The Local Paper. Regional Edition. Wed., Nov. 26, 2025

‘PREPARE FOR BAD FIRE SEASON’

■ Murrindindi, Whittlesea, Nillumbik and Yarra Ranges municipalities are amongst the high fire risk areas in the state, according to Yarra Valley Water.

The utility is urging customers in grass fire and bushfire-prone areas to include a water supply in their emergency plan.

The Country Fire Authority has stated this year’s fire season could be the most dangerous since the 2009 Black Saturday fires. This is part of a trend of fire seasons starting earlier and lasting longer due to changing weather patterns.

The fire danger period czame into effect in some local government areas across the Yarra Valley Water service area from last week and could continue through to May 2026.

High-risk fire areas in Yarra Valley Water’s service area include the shires of Yarra Ranges, Nillumbik, Cardinia, Mitchell, and Murrindindi, and the cities of Hume, Whittlesea, Banyule, Manningham and Maroondah Bridie Fennessy, General Manager Asset Services, Yarra Valley Water, said a reliable water supply cannot be guaranteed during a fire and preparation is crucial.

“We all know grass fires and bushfires can happen at any time, with the potential to devastate properties and damage water pipes and tanks,” Ms Fennessy said.

“During a fire, our customers could experience low water pressure, loss of supply or reduced water quality.”

MERNDA HOSPITAL OPENED BY MINISTER

■ Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and Yan Yean MLA Lauren Kathage opened the new Mernda Community Hospital on Saturday (Nov. 22).

First patients are being admitted this week.

Operated by Northern Health, services will roll out progressively.

Patients will have access to pharmacy, public dental, pathology, allied health, paediatric clinics, respiratory and allergy services.

More services will become available in the new yearincluding renal care and community mental health services, followed by urgent care, imaging and pathology.

“he Mernda facility will alleviate pressure on the Northern Hospital in Epping – supporting the rapidly growing region, which is home to more than one million people and expected to grow by more than 74 per cent by 2036,” said a government representative.

“The Mernda Community Hospital will help take pressure off the Northern Hospital – helping more Victorians get the care they need, sooner,” said Ms Thomas.

Ms Kathage said: “This new community hospital is a game changer for our community –providing local families with more health services, closer to home.”

Thomastown MlA Bronwyn Halfpenny said:“Our community has been so excited for this project to open – it’s fantastic to see it come to life.” Mill Park MLA Lily D'Ambrosio said the hospital will make a massive difference – it will mean more world-class care right on our doorstep.”

The Local Paper

Local News

Eddie’s 50 years

■ Recognition of 50 years’ service to veterans is due to take place this Friday (Nov. 28) for Eddie Davies at Yea-Kinglake SubBranch.

$570,000 grants

■ Yarra Ranges Council has approved its 2026 Annual Grants program, with more than $570,000 in funding to be distributed to 75 not-for-profit community groups and artists across the region.

The Annual Grants program supports a wide range of community-led projects in arts, heritage, festivals, events, and community development across the Yarra Ranges

The grants will be allocated from three funding streams:

■ $189,027 for festivals and events

■ $130,233 for arts and heritage

■ $255,275 for community development

The Council received 100 applications for this year’s intake of the program, with some successful applicants receiving partial funding of their request due to the high number of applications this year.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said that the Annual Grants program was one of Council’s proudest initiatives.

“Seeing the incredible outcomes from this program is one of the things that we look forward to most here at Council,” said Cr Higgins.

“It is quite humbling to see the passion that comes through from the community for their projects, so to be able to support them to achieve their goals in this way is really special.

Highlights from the 2026 Annual Grants:

■ Warburton Valley Market - $7000 for Music and Art at Warburton Valley Market

■ Wandoon Estate Aboriginal Corporation

- $10,000 for Coranderrk Archival Preservation Project

■ Upwey Community Group - $5706 for the Upwey Archies 2026

■ Lilydale Township Action Group – $10,000 for Lilydale Melba Festival & Street Fair

■ Healesville Festival Inc - $15,000 for Healesville Festival

■ Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival$10,000 for Literary Festival

■ Yarra Ranges Film Society - $5000 for Warburton Film Festival 2026

■ Monbulk and District Community Opportunities Working Group - $5000 for Monbulk Intergenerational Project

■ Repower the Dandenongs – $5000 for Repower Festival 2026

■ Mountain Men Inc - $6000 for Mountain Men group activities

■ Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damian Gallagher snd Deputy Mayor Cr Anita Carr have been returned to their top civic positions for another 12 months.

The vote of their peers took place at a special Council meeting held at Alexandra last Wednesday (Nov. 19).

Cr Sandice McAulay acknowledged what she called Cr Gallagher’s outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to the Shire and Council of Murrindindi

She highlighted his “integrity, clear vision and genuine care for the people he represents”, noting that his steady guidance, proactive approach and willingness to listen have strengthened local communities and helped deliver positive outcomes across the region.

Cr McAulay said his contribution has been invaluable and that he is well-suited to lead the Council as Mayor.

Cr Gallagher expressed his honour at continuing to serve the community as Mayor.

“Our democratic system supports every person to be valued and every voice to be

● ● Damian Gallagher and Anita Carr heard. Citizenship is our calling to uphold the values that democracy represents.

“Tonight, I honour my fellow Councillors for their dedication to service, and I thank you most sincerely for supporting me to represent Murrindindi Shire Council once again as Mayor. It is truly the honour of my life.

“The year ahead will be a defining chapter for this Council and for our community. Over the next 100 days, we will set a clear roadmap to achieve

financial sustainability.”

Cr Carr expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue in the role:

“I am delighted to be reelected as Deputy Mayor and to work alongside Mayor Gallagher and my fellow Councillors.

“My focus will be on strengthening community engagement and ensuring that the voices of all residents are heard in shaping the services and priorities that matter most.”

What’s On Show time for CWA

■ The ladies of the Yea branch of the Country Women’s Association were on hand last weekend to assist with a successful Yea Show. Scones and a cuppa were amongst the attractions ... as were the children’s equestrian fancy dress, a dunking machine, and the cattle judging.

Carols at Wallan

■ The sound of Christmas will ring out across Hadfield Park, Wallan, when the Carols take centre stage at 8pm on Saturday, December 13.

After outgrowing its previous home in Kilmore, the event is moving to a bigger venue to welcome more families for an evening of festive music, free activities and community celebration.

“The Christmas Carols are one of the most loved events on our local calendar,” Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said.

“It’s a chance for people of all ages to come together, sing along and celebrate what makes our community so special.”

The move to Wallan provides more room for families and visitors to enjoy the night safely and comfortably, with an evening of festive music and free activities including face painting, pony rides and a special visit from Santa

“Hadfield Park is the perfect spot for this growing event,” Cr Dougall said. “It’s central, accessible and has all the space needed for the thousands of families who love to be part of the carols each year.”

Gates open at 5pm, with pre-show entertainment kicking off before the main concert runs from 6pm to 8pm. Guests can also enjoy food trucks and market stalls.

SEYMOUR DISTRICT CRICKET: ROUND 6 SCORES

■ A-Grade. One Day. Avenel Senior Men A 10/110 v Alexandra A Grade 10/63. At Avenel Recreation Reserve

Pyalong A Grade 7/136 v Seymour 5/138. At Pyalong Recreation Reserve / Pyalong Recreation Reserve

Puckapunyal Senior Mixed A 10/111 v Tallarook A Grade 10/167. At Puckapunyal Cricket Ground / Puckapunyal Cricket Ground

Bye: Yea Tigers A Grade

■ B-Grade. Alexandra B Grade v Avenel Senior Men B, at Leckie Park

Seymour Senior Mixed B 5/146 v Pyalong B Grade 4/260, at Chittick Park (East)

Tallarook B Grade 9/92 v Puckapunyal Senior Mixed B 10/136, at Tallarook Recreation Reserve

Bye: Yea Tigers B Grade ★

A-Grade

Avenel 10/110 v Alexandra 10/63

Avenel won the toss and elected to bat. Avenel - Innings

Travis Stefanos, c Matthew Wal,

c William Ashton ...................................... 14

Bradley Farrell, b William Ashton ............... 13

Andrew Thomson, lbw William Ashton ....... 0

Fill-in, b William Ashton .............................. 18

Warren Dowley, lbw William Ashton ........... 14

Fill-in, b William Ashton .............................. 2

Thomas Byers, b Joshua Crane ................... 2

Hudson Black, run out Scott Whitehead, Benjamin Wallis ........................................ 12

Gus Leunig, not out ..................................... 11

Nicholas Hart, b Levi Ronalds ...................... 0

Jamie Kanters, b Fill-In ............................... 2

Extras (16WD, 0NB, 5LB, 1B, 0P) ................ 22

Total (40 overs) ....................................... 10/110

Fall of Wickets: 1-18 Bradley Farrell, 2-18 Andrew Thomson, 3-40 Player, 4-69 Travis Stefanos, 5-75 Player, 6-82 Thomas Byers, 7-83 Warren Dowley, 8-107 Hudson Black, 9-07 Nicholas Hart, 10-110 Jamie Kanters.

Bowling (O-M-R-W): Matthew Wal 6-3-16-0, FillIn 5-1-14-1, Joshua Crane 9-4-16-1, William Ashton 9-1-21-6, Jordan Ferrier 2-0-7-0, Will Ellis 2-0-4-0, Vinu Hewage 4-0-15-0, Levi Ronalds 40-11-1.

Alexandra - Innings

Scott Whitehead, lbw Fill-in ....................... 17

Benjamin Wallis, c Bradley Farrell, b Fill-In ....................................................... 9

Matthew Wal, c Travis Stefanos, b Fill-In .... 1

Private player, b Jamie Kanters ................... 1

William Ashton, c Gus Leunig, b Fill-In ..... 13

Levi Ronalds, c Travis Stefanos,

b Jamie Kanters ........................................ 1

Joshua Crane, b Jamie Kanters .................. 5

Vinu Hewage, c Warren Dowley,

b Jamie Kanters ........................................ 0

Fill-In, lbw Jamie Kanters ............................ 0

Jordan Ferrier, not out .................................. 0

Will Ellis, b Jamie Kanters ........................... 0

Extras (11WD, 1NB, 1LB, 3B, 0P) ................. 16

Total (23.5 overs) ..................................... 10/63

Fall of Wickets: 1-35 Benjamin Wallis, 2-36 Scott Whitehead, 3-37 Player, 4-44 Matthew Wall, 545 Levi Ronalds, 6-61 William Ashton, 7-61

Joshua Crane, 8-61 Player, 9-63 Vinu Hewage, 10-83 Will Ellis.

Bowling: Fill-In 9-0-24-3, Nicholas Hart 3-0-210, Fill-In 2-1-2-1, Travis Stefanos 1-0-1-0.

★

A-Grade

Pyalong 7/136 v Seymour 5/138

Pyalong won the toss and elected to bowl.

Seymour - Innings

Jason Brown, b Steven Mitchell ................... 1

Lachlan Drummond, c James

Hadjiloukas, b Alexander Ryan ............. 86

Cameron Evans, c Alexander Ryan, b Matthew Pratt ........................................ 11

Daniel Bergowicz, c Matthew Wilkins, b Anthony Pratt ......................................... 2

Braidon Horkings, c&b Mitchell Wittig ........ 5

Brodey Pointon, not out ............................... 12

Luke Woolan, not out ................................... 3

Hugh Smith

Fraser Rutherford

Jared Cram

Kharl Sison

Extras (10WD, 4NB, 2LB, 2B, 0P) ................. 18

Total (30.1 overs) ...................................... 5/138

Pyalong - Innings

Dermott Clancy

James Hadjiloukas

Jamie Pryor

Jospeh Ryan

Matthew Wilkins

Matthew Pratt

Steven Mitchell

Alexander Ryan

James Wilkins

Mitchell Wittig

Anthony Pratt

Extras (0WD, 0NB, 0LB, 0B, 0P) ................... 0

Total (44 overs) ........................................ 7/136

Bowling: Brodey Pointon 7-2-10-0, Cameron Evans 4.5-0-26-0, Braidon Horkings 9-0-17-1, Daniel Bergowicz 9-2-36-2, Lachlan Drummond 9.1--29-2, Hugh Smith 5-0-15-1.

Weekend Bowls

Division 3

Shepparton Park 90, 16 d East Shepparton 77, 2. Eildon 96, 16 d Shepparton Golf 61, 2. Mooroopna Golf 87, 16 d Alex-andra 65, 2. Rushworth 75, 14 d Euroa 73, 4.

Division 4

Merrigum 62, 4 d by Dookie 75, 14. Seymour 70, 14 d Tatura Hill Top 68, 4. Yea 84, 5 d Shepparton 71, 3. East Shepparton 76, 14 d Tallygaroopna 71, 4.

Division 5

Murchison 70, 14 d Shepparton Park 49, 2. Rushworth 53, 2 d by Vilolet Town 67, 14. Nagambie 50, 4 d by Colbinabbin 71,12. Tatura Hill Top 47, 0 d by Seymour VRI 61, 16.

Seymour District Junior Cricket

■ Alexandra U13 Mixed 2/81 v Seymour U13 3/80. At Alexandra Showgrounds and Recreation Reserve

Yea Tigers U13 Mixed v Pyalong U13. At Yea High School

Pucka U13 Mixed 8/10 v Tallarook U13 4/235. Puckapunyal Cricket Ground - Oval #1

Yea Golf Club

■ Yea Golf Club enjoyed a terrific turnout on Saturday, (Nov. 22) with 30 men and sevemn ladies hitting the course as the new seventh green - under the careful supervision of Bob Glenister - continues to take shape and impress.

Monthly Medal & Sichlau Round 6

The men competed for the Monthly Medal alongside the sixth round of the Sichlau Trophy (best four rounds to count).

Anthony La Grutta (18) claimed the medal with an excellent 65 nett, winning on countback from Jack Kenney (24).

Young gun Jobe Dunne (22) continued his rise, finishing third with 66 nett, while Brian Simmons (12) and Martin Lowe (18) shared fourth on 67 nett.

Other highlights included:

■ NTP 19th: Neil Peterson

■ Putting: Darcy Pell with an impressive 24 putts

■ Club Award: Steve Rumney

In the overall Sichlau Trophy, consistency paid off for Alan Pell, taking the title with a total of 282, edging out joint runners-up Brian Simmons and Neil Peterson on 283. Kevin Coghlan (284) and John Phillips (286) rounded out the top contenders. Ladies Stroke Event

A superb round from Sharon Grogan (24) saw her dominate the ladies field, firing 90 off the stick for a nett 66 to win comfortably.

Penny Britton (31) claimed second with nett 73, while Meryl Connell took NTP on the 18th.

This Wednesday marks the first Gender Competition of the Summer, a stableford event starting with a 9am arrival for a 9.30am shotgun start.

Last Wednesday, 25 men competed in a par event. Jack Kenney (30) won with +6, edging out Jobe Dunne (24), also on +6. Tony Rule took third at +5 with a personal best of 81. Zach Pell (15) and Phil Armstrong (20) both finished at +1. Zach was nearest the pin on the 14th, and Trevor Connell claimed the Club Award.

weekly. Print copies fortnightly.

In association with the Established September 14, 1969

Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.

ABOUT US

Incorporating the traditions of the Evelyn Observer (Est. 1873), Seymour Express (Est. 1872), Yea Advertiser (Est. 1995), Yarra Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995), Whittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995).

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

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

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

• Mitchell Shire Edition: Mitchell Shire

CONTACT US

Phone: 1800 231 311, 9489 2222, 9439 9927, 0450 399 932, 5797 2656. Reg. Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 (same address for 31 years)

Mail: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

Web: www.LocalPaper.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.LocalMedia.com.au

E-Mail: Editor@LocalPaper.com.au

Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Editor@LocalMedia.com.au

Bissett-Johnson, Cartoonist

Editor: Ash Long

Kemp, Art Rob Foenander, Music

Features Editor: Peter Mac

Columnists: Len Baker, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask, John O’Keefe

Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmel

Logistics: Tyler Sandiford, Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky

Credit Manager: Michael Conway OAM, Fast Action Debt Recovery, 0402 142 866

Ash on Wednesday Activist queries CEO

■ Craig Lloyd, the City of Whittlesea Chief Executive Officer, is no stranger to publicity.

As a $400,000-a-year public servant, the Macedon Ranges resident came in for criticism from a report written for the Commssion into the City of Whittlesea.

The report findings questioned if Mr Lloyd had difficulties in navigating the borders between being an adminstator and those of being a politician.

The Commission was ordered by Local Government Minister Nick Staikos after he suspended thenWhittlesea Mayor Aidan McLindon for six moths.

Mr McLindon controversially stood for election in the Werribee by-election, after having just won the Mayor’s job at the City of Whittlesea.

The Commission queried a number of aspects of Mr Lloyd’s performance, reporting that he had been in almost daily contact with the Local Government Inspectorate.

Inspectorate staff were concerned for Mr Lloyd.

In the past week, Mr Lloyd has come under the criticism of the Council Watch Victoria group, run by Dean Hurlstone.

Council Watch has queried proposals at Whittlesea which would seem to give more power to Mr Lloyd.

One proposal is that any notice of motion from a Councillor would have to first have the approval of all least one-third of the elected Councillors.

The CEO might have powers of veto, suggests Council Watch.

Another query from Council Watch enquiries whether or not Mr

Long Shots

www.LocalPaper.com.au Personal: www.AshLong.com.au

“For

Local

Lloyd has a current contract with the City of Whittlesea.

“ Is Whittlesea’s CEO currently out of contract — and therefore acting in a role that the Local GovernmentActsays cannot legally continue without a valid employment contract?”

Council Watch asks in a social media post this week.

“The CEO’s contract could only run for a maximum of five Years

“Section 44(2) of the Local GovernmentAct2020explicitly states: ‘A Chief Executive Officer must be appointed under a contract of employment… that does not exceed five years.”

Mr Lloyd signed his original contract in October 2020.

“To continue as CEO, Council must reappoint him under a new contract.”

The law requires a formal Council resolution ... there is no such resolution in any published Whittlesea Council minutes, confidential or otherwise.

“The only item Counci l considered was a Performance Review in October.

“The minutes ... provided show that the only CEO-related agenda item was CEO Annual Performance Review (confidential)

“This appears in the Council meeting confirmed October 14, 2025 — with no item relating to contract renewal, reappointment, extension or renegotiation.

“A performance review is not a contract, a reappointment, an extension, a lawful instrument permitting continuation in the role. There was no decision, no vote, no contract tabled, and no resolution author-ising his ongoing employment.”

Flashback

The Local Paper

In association with the Established September 14, 1969 Online weekly. Print copies fortnightly. Published in localised editions in 40 areas across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and some country areas.

MANSFIELD

Mansfield readership is in the township of Mansfield. The Mansfield Shire comprises Ancona, Barjarg, Barwite, Bonnie Doon, Boorolite, Bridge Creek, Delatite, Gaffneys Creek, Goughs Bay, Howes Creek, Howqua, Howqua Hills, Howqua Inlet, Jamieson, Kevington, Lake Eildon, Nillahcootie, Piries, Sawmill Settlement, Tolmie, Woodfield and Woods Point. Mansfield Shire is home to 10,546 people, living in approximately 6612 homes.

MITCHELL

Incorporating the traditions of the Seymour Express (Est. 1872) Mitchell Shire comprises Beveridge, Broadford, Kilmore, Puckapunyal, Seymour, Tallarook, Tooborac, Trawool, Wallan, Wandong and Heathcote Junction. Mitchell Shire is home to more than 49,216 people, living in approximately 16,321 homes.

MURRINDINDI

Incorporating the traditions of the Yea Advertiser (Est. 1995). Murrindindi comprises Acheron, Alexandra, Buxton, Cathkin, Castella, Caveat, Devils River, Dropmore, Eildon, Fawcett, Flowerdale, Ghin Ghin, Glenburn, Gobur, Granton, Highlands, Homewood, Kanumbra, Kerrisdale, Killingworth, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West, Koriella, Limestone, Maintongoon, Marysville, Molesworth, Murrindindi, Narbethong, Pheasant Creek, Rubicon, Strath Creek, Taggerty, Taylor Bay, Terip Terip, Thornton, Toolangi, Whanregarwen, Yarck, Yea. Murrindindi Shire is home to more than 14,478 people, living in approximately 6293 homes.

NILLUMBIK (RURAL)

Incorporating the traditions of the Diamond Valley Advertiser (Est. 1995) and The Advertiser (earlier Evelyn Observer) (Est. Oct. 31, 1873) Nillumbik Shire (rural) comprises Arthurs Creek, Bend of Islands, Christmas Hills, Cottles Bridge, Diamond Creek, Doreen, Eltham, Eltham North, Hurstbridge, Kangaroo Ground, Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West, Nutfield, Panton Hill, Plenty, Research, Smiths Gully, St Andrews, Strathewen, Warrandyte North, Watsons Creek. Nillumbik Shire is home to more than 64,659 people, living in approximately 21,753 homes.

STRATHBOGIE (PART)

Starthbogie readership area comprises Avenel, Euroa, Nagambie, Violet Town. Strathbogie Shire is home to more than 11,578 people, living in approximately 5768 homes.

WHITTLESEA (RURAL)

Incorporating the traditions of the Whittlesea Advertiser (Est. 1995) Whittlesea Post (Est. 1924), and The Advertiser (earlier Evelyn Observer) (Est. Oct. 31, 1873) Whittlesea Post readership area comprises Arthurs Creek, Beveridge, Donnybrook, Doreen, Eden Park, Hazel Glen, Humevale, Kinglake West, Mernda, South Morang, Whittlesea, Wollert, Woodstock, Yan Yean. The City of Whittlesea is home to more than 197,491 people, living in approximately 71,014 homes.

YARRA RANGES

Incorporating the traditions of the Lilydale and Yarra valley Express (Est. June 30, 1886) Yarra Ranges readership area comprises Badger Creek, Chirnside Park, Chum Creek, Coldstream, Dixons Creek, Don Valley, East Warburton, Fernshaw, Gilderoy, Gladysdale, Gruyere, Healesville, Hoddles Creek, Launching Place, Lilydale, Millgrove, Mooroolbark, Mount Evelyn, Powelltown, Seville, Seville East, Steels Creek, Wandin East, Wandin North, Warburton, Wesburn, Wonga Park (part), Woori Yallock, Yarra Glen, Yarra Junction, Yellingbo and Yering. Yarra Ranges Shire is home to more than 158,831 people, living in approximately 58,509 homes.

to new generator ‘Mitchell firmly on the map’ Local News

■ Murrindindi Shire Council has received funding through AusNet's Energy Resilience Community Fund for the purchase of a trailer-mounted mobile generator.

“This new generator will strengthen our emergency preparedness and community resilience across the Shire, so our communities are better equipped to respond to and recover from severe weather events, natural disasters and prolonged power outages,” said a Council represebtative.

“Recent storms and floods have highlighted the vulnerability of our region, with many communities experiencing extended outages and isolation.

“From early next year, the mobile generator will provide flexible, reliable backup power for Emergency Relief Centres helping keep essential services running when they are needed most.

“Unlike fixed generators, the mobile unit can be deployed wherever it is most needed in a timely manner, making it a flexible solution for our geographically diverse Shire

“It will support lighting, heating, refrigeration, communications, phone charging and other essential services at Emergency Relief Centres, town halls, recreation reserves, community hubs, and during emergency situations.”

Murrindindi Shire Council Sustainability and Environment Portfolio Councillor Sue Carpenter was optimistic about the improvement to Council’s ability to support our communities during emergencies.

■ Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall says he is honoured to have been elected by fellow Councillors to serve a second consecutive term.

“It is a privilege to continue representing our community at such an important time in our Shire’s history,” Cr Dougall said.

“Over the past year, I have enjoyed the challenge of leading Council and have been inspired by the many local heroes who work tirelessly every day for the greater good.

“Their dedication reminds me why this role matters – because it is about people, community, and the future we are building together.

“I would like to sincerely thank Cr Bob Cornish for his service as Deputy Mayor over the past year. His contribution has been greatly valued.

“I now look forward to working alongside Cr Timothy Hanson in his new role as Deputy Mayor. Together, we will continue to build on the strong momentum we have achieved.

“Mitchell is facing the scale of the state’s highest growth. With that comes both challenges and opportunities. Managing this change demands energy, tenacity and creativity – qualities I see every day in our Council team and our community.

“I am proud of the Council Plan, which I believe is a sector-leading document. Over the next period, it will unlock significant organisational alignment and accountability, ensuring we deliver on the priorities that matter most.

“Mitchell is now firmly on the map. This has been the result of deliberate effort – building relationships, establishing credibility, making the case and demanding a fair share for our community.

“We must continue this work with determination and pride.

“I am grateful to be entrusted with this responsibility once again. With the support of my fellow Councillors, our dedicated staff, local partners and other levels of government, I am confident we can continue to strengthen liveability, deliver essential infrastructure, and advocate for the services our growing region needs,” Cr Dougall said.

Mitchell Shire CEO Mary Agostino, Mayor Cr John Dougall and Deputy Mayor Cr Timothy Hanson

Library representative

■ Expressions of Interest are invited from Strathbogie Shire residents for the position of Strathbogie Community Representative on the Goulburn Valley Regional Library Corporation Board

The Corporation, trading as Goulburn Valley Libraries, provides Library services to the communities in the municipalities of City of Greater Shepparton, Moira Shire, and Strathbogie Shire

There are 11 Libraries in the townships of Avenel, Cobram, Euroa, Mooroopna, Nagambie, Nathalia, Numurkah, Shepparton, Tatura, Violet Town, Yarrawonga and Mobile Library services that serves smaller communities.

‘Shop in Our Shire’

■ Nillumbik’s ‘Shop in our Shire’ promotion is back for the festive season. Nillumbik’s 12 Days of Christmas promotion will give shoppers the chance to win a $500 gift card to spend at the locally owned Nillumbik business of their choice Shoppers pick up a postcard from their favourite local business nd get your Christmas sorted by shopping the 12 themes.

Where to pick up your free copy of The Local Paper

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Alexandra Newsagency. 82-84 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Corner Hotel. 65 Grant St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Endeavour Alexandra (BP). 10 Downey St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Foodworks. 102 Grant St.

■

■ ■ THORNTON. Thornton General Store. 1365 TaggertyThornton Rd.

■ ■ WATTLE GLEN. Peppers Paddock General Store. 13 Kangaroo Ground-Wattle Glen Rd.

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Champions IGA Supermarket. 2/16 Church St.

■ WARRANDYTE. Warrandyte Newsagency/Post Office. 100 Melbourne Hill Rd.

■ WESBURN. Hotel. 2882 Warburton Hwy.

■

■ WONGA PARK. IGA Xpress. 70 Jumping Creek Rd.

Court Lists

Seymour Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings

Local News

Cox is Whit. Mayor

■ The Labor Party is back in charge at Whittlesea Council, with long-time ALP Councillor Lawrie Cox voted as Mayor at last week special meeting (Nov. 18).

It appears that controversial right-wing Councillor, Aidan McLindon, played apart in forming the seven votes won by Cr Cox, an absolute majority.

■

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Mount Pleasant Hotel. 90 Grant St.

■

■ ALEXANDRA. Nutrien Harcourts. 56 Grant St.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. El Azar Milk Bar. 13 Church St.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 29 Beech St.

■ WOORI YALLOCK. Hillcrest Little Store. 1745 Warburton Hwy.

■ WOORI YALLOCK. Woori Yallock Newsagency. Shop 4,1585 Warburton Hwy.

■

■

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Shamrock Hotel. 80 Grant St.

■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Simpson’s Fuel (Caltex). 25 Aitken St.

■

■ ■ ■ ALEXANDRA. Totally Trout. 42 Downey St.

■ ■ BUXTON. Blue Igloo Roadhouse. 2200 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Bowls Club. 101 Church St.

■ ■ ■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea Court House. 74 Church St.

■ ■ WHITTLESEA. Whittlesea NewsXpress. 45 Church St.

■ ■ WOLLERT. Wollert General Store. 491 Epping Rd.

■ YARRA GLEN. IGA Supermarket. 1/38 Bell St.

■

■ YARRA GLEN. Yarra Glen Newsagency. 32 Bell St.

■ YARRA JUNCTION. Yarra Junction Newsagency. 2454 Warburton Hwy.

■

■

■ ■ BUXTON. Buxton Hotel. 2192 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ BUXTON. Shell Buxton. 2093 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■

■ ■ DIAMOND CREEK. Diamond Creek Newsagency. Shop 62a Main Rd, Diamond Creek Plaza.

■ ■ DOREEN. Doreen General Store. 920 Yan Yean Rd.

■

■

■ ■ EILDON. Foodworks. 18 Main St.

■ ■ ELTHAM. Eltham Newsagency. 2/963 Main Rd.

■

■

■ ■ EPPING. APCO Service Station. Cnr McDonalds Rd and High St.

■ ■ EPPING. Epping RSL. Harvest Home Rd.

■

■

■

■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Community House. 36 Silver Creek Rd.

■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Flowerdale Hotel. 3325 Whittlesea-Yea Rd.

■ ■ FLOWERDALE. Hazeldene

General Store. 6 Curlings Rd.

■ ■ GLENBURN. Glenburn Roadhouse. 3883 Melba Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ HURSTBRIDGE. Hurstbridge Newsagency. 900 Main Hustbridge Rd.

■ ■ ■ ■ KANGAROO GROUND. Kangaroo Ground General Store. 280 Eltham-Yarra Glen Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Cafe. WhittleseaKinglake Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ KINGLAKE. Foodworks. 12 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ KINGLAKE. Kinglake Pub. 28 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■

■ ■ ■ ■ KINGLAKE. United Service Station. 2 Glenburn-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ LAURIMAR. Laurimar Newsagency. 95 Hazel Glen Dr.

■ ■ ■ ■ MANSFIELD. Foodworks. 119 High St.

■ ■ MARYSVILLE. Foodworks. 40A Darwin St.

■ ■ MERNDA. Mernda Villages Post Office. 50 Mernda Village Dr.

■ ■ MOLESWORTH. Molesworth Store. 4353 Goulburn Valley Hwy.

■ ■ NARBETHONG. Black Spur Inn. 436 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ NARBETHONG. Black Spur Roadhouse. 264 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ ■ ■ PANTON HILL. Panton Hill General Store. 586 Kangaroo

■ ■ PHEASANT CREEK. Pheasant Creek Store. 884 Whittlesea-Kinglake Rd.

■ ■ RESEARCH. Research Post Office. 1546 Main Rd.

■ ■ SMITHS GULLY. Smiths Gully General Store. 914 Kangaroo

■

Cr Martin Taylor had been keen to continue the Mayoral role that he has held for the past seven months, succeeding Cr McLindon who had been suspended for six months.

As recently as the previous weekend, Cr Taylor had posted social media messaging that he was keen to continue in the role. He was not nominated.

There appears to be little love lost between Cr Taylor and Cr McLindon.

■

■

■ ■ YARCK. Buck’s Country Bakehouse. 6585 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YARCK. Giddy Goat Cafe. 6606 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ YARCK. Yarck Hotel. Maroondah Hwy.

Mitchell Shire Edition

■ BEVERIDGE. Beveridge Post Office. Lot 1 Old Hume Hwy.

■

■

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Corner Store. 89 High St.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Amble Inn Cafe. 24 High St.

■

■ YEA. Country Club Hotel. 18 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Endeavour Petroleum (BP). 31 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Hotel. 100 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Newsagency. 67 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Post Office. 123 High St.

■

■

■ YEA. Foodworks. 10 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Giddy Coat Cafe. 94

High St.

■ BROADFORD. Broadford Service Station. 165 High St.

Voting for Cr Cox were Crs Colwell, Cox, Gunn, Lappan, McLindon, Taylor and Zinni. Cr Cox beat Cr David Lenberg for the top position. Cr Lenberg had been nominated by Crs Christine Stowe and Michael Labrador.

Cr Cox recounted that he first joined the Council in 1979, and was Shire President in 1982. He was Mayor in 2018.

He acknowledged the contributions of Cr Taylor and Cr Zinni.

He described his role of Mayor as "first amongst equals".

In his reflections, Cr Cox made mention of former Cr Tom Joseph, who looked likely to be the first person of Indian origin to become Mayor before the Council was axed by the State Government. Cr Cox said Cr Joseph was treated poorly.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Grand Central Hotel. 64

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Marmalades. 20 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Mint and Jam. 46 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Commercial Hotel. 31 High St.

■ BROADFORD. High Street Bakery. 67A High St.

■ ■ BROADFORD. IGA Supermarket. 65 High St.

Memories of past Shire Secretaries and CEOs were made by Cr Cox, with particular reference to Lindsay Esmonde. He also said that he believed former CEO Simon Overland was treated poorly.

■

■ ■ YEA. Nutrien Harcourts. 52

■

High St.

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Peppercorn Hotel. 21 Station St.

■ ■ YEA. Provender Bakery. 56 High St.

■ BROADFORD. Stuty’s Bakehouse. 91-93 High St.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Hotel. 825 Donnybrook Rd.

■ DONNYBROOK. Donnybrook Post Office. 810 Donnybrook Rd.

■

■ ■ KILMORE. BP. 102 Sydney St.

■ YEA. Rendezvous In Yea. 10

■

High St.

■

Cr Blair Colwell will be Deputy Mayor, having been nominated by Crs Taylor and Lappan. The six votes of absolute majority were cast in his favour by Crs Colwell, Cox, Gunn, Lappan, Taylor and Zinni

Net zero in sight

■

■

■ ■ YEA. Royal Mail Hotel. 88

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Bakery. 44 High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Newsagency. 74

High St.

■ ■ YEA. Yea Take-Away. 68 High St.

Lilydale and Yarra Valley Express Edition

■ ■ COLDSTREAM. Coldstream Post Office/Newsagency. The Lodge Shopping Centre. 670-672 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ CROYDON NORTH. Croydon North Newsagency. 5 Exeter Rd.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. BP. 66 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Coles Express. 123 Maroondah Hwy.

■ KILMORE. Kemp’s Bakery. 65 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Bakery. 54 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St.

■ ■ KILMORE. Red Lion Hotel. 29-31 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. Royal Oak Hotel. 29-31 Sydney St.

■ KILMORE. United Service Station. 127-145 Powlett St.

■ ■ SEYMOUR. IGA O’Keefe’s. 10/115 Anzac Ave.

■ SEYMOUR. Liberty Seymour. 37-39 Emily St.

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour NewsXpress. 66 Station St.

■ SEYMOUR. Seymour South Post and Lotto. 75 Anzac Ave.

■ ■ ■ SEYMOUR. Prince of Wales Hotel. 48 Emily St.

■

■

■ ■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Grand Hotel. 270 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Healesville Newsagency. 195 Maroondah Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ HEALESVILLE. Tobacco Station/Tatts. Shop 11, Healesville Walk.

■ ■ LAUNCHING PLACE. Launching Place General Store. 2200 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ LAUNCHING PLACE. Home Hotel. 2170 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St.

■ ■ MILLGROVE. Licensed Grocery. 3043 Warburton Hwy.

■

■ ■ ■ MOUNT EVELYN. Mount Evelyn Newsagency. 1A Wray Cres.

■ ■ RINGWOOD. Burnt Bridge Newsagency. 434 Maroondah Hwy.

■ ■ SEVILLE. Wooworths Seville. 568 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ WANDIN. Wandin Newsagency. 18/2 Union Rd.

■ ■ WARBURTON. Bakery. 3415 Warburton Hwy.

■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Grand Hotel. 140 Yarra St.

■ SEYMOUR. Royal Hotel. 26 Emily St.

■ SEYMOUR. Terminus Hotel. 26 Station St.

■ SEYMOUR. Top Shop. Cnr Anzac Ave and Delatite Rd.

■ ■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook General Store. 36 Main Rd.

■ TALLAROOK. Tallarook Hotel. 15 Main Rd.

■ TRAWOOL. Trawool Estate/ Hotel. 8150 Goulburn Valley Hwy.

■ ■ WALLAN. United Service Station. 11-14 High St.

■ ■ WALLAN. Wallan News and Lotto. Shop 6, 55 High St.

■ WALLAN EAST. New Rattlers Inn. Station St.

■ WANDONG. Caltex Star Mart. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ ■ ■ WANDONG. Dundee’s Fish and Cips. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. IGA Supermarket. 3272 Epping-Kilmore Rd.

■ WANDONG. Wandong Post News and Tatts. 3272 EppingKilmore Rd.

■ ■ WANDONG. Kemp’s Wandong Bakery. 372 EppingKilmore Rd.

Thursday, November 27 Ali, Brydon Atkinson, Michael Baker, Kye Bashar, K M Saiful Benmasaud, Nathan Timothy Bodle, Dale Brennan, Tony James Brooks, Duane Bult, Daniel Clarke, Taisha Cornell, Melonie Crawford, Adam Djuric, Miroslav Donnelly, Lachlan Dow, Caroline Jane Dow, Patricia Edwards, Nathan Mark Ekberg, Joshua James Elson, Georgia Ford, Troy Mark Formosa, Shane Fullerton, Sarah Louise Garlick, Jessica Grant, Travis Haidar, Ali Abdul Hammond, Anthony James Jones, Jonathan Julka, Nitish Lincoln, Colin Lincoln, Corey Lincolns Earthmoving Pty Ltd Macpherson, Kaleb John Marchant, Pamela Lynette Mcmaster, Michael Mowbray, Adam Charles Reid, Darren Richards, Matt Scerry, Wayne Shepherdson, Nathan Andrew Singh, Yadbeer Skinner, Melissa Speechley, Stewart Francis Stefuly, Ricky Emrick Tabernaberri, Carlos Tran, Kevin Boi Trimboli, Mario Trott, Sherrie Tubecki, John Williams, Nikitka Wood, John Trevor Friday, November 28 Borham, Shane Dean, James Harn, Paul Wednesday, December 3 Agha-Sayed-Mirza, Ramin Cleveland, Rosemaree Cooper, Kieran Cottier, Nicole Gazzara, Katlin James Hunt, Cheyenne Kamboj, Preet Keamy-Quirk, Caleb Keating, Steele James Marshall, Thomas Maunder, Chrystal Muto, Alberto Nelson, Kiera Singh, Tushar Wood, Jessica Caryn Mansfield Magistrates’ Court Criminal Case Listings Wednesday, November 26 Bradley, Mathew Anthony Burgess, Luella Ann Butterworth, Flynn William Crawford, Benjamin Fletcher, Brenda Goschnick, Dean Gregory Hargrave, Turi Tiaki Hayston, Guy Hubbard, Mathew Allan Kagita, Rajarshi Linzer, Christopher Linzer, Stephen Malik, Paramjeet Montgomery, Kelvin Mwita, Daniel Makena Pullinger, Curtis Seir, Connor Sparkes, Matthew Swain, Brett Swan, Thomas Tahir, Muhammad Haroon Turabi, Mohammad

Ski patrol cuts

■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell has called on Environment Minister steve Dimopoulos to guarantee that ski patrols at Mt Stirling alpine resort will not be cut.

■ Nillumbik Council has secured a $2.5 million grant to go all-electric at Eltham Leisure Centre , as part of the Federal Government’s Community Energy Upgrades Fund

“This project is an essential step in Council achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2030,” said a Nillumbik Shire representative.

The leisure centre is Nillumbik Council’s most-used facility, as well as its highest energy user.

By replacing the centre’s ageing gas boilers with high-efficiency electric heat pumps, Council will immediately cut the facility’s overall carbon emissions by an estimated 33 per cent or 631 tonnes each year.

Moving from gas to electric allows the purchase of 100 per cent renewable energy, which would cut emissions to zero.

Nillumbik is one of 10 Victorian councils to receive a grant in the second round of the Fund

Nillumbik Mayor Cr John Dumaresq said Council would match the Federal Government grant and described it as a worthwhile investment that would deliver long-term cost savings.

“I’m thrilled that our much-loved Eltham Leisure Centre will play a big part in reducing carbon emissions across Council’s operations,” Cr Dumaresq said.

“Making the switch to all-electric at the leisure centre is essential to achieving netzero emissions by 2030 for all of Council’s operations. Just another great reason to head to Eltham Leisure Centre.”

■ ■ ■ ■ WARRANDYTE. Quinton’s Supa IGA Supermarket. 1/402 Warrandyte Rd.

■ WANDONG. Magpie and Stump Hotel. 3313 EppingKilmore Rd.

“Recent reporting revealed that the ski patrol at Mt Stirling is in danger of being cut to save money, following Alpine Resorts Victoria’s admission that Mt Stirling resort has been operating under financial deficits for several years,” Ms Lovell said.

Local Briefs

Symes back to NY

■ Northern Victoria MLC Jaclyn Symes will again travel to New York.

Ms Symes has announced in parliament that she will travel to the United States next year, after the 2025-26 State Budget

“Despite ongoing concern about Victoria’s finances, Ms Symes has maintained that the state’s position is “strong”, and government sources said Ms Symes’ trip was not out of the ordinary and was the ‘business as usual’ post-Budget trip,” reported the HeraldSun

“It comes after taxpayers were billed more than $70,000 in June for Ms Symes’ first overseas trip, which was widely considered a rescue mission to convince ratings agencies not to impose a damaging credit downgrade.”

Dementia care

■ Dementia Australia is offering support in Yea between December 2-5.

A Community Information Session, with a talk by Seniors Rights Victoria, will be held from 9.30am-12,.30pm on Tuesday, December 2.

A session will be held at alexandra from 1pm-3.30pm on Wednesday, December 3. Wednesday 3 December, 1pm-3:30pm, Alexandra

The Mobile Health Van Brain Hub will hold a session at eildon from 9.30am-11am on Thursday, December 4. Learn about dementia and the services and support available through Dementia Australia.

That afternoon, from 2pm-3.30pmm, there will be a session at Kinglake.

Iinformation about the support and services offered by Dementia Australia, the Council on Ageing, Senior Rights Victoria, Live Up, Yea and District Memorial Hospital and Alexandra District Health will be held at Yea from 9am-12 Noon on Friday, December 5.

Bookings are essential. Visit https:// www.eventbrite.com.au/e/dementiaaustralia-brain-hub-yea-vic-registration1903189363619 for details and to register. Inetrested people can also call the National Dementia Helpline to register for this course on 1800 100 500.

An estimated 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and the estimated 1.7 million people are involved in their care.

University City

■ La Trobe University’s Bundoora campus will house three distinct villages and a city centre for Melbourne’s north under an a masterplan, bringing housing to 15,000 people and facilities for 40,000 students.

The University this month unveiled the masterplan for La Trobe University City, a $5 billion initiative that will transform its north Melbourne campus “into a vibrant, sustainable and innovative city”, publicists say.

The long-term vision, developed through consultation with stakeholders and the community, including the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, will further develop the 255-hectare campus as a dynamic centre of innovation, knowledge and sustainability.

Chancellor John Brumby said University City reimagined La Trobe’s place in the broader community.

“University City could boost Gross Regional Product in Melbourne’s north-east by an estimated $440 million each year by the completion of the project, while additional interstate and international students could spend around $202 million per annum in the Victorian economy,” Mr Brumby said.

"La Trobe University City will not only transform our campus, it will create a thriving community that drives innovation and economic prosperity.”

The 30-year project has at its core a research and innovation ecosystem, leveraging La Trobe's strengths in health innovation, artificial intelligence, sustainable agriculture and food and digital transformation.

La Trobe Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said the initiative would enhance the quality of life for students and staff and contribute significantly to the economic and social fabric of Melbourne's north.

“University City is a bold, purpose-built innovation city where education drives everything - and sparks so much more,” Professor Farrell said.

‘We can’t do this on our own any more’

- Board member

■ Alexandra District Hospital Board Member Alan Studley has justified the proposed voluntary amalgamnation with Eastern Health.

In an open letter to the community, the Taggerty resident said: “As someone who has lived and worked in this district, I know how important our health services are to the people of Alexandra, nearby towns and right across Murrindindi

“Alexandra District Health has always been more than a hospital. It’s a part of the story of this town and the people who built it,” Mr Studley said.

“That’s exactly why our Board is taking planning for the future so seriously. We’ve been looking at how we can make sure our local health service stays strong, sustainable and local for years to come.

“That’s what our exploration of a voluntary amalgamation with Eastern Health is all about.

I want to be clear – this is not a takeover and it’s not being forced on us. It’s about protecting what matters and improving what we can.

“We’re already working closely with Eastern Health, and it’s been paying off. Because of that partnership, people can now get cancer treatment and blood and iron infusions right here in Alexandra instead of having to travel over the hill.

Big win

“Our nurses and doctors have access to training and support that smaller hospitals often can’t provide on their own. That’s a big win for patients and staff alike.

“But the truth is, small health services like ours are under continuing and growing pressure.

“Despite the hard work of Alexandra District Health leaders, staff and the Board, it’s getting harder to attract medical staff, keep up with rising costs, and offer the range of services people need as our community gets older and health needs get more complex.

“The simple fact is, we can’t do this on our own anymore. If we stand still, things will only get tougher, and the services we rely on such as urgent care and specialist care might start to slip away.

“That’s why we need to tap into the strength and scale of a bigger health service –so we can keep caring for our communities well into the future.

“A possible voluntary amalgamation means we’d come together by choice, as equals, to strengthen what we have.

Name stays

“Alexandra District Health service would keep its name, its staff, its fundraising.

“Every dollar raised here would stay here and be used to support local care. The health service would still be here for urgent care, acute patients and community health. What would change is our ability to do more.

“This could mean more visiting specialists, enhanced local services such as X-ray, ultrasound and infusion care, expanded hospitalbased treatment, and greater career opportunities for staff. It could also support nurses and allied health professionals to broaden their skills and scope of practice to provide enhanced care.

“Some people have said they’re worried we’ll lose our local voice. I understand that completely.

“The Board and I want to make sure local people continue to have a say in how our services are run.

Local decisions

“We’ve all seen what happens when decisions get made from afar, and that’s not what this is about.

“If a voluntary amalgamation ever did go ahead, there would still be local people leading the health service at the executive level and at the decision-making table.

“The Minister for Health would appoint a new Board for the new entity, and it’s expected that it would draw on the experience and local knowledge from both existing Boards

“Our Community Engagement Committee would also keep playing an active role to make sure community voices continue to guide how services are run.

“It’s about keeping local input strong – not losing it.

“Some in the community have said they value the partnerships we already have with other services and wonder if that could be

enough without voluntary amalgamation. It’s a fair question.

“The truth is, partnerships only get you so far. They rely on goodwill and short-term projects, not long-term certainty.

Accountability

“A voluntary amalgamation could bring stronger accountability and clearer decisionmaking – one structure, one plan, and a shared commitment to our communities.

“It could let us move faster to expand local services like oncology and dialysis, grow our workforce, and make sure we can keep delivering quality care close to home for years to come.

“And then there’s the question about what this means for nearby health services. Each Board has to make the decisions that are right for their own health service or hospital.

“Our job is to plan for the future of Alexandra District Health and the communities it serves.

“Other Boards will make the choices that best suit their own services, just as we’re doing now.

“Whatever the outcome of this voluntary amalgamation exploration process, Alexandra District Health will continue to play an active role in the East Metro and Murrindindi Local Health Service Network

Protection

“At the end of the day, our job as a Board is to protect and enhance our community’s health services.

“Protect the things that make Alexandra District Health special – our people, our culture, and our care.

“Enhance what we can offer through new services, new specialists and better, connected healthcare.

“I know even talking about possible change can feel uncomfortable, and people will have different views – and that’s okay.

“But I do ask that people take the time to learn the facts about what’s really being explored – not proposed.

“Visit connectingcare.net, attend a local Tea Talk, ask questions, and share feedback via email at feedback@connectingcare.net or by completing this short survey.

“This is about protecting quality health care and enhancing it – not losing it.

“Like most of you, I want to know that if my family or neighbours need care, it will be there for them, close to home, delivered by people who know them.

“That’s what this voluntary amalgamation exploration process is about – making sure we can keep that promise for the long haul,” Mr Studley said.

Local Briefs

Cricket record

■ Mirvac teamed with Cricket Victoria and the Melbourne Renegades on Tuesday (Nov. 18) to set a new Guiness World Records title for the largest cricket lesson (single venue), with 1070 participants taking part at Olivine community in Donnybrook

The previous record of 943, set at Lord’s in 2025, was comfortably beaten thanks to the urnout from local families, schools, and cricket lovers.

Children aged 6 to 14 from schools including Hume Anglican Grammar and Donnybrook Primary School joined in, showcasing the strong connections between Olivine, local education, and community sport.

Held at Olivine’s Recreation Reserve, the event celebrated grassroots cricket and the community spirit of one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing areas.

The session is part of an ongoing partnership between Mirvac, Cricket Victoria, and the Melbourne Renegades, focused on school programs, clinics, and inspiring more young people to try cricket.

“We’re thrilled to bring cricket to growing communities like Olivine ,” said Dylan Prescott, General Manager Consumer and Business at Cricket Victoria

He said that as Olivine grows toward an anticipated11,000 residents, events like this help create a vibrant, active place to live.

Water buybacks

■ Nicholls MHR Sam Birrell says the Albanese Government is forging ahead with harmful and unnecessary water buybacks in the Southern Murray-Darling Basin under new Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt.

“We hoped a new Minister would bring change, but Minister Watt is proving he’s just as blind to the damaging consequence of water buybacks as his predecessor Tanya Plibersek,” Mr Birrell said.

“Despite an imminent review of the Basin Plan and negotiation of a new National Water Agreement, Minister Watt has expanded the buyback program in the Southern Basin from 170 gigalitres to 300 GL.

“By the end of next year that water will be gone, regardless of what happens with the review of the Basin Plan and against the wishes of basin communities.”

The 300GL to be purchased forms part of the 450GL of additional water that was only to be recovered under a 2018 agreement with states if there was no negative socioeconomic impact on basin communities., Mr Birrell said.

Water upgrades

■ Yarra Valley Water is building infrastructure to keep pace with Melbourne’s housing demand, with a major project set to service more than 7000 homes in Donnybrook and Kalkallo

The project will improve water reliability for 2800 existing households in Olivine Estate, and provide recycled water, drinking water and sewerage connections for a further 4500 homes planned for the area.

Yarra Valley Water General Manager Asset Services Bridie Fennessy said the project will play an important role in supporting Melbourne’s growing housing needs.

“We’re ensuring essential services keep up with Melbourne’s growth,” Ms Fennessy said.

“This project will give thousands of new and existing households access to reliable and long-term water and sewerage services.

“Where possible, we’re also connecting new developments to recycled water, which helps protect our precious drinking water supplies.”

The project is being delivered within the proposed Cameron Street Road Reserve and includes:

■ 2.2 kilometres of new drinking water mains.

■ 2.2 kilometres of new recycled water mains.

■ 1.2 kilometres of new sewer mains.?

Most of the works will be completed using open-cut digging, however Project Manager Renu Adhikari said tunnelling would be used in some sections.

“We’re using trenchless technology to tunnel beneath the Merri Creek, heritage sites and the rail track. This helps us minimise disturbance to the creek, areas of cultural heritage sensitivity and surrounding environment,” Ms Adhikari said.

Yarra Valley Water expects the works to take about two years to complete.

Remembrance Day in Yea

Death of child

■ Detectives from the Homicide Squad arrested a man and a woman following the death of a Sebastopol child.

A 26-year-old woman and an 18-year-old man were interviewed by detectives on Thursday afternoon (Nov. 20).

The duo has since been released pending further enquiries.

Police have been told the one-year-old boy became unresponsive about 12 Noon on Tuesday, November 4, while at home and was taken to hospital by his mother and her partner.

The child passed away in a Melbourne hospital on November 6.

Exact circumstances leading up to the child’s death are still being determined.

The investigation remains ongoing.

SUNSHINE WEST

Factory blaze

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to reports at 7.19pm Wednesday (Nov. 19) of a large column of smoke issuing from a factory at Boundary Rd in Sunshine West Firefighters arrived to find a large pile of scrap metal in a metal recycling factory well alight.

FRV crews in breathing apparatus attacked the fire with multiple hoselines to knock down the flames.

Once the fire was declared under control at8.15pm, representatives of the recycling company used heavy machinery to pull apart the smouldering metal whilst firefighters continued to cool the pile.

A Community Advice was issued warning the public of large amounts of smoke from the fire.

A total of 31 firefighters attended with five pumpers, two aerial appliances, one rescue unit and two other units.

STATEWIDE

Affirming identity

■ Victoria has become the first state in Australia to make it free for trans and gender diverse people to update their gender on their birth certificate.

Natalie Hutchins, Minister for Government Services Natalie Hutchins, announced updates to the Births,DeathsandMarriages RegistrationAct(Fees)Regulations2019–making it free to update a record of sex on a birth certificate.

Previously, trans Victorians paid $140.40 to be issued a new birth certificate while people born outside Victoria paid $122 for a recognised details certificate. These fees have now been abolished.

In line with existing fee waiver policy, applications to change a name at the same time as a record of sex change will also be free, and certificate postage within Australia will be waived.

“Birth certificates are an important identity document used when enrolling for study, opening bank accounts, applying for a drivers licence or passport, or accessing government services – yet only one third of trans and gender Victorians currently hold identity documents that reflect who they are,” said a State Government representative.

“By making it free, the Government is making sure cost is never a barrier to a person having an identity document that reflects who they are.

“Following changes to the law in 2020, Victorians do not need to undergo surgery to change the sex recorded on their birth certificate.

“The announcement follows Trans Awareness Week and Trans Day of Remembrance, acknowledging the achievements and challenges facing trans and gender diverse Australians.”

BENALLA

Local jobs boost

■ The State Government says that it is creating more local jobs in Benalla with a new hub that will attract advanced manufacturing, logistics, and sustainable industries.

Ros Spence, Minister for Agriculture, announced a $240,000 grant from the Community Development Fund to help Benalla Rural City Council progress the Benalla Future Economy Employment Precinct

The precinct will transform the BenallaYarrawonga Road Industrial Precinct and Enterprise Park into a hub for advanced manufacturing, logistics and sustainable industries.

CIGARETTE BURGLARIES, THEFT: DUO ARRESTED

■ Eastern Region Crime Squad have arrested two boys following a string of burglaries and robberies across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Detectives will allege the pair were involved in five incidents at convenience stores and cigarette stores between November 18-19.

Cigarettes and vapes were most frequently targeted during the incidents across Bayswater, Ashwood, Burwood, Hawthorn and Oakleigh.

Eastern Region Crime Squad detectives attended an address in Burnside Heights on Thursday (Nov. 20) which led to the arrest of an 18-year-old youth.

He was charged with 16 offences:

■ theft x 4

■ attempted burglary (2)

■ criminal damage (2)

■ robbery (3)

■ common law assault (2)

■ recklessly cause injury

■ commit indictable offence whilst on bail

■ contravene a conduct condition of bail

He was remanded to appear at the Melbourne Magistrate’s Court.

Eastern Region Crime Squad detectives attended an address in the Knox area on Friday (Nov. 21) where a 16year-old boy was arrested.

He has been charged with 18 offences:

■ theft (5)

■ attempted burglary (2)

■ criminal damage (2)

■ robbery (3)

■ common law assault (2)

■ recklessly cause injury

■ theft of motor vehicle

■ fail to comply with a direction to assist

■ handle stolen goods

He was in custody and was to appear before a Children’s Court.

It is alleged the pair utilised an Isuzu utility stolen from a Dandenong address on November 13.

The investigation into the incidents remains ongoing.

Across Victoria Across Victoria

MELBOURNE Abuse alleged

■ A Melbourne man, 32, is expected to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Thu., Nov. 27)after the Australian Federal Police charged him with using a carriage service to harass a federal parliamentarian.

An AFP National Security Investigations team began an investigation this month after the parliamentarian’s electoral office reported receiving abusive emails and a phone call.

The man allegedly sent multiple harassing emails before escalating to an abusive phone call, which included hateful and menacing rhetoric.

The man also allegedly defaced a flag at the Parliamentarian’s electoral office.

The AFP executed a search warrant in the Melbourne suburb of Mernda on Friday (Nov. 21) and seized multiple electronic devices and offensive material.

The 32-year-old was charged with one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence.

THOMASTOWN Scrapped plans

■ An alleged burglar at a scrap metal yard has been arrested by quick responding officers in Thomastown

Police were alerted to an alarm at the factory on Aylward Avenue about 12.20am on Friday (Nov. 21).

The Air Wing was overhead while numerous units surrounded the premises looking for the alleged offender.

A man was observed allegedly running around the property before jumping onto a shipping container and onto the roof of the factory.

With nowhere to hide, the man was taken into custody.

He has been charged with burglary and going equipped to steal.

The 40-year-old from Lalor was bailed to appear at Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on January 22.

PORT MELBOURNE Hoons collision

The offence carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.

AFP Acting Assistant Commissioner Matthew Gale said the AFP took all reports regarding the safety and security of Parliamentarians seriously.

“The AFP supports freedom of speech and political expression, but any criminal behaviour, including threats and harassment, will not be tolerated,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Gale said.

“We are putting on notice any individual or group attempting to erode our country’s social fabric by advocating hatred and fear.

“Whether offending occurs online or in-person, the AFP will use its unique capabilities and legislation to collect intelligence and evidence, and prosecute those who seek to harm our community.”

The AFP set up NSI teams in September to target groups and individuals causing high levels of harm to Australia’s social cohesion, including the targeting of federal parliamentarians.

BENDIGO

Contractor named

■ The appointment of a Head Contractor on the $45 million Bendigo Arts Gallery project has been made.

Jaclyn Symes, Minister for Regional Development, announced that Fairbrother Construction has been appointed to lead the redevelopment.

Operating in East Bendigo since 2008, Fairbrother Construction has delivered previous building works at the gallery as well as on major projects in town including the 13,000 square-metre ‘GovHub’ building Galkangu

Approximately 260 jobs are expected to be created during the two-year construction phase of the project that will create a second-floor blockbuster exhibition space, innovative learning centre, theatrette, and Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.

Tthe gallery’s collection of artwork will now be moved into storage ahead of its doors closing to the public on November 30.

The City of Greater Bendigo will deliver a special program of exhibitions and events at other locations while the gallery is closed, keeping residents and visitors connected to Bendigo’s celebrated arts and culture scene.

■ Melbourne Highway Patrol officers are investigating a collision in Port Melbourne

Emergency services were called to reports a Volkswagen Golf and BMW X1 had collided on the West Gate Fwy in bound about 8.40pm on Wednesday (Nov. 19).

It is understood the Volkswagen and several other modified vehicles, including a black BMW 320i and a second Volkswagen Golf, were seen street racing moments before the collision.

The vehicles involved were heavily modified and investigators believe the probationary drivers of these vehicles were driving them in breach of their licence conditions.

The driver and sole occupant of the BMW X1 , a 41-year-old Cairnlea woman, was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Volkswagen Golf, a 20year-old Hoppers Crossing man, was not injured.

Some of the drivers of the other modified vehicles failed to stop at the scene and render assistance.

The investigation into the circumstances of the incident remains ongoing.

NARRE WARREN

Fatal outcome

■ Major Collision Investigation detectives were at the scene of a fatal collision that claimed the life of a pedestrian in Narre Warren

It is understood that a car struck a woman in a carpark on Victor Crescent about 12.30pm on Thursday (Nov. 20).

The woman, believed to be in her 80s, died at the scene.

The driver of the car, a man in his 50s, stopped at the scene and was assisting police with their enquires.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

CITY

Lonsdale St fire

■ Fire Rescue Victoria responded to a building fire in Lonsdale St, Melbourne, shortly before 3am on Thursday (Nov. 20)

Firefighters arrived within five minutes to find heavy smoke issuing from the fourstorey concrete building.

Crews in breathing apparatus entered the building and attacked the fire in the basement housing a bar.

Firefighters searched the structure above, housing some restaurants and office spaces, with no persons found to be inside.

The fire was brought under control at 3.38am, 42 minutes after FRV arrived on scene.

The bar was extensively damaged in the blaze.

Crews were able to stop the fire from spreading to the floors above, but the building was smoke logged.

The response involved five pumpers, one aerial appliance, one rescue unit and two other units.

A total of 29 firefighters were on scene.

The fire was deemed as suspicious and will be investigated by Victoria Police. FRV were to remain on scene for several hours fully extinguishing the fire.

Seniors News Melbourne

Senior Service

Veterans Cricket

and Peter Heywood (Baw Baw).

■ It’s a game where everyone gets a hit, batters must retire at 40 and bouncers are a no-no.

But concessions to age are few in the Veterans Cricket Victoria competition.

Sure, the seniors who pad up every Sunday aren't the young men they once were. But they more than make up for it with enthusiasm and love of the sport.

The competition started with four teams playing in Victoria but now there's over 60 active clubs with probably more than 1200 players over 60 - and growing.

The competition fields teams graded ‘over 40’, ‘over 50’, ‘over 60’ and ‘70-plus’. There isn't an over-80s competition at the moment. but given good health, we expect to see one in about five years’ time.

Cricket is great for seniors because it keeps us off the couch, away from the TV and staying active.

The competition is a mix of players who ceased regular cricket in their thirties and those that have continued the summer ritual throughout their later years, albeit as they slipped down through the grades.

Turning to Veterans Cricket gives a new lease on your cricketing life as you once again are playing against other fellows in the same age profile.

The regular 40-over-a-side competition started in October and runs until March. Matches are played on Sundays, usually from 11am-5pm. It is general practice that there are barbecues and a chat after the game.

A lot of wives/partners come along and watch and participate afterwards. It's a great social outlet for those who still enjoy their cricket.

Players have varying levels of ability, from one long-retired Test player through to fellows who had never played cricket before, but the alternative for them was to play for the local bowls club.

Everyone gets a bat and a bowl - we ensure that each team must use seven bowlers, so everyone gets to compete. The camaraderie and the socialising are an important bonus for all involved.

Boundary cones are set a little closer to the wicket than they used to be in our prime, but here are no other restrictions except our own physical limitations, which means it is rarely seen that batsmen run three.

Run outs are contingent on fielders not fumbling the ball, so tend to be a bit rare and you can't really rely on fieldsmen to take catches. If they do the celebrations are lengthy.

While the players might lack the athletic ability of their salad days, and club matches are mostly light-hearted, there still remains the underlying competitive spirit.

Veterans Cricket Victoria also participates in several National Carnivals each season. These competitions allow players who in earlier times would never have dreamed of representing the ‘Big V’, the chance to live their childhood cricketing fantasy.

If you're interested in wielding the willow again - or even for the first time – contact the VCV Secretary Craig Martyn at secretary@vcv.org.au and you will be put in touch with a local club. Mark McLauchlan

VULNERABLE RETIREES AT RISK

■ A new investigation report by Victorian Ombudsman Marlo Baragwanath – WhenThe RaterRises– investigated how flood planning decisions had affected residents at two housing estates near the Maribyrnong River.

Referred to the Ombudsman by Parliament’s Legislative Council, the investigation focused on two housing estates – Rivervue Retirement Village, which was significantly affected by the 2022 Maribyrnong River flood; and the Kensington Banks residential estate, which modelling has shown is at risk of future flooding.

The investigation found that different issues affected residents in each development.

At Rivervue, the investigation found that Melbourne Water’s rushed and flawed flood modelling, coupled with building plan mistakes, caused the flooding at the site in 2022 and has resulted in vulnerable retirees living in a known flood hazard area.

Avoidable

“These mistakes – made in the early 2000s –were recognisable and avoidable,” said Ms Baragwanath. For Kensington Banks, the investigation found that multiple factors – including climate change impacts, lags in updates to flood modelling and a sinking flood protection levee –appear to be contributing to the development’s new flood risk status, rather than the kind of mistakes that played out at Rivervue

The investigation found that residents could have confidence in the latest Maribyrnong catchment model.

“It’s vital that the community can access accurate, up-to-date information about flood modelling in their area, to inform their decisions,” said Ms Baragwanath

“The experiences of residents at Rivervue and Kensington Banks highlight the need for high-quality flood risk information to be available to the community and incorporated into the planning scheme.”

Compensation

The investigation also involved assessing flood modelling for the Maribyrnong catchment and considering the need for related policy reforms and compensation for affected residents.

“Climate change is an urgent priority, and we need to start preparing for the likely impacts on the places we live, work, study and play,” Ms Baragwanath said.

While most of the report’s 13 recommendations – calling for better flood risk planning, factoring climate change into decisions, and helping the community to make informed decisions – have been accepted, the Victorian Government is yet to accept two important recommendations focused on compensation for flood-affected residents and establishing a resilience program.

“The flooding of Rivervue homes stems from failures by the State. Residents, through no fault of their own, are now left significantly outof-pocket and forced to spend their retirement in a flood-prone area.

“While compensation is not something we recommend lightly, in this case, it is the fair thing to do,” said Ms Baragwanath

“Having set out the evidence, I hope the Victorian Government accepts our recommendations for support for people impacted by flood risks.”

Need for speed

■ Contrary to popular belief that retirees have plenty of time on their hands, new customer survey data from Seniors First reveals that speed to funding is one of the most critical factors for Australians taking out a reverse mortgage.

Senior Moments

Cat-astrophe

■ The Cat Protection Society of Victoria is sounding the alarm this Christmas as the number of surrendered and abandoned cats and kittens soars.

The Greensborough shelter is already at capacity and heading into the busy 'kitten season', where kittens account for more than 40 per cent of CPSV’s annual adoptions.

To meet the spike in fragile, elderly and critically unwell cats needing urgent care, CPSV has launched its Nine Lives Emergency Fund, which covers essential, often life-saving treatment for the most vulnerable arrivals.

On average, it costs over $1000 just to prepare a healthy cat for adoption, but many arrive needing far more, including life-saving surgeries that can reach $7000.

$2.5m penalty

■ NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commissioner Louise Glanville has welcomed a record $2.5 million penalty imposed by the Federal Court against Lifestyle Solutions (Aust) Pty Ltd

The proceeding concerned NDIS participants and support workers suffering physical violence and abuse in a Supported Independent Living accommodation facility located on the central coast of New South Wales

Education Matters

A Journey of Resilience: Celebrating the Braemar College Class of 2025

■ Imagine beginning your high school journey in 2020. You’ve just met new friends, joined your first sports team, and are looking forward to your first camp. Then, halfway around the world, disruption begins, and soon enough, it reaches your doorstep.

For our graduating Class of 2025, the traditional high school experience began under extraordinary circumstances. While some students had already joined Braemar in earlier years, it was in 2020 that this cohort came together to start what should have been a familiar five-year journey of learning, friendship, and growth. Instead, their early high school years were marked by isolation, uncertainty, and the challenge of adapting to a world turned upside down.

Those years, however, also forged something remarkable. They taught this group resilience, empathy, and the ability to adapt to change. They learned to stay connected in new ways, to find motivation within themselves, and to support one another, lessons that no textbook could ever fully teach.

Now, as they approach the final weeks of their Year 12 journey, these young people stand as a testament to strength and optimism. They have grown from quiet determination into confident leaders, ready to step into the broader world beyond Braemar College. Their collective story is one not just of overcoming challenge, but of shaping character and community through adversity.

As a College, we are immensely proud of the Class of 2025, proud of their achievements, their spirit, and the way they have carried themselves through such defining years. They remind us that education is not only about what happens in classrooms, but about how we face the world and rise together.

We wish them every success as they take their next steps beyond Braemar.

In Top Shape

Ambo responses

■ Ambulance Victoria says that it is exceeding its targets for quality and safety.

“Ambulance Victoria monitors how our ambulance services are performing. This includes how fast we respond to emergencies and how our treatments and clinical care helps patients,” said an AV representative.

“We are proud that we provide excellent clinical outcomes for our most time-critical patients. This includes people with serious problems like:

■ Cardiac arrest.

■ Heart attack.

■ Major trauma.

■ Stroke.

“We designate those patients that require urgent paramedic and hospital care as ‘Code 1’, and these patients receive a ‘lights and sirens’ response.

“Code 2 incidents are acute, but not time critical and do not require a lights and sirens response.”

Response time performance has been calculated using data sourced from the Computer Aided Dispatch system used across Victoria

“Ambulance response times are measured from when a Triple Zero (000) call is received until paramedics arrive on scene. Response times can be affected by many factors, including:

■ Traffic.

■ Road and weather conditions.

■ Distance required to travel.

■ Availability of ambulances.

■ Demand for ambulance services.

“When someone calls Triple Zero (000), call takers assess the situation. Ambulances are always sent to the sickest patients first, especially if their condition is life-threatening.”

Ambulance Victoria paramedics say they faced a record-breaking winter with demand for critical emergency care surging as seasonal illness spread throughout the state. AV Executive Director Regional Operations Michael Georgiou said between July and September, demand for ‘lights and sirens’ ambulances across Victoria increased by 2.8 per cent compared with the previous quarter.

In the News

CARDIOVASCULAR OBESITY TIMEBOMB

■ New analysis combining Economist Impact’s Obesity Response Index with global cardiovascular health (heart and arteries) research shows that health systems are missing the early signs of rising heart attack and stroke risk, responsible for one-third of all deaths globally.

“Clinicians are doing everything they can within a system that has not kept pace with modern cardiovascular science,” said Klaus Bartosch, Chairman of CardiAction

He says that while obesity is a clear contributor, it is only one visible part of a much wider problem. The real danger comes from hidden metabolic and inflammatory stress that damages the arteries years before standard tests pick it up.

Obesity rates have more than doubled globally since 1990, and childhood obesity has quadrupled.

But behind these numbers sits a broader issue that affects people of every weight category: rising blood sugar instability, chronic low-grade inflammation, and early stiffening of the arteries.

These changes often progress quietly with no symptoms, and most of them are not detected through traditional GP appointments.

Despite this, the average national response score across 20 assessed countries is only 56 out of 100.

Most strategies remain narrow and reactive.

Australia ranks 10th with a score of 58.8, performing poorly in several upstream areas that directly influence heart and artery health, even though the country has a strong clinical workforce and universal healthcare.

“GPs and cardiologists work tirelessly, yet the screening and prevention frameworks they rely on were designed in a different era, shaped by outdated assumptions and the limited tech-

nology of that time. Modern cardiovascular science makes clear that metabolic dysfunction and chronic inflammation drive early vascular damage long before traditional risk markers change, yet the frontline tools have barely shifted,” Mr Bartosch said.

“Healthcare is still looking in the wrong places, which is why the world’s greatest killer continues to escalate rather than decline.”

Economist Impact’s findings show that the core problem is not clinical effort. It is the combination of outdated policies and entrenched system structures that have not evolved with modern cardiovascular science.

Good Health

Too much, too little

■ Around two-thirds of pregnancies have weight gain that is more or less than recommended and is associated with complications such as preterm birth, large birth weight, and admission to intensive care.

The findings are part of a Monash University-led systematic review of data from 1.6 million women, published by TheBMJ (formerly BritishMedicalJournal).

Gaining too much or too little weight during pregnancy, known as gestational weight gain , represents combined growth of mother and baby, and is associated with increased risks to both mother and child.

Each year 130 million births occur globally in total, in the context of increasingly unhealthy and processed food supply and environmental drivers, causing an epidemic of excess GWG.

First author Dr Rebecca Goldstein, from the Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, said the study’s results underlined the need for international action.

“These findings reinforce the need for international reference standards for healthy GWG alongside lifestyle support and public health measures to improve outcomes for mothers and babies worldwide,” Dr Goldstein said.

Most countries rely on Institute of Medicine GWG guidelines, but these are based on data from predominantly Caucasian women in high income countries in the 1980s, so they don’t reflect ethnically diverse populations across low, middle and highincome settings, or changes in food supply and environment that are driving global trends such as rising weight (BMI).

In response, the World Health Organisation has launched an initiative to develop global healthy GWG standards aimed at defining optimal GWG recommendations across diverse settings.

To support this initiative, Monash University researchers and collaborators from the WHO analysed data from 40 observational studies involving 1.6 million women aged 18 and over from five of the six WHO defined world regions that reported pregnancy outcomes according to BMI and GWG from 2009 to 2024.

Full Glam for $50? Armadale Just Got a Beauty Upgrade Affordable luxury lands on High Street

Melbourne’s beauty scene has welcomed a refreshing new addition with the launch of Beauty_Bar, a concept store delivering premium makeup and skincare services to Armadale - all at surprisingly accessible prices.

Situated on High Street, Beauty_Bar comes from the team behind three well-loved Australian brandsMCoBeauty, Nude by Nature and esmi Skin Minerals.

The store blends professional beauty services with a hands-on retail experience, giving locals a place to learn, experiment and indulge without the usual premium price tag.

Armadale has long been home to boutique salons and prestige beauty destinations, but Beauty_Bar brings something fresh to the mix - luxury that’s fun, welcoming, and accessible.

Services start at $30 for skincare treatments, a makeup application is just $40, and a full glam costs $50, with every service redeemable against product purchases.

“We wanted to make beauty accessible to everyone,” says Alexandra Latimer from the Beauty_Bar team.

“This space is all about discoverytrying products, learning new techniques, and feeling great, whether it’s for a big event or just because. We’re looking forward to connecting with the local community through work-

shops, events, and activations.”

The space itself has quickly become part of the attraction. Designed with bright interiors and an unmistakable pop of pink, the store invites customers to play, test, and explore.

Visitors can book one-hour makeup

lessons, enjoy shade-matching with professional artists, trial bestselling products, and even reserve the “Get Ready With Me” room, designed for friends preparing together for events or nights out.

Early response has been over

Fact File

NAME: NAME: NAME: NAME: Beauty_Bar

ADDRESS: ADDRESS: 1114 High Street, Armadale VIC 3143

PHONE: PHONE: (03) 9311 8000

WEBSITE: WEBSITE: https://beautybar.com.au/ INST A A A GRAM: GRAM: @beauty_bar_official

@beauty_bar_official_ whelmingly positive, with locals sharing glowing reviews and praising the combination of approachable prices and professional results.

Since opening, one visitor even exclaimed, “I’ve never been so happy to live in Melbourne!”

Beauty_Bar service highlights include:

■ Natural Makeup Look - $40

■ Full Glam Makeup - $50

■ Skincare Treatments - from $30

■ One-Hour Makeup Lessons - $45

■ Complimentary express touch-ups & shade matching

■ Group “Get Ready With Me” bookings - $25 per person

Whether you’re after expert guidance, a fast glow-up, or simply a fun beauty moment, Beauty_Bar delivers a fresh, modern approach to beauty - one that invites everyone to take part.

Observer Health

In The Pink Care continues

■ Some of Victoria’s most at-risk patients will continue receiving life-saving general practice care, thanks to a Federal Government rescue plan for Melbourne’s cohealth clinics, according to the Royal Australian College of GPs.

Mark Butler, Federal Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing, said the Federal Government will provide funding to allow cohealth to continue operations until the end of July and allow sufficient time for an independent review to be undertaken for the long-term sustainability for these vital services.

RACGP Victoria Chair Dr Anita Muñoz and Deputy Chair Dr Aadil Aziz have both spoken out about the importance of keeping cohealth open, including at an emergency meeting at Fitzroy Town Hall.

Dr Muñoz said the six-month funding extension will save lives but warned more must been done to ensure patients aren’t left behind.

“We’re not out of the woods yet, but this is a positive step forward and we thank the Federal Government for this investment,” she said.

“The College is more than willing to support cohealth and the Federal Government as they work together to find a long-term solution that gives patients certainty about their care options.

“I thank the Federal Member for Maribyrnong, Jo Briskey, and the Federal Member for Melbourne, Sarah Whitty, for their hard work helping to make this happen,” Dr Munoz said.

In the News

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2025

NEW ADVICE FOR GPs ABOUT BREAST DENSITY

■ Breast Cancer Network Australia welcomes the release of national clinical guidance to support GPs in managing and advising women with high breast density.

This new GP guidance accompanies the national move toward breast density notification, and BCNA strongly supports all BreastScreen programs informing women of their breast density as a minimum standard.

“Women have a right to this information, and [the] guidance provides GPs with clear, evidence-based pathways to support decisionmaking, risk assessment and referral to appropriate imaging where clinically indicated,” said a BCNA representative.

Breast density is one element of breast cancer risk and must be considered alongside family history, genetics, previous breast conditions, lifestyle factors, and overall personal risk. This comprehensive guideline gives GPs the tools they need to confidently assess risk and discuss supplemental screening options with women who may require further imaging.

“We welcome these guidelines which give GPs clear direction on managing breast density and associated risk. We commend BreastScreen Australia for this comprehensive work and for embedding consumer perspectives,” said Vicki Durston, Director, Policy, Advocacy & Support Services, BCNA

The Pulse Mental health prize winners

■ This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Australian Mental Health Prize, a decade of recognising Australians whose leadership, research, and lived experience have transformed how the community understands and responds to mental health.

Since its establishment in 2016 by UNSW Sydney, the Prize has honoured advocates, clinicians, researchers, peer workers and community leaders who have changed lives and shaped national conversation.

This milestone year celebrates trailblazers and a new generation of change-makers.

The winners are Professor Pat Dudgeon, Australia’s first Aboriginal psychologist whose leadership has redefined Indigenous mental health, and Professor Brian Burdekin, a global human-rights pioneer who reframed mental illness as a humanrights issue.

“We celebrate a new generation of change-makers with winners Hugo Toovey and Keith Donnelly, whose lived experience and grassroots innovation are inspiring new approaches to care and connection,” said a Royal Australian College of GPs rep.

Presenting the 2025 awards, Emma McBride MP , Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, said the milestone was a chance to celebrate both the legacy of the Prize and the leadership of this year’s winners:

“The Australian Mental Health Prize shines a light on the people who dedicate their lives to improving mental health in Australia ”

Early eye checks encouraged during Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month

November marks Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, and local eye health professionals are encouraging residents in Melbourne’s inner west who are living with diabetes to have regular eye examinations to reduce the risk of avoidable vision loss.

More than 1.3 million Australians have diabetic conditions, and it is estimated that over 500,000 more may have type 2 diabetes without realising it.

Because diabetic changes in the eye can occur without any early symptoms, many people may not know their vision is at risk until the condition is more advanced.

This issue has particular relevance for residents of Melbourne’s inner west, where diabetes is prevalent across many of our East and Southeast Asian communities.

Health professionals often note that certain demographics have a higher diabetes risk profile.

Principal Optometrist at VISIONPRO Optometrists, Minh Van Tran, said that many patients assume their eyes are healthy because they can still see clearly, which can lead to delays in seeking care.

“Diabetes is very common in our community, especially among older adults, and it can affect the eyes long before any changes to vision are noticed,” Mr Tran said.

“Early detection is the most effec-

● ● Pictured above: Visionpro Optometrists, 1/21 Devonshire Rd, Sunshine. Phone: 9600 1142

● ● ● ● Pictured at right: Min Van Tran, Principal

tive way to prevent avoidable vision loss. Retinal photography and OCT scans allow us to spot changes at the back of the eye early, so patients can be referred for timely care when needed.”

To support earlier detection, VISIONPRO Optometrists has introduced Optical Coherence Tomogra-

phy (OCT) imaging in its newly opened Sunshine clinic.

The non-invasive scan takes a detailed cross-section image of the retina, allowing eye health professionals to identify subtle changes that may not appear in standard examinations.

The process takes only a few minutes and is performed as part of a

Fact File

Name: VISIONPRO OPTOMETRISTS

Address: Address: 1/21 Devonshire Road, Sunshine VIC 3020

Phone: Phone: 03 9600 1142

Website: Website: https:// www.visionpros.com.au/ Email: sunshine@visionpros.com.au

routine eye check.

For people living with diabetes, health guidelines recommend a comprehensive eye examination every year, even when diabetes seems well-managed and vision appears normal.

Mr Tran says that regular screenings play an important role in maintaining independence and quality of life.

“Clear vision allows people to continue driving, working, reading, staying active, and staying connected with family and friends,” he said.

“Checking the eyes regularly is a simple and effective way to protect those activities.”

Residents with diabetes, or those who are unsure whether they may be at risk, are encouraged to speak with their local optometrist or healthcare provider about routine retinal screening.

Latest News

Death at Parwan

■ A man died following a collision in Parwan on Friday morning (Nov. 21).

Police were told that a utility travelling west on Ballan Rd collided with a truck driving in the opposite direction about 6.25am. The driver of the ute and sole occupant died at the scene. The truck driver was uninjured.

Road closures took place on Ballan Rd, near Bacchus Marsh Geelong Rd

An investigation into the collision is ongoing.

Medals stolen

■ Knox Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a burglary in Wantirna South. It is understood that an unknown offender gained access to a residence on Buchan Ct sometime between 3pm on Wednesday, November 5, and 7pm on Thursday, November 6. No one was home at the time.

A number of personal items were stolen, including the Order of Australia medal and the distinctive Tobruk Rats medal, which was awarded in 1941 and is only one of 20 ever made.

Investigators have released sourced images of the medals in the hopes that someone can provide information on their whereabouts.

Charity tin taken

■ Bellarine police have charged a man following the alleged theft of a charity tin at a licensed venue in Leopold on Tuesday, November 11.

It is alleged two men attended the pokies area of the Kensington Rd venue about 3.30pm and allegedly cut the tie of the breast cancer charity tin and removed it.

The tin contained over $150 in charitable donations.

A 22-year-old man has since been charged with theft and bailed to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on December 3. Police continue to investigate and are appealing for the public’s help to identify the second male.

Investigators have released images of a man that may be able to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

DRUGS, CASH SEIZED AFTER POLICE CHASE

■ A man has been charged after an extended follow through Melbourne’s western and inner suburbs.

Brimbank Highway Patrol officers first spotted a Toyota Corolla allegedly travelling at a fast rate of speed on Main Road West in St Albans about 9.50pm on Thursday (Nov. 20).

Police attempted to intercept the vehicle but it is alleged to have evaded officers, continuing onto the Western Fwy and through the suburbs of Ravenhall, Derrimut, West Footscray, then along the West Gate Fwy into the city.

The vehicle is alleged to have continued to drive erratically across the CBD, at one point narrowly avoiding pedestrians and driving contraflow on Russell St, before heading onto CityLink and back out through the suburbs of West Melbourne and Flemington.

Officers deployed stop sticks on Military Rd in Avondale Heights, deflating all four tyres, before the vehicle stopped near the inter-

● ● ● ● Stopsticks were used by Police. File Photo. section of Milleara Rd and Keilor Park Drive in Keilor East

The two alleged occupants hid in nearby bushes but were swiftly arrested.

Police allegedly located more than $7000 cash, methylamphetamine, cocaine and 1,4-butanediol in a bumbag dumped nearby.

A 33-year-old Newport man has been charged with:

■ reckless conduct endanger serious injury

■ dangerous driving while pursued by police

■ Shepparton Divisional Response Unit officers are appealing for public assistance to identify a man following the theft of a vehicle in Shepparton

Police have been told a vehicle with a sleeping child inside was parked in a supermarket car park on Maude St while the victim quickly ran into the store just before 2pm on November 14.

It is believed an unknown male offender then took the opportunity to steal the red Volkswagen and reversed out of the car park.

The offender then realised a baby was in the back seat and removed the baby, placing the child in a box in the car park before driving away.

The victim returned and immediately located the toddler before raising the alarm.

The stolen car was located the following day in the Mooroopna area.

Police have released CCTV and images of a man that may be able to assist with their enquiries.

The offender is described as being aged in his 20s to 30s, with a slim build and 165cm tall.

He was wearing a black cap backwards, navy headphones, a blue Golden State basketball singlet, black shorts, light blue runners and black sweatbands on both wrists.

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

■ fail to stop on police direction

■ exceed speed limit by 45kmh

■ traffick methamphetamine

■ possess methamphetamine

■ traffick cocaine

■ possess cocaine

■ possess 1-4 butanol

He wasr emanded to appear at Sunshine Magistrates’ Court

A 27-year-old Burnside Heights man was interviewed and released pending further enquiries.

Places To Go

Holidays can leave you wrecked Going

What’s On What’s On What’s On What’s On Inside

up

■ As Sydney gears up for the arrival of PrettyWoman: TheMusical, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth invites guests to step into the glamour of the stage and screen with the Pretty Woman Oh-La-La-La Lift experience, running until December 13. Designed to celebrate one of the most iconic moments in romantic film history, this immersive installation reimagines the iconic hotel elevator.

Ski hotel

■ The ‘World’s Best New Ski Hotel’ award is presented to a single hotel selected from among newly opened properties worldwide.

This year, Nikko Style Niseko Hanazono, Japan, was nominated as a finalist alongside four other new hotels from Austria, France, Slovakia and Italy, and was ultimately selected as the winner. Awards are presented across four key categories—Best Ski Resort, Best Ski Hotel, Best Ski Boutique Hotel and Best Ski Chalet.

■ Australians might be clocking up the frequentflyer points - with 23 per cent (5.2 million) planning an overseas trip and 57 per cent (13 million) a domestic holiday in the year ahead - but new research has revealed they’re coming home more exhausted than ever.

A new survey of an independent panel of 1009 Australians commissioned by travel insurance provider Insure&Go found a startling 75 per cent admitted they finish a holiday feeling more tired than when they left.

One in five (21 per cent) confess they always need ‘a break after my break’, while only a quarter (24 per cent) return genuinely refreshed. Sabotaging valuable holiday time at the top of the list is poor sleep from red-eye flights, late nights and lumpy hotel mattresses, tops at 34 per cent.

Closely followed by itinerary overload with 27 per cent admitting they cram so much in that their escape becomes an endurance event.

● ● David Mayo, Director of Insure&Go.

Planning and organisation stress drags another 18 per cent into the fatigue zone, and the stress of work preventing 7 per cent of Aussies ability to switch off.

“We’re seeing travellers treat a seven-day break like a seven-day sprint, long haul flights, packed sightseeing, poor sleep,” says David Mayo, Commercial and Marketing Director of Insure&Go

“Fatigue isn’t just an inconvenience when travelling, it can heighten the risk of illness and accidents. Tired travellers may be more likely to ignore early symptoms of sickness, misplace valuables and make impaired decisions that can quickly derail a trip.”

Gen Z and young millennials are bearing the brunt of the post-trip burnout. A staggering 83 per cent of 18- to 29-year-olds drag themselves home tired with only 17 per cent saying they feel refreshed. One of the biggest culprits is the stress of juggling bookings and logistics

Places To Go

Places To Go

Places To Go

Only one hour’s drive from Hobart, in the Central Highlands of Tasmania, award-winning Curringa Farm is a peaceful escape set on 750 acres of working farmland near Hamilton. Beautifully appointed self-contained cottages offer a comfortable base, with bushland and lake views, thoughtful touches with spa baths and private decks. Booked, daily farm tours offer guests sheep shearing demo, working dogs and sustainable farming practices. Meals available on request. It’s a gentle way to experience rural Tasmania - where the pace slows and the landscape quietly steals the show.

Bush Telegraph

Bushbank top-up

■ Steve Dimopoulos, Environment Minister, has announced a $3 million investment to help meet demand for native woody shrub and tree seeds and seedlings.

The funding is part of the $77 million BushBank program, which will restore important habitat for native wildlife across Victoria and reduce carbon emissions.

Kyneton progress

■ Rock House Farm in Kyneton has commenced planting its timber plantation –made possible by a $94,350 investment through the Victorian Carbon Farming Program Phase one of the planting has been completed, representing 10 per cent of the total area that will be planted next year.

The program supports farmers to diversify income streams by growing trees for multiple purposes including shade and shelter, erosion control, timber production and the option to offset on-farm emissions.

CSIRO job cuts

■ Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation Chief Executive Doug Hilton told staff last week that up to 350 jobs would be on the chopping block.

“The Environment Research Unit was in the gun and would lose up to 150 researchers, or 20 per cent of its current staffing allocation,” reported Jason Gregory of Stock& Landnewspaper.

■ The Victorian State Government says that it is boosting drought support for farmers and communities.

At the Drought Response Taskforce meeting last Friday (Nov. 21), Agriculture Minister Ros Spence announced an extension of key drought programs, bringing the Government's Drought Support Package to more than $146.5 million.

“Farmers from across the state will have access to a second Farm Advisory Service oneon-one consultation with a technical specialist,” said a Government representative.

“Community wellbeing support will continue with a new round of funding for the Look Over the Farm Gate grants program opening in February 2026, administered by the National Centre for Farmer Health

“Across Victoria, more than 100 Look Over the Farm Gate events have brought communities together, engaging around 13,000 people.

“Work will also soon begin on a major pipeline expansion, to secure water access for approximately 200 rural properties and 10 towns in the Ararat, Northern Grampians and the Pyrenees local government areas.”

The Victorian Farmers Federation will receive $677,000 over two years.

Whiparound Bushfire ready

■ RACV is encouraging Victorians to ready their homes and review their insurance as the state enters what is predicted to be an extreme summer bushfire season.

RACV General Manager Insurance and Roadside, Bill Bloodworth said it’s crucial Victorians have a plan and stay informed to ensure they are best prepared for the peak fire period.

“The state could be facing an increased bushfire risk this summer and RACV is urging Victorians living in high-risk areas to take action now to prepare their household and property,” Mr Bloodworth said.

13 scholarships

■ There will be 13 recipients of the 2025 Young Farmer Upskill and Invest Scholarship, with each receiving up to $10,000 to boost their careers – $5\000 for new learning opportunities and another $5000 to put their new skills into practice.

Highs for beef

■ Australia’s cattle industry continues to set new benchmarks, with the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures confirming record beef production for the September quarter.

At the same time, sheep and lamb slaughter has eased significantly following last year’s peak turnoff.

Strong seasonal conditions across northern Australia have underpinned the surge in cattle numbers.

VINTAGE AND CLASSIC MACHINERY, PLANT, HAY EQUIP, SUNDRY ITEMS, TRACTORS, TRUCKS AND ROLLS ROYCE VEHICLE

Vintage & Classic Vehicle and parts: *1980 Rolls Royce sedan, Royal Blue, Silver Shadow, 136,000kms, unregistered, detailed, some minor paint and slight rear panel damage, runs & drives well. *1923 Leyland CUB chassis with engine and worm drive diffs. *Quantity of new/used early model generators & starter motors for Valiant, Ford and holden. *Classic gauges and head lights

Vintage Engine: *Fuller & Johnson 1923 Stationery engine (incomplete). *A.H McDonald Imperial Super diesel stationery engine. Vintage Road Roller & CAT Traxcavator: *1947 A.H McDonald flat roller, cartridge start,19tn#. *1957 CAT 25A 933 Traxcavator#. *1954 Galion Road grader, 401 Leyland engine, 120Hp, new fuel pump, 12ft blade, good tyres in good working condition. Antique Horse buggy & Pump: *1909 restored buggy. *Radford & Co Antique Hand operated Well Pump. Generator: *80KVA CAT 3114 generator, r unning, solar for battery charge, 3 phase. Hay & Spreaders: *Vicon RV2160 baler, 26000bales, rotary feed. *Claas 12ft mower, reconditioned. *2tn Super spreader. *Silvan 8 Wheel Hay rake. *Vintage chicken manure spreader. *Single axle 4-ton trailer.

Equip: *Freshca 12” post hole Auger. *Stihl TS 800 petrol concrete cutter. *Kew 4203VA Hot/cold water electric pressure cleaner. *WEG 3 phase electric motor working. *Crompton Greaves 3 phase electric motor working. * Electric 3 phase motor working. *Robin FY40D generator. *H/D electric cable winder. *Roston Hornsby 35RB drag bucket.

Trucks, Diffs & engines: *Rockwell Reco Diffs, front and back ratio 7:37 to suit Atkinson truck. *Leyland supper hippo rear end and diffs. *Leyland 401 Super Six, single drive, 6spd splitter, w/- stock crate, running. *Leyland 401 Super six boggy drive, 11spd w/- splitter, running. *Atkinson prime mover, boggy drive,150 Gardner engine, 10spd r/ranger w/- 2 spare cabins.

*Gardner diesel, 4LW truck engine.

Tractors: *Fordson Super major, new starter, remotes, pto, 3p/l, R.O.P.S, good tyres & running. *Chamberlain 4080 cab tractor, 4986hrs, new clutch, new hyd pump, pto, 3p/l, remotes, good tyres, comes mud guard & good runner. * 1937 Fordson N1, reco mag, high spd 3rd gear#. *DB 885, ROPS, front end loader & bucket & hay forks, pto, 3p/l good tyres & running. *Nuffield Universal, with slasher#.

Sundry items: *Plastic sheet Gyprock lifter. *Oregon beams, 4x 4.8mx300x80. *1x 2.7mx300x80. * Qnty Red Gum natural tree aged. Qnty of new starter motors to suit early Holden & Fords. *Lucas Mill with petrol engine. *20ft shipping container. *4x 14.5m concrete power poles. *15x 13.5m concrete power poles. *2x 1.5tn demolition balls.

Places To Go

Places To Go

Places To Go Briefs

Hawke House at Bordertown

■ Travellers can stay in the Bordertown house in which Australian Prime Minister was raised.

Bob Hawke was born in Bordertown in 1929 and lived in this house until his family relocated in 1935.

Since the Hawke family’s departure, the house has had many uses. It was eventually purchased by the Tatiara District Council in 2021 through an initiative and support from the Commonwealth Government

Following significant conservation works, the house has been set up as short stay accommodation, providing opportunity for visitors to engage with the environment of Bob Hawke’s formative years.

Throughout the house travellers will find a number of clues about the significance of the place. These appear in the form of photographs, trophies, books, croquet and cricket sets, and stories revealed within the tears of the wallpaper around each chimney breast.

The layout of the house now mirrors family life, with individual rooms dedicated to reflect a person or a particular aspect of Bob Hawke’s achievements.

Mulloway Studio received the South Australian Architecture Award for Heritage for the Hawke House project.

Hawke House

63 Farquhar St (corner of Binnie St) Bordertown, South Australia

Phone: (08) 8752 1752

Email: info@bordertowncaravanpark.com.au

Bound for South Australia

■ One of the top attractions in the Flinders Ranges (South Australia) is the volunteer-run Pichi Richi Railway based at Quorn. It runs on selected days between March and November.

Passengers can watch gumlined creeks, bluebush-studded hills and ancient rocky outcrops roll past at the relaxed pace of years gone by.

All trains use historic steam or diesel locomotives or railcars or immaculately restored timber carriages some more than 130 years old.

Since 1973, volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society continue to proudly restore and run the railway.

Travellers can enjoy a fullday or half-day trip aboard a restored steam or heritage diesel train on the original Ghan route between Port Augusta and Quorn on the Pichi Richi Railway In 1878, construction commenced on the Port Augusta and Government Gums Railway. (Government Gums is now known as Farina, which is north of the Flinders

Ranges). The PortAugusta andGovernmentGumsRailwayActof 1876 stipulated that the gauge of the railway "shall be 3 feet 6 inches" (1067mm) with iron rails "not less than 40 pounds to the yard."

The railway reached Quorn on December 15, 1879, and Farina in 1882. The line was extended to Oodnadatta in 1891 and further to Alice Springs (771 miles or 1241 km) in 1929, as the Central Australia line.

Briefs

Country mile from reality

■ The Limestone Coast is described as “west of Melbourne, south of Adelaide, and a country mile from reality”.

For generations, travellers have explored the underworld of chasms and caves, trekked dormant volcanoes, feasted on home-grown delights and soaked in the aquamarine dream coastline.

For at least 30,000 years, the Limestone Coast has been home to the Boandik, Bindjali and Ngarrindjeri people.

Local communities are committed to commemorating and honouring their culture and traditions through the towns, National Parks and Forestry Reserves by sharing their stories through interpretive signage and exhibitions.

For a truly immersive First Nations experience, jump on a tour with Boandik Elder, Uncle Ken Jones, on a cultural and foraging journey to identify, touch and taste some of our finest bush foods along the incredible Port MacDonnell coastline.

With endless stories and history to share, from the rich pioneering, geological, agricultural heritage to our famous forestry and maritime history, communities across the region have painstakingly curated their stories and artefacts into fascinating exhibits in museums throughout the region.

Some of the key museums not to miss across the region include Port MacDonnell Maritime Museum, Sheep's Back Museum, Millicent National Trust Museum, Beachport and Old Wool and Grain Store National Trust Museum.

■ Charlie Cruden has built a quite incredible collection over his lifetime ... and it is all being offered for purchase at a clearing sale, with viewing days to be held at Castella (near Yarra Glen)on Saturday-Sunday, December 13-14.

One of the lots amongst all the vintage machinery is a 1980 royal blue Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow with 136,000kms on the clock. There is a 1923 Leyland CUB chassis with engine and worm drive diffs. plus a quantity of new/used early model generators and starter motors for Valiant, Ford and Holden

Part of the the offering is a Fuller and Johnson 1923 stationery engine (incomplete), and an A.H McDonald Imperial Super diesel stationery engine.

There is a 1909 restored buggy, a Radford & Co antique hand-operated well pump, as well as dozens of other items.

Marty Deacon from Elders Real Estate, Mildura, is in charge of arrangements. Auctions Plus will conduct the sale from December 15-17.

■ An advertisement for the Clearing Sale appears in the Victorian Rural News section in the centre pages of this newspaper.

Sam’s network

■ In addition to his Front Bar duties on Channel 7, and his own tonight show on Network 10, Sam Pang has earned an extra gig for 2026: he will star in new comedy GroundUpas Hugh Shen, an AFL administrator sent from Melbourne to Tasmania to create a new club.

ABC-TV boss Hugh Marks held a launch late last week to announce programming for 2026: it will include performers including Shaun Micallef, Kitty Flanagan and Julia Morris.

ABC Chairman Kim Williams was in attendance to hear that other shows will be presented by Anne Edmonds, Marc Fennell, Urzila Carlson, Alex Lee, John Safran, Todd Sampson, Tony Armstrong and Zan Rowe

People in news

■ Early in TheObserver’scareer, a mentor Don Brown used to speak of a Dandenong Journalyoung reporter Niki Savva, who went on to TheAustraliannewspaper, and then became well known for his reporting of Canberra politics. Niki put in an impressive performance with David Spears ofThe Insiders this month, recalling the Dismissal events of November 11, 1975.

■ Xander McGuire, son of Eddie and Carla McGuire, will try out his radio talents on the summer Triple M Melbourne breakfast team.

■ A media saying is ‘never go on holidays, your job might not be here when you return’. Perhaps that rule doesn’t apply so much at the ABC? Radio Melbourne breakfast show co-host Sharnelle Vella will discover the answer next year as she will be on maternity leave, expecting a happy event in March, after many fertility challenges. The ABC will soon announce a ‘temporary cohost’ for Bob Murphy

A good word for ...

■ Lachy Hulme has been cast to bring Charles Dickens’ characters to life in A Christmas Carol at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre. Other cast members include Emily Robinson, Andrew Coshan, Tony Cobin, Jonathon Gardner, Stephanie Lambourn, Kaori Maeda-Judge and Samantha Morley.

GRANDMA TWIRLY KEEPS KIDS SAFE

■ Carol Fallon , 72, has written her first children’s picture story book AtthePark withGrandmaTwirly and Grandpa Pop, which addresses safety in the playground with grandparents.

“Grandparents these days are increasingly asked to care for their grandchildren,” Ms Fallon said.

“I think my story will help keep children safer in the playground when they understand that, as grandparents grow older ,they may become physically unable to help in some dangerous situations, so co-operation is very important .

“Between 2022 and 2023, 5474 hospitalisations in Australia were for playground equipment related falls. Sadly, there were some deaths.

“I am hoping my book will help reduce these numbers.

“Before I wrote the book I wondered if other grandparents were having the same problem, so I asked and these were the responses:

■ “I’m too old for this caper.”

■ “I’m struggling to get off this seat let alone run around the playground.”

■ “Im totally exhausted and I have only been here 10 minutes.”

■ “Please be careful you are only half mine”

■ “Slow down please! Remember I can’t keep up with you “ Ms Fallon has self published her book. It is not sold commercially.

She is the mother of four grown men and a grandparent of two young children.

“As a primary school teacher, I specialised in Physical Education and was President of the Victorian Primary School Sports Association ,” Ms Fallon said.

“My observations and adventures with my grandchildren are the inspiration for this book.

“Every year children have accidents at the park, some resulting in hospitalisation.”

Cover and text design for the book was by Jess Kelly; illustrations were by Teresa Alberini; and editing was by Sally Cowan Copies of the book can be obtained in hardcover ($29.95) and paperback ($19.95). Orders can be placed at https:// grandmatwirly.com/ buy

The

Report by MP

● ● ● ● Georgie Purcell MLC

■ Northern Victoria MLC Georgie Purcell has reported someone, understood to be a fellow MP. over sexual harassment allegations.

Ms Purcell, of the Animal Justice Party, said the alleged offender made inappropriate sexual advances, including late-night messages, and uninvited visits to her Parliamentary office.

Ms Purcell says that she worked as a stripper previously, but thought she would be safe as an MP

“One thing I have learned is that men will always see us as up for grabs.”

Ms Purcell says that she was ‘slutshamed’ withc comments like “What did she expect? Look at how she dresses.”

Nationals MLC Emma Kealy told parliament about how she had been stalked. Natalie hutchins told of being groped.

Ms Purcell is expecting her first child in July with Federal MHR Josh Burns.

TRIBUTES FOR BEN

■ Hundreds gathered at the Junction Oval, St Kilda, last Thursday (Nov. 20) for a memorial service for teenage cricketer Ben Austin who died after a sporting accident.

With the Ashes now underway, the cricketing theme was to the fore as the 17-year-old was remembered for his football and cricket involvements, especially in the Ferntree Gully, Rowville and Waverley areas.

Mourners were in sports guernseys zand packed grandstands at the oval.

The Year 11 student had his sights set on becoming a physical education teacher and AFL boundary umpire.

“Most people count their years, but you made your years count,” father Jayce Austin said.

“Thanks for choosing mum and me to come on your tour –what a tour it was.

“Great knock, Benny , well played son.”

The event was hosted by Hastings MLA Paul Mercurio and Sandringham MLA Brad Rowswell

“There is so much work to be done in keeping our children safe,” Ms van der Zandt said.

“Sexual violence impacts approximately one in three girls and one in five boys. And the Victorian Law Reform Commission reports that while all other crime is decreasing, sexual assault is the only crime in Australia that is rising year on year.

“We need to talk more about this topic because talking about sexual abuse needs to become normalised. because while it’s not - it makes it very hard for victims to disclose sexual assault - and perpetrators love silence and shame.

“That’s how they hide in plain sight. This is why I advocate and agitate. We must shine a light on this issue and all learn more about how we prevent sexual assault from occurring in the first place,” Ms van der Zandt said.

For Alice Anderson

■ Crowd fundraising is aiming to attract $120,000 for a statue of Alice Anderson, who was a trailblazing mechanic, businesswoman, and the first woman in Australia to run her own garage.

Born in 1897, she challenged the gender norms of the early 20th century by becoming an expert in a male-dominated field.

In 1919, at just 22 years old, Alice established the Alice Anderson Motor Service in Kew

Her business was a comprehensive service for motorists, providing repairs, vehicle sales, and driving lessons. She even employed an all-female team of mechanics and chauffeurs, a revolutionary concept for the time.

The fundraising was officially launched last Sunday (Nov. 23) at the Maling Road Auto Classico event in Canterbury

The campaign aims to create a permanent public tribute to Alice’s legacy of innovation, entrepreneurship and community-building.

Visitors cold meet the team behind the project and learn more about Ms Anderson’s extraordinary story.

There was a book signing with Alice’s biographer, Loretta Smith.

There was a parade of team members dressed as “garage girls”, bringing to life the energy and camaraderie of the original 1920s workshop. The project team is partnering with Boroondara Council

Your Stars

with Kerry Kulkens

Presented by Sarah Kulkens, Australia’s

Trusted Psychic Family

ARIES (March 21 - April 20)

Lucky Colour: Cream

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 9, 12, 23, 36, 34, 45

Love could blossom in unexpected places, and sudden developments might lead to significant changes in your plans. Recognition for your career efforts is likely, but follow up on important details.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 20)

Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky Day: Tuesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 3

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 24, 40, 26, 33

This period promises to be an excellent start for you. Embrace opportunities as they come, but let others handle the organising. Be cautious with financial partnerships and doublecheck all arrangements.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)

Lucky Colour: Yellow

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 9, 6, 5, 3

Lotto Numbers: 9, 15, 26, 35, 36, 3

Promises made now may not be dependable, so ensure you know your goals before starting new ventures. Luck could come unexpectedly and may appear just when you need it most.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 2, 5

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 25, 29, 8, 4

Romance looks bright for singles, while those married may experience family extensions. Bargains abound for those shopping for the home. Take extra care at work, as your concentration may waver.

LEO (July 23 - August 22)

Lucky Colour: Violet

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 5, 2

Lotto Numbers: 4, 7, 12, 26, 35, 36

Plan your finances carefully, and success will follow. Your gift of persuasion could lead to exciting career opportunities. Old contacts may return to offer help or repay favours.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 23)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 3, 6, 9, 5

Lotto Numbers: 9, 5, 12, 24, 45, 40

Avoid overspending on things you don’t truly need. You’re likely to feel generous and in a pleasant mood. In romantic matters, the pace is entirely up to you.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 8, 6, 5, 2

Lotto Numbers: 8, 12, 26, 35, 40, 22

This period may leave you restless, so avoid gossip and unverified rumours. In love, this could be the start of something significant. Career ambitions have no limits if you stay focused.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22)

Lucky Colour: Mauve

Lucky Day: Wednesday

Racing Numbers: 5, 2, 3, 1

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 23, 32, 20, 3

Essential information is beneficial for advancing your career. Opportunities to strengthen romantic bonds are likely, and for some, a particular person from the past may reappear.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 5, 6, 2, 1

Lotto Numbers: 5, 12, 45, 40, 9, 7

This is a time to enjoy life as it comes. Financial surprises could see money flowing in faster than expected. In romance, you might be drawn to something new but uncertain how to let go of the old.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19)

Lucky Colour: Dark Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1, 3, 2, 5

Lotto Numbers: 1, 12, 15, 26, 36, 37

Unexpected changes may throw you off balance, so practice self-control. Avoid overexerting yourself in physical activities, as it could strain your relationships.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Thursday

Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 5, 2

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 35, 5, 1

You may find yourself juggling too many social commitments. It’s wise to decline some invitations to maintain balance. For those with ambitions, this is an excellent time to make strides toward achieving your goals.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20)

Lucky Colour: Red

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 4, 6, 8, 9

Lotto Numbers: 4, 12, 26, 39, 8, 33

Now is the perfect time to seek assistance or support for your career plans. Believing in yourself can yield surprising—and even spectacular—results.

Kerry Kulkens™ Magic Shop 1693 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave, Visit us online at: www.kerrykulkens.com.au

Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and offerings.

LA MAMA THEATRE RETURNS IN 2026

Visa breaches alleged

■ An Eritrea -born man was set to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court last Thursday (Nov. 20) charged with allegedly failing to comply with his visa-mandated conditions.

The Australian Federal Police charged the man, 38, after he was located in Melbourne

It isalleged the man breached one of the conditions of his Commonwealth visa by failing to maintain his electronic monitoring device.

When AFP officers arrested him, they allegedly found him in possession of a flick knife and a driver’s licence in another person’s name.

The man has been charged with:

■ One count of fail to maintain an electronic monitoring device;

■ One count of possess a prohibited weapon; and

■ One count of handling stolen goods.

Bound for Victoria

■ The AFP’s international network has helped prevent 45kg of methamphetamine from reaching Australian streets, following a joint investigation with police in the United Arab Emirates and Malaysia

UAE Post received intelligence from the Dubai Police Anti-Narcotics Unit about a consignment from Afghanistan destined for Victoria

■ Returning in 2026 after lying fallow in 2025, La Mama Theatre’s season next year has an exciting new structure consisting of three themes introduced at the season’s launch by Caitlin Dullard, La Mama’s CEO and Artistic Director.

All three themes seek to embody La Mama’s key principles of community, freedom, pathways and new Australian work.

The first theme, La Mama Presents, sees eight new plays performed from February to May at La Mama HQ and La Mama Courthouse

The second theme, Play , running from June to August, sees the focus on developing new work, on experimentation and pushing the boundaries of theatre.

Finally Partnerships, running from September to December, sees La Mama collaborate with a range of different organisations and events, such as Melbourne Fringe, in order to broaden its engagement with community.

Further details about Play and Partnerships will be forthcoming so the launch focussed primarily on La Mama Presents

There is a diverse range of offerings in the eight plays to be staged at the two venues, each running for three weeks.

In February, Moongazing looks at contemporary sources of emotional and spiritual guidance while Saintstakes a satirical tour of a revolutionary England.

In March, Some Secrets Should Be Kept Secret is a gothic tale of lies and truth telling involving the Stolen Generation while BackToTe Maunga is a Maori dramedy examining male friendship.

In April, SpareAThought ForJanaWendtis a dark comedy taking aim at privilege and

Missing truck

■ A £2,000 truck complete with driver and a load of flour vanished without trace in Melbourne yesterday morning.

status and Head-Thorax-Abdomen, a dark comedy thriller, sees three characters struggle to solve a terrible mystery.

Finally in May, GagReflex has three naive Year 12 girls trying to write erotica to win a manuscript competition and Stuck has two women in a small-town supermarket deli go head-to-toe trying to survive the drudgery.

After a challenging couple of years it looks like La Mama is bouncing back with more than just a spring in its step.

For further information about the 2026 season see: https://lamama.com.au/ Peter Murphy

Device rule

‘broken’

■ A Somalia -born man was due to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court last Tuesday (Nov. 18), charged with allegedly failing to comply with his visa-mandated conditions.

The AFP charged the man, 44, after he was located in Melbourne

It is alleged the man breached one of the conditions of his Commonwealth visa by failing to maintain his Electronic Monitoring Device.

The man was charged with:

■ One count of fail to maintain Electronic Monitoring Device,

■ One count of intentionally damage property belonging to Commonwealth entity, and

■ Four counts of possession of personal property reasonably suspected of being stolen pursuant to section 26 of the Summary OffencesAct1966(Vic)

An intensive search by two squads of detectives and all city and suburban police patrols had failed to solve the mystery disappearance by early this morning.

Thc truck left Mr. H. A. Chalmers' carrying depot, Cowper st., West Melbourne, at 9 a.m.

On board were 40 bags of flour valued at £110 for the Kraft Walker Co., Salmon st.. Port Melbourne

The driver was instructed to call at General Motors, near the Kraft plant, after dropping his load and to take a cargo to Richmond. BUT the truck never arrived at either place.

Possibilities being investigated by police include:

Seizing of the truck by hi-jackers after overpowering the driver.

The driver falling ill or suffering from loss of memory.

Police last night appealed to the public to watch for the truck, No. T.S.342, colored with sycamore duco and red mudguards. Mr. M. A. Chalmers said last night: "The whole thing is extremely mystifying. As soon as we realised something was wrong, I rang Krafts and General Motors, to find the truck had never reached either place.

As soon as Mr. Chalmers reported the triple disappearance, D24 flashed an alert to all police patrols.

North Melbourne and South Melbourne detectives took charge of the search yesterday afternoon.

Fair catch

■ Out over the placid waters of the Werribee snaked a deftly cast fishing line. There was a gentle "plop" as the baited hook hit the water.

On the bank, Mrs. June Davis, of Macpherson st., North Carlton, settled down patiently to await a bite . . . .

A gentle cough from behind her brought her out of her reverie.

"Caught anything?" inquired Fisheries Inspector L. Bracken, kindly.

Mrs. Davis said "No."

But her day was really ruined when Mr. Bracken, asked for her licence to fish.

She hadn't one.

And in Melton court yesterday she was fined £2.

Mrs. Davis was something of a catch for the Fisheries Department

She was the first woman to be caught and convicted for fishing without a licence.

German-Australian Opera Grant Final

(NSW Encouragement Grant), Sophie Blades (NSW Development Grant), Molly Ryan NSW (GAOG Awardee), Ziggy Harris NSW (Encouragement Grant).

■ Overlooking the banks of the Yarra, this year’s German-Australia Opera Grant Final was held in The Edge Auditorium at Federation Square but the eyes of the contestants were firmly set upon the Hessisches Staatstheater in Wiesbaden where the winner would take up a year’s long contract to develop their craft as an opera singer.

Baritones Ziggy Harris and Henry Wright along with sopranos Sophie Blades and Molly Ryan were the finalists. That they have reached this stage speaks to a dedication and application founded on the prospect of realizing an opportunity that will allow them to move their careers forward on the opera stage.

But it is a life fraught with insecurity given the transient nature of the arts and the limited tenure of contracted employment.

A youthful delight and hope was evident in each of the singers as they plied their trade.

Opera singing is a physical art that requires control and discipline all of which is transcended when the voice soars and fills the auditorium.

It was Ryan who ultimately won through, the incremental difference between her and the others was the maturity and sonorous nature of her voice that transported the listener.

It would also be remiss of me not to mention the accompanist, Phillipa Safey. Hers is a supportive collaboration allowing the artist to achieve notoriety whilst remaining in the background herself.

And a word should go out to the Henkell Family Fund sponsorship with patriarch Hans Henkell, a German immigrant, closing the circle that unites European opera with the dreams of aspiring vocalists for, when all is said and done, the Danube and the Yarra inspire common dreams.

Review by David McLean

Rhys and Joel’s Family Christmas

■ Rhys Nicholson and Joel Creasey have reunited to return to Melbourne for a one night variety-style celebration, Rhysand Joel's Family Christmas, at The Capitol, Swanston St., Melbourne on December 6. Their 2023 tour sold out across the country and became a Foxtel/Binge Christmas special. After taking last year off, they’re returning with new stories, surprise celebrity guests and the kind of festive chaos only they can deliver.

The show is described as “the loudest, campest, least family-friendly Christmas show on the calendar ... swapping carols for queens, sharp banter, music and surprise guests”.

Performance Date: Saturday, December 6, 8pm-9.30pm

Venue: The Capitol, 113 Swanston St., Melbourne Bookings: comedyrepublic.com.au/ rhysandjoel/

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

MORNING MELODIES

■ Arts Centre Melbourne has announced the program for Morning Melodies 26

The 2026 season will run from February through to December, and shows will feature Caroline O'Connor, Silvie Paladino, Teddy Tahu Rhodes, Georgia Wilkinson, Denis Walter and Claire Lyon who are among the star-studded line-up set to perform at Hamer Hall as part of the 2026 MorningMelodiesprogram.

Now in its 41st year, the popular daytime concert series continues to bring showstopping performance spanning genres and generations to the stage.

From the music of Broadway, ‘60s and ‘70s pop, joyful swing, opera and contemporary classics along with dance, MorningMelodiesis one hour of joyful, affordable performance.

The 2026 season also features Rhys Tolhurst performing swing classics alongside Nina Ferro,

The 60 Four delivering a Vegas-style concert of 60s and 70s hits, and cabaret performers

Amelia Ryan and Libby O’Donovan paying tribute to the women who redefined Australian music in the swinging 60s.

In addition to established stars, the program shines a spotlight on the future stars of the performing arts with the Australian Ballet School and the Victorian College of the Arts presenting showcases with their brightest students.

“I’m so excited to be part of the Morning Melodiesline-up for 2026 along with so many other wonderful artists. It’s always such a treat to perform before the MorningMelodiesaudiences; they bring such a warm, joyous energy to the magnificent Hamer Hall ," said Silvie Paladino

Tickets and more information are available from artscentremelbourne.com.au

Cheryl Threadgold

Come From Away

● ● Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Georgia Wilkinson will perform in Morning Melodies on November 9 next year. cember 8 at the Fever Exhibition and Experience Centre, Brunswick, 6pm-9pm.

AfterHoursoffers a relaxed experience that blends social connection with exploration. Guests can enjoy a complimentary snack and their choice of a cocktail (with valid 18+ ID), mocktail, or soft drink before venturing into the exhibition to discover crafted environments that honor many of the unforgettable moments from the films that fans and audiences have loved for more than two decades.

Once inside, guests will embark on a personalized journey through innovative, and magical galleries enjoying an up-close look at everything from authentic props to original costumes and much more.

While tailored for adults, the evening retains all the wonder of the behind-the-scenes filmmaking magic, celebrating iconic moments, characters, settings, and creatures. Guests can learn how to brew a potion, cast a spell, pot a mandrake, or even sit down in Hagrid’s oversized armchair or give their Quidditch skills a try.

Whether fans once queued for a midnight book release or are discovering the magic for the first time, After Hours is designed for all grown up fans who deserve a night out.

Exhibition Date: December 8 from 6 pm –9pm (last entry at 8pm)

Danielle

■ Opera Australia’s Carmenis a sultry, sensual and passionate production.

I was both excited and privileged to attend the opening night of Opera Australia's shiny, new, freshly updated production of Bizet's Carmenat the majestic Regent Theatre in Melbourne.

The Regent was the most perfect venue for this sumptuous evening of spectacular singing, clever sets, splendid costuming and stunning lighting design.

Director Anne-Louise Sarks brilliantly brings Carmen 150 years into the future, making her story more relevant to today's post-# MeToo audience.

It was a joy to see so many young, glamorously clad patrons in the foyer appreciating this glorious art form.

Clelia Cafiero's conducting debut is thrilling. From the first moments of the brisk overture, we know we are in for a hell of a ride. The contemporary set designs were delightfully enhanced by clever lighting effects and amazing, colorful costuming.

The production seemed to project a musical Broadway type of familiarity for me, which makes it more accessible to today's audiences. Especially as the dancers were so expertly integrated into the action that it was hard to distinguish them from the chorus.

Highlights for me were Danielle de Niese's (Carmen) seductively enticing Seguidilla and the lively Gypsy Song (Les Tringles desSistres), where she cemented her reputation as an accomplished actress and confident mover.

The enchanting Jennifer Black (Micaela) delivered the illustrious aria, Jedisquerien nem'épouvantein the third act, with fault- less technique and a spine-tingling top 'Á' in the climax.

●

●

●

●

From left: Nick ( Adam Kirk), Diane (Megan Coe), Hannah (Candice O'Brien), Beverly (Marina Martin), Oz (Mathew Arter), Janice (Kathryn Desmier), Claude (Colin Armstrong), Bob (Ongegu Ndubi), Beulah (Jenn Biggs), Bonnie (George Carol), Kevin (Nabs Adnan), and Kevin (Thomas KittThompson). in Come From Away.

Photo: Lucy Mason

■ OSMaD presents the musical Come From Away, with performances from December 413 at the Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Hawthorn.

ComeFromAwaytells the true story of how the town of Gander, in Newfoundland, Canada, became the unexpected host to thousands of stranded passengers on September 11, 2001.

After 38 planes were diverted to Gander’s airstrip, the isolated community welcomed the travelers, overcoming cultural and language barriers with music, open bars, and a sense of global solidarity.

Come From Away is a musical that has played worldwide, sharing the stories of 7,000 passengers cared for by the townspeople of Gander. Director/choreographer is Daragh Wills, Music Director is David Barrell, and Kirsten Manuel is Choreographer/Dialect Coach Performance Season: December 4 - 13 Venue: Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Scotch College, Hawthorn. Tickets: ComeFromAwayMusical.com.au Cheryl Threadgold

Harry Potter

■ HarryPotter:TheExhibitionis inviting its adult fans to experience the world-renowned exhibition in a new way with the launch of After Hours, an exclusive 18+ event on De-

Venue: Fever Exhibition and Experience Centre, Brunswick Tickets are limited. To reserve a spot visit melbourne.harrypotterexhibition.com Cheryl Threadgold

Dvorak release

■ The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Chief Conductor Jaime Martín present the next chapter in their acclaimed Dvorák cycle with the release of Dvorák:SymphoniesNos.2 & 8 — the Orchestra’s fourth album in partnership with LSO Live. This follows the 2024 release of Symphonies Nos. 5 & 6, critically praised for Martín’s fresh and insightful approach to Dvorák’s often-overlooked symphonic works.

Phillip Rhodes (Escamillo) made an impressive, dazzling and dramatic entrance in Act Two with a superb rendition of the Toreador'sSong Abraham Breton (Don Jose) executed his character, moving from a love-sick puppy to a dangerous stalker with finesse and artistry.

The most exhilarating moments by far were both the full chorus ensembles and the excellent children's chorus. You can still catch performances of this extraordinary production up to November 25. Information and Bookings: www.opera.org.au.

Review by Lucy Nicolson

Guewel reviewed by Peter Murphy

■ Seven years in the making, Guewel was a landmark collaboration between Arts House, 13.12 and the National Theatre of Senegal.

The show had a well-deserved standing ovation at its premiere in Melbourne

Non-linear in narrative form, the play consisted of a series of tableaux involving song, dance, music and ritual that together portrayed an ancient African cosmovision of the universe and our place in it.

To explain the title, in Senegal a guewel is a cultural custodian of this worldview, responsible for preserving and communicating it to communities and future generations.

The creation of the show involved practice-based research both here in Australia and in Senegal

Collaboration with artists and elders took place over an extended period. The end result was a work that involved multiple forms of media such as live music, animations and filmed landscapes projected onto a large screen.

This acted as a backdrop to spoken word

and song which was performed in Senegalese; the only English used was in the form of simple written phrases that occasionally appeared on the screen.

The five performers in Guewel - Awa Coulibaly, Aminata Sarr, Abdoul Aziz Ngom, Ndik Sene and Anita Quayle - were all vibrant and spirited. They sang, danced and played music with a joyous fervour but also embraced moments of stillness, often forming expressive, sometimes enigmatic, tableaux vivants.

Guewelwas directed by Lamine Sonko who also composed its music. He showed wonderful skill and artistry in blending the different types of media into a cohesive whole. Eschewing surtitles to translate the spoken Senegalese text was a bold choice that added to rather than detracted from the experience. Credit too to producer Olive Moynihan and her team who did a wonderful job of realising Sonko’s vision. Simple yet complex, particular yet universal.

Venue: Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry St, North Melbourne

Shows

■ The 1812 Theatre: Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica, Until December 6 at The 1812 Theatre, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Chris and Libby Procter. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au 9758 3964.

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Until November 29 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Tim Scott. Bookings: htc.org.au

■ Frankston Theatre Group: The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate’s Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society’s Production of ‘A Christmas Carol: A Comedy (by David McGillivray and Walter Zerlin) Until November 30 at the Mt Eliza Community Hall, 90 –100 Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza. Director: Robert Lister. Bookings: trybooking.com/ events/landing/1374274

■ Synchronicity Performing Arts: A Sherlock Carol – Premiere Production (by Mark Shanahan) Until November 29 at The Engine Room, View St., Bendigo. Bookings: synchronicity.org.au

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Sister Amnesia’s Country Western Nunsense Jamboree (book, lyrics and music by Dan Goggin) Until December 6 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Famous Warrandyte Follies Until December 6 at the Warrandyte Mechanics’ Institute, 180 Yarra St., Warrandyte. Director: Adrian Rice. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/ 1482951

■ Eltham Little Theatre: Whodunnit (by Anthony Shaffer) Until December 6 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Peter T Nathan. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au/

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Significant Other (by Joshua Harmon) Until December 6 at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw Street, Essendon. Director: George Benca. Bookings: essendontheatre company.com.au

■ The Basin Theatre Group: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (by CS Lewis, adapted by Glen Robbins) Until December 7 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Jason Triggs. Bookings: 0494 065 006.

■ OSMaD: Come From Away. December 4 –13 at the Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Scotch College Campus, 1 Morrison St., Hawthorn. Director: Daragh Wills; Music Director: David Barr. Bookings: osmad.com.au

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company Youth: The Tale of Pinocchio (by Ryan Purdey, Erich Fordham) December 5 – 13 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Directed by Ryan Purdey and Sean Tessari. Bookings: htc.org.au

Auditions

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): A Midsummer Night’s Dream (by William Shakespeare) November 26 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman St., Strathmore. Open auditions. Auditionees will be asked to prepare a short Shakespearean monologue. Director: Brian Edmond. For further information/audition bookings, email the director at: bedled@hotmail.co

■ Torquay Theatre Troupe: The Gift (by Joanna Murray Smith) November 29 at 11am; November 30 at 2pm at the Shoestring Playhouse at The MAC, 77 Beach Rd., Torquay. Director: Natasha Boyd. Audition bookings (by appointment only): ttt.org.au/ auditions

■ The 1812 Theatre: The Ladykillers (by Graham Linehan) November 30 at 1pm and December 1 at 7pm at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Susan Rundle. Audition enquiries: Susan Rundle theatre@psrundle.com

■ Essendon Theatre Company: The Rise and Fall of Litte Vsoice (by Jim Cartwright) November 30 at 5.30pm; December 7 at 10am at 9 Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Alexander Gibbs. Audition enquiries: AlexanderGibbs1982@gmail.com or 0410 933 582

■ Encore Theatre: Gas Light (by Patrick Hamilton) December 8 and 10, 7pm – 9pm, at Fleigner Hall, 39 Highland Ave., Oakleigh East. Director: Kym Davies. Audition bookings: Trybooking.

Cheryl Threadgold

Adrift: liberated, not lost

■ The National Institute of Circus Arts (NICA) presents the graduate showcase, titled Adrift. Curated by Tegan Carmichael and devised by NICA’s third-year students, from December 9-13 at the NICA National Circus Centre in Prahran

To be cast adrift is not to be lost, but to be liberated. It is an allegory for the end of one journey and beginning of another.

Before students close the final chapter, pages are turned back to reflect on the path that brought them here.

Of every idea scribbled, workshopped, buried, and dug up again. Each student searched within to find their stories, their quirks, and elements of connection. Now, they approach the threshold and leave behind the relics of student life.

With a clean slate, they'll write a new narrative, and from the student emerges a professional artist bound for new horizons.

The students' final acts feature aerials, trio acrobatics, Chinese pole, roue cyr, hoop diving, hair hang, and more in Adrift

NICA is a proud Arts8 training organisation, supported by the Australian Government through the Office for the Arts

Globally recognised as Australia’s Centre of Excellence in circus studies and the only provider of accredited tertiary circus education in the southern hemisphere, the programs, delivered in partnership with NICA’s educational partner, the Australian College of the Arts (Collarts), are highly sought after both nationally and internationally.

Graduates of NICA have gone on to pursue exciting careers both locally and internationally and have contributed to the development of Australia’s vibrant circus arts industry.

Season: December 10 – 13 (preview 9 December)

Time: 7.30pm evenings and 2 pm matinee

Venue: NICA’s Guang Rong Lu OAM National Circus Centre. 39 – 59 Green St, Prahran

Duration: 2 hours (including 20 min interval)

Tickets: $18 - $40 plus booking fee. Discounts for groups, concession, Mob tix and under 30s.

Seating: General Admission

Bookings: nica.com.au/performs Cheryl Threadgold

Teddy Bear’s Picnic

■ Melbourne Shakespeare Company’s new family musical brings mystery, music and magic to the St Kilda Botanical Gardens with The Teddy Bears' Picnic being presented from December 6-21.

Melbourne families are invited to pack their picnic baskets and enjoy this unique, interactive theatrical adventure designed especially for children aged 3 to 10.

Unlike a traditional theatre show, The TeddyBear’sPicnic unfolds across multiple locations within the St Kilda Botanical Gardens. Led by the larger-than-life Special Agent Honeycomb, the ever-efficient Ms Place, and the quick-thinking Sam, young ‘recruits’ will embark on a top-secret mission to track down Bobby the Bear before the annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic begins.

Along the way, audiences will meet a cast of colourful characters from The Tree of Witlessness (who is nothing like his cousin The Tree of Wisdom) to Sir Nibbles Nuttington a posh squirrel with a sweet tooth as they solve puzzles, sing songs, and follow clues to help save the day.

After the interactive 45-minute adventure, families are welcome to stay and enjoy a Teddy Bear’s picnic in the gardens.

The Teddy Bear’s Picnic continues Melbourne Shakespeare Company’s tradition of creating high-quality, environmentally sustainable family theatre, using sets and costumes made entirely from recycled, reclaimed, and reused materials.

Performance Season: December 6 - 21

(Weekends only)

Times: 9.30am, 10.45am and 12 Noon

Duration: 45 Minutes plus Picnic Time afterwards

Venue: St Kilda Botanical Gardens

Tickets: melbourneshakespeare.com and trybooking.com/events/landing/1485624

Cheryl Threadgold

■ Melbourne’s Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre has unveiled its 2026 season, marking the company’s 25th anniversary with a program

that reflects its 'legacy of risk-taking, excellence and artist-led storytelling.'

Anchored by a landmark revival of Ray Lawler’s TheDollTrilogy, the season also features new international works, and a world premiere as part of Red Stitch’s INK program, which champions original Australian writing.

Red Stitch Artistic Director Ella Caldwell says: “Our 25th anniversary season is a celebration of the core values that have shaped Red Stitch from the very beginning - the intimacy of our space, the strength of our ensemble, and a fierce belief in the power of great writing. As an ensemble company, our focus has always been on the relationship between actors and the playwright's words on the page, and the audience travelling alongside us.

“This program brings together extraordinary international voices, urgent new Australian work, and one of the most significant works in our national canon, TheDollTrilogy, realised as it was meant to be experienced by an ensemble of actors inhabiting the roles across three decades.

“Ray Lawler was a trailblazer, a master of his craft and one of Australia’s most influential artists. While TheDollis widely recognised for its significant contribution to dramatic literature, the full trilogy is rarely staged due to its scale and complexity - but at Red Stitch, we love a challenge.”

Red Stitch’s 2026 season includes:

■ TheDollTrilogyby Ray Lawler (Feb. 21 –Apr. 11

■ AnnaXby Joseph Charlton (May 27 – June 21)

■ FuneralFlowersby Emma Dennis-Edwards (July 29 – August 23)

■ Lukeby Angus Cameron — premiere, INK program (Sept. 16 – Oct. 11)

■ Carbon by Pier Lorenzo Pisano (Nov. 11 –Dec. 6)

Cheryl Threadgold

Phryne Fisher

● ● Kerry Greenwood

■ The literary world in Melbourne and across the world went into collective mourning with the death of the beloved creator of the Phryne Fisher stories, Kerry Greenwood

But even as the multitude of Greenwood fans mourned, they were grateful that Kerry managed to finish one last book before she left them, and her partner, David Greagg, undertook to make sure it was published as a lasting memento of Kerry , who was also a devoted cat lover.

That book is Murder in the Cathedral, and it is now on the bookshelves, much to the delight of the fans.

This 23rd novel in the Phryne Fisher series sees Phryne heading to Bendigo for the consecration of her dear friend Lionel as Bishop.

But as so often happens, when Phryne is around, someone is found dead and Phryne is again on the case. As she investigates, she discovers a cloistered world of veiled intentions, quiet rivalries and secrets buried deep beneath the church’s stone walls.

Kerry’s publisher Annette Barlow has paid tribute to her author as a final thank you for one last book.

“Kerry was erudite, empathetic, funny, a keen observer and politically astute. She imbued Phryne with all of those qualities, and added Phryne’s innate ability to wear couture with ease and grace,” Annette said.

Now that’s a tribute both Phryne Fisher and Kerry Greenwood would have appreciated.

Vale Kerry Greenwood, and wherever you are, may you always have a cat in your lap. MurderintheCathedralis published by Allen and Unwin and available online and in bookstores. Julie Houghton

From Fields of Stone

■ A large crowd comprising family, friends and book lovers attended the launch of Isabel de la Rambelya's historical novel FromFieldsofStoneat the Beaumaris Bowling Club

For the past 20 years, inspired by her mother Olive's stories of family history, Isabel has explored and recorded the life of her great-great grandmother, Nappy King Nappy was one of thousands of women transported to Van Diemen's Land during the Irish Famine, and one of the few to bring a child with them.

Isabel's research included personally visiting Ireland and photographing the book's front cover image in Galway, plus several visits to Tasmania Her research revealed that Nappy worked as a servant in Clifden Castle, Ireland, before her years in Tasmania as convict, settler, landowner, mother, wife, and finally a patient in New Norfolk Insane Asylum.

From Fields of Stone was launched at the event by Melbourne writer, novelist and human rights advocate, Arnold Zable Arnold's message on the back of the book's cover reads: “A monumental work, epic in scope, heartbreaking and inspiring, propelled by a passionate quest to restore a woman's life. Nappy King has been rescued from anonymity, her life honoured, her resourcefulness in the face of injustice meticulously documented and her defiant adventurous spirit celebrated.”

Congratulations to author Isabel de la Rambelya on this splendid outcome after her many years of hard work, determination and passion to publish her great-great grandmother's story.

From Fields of Stone is currently available at Beaumaris Books or online at beaumaris-books.myshopify.com/products/ from-fields-of-stone Cheryl Threadgold

CATO THE WISE

Maxwell Newton

★The Japanese Film Festival is screening restored kami eiga (‘paper films’) from pre-war Japan at 7pm-8.30pm on Thursday (Nov.27) at ACMI, Federation Square, Melbourne.

★The Lorne Pier to Pub and Mountain to Surf, two cornerstone events that showcase the best of Lorne’s coastal community, will be held on the January 9-10 weekend. More than 7000 participants and 20,000 visitors join together for the loved sporting traditions.

★Sullivan+Strumpf is presenting an exhibition of new works from Los-Angeles based Australian artist Polly Borland, opening at their Collingwood gallery, Thursday (Nov. 27) until Saturday, December 20.

★Some 120 riders are reported to have hit the road on Monday (Nov. 24) from Torquay for the fifth annual Tour de Cure Victorian Discovery Tour, raising funds for cancer research. The three-day charity ride is across southern Victoria, delivering grants to local foundations supporting those affected by cancer.

★Yestrday (Tues, Nov. 25) marked 140 years of community nursing in Melbourne. An event was due toi be held at Parliament House, just across the road from the historic Spring St home where the first meeting was held to start home nursing in Australia in 1885.

★Diva, an international exhibition developed by London's Victoria and Albert Museum celebrating some of history's most provocative and powerful divas, goes on display from December 11April 26.

★A number of St Joseph’s Brunswick West male teachers are male, and many of them are growing moustaches this month to raise awareness and funds for Movember. Several female teachers have also committed to walking 60-km in support.

★The Man From Snowy River In Concert returns to Melbourne for a limited encore season. Hamer Hall. May 16.

★Australia’s largest gathering of solo mums will celebrate Christmas on Sunday, December 16. Single mothers now make up more than 12 per cent of Australian families

★Opening Thursday, December 4, Artbank presents And Also, an investigation of performance-based, time-based media from the Artbank collection. Featuring video work by Barbara Cleveland, Amrita Hepi, Laresa Kosloff and Simone Slee alongside an installation by Liv Moriarty.

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Rourke’s Reviews Entertainment

★State Library Victoria has launched the Young Regional Writers’ Program , linking students in non-metro areas with celebrated Australian children’s authors

★ Walk4BrainCancer Melbourne, organised by Cure Brain Cancer Foundation, took place last Sunday (Nov. 23). This event brings together families, survivors, and supporters to raise awareness and funds for brain cancer – Australia’s leading cause of cancer death in children and adults under 40.

★The National Library of Australia is digitising original film script for The Rocky Horror Picture Show and the diaries of Australian producer Jim Sharman.

★The award-winning comedy Bad Shabbos is to be released on December 4, screening at Classic, Lido and Ritz Cinemas

★The National institute of Dramatic Art has announced a new supporting partnership with A ustralians in Film in Los Angeles. The partnership will offer professional development and support for students and alumni looking to explore screen careers in Hollywood and beyond.

★ The University of Melbourne’s Buxton Contemporary has unveiled Hany Armanious: Stone Soup, a major solo exhibition presented in partnership with the Henry Moore Institute, United Kingdom, on show until April 11.

★Retro Australia is a new visual title from New Holland Publishers featuring over 600 r.are images from the 1950s–70s

★Radioinfo and Radiotoday, in partnership with marketing publication Mumbrella , have launched a new awards event for Australia’s Audio Industry. The Australian Audio Awards will include recognition for both radio and podcast talent. This follows the conclusion of the Commercial Radio Awards.

★Port Fairy Folk Festival (Mar. 6-9) has added Fantastic Negrito (USA), Hannah Cohen (USA); Asmâa Hamzaoui and Bnat Timbouktou (MAR); Scottish trailblazers Dallahan ; Catalonia’s exuberant folk collective El Pony Pisador; and Americana icon Jim Lauderdale (USA) to the line-up.

★The National Drama School Actors Ensemble, comprising final year Advanced Diploma students, are presenting their self-devised end-of-year production Golden Soil & Wealth for Toil at Theatreworks Explosive Factory until November 29.

Fashion Festival

■ Thousands of visitors will converge on the city when the Melbourne Fashion Festival celebrates its 30th year in 2026.

Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, welcomed the 2026 program, ringing together fashion, creativity and community for 15 days of live events.

Held from February 14-28 across Melbourne, the Festival includes a world-class Premium Runway Series showcasing leading Australian designers alongside exciting local and emerging talent the second week (February 23-28) at Melbourne Royal Exhibition Building

The festival is rounded out with a city-wide celebration of fashion, shopping events, styling and beauty workshops, industry seminars with leading fashion voices, networking events, fashion installations and exhibitions.

Beginning in 1996, the Festival is now Australia’s largest consumer fashion event, showcasing creative talent and celebrating Australian and Victorian fashion and retail sectors. tou

The Melbourne Fashion Festival takes place alongside a blockbuster calendar of major events, including the 2025 NGV summer exhibition Westwood | Kawakubo, Australian Open, Great Ocean Road Race, Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix and NRL State of Origin

“We are backing the Melbourne Fashion Festival alongside a bumper major events calendar that will bring thousands of visitors into the city, supporting local businesses and jobs,” Mr Dimopoulos said.

Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements said: “Fashion-lovers from near and far are expected to come to Australia’s creative and fashion capital, bringing more visitors into the city and supporting the city’s hotels, bars and restaurants.”

Melbourne Fashion Festival CEO Caroline Ralphsmith said: “The strength, scale and momentum of Melbourne Fashion Festival today is grounded in a remarkable 30-year legacy shaped by the valuable contributions of an iconic collection of Australia’s designers, creatives, industry leaders and partners.

“As Australia’s only true consumer major fashion event, we create a world-class fashion destination that is accessible to all, allowing us to deliver real value, development opportunities and visibility to designers at all levels, securing the Festival’s influence on the Australian fashion industry well into the future.”

Big Summer Read

■ Schoolkids will have the opportunity to swap screens for stories these summer holidays, as part of the fifth annual Big Summer Read.

The statewide reading challenge was launched last week and aims to combat the ‘summer slide’ – a common reduction in reading time and subsequent loss of literacy skills children experience during the long school holidays.

Victorian children under the age of 18 are eligible to register and track their reading progress through the Big Summer Read website, with digital badges and prizes on offer for participants. As part of the program, parents can register and read to children who can’t read independently yet.

Four winners will each take home a Zoos Victoria family membership, one for each age category, and local libraries from across the state will also award locally sourced prizes.

Horse Girl

■ (MA). 103 minutes. Now streaming on Netflix.

Bolstered by a superb central performance, Horse Girl, like DanielIsn’tReal, deals with the issue of mental illness, and while it doesn’t become as wildly fantastical like the latter, this expertly crafted film does present its story in a way that tries to keep the viewer deliberately off-balance the more its main character’s world falls apart.

Alison Brie plays Sarah, a young woman who finds it very hard to relate to, and socialise with, those around her.

Shy and reclusive, she has a workmanlike relationship with her craft store co-worker Joan (Molly Shannon), while her flatmate Nikki (Debby Ryan) wishes she would get out more.

There are signs early on that Sarah may be struggling mentally, a condition that afflicted both her mother and grandmother.

When Nikki invites her boyfriend’s friend Darren (John Reynolds) over, in the hope that something will spark between he and Sarah, it sets off a chain of events which will see Sarah’s view of herself and the world around her alter in unsettling fashion.

Those expecting a traditional, quirky indy comedy will most likely feel cheated and disappointed, especially during the film’s second half, as deadpan giggles turn into something much more distressing, as we see a shy, likeable person mentally collapse before our eyes.

Brie, who also co-wrote the script (and based some of what happens on her own family history of mental illness), is extraordinary, making the heartbreaking changes in Sarah’s mindset utterly convincing.

Encapsulating Sarah’s painful journey is co-writer/director Jeff Baena (LifeAfterBeth,Joshy,The Little Hours), who carefully ensures that her plight maintains a serious emotional core, especially when it makes the rug-pulling switch from comedy to drama.

Baena also effectively uses unusual soundscapes (including its music score), which reminded me of Paul Thomas Anderson’s PunchDrunkLove(2002), while the presentation of Sarah’s disorientating loss of time is reminiscent of Suzuki Matsuo’s under-seen drama Welcome To The Quiet Room(2007).

While it doesn’t reach the heights of Antonio Campos’ outstanding 2016 feature Christine (which contained an incredible, Oscar worthy performance from Rebecca Hall), HorseGirlis affecting viewing, disarming its audience early on with low-key laughs before delivering a number of strategically placed blows, and always

treats its main character with genuine care and respect.

RATING - ****

Daniel Isn’t Real

■ (MA). 96 mins. Available now on DVD.

This moody, beguiling horror/ thriller has unfairly gone under the radar, and deserves a much bigger reception, as it offers viewers an intense, growingly surreal experience that deals with highly relevant subject matter.

The story centres on Luke (Miles Robbins), an extremely introverted young man who has just started college, and everything about the place appears to feel oppressive to him.

Luke uses a short break to visit his mother Claire (Mary Stuart Masterson) , who suffers from schizophrenia, a disorder which has caused longterm family trauma.

The return home triggers childhood flashbacks for Luke, remembering when his mother’s behaviour caused him to create an imaginary friend by the name of Daniel, who eventually coaxed the youngster to try to kill Claire With two fractured minds at play, Claire and Luke trap Daniel inside an oversized dollhouse, with the promise that he will never be let out again.

As we see the grown Luke struggle with his environment, we know that promise will be broken, and when it is, a now adult Daniel (Patrick Schwarzenegger) will take him on a dark, dangerous journey. Brian DeLeeuw, adapting his 2009 novel with director Adam Egypt Mortimer, keeps the screenplay filled with fascinating ideas and themes, showing a mental disintegration through the protagonist’s own eyes, causing reality and personal mindsets to frequently shift and reshape.

Mortimer, who helmed the underrated Some Kind Of Hate (2015), which also dealt with mental illness (albeit in much more brutal fashion), handles both the tricky material and very low budget with confidence and skill, and is able to illicit strong performances from his lead actors, particularly Schwarzenegger (son of Arnold). There are noticeable parallels to films such as FightClub,Jacob’s Ladder, and Real, and the finale makes Luke’s splintered state-ofmind a little too literal, allowing familiar elements to rise to the surface.

However, Daniel Isn’t Real is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, from a film-maker whose career is worth keeping an eye on.

RATING - **** Aaron Rourke

■ Barry Crocker was born in Geelong in 1935. When Barry was in his teens he joined the local musical society and developed a love for showbusiness.

He married in 1955 and started a family. Barry teamed with David Clark in the late 1950s and began his professional singing career.

Crocker & Clark soon got television work, hotel engagements and a tour with Tommy Steele

In 1962 the team broke up and Barry began his solo career. He toured extensively overseas before returning to Australia in 1965.

Channel Ten signed him for his own variety program, TheBarryCrockerShow

In 1969 Barry moved to Channel Nine to host Barry Crocker’s Sound of Music and won a Gold Logie.

His biggest success came in 1972 when he was cast as Barry McKenzie in the feature film TheAdventuresofBarryMcKenziewhich was followed by BarryMcKenzieHoldsHisOwn.

His other films include Muriel’sWedding, Twitchand RazzleDazzle.

In 1973 Barry’s version of SuzieDarlin’went to number one on the hit parade in Australia and Canada

Olivia Newton-John and Pat Carroll did the backup vocals on the recording.

In 1975 Barry was to appear on the Cyclone Tracy – Concert for Darwin Fundraiser at the Sydney Opera House when he was asked by David Frost did he have any thoughts on who should be on the nationally televised program. Barry suggested Don Lane. Don was in America and was flown back to Australia to

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Whatever Happened To ... Barry Crocker

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

perform on the show.

Don sang Troublefrom TheMusicManand that exposure led to TheDonLaneShowwhich ran for eight years on the Nine Network

In 1977 Barry sang the new national anthem AdvanceAustraliaFairfor the VFL Grand Final at the MCG. At that stage hardly anybody knew the words.

Over the years Barry worked in stage productions such as BarryCrocker’sBanjo,EducatingRita,Eurekaand FiddlerontheRoof.

In 1985 Barry recorded the original theme song for the television soap opera Neighbours and his voice was heard in more than 50 countries.

In 2003 Barry released his autobiography TheAdventuresofBarryCrocker.

In 2005 Barry was surprised by Mike Munro

with the words, “Barry Crocker, This is Your Life.”

His latest book, Last of the Entertainers, was published recently.

Barry celebrated his 90th Birthday on November 4.

Have a look at his great website at www.barrycrocker.net

Barry Crocker OAM has been one of the great survivors of Australian showbusiness. Barry is a lovely man. I have met him sev-

Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM

That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon.

www.innerfm.org.au

SOLDIERS OF PARADISE AT NARRE WARREN

Bluey in demand

■ That locally home-grown animated animal Bluey has taken the world by storm and has spawned bookings, some good, some bad through to mid-2027. Bluey makes a cameo appearance in an episode of South Park; it's all about Bluey being involved in a case of AI. Then, come August 2027 a full length Bluey film will be launched worldwide. On the flip side of the Bluey coins is a Sydney man charged with theft of freshly minted coins valued at $600,000. Not a clever move by the Sydney sider as everyone knows a close relative of Bluey works as a sniffer dog in the Police force. Boom, boom.

Polly wants a camera

■ Australian photographer Polly Borland has photographed some very influential people in her time, both in Australia and overseas. Polly was behind the lens for a much acclaimed pic of the late Quee n for her Golden Jubilee, then there was her time at Vogue, not forgetting the nude portrait of Germaine Greer Puffsis the moniker of an exhibition of Polly's work at Sullivan+Strumpf, Melbourne, from November 27 - December 20.

What could be worse?

■ Last issue I reported how Australian-born Johnson Wen rushed pop star Arianda Grande while attending a red carpet affair in Singapore, before the fuzz nicked him. I predicted he would be fined but no the Singaporean police threw him in prison for nine days; what could be worse?

Weather without Livinia

■ After 20 years with the Nine Network, Livinia Nixon has decided to resign as weather reporter on the 6pm News. The ever happy, bubbly mother-of-two has decided to reduce her commitments and devote time to her family, but will remain a member of the crew presenting Getaway and Postcards. Livinia's replacement for the weather spot is yet to be announced.

Fergie’s books pulped

■ The latest children's book by Sarah Ferguson has been removed from British retailers shelves and pulped because of her involvement in the Epstein affair.

Big week for Dolly

■ Acting on medical advice Dolly Parton is taking it easy and unfortunately missed out on personally attending functions held in her honour. Nevertheless Dolly sent a pre-taped video thanking their wishes. Awards were an Honorary Oscar, and an industry gong for Dollywood for being one of the best theme parks in the world.

- John O’Keefe

Soldiers of Paradise

Experience unique photographic works by internationally renowned artist Maria Fernanda Cardoso at Bunjil Place Gallery.

Currently touring Australia, SoldiersofParadisepresents new works from Cardoso’s unimposing photographic series alongside her acclaimed video work OntheOrigins ofArt1-11(2016). Cardoso’s subject is the tiny Australian Maratus spider- measuring less than 5mm in size - and their unique, brightly coloured abdomens which form part of their elaborate mating rituals.

Across a suite of large-scale photographs, an exquisite muticoloured patterns of various species of Maratus are presented as individual portraits.

Each image is comprised of 2000 individual photos, which together reveal the stunning nuances of colour and form in incredible detail.

Exhibition opens November 29 and closes February 22.

★ Wander and Dwell – Joohn Power

A calm immersive, imaging of the systems of the Central Coast beach, estuaries, and hinterland regions that include habitats that support the Paradise spider.

The work responds to the natural topography, where deep time echoes through stratified colours of sandstone, conjuring apparitions which lead the wanderer down among forking oaths.

Through pencilling fern-light, the hinterland rainfall flows into estuarine mangrove stands and across the rippling surface of a lake on its way to the thrumming surf. Fascinated and buffeted by soaring cliffs, the traveller returns to the embrace of ancient casuarinas.

Real-time 3D and data-driven approaches are intermingled with painterly methods to create the virtual light, landscape, and atmosphere.

Exhibition closes in February.

Bunjil Place Gallery 3 Patrick North East Drive Narre Warren

At MAPh

US – Daniel Temesgen

Born in Ethiopia and now living in Australia, Daniel Temesgen creates portraits that are intimate, luminous, and grounded in community. Focusing on friends and peers, he celebrates youth, friendship and the

The Arts

vibrancy of Black life in contemporary Australia, exploring layered identities and cultural richness through a personal lens.

Drawing on the visual language of fashion photography, including composition, light and colour, Temesgen transforms these tools into expressions of tenderness.

His subjects appear in traditional spaces such as cars and shorelines, ordinary yet cinematic, capturing moments of movement, change and self-possession.

Exhibition closes February 22.

MAPh 800 Ferntree Gully Rd. Wheelers Hill

MUMA

Unveils 202 Exhibition program

Australia’s leading university art museum announce sits 2026 exhibition program, a year-long exploration of belief and ways of knowing.

Across four major exhibitions, leading Australian and international artists probe mysticism, ancestral traditions, ritual, mythology, and collective belief systems as vital frameworks for navigating contemporary life.

Opening in February with the major group exhibition Knowing Otherwise, the program continues with the first Australian survey of London -based Indonesian Aotea roan/New Zealander artist Sriwhana Sponga two person exhibition of Filipino – Australian artist Justin Talplacldo Shoulder and Minahasan

Each exhibition offers audiences unique encounters with the unseen, the esoteric and the deeply embodied, while reimaging knowledge, belonging and connection.

Campus

Princes Hwy, East Caulfield - Peter Kemp

Museum’s 30 Years

■ The Jewish Museum of Australia: Gandel Centre of Judaica invites those interested to join in celebrating 30 years in their Alma Rd home.

Since opening our doors in 1995, the Museum has welcomed visitors from across the country and the world to explore the richness and diversity of Australian Jewish life, culture and identity.

“To mark our special milestone, we are excited to host an open day full of free programs and activities on Sunday, November 30,” said a representative.

“Come and celebrate with us throughout the day, with Chanukah-themed kids' storytime with PJ Library, a panel discussion with past and present curators, a guided tour of Tammy Kanat: Circle of Her with curator Esther Gyorki, a live jazz performance by Rita Satch and more.

“Formalities will commence at 3pm featuring reflections on the Museum’s three decades at Alma Road , led by Museum Director and CEO Sidra Moshinsky, with past and current board members sharing their recollections and hopes for our future.”

90 years

■ ABC Gippsland celebrated its 90th birthday with a special outside broadcast featuring school children, cake, former staff, community elders, listeners, the Sale RSL Pipe Band, the Maffra Municipal Band and song from Misty Harlowe Mark DeBono, the voice of ABC Gippsland news for more than two decades, was given a special surprise, with one of the studios named in his honour.

Today’s Menu

Charcuterie Boards:

Tapas Bar Home-Made Desserts

Great Range of Cocktails and Mocktails Available.

Teas and Coffees

Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea

Melbourne Observer Melbourne

Across

1. Difficulty (of assignment)

6. Put oil on

11. Balance out

15. Staff members

20. Scruff (of neck)

21. Rock music style, ... metal

22. Spy, ... Hari

23. See 92ac

25. Favour

26. Scours

27. Gowns

29. Lull

32. Hairless

34. Exclusive English school

36. Recline (3,4)

39. Boot-shaped country

41. Basil sauce for pasta

43. Din

46. Goes by horse

48. Strong point

49. Chief

51. ... & ahs

52. Catalogues

55. Disfigure

56. Captures (criminal)

59. Jemima Goldsmith's ex, ... Khan

61. The A of AM

62. Thaw

63. Sports award

64. Disburdens

67. Windpipe

68. Thorny

70. Japanese religion

71. Barbaric

72. Deep wounds

73. Alleged assassin, Lee Harvey ...

74. Roman garments

75. Glow with (health)

77. Distend

78. Introduction (4-2)

79. Philippines capital

82. Invaded

86. Snooker foul

87. Ali ... & The 40 Thieves

89. Remunerates too little

92 & 23ac. Knuckle of veal stew (4,5)

94. Extreme

96. Scan

98. Animal enclosure

100. Laughing scavenger

101. Company emblem

103. Cogwheel

105. Undersized

106. Cultural symbol

108. Loathsome

111. Furtive glance

112. Moon shape

114. Surround

116. Volcanic flow

119. Early Peruvian

120. Cummerbund

121. Fair-haired lady, ... blonde

123. Imminent

124. Pre-dinner snack, ... d'oeuvre

125. Stripped

126. Strain

127. Bears (costs)

130. Post-graduate business degree (1,1,1)

131. Unrelenting

135. Burglary

138. Short skirt

139. Entertainer, ... Harris

141. Alternate, every ...

144. Unwanted plant

146. Donkey

147. Cure

148. Pole

149. Deciduous trees

150. Or near offer (1,1,1)

151. Jane Austen novel

152. Bomb hole

153. London's ... Park

155. Swirl

157. Small hound

158. ... Eildon

160. Hawaiian greeting

161. Wear away

162. Lifeless

163. Tick over

165. Mediocre (2-3)

166. Massage

167. Play on words

Across Down Down

168. Remove errors from 169. Automobiles

171. Addis ..., Ethiopia

172. WWII German sub (1-4)

175. Yawns

176. Baghdad is there

179. From Sydney or Perth

180. Rope-making fibre

182. Head cook

184. Take no notice of 185. Flesh of fruit

186. Jet-bubble bath

188. Quickly (1,1,1,1)

189. Fulfilled (demand)

190. Source

191. Mother sheep

193. Mentally sound

194. Unhappily

196. Brave man

197. Wild goat

198. Waters (garden)

200. Colleges

205. Much ... About Nothing

207. Arrange in print

210. Tormented by nightmares (3-6)

211. Chattering idly

212. Identical sibling

213. Not stereo

214. Crack army force (1,1,1)

216. Infatuated, ... over heels

218. ... & twos

219. Korean karate, tae ... do

220. Female boarding house proprietor

224. Songwriter

227. The M of YMCA (3'1)

229. Mexican currency

230. Judge

231. Make speech

232. ... & evens

233. Scamps

235. Reception host

237. Pant

239. Actress, ... Russo

241. Inuit canoe

244. Type of marble

246. Elvis Presley's daughter (4,5)

249. Globes

252. Excursions

254. One or the other

256. Latter-day Saint

258. Consolation

259. Inflexible

260. Tomato sauce

263. Possessor

264. Cowardly

265. Liquid units, fluid ...

267. Say from memory

270. Illusion

271. Necessitates

272. Acorn bearer (3,4)

273. Cut of steak

274. Follows orders

277. Wander

279. Native of Aberdeen or Inverness

281. Festivities

284. Fragrant flower

286. Prompted (actor)

288. Was expert (in)

292. You

294. Hereditary unit

295. Nervous

298. Dressmaker

300. Unnourished

301. Valuable possession

303. Assortment

306. Concert venue, ... Square Garden

308. Actress, Miranda ...

309. Overtake

311. Continue doggedly

314. Secret store

315. Blows up

316. Suspect's excuses

317. Native American tent

318. More than half

319. Join register

320. Nevada city

321. Recently married folk

322. Dissertation

323. Moaned wearily

324. Famous (4-5)

1. Cycling's ... de France

2. Cremation vessels

3. Nun's attire

4. Outdo

5. Snooty person

6. Granny Smiths or pippins

7. Dorks

8. Ahead (2,5)

9. Queen's ceremonial chair

10. Outlaw

11. Pearl-bearer

12. Conifer (3,4)

13. Lodge firmly

14. Samples

15. Deserve

16. Artist, ... Picasso

17. Beginning

18. Mediterranean volcano

19. Unwell

24. Salt Lake City state

28. Dublin republic

30. Test

31. Cocktail, ... colada

33. Rosebush pests

35. Hollywood's movie accolades

37. Note well, nota ...

38. Havana is there

40. Tokyo Bay port city

42. Ringworm

44. Available (2,4)

45. Screen legend, ... Loren

47. Islands

48. Brown skin marks

49. Rocket, guided ...

50. Ratty

53. Experienced hand

54. Visual symbolism

57. Moving onwards

58. Sleighs

60. Crazier

63. Perplex

65. 12 o'clock

66. Long narrative

68. Brazilian soccer great

69. Fertile soil

76. Encroachments

79. Inflatable vest, ... west

80. Naked models

81. Ill-gotten cash, filthy ...

83. Savoury jelly

84. Furnishing scheme

85. Alsatian or labrador

88. Booklets

90. Household dirt

91. Competent

93. XVII

95. Pub drinks

97. Schedules

99. Antiquated

100. Detect sound

102. Says yes to 104. Land measures

107. Quoted 109. Alpaca relative 110. On an occasion

111. Twosome

113. Horridly

115. Goaded

117. Throat-clearing noise

118. Grain husks

121. Devotee

122. Stockpiled

127. Wooden peg

128. Small streak

129. Backpackers' accommodation (5,6)

132. Insistently

133. Directed

134. Vestige

135. Strictness 136. Capital of Pakistan

137. Casual (remark)

138. Indian prince 140. Large fruit bat (6,3) 141. Bone specialist

142. Stewardesses

143. Thefts

145. Wear best clothes (5,2)

151. Magic potions

154. First appearance

156. Downward distance

159. Also titled (1,1,1)

164. Meadow (poetic)

169. Manages

170. The Constant Gardener actor, .. Fiennes

173. Expresses sorrow over 174. ... speak louder than words

177. Stands on hind legs

178. Search

181. Overturned

183. Stiffly

187. Study of body tissue

192. Heftier

195. Myths

199. Become rusty

201. Cries like crow

202. Pig noise

203. Devonshire tea cake

204. Holy book

206. Lukewarm

207. Vagrant

208. Cupid

209. Former lovers

213. Move listlessly

215. Pale-looking

217. Study table

221. Bus terminus

222. Sufficient

223. Louts

224. Shakespearean king

225. Horse-taming display

226. Computer input device (1,1-3)

228. Removes surgically

234. Pleasant tasting

236. Meal courses

238. Chopping tool

240. Persona ... grata 242. Worshipping 243. Pilot's emergency aid, ... seat 245. Pest

247. Annoying

248. Influence 250. Bemuse

251. Set free

253. Ireland's ... Fein

255. Promissory notes (1,1,2)

257. Porridge cereal

258. Match before final

261. Comprehend (4,2)

262. Zoom

265. Greatest in age

266. Opted

268. Earth lumps

269. Rowing teams

275. Genuine, ... fide

276. Snow monster

278. Concerning

280. Terminating

282. Long time

283. Termites, white ...

285. Rope tangle

287. Hate

289. Profane oaths

290. Declare to be true

291. High standards

292. Ribbed

293. Leg joint

296. Written composition

297. Trap

299. Merit

302. Steeple top

304. Horrify

305. From Athens

306. Stingy

307. Sketched

308. On Her Majesty's Servic e (1,1,1,1)

310. Pack (cargo)

312. News

313. Sea bird

Cheryl’s Broken

■ Singer songwriter Cheryl Hann-Woodlock has released her new single, Broken. The artist and teacher from Ocean Grove says broken hearts are a part of life and a part of loving. “They’re inevitable, they’re terrible, they don’t discriminate but they are survivable. Our hearts are always on the chopping block when we love and we are powerless to save it from being broken but the journey of love is worth it,” she adds.

Back In My Day

■ Ricki Wood’s new track BackInMyDay is a heartfelt, nostalgic tune that captures the mischief and magic of growing up in small-town Australia. The song blends country-folk storytelling with a dash of humour and heart. It takes listeners back to a simpler time when life was full of discovery, trouble, and good old-fashioned fun, says his media release.

Queenscliff 2025

■ The annual Queenscliff Music Festival kicks off this Friday, November 28, and runs through until Sunday evening. Over 70 acts are scheduled to perform with some of the biggest names in Australian music appearing in the event that’s now in its 28th year. More info at www.qmf.net.au

- Rob Foenander

Melbourne Observer Melbourne Observer

Cruel Intentions: splendid showcase

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company’s production of the American jukebox musical Cruel Intentionsat the Altona City Theatre splendidly showcased the company’s immense, all-round talents.

Interlaced with a musical score of 1990s hits, director Stuart Dodge writes in the program of being delighted that the dialogue has ‘almost word for word copied the movie script’.

The film Cruel Intentions is a modern-day telling of the 1782 French novel Les Liaisons Dangereusesby Pierre Choderlos de Laclos

A show themed with human nature’s nasty side - seduction, betrayal, lust, jealousy, manipulation, revenge and tragic consequences - sounds unsettling - and was, at times.

But the wonderful WMTC cast and crew triumphed to deliver a top show – entertaining without losing the raw emotions, with the intimate scenes skilfully and tastefully presented.

Set in Manhattan, the show tells of Manchester Preparatory School wealthy step-sibling students Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn, betting that Sebastian can seduce the new headmaster’s daughter, Annette.

Meanwhile, Kathryn exacts revenge on naïve student Cecile for ruining her last relationship. But not all goes to plan.

Stuart Dodge’s slick direction and set design ensured impressively smooth set transitions. Musical director Jem Sherwill’s or-

Crossword Solution No 39

chestra was great in rendering the ‘90s tunes. Gabriele Pagano’s choreography (assisted by Mark Spencer) was sharp, innovative, but non-intrusive, performed by polished dancers in the Ensemble. Triple-threat quality performers abounded in the talented cast. India Morris (Kathryn) presented an outstanding performance, conquering a gamut of emotions; equalled by Jordan Poyser as Sebastian.

Isabella Porter was delightful as Annette, Rachel Dwyer (Cecile) was refreshingly natural, and Sam Lyons (Ronald) was terrific. Strong in their roles were Saša Nikolic (Blaine) and Daniel Steer (Greg). Articulate Bianca Mannello entertained as Mrs Caldwell.

Vocal harmonies were beautiful. Daniel Jow’s lighting became part of the storytelling, and Louise Parson’s costumes were era authentic. Excellent program design by Tailem Tynan, and sound by Jake Sipcic.

Congratulations, WMTC. WMTC's May 2026 show is the musical comedy Company wmtc.org.au

Review by

Cheryl Threadgold

Duck Pond

■ The circus extraordinaires of Circatake flight in Duck Pond, arriving at the Princess Theatre this January. Publicists say a sequinned, flipper-wearing duck army, a burlesque black swan and a flock of acrobats make the impossible look easy.

Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Observations with Matt

(Back load Specialist. Conditions apply)

24 HOURS7 DAYS A WEEK

(Scrap bin available)

WEEKEND’S LOCAL CRICKET FINAL SCORES

Premier

■ Men’s Premier Firsts. Roiund 5. OneDay. Carlton 1st XI 7/213 v Melbourne University 1st XI 5/217. Ringwood 1st XI 7/242 v Greenvale Kangaroos 1st XI 10/210. Dandenong 1st XI 10/169 v Casey South Melbourne 1st XI 5/173. Melbourne 1st XI 10/262 v Footscray 1st XI 6/309. Richmond 1st XI 4/206 v Geelong 1st XI 8/203. Fitzroy Doncaster 1st XI 10/144 v St Kilda 1st XI 7/230. Frankston Peninsula 1st XI 10/182 v Prahran 1st XI 8/183. Essendon 1st XI 8/225 v Kingston Hawthorn 1st XI 4/ 227. Camberwell Magpies 1st XI 8/215 v Northcote 1st XI 5/219. Seconds. Melbourne University 2nd XI 7/ 161 v Carlton 2nd XI 10/160. Greenvale Kangaroos 2nd XI 8/219 v Ringwood 2nd XI 2/ 220. Casey South Melbourne 2nd XI 10/240 v Dandenong 2nd XI 5/274. Footscray 2nd XI 5/ 290 v Melbourne 2nd XI 10/236. Geelong 2nd XI 10/116 v Richmond 2nd XI 2/119. St Kilda 2nd XI 9/222 v Fitzroy Doncaster 2nd XI 10/ 174. Prahran 2nd XI 7/308 v Frankston Peninsula 2nd XI 10/180. Kingston Hawthorn 2nd XI 7/266 v Essendon 2nd XI 7/262. Northcote 2nd XI 10/110 v Camberwell Magpies 2nd XI 1/111.

Thirds. Carlton 3rd XI 9/199 v Melbourne University 3rd XI 7/200. Ringwood 3rd XI 2/ 232 v Greenvale Kangaroos 3rd XI 8/231. Dandenong 3rd XI 3/207 v Casey South Melbourne 3rd XI 8/206. Melbourne 3rd XI 3/ 216 v Footscray 3rd XI 5/214. Richmond 3rd XI 8/179 v Geelong 3rd XI 3/221. Fitzroy Doncaster 3rd XI 7/210 v St Kilda 3rd XI 8/ 207. Frankston Peninsula 3rd XI 5/191 v Prahran 3rd XI 7/193. Essendon 3rd XI 9/201 v Kingston Hawthorn 3rd XI 5/202. Camberwell Magpies 3rd XI 7/254 v Northcote 3rd XI 7/ 206.

Fourths. Melbourne University 4th XI v Carlton 4th XI 0/55. Greenvale Kangaroos 4th XI 10/134 v Ringwood 4th XI 10/189. Casey South Melbourne 4th XI 10/147 v Dandenong 4th XI 10/232. Footscray 4th XI 7/239 v Melbourne 4th XI 6/237. Geelong 4th XI 9/ 206 v Richmond 4th XI 9/207. St Kilda 4th XI 8/198 v Fitzroy Doncaster 4th XI 2/199. Prahran 4th XI 10/109 v Frankston Peninsula 4th XI 4/114. Kingston Hawthorn 4th XI v Essendon 4th XI. Northcote 4th XI 8/195 v Camberwell Magpies 4th XI 9/191.

Sub-District

■ East-West 1st XI. Round 6. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 22 and 29. Balwyn 1st XI 10/302 v Werribee 1st XI. Endeavour Hills 1st XI 1/22 v Melton 1st XI 10/282. Noble Park 1st XI 1/ 13 v Mt Waverley 1st XI 10/174. Hoppers Crossing 1st XI 10/345 v Bayswater 1st XI. Spotswood 1st XI 7/374 v Donvale 1st XI. Taylors Lakes 1st XI 10/84 v Croydon 1st XI 7/ 191. Williamstown 1st XI 9/253 v Altona 1st XI. Yarraville 1st XI 1/16 v Box Hill 1st XI 10/ 200. East-West 2nd XI. Werribee 2nd XI 2/34 v Balwyn 2nd XI 10/158. Melton 2nd XI 1/8 v Endeavour Hills 2nd XI 9-d/168. Mt Waverley 2nd XI 1/35 v Noble Park 2nd XI 10/162. Bayswater 2nd XI v Hoppers Crossing 2nd XI 10/260. Donvale 2nd XI v Spotswood 2nd XI 10/241. Croydon 2nd XI 10/258 v Taylors Lakes 2nd XI. Altona 2nd XI v Williamstown 2nd XI 9/ 226. Box Hill 2nd XI 10/173 v Yarraville 2nd XI 2/95.

North-South 1st XI. Coburg 1st XI 10/81 v Malvern 1st XI 4/200. Ivanhoe 1st XI 8-d/ 286 v Moorabbin 1st XI 1/17. Plenty Valley 1st XI 1/31 v Ormond 1st XI 9-d/291. St Bernard's OC 1st XI 8/286 v Oakleigh 1st XI. Strathmore 1st XI v Port Melbourne 1st XI 9/ 309. Brighton 1st XI 6/286 v Preston 1st XI. Caulfield 1st XI v Brunswick 1st XI 8/233. Elsternwick 1st XI 0/29 v Kew 1st XI 10/109. North-South 2nd XI. Moorabbin 2nd XI 8/256 v Ivanhoe 2nd XI. Ormond 2nd XI 10/ 219 v Plenty Valley 2nd XI 1/18. Oakleigh 2nd XI 5/26 v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 10/100. Port Melbourne 2nd XI 10/150 v Strathmore 2nd XI 3/57. Preston 2nd XI 10/191 v Brighton 2nd XI 0/16. Brunswick 2nd XI 2/42 v Caulfield 2nd XI 10/137. Kew 2nd XI 10/173 v Elsternwick 2nd.

Sunday, November 23: Malvern 2nd XI v Coburg 2nd XI.

North-West 3rd XI. Division 2. Moorabbin 2nd XI 8/256 v Ivanhoe 2nd XI. Ormond 2nd XI 10/219 v Plenty Valley 2nd XI 1/18. Oakleigh 2nd XI 5/26 v St Bernard's OC 2nd XI 10/100. Port Melbourne 2nd XI 10/ 150 v Strathmore 2nd XI 3/57. Preston 2nd XI 10/191 v Brighton 2nd XI 0/16. Brunswick 2nd XI 2/42 v Caulfield 2nd XI 10/137. Kew 2nd XI 10/173 v Elsternwick 2nd XIHoppers Crossing 3rd XI 3/69. Taylors Lakes 3rd XI 10/174. Melton 3rd XI v St Bernard's OC 3rd XI 10/ 177. Preston 3rd XI 4/92 v Plenty Valley 3rd XI 10/99. Werribee 3rd XI v Brunswick 3rd XI

North-West 4th XI. Division 1. Taylors Lakes 4th XI 10/49 v Hoppers Crossing 4th XI 5/86. St Bernard's OC 4th XI 10/178 v Melton 4th XI 0/11. Plenty Valley 4th XI 10/210 v Preston 4th XI. Brunswick 4th XI 7-d/282 v Werribee 4th XI 8/77.

North-West 4th XI. Division 2. Kew 4th XI 5/22 v Altona 4th XI 10/203. Coburg 4th XI 10/131 v Ivanhoe 4th XI 3/96. Yarraville 4th XI 10/155 v Spotswood 4th XI 3/63. Strathmore 4th XI 6/89 v Williamstown 4th XI 10/78.

South-East 3rd XI. Division 1. Balwyn 3rd XI 10/77 v Oakleigh 3rd XI 4/60. Croydon 3rd XI 0/26 v Caulfield 3rd XI 10/130. Malvern 3rd XI 10/306 v Mt Waverley 3rd XI. Sunday, November 23: Bayswater 3rd XI v Elsternwick 3rd XI

South-East 3rd XI. Division 2. Balwyn 3rd XI 10/77 v Oakleigh 3rd XI 4/60. Croydon 3rd XI 0/26 v Caulfield 3rd XI 10/130. Malvern 3rd XI 10/306 v Mt Waverley 3rd XI. Bayswater 3rd XI v Elsternwick 3rd XI. Balwyn 3rd XI 10/ 77 v Oakleigh 3rd XI 4/60. Box Hill 3rd XI 10/ 119 v Moorabbin 3rd XI 4/160. Donvale 3rd XI

7-d/346 v Brighton 3rd XI 0/6. Noble Park 3rd XI v Endeavour Hills 3rd XI. Port Melbourne 3rd XI 2/78 v Ormond 3rd XI 10/107.

South-East 4th XI. Division 1. Oakleigh 4th XI 8/300 v Balwyn 4th XI. Caulfield 4th XI 6/266 v Croydon 4th XI. Mt Waverley 4th XI 10/288 v Malvern 4th XI. Elsternwick 4th XI 7/ 181 v Bayswater 4th XI 9/109. South-East 4th XI. Division 2. Moorabbin 4th XI 10/91 v Box Hill 4th XI 3/ 135. Brighton 4th XI 10/367 v Donvale 4th XI Endeavour Hills 4th XI 10/212 v Noble Park 4th XI. Ormond 4th XI 1/7 v Port Melbourne 4th XI 10/282.

Diamond Valley

■ Barclay Shield. Round 7. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 22 and 29. Bundoora United 1st XI v Diamond Creek 1st XI 9/278. Heidelberg 1st XI 10/143 v Epping 1st XI 3/38. Macleod 1st XI v North Eltham Wanderers 1st XI 8/246. Riverside 1st XI 1-d/155 v Rosebank 1st XI 10/78 & 1/19. Rosanna 1st XI 9/246 v Bundoora 1st XI Money Shield. Montmorency 1st XI 0/32 v Eltham 1st XI 3-d/309. Greensborough 1st XI 10/128 v Research Eltham Collegians 1st XI 1/12. Mernda 1st XI 0/4 v Lower Plenty 1st XI 10/195. Bundoora Park 1st XI 6/252 v Plenty 1st XI. Lalor Stars 1st XI v Banyule 1st XI 10/ 148

Mash Shield. Hurstbridge 1st XI 6/266 v Laurimar 1st XI. Mill Park 1st XI 10/178 v Dennis 1st XI 0/76. Lower Eltham 1st XI 10/ 163 v Panton Hill 1st XI 0/23. Thomastown 1st XI 1/28 v South Morang 1st XI 9-d/190. Thomastown United 1st XI 10/223 v Old Ivanhoe Grammarians CC 1st XI 1/7. Keon Park CC 1st XI 0/0 v Rivergum 1st XI 10/181

B-Grade. Banyule 2nd XI v Heidelberg 2nd XI. Diamond Creek 2nd XI v Mernda 2nd XI. Research Eltham Collegians 2nd XI v Riverside 2nd XI. North Eltham Wanderers 2nd XI v Rosanna 2nd XI. Plenty 2nd XI v Montmorency 2nd XI.

C-Grade. Bundoora 2nd XI 7/331 v Greensborough 2nd XI. Eltham 2nd XI 9/303 v Macleod 2nd XI. South Morang 2nd XI 10/139 v Riverside 3rd XI 2/68. Lower Plenty 2nd XI 1/ 50 v Lalor Stars 2nd XI 10/156. Rivergum 2nd XI 9/199 v Bundoora United 2nd XI

D-Grade. North Eltham Wanderers 3rd XI 4/178 v Mill Park 2nd XI 10/82. Laurimar 2nd XI 10/125 v Hurstbridge 2nd XI 6/153. Montmorency 3rd XI 10/198 v Bundoora Park 2nd

XI 2/26. Panton Hill 2nd XI 10/217 v Lower Plenty 3rd XI 1/13

E-Grade. Riverside 4th XI v Thomastown United 2nd XI. Dennis 2nd XI 10/45 & 3/24 v Mernda 3rd XI 4-d/160. Greensborough 3rd XI 0/42 v Thomastown 2nd XI 6/195. South Morang 3rd XI v Banyule 3rd XI 9/160. Bye: Lower Eltham 2nd XI

Eastern

■ Dunstan Shield. One Day. Old Carey 1st XI 6/228 v North Balwyn 1st XI 10/142. Bulleen 1st XI 7/153 v Mont Albert 1st XI 3/155. East Doncaster 1st XI 6/238 v Glen Iris 1st XI 10/ 124. East Malvern Tooronga 1st XI 8/232 v Edinburgh 1st XI 4/236

Wright Shield. Surrey Hills 1st XI 2/175 v Richmond City 1st XI 7/174. Heathmont 1st XI 3/162 v Deepdene Bears 1st XI 8/160. Mulgrave 1st XI 10/145 v Marcellin OC 1st XI 8/173. Ashburton Willows 1st XI 9/137 v Canterbury 1st XI 8/133.

A Turf. Hawthorn Boroondara 1st XI 8/204 v Mazenod OC 1st XI 5/249. Burwood 1st XI 5/ 209 v Boronia 1st XI 9/203. Mont Albert 2nd XI 10/170 v Balwyn Saints 1st XI 4/228. Ashwood 1st XI 5/209 v Old Carey 2nd XI 8/ 208.

B Turf. North Balwyn 2nd XI 8/160 v St. Kevins Old Boys 1st XI 6/159. Deepdene Bears 2nd XI 3/146 v Heathmont 2nd XI 10/142. Richmond Union 1st XI 8/120 v East Doncaster 2nd XI 6/124. Canterbury 2nd XI 10/132 v Bulleen 2nd XI 4/134

C Turf. La Trobe University 1st XI 10/211 v Hawthorn Boroondara 2nd XI 7/256. Boronia 2nd XI 9/108 v Burwood 2nd XI 7/166. Edinburgh 2nd XI 3/221 v East Malvern Tooronga 2nd XI 10/101. Glen Iris 2nd XI 6/ 209 v Mulgrave 2nd XI 8/199.

D Turf. Mazenod OC 2nd XI 10/94 v Ashburton Willows 2nd XI 10/195. Marcellin OC 2nd XI 3/168 v Mont Albert 3rd XI 9/164. Old Carey 3rd XI 9/222 v Ashwood 2nd XI 8/ 222. Richmond City 2nd XI 10/51 v Surrey Hills 2nd XI 8/121

E Turf. Edinburgh 3rd XI 2/85 v Marcellin OC 3rd XI 10/84. Balwyn Saints 2nd XI 6/159 v Heathmont 3rd XI 6/158. East Malvern Tooronga 3rd XI 5/192 v Richmond Union 2nd XI 7/243. Deepdene Bears 3rd XI 10/158 v La Trobe University 2nd XI 8/194. Surrey Hills 3rd XI 8/185 v Hawthorn Boroondara 3rd XI 10/ 148.

F Turf. Hawthorn Boroondara 4th XI v Surrey Hills 4th XI. Richmond City 3rd XI 5/210 v St. Kevins Old Boys 2nd XI 9/187. Heathmont 4th XI 2/101 v East Malvern Tooronga 4th XI 9/100. Bulleen 3rd XI 5/311 v East Doncaster 3rd XI 7/141. Bye: Mont Albert 4th XI MacGibbon Shield. West Ivanhoe United 1st XI 9/229 v STC South Camberwell 1st XI 4/250. Clifton Hill 1st XI 9/131 v Holy Trinity 1st XI 10/130. Glen Waverley 1st XI 7/213 v Deepdene Uniting 1st XI 5/217. Burwood Unt. Canterbury 1st XI 5/223 v Trinity Willison 1st XI 10/208

Burt Shield. North Alphington 1st XI 7/ 152 v Toorak Prahran 1st XI 2/153. Trinity Willison 2nd XI 9/204 v Burwood Unt. Canterbury 2nd XI 10/129. St. Paul's Oakleigh District 1st XI 3/167 v Glen Waverley 2nd XI 10/ 165. Holy Trinity 2nd XI 6/229 v Clifton Hill 2nd XI 10/221.

Morn. Peninsula

■ Provincial Firsts. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 22 and 29. Heatherhill 1sts v Mornington 1sts 7/250. Sorrento 1sts 1/56 v Dromana 1sts 10/208. Red Hill 1sts v Pines 1sts 6/347. Baden Powell 1sts 10/184 v Langwarrin 1sts 4/17. Peninsula Firsts. Seaford CC 1sts 10/169 v Old Peninsula 1sts 3/29. Rosebud 1sts 5/14 v Balnarring 1sts 9/135. Moorooduc 1sts 10/ 142 v Somerville 1sts 5/79. Mt Eliza 1sts 10/ 157 v Long Island 1sts 2/31

District Firsts. Carrum CC 1sts 10/142 v Rye 1sts 3/42. Boneo 1sts 7/316 v Crib Point 1sts. Flinders 1sts 0/4 v Seaford Tigers 1sts 5-d/303. Main Ridge 1sts 1/33 v Carrum Downs 1sts 10/218.

Sub-District Firsts. Tootgarook 1sts v Tyabb 1sts. Pearcedale 1sts 10/46 & 4/47 v Frankston YCW 1st 3-d/164. Mt Martha 1sts 3/51 v Skye 1sts 10/191. Baxter 1sts 8/279 v Delacombe Park 1sts. Bye: Ballam Park 1sts

North Metro

■ Jika Shield. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 15 and 22. Preston Baseballers CC 1st XI 5/310 v Olympic Colts CC 1st XI 7/306. Camrea Stingrays CC 1st XI 10/64 v Northern Socials CC 1st XI 10/157. Donath CC 1st XI 10/113 v Fiji Victorian CC 1st XI 10/170 Jack Quick Shield. Fiji Victorian CC 2nd XI 10/141 v Strathewen Cougars CC 1stXI 10/ 102. Bellfield Bulls CC 1st XI 10/218 v Reservoir Cobras CC 1st XI 10/180. West Preston CC 1st XI 0/0v Cameron CC 1st XI 7/282

Jack Kelly Shield. Royal Park Reds 3rd XI 8/149 v Preston YCW District 1st XI 10/146. Ivanhoe Mavericks CC 1st XI 9/117 v West Preston CC 2nd XI 10/115. Fairfield CC 1st XI 10/172 v Preston Baseballers CC 2nd XI 10/ 200

B-Grade. Wollert Rhinos CC 1st XI 7-d/282 v Bellfield Bulls CC 2nd XI 9/124. West Preston CC 3rd XI 2/200 v Fairfield CC 2nd XI 10/95. Northern Socials CC 2s XI 10/90 & 3/148 v Fiji Victorian CC 3rd XI 8-d/206

C-Grade. Fiji Victorian CC 4th XI 10/170 v Bellfield Bulls CC 3rd XI 8/171. Olympic Colts CC 2nd XI Forfeit v Preston Baseballers CC 3rd XI. Reservoir Cobras CC 2nd XI 9/94 v Camrea Stingrays CC 2nd XI 9/211. Bellfield Bulls CC 4th XI 10/143 v Royal Park Reds 4th XI 9-d/ 220. Robert Young DODC. Camrea Stingrays CC OD 2/184 v Donath CC OD 0/187. Preston YCW District OD 4/144 v Kinglake CC OD 9/ 135. Bye: Cameron CC OD

Ringwood District

■ Lindsay Trollope Shield. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 15 and 22. St Andrews 1XI 10/190 v Ainslie Park 1XI 10/239. Croydon Ranges 1XI 10/144 v Norwood 1XI 5/270. North Ringwood 1XI 10/258 v Lilydale 1XI 10/219. Montrose 1XI 7/252 v South Croydon 1XI 10/83 & 2/58. Bill Wilkins Cup. Kilsyth 1XI 9/194 v Warranwood 1XI 10/193. Vermont 1XI 10/169 v Wonga Park 1XI 8/316. Mt Evelyn 1XI 10/ 361 v East Ringwood 1XI 6-d/367. Bayswater Park 1XI 4/128 v Heatherdale 1XI 10/126. Mooroolbark 1XI 6-d/169 v Wantirna South 1XI 10/57 & 10/91 Stuart Newey Plate. Healesville 1XI 9/ 241 v South Warrandyte 1XI 10/165. Warrandyte 1XI 10/250 v Templeton 1XI 10/ 190. Heathwood 1XI 10/99. Seville Burras 1XI 7/290. Yarra Junction 1XI 10/174 v Chirnside Park 1XI 10/241.

South-East

■ Longmuir Shield. Bentleigh ANA 1 10/ 213 v Washington Park 1. Bentleigh Uniting 1 0/10 v East Sandringham 1 10/153. Kingston Heath 1 10/123 v Le Page Park 1 0/79. Brighton Union 1 7/283 v West Bentleigh 1.

■ Woolnough Shield. Omega 1 10/261 v Hampton Central 1 0/8. Cheltenham Park 1 0/ 6 v Mackie 1 10/261. Carnegie South 1 9/ 226 v Cluden 1. CHAG 1 v Elwood 1 7/362.

■ Quiney Shield. East Sandringham 2 10/ 120 v Bentleigh Uniting 2 3/81. Washington Park 2 9/168 v Omega 2. CUCC Kings 3 1/10 v Hampton United 1 10/194. Le Page Park 2 10/227 v Highett West 1

■ Pullen Shield. Mackie 2 8/401 v Diamond 1. Melbourne Wanderers 1 1/2 v East Bentleigh Central 1 10/236. Elwood 2 1/25 v Brighton Union 2 10/161. Cluden 2 v Kingston Heath 2 10/256.

Western

■ A-Grade. Two Days. Sats., Nov. 22 and 29. Williams Landing SC 1st XI 9/361 v Tarneit Central 4th XI. Altona Sports 1st XI 10/154 v West Point Titans 2nd XI 4/62. Manor Lakes 2nd XI 0/13 v Truganina Strikers CC Yellow 1st XI 10/193

■ B-Grade. Western Lions Gryphons 1st XI v Point Cook Centrals 3rd XI 9/193. Point Cook 5th XI 9/126 v Altona Sports 2nd XI 0/113. Glen Orden Thunder 6th XI 10/218 v Vic Bangladeshi SC 2nd XI. AA Tarneit 1st XI 5/65 v Wyndham Vale 3rd XI 10/165.

NO WONDER TURNOVER IS DOWN Harness Racing

■ COMMENT: It is no wonder that turnover on harness racing is down considering the deplorable cover given by Sky Channel in recent times with many races shafted to Sky 2 despite the due races running late.

Plus the mind boggling protest decisions in the last week starting at Melton on Saturday November 15 when Forty Love after galloping for the final 50-60 metres was NOT relegated for excessive galloping when third in the 3Y0 colts, geldings and entires 1st Division.

Then at Ballarat on Thursday Amour Maternal after galloping over the concluding stages was relegated to fourth when other runners were not close to him leaving punters scratching their heads in disbelief.

Who am I to query the stewards decisions? But both races were mind boggling results.

Maryborough memo

■ Popular Maryborough opened the week on Monday November 17 with a most interesting program.

One of the biggest runs of the day was produced by Bannockburn owner/trainer/driver Peter Fiscalini’s 6Y0 Lincoln Royal-Carmel Tojo gelding Big Boy Mal at odds of $51.00 in the 2190 metre See You At Stawell Nov 30 Stawell Pacing Cup (second heat).

Driven with aggression from gate six to head off the poleline leader Sir Nippa running into the first turn, Big Boy Mal after spending plenty of petrol doing so was allowed to run having many of his rivals off the bit chasing.

Holding a handy lead approaching the final bend when Sir Nippa eased off his back to try and issue a short lived claim, Big Boy Mal showed no signs of stopping to record a 2.1 metre margin over Sir Nippa which tried hard, but was no match for the winner.

Platinum Jive (one/one) after also working out of the gate from barrier five before receiving cover from Ranger Rick (outside front line) who after being trapped three wide also worked hard to gradually move to the breeze before dropping out sharply in the last lap was third 9.7 metres away. The mile rate an exceptional 1-55.8.

It was Big Boy Mal’s seventh victory in 36 outings after having last won in June last year at Ballarat when a 100/1 chance.

■ Bet Bet part-owner/trainer Ray Cross at the age of 86 snared the 2190 metre Redpath Tyre & Battery Service Trotters Mobile with Romantic Nina, a 5Y0 daughter of Centurion Alm and Kumbya who chalked up her 12th success in 103 outings.

Driven by Ryan Backhouse, Romantic Nina was eased from outside the front line to settle three pegs as Majestic Tooth (gate two) led for Kerryn Manning.

With runs coming from back in the field in the last lap as both Dossier (one/one) and Naked Truth (solo second line) made their runs three and four wide appearing as if they would fight out the finish, the race changed complexion as Dossier galloped bumping Naked Truth outside him who also galloped putting both out of business, Romantic Nina used an inside passage to trail the leader into the straight before angling off her back and finished best to prevail by 2.1 metres from Majestic Truth who was presented with the race. Im Above The Law (one/two from gate six) was third 6.9 metres back. The mile rate 202.8.

■ The Peter Egan Bi-Rite Electrical Trotters Mobile was taken out by Merrigum owner/ trainer/driver Neil Caldwell’s 7Y0 SkyvalleyAmaori Spur mare Madge Egan in a 2-00.4 mile rate.

Despite racing exposed from gate five outside the pacemaker Azalea Mae, Madge Egan dug in deep when required to stall off all challengers and gain the day by 1.1 metres from Whats The Tea who was taken back from outside the front line to settle three back in the moving line before going forward three wide running into the home turn, with 12Y0 mare Tension Seeker (one/one from gate four) third a neck away.

■ Mount Wallace trainer/driver Kyle Marshall landed the Maryborough IGA Vicbred Voucher 3Y0 Maiden Pace over 2190 metres with The Storm Inside-Macray Soiree 3Y0 gelding Ted Bear. Beginning swiftly to cross polemarker Whenimready, Ted Bear was rated to perfection to greet the judge easily by 7.2 metres from Eebeebee (one/one from gate six) in a 200.6 mile rate. Ima Tiggy Tiger which galloped shortly after the start from gate two regained his composure to settle four pegs before using the sprint lane for third 1.5 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.6.

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

St Arnaud part-owner/trainer/driver Scott

Torney’s 7Y0 Andover Hall-Maori Road gelding Aldebaran Maverick registered his first victory since February 2023 when successful in the 1690 metre Maryborough Golf Club Trotters Mobile.

Giving his supporters some concern when galloping in the score up causing a false start, Aldebaran Maverick (gate two) at the second attempt trailed the noted leader Christmas Babe from outside the front line receiving a sweet trip before angling three wide halfway up the running and sprinting hard to score by 5.5 metres from polemarker Jungle Spider alobg the sprint lane. Nuclear Attitude (four pegs from gate two on the second line) also used the sprint lane for third a neck away. The mile rate 2-02.1.

Tuesday’s tale

■ At Tuesday’s regular Shepparton meeting, Mitchellstown trainer/driver Kylie Sugars’ 2Y0 Majestic Son-Indie Pepperell gelding Van Nostrand was impressive in taking the Neatline Shepparton Gold Cup 17/1 Maiden Trotters Mobile over 2190 metres.

Restrained from outside the front line to the rear as Taken By Wine (gate three) led before handing over to polemarker Sebs Gal. Making a fast forward move three wide in the last lap, Van Nostrand moved up to join the leaders with Farstar which had raced uncovered from the extreme draw with the pair running past the leader.

Finishing best, Van Nostrand ran home nicely to register a 1.5 metre margin over Farstar, with Taken By Wine holding third 3.1 metres back. The mile rate 2-09.

■ Local Kialla trainer Dave Farrar combined with Damian Wilson to land the 2190 metre

$5,000 Prize Package FOF ‘Dress To Impress’ On Cup Night Pace.

Coming across from gate three with Warrioress (gate two) inside him, Krakey pressed forward to assume control shortly after the start and allowed to dictate terms couldn’t be caught, greeting the judge by 2.7 metres from Warrioress which had every opportunity to run him down. Polemarker Beryls Boots after trailing the pair was third 1.1 metres back, The mile rate 1-59.5.

■ Pompapiel part-owner/breeder John Davidson has 6Y0 Used To Me-Estee Poppy gelding Frankythefrenchman going great guns at present chalking up his eighth victory in 62 outings when successful in the Saddleworld Shepparton and Bendigo Trotters Mobile over 2189 metres.

Beginning safely from outside the front line as Night Sky (gate four) inside him led, regular reinsman Chris Alford sent Franky forward and had little difficulty in taking over and never looked in any danger greeting the judge 6.5 metres in advance of Night Sky in a 2-02.3 mile rate. Suzys Dream (four pegs from the extreme draw) was third 21.5 metres back.

■ Another local area winner was Sweet LouRosharni filly Shezfairysweet in the SHRC Xmas Dining Packages Book Now 2Y0 Pace again over 21190 metres for Girgarre husband and wife Mark and Lisa Pitt.

Pouncing on the lead from gate two, Shezfairysweet led all of the wy to easily account for The Golden Hook (gate two) which trailed by 7.2 metres in 1-59.1. First starter Crackin Philtra was third for Kyabram’s Mick Blackmore 7.1 metres back from four pegs after starting inside the second line.

Midweek missive

■ Bendigo was Wednesday’s fixture com-

mencing with a highly competitive 1650 metre Garrards Horse & Hound Pace – the victor being Kooreh (St Arnaud ) co- trainers Shaun and Jason McNaulty’s very handy 6Y0 Sunshine Beach-Our Prima Regal entire Pesci.

Driven by James Herbertson, Pesci (gate five) went forward at the start only to be trapped uncovered as polemarker Hes No Romeo retained the inside running.

Gaining cover when both Ima Terminator (outside the front line) and Dessie Gee (gate two second line following) went forward racing for the bell, Pesci was relegated to three back in the moving line.

With runs coming from all directions on straightening, Hes No Romeo shifted ground allowing Madigan three pegs from inside the second line to use the sprint lane to no avail with Wattlebank Arnie (gate two), a stablemate of the pacemaker dashing through on the inside and Pesci putting in his claim out wide.

Finishing full of running, Pesci scored by 1.5 metres from Wattlebank Arnie and Hes No Romeo who fought back gamely for third 2.6 metres away. The mile rate 1-53.4.

■ Allendale trainer Basil Dooley’s 7Y0 Blissful Hall-Miles Of Smiles mare Asmileandawinx at start 127 landed the 2150 Nutrien AG Solutions Bendigo Pace in a 1-58.1 mile rate.

Driven by Connor Ronan, Asmileandawinx settled four back in the moving line from gate four on the second line as polemarker Final Bow led.

Going forward three wide racing for the bell followed up by Myrtle May (gate five second line) to join Final Bow, Asmileandawink was given a breather one/one as Myrtle Bow applied extreme pressure to the leader for the entire last lap exhausting their chances even though Myrtle Bow was still in front on turning.

Angling wide in the straight, Asmileandawinx ran home strongly to record a half neck margin over Ashante Prince along the sprint lane after trailing the leader from inside the second line. Swiss Lightning (one/ two) ran home out wide for third 2.4 metres back.

■ Bagshot owner/trainer Mary Jane Mifsud scored a massive victory with 4Y0 Ultimate Machete-Alleluia Lombo mare Princess Arna in the Revolve Print Pace over 2150 metres.

Driven by Jack Laugher, Princess Arna after racing roughly from the extreme draw was trapped three and four wide as the start was effected before being restrained to the rear of the field with Taste It (going forward from outside the front line to lead).

Set alight with a brilliant burst of speed racing for the bell to assume control, Princess Arna showed no sign of stopping to reach the wire 1.4 metres clear of Kimchi (mid-field in the running line from inside the second line), with Taste It holding down third 4.1 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.3.

■ Marong owner and co-trainers of 3Y0 McWicked-Mitzi M Hanover filly Wicked Mitzi - Terry and Jacinta Allan-Gange were victorious in winning the 1650 metre Bendigo Locksmiths Pace with the consistent filly.

Driven by James Herbertson, Wicked Mitzi had little trouble leading from gate four and after being given every chance, raced away to register a 6.9 metre margin in advance of Amphijet (one/three from gate three second line) off a three wide double trail last lap. Sharp Interest (gate two second line) followed Owen The Saints (gate three forward three wide solo last lap) for third 2.4 metres back. The mile rate 1-53.

Ballarat bulletin

■ Ballarat was Thursday’s fixture with a massive ten race program including the Vicbred Super Series second Semi-Finals for 4Y0 mares, colts, geldings and entires over 2200 metres.

The winners were The Answer (Michael Stanley) and Kiss (Emma Stewart) in the mares division and Miki To Success and War Dan Buddy (Emma Stewart).

■ Nine year old Fling It-Rainbow Reflexion gelding Fling It Rainbow gelding Fling It Rainbow was a blow out victor of the Book Now Xmas Race Meeting 4/12 Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres.

Driven by James Herbertson for Rockbank owner/trainer Albert Cefai, Fling It Rainbow at odds of $36.50 enjoyed a cosy trip from the pole following the leader Abbie (gate four) before sprinting home along the inside after Abbie shifted ground to score by 1.7 metres in a mile rate of 2-00.8 over Abbie, with Oopzee Daisy (gate six) third 5.2 metres back after racing exposed.

Sulky Snippets Sulky Snippets

This Week

■ Wednesday – Mildura/Bendigo, Thursday – Ballarat, Friday – Melton, Saturday –Melton, Sunday – Stawell (Cup), Monday –Maryborough, Tuesday – Shepparton.

■ Coimadai trainer Graeme Whittle’s honest 8Y0 gelding Floating Mountain led throughout from gate five in the Del Re National Foods Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres.

Raced and driven by son Matthew, Floating Mountain travelled sweetly all of the way to gain the day by 2.3 metres from Snickers Express (gate two) which trailed. Ox Knox (one/ three from gate three second line) was promoted to third 10.1 metres from the winner after protesting against Amour Maternal (one/ one from gate four – outside winner home turn) for galloping in the home straight finishing 10.1 metres away. The mile rate 2-00.3.

Friday facts

■ Geelong raced on Friday and Cranbourne part-owner/trainer Rick Cashman and a host of co-owners were successful with 5Y0 Sweet Lou-Narree Rose gelding My Uncle Stan in the 1609 metre Apco We’ve Got You Pace over 1609 metres.

Given the run of the race by Jodi Quinlan from inside the second line following the poleline leader Ferrigno, My Uncle Stan a winner of seven with 12 placings from 51 outings prior, used the sprint lane to perfection to put the race beyond doubt in a couple of strides approaching the post to register a 3 metre margin over Strapping Red (three pegs from gate two second line), with Golden Shooz from the extreme draw going forward three wide in the last lap from the tail for third 1.1 metres back after looking a big hope on the home turn when outside the leader. The mile rate 1-53.6.

■ Classy 5Y0 Captaintreacherous-Love List entire Petracca was an easy victor of the Zav Amusements Serious Fun Pace over 2100 metres.

Raced by Danny Zavitanous’ AD Investments Pty Ltd, Petracca trained by Emma Stewart and driven on this occasion by Tasmyn Potter settled three back in the moving line from the extreme draw as Little Louie led from gate four.

Setting off three wide at the bell to join the leader for the final circuit before surging clear on turning, Petracca kicked another goal (his 13th in 19 outings), scoring by 6.5 metres from Roadmaster from last off a three wide double trail last lap after starting outside the front line. Twisting By (gate two – one/two last lap) was third a head away. The mile rate 1-55.8. Len Baker

Windsor carjacking

■ Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit

Detectives have arrested three teenagers following a carjacking in Windsor.

It is understood the group entered a rideshare vehicle on Martin St in Brighton about 4.53am on November 5.

Police will allege the group threatened the driver with a machete before they stole the vehicle on Union St in Windsor.

The 27-year-old was not physically injured. The unoccupied vehicle was later located on Perth St in Prahran.

Detectives executed multiple search warrants on Thursday (Nov. 20) at properties in Harkness and Kurunjang.

A 15-year-old boy from the Melton area has since charged with aggravated carjacking. He was remanded to appear before a children’s court at a later date.

A 15-year-old boy from the Melton area has been charged with aggravated carjacking and is due to face a children’s court at a later date.

A 16-year-old boy from the Melton area has been charged with aggravated carjacking.

Classified Information

DISPLAY CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid display advertising is available for $20 per column centimetre. Sample prices: Full-Page Ad (37cm h x 8 cols w), $5920. Half-Page Ad (18cm h x 8 cols w), $2880. Quarter-Page Ad (18cm h x 4 cols w), $1440. All ads are pre-paid at time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

LINE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Paid line advertising is available for $20 for first 20 words, then $1 per word thereafter. All ads are prepaid at time of booking. Pre-pay by Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Pre-pay by EFT to 033091 260131 (Local Media Pty Ltd, Westpac, Eltham).

STATEWIDE, MELBOURNEWIDE

Classified Ads are read across Victoria, included in all online (digital) editions of The Local Paper and Melbourne Observer. Fresh online editions are published weekly on Wednesdays, February-December (with exception of Easter Wednesday). You can have Digital Editions emailed free to you - register at www.FreePaper.com.au Print editions are published fortnightly on Wednesdays, February-December.

ONLINE EDITION DATES - 2025

Go directly to www.LocalPaper.com.au or www.MelbourneObserver.com.au to read digital editions (exact replicas of print editions), free. Online edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 12, Feb. 19, Feb. 26, Mar. 5, Mar. 12, Mar. 19, Mar. 26, Apr. 2, Apr. 9, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, May 28, Jun. 4, Jun. 11, Jun. 28, Jun. 25, Jul. 2, Jul. 9, Jul. 16, Jul. 23, Jul., 30, Aug. 6, Aug. 13, Aug. 10, Aug. 27, Sep. 3, Sep. 10, Sep. 17, Sep. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8, Oct. 15, Oct. 22, Oct. 29, Nov. 5, Nov. 12, Nov. 19, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, Dec. 10. Lodge ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION DATES - 2025

‘Hard copies’ available free through a network of outlets across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and selected country areas. Print edition dates in 2025 are: Feb. 5, Feb. 19, Mar. 5, Mar. 19, Apr. 2, Apr. 16, Apr. 30, May 14, May 28, Jun. 11, Jun. 25, Jul. 9, Jul. 23, Aug. 6, Aug. 20, Sep. 3, Sep. 17, Oct. 1, Oct. 15, Oct. 29, Nov. 12, Nov. 26, Dec. 10. Lodge your ads by 4pm Friday prior to publication.

PRINT EDITION AREAS

Eastern Suburbs Edition. Boroondara (north), Knox-Sherbrooke, Manningham, Maroondah, Monash, Whitehorse. Lilydale and Yarra Valley Edition. Healesville, Lilydale, Mount Evelyn, Warburton. Mitchell Strathbogie Edition. Avenel, Beveridge, Broadford, Euroa, Kilmore, Nagambie, Seymour, Wallan, Wandong-Heathcote Junction. North-West Edition. Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Hume, Maribyrnong, Melton, Merri-bek, Moonee Valley. Moorabool, Wyndham Northern Suburbs Edition. Banyule, Darebin (north - Preston-Reservoir), Darebin (southNorthcote, Thornbury), Nillumbik (urban), Whittlesea (urban). Regional Edition. Mansfield, Murrindindi (Alexandra, Kinglake, Yea), Nilllumbik (rural), Whittlesea (rural). Southern Cross Weekly Edition. Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington, Yarra. South-East. Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Mornington Peninsula.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Free non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@LocalPaper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

SOME ADVERTISING RULES

• All car advertisers must supply registration or Vehicle Identification Numbers. By law, we are unable to publish listings without those details.

• Any person or business advertising to sell or give away a dog, cat, puppy or kitten in Victoria must be enrolled on the Pet Exchange Register to obtain a source number, and must include this source number along with each animal's microchip number in all advertisements.

• Advertisers should be honest in their dealings. Claims should be true, accurate and based on reasonable grounds.

FREE non-commercial classified advertising is available for individual readers, selling iitems. Your ad can be up to 40 words. This service is available at the sole discretion of the Editor. Ads will appear for up to 4 weeks. Free ads are not available to businesses or organisations. Deadline: 4pm Fridays prior to Print Edition. You can lodge your Free Ad by:

• WEB: www.Advertise Free.com.au

• EMAIL: editor@Local Paper.com.au

• POST: Mail the form (available in this newspaper) to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Free Ads will not be accepted by phone.

FREE PHOTO ADS AdvertiseFree.com.au

BOOKS. Collection of Mary Grant vintage books. Mostly VGC with dust jack- ets. Offers welcome. Research. 9437 1253. JJ-NN

BOOSTER SEAT. Mothers hoice. Convertible. 6 months to 8 years. VGC. $40. Whittlesea. 0494 380 264. HH-LL

ALUMINIUM PUNT 4 metre, with all required safety equipment with relocatable folding seats plus 77.5hp Mercury outboard motor. GC. $1600. Seymour. 0410 032 064. NN-QQ

ANGLE GRINDER. XUL with cutting disc. 10mm impact, drill Xui. EC. $10. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

ANTIQUE FRIDGE. Norge Round Top. GC. $30. Seymour. 0422 204 977. TT-XX

BARBIE Dolls and barbie Dresses. GC. 10 for $250. Surrey Hills. 0410 626 110, 4pm-10pm. RR-VV

BATHROOM TILES. To cover 270sq m. EC. $60. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950. HH-LL

BBQ. Gas. 5-Burner. Wheels. New ignition assembly. Full gas bottle. EC. $100. Pascoe Vale. 0419 138 356. RR-VV

BBQ. Red Centre. 45cm round. Large cast iron plate trivet for boiling. Also hose and wind shield. New, still in box. $45. Bittern. 0459 558 055 RR-VV

BED. 3-seater and two seater. Red, vinyl. Dark wood trims. VGC. $300. Cranbourne, 0401 898 413. HH-LL

BED. Electric. King Size. High low. Head comes up to sitting position. Legs raise, bed tilts. 12 months old. No longer needed. Top quality mattress. EC. $3500. Yea. 0409 944 982. LL-OO

BICYCLE PUMP. Steel floor, pump active. Includes gauge to check correct pressure. EC. Paid $15, sell $5. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

BICYCLE SEAT. Black, Endzone Extragel. Paid $20, sell $10. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

BIKE. Lady’s. Purple. Make: Huffey Friction. Complete with helmet and pump and basket. VGC. $120. Pakenham. 5940 5018. LL-OO

Your free ad will appear in all editions of The Local Paper, covering all suburbs of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula, and selected Victorian country areas. Your free ad will appear in up to 4 issues. There are no charges, no commissions. T&Cs apply. Lodge your ad at: www.AdvertiseFree.com.au

DRILL DRIVER. Ozito. 10mm, 28 ow, micro speed control, still in box. EC. $10. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

DISHWASHER. Norj. 13.7 litres per wash. Large. 2’ wide, 2.9high. Not connected. New. Bought for $720. Sell $360. Alexandra. 0409 470 107. NN-QQ

BRICKS. 500. Clean, as new $400. 100 face bricks, $120. New. Bittern. 0419 582 437. PP-TT

BRICKLAYERS TUBE & CLIP SCAFFOLDING TUBES clips swivels joiners putlog clips base plates sole boards Oregon planks. Genuine offers only enquires welcome GC. $6000. Crib Point. 0419 935 807 PP-TT

CARAVAN CRUSADER. 17ft 1998 pop top, full annexe. reg July 26. double bed. new mattress. 3 way fridge. Gas cook top and grill. Tows well. GC. $9000. Toolangoi. 0448 438 790. TT-XX

CARAVAN. Millard Grand Champion 17 FT Air/ con 3 way fridge microwave gas cook top double bed plus two smaller singles full annex with floor van cover Pop Top 1170 kg registered many extras. GC. $12,750. Flowerdale. 0411 577 050 PP-TT

CHEST FREEZER. Haier. Three months old. $150. Reservoir. 0491 083 248. NN-QQ

CHILD’S Old Style TwoSeater School Desk. Steel frame, hardwood seat and desktop GC. $40. Yea. 0409 109 887. NN-QQ

CIRCULAR SAW. Skilsaw. 7¼” 184mm 2 1/ 8 HP. Lightweight. Powerful high torque motopr. textured front and rear handles. GC. $30. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

CLOTH FOOTBALL MASCOT. Footscray Bulldogs. 39cm tall. VGC. $65. Pick-up: Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

CRICKET MEMORABILIA. 19 books. Bradman Calendar 1908-2001. Plus ‘Argus’ Magazines 1950, 1951 x 2. GC. Box Hill South. 9890 7904. PP-TT

DOLL HOUSE. Three level wood house with wood furniture, carpets, accessories, two families, baby dog, cat, plates, cups. Made of ceramics. $130. Bundoora. 9467 8990 TT-XX

ELECTRIC DRILL. Ryobi. 240V. 50Hz. 600w. With case. EC. $20. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR. ‘Pride Go Mobility Chair’. Hardly used. EC. $1400. Viewbank. John, 0418 583 120. LL-OO

ENCYCLOPEDIA. Complete set A-Z. GC. $60 ONO. Frankston. 9789 9634. HH-LL

FISHER PAYKEL Fridge Freezer. 8 months old. New. Cost $870, sell $400. Keysborough. Joe, 0402 385 692.HH-LL

FOOTBALL CAPS. Footscray. New. Pick up Glenroy or ost extra cost. $15 each. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

FOOTWEAR. Navy woven leather. Diana ferrari. Sandal size 9, worn once. EC. $50. Ferntree Gully. 9758 3950.HH-LL

Major Tractor.

with slasher, grader blade and harrow. GC. $7000 negotiable. Wonga Park. 0449 028 209. TT-XX

FRIDGE. Palsonic. Upright. 4’8” x 1.9”. GC. $30. Seymour. 0422 204 977. TT-XX

GARDEN HOSE. 30 metres long. Good quality, heavy duty. GC. Paid $80, sell $20. Mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

GOLF CLUBS. Gents (13), Ladies (13).. And 200+ balls. GC. $400. Doncaster. 0409 414 417. NN-QQ

Cast iron. 33cm x 21cm. Very clean. As new. Pascoe Vale. 0419 138 356. RR-VV

TRESTLE TABLE. Lifetime. 4

Bi-fold blow mould. EC.

mt Martha. 5973 4163. TT-XX

LAND. Expansive acreage ideal for farming or livestock. Secure paddocks, peaceful setting, close to amenities. Option to lease land only or house and land together. Suitable for genuine agricultural use. GC. $420/month for the land only. Land and house, $15 00/month. Balnarring Beach. 0434189 449 PP-TT

LAWN MOWER. Ozito. Corded. With catcher. lightweight. Paid $149 at Bunnings. Sell $60. Mt Martha 5973 4163. JJ-NN

MATT BLATT egg chair on steel base. $130. Malvern East. 0419 685 666 PP-TT

MOBILITY SCOOTERS

(2). Deceased estate. S840 (yellow). With battery, lights and all extras. EC. $1400. East Travel Elite, small and collapsable. Folds up easily buy very heavy. $500. Taylors Hill (Melton). Contact Len, 0401 679 745. TT-XX

Metro- VGC Large

Range- Swivel Seat, Digital Dash, 10kph- Rear Bag, Shopping Basket, Spare Key & Charger. Too Many Features to List. Under Warranty, Can Deliver Free if Required. VGC. $1800. Moorabbin. 0401 980 969. PP-TT

MOTOR HOME.. With two solar panels for lights and air con. Double bed, gas cooker. Holden Rodeo 1998 rego till Feb. 24, 2026. Tour atlas inc. new battery and x bars. History of work completed. 1LB- 2CN. VGC. $19,000 ONO. Alexandra. 0409 470 107. LL-OO

PARTS for Ford AUIIV8. Secondhand. Struts. New parts: ball joints, 2 boxes of parts. VGC. $1000. Seymour 0419 881 573. N-Q

PIANOLA ROLLS. Around 50 rolls in all. Many older tunes. GC. $75. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. LL-OO

PHANTOM COMIC Collection. 1360. Continuous, No 692-1976. Also No 552 and 548. Replicas: 20 of between Nos 16-34. Doubles: 38. Phantom’s World, 8x. Sell full collection only. Best reasonable offer. Ferntree Gully. 9758 8990. RR-VV

PLUMBING FITTINGS. New. Box, 100m, sew/SW E/Boxes. Box: 100mm, 500mm, elbows, as new. New. $35. yea. 5750 2615. HH-LL

QUEEN COVER SET. Laura Ashley, cotton. Size: 220cm x 240cm with 2 pillowcases. Pale blue with thin white stripes. Never used. EC. $25. Ashburton. 9885 2203.TT-XX

RECORDS. Capital./ 78rpm Les Paul and Mary Ford, 14 records. Also 2 records, 33rpm. GC. 78 rpm - $50. 33 rpm - $15. Box Hill. 9890 7904. TT-XX

REFERENCE BOOK. Holden Commodore 1978. 42cm x 29cm. $85. Glenroy. 9306 7628 LL-OO

RIDE-ON Deutscher 280 Honda 390 motor run fine seal on shaft leaks, heaps of parts including new seat, new cutting plate body part dismantled, everything is there. GC. $500 or offer. yarck. 0414 718 812. NN-QQ

ROLLER DOOR Electric motor. 4 Doors brand. Near new Model 4DR1 v4 with remotes. Still has new stickers on it. EC. $100. Whittlesea. 0419 002 507.LL-OO ROTARY CLOTHES LINE. Mk 2. Cost, $349. Sell $140. Doncaster. 0409 414 417. NN-QQ

RUG. Onkaparinga Squatter. Woollen. Tartan pattern. Red, purple, brown. 152 x 182cm. EC. $25. Ashburton. 9885 2203. TT-XX

SAWS. 5 vintage hand saws for woodwork. FC. $12. Also frame for manual sharpening included. GC. $12. Ashburton. 9885 2203. TT-XX

PUBLIC NOTICES

GOD’S CHURCH invites faithful followwees of Christ to attend the New Testament local Passover night service. Alfredton, Ballarat To secure your seat, 0419 327 366.N-P

RING PULLS off all aluminium cans and any quan- tity to assist towards people who need prosthetics and wheel chairs and walking frames. Genuine collector. Victoria wide. Ararat. 0458 339 871.

GROUPS can advertise their upcoming events in The Local Paper, without advertising charges. Go to the What’s On - Free Ad Form section at the www.Local Paper.com.au website WHAT’S ON

and meet world champion athletes. Free. At The Crown Promenade, 3 Whiteman St, Southbank. Phone 8652 9722. dsr.org.au/vdsrfestival TT-XX

BAR FRIDGE. GC. Free. Flemington. 0408 539 391. VV-XX

BARBIE Dolls. In orginial dresses. EC. $5 each. Melton. 0412 869 304. VV-XX

BEDHEAD. Queen. Pine. Also mattching mirrorframe. FC. $20. Marysville. 0400 912 916. VV-XX

BOOKCASE. Pine. FC. $50. Marysville. 0400 912 916. VV-XX

BRICKS. 100+, clean. Red bricks and halves. Free. Keon Park. Alan, 9469 4558. VV-XX

DINING CHAIRS. 8 modern, leather, chocolate brown. Some need reupholstering. $100 lot. Marysville. 0400 912 916. VV-XX

HORSE RUG. Tartan. As new. Never used. $35. Macleod. 0458 639 380. VV-XX

IKEA Poang Chair. GC. $60. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. VV-XX

MATT BLATT red Egg Chair with 2 cushions. VGC. $150. Malvern East. 0419 685 666. VV-XX

MG ZS SUV 2023 one owner 26,000km, comes with RWC, bought in Nov. 2023 from dealership. 2BG-4LV. VGC. $16,000. Epping. 0422 076 298. VV-XX

NEWPORT BOWLS

CLUB presents The Abba Show. Sunday, Marchc 22, 2026, at 1 Market St, Newport. Show: 2pm4pm. Must book with club. Limited numbers. $25 per person. Barbecue available at $5. Bar open 12 Noon6pm. VV-XX

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT ESSENDON WEST

1. Optus and Vodafone are proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 37A Emerald Street, Essendon West VIC 3040.

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of:

•Replacement of three (3) existing Optus/Vodafone panel antennas with three (3) new Optus/Vodafone panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);

•Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including GPS antennas, mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and

•Internal works within the existing equipment shelter.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.

Please direct comments to Vanessa Wan at 0447 240 015 or via email at Optus.submissions@servicestream.com.au or via post at Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Thursday 11 December 2025.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visits www.rfnsa.com.au/3040006

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT OAKLEIGH SOUTH

1. Optus and Vodafone are proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station at 19-71 Carroll Road, Oakleigh South VIC 3167 (1\LP148203).

2. The proposed upgrade will consist of:

•Replacement of three (3) existing Optus/Vodafone panel antennas with three (3) new Optus/Vodafone panel antennas (each not more than 2.8m in length);

•Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment, including GPS antennas, mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and

•Internal works within the existing equipment shelter.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal.

Please direct comments to Vanessa Wan at 0447 240 015 or via email at Optus.submissions@servicestream.com.au or via post at Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Thursday 11 December 2025.

For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visits www.rfnsa.com.au/3202001.

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

The application reference number is: P25/1059

The Land affected by the application is located at: 3110 AND 3118 POINT NEPEAN ROAD SORRENTO

LOT 5A PS 540310 VOL 12474 FOL 947

LOT 2 PS 540310 VOL 11017 FOL 778

The application is for a permit to: DEVELOP AN OUTBUILDING, SWIMMING POOL, FENCE AND EARTHWORKS, AND VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANT PS540310W AFFECTING THE LAND DESCRIBED AS LOT 2 OF PLAN OF SUBDIVISION 540310W VOLUME 11017 FOLIO 778 BY ADDING THE WORDS “AND A SWIMMING POOL, POOL HOUSE AND ASSOCIATED FENCE ON LOT 2 TO THE SATISFACTION OF THE RESPONSIBLE AUTHORITY” AFTER THE WORDS “THAT ANY LOT AFFECTED BY THIS RESTRICTION SHALL NOT HAVE BUILT, CONSTRUCTED, OR ERECTED ANY BUILDING OUTSIDE THE AREA SHOWN HATCHED HEREON EXCEPT FOR EAVES OR CHIMNEYS NOT EXCEEDING 450 MM IN WIDTH”

A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme:

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE

Clause 32.08-5 (GRZ1)

Clause 42.01-2 (ESO25)

Clause 43.02-2 (DDO3)

Clause 52.02 (Easements, restrictions and reserves)

MATTER FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

Construct or extend an outbuilding

Construct a building or construct or carry out works

Construct a building or construct or carry out works

Vary an easement

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS

Application reference number: P25/1281

Applicant name: M CETINER

The Land affected by this application is located at: 72 & 74 RYMER AVENUE SAFETY BEACH LOT 720 LP 11273 VOL 5765 FOL 874 LOT 1 PS 99223 VOL 9439 FOL 081

The application is for a permit to: DEVELOP 2 DOUBLE-STOREY DWELLINGS ON TWO LOTS (TOTAL 4 DWELLINGS), REMOVE VEGETATION, AND VARY RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS 1413244 (ON LOT 1 TP099223K VOL 09439 FOL 081) AND 1492707 (ON LOT 720 PS011273 VOL 05765 FOL 847) TO ALLOW FOR TWO DWELLINGS ON A LOT, BY:

• DELETING THE DUPLICATED WORD “ON”

• REPLACING THE WORDS “NOT MORE THAN ONE DWELLING HOUSE” WITH “NOT MORE THAN TWO DWELLING HOUSES”

• ADDING THE WORDS “FOR EACH HOUSE” AFTER THE WORDS “APPURTENANCES SHALL BE UNDER ONE ROOF”.

DELETING THE WORDS “AND FURTHER THAN THE SANITARY SYSTEM OF SUCH HOUSE SHALL NOT BE OTHER THAN SEPTIC TANK OR THE KAUSTINE SYSTEM”.

PLANNING SCHEME CLAUSE

Clause 32.08-7 (GRZ1)

Clause 42.02-2 (VPO1)

Clause 43.02-2 (DDO1)

Clause 52.02)

The applicant for the permit is: APPLETREE SORRENTO PTY LTD

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 10 DECEMBER 2025

How can I find out more?You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

News Extra

Death at N. Warren

■ Police are investigating after a man died following a collision in Narre Warren North this afternoon.

It is alleged a car collided with a motorcyclist on Belgrave-Hallam Rd about 3.45pm. The male rider died at the scene.

The driver of the car, a 52year-old Narre Warren South man, was arrested and will be interviewed by police.

Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives were at

MATTER

FOR WHICH A PERMIT IS REQUIRED

Construct two or more dwellings on a lot

Remove, destroy or lop any vegetation specified in a schedule to this overlay.

Construct a building or construct or carry out works.

Vary a restriction

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 10 DECEMBER 2025

How can I find out more?You may look at the application and any documents that support the application free of charge at: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

You may also call (03) 5950 1010 to arrange a time to look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. This can be done during office hours and is free of charge.

Privacy Notification: The personal information provided in an objection is collected for planning purposes in accordance with the Planning & Environment Act 1987 (the Act). The public may view an objection in accordance with Section 57 of the Act whilst the planning application is current

the scene and an investigation is underway.

S. Morang fatality

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man following a fatal collision in South Morang earlier this year.

It is alleged a truck collided with a Kia wagon along Gorge Rd on Tuesday, February 25 about 9.30am.

The impact of the collision caused the car to burst into flames. Emergency workers tried to

save the 82-year-old Briar Hill woman, but she died at the scene.

The driver of the truck, a 40-year-old Mill Park man, was arrested at the scene.

On Sunday (Nov. 23), detectives charged the 40-yearold with culpable driving, dangerous driving causing death, careless driving and use mobile phone while driving. He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 28.

■ Contact Crime Stoppers on