cars and safely remove them from the roads.

“This important work will continue so those choosing to travel around in stolen cars should know you will be caught, and you will be held to account.”

Food relief

■ Chobani Australia runs The Big Difference , a grants program investing $150,000 each year in Victorian community organisations tackling food insecurity.

Now in its second year, the program takes a deliberately

I am honoured and humbled to have been elected unanimously as the new leader of the Victorian Labor Party and serve as the 50th Premier of Victoria .

“Yesterday, a group of my colleagues approached me and informed me Jacinta Allan no longer had the support of our caucus.

“They asked me to put my hand up.

hands-off approach: no conditions, no oversight, no strings.

Organisations are trusted to spend the funding where they know it's needed most.

One of last year's recipients is Outer East Food Share , operating across Knox, Yarra Ranges , and Maroondah; these are some of Melbourne's fastest-growing outer suburbs. The numbers are hard to ignore: 40 tonnes of food redistributed each month, more than 50 community agencies supported across the region, and enough food to account for two million meals a year.

All of it driven by more than 90 volunteers.

The Yarra Ranges is one of Victoria's largest and most geographically difficult Local government Areas - a mountain range sits between the communities they serve, and for agencies on the outer east side, the current hub is simply too far.

Those 50-plus agencies include everything from established food relief organisations to kindergartens running breakfast programs; this illustrates how far into community life food insecurity reaches in Melbourne's outer east.

The Chobani grant is funding the search for a second hub along the Maroondah Highway corridor; this is the next step in getting food relief to communities that currently can't access it. Demand is still growing, and finding the right location is urgent.

Premier speaks

■ Newly-appointed Victorian Premier Ben Carroll said on Tuesday:

“This was not an easy decision, but the stakes at this election are simply too high.

“Polling says Victoria is on track for Australia’s first Liberal-One Nation Government .

“A Liberal-One Nation Government that will cut hospitals, cut schools and cut frontline services.

“A Liberal-One Nation government that will cut cheaper childcare, free -TAFE and so many other services Victorians rely on.

“This election, only Labor can stop the risk of a LiberalOne Nation Governmen t that will hurt working people.

“But it is clear that on key issues that matter to Victorians , our government needs to go in a new direction.

“As Premier, I will deliver that new direction. That’s why today we are saying enough is enough.

“In my Government , integrity will not be optional.

“Whether in business, politics or the union movement, there will be zero tolerance for those who misuse their positions.

“That is why, my first action as Premier will be to call a Royal Commission into the Construction Sector.

“We will also immediately establish a Special Prosecutor that will work in parallel with the Royal Commission.

“And we will strengthen IBAC by giving them follow the money powers this term. Not in 2027, now.

“I will have more to say on all of this in the coming days.

Let me make one thing very clear: I am not Daniel Andrews ; I am not Jacinta Allan “I will do things differently, because different times require a new approach.

“Every dollar my government spends will be treated with respect.”

■ The Menzies Government's decision to sell its shares in the profitable Amalgamated Wireless (Australasia) Ltd . is the first step in its "desocialisation" policy. It is expected that the Government's controlling interest in Commonwealth Oil Refineries will be on the market before the end of the year.

Cabinet will soon consider the position of Trans-Australia Airlines, but the Government will be wary of selling it, because of the airline's popularity with the public.

Taxis scarce

■ Many taxis will be off the road between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. tomorrow while their drivers hold a meeting at the Trades Hall . They will be discussing Melbourne city by-laws about multiple hiring, new licences, and increased fares. Mr. O. McKenna, Motor Transport Union secretary, said that owner-drivers would not attend the meeting. They represented about a third of Melbourne's 1,430 taximen.

Pilot armed

■ A T.A.A. freight plane pilot will be armed when he flies two full-grown bulls from Sydney to Brisbane on Monday.

The bulls will stand in wooden pens, and each will have a trained attendant, but the airline is taking no chances of them making the plane into a "flying china shop."

The pilot has Instructions to shoot the animals at once if they get out of hand.

The bulls, which weigh three-quarters of a ton each, will be delivered to a Brisbane stock and station agent.

Two suspended

■ Trainer George Mccormick and jockey J. Kennedy were disqualified for two years by Victoria Amateur Turf Club stewards yesterday.

The disqualifications followed an inquiry into the running of the horse Student in the Leamington Hurdle at Caulfield last Saturday.

The horse and its owner, Mr. A. G. Silk , were exonerated.

Student started at 16/1 and finished second to Foxen The Argus

Local Theatre Shawshank Redemption

■ The stage adaptation of the film The Shawshank Redemption is coming to Australia in January.

Direct from its UK tour, The Shawshank Redemption will play in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide, with other cities to be revealed.

Waitlist now at ShawshankLive. com.au to purchase tickets and receive the latest news including casting announcements, exclusive behind-thescenes content and tour updates.

TheShawshankRedemption is a powerful stage production that places audiences just metres from the action.

Raw, intimate and deeply moving, this compelling theatre is based on Stephen King’s celebrated novella, telling an unforgettable story of hope, friendship and the resilience of the human spirit.

Wrongly convicted of the brutal murders of his wife and her lover, Andy Dufresne is sentenced to life imprisonment in the notorious Shawshank prison.

As he navigates the harsh realities of incarceration, he forms an unlikely friendship with fellow inmate Red, discovering that even in the darkest of places, hope can endure.

But when the corrupt Warden seeks to exploit Andy's talents for his own gain, a quiet and daring plan begins to emerge, one that will challenge the very walls of Shawshank itself.

“ The Shawshank Redemption has captivated audiences around the world because it speaks to something universal, the enduring power of hope,” said producer Craig Donnell.

“We're honoured to bring this extraordinary story to Australian stages and share an unforgettable theatrical experience with audiences across the country,”

Adapted for the stage by Owen O'Neill and Dave Johns, and directed by David Esbjornson who directed Angela Lansbury and James Earl Jones in the Australian tour of Driving Miss Daisy, this acclaimed production captures the emotional power and humanity that are said to have made The Shawshank Redemption 'one of the world's most enduring stories'.

The 1994 film adaptation, nominated for seven Academy Awards , has become one of cinema’s most beloved classics. Now, the story of hope, friendship and redemption is brought vividly to life in a live theatrical event.

Melbourne Season: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne - From February 4, 2027

Waitlist for all cities: Shawshank Live.com.au

Review by Peter Murphy

Visit a Choir

■ Community choirs across Australia are opening their doors from August 2430and welcoming new voices.

More than 100 community are welcoming visitors - they include auditioned and un-auditioned community choirs, Men's, Women's and mixed voices, contemporary, barbershop and choral, will be participating.

RSVP at creativityaustralia.org.au/ tryachoir

Menopause Musical

■ Menopause The Musical has today unveiled the cast for its 2026 Australian tour, returning to stages across the country from August with a brand-new production.

The tour opens in Geelong before travelling to Parramatta, Melbourne, Newcastle, Adelaide, Brisbane and Canberra . Taking to the stage in this feel-good production are four queens of Australian musical theatre: Catherine Alcorn as the Professional Woman, Sally Bourne as the Housewife, Lena Cruz as the Earth Mother and Chelsea Gibb as the Soap Star.

A multi-award-winning performer, Catherine has built an impressive career spanning theatre, cabaret and live entertainment, performing throughout Australia, New Zealand and the United States

MPAC AWARD WINNERS

■ Monash University Performing Arts Centres has announced the recipients of its 2027 commissioning program, supporting three ambitious new projects that bring artists and researchers together to explore some of the most pressing questions of our time.

Through the David Li Sound Gallery Commission and MPAC Creative Development program, artists are given the opportunity to develop new work in collaboration with Monash experts, drawing on research, facilities and interdisciplinary partnerships to transform ideas into performance.

Through access to Monash expertise, world-class facilities and curatorial support, MPAC transforms ambitious ideas into public-facing works, across artforms, that push the boundaries of contemporary performance.

The 2027 recipients are sound artist and composer Avia Endean , writer and performer Tom Ballard, and fashion waste creatives Fast Fashun , whose projects span climate science, heliophysics and philosophy, the psychologies of youth culture and sustainability, and social participation.

MPAC Head of Programming Ruth Oakley said the recipients exemplify the unique role commissioning plays within a university context.

"At MPAC , commissioning is about creating opportunities for artists and researchers to think and imagine together.

“Music performance about air turbulence, philosophical comedy about the sun, high volume fashion waste turned into creative participation – this is a suite of projects that would only emanate from MPAC at Monash University

“We are thrilled to support these distinct artistic voices, where all three proposals share deep commitment to curiosity, experimentation and collaboration."

Cheryl Threadgold

Goblin Market

■ It speaks volumes about the diversity and quality of the Melbourne theatre scene that a curio such as Goblin Market thankfully saw the light of day.

Two adult sisters, Lizzie and Laura, return to the nursery of their childhood.

While there they experience a range of intense emotions as they relive the highs and lows of their relationship growing up. At times they are magically transported back in time to the nursery of old, their girlhood and a wooded glen populated by mischievous goblins, a space that is full of dark fantasies, desires and temptations.

Inspired by the Victorian era poem of the same name by Christina Rossetti , this operetta/chamber musical was written by Polly Pen and Peggy Harmon , with music and lyrics

by Polly Pen. The text and lyrics were a rich blend of words taken from the poem itself but added to by Pen and Harmon.

Occasionally twee and melodramatic, overall the writing was full of allegory and suggestive references.

Not overly strong in terms of its narrative, the piece was more atmospheric and evocative through tone and mood.

Wonderfully capturing this tone and mood were the two performer/singers Maria Roitman (Lizzie) and Laura Wilson (Laura) . Both sang with great power and beauty without forsaking the more subtle gentler moments between the two sisters. They mastered the text well, equally at home with the spoken word as with the songs.

Helping them in this regard was a talented skilful team consisting of their director Naomi Woodward , choreographer Leah Osburn, musical director Damien Mizzi and the chamber orchestra accompanying them consisting of Deb McLeod (cello), Liesl Parnell (violin) and Athrav Joshi (synth/percussion).

Dionysius Theatre , who produced the show, are described as an amateur theatre company but there was nothing amateur about Goblin Market

The quality and skill of theatrical talent on display in this strange yet engaging little chamber musical was mightily impressive.

Presented at The Loft, Chapel-off-Chapel , 12 Little Chapel St, Prahran.

Review by Peter Murphy

Friendly Into to Ulysses

■ Bloomsday in Melbourne presents A Friendly Introduction to Ulysses on Sunday, August 23 from 10.am to 4.30pm at 3ZZZ, 309 Albert St, Brunswick.

This one-day session is designed especially for beginners, to take the mystery out of reading James Joyce's Ulysses. No prior knowledge is required.

Presenters are Steve Carey (DPhil, Oxon) who wrote his doctoral thesis on the comedy of Ulysses at Jesus College, Oxford , supervised by Joyce's biographer Prof. Richard Ellmann

Associate Professor Frances Devlin-Glass (PhD, ANU) who has been the Director of Bloomsday since its inception in 1994, and has taught Joyce at university and other levels since 1980. She is a member of the College of Distinguished Deakin Educators.

This event is a fundraiser for Bloomsday in Melbourne's next theatrical production.

The cost is $95/$85 (concession)/$75 ( Celtic Club Members)

Bookings: bloomsdayin melbourne.org.au/ Cheryl Threadgold

Up vibe

■ Australia’s beloved film, The Castle, will be reimagined for the stage. The production has set a new box office record, achieving the highest first day ticket sales for a play in Her Majesty's Theatre history. It has written for the stage by the film’s original creators Rob Sitch, Tom Gleisner, Santo Cilauro and Jane Kennedy

Best films of 2026 (so far)

■ Hard to believe we are now past the halfway mark of 2026.

As we look at what the rest of the year brings (including Dune Part 3, Hope and Godzilla Minus One), these films are, for me, the cream of the crop so far. The top ten, at this stage, aren’t in any particular order.

1) Sirat (M). ***½

With a breathtaking use of sound and vision, Oliver Laxe’s examination of people searching for purpose, answers and home is powerful viewing.

2) It Was Just An Accident (PG). ***½

Winner of last year’s Palme d’Or, this measured, quietly unsettling drama sees its main characters deal with past traumas, under a regime that offers no humanity or hope.

3) The Voice Of Hind Rajab (M). ***½

Tense, moving, almost realtime drama/thriller based on a true story (with actual phone recordings), about a young girl caught in the middle of a brutal IDF attack in Gaza.

4) Sound Of Falling (MA). ***½

Mascha Schilinski’s multigenerational look at how various women are treated is totally absorbing, with plenty of strong performances to fully bring the material to life.

5) The Plague (MA). ***½

Gripping thriller about bullying is disturbing, even bordering on horrific. A very impressive directorial debut by Charlie Polinger, who elicits excellent performances from his young cast.

6) Undertone (M). ***½

Another superb film from a debut film-maker, this time Ian Tuason. A minimalist setting and premise is used to build on a number of themes, as a podcaster growingly doubts herself and everything around her as she debates some mysterious recordings.

7) Silent Friend (M). ***½

Beautifully shot and designed, this meditative, inter

pretive drama centres its three separate storylines (set in different time periods) around a huge ginkgo tree, planted on the grounds of a respected university, and is unable to fully bloom and thrive. The themes explored by writer/director Ildiko Enyedi are relevant, and brilliantly blends the surreal with the humane.

8) Saccharine (MA). ***½ After stumbling with Apartment 7A, Australian director Natalie Erika James (Relic) returns to form with this dark, blackly humorous and graphic look at female body image, and how it can mutate the mind, not just the body. James hits the bullseye, helped by a great performance by Midori Francis.

9) Fjord (M). ***½ Cristian Mungiu, who made the outstanding abortion drama 4 Months, 3 Weeks And 2 Days again tackles heady subject matter, looking at a deeply religious family, who have moved to a new country, dealing with the system when accusations are made, one that could tear them apart. Intelligently explores topics that symbolise how divided the world is today.

10) The Bride! (MA). ***½ Actor Maggie Gyllenhaal’s second directorial outing was largely panned, dismissed and proved to be a box-office disaster. I however think it is one of the most daring and energetic films of the year. Not everything works, but one wishes major studios would take more artistic chances like this. Time will hopefully see this gorgeous film fully appreciated.

In the running : Little Amelie Or The Character Of Rain; Sentimental Value; The Furious; Hoppers; 28 Years Later: Bone Temple; Nirvanna The Band The Show The Movie; Obsession; The Things You Kill; Father; The Drama; Best Wishes To All; My Daughter Is A Zombie; Send Help; Pillion; Redux, Redux; Blades Of The Guardians; Cold Storage; Arco; Mother’s Baby; The Virgin Of The Quarry Lake; New Group; The Sheep Detectives; Colony; The Death Of Robin Hood; 100 Nights Of Hero Aaron Rourke

Home Sweet Home Home Affairs

Projects compete

■ Victoria cannot build its way out of the housing crisis while its biggest infrastructure program is competing with residential construction for the same workforce, according to The Harmony Group

Ahead of the upcoming Victorian election, The Harmony Group is calling for all parties to better co-ordinate the state's major infrastructure pipeline with housing delivery, warning the current approach is driving up construction costs and making it harder to build the homes Victorians need.

Still pessimistic

■ The time to buy a dwelling index rise 5.3 per cent but still remains very pessimistic at 85.4 points. Respondents probably feel it is a bit easier to buy with less competition and lower prices, said Cameron Kusher , Chief Economist, Herron Todd White

Data centres view

has welcomed the Prime Minister's acknowledgement that housing must remain a central consideration as Australia expands its digital infrastructure and data centre capacity. governments must not lose sight of the country's most urgent challenge – delivering enough homes for a growing population.

PRE-FAB QUALIFICATION

● ● The new qualification was officially launched at the Future of Housing Construction Centre of Excellence by kills and Training Minister Andrew Giles, Skills and TAFE Minister Colin Brooks and Ivanhoe MLAAnthony Carbines. Also pictured are prefabAUS Executive Chairman Damien Crough, Victorian TAFE Association CEO Alex White, and Melbourne Polytechnic representatives Gabriel Solorzano Torres and Philip Wyles.

■ Australia’s first Certificate III in Prefabrication Installation is launching at Melbourne Polytechnic’s Future of Housing Construction Centre of Excellence , with an initial pilot intake marking a significant step forward for national training

in modern methods of construction and for students seeking practical, job-ready skills for a changing industry. Modern methods of construction are playing a growing role in how projects are delivered, with prefabricated offering ways to build efficiently.

Check winter bills

■ As wfamilies reach the midpoint of the winter season, increased energy consumption is pushing household bills higher. Australians are being encouraged to check their electricity, gas and broadband providers to ensure they're still getting good value.

Insurance up $300

■ Surging construction costs, labour availability and the frequency of large claim events continue to put pressure on Australian insurance premiums, with new Compare the Market research revealing home and contents quotes jumped more than $300 in the five largest capital cities in the year to June 2026.

Gloomy headlines

■ A leading national buyers’ agent says the wave of gloomy headlines about Australia’s softening property market is masking one of the strongest regional growth runs in years, and there’s a rare window of opportunity for buyers with budgets under $1 million. Kane Dury, principal of Discover Buyers Agency , has also identified seven regional centres that are exceeding expectations. Mr Dury says the national numbers driving the ‘downturn’ narrative are really a Sydney and Melbourne story.

Places To Go

Open Monday-Sunday

Places To Go

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026

Regional answer

■ The Housing Industry Association is calling on all political parties contesting the Victorian election this November to make housing a top priority and to place regional Victoria at the centre of their plans.

A roundtableearlier this month was to bring together housing construction businesses from across north-east Victoria to identify the barriers preventing more homes from being built and the reforms needed to improve housing affordability, strengthen regional economies and grow the construction workforce.

HIA Chief Executive Industry and Policy Simon Croft said regional Victoria must be treated as a central pillar of the state’s housing and economic strategy, not an afterthought.

“One in four Victorians or 25 per cent, live in regional communities, yet too often policy and funding decisions fail to reflect that reality,” Mr Croft said.

“If the next Victorian Government is serious about solving the housing crisis, it must ensure regional Victoria receives its fair share, policies and funding commensurate with its population and its contribution to the state.

“ Victoria cannot solve its housing affordability challenges without significantly increasing housing supply, and that starts by listening to the businesses building homes on the ground.”

$5B ROADS PLEDGE WELCOMED BY VFF

Bush Telegraph Whiparound Support available

Ryan Milgate, VFF President

■ The Victorian Farmers Federation says the Victorian Coalition’s $5b funding commitment to fix the state’s crumbling roads is a step in the right direction, but warns much more is needed to fix Victoria’s road network.

VFF President Ryan Milgate said the commitment recognised the deplorable state of the road network and the urgent need for substantial investment to get them fixed.

"Any commitment to increase funding for road maintenance and rebuilding is sorely needed and very welcome.

“Farmers, transport operators and regional communities rely on safe, reliable roads every single day, and we've been calling for governments of all persuasions to reverse a generation of neglect and make fixing our road network a priority,” Mr Milgate said.

The VFF also welcomed the Coalition's commitment to establish Better Roads Victoria, saying a dedicated body focused on road maintenance could help restore confidence in the state's road network.

It is important however that the vast majority of the funding is actually used to fix our roads and not tied up in red-tape and middle management.

■ Rural Aid is reminding farmers nationwide that support is available now, as primary producers across Australia face increasing pressure from bio-security threats and pest impacts that are compounding already challenging operational conditions.

A range of assistance programs is available to help farming families through hardship and recovery, including financial support, hay and water deliveries and mental health counselling. All services are provided at no cost to primary producers and their families.

Across the poultry industry, there is increasing concern around H5N1 avian influenza, which has been detected in migratory shorebirds and poses a serious threat to the poultry industry in Western Australia

The H5N1 strain also presents a major concern for dairy, and meat production right across Australia with heightened biosecurity vigilance in place for several livestock industries.

Beekeepers are also facing ongoing challenges associated with the spread of varroa mite, creating increased concern across a broader range of pollination-dependent industries as management requirements continue to evolve.

Farmers elswhere are contending with damaging mouse activity and locust plagues, which can rapidly impact crops, pasture and stored feed.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026

Blunt warning

■ The State Government received a “blunt warning” from its own fire fighting agency, and ignored it, says Family First candidate Jane Foreman (see story this page, at right).

“This is a Government taking a blunt, honest warning from its own fire authority and cutting it down until it was safe to release,” Ms Foreman said.

“Victorians were fighting fires with critical staffing gaps last summer, and the government’s first instinct was to bury the evidence, not fix the problem.”

Over the past month, Family First called on the Allan Government to open the books on the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund and account for exactly what Victorians’ record levy is actually paying for.

“These revelations show precisely why that audit is needed — and why it must go further than Fire Rescue Victoria’s wage bill to cover the CFA’s fleet, station and staffing shortfalls as well.

“A government spokesperson says the CFA “has not been censored.” Family First says the only way to test that claim is to release the original June 4 document in full and unredacted, so Victorians — not cabinet — can judge what was cut, and why.

“Volunteers put their lives on the line last summer with two commanders where five were needed. The government’s response was to spend a month editing the evidence instead of fixing the shortfall".

"Family First is calling on the Allan Government to release the CFA’s original submission in full ,” Ms Foreman said.

WORST OF REPORT WAS HIDDEN: FOREMAN

■ After TheAgerevealed the Allan Government stripped more than 5000 words from the Country Fire Authoirty’s own assessment of last summer’s bushfire failures, political candidate Jane Foreman says the cover-up proves exactly what Family First warned weeks ago : Victorians cannot trust this government with the truth about how emergency services are funded and run.

“The CFA handed parliament a blunt 33page account of what went wrong fighting last summer’s bushfires on June 4.

“Within days it was withdrawn. A sanitised 18-page version, cleared by Cabinet and Government lawyers, took its place on June 30with more than 5000 words of the CFA’s own analysis stripped out.

“Among the details cut: the CFA’s admission that it had asked for $330.57 million in supplementary funding between 2022 and 2025 and been given just $117.95 million.

“Fire stations built under the government’s new Community Safety Building Authority now cost up to three to four times more than a CFA-built equivalent.

“Also stripped back was the CFA’s own account of “critical gaps” in frontline command during the worst week of last summer’s fires — including at Longwood and Harcourt,” Ms Foreman said.

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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:

Firefighter roles

■ Applications for ongoing and seasonal forest firefighter roles close on Sunday, July 27. FFMVic is recruiting roles at 74 sites across Victoria.

After the rupture

■ When tragedy strikes, entire communities can be left reeling. A UNSW researcher says recovery from collective trauma depends on the same force that often causes the harm: the actions of people.

“Collective trauma is a shared, largescale event that impacts the psychological, social and physical wellbeing of large groups and communities – whether this is a mass shooting or violence, war, or natural disaster,” says clinical psychologist and UNSW Sydney discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health postdoctoral research fellow Dr Gulsah Kurt. “Unfortunately, traumatic events are quite prevalent and collective traumatic events are increasing.”

Phone: 0433 700 007. Contact: Jake Deans-Draper. https:// www.earthlogic.com.au/ Email: earthlogiclandscapes@ hotmail.com

UP TO $1760

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Every local business throughout the bushfire affected region qualifies for up to $1760 worth of free advertising in The Phoenix newspaper. The offer is available throughout 2026, to all business owners in the municipalities of Mansfield, Murrindindi, Mitchell, Nillumbik, Strathbogie, Whittlesea and Yarra Ranges. The packages are totally free of cost. There is no obligation.

The free advertising packages provide a free 40-word line listing, worth $40 each fortnight until December 9, 2026. That’s a free $40 ad in 23 print issues (plus more free ads in 22 further online issues on alternate weeks). Each advertisement is listed in The Phoenix Newspaper and also online at www.phoenixnews.com.au

To apply for a free advertising package, complete the form online, or mail the coupon (below) to The Phoenix, PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. All advertising packages are subject to the approval of the Editor of The Phoenix.

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Places To Go: Antiques and Collectables

ARE YOU CONSIDERING A HOME

IN A LAND-LEASED

VILLAGE?

MHOA Victoria can assist you.

The Manufactured Homeowners Association (Vic) (MHOA Vic.) is a non-profit, incorporated, volunteer staffed association, assisting owners of manufactured homes in Victorian land-lease villages and in mixed villages. MHOA provides its members with advice and information on matters pertaining to Part 4A of the Residential Tenancies Act, 1997, and assists members when problems arise between homeowners and the owners of the land.

The MHOA Committee have the lived experience of home ownership in land-lease villages and have a vast knowledge of the Act which governs this form of housing.

We have created our own website, www.mhoavic.com, with a wealth of information, a Victorian map showing all land-lease villages that we have discovered, with street address, the owner’s details, the number of homes and the estimated number of residents. Also on our website, is our agenda for getting legislation changes made, and a group of Information Sheets covering the phases of:

• Buying (Manufactured Homes in Land-Lease Villages, Site Agreements & Legislation, Prohibited Terms, Condition Reports and Exit Fees)

• Living (Rights & Obligations, Village Rules, Dispute Resolution, Rental Fees and Annual Increases, Utilities & Other Charges, ResidentCommittees, Maintenance Responsibilities and Preparation for a VCAT Hearing)

• Selling (Selling a Part 4A dwelling and Closure of a Part 4A Village)

ARE YOU THINKING OF MOVING INTO A LAND-LEASE VILLAGE IN VICTORIA, OR YOU ARE ALREADY LIVING IN ONE?

MHOA Vic can assist you.

The MHOA Vic committee members are all residents living in land-lease villages and due to their lived experience, and their knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act for Part 4A villages, a free information booklet has been produced.

The booklet explains most things you need to know about buying,living and selling in land lease villages.

It also provides a list of questions to ask in order for you to make informed decisions and also explainsthe challenges that may arise when you are living in a land-lease village.

Our booklet covers the various aspects of buying into a village, and then living in one.

• Site Agreements including Exit Fees, Legislation.

• Living in a village, including rules, rights and obligations of residents and site owners, dispute resolution, rental fees with their associated annual increases, utilities and other charges.

• Resident Committees, maintenance responsibilities.

A Victorian map showing all land lease villages along with a wealth of other information can be found on our new website, www.mhoavic.com

To obtain a copy of our free MHOA Vic Information Booklet, please contact us via one of the various access methods shown below:

Senior Service

Grandparents shine

■ With 63 per cent of Aussie parents worrying they don't get enough quality time with their kids, data from the 2026 Little Years, Big Impact Report shows that grandparents are stepping up as the unhurried grounded forces of family play.

The research found:

■ 76 per ecnt state that time spent with grandchildren feels significantly less rushed than raising their own kids.

■ 93 per cent agree that shared physical play bridges generational gaps and strongly reinforces family bonds.

■ 41 per cent of grandparents explicitly prioritise play over other activities when spending time with their grandkids.

Nearly four in five grandparents (78 per cent) admit they still feel pressure when looking after their grandchildren

Chronic pain

■ The Australian Chiropractors Association revealed that older Australians are carrying the nation\'s heaviest back pain burden, with seniors recording the highest rates of chronic pain of any age group and a burden that for most, impacts their daily life. An independent national survey of 1040 Australian adults by Pureprofile revealed that 87.3% of Australians aged 61 and over have experienced back pain in their lifetime.

CALL TO REMOVE END OF LIFE LIMITS

■ Older people with life-limiting illness should be able to receive the care they need at home, without their support being constrained by fixed funding and time restrictions, Ageing Australia and Palliative Care Australia said.

The two peak bodies have welcomed a Senate Community Affairs References Committee recommendation to abolish the funding and time restrictions placed on the Support at Home End-of-Life Pathway and develop a flexible, clinically guided, needs-based model for end-of-life care at home.

Ageing Australia and PCA said the recommendation recognises that care at the end of life should be shaped around a person’s needs, not arbitrary limits or uncertain predictions about how long they may live.

Ageing Australia Chief Member Experience Officer Belinda Allen said older people and their families need certainty, flexibility and practical support when someone is nearing the end of life.

"At the end of life, people and families need care that can respond to their circumstances, not a model that puts arbitrary limits around support," Ms Allen said.

Senior Moments

Sector feedback

■ The Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority has opened a public consultation on the development of residential aged care pricing and costing advice to the Federal Government

The Autghority provides annual pricing and costing advice for residential aged care and residential respite care to the Minister for Health and Ageing

This advice is underpinned by the pricing framework for residential aged care services, which is informed by stakeholder feedback received through public consultation.

Fees crackdown

■ The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has launched investigations into several residential aged care providers amid concerns some may be charging Higher Everyday Living Fees in ways that are inconsistent with the rules and the rights of older people.

The Commission is examining allegations that some providers are requiring residents to pay for services that should already be included as part of standard residential aged care, charging for services residents cannot or do not use, or presenting optional fees as though they are mandatory. These practices, if substantiated, undermine the intent of aged care reforms and the rights of older people.

BORONIA HOUSE OPENING 2026

Havilah is expanding its services with a new 24 – bed aged care facility, complementing its existing facility located in Maryborough, Central Victoria, under an hour’s drive from Ballarat and Bendigo.

Located adjacent to the current Havilah building in Burns Street, this new extension is designed for seamless integration, ensuring continuity of care and enhance convenience for residents. Havilah provides modern, comfortable living spaces with each resident enjoying a private ensuite. The facility offers a peaceful and welcoming environment for residents and their families.

Havilah is a not-for-profit organisation, operated by a Board of Management, involving members of our community.

WEDNEDAY, JULY 22, 2026

In The Pink

Women’s health

■ Australia has scored just 59 out of 100 in the fifth annual Hologic Global Women’s Health Index – above the global average of 54, but moving in the wrong direction.

Fewer than one-in-four Australian women (23 per cent) had a preventive cancer screening last year, and breast cancer rates are rising among younger women as the national screening gap widens.

Release of the Index – the world’s most comprehensive annual survey of women’s health and wellbeing conducted by Gallup across 144 countries and territories – coincided with the screening of ConqueringBreastCancer

– a new Australian documentary featuring survivors, advocates, and clinicians, playing throughout winter in cinemas nation-wide.

Dementia grants

■ Dementia Australia has awarded more than $160,000 in grants to 17 community groups across Australia to support local communities to become more dementia-friendly.

The grants were awarded to project ideas that supported local communities, with a special focus this year on people living with young onset dementia and young carers.

Professor Tanya Buchanan said with an estimated 29,000 people in Australia living with young onset dementia.

GENERAL PRACTICES ARE UNDER THREAT

■ Victorians could face more practice closures and longer wait times at already stretched hospitals unless the next State Government backs general practice, the Royal Australian College of GPs has warned.

:The state health system is facing growing demand driven by an ageing population, rising rates of chronic disease, and increasing pressure on hospitals and emergency departments,” says the RACGP.

At the same time, rising business costs and taxes in Victoria, including payroll tax, are making it increasingly difficult to operate a general practice in the state, threat ening patient access to healthcare.

Ahead of the Victorian election, the RACGP is calling on all parties to commit to a full payroll tax exemption for general practitioners, saying it is one of the most practical ways to protect affordable patient care.

“If we want Victorians to see a GP when they need one, general practice has to be financially sustainable,” RACGP Victoria Deputy Co-Chair Dr Aadhil Aziz said.

“Most general practices are small businesses, and the margins are extremely thin, about 2–3%. Most Victorian GPs practise as independent medical practitioners and weren’t subject to payroll tax until recent interpretations of the law.

● ● Dr Aadhuil Aziz

The Pulse

Basic rights push

■ Optometrists working for Australia’s corporate eye-care chains will launch a push for enforceable rights to proper breaks, predictable rosters and payment for every hour worked under a Fair Work Commission bid being lodged today by the Health Services Union

The HSU will apply to vary the Health Professionals and Support Services Award to explicitly cover optometrists, ending the uncertainty that has left workers in the heavily corporatised sector without a clear and enforceable workplace safety net.

HSU members have reported being pressured to work through meal breaks, struggling to take toilet breaks, receiving rosters or roster changes at the last minute, and having time worked rounded down by payroll systems.

Getting home sooner

■ The State Labor Government says that it is continuing to support our nurses, doctors and healthcare workers to deliver faster, safer emergency care for families across the state.

Emergency departments and paramedics right across Victoria are facing record demand.

Labor says that it is backing 22 of our busiest public hospitals with more than $4.7 million to make sure patients get home sooner.

Funding will help hospitals to discharge patients on weekends.

Observations

Dance Palace

■ Surviving 30 years in the insecure world of showbusiness is a good record for a small company, and burlesque theatre specialists Finucane and Smith have now notched up three decades since their first performance.

To celebrate the occasion, Moira Finucane and Jackie Smith are staging special shows to mark the reopping of Luna Park’s Luna Palace, on each weekend in August.

Finucane and Smith’s Dance Palace comprises 12 nights featuring 30 ‘hot divas’, making up the ‘lush and live carnival of hot divas, hot chips and all sauce’, Finucane says.

The cabaret shows feature a huge range of artists from pub rock queens, to soaring sopranos to Bollywood love gods, and everything in between.

Finucane says her cabaret season is a month-long carnival of cabaret, wild art, heart-stopping song and beyond burlesque, describing it as a carnival of love at a time that is desperately needed.

Aware of the cost-of-living pressures, Finucane and Smith are providing high value entertainment at reasonable prices, with even some free seats for those who can’t afford to buy a ticket.

“We love our Melbourne family. It made us who we are. We know times are tough and hope is hard to come by. But we guarantee our stunning saucy Dance Palace will ignite joy in your heart, fire in your loins, and a skip in your step,” Moira says.

And who could argue with that?

For more information and to book, visit trybooking.com or finucaneand smith.com

Julie Houghton

Auditions

■ Eltham Little Theatre: Lend Me a Tenor August 5 at 7.30pm and 8 at 1.00pm in Eltham Little Theatre’s Rehearsal Room, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Audition bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1609282

■ Brighton Theatre Company: A Simple Act of Kindless (by Ross Mueller) August 30 at 2pm, August 31 at 7pm at Brighton Theatre, Carpenter St., Brighton. Director: Blake Stringer. Audition enquiries: BlakeStringer@ hotmail.com

■ The Basin Theatre Group: The Railway Children (Adapted by Jason Triggs based on the novel by Edith Nesbit) August 31 at 7pm, September 5 at 10am at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Jason Triggs. Audition bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1606759

Cheryl Threadgold

At Recital Hall

■ The Australian Brandenburg Orchestra presents Mozart, Salieri & Pleyel, from October 15-18 at Melbourne Recital Centre. it is a dramatic and large-scale concert that brings together celebrated masterworks with significant new discoveries in 18th century music.

Cheryl Threadgold

NIGHTLINE CONCIERGE

■ Malthouse Theatre presents The Nightline, an intimate and evocative immersive audio experience created by documentary theatre maker Roslyn Oades and ARIA Award -winning sound artist Bob Scott. Playing at Malthouse’s Bagging Room from August 13-29. The Nightline offers a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the hushed inner world of Melbourne’s nocturnal community.

Inside the space, audiences are invited to take a seat at a solitary table, pick up a vintage telephone, and operate a switchboard to navigate a curated collection of real-life voice messages.

These personal recordings were left by the city’s residents between the hours of midnight and 6am—capturing the unfiltered thoughts of shift-workers, insomniacs, truck drivers, prank callers, emergency workers, new parents, and late-night revellers.

For each iteration of the work, Oades and Scott seek a new batch of local voice messages from the host city, inviting contributions to their dedicated, anonymous hotline via late-night radio call-outs and night-community networks.

For the upcoming Malthouse season, the artists put out a fresh appeal to Melbourne's night owls, capturing a contemporary, raw, and deeply specific snapshot of the city’s subconscious.

"There is a distinct, open-hearted honesty to the anonymous messages left for The Nightline under the cover of darkness,” reflected Co-creator and Director Roslyn Oades

“Bringing this work back to my home city of Melbourne, the place where the idea was dreamed up–in response to my own overnight experiences–is incredibly special.

“We look forward to inviting local listeners to pull up a chair, pick up a receiver, and share a deeply human moment in the dark with their fellow Melburnians."

Guided into the space by 'The Nightline Concierge' (played by Katia Molino ), the production strips away traditional theatrical spectacle to focus on a deeper kind of listening.

The Nightline Message Bank will be open to callers through to the end of the season. Messages left in July may be included in the upcoming run, while any messages recorded after that will be added to The Nightline collection for potential inclusion in future seasons.

To contribute an anonymous late-night message to The Nightline visit nightlineproject.info

Performance Details: August 13 - 29

Venue: Bagging Room, Malthouse Theatre, 113 Sturt St, Southbank

Times: 6pm, 7pm, and 8\pm (Tuesday –Saturday); 9\pm (Thursdays and Fridays)

Duration: 40 minutes (no interval)

Tickets: $35 – $45

Bookings: malthousetheatre.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

● ● ● ● Ben Fox, Kate Weston and Max Nunes-Cesar in A Twist of Fate

Photo: Chloe Towan

■ Something of a mixed bag, and sometimes scary but for all the wrong reasons, Scary Goats Theatre’s A Twist Of FateSeasonFivewas occasionally engaging and witty but also, unfortunately, cliched and tiresome.

Season five consisted of a horror-comedy anthology of four short plays inspired by the television series TheTwilightZone Pre-interval saw two plays performed: Not SoBlackAndWhite, a comedic take on silent movie melodramas which interweaved film with live performance; and WeLiveTo Serve, set on a luxury space cruise escaping a climate-crisis ravaged Earth.

Post-interval a further two plays took place: MuffinDay, a black comedy where a woman relives, over and over, the worst day of her life; and Two Characters in Search Of A Memory, an existential nightmare as two women struggle to escape from … where exactly?

All four plays were performed by an ensemble of 10 actors, most appearing once while a couple appeared twice. Overall performances were quite mixed, ranging from stilted emoting or playing just for laughs to genuinely hilarious or heartfelt moments. Throughout it all though there was a great energy and sense of fun.

In terms of writing and directing: NotSo Black And White was written, directed, shot and edited by Chloe Towan; We Live To Serve was written by Charlie Simmons and directed by Kate Weston; Muffin Day was written by Richard Mealey and directed by Kate Weston; and Two Characters in Search Of A Memory was written by Chloe Towan and directed by Patrick Slee

As with the performances, a wide range of talent was evidenced in both writing and directing. Several scripts suffered from trying too hard to be funny, although both Not So Black And White and Muffin Day had inventiveness and strong direction playing in their favour.

A mixed bag indeed then, though a fifth season speaks for itself in terms of the company’s enthusiasm and warm reception.

Venue: The Motley Bauhaus, 118 Elgin St, Carlton Review by Peter Murphy

Shows

■ PLOS Musical Productions: Jersey Boys July 24 – August 1 at the Frankston Arts Centre. Bookings: https://bit.ly/ plosjerseyboys Phone 9784 1060

■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Truth (by Florian Zeller) July 30 – August 8 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: George Werther. Bookings: mordialloctheatre. com.au

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company (WMTC): Newsies Jr. July 31 – August 9 at Altona City Theatre, Civic Pde., Altona. Bookings: 1300 881 545

■ The VDL One Act play Festival: August 1 at 1pm-5pm; 7pm-10pm; August 2 from 2pm-4pm at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Email: oapf@vdl.org.au

■ Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria: Patience, July 10-12 at the Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton. Bookings: monash.edu/performing-artscentres/event/patience/

■ Melbourne French Theatre: Il était un petit navir (SOS), Save Our Savings (by Jean-Pierre Martinez) August 4 – 8 and August 11 – 15 at La Maison de Maître building, 203-205 Canning Street, Carlton. Director: Paul Wanis. Bookings: melbournefrenchtheatre.org.au

■ The Basin Theatre Group: 84 Charing Cross Road (by James Roose-Evans) August 6 – 16 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Di Hoskins. Bookings: authebasin.sales. ticketsearch.com/sales/sales Phone: 0494 065 006 Email: tickets@thebasin theatre.au

■ The 1812 Theatre: Treasure Island (by Ken Ludwig) August 6 – 29 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Erin O’Hare. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au Peridot Theatre: Admissions (by Joshua Harmon) August 14 – 23 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Alison Knight. Bookings: peridot.com.au

■ Beaumaris Theatre: The Secret Garden (by Frances Hodgson Burnett Adapted by Neil Duffield) August 7 – 22 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Kristina Doucouliagos. Bookings: beaumaris theatre.com.au

■ Torquay Theatre Troup: One Strange Night at the Jumbuck Hotel (by Ethan Cook) August 13 – 22 at Shoestring Playhouse @ The MAC, 77 Beach Road, Torquay. Director: Glen Barton. Bookings: ttt.org.au

■ Dandenong Ranges One Act Play Festival (Gemco Players) August 21 –23. Details and tickets: vdl.org.au/vdlevent/dandenong-ranges-one-act-playfestival-2024/

■ 24th South Gippsland One Act Play Festival (FAMDA – Foster Arts Music and Drama Association) August 29-30 Details and tickets: vdl.org .au/vdlevent/24th-south-gippsland-one-actplay-festival/

■ Brighton Theatre Company: The Trouble with Harry (by Lachlan Philpott) August 14 - 29 at the Bayside Arts and Cultural Centre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Dexter Bourke. Bookings: 0493 069 479 brightontheatre.com.au

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Two (by Jim Cartwright) August 20 – 29 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Natasha Boyd. Bookings: stagtheatre.org

■ Malvern Theatre Company: When the Rain Stops Falling. August 21 – September 5 at Malvern Theatre, 29 Burke Road, Malvern East. Director: Peter Newling. Bookings: malverntheatre. com.au

More Auditions

■ Strathmore Theatrical Art Group (STAG): 39 Steps (by Patrick Barlow and John Buchan) on August 9 at 9am and August 11 at 7pm at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: George Benca. Audition enquiries: georgebenca@ gmail.com 0419 591517.

■ Footlight Productions, Geelong: Annie. August 16, Callbacks August 23. For an audition information pack, contact footlightproductionsvic.com Cheryl Threadgold (Auditions, also in column, at left)

Where I Belong

■ Hazel and The Thief’s new single It’s Where I Belong is about being totally independent and making music entirely on your own terms. Hazel says: “My sound doesn’t fit neatly into one box, it lands somewhere between country, folk, alt-country, Australiana and bush balladeer, and I love it that way. I refuse to be boring just to fit a mold. I want the acoustic instrumentation to truly match the raw emotion and the lyrical storyline, rather than just ticking a box for a streaming playlist.”

Feelin’ Groovy

■ Memo Music Hall presents Feelin Groovy: The Simon and Garfunkel Project on Sunday, September 27. Featuring an outstanding 6pc jazz ensemble, the iconic duos songs of social and political unrest, of contemplation and reflection along with songs of longing, questioning and love will showcase Melbourne band Feelin’ Groovy led by jazz vocalist and singer-songwriter, Helen Catanchin . Tickets at Trybooking.com

No promises

■ South Gippsland duo No Promises featuring singer songwriters Janine Garvey and Eric Collier have released their new work. Their single Siren draws inspiration from the mystical atmosphere of Fleetwood Mac classics like Rhiannon and Sisters of the Moon Siren is a hypnotic, hook-filled anthem that captures the magic of 70s West Coast country rock while forging a sound entirely its own.

BELL SHAKESPEARE’S MACBETH

■ Bell Shakespeare’s acclaimed 2023 production of Shakespeare’s most haunting thriller Macbeth returns to tour nationally from this September, playing more than 20 venues across New South Wales, Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia and Victoria

The tour starts in Wagga Wagga on September 11 and culminates with a season at Sydney Opera House from November 18-December 6.

Following a bloody battle, Macbeth and his comrade Banquo are met by three Weird Sisters who prophesy Macbeth will one day be king.

Driven by an insatiable hunger for power, posterity and certainty, Macbeth and his wife commit a murder and set in motion the unravelling of their sanity.

Directed by Artistic Director Peter Evans, the production is a terrifying portrayal of moral collapse and an intense and compelling journey into the dark heart of humanity.

Set in the moody 1920s, postWorld War I , this staging reimagines the play’s supernatural elements through a séance-inspired nightmare world.

Starring Anthony Taufa (Coriolanus, Jailbaby) as Macbeth alongside Matilda Ridgway (Coriolanus, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time, Bump) as Lady Macbeth , the pair are joined onstage by Rebecca Attanasio, Jeremi Campese, Tony Cogin,

Cat Dominguez, Josh Monaghan, Mariska Murphy, Gareth Reeves and James Thomasson

Peter Evans, Artistic Director,, said: “ Bell Shakespeare exists to make Shakespeare accessible and exciting for every Australian , wherever they live — and there’s no better way to do that than taking a production of this scale on the road.”

CREATIVE TEAM: Anthony Taufa Macbeth

Rebecca Attanasio Ross/ Witch

Jeremi Campese Malcolm/ Fleance

Tony Cogin Duncan/Porter/ Seyton

Cat Dominguez Donalbain/ Witch

Josh Monaghan Banquo/ Doctor

Mariska Murphy Lady Macduff/Witch

Gareth Reeves Macduff

Matilda Ridgway Lady Macbeth

James Thomasson Bleeding Captain/Lennox

Harper McIlroy Understudy

John Tsakiris Understudy

Peter Evans Director

Anna Tregloan Set and Costume Designer

Damien Cooper Lighting Designer

Max Lyandvert Composer/ Sound Designer

Tom Royce-Hampton Movement and Fight Director

Jack Starkey-Gill Voice Director Contributed

Where I Belong

■ Hazel and The Thief’s new single It’s Where I Belong is about being totally independent and making music entirely on your own terms. Hazel says: “My sound doesn’t fit neatly into one box, it lands somewhere between country, folk, alt-country, Australiana and bush balladeer, and I love it that way. I refuse to be boring just to fit a mold. I want the acoustic instrumentation to truly match the raw emotion and the lyrical storyline, rather than just ticking a box for a streaming playlist.”

Feelin’ Groovy

■ Memo Music Hall presents Feelin Groovy: The Simon and Garfunkel Project on Sunday, September 27. Featuring an outstanding 6pc jazz ensemble, the iconic duos songs of social and political unrest, of contemplation and reflection along with songs of longing, questioning and love will showcase Melbourne band Feelin’ Groovy led by jazz vocalist and singer-songwriter, Helen Catanchin . Tickets at Trybooking.com

No promises

■ South Gippsland duo No Promises featuring singer songwriters Janine Garvey and Eric Collier have released their new work. Their single Siren draws inspiration from the mystical atmosphere of Fleetwood Mac classics like Rhiannon and Sisters of the Moon Siren is a hypnotic, hook-filled anthem that captures the magic of 70s West Coast country rock while forging a sound entirely its own.

BELL SHAKESPEARE’S MACBETH

■ Bell Shakespeare’s acclaimed 2023 production of Shakespeare’s most haunting thriller Macbeth returns to tour nationally from this September, playing more than 20 venues across New South Wales, Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia and Victoria

The tour starts in Wagga Wagga on September 11 and culminates with a season at Sydney Opera House from November 18-December 6.

Following a bloody battle, Macbeth and his comrade Banquo are met by three Weird Sisters who prophesy Macbeth will one day be king.

Driven by an insatiable hunger for power, posterity and certainty, Macbeth and his wife commit a murder and set in motion the unravelling of their sanity.

Directed by Artistic Director Peter Evans, the production is a terrifying portrayal of moral collapse and an intense and compelling journey into the dark heart of humanity.

Set in the moody 1920s, postWorld War I , this staging reimagines the play’s supernatural elements through a séance-inspired nightmare world.

Starring Anthony Taufa (Coriolanus, Jailbaby) as Macbeth alongside Matilda Ridgway (Coriolanus, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time, Bump) as Lady Macbeth , the pair are joined onstage by Rebecca Attanasio, Jeremi Campese, Tony Cogin,

Cat Dominguez, Josh Monaghan, Mariska Murphy, Gareth Reeves and James Thomasson

Peter Evans, Artistic Director,, said: “ Bell Shakespeare exists to make Shakespeare accessible and exciting for every Australian , wherever they live — and there’s no better way to do that than taking a production of this scale on the road.”

CREATIVE TEAM: Anthony Taufa Macbeth

Rebecca Attanasio Ross/ Witch

Jeremi Campese Malcolm/ Fleance

Tony Cogin Duncan/Porter/ Seyton

Cat Dominguez Donalbain/ Witch

Josh Monaghan Banquo/ Doctor

Mariska Murphy Lady Macduff/Witch

Gareth Reeves Macduff

Matilda Ridgway Lady Macbeth

James Thomasson Bleeding Captain/Lennox

Harper McIlroy Understudy

John Tsakiris Understudy

Peter Evans Director

Anna Tregloan Set and Costume Designer

Damien Cooper Lighting Designer

Max Lyandvert Composer/ Sound Designer

Tom Royce-Hampton Movement and Fight Director

Jack Starkey-Gill Voice Director Contributed

BIRTHDAY STARS AT FLEMINGTON

■ Few names have appeared in the Flemington race book as consistently as Aurie’s Star.

The winner of the 1937 Newmarket Handicap set a new track record at Flemington over six furlongs (approximately 1200 metres) in 1940.

With the introduction of the metric system, his time was adjusted to reflect the slight change in distance, and this remained in place until bettered in November 1996.

For all those years the name Aurie’s Star was included in the list of track record holders.

The race named in his honour to be run at Flemington over 1200 metres this Saturday (August 1), the day on which all thoroughbreds officially turn one year older, presents an opportunity for the following horses:

Bellatrix Star

Great return to the racetrack when she put in a big finish for a close second to Winnasedge in the Monash Stakes at Caulfield over 1100 metres. She would have derived great benefit from the run.

Ndola

Races best fresh and not unusual for him to have a month between runs. Led all the way to win the Santa Ana Lane Final at Flemington over 1200 metres in early July. Has a good record up the straight.

McGaw

Lightly raced sprinter who hasn’t started since February. He is a Group 2 winner of the Danehill Stakes here over 1100 metres defeating My Gladiola and Tentyris.

Premierships

■ As another racing season ends, we reflect on the achievements of not only the outstanding racehorses we have been privileged to see, but also importantly the trainers and jockeys who have helped them realise their ability.

While there are also awards for the greatest number of wins across Victoria, here we are highlighting the Melbourne metropolitan area where the biggest race meetings are run.

Metro Jockeys

Craig Williams had already cemented his place as one of the all-time great riders on Melbourne racetracks, well before winning the Victorian Metropolitan Premiership for jockeys this season. He joins Damien Oliver as having taken out the title on ten occasions and is now just one premiership away from equalling Bill Duncan and Roy Higgins, who each won the award a record eleven times.

Metro Apprentices

Luke Cartwright is a deserving winner of the premiership for apprentices. Cartwright commenced riding in races at the start of the 2023-24 racing season and that experience shone through in his third year.

Metro Trainers

Ciaron Maher remains the most dominant trainer in the metropolitan area. For the past six years, the first four in partnership with David Eustace, Maher has trained more metropolitan winners than any other trainer.

Grand National Hurdle

■ The $250k Grand National Hurdle to be run at Sandown this Sunday (August 2) ought to be full of chances, including the following horses:

Mr Waterville

This is his first jumping campaign, yet he has already proven his prowess and appears to be better the further they go. Won the Australian Hurdle at Sandown defeating Highland Blaze by four and a half lengths.

Highland Blaze

Won this event last year and has been racing very well on the flat since his second behind Mr Waterville at Sandown. He won the Banjo Paterson and then just missed when second in the Flemington Cup.

to jumps racing at Hamilton last time and looked like he was back to his best when too good for Andy Win.

Crisp Steeplechase

■ This key lead-up event to the Grand National Steeplechase honours our greatest ever chaser Crisp.

To be run at Sandown this Sunday (August 2), here are some likely contenders: Stern Idol

Great jumper who has won this event in each of the past three years. Recently won back-to-back chases before having to lump 76.5 kilograms when third to Sing for Peace at Sandown.

Sing For Peace

Graduated from the hurdles to steeples and easily won the Australian Steeplechase at Sandown with only 65 kilograms on his back. Certain to be asked to carry more weight now but was ultra impressive.

Golden Garden Progressive chaser who has won his past three over the big brush fences in style. This would easily be his biggest test to date. However, he just keeps winning and may continue to do so with a light weight.

Andy Win

This is his first jumps preparation. Has won three times and finished second on two occasions from five hurdle starts. Jumped cleanly in a recent steeple trial at Coleraine without being asked to do much.

Horses To Follow

■ Keen Observer, Mr Tickles, Proven Soul

Racing Calendar

■ Wednesday, July 29: Sandown Hillside

■ Thursday, July 30: Bendigo

■ Friday, July 31: Geelong, Wangaratta

■ Saturday, Aug 1: Flemington, Hamilton

■ Sunday, Aug 2: Sandown Lakeside

■ Monday, Aug 3: Pakenham Synthetic

■ Tuesday, Aug 4: Bairnsdale

STAWELL’S 9 RACES DESPITE FOG

■ Stawell, gateway to the Grampians, was the venue to open the week with a nice eight race program on a rather foggy day. McKenzie Creek (Horsham) owner/ trainer Janet Exell combined with Luke Sutherland to capture the 2180 metre Wimmera Mallee Vet Services Maiden Trotters Mobile with 4Y0 Skyvalley-Gloriadon mare I Am Skye Chiola, leading from gate four for the majority of the 2180 metre journey, accounting for The Paso Doble (gate two) which had every chance after leading out then trailing. Speshal (gate three – four pegs) was third 37 metres away. The mile rate 2-03.5.

■ Veteran Bet Bet part owner/trainer Ray Cross (87) who is having a fantastic season added another winner to his seasons tally when 6Y0 Centurion Atm - Kumbya mare Romantic Nina with Liam Older in the sulky landed the Ecycle Solutions Trotters Handicap over 2180 metres. Beginning swiftly to lead throughout, Romantic Nina was always travelling smoothly and kicked away on turning to register a 4.7 metre victory over Soso Majestic (10m) which trailed in a 2-07.6 mile rate. Sonarmi Joh (10m – one/one at the bell) was third 7.4 metres back.

■ Hamilton duo Jim Barker (92) combined with granddaughter Jackie aboard very honest 11Y0 Changeover-Presidential Drive gelding Presidential Change in the Gift Hotel Pace over 2180 metres, leading throughout after a swift beginning from outside the front line to defeat Torque In Heaven (one/two) from a solo second line draw by 1.1 metres. The Irishman (gate two) was a game third after racing exposed a head back. The mile rate 2-03.

■ Havelock (Maryborough) part-owner/ trainer Tina Ridis snared the 2180 metre Stawell AG, Horse and Pet Trotters Mobile with 7Y0 Cardigan Boko-Aeonallbright gelding Rastamon. Beginning safely from gate five as Nedza Thriller led from gate four, Rastamon which had been caught in the open gradually worked forward to assume control and was never headed after kicking away on the final bend. Although getting tired as the winning post came into view, Rastamon held on to gain the day by a head from Boutika (one/ three from inside the second line), with Mattyo a half neck away third after doing all of the work outside the winner. The mile rate 2-02.3.

Shepparton

■ It was a night of multiple wins for both local reinsman Mark Pitt and Australia’s leading reinsman James Herbertson at Shepparton on Tuesday with Pitt having two and ‘Herbie’ three – they being 13Y0 I Am The Way-Aberts Belle gelding Iamawingate for Allendale’s Adam Stephens in the 1690 metre Xmas Dining 28th July Book Now Pace, Tatura trainer Craig Turnbull’s 7Y0 Betting Line-Shes Got It All mare Bet Sheza Lady the Neatline Pace and 3Y0 Bettors DelightEsthers Light filly Esthers Best for Riverina mentor Jake Strockton in The Carrington Pace.

Iamawingate one/one from gate two on the second line eased three wide running into the final bend to register an easy 6.7 metre victory over Wheres Wood Wood which followed him throughout, with Know The Score which led finishing a head back third. The mile rate 1-58.1.

■ Mark Pitt was successful aboard Riverina visitor Jake Stockton’s 4Y0 Art Major-Rocknfelling mare Rollonart in the 1690 metre Hygain Pace and Harston trainer Dennis Paton’s Pleasure To Have, a 2Y0 colt by Elite Stride from Shez Well Mannered in the Wager Wednesday SHRC Facebook Maiden Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres.

■ Rollon Art led from gate two before surrendering to Hes Charlies Angel (gate five) and making full use of the sprint lane scored by 2.8 metres from King Saint (gate six) from the tail and Hes Charlies Angel who was 3.8 metres away third. The mile rate 1-54.9. The fog rolled in for Pleasure To Have’s race with visibility very poor, however it appeared that Pleasure To Have led throughout to gain the day by 1.5 metres from Aldebaran Mistique which trailed and Minni Mia who was 3.4 metres away third. The mile rate 2-01.4.

■ Longlea’s Matthew Gath snared the Saddleworld Shepparton Trotters Mobile

over 2190 metres with 6Y0 Love You-African Magic mare Hold That Magic in a mile rate of 2-03.2. Despite being out of position from outside the front line, Hold That Magic raced by long time clients Norm and Joan Visca, regained his composure to settle one/one and after angling three wide approaching the final bend, raced clear on turning to register a 1.1 metre victory in advance of Love Me Again (gate four – four pegs) which eased wide on turning, with Spirited Gigi (gate six) third 3.6 metres back after leading.

Kilmore

■ Kilmore raced on Wednesday with an eight race program which attracted plenty of attention.

The Picklebet ‘Get Your Pickle On’ Pace over 2180 metres opened proceedings and it was the Monegeetta combination of David Miles (trainer) and Nick Beale (driver) successful when 3Y0 American Ideal-Izzy Jolie gelding Mason Jolie saluted the judge. Settling six back in the moving line from gate two on the second line as speedy gelding Hurrikane Dusty led from gate four, Mason Jolie gained a lovely three wide trail home in the last lap following both Good Day (gate six – one/three) and Bettor Punter from outside the front line after Our Sweet Jeanne (gate three second line) had gone forward mid-race to park outside the pacemaker. Easing to the centre of the track on turning, Mason Jolie ran home strongly to prevail by 2.6 metres from Better Punter who was far from disgraced, with Our Sweet Jeannie battling on strongly for third 3.4 metres back. The mile rate 1-57.5.

■ Wallan duo Ruth Shinn and son Chris snared a double on the night when 7Y0 A Rocknroll Dance-Shes Pinkalicious gelding Archaa raced by Noel Shinn and Carl O’Dwyer brought up his tenth success when taking the Reg Shinn Memorial Pace over 1690 metres – Reg being Noel’s father. Beginning swiftly from gate five as the mobile gate pulled away to cross the leader Treacherous Times (gate six) and lead, Archaa ran his rivals ragged to record a mile rate of 1-55. 9. Winning by 9.4 metres 4 metres in advance of Elleegant Lane (gate three – three pegs) and polemarker Standanddeliver (four pegs) who was 3.9 metres away third.

■ The team then landed the 2180 metre Jack Knight Memorial 3Y0 Maiden Pace with improving 3Y0 Poster Boy-Shishi gelding Takao raced by Ruth and Noel in a family affair, leading throughout from the pole easily accounting for first starter The Sparkler which trailed from gate two in a 2-02.1 mile rate. Glenange Miss (gate three – three pegs) was third. The margins 9.7 by 1.2 metres.

■ The Bill Harding Memorial Graduation Series 3Y0 and Older Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres saw Merideth co-trainers Emmett and (father) Richard Brosnan victorious with Mister Devereaux, a 3Y0 gelded son of Majestic Son and Lola Devereaux. Driven by Emmett, Mister Devereaux led throughout from outside the front line to score easily by 6.1 metres from Reverand Bob (gate two second line one/two - one/ one), with Tammy Whiz (gate five – one three) third 3.1 metres back after a bad beginning The mile rate 1-59.9.

■ Local Kilmore reinsman Josh Duggan

was successful aboard Kilmore trainer Thomas Parnell’s 5Y0 Always B Miki-Dolly Jasper gelding Miki Mark in the Don Dove Memorial Vicbred Voucher Pace over 2180 metres.

Settling four back in the moving line from an inside second line draw, Miki Mark did a good job after going forward three wide in the last lap to outstay runner up Ima Ballerina (gate four) which trailed the weakening leader Elli Joh (gate three) and win by 4.7 metres. Blue Ocean (gate two –three pegs) was third 1.4 metres back. The mile rate 2-01. was successful aboard Kilmore trainer Thomas Parnell’s 5Y0 Always B Miki-Dolly Jasper gelding Miki Mark in the Don Dove Memorial Vicbred Voucher Pace over 2180 metres. Settling four back in the moving line from an inside second line draw, Miki Mark did a good job after going forward three wide in the last lap to outstay runner up Ima Ballerina (gate four) which trailed the weakening leader Elli Joh (gate three) and win by 4.7 metres. Blue Ocean (gate two – three pegs) was third 1.4 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.

■ Popular Balliang/Bacchus Marsh owner/ trainer/driver Robert Young snared all of the spoils in the C&M Build Group Trotters Mobile when 7Y0 Danny BoucheaKilmainham gelding Scar led all of the way from gate three free wheeling out in front to run out a 1.2 metre victor from Buslin Brody (gate two – three pegs – one/one home turn – three wide in straight). Life On The Hill (restrained from outside the front line to be four pegs) was third 9.7 metres away. It was Scar’s 16th success in 88 outings returning a 2-03.3 mile rate.

Ballarat

■ Ballarat was Thursday’s meeting and Smythes Creek owner/trainer/driver Nathan Cahir’s 8Y0 Somebeach-somewhere-Our Narissa Franco gelding Telemachus returned to the winners list for the first time since December last year when leading throughout from the pole to take the 1710 metre Natures Cargo Pace in a 1-59.9 mile rate.

Dictating terms to perfection, Telemachus never appeared to be in any danger, scoring bvy 3.8 metres from the heavily supported Katunga Express (gate six) which had moved to face the breeze at the bell. Angels Watching which trailed from inside the second line was third 4.5 metres back.

■ Those that took the short odds about polemarker Roseofthewinds in the Woodlands Stud Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres would have been sweating a long way out as she settled three pegs from the pole and four pegs at the bell after Vance Lane one/one from outside the front line dropped to the markers ahead of her with Night Flight (gate five) leading.

With her chances still looking forlorn in the back straight on the final occasion the race changed complexion and Roseoftheeinds moved to three pegs approaching the final bend immediately angling three wide outside the leaders before registering a comfortable 13.7 metre victory over Night Flight and Im Eddie (midfield from extreme draw) who was third 2.1 metres back. The mile rate 1-59.5.

■ Cape Clear part-owner/trainer Bernie Alder has 9Y0 American Ideal-Perfezione mare Skyz Above going ok at present and landed the 1710 metre Interpath Pace. Driven by Blake Pace, Skyz Above was always travelling nicely from gate two on the back of the pacemaker Livermere and after angling into the clear in the straight, finished best to score by a head from Like A Gazelle (four pegs from inside the second line) which used inside runs to flash late. Livermere was third 5.9 metres back in a 1-56.6 mile rate.

The Inters

■ The Brisbane Inter Dominion Series sponsored by betting giant Ladbrokes came to an end at Albion Park last Saturday July 18 which was controversial in some ways as two horses which hadn’t run in the heats were granted a ‘Golden Ticket’ to take their place in the Grand Final –Captains Mistress in the Pacers and Jilliby Dreamlover in the Trotters, with once again only two heats being held over 2138 metres.

This Week

■ Meetings for the week: Wednesday –Ballarat, Thursday – Kilmore, FridayMildura/Melton, Saturday–Melton, Sunday - Cranbourne, Monday: Maryborough, Tuesday- Shepparton.

The ID up to last year had ALWAYS been a three heat series over changing and challenging distance.

THE PACERS FINAL (GROUP 1) –2680 metres

War Dan Buddy - Ryan Sanderson

Triedtotellya – Rohan Hillier

Minos – Jason Grimson

Max Delight =- Will Rixon

Dangerous – Jye Coney

Captains Mistress – Cameron Hart

Cheerstolou – Luke McCarthy

FRONT LINE

Tims A Trooper – Trista Dixon

Dashing – Nathan Dawson

Nyack – James Rattray

Leap To Fame – Grant Dixon Fighter Command – Jason Lee Bay Of Biscay – James Herbertson

A good crowd was in attendance to cheer home local hero Leap To Fame ($2.40) with Captains Mistress which had taken all before her the $2-10 favourite.

The first surprise came when rank outside Cheerstolou beginning at 100 miles an hour crossed to lead with Captains Mistress challenging and taking over entering the straight on the first occasion. War Dan Buddy settlled three pegs and Triedtotellya four pegs.

Dangerous (three wide to the breeze and Minos (three wide - one/one) keeping Max Delight three wide outside him who was being followed up by Leap To Fame who enjoyed no luck whatsoever due to Max Delight being eased to the rear of the field taking Leap To Fame with him.

Going forward again in the back straight prior to the bell, Leap To Fame moved to park in the open for the final circuit. Dropping to the back of Captains Mistress approaching the final bend Leap To Fame angled away from the markers to issue a challenge as the pair raced right away from their rivals, with both horses giving their all and Captains Mistress after having an easier run holding on the score by 1.2 metres, with Nyack (one/four – three wide last lap) running the race of his life for third albeit 7.7 metres away third and Minos fourth 6.5 metres back ahead of both Fighter Command and Bay Of Biscay who both ran on late from the rear.

Without taking anything away from the winner, there is little doubt that Leap To Fame should probably have won.

In quarters of 28.4, 28.3, 27.1 and 26.6 after a 74.8 second lead time, Captains Mistress a 4Y0 daughter of Captaintreacherous and Imaginary Bet raced by Boots Properties Racing Pty Ltd (Manager Mick Boots) and trained by Jason Grimson returned a mile rate of 1-51.8 taking a full second off Leap To Fame and Don Hugo’s equal 1-52.8 set in 2024 and 2025 respectfully.

THE TROTTERS FINAL – (GROUP 1) –2680 METRES

Im Bobby – Will Rixon Gus – Pete McMullen

Gotfeelingsyuouknow – Angus Garrard

Zealous Spur – Trista Dixon

Mufasa Metro – Matt Elkins

Rockinwithattitude – David Miles

Toro Stride – Cameron Hart

FRONT LINE

Lovemetoo – Kerryn Manning

Keayang Stuka – Glen Craven

Hide And Seek – Matthew Neilson

Arcee Phoenix – Chris Svanosio

Golden Sunset – Shane Graham

Jilliby Dreamlover - Jason Lee

Victorian mare

Rockinwithattitude

along with NSW hope Toro Stride were best to begin from gates six and seven with Toro Stride crossing before a retake allowing Rocknwithattitude to once again take control Len Baker

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