REGIONAL EDITION MANSFIELD • MURRINDINDI • NILLUMBIK • WHITTLESEA • YARRA RANGES
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
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● McEwen MHR Rob Mitchell was at the Whittlesea Community House top help with a donation of carry-bags to Margaret Brida, to assist in the food relief program. Photo: Facebook.
ALEXANDRA FOOTY SEASON HOPES END
■ Alexandra Rebels’ 2026 hopes came to an end against Seville at Yarra Junction in the Outer East Division 1 Preliminary Final on Saturday (Sep. 5). FINAL SCORES Seville ........................... 3.4, 8.6, 12.7, 16.11 (107) Alexandra ........................ 0.1, 4.2, 9.4, 12.4 (76) The Blues enjoyed a 29-point victory after leading all day, and will now play Pakenham in the Grand Final on Saturday (Sep. 12) at the Don Road Sporting Complex at Healesville. Entry Prices:Adults: $15. Pensioners: $. Under 18s / U19 players: $. Under 16s: Free. Alexandra’s team selections were: B: Wallace, Meehan, Georgiadis HB: C. Boots, S. Heveren, T. Boots C: Frankcombe, Parker, Howell HF: Johnson, Critchley, Cairns F: Edwards, Stewart, Grimwade Fol.: Nankervis, Aikman, Bishop Inter.: Cooper, Coventry, Ellks, Kapakoulakis Seville’s selected team included Nathan Thompson, Max Shepherd, Jarrod Thompson, Jye Sciortino, Paul Bailey, Blake Morison, Domenic Aloi, Jordan Trollope, Joel Koger, Jett Benninga, Mark Cecere, Sonny Saniga, Nathan OKeefe, Matt Di Pietrantonio, Jack Nolan, Mason O’Neill, Daniel Iacuone, Tyler Petrie, Aspen O’Neill, Dean Eliades, Mitch Medson and Tristen Oneill. In the Outer East Division 1 Reserves Preliminary Final Belgrave 13.7 (85) d Seville 2.5 (17).
Works underway ■ Murrindindi’s Cr Eric Lording says Works programming is underway for the 2026-27 financial year period with road grading programs already developed, The current wet weather is delaying the program. Pit and Drain cleaning programs are planned and Line marking program due for commencement towards the end of the calendar year.
First-ever cattle sale for Deputy Mayor ■ Cr Anita Carr, Deputy Mayor of Murrindindi, told Councillor colleagues about her first-ever cattle sale at the Yea yards. “I headed over to the Yea Saleyards for their Combined Agents Sale,” Cr Carr told the latest Shire meeting. “Having never attended a sale before, I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I can honestly say it was a brilliant morning. “It was great to spend time talking with farmers about a wide range of topics and to experience the excitement of the live bidding firsthand. “The Yea District Memorial Hospital nurses were also onsite in the Murrindindi Health Van, focusing on mental health and having many valuable conversations throughout the day. “Council's Fire Recovery Team officers, Vee and Amanda, were there as well. “They were two very friendly and approachable faces, available to assist community members with a range of challenges and recovery-related issues. “The Yea Saleyards is an incredible facility, and having these additional support services available onsite for farmers is so important. “Thank you to the Yea Saleyards team and all of the partner organisations involved in providing these services to our farming communities. “The support, care and connection offered through initiatives like these matter more than words can express,” Cr Carr said.
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56 PAGES: LARGEST READERSHIP OF ANY LOCAL NEWSPAPER IN MURRINDINDI SHIRE
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
Local Briefs Medical incentive ■ “The Coalition wants to pay doctors and nurses to move bush, unveiling a $40m scheme targeting Victoria’s most understaffed rural hospitals,” the Herald Sun reports. “ Nurses and health professionals willing to take up hard-to-fill positions in regional Victoria will be gifted up to $10,000 a year under the Coalition’s election pledge to fill the gaps in the state’s struggling health system. “The new policy will offer doctors, nurses, midwives and allied health professionals an upfront $10,000 bonus to fill critical jobs, mirroring relocation incentives offered to teachers in hard-to-staff regional and rural schools,” reported journalist Brendan Kearns.
MP TELLS OF FAILURES IN AMBULANCE SYSTEM
Veterans Day ■ Cr Anita Carr, Murrindindi Shire De[puty Mayor, has told Council about joining veterans, RSL members from Alexandra, Eildon and surrounding areas, emergency service personnel, our State member for Eildon - Cindy McLeish, Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher, and many community members at the Alexandra Cenotaph to commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day. “The sun shone as the service commenced, with many speakers paying tribute to those who served,” Cr Carr said. “The Ode read by local Secondary College student Riley Cole, raising of the flag by RSL member Gerry Laws, and the National Anthem are always especially meaningful on occasions such as these, and that significance was certainly felt throughout the crowd. “This year held particular importance as it marked the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. “After the service concluded attendees were welcomed back to the Alexandra RSL rooms for refreshments. It was such a special atmosphere in the room and I enjoyed speaking with many different people and enjoying some delicious morning tea. “A sincere thank you to the Alexandra RSL for organising this important commemorative service and for their ongoing dedication to honouring and remembering those who have served our nation. Lest We Forget,” Cr Carr said.
Men’s Shed Week ■ Mitchell Shire’s Men’s Sheds have been supporting local health, wellbeing and social connection for more than two decades. With Men’s Shed Week 2026 here (September 7-13), the national theme ‘Building on Purpose’ highlights the role sheds play in creating welcoming spaces where people can connect, learn new skills and contribute to their community. Across Kilmore, Broadford, Seymour, Wallan/Hidden Valley and Puckapunyal, each shed brings its own history, projects and impact. “Collectively, these sheds deliver handson community projects, skill-sharing and vital social support that strengthen the Shire. Their work can be seen in playground builds, heritage restorations, woodworking programs and inclusive activities that help reduce isolation and improve wellbeing,” a Mitchell Council representative said.
Well done Brock ■ Cr Anita carr gave a special mention to Eildon local Brock Edwards who auditioned on The Voice Australia: “What an incredibly talented performer Brock is and it was just so cool seeing a local on national television – his intro speaking about Eildon was a highlight but his performance even better. Unfortunately no chair turns but congratulations Brock on giving it a crack.”
● Annabelle Cleeland, Euroa MLA
■ Euroa MLA Annabelle Cleeland says her friend called 000 with uncontrollable bleeding and excruciating pain. “There were no ambulances available in the entire Hume region, and she was told to call a taxi,” Ms Cleeland said. “Brian Mounsey called an ambulance for his 92-year-old mother-in-law Norma Walker in Kilmore, who suffered a fall and was bleeding from the head, and was told there were none available and to drive her himself. “This is also the story of Lorraine Jones and Pamela Ellis and too many regional Victorians. “This is the state of Victoria under the Carroll Labor Government. “Victorians are desperate for a fresh start, and nowhere are Labor’s failures more visible than in the state of our regional health services and ambulance stations,” Ms Cleeland told State Parliament.
BROKEN PROMISES OVER HOSPITAL ■ A 372-signature petition about Maroondah Hospital has been presented to State Palriament by Ringwood MLA Will Fowles. “The Victorian Labor Government has abandoned the people of Melbourne’s east by walking away from its commitment to fully rebuild Maroondah Hospital, leaving residents without the healthcare infrastructure they were promised,” the petition said. “For years, local families were promised a world-class hospital for the eastern suburbs. “At the 2018 election, the Government promised a new children’s emergency department which it failed to deliver. At the 2022 election, it promised more than $1 billion for a full redevelopment of Maroondah Hospital which it also failed to deliver. “Those promises gave false hope to patients, nurses, doctors and communities across the east that better healthcare was on the way. Instead, the 2026–27 State Budget contains no funding to deliver the full redevelopment of Maroondah Hospital,” the petition said.
Local Briefs Local bird flu case ■ Mitchell Shire has had a recorded case of H5 bird flu. Advice includes: ■ Do not feed wild birds by hand or bird feeders ■ Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands and utensils after handling animals, eggs or raw meat ■ Keep pets away from wildlife, including preventing cats from roaming and keeping dogs on leads in wildlife areas ■ When going to and from national parks, reserves or farms, clean your footwear, clothing and vehicle to help prevent spreading diseases between places ■ If you come across sick or dead wildlife, do not touch it with your bare hands.
Tennis Round Robin ■ The Annual Doubles Ladies Round Robin will take place from 9.30am on Tuesday (Sep,. 15) at Mooroolbark Heights Tennis Club, enter off Hawthory Road, Mooroolbark Cost: $2 donation. BYO Plate of food to share – cuppas and soup provided Optional: BYO Small Raffle Prize Open to all Ladies. No RSVP required – just turn up on the day for fun tennis. Enquiries: phone Kathy, 5962 3639
Sanctuary re-opens ■ Monbulk MLA Daniela De Martino says it is wonderful to experience thde excitement surrounding the reopening of William Ricketts Sanctuary in Mount Dandenong. “Many locals and visitors from near and far are thrilled to once again be able to experience this unique and much-loved place,” Ms De Martino said.
Alice in Wonderland
● Will Fowles, Ringwood MLA
■ The swimming pool project in Mernda has been described as an ‘Alice In Wonderland’ situation by Yan Yean MLA Lauren Kathage. “There is another Alice in Wonderland story playing out in Mernda. In Wonderland Alice eats something and grows bigger. She drinks something and grows smaller. Seven years ago Mernda was looking at a 50-metre pool for around $60 million. Today the price has grown to $85 million, while the pool has shrunk to 25 metres. But after all these years the community just want to see the pool centre built. The Victorian Government has already committed $30 million to the precinct, including $10 million specifically for the pool,” Ms Kathage said.
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Contribution to civic leadership
HONOUR FOR CR McAULAY
■ Cr Sandice McAulay, Cathedral Ward representative on Murrindindi Shire Council, was nominated for the Mary Rogers Award, the recognises women in local government. Cr McAulay said: “I am incredibly touched and honestly still a little overwhelmed - by this beautiful acknowledgement,” Cr McAulay said. “Thank you so very much for your extraordinarily generous words and for recognising my nomination for the Mary Rogers Award,” she said in reply to Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher. “To be nominated alongside such an inspiring group of women in local government was an honour in itself. “Attending the Awards at Parliament House, celebrating the achievements of women who have given so much to their councils and communities, was a wonderful experience and one I will remember for a very long time. “And then to discover that five nominations had been submitted on my behalf — well, that was an unexpected and rather wonderful surprise.
Dedication
● Cr Damien Gallagher. File Image
■ Murrindindi Shire Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher has spoken in praise of Cr Sandice McAulay who was outstanding contribution to civic leadership and the community at the 2026 Mary Rogers Awards (see report, at right). Cr McAulay “received the highest number of nominations for the Mary Rogers Award, reflecting the high regard in which she is held following almost a decade of civic leadership characterised by compassion, integrity and a commitment to bringing people together”, said a Council representative. First elected to Murrindindi Council in 2016, Cr McAulay has served as Deputy Mayor and two terms as Mayor, providing leadership through some of the most challenging periods experienced by the Murrindindi community, including the COVID-19 pandemic, significant economic transition and the 2026 bushfires. Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the recognition reflected both Cr McAulay’s contribution to Council and her deep commitment to the community. “Cr McAulay’s recognition reflects her untiring commitment to community, her ability to bring people together during challenging times, and almost a decade of service characterised by empathy, integrity and a genuine desire to improve outcomes for the people of Murrindindi,” Cr Gallagher said. “Sandice has an ability to build bridges, listen to different perspectives and work respectfully through complex and sometimes difficult issues. That approach has earned her enormous respect across our organisation and community”. “We saw those qualities particularly strongly following the 2026 bushfires, when Sandice was a visible and trusted presence for residents, businesses and farmers. She listened, advocated and worked to make sure the experiences and needs of our communities were heard”. “Throughout her time on Council, Cr McAulay has championed economic development and opportunities for local businesses, community resilience and sustainability, emergency preparedness, community infrastructure and inclusive participation. “She has supported major strategic initiatives including Council’s Economic Development Strategy and the Shaping Murrindindi project, which engaged hundreds of residents in shaping the Shire’s future during a period of significant economic transition following the cessation of native timber harvesting in Victorian state forests. Cr McAulay has also been a strong advocate for equity and inclusion, including improved opportunities and facilities for women and girls in sport, and has mentored emerging women leaders in local government. Her commitment to community extends beyond the Council chamber. Cr McAulay is a long-standing CFA volunteer and emergency management advocate and has served for several years on the Municipal EmergencyManagementPlanningCommittee.
“I really was quite blown away. To know that people took the time to reflect on my contribution, put pen to paper and nominate me means more to me than I can adequately express,” Cr McAulay said. “I would also like to dedicate this acknowledgement to my beautiful mother-inlaw, Elizabeth Goss, who passed away earlier this year. “Elizabeth was always incredibly supportive and inspirational, and her encouragement, wisdom and belief in me meant more than she probably ever realised. “She took such a genuine interest in everything I did and was always there with her quiet encouragement and pride. “I know she would have been absolutely delighted by all of this — and probably just as excited as I am. “I wish very much that I could have shared this moment with her, but I feel enormously grateful to carry her love, strength and influence with me. This one is for you, Elizabeth. “Local government and community service have been such an important and rewarding part of my life. “For me, it has always been about people — listening, advocating, bringing people together, helping communities find their voice and doing whatever I can to make a positive difference.
Fortunate
“That becomes even more important during the difficult times, when our communities need people around them who will listen, understand and simply be there. “I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside so many wonderful Councillors, Council staff, volunteers, community organisations and local people over the years. “Whatever I may have contributed has been made possible — and so much richer — because of the people around me and the communities who have trusted me to represent them. “I am particularly touched by the acknowledgement of mentoring other women in local government. “I have benefited enormously from the encouragement, friendship and wisdom of others throughout my own journey, and being able to offer that same encouragement to women finding their own voice and place in local government is something very close to my heart. “The legacy of Mary Rogers reminds us just how far women in local government have come, thanks to those courageous women who went before us — and also of our responsibility to keep opening doors, encouraging participation and supporting the women who will follow.
Privilage
“Congratulations also to all those recognised through this year’s Mary Rogers Awards. It was a privilege to share such a joyful celebration of women, leadership and community service with you. “Thank you again for this beautiful acknowledgement. I feel enormously grateful, very humbled, incredibly honoured — and, if I’m allowed to say it, just a little bit chuffed,” Cr McAulay said.
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● Cr Sandice McAulay
Ground upgrades ■ Two significant sports infrastructure projects are underway in Eltham, delivering improved playing conditions and greater resilience for local sporting clubs, schools and the broader community. Nillumbik Council has commenced the $1.22 million reconstruction of the Bridge St Sports Ground and the $598,028 drainage and irrigation upgrade works at Susan St Oval. The Bridge St reconstruction will transform the existing rugby field into a higherperforming surface capable of supporting increased training and match use.
Local People Nominate champions ■ Mitchell Shire Council is calling for nominations for the 2027 Australia Day Community Awards. Nominations are open in the following categories: Citizen of the Year. For individuals over 25 who have made significant contributions during the current year or over several years Young Citizen of the Year. For individuals aged 25 or under who have made a noteworthy contribution during the current year or over several years Community Event of the Year. For community organisations or groups who have staged a noteworthy event in the past year. Community Group of the Year. For groups who have provided exceptional service to the community over the current year or multiple years. Health and Wellbeing Award. For an individual or group who has enhanced health, wellbeing or resilience in the community. Sports and Recreation Award. For an individual or group who has contributed to community participation in active lifestyles, sports, recreation or physical activity. Arts Person of the Year. For those who have shown commitment and achievement in the arts and culture. Nominations close at 9am on Wednesday, November 4. Full details and nomination forms are available on the Australia Day Community Awards page at the Mitchell Shire Council website.
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Ward defends Rail Loop
Rod Basto, Horse Racing
■ Eltham MLA Vicki Ward has been at the centre of Parliamentary debate about the Suburban Rail Loop. Jess Wildon (Kew – Leader of the Opposition): My question is to the Minister for Public Transport. It was confirmed at PAEC that there is a total of $15.1 billion of capital expenditure provisioned for the Suburban Rail Loop over the forward estimates. Can the minister update the house on the revised figure over the forwards following the changes to the project announced today? Vicki Ward (Eltham – Minister for Public Transport, Minister for Creative Industries): I thank the member for the question – John Mullahy interjected. Vicki Ward: which was indeed a Dorothy Dixer, member for Glen Waverley. I welcome their interest in this amazing project – orbital rail – which will transform our city. While this government is making sure that every single dollar invested in this project is invested wisely and well and that this project will continue addressing the – James Newbury: On a point of order, Speaker, on relevance, this question asked for just one figure. Members interjecting. The Speaker: Order! Member for Broadmeadows, you are warned. The minister was being relevant. Vicki Ward: This is a great project. This Premier has gone through it. We have looked to make sure that every dollar is spent well and wisely. As the Premier ad-
● Vicki Ward, Eltham MLA
vised today, we have saved a billion dollars and will look to save a billion more on this project, because unlike those opposite we are not here for waste. They will waste taxpayers money by shutting this project down. James Newbury: On a point of order, Speaker, the minister is debating the question. In fact the minister has not even come to the question. The Speaker The minister has concluded her answer. Jess Wilson (Kew – Leader of the Opposition): How can Victorians believe the Premier has saved them $2 billion when his own minister cannot identify a single dollar removed from the forward estimates? Vicki Ward (Eltham – Minister for Public Transport, Minister for Creative Industries): It is very clear that that question actually does not relate to my answer at all and barely relates to the first question. We have made it very clear where we have found savings and that we will conduct a technical review to find even more.
Dental clinics Celebrating 57 years in local media
■ Bundoora MLA Colin Brooks says that s re-elected Carroll Labor Government will open 10 free public dental clinics across the state, giving adults and children access to free dental care every day, including an annual check-up. When fully up and running, these clinics will treat more than 100,000 Victorians a year, Mr Brooks claims.
Editor: Ash Long Features Editor: Peter Mac Columnists: Len Baker, Rod Basto, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Rob Foenander, Peter Kemp, Aaron Rourke, Cheryl Threadgold, Julie Houghton, Kevin Trask Honorary Reviewers: Juliet Charles, Sherryn Danaher, Linda Hartley, Lyn Hurst, Kathryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Graeme McCoubrie, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Peter Murphy, Lucy Nicolson, Jill Page, Elizabeth Semmel Logistics: Tim Granvillani, Erica Koldinsky, Tyler Sandiford
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Local Briefs Findon Rd promise
Witness appeal ■ Officers from Casey Highway Patrol are appealing for witnesses and dash cam footage following a multi-vehicle collision in Berwick on Saturday morning (Sep. 5). Police attended the Princes Fwy scene following multiple calls to Triple Zero (000) about an erratic driver who was allegedly speeding and weaving across lanes about 11am. It is understood the 2025 white Peugeot merged into the inbound emergency lane before it crashed into a barrier. The Peugeot then struck a nearby Ford Focus, as well as a Mazda CX9. A 72-year-old woman, who was the passenger in the Ford Focus, was transported to hospital where she remains with critical injuries. The 83-year-old driver of the Ford, as well as the occupants of the Mazda, were luckily uninjured. Police will allege the driver of the Peugeot, a 34-year-old man, was seen driving erratically in the lead up to the incident. It is understood the man was seen trying to collect his belongings from the damaged car before passersby stopped him as he attempted to leave the scene. Officers interviewed the Pascoe Vale man, who has since been released pending further enquiries as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Investigators are especially keen to speak with anyone with dash cam vision of the Peugeot prior to the collision, as well as anyone with vision of the incident itself. Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dash cam vision or information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Tyers serious assault ■ Three people have sustained significant injuries after being assaulted by a man in Tyers on Saturday afternoon (Sep. 5). The offender, who is known to the victims, attended a Cowies Rd address about 12.30pm. Police have been told the man assaulted an elderly man and woman, along with another man at the address while armed with what’s believed to be an axe. He fled the address and the victims were able to call emergency services for help. The elderly male and second man are expected to be airlifted to hospital in Melbourne with life-threatening injuries. The elderly woman also sustained critical injuries and was taken to hospital. A large-scale search is currently underway in the area to locate the offender, who is believed to have left the property on foot. The man, aged in his 50s, was last seen wearing a black and mustard coloured jacket and carrying a black backpack. He may be armed with an axe and handsaw. Anyone who sees the offender should not approach the man and immediately contact Triple Zero (000).
Forest Hill fatality ■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal collision in Forest Hill on Saturday morning (Sep. 5). Emergency services were called to reports of a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Springvale and Canterbury Rds shortly before 11.30am. A 72-year-old female backseat passenger, from Boronia, was declared deceased at the scene. The 52-year-old female driver, from Boronia, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. A 14-year-old male front-seat passenger, from Boronia, was also taken to hospital with minor injuries. The 41-year-old male driver of the second vehicle, from Clayton, was uninjured while his 21-year-old female passenger, from Parkdale, was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
Double the limit ■ A 19-year-old man was detected driving at more than 100-kmh through Ballarat’s suburban streets on Friday night (Sep. 4). A speeding Toyota Kluger drew the attention of Ballarat Highway Patrol members travelling along Sturt St, near the intersection of Drummond St, about 11.20pm.
■ The City of Whittlesea has welcomed a $270 million funding commitment from the Labor Party to upgrade Findon Rd through to Epping. The Labor Party announced that, if reelected, it will upgrade 3.6km of Findon Rd. The election promise, made by Premier Ben Carroll, committed to doubling the lanes, upgrading key intersections and cutting congestion. Whittlesea Council has long advocated for the upgrade of Findon Rd, with the project included as a top priority in its Advocacy Prospectus 2025–29. Findon Rd crosses the City of Whittlesea and provides an important link between the Hume Fwy and Plenty Rd. It carries 23,000 vehicles each day and modelling suggests it will carry 35,000 vehicles a day by 2031. “This project will ensure Findon Rd becomes a continuous east-west link with significantly increased capacity,” said a Council representative. “Upgrading the road will improve safety, reduce congestion and make it easier for people to access local services and facilities.” City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lawrie Cox, said: “Findon Road plays a pivotal role in connecting our community to employment, education and essential services. “This upgrade is critical to ensuring we keep pace with rapid local population growth. Investment now will increase capacity and connectivity, ease future congestion, and create long-term benefits for residents, visitors and businesses. “We’ve heard our community’s concerns and advocated strongly for Findon Rd to be upgraded for many years. “We are pleased the Victorian Labor Party has committed to upgrading Findon Rd if they are re-elected in November,” Cr Cox said.
New Youth Mayor ■ Nillumbik has a new Youth Mayor and Youth Deputy Mayor following their election. Aashini Rastogi, 17, was elected Youth Mayor and Tahlia Edmonds, 22, was elected Deputy Mayor of the Nillumbik Youth Council. The new Youth Mayor and Deputy Mayor were due to welcome new members Elliot Thomas, Jarran Nolan, Holly Webb, Geneva Dunn and Lara Akdeniz at the Youth Council meeting on September 7. They join current Youth Councillors Alexandra Laidlaw, Ange Gartland, Anushka Gupta, Eleanor Risley, Gianna Andreoli, Jess Brown, Rose Jarvis and Samuel Lochner. Youth Mayor Aashini Rastogi, the 2025 Nillumbik Young Citizen of the Year, said she was honoured to be elected to the role and looked forward to representing the voices of young people across the Shire. "When I first joined Youth Council, I walked into the room knowing no one. Now I look forward to every meeting because of the connections we've built and the difference we can make together," Aashini said. Youth Deputy Mayor Tahlia Edmonds, who served as Youth Mayor in 2025, said she was proud of what the Youth Council had achieved over the past year and is excited to continue supporting young people in Nillumbik. "This role has taught me that leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about listening, bringing people together and turning ideas into action," Tahlia said. Nillumbik Mayor Cr Naomi Joiner congratulated Aashini and Tahlia on their election. "The Youth Council plays an important role in ensuring young people have a voice in local decision-making. I look forward to working with our new youth leaders and seeing the positive impact they will continue to make across Nillumbik." Deputy Mayor, Cr Kate McKay, Council's representative on the Youth Council, also congratulated all members and thanked them for their commitment to improving outcomes for young people. "The passion, creativity and leadership shown by our Youth Councillors is inspiring," Cr McKay said. "Youth Council gives young people the opportunity to contribute ideas, advocate for issues that matter to them and help shape the future of Nillumbik. I look forward to supporting the group as they deliver another exciting year of projects and initiatives."
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Council Rounds Spring Outdoors ■ The much-loved Spring Outdoors program is back for 2026 and once again delivered through a collaboration between Manningham, Banyule City and Nillumbik Shire Councils. This year’s program offers over 50 diverse activities throughout spring, from gardening with native plants to local bird counts. A key focus of this year’s Spring Outdoors program is supporting citizen science in Nillumbik. “Citizen scientists are everyday people who contribute valuable information about our environment by recording observations, such as counting birds in the backyard, taking photos of a platypus on a riverside walk or capturing frog calls,” said a Council representative. “Not only is it fun, but findings can help scientists and land managers better protect Nillumbik’s unique plant and animals. “Every sighting counts. Whether you spot common or threatened wildlife or even pest animals, observations support important conservation programs.” Nillumbik Mayor Cr Naomi Joiner encouraged locals to embark on citizen science journeys this Spring Outdoors. “Citizen science is just one more great reason to enjoy Nillumbik nature this spring. Recording your observations and letting us know what you see and hear in your backyard and beyond is a concrete way to make a difference.” “The more people who take part, the more we can understand about what’s happening right across Nillumbik.” During Spring Outdoors, join in for citizen science events during the Aussie Bird Count (October 19-25) and the Great Southern BioBlitz (November 27-30). Free Biodiversity in Backyards Kits can be borrowed. It includes a motion-triggered camera, as well as a songmeter to record bird calls and other wildlife sounds.
Vigil at Epping ■ A vigil was held last Sunday (Sep. 6) at Galada Community Centre, Epping, as the City of Whittlesea extends its deepest sympathies to everyone affected by the recent devastating floods and landslides in Nepal. “Our City is home to a large Nepali community who we know are grieving and anxiously waiting for news of loved ones,” said “It has become clearer the scale of the devastation to communities, homes and critical infrastructure, which has left thousands of people needing shelter, food, clean water and medical assistance. “Our thoughts are with all those impacted by these devastating events and we acknowledge the profound impact on people across our community.” The Whittlesea Interfaith Network invited the Nepalese community and the wider community to come together for a Vigil for Nepal in response to the recent tragic events affecting Nepal and surrounding areas.
Footbridge fixed ■ The final piece of Mansfield township's shared path network is now in place, with the completion of the Greenvale Lane Footbridge over Ford Creek. The new bridge closes a long-standing gap in the network, creating a continuous, safer route for pedestrians and cyclists. Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said he was thrilled to see the completion of the footbridge. "We love the idea of kids being able to hop on their bikes and ride around, the way a lot of us did growing up - and this bridge makes that safer and easier," Cr Rabie said. "We're an active community, and this is exactly the kind of connection that helps keep healthy habits alive for the long term. "This is a project that will have benefits for generations to come." The completed works provide a dedicated and safe crossing point over Ford Creek, reducing potential conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles and making it easier for all users to access local community spaces. The project supports Council's commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, improving community infrastructure and creating safer public spaces. The project is funded by the State Government through the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program, which is providing $214 million to make local roads safer across Victoria.
Local News
Enrol to vote in Kinglake Ward
■ Murrindindi Shire Council is encouraging Kinglake Ward residents to make sure they are enrolled to vote and that their details are up to date ahead of the upcoming by-election. The by-election will elect a new Councillor to represent Kinglake Ward following the resignation of former Cr Jodi Adams in August. The Victorian Electoral Commission will conduct the by-election, with the electoral roll closing at 4pm on Wednesday, September 23. Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher encouraged people eligible to vote in the byelection to make sure they are ready to have their say. “Having a local Councillor representing the interests and priorities of Kinglake Ward is incredibly important, and I encourage everyone who is eligible to participate in the byelection,” Cr Gallagher said. “The first step is to make sure you are enrolled and eligible to vote before the roll closes on September 23. I encourage people to visit the VEC website to check their eligibility and enrolment requirements. “Local government makes decisions about many of the services, facilities and issues that affect our communities every day, so this is an important opportunity to have your say on who represents Kinglake Ward. “To vote in the Kinglake Ward by-election, you need to be enrolled for Kinglake Ward. This includes eligible voters enrolled on the State electoral roll who live in Kinglake Ward. “Some people who own property in Kinglake Ward but live elsewhere may also be eligible to enrol and vote in the by-election. “Enrolment requirements vary depending on your circumstances. If you live in or own
property in Kinglake Ward, check your enrolment status and whether you need to take any action before the enrolment deadline. “You can do this by visiting the VEC website https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/voting/current-elections/murrindindi-shire-council-kinglake-wardby-election to check eligibility and enrolment requirements before the electoral roll closes at 4 pm on Wednesday, September 23. “The election will be conducted entirely by post. Ballot packs will start being mailed to enrolled voters from Monday, November 16, with voting closing at 6 pm on Friday, December 4. “People interested in standing as a candidate will have an opportunity to learn more about the election process, with a candidate information session scheduled for Wednesday, October 14. “Candidate nominations will open on Monday, October 19, and close on Tuesday, October 27. Key dates ■ September 23: Electoral roll closes at 4pm ■ October 14: Candidate information session ■ October 19: Candidate nominations open ■ October 27: Candidate nominations close ■ November 16: Mail-out of ballot packs begins ■ December 4: Voting closes at 6.00 pm ■ December 5: Election day ■ December 18: Indicative date for declaration of the result For more information about the Kinglake Ward by-election, including key dates and links to VEC information about enrolment and voting, visit Council’s Voting in the Kinglake Ward by- election webpage https:// www.murrindindi.vic.gov.au/Council/CouncilElections
Flood information circulated
● Cr Steve Rabie, Mansfield Mayor
■ Direct engagement on the Mansfield flood study is now coming to an end with all residents with properties potentially impacted by flooding having now received information. The findings of the study, undertaken by Mansfield Shire Council in collaboration with the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, will help the Council and the community better understand how flooding affects Mansfield township, a Shire representative said. “Council has directly contacted residents whose properties fall within existing floodprone areas as well as newly identified areas, holding drop-in information sessions and oneon-one conversations to discuss the findings of the study.” Mansfield Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said that the Council wanted to make sure residents heard the findings directly, in a way that gave them room to ask questions and understand what it meant for them. “We know flooding has been a concern in Mansfield township for some time. This study gives us the tools we need to prepare for a reality of life here in the best little shire,” he said. “The team at Council has worked diligently to have these conversations sensitively with the people affected by potential flooding.” “This study doesn’t change the existing risk of flooding in Mansfield. It gives us the accurate information we need to plan properly.”
Local Environment Active season ahead
● Chris Hardman
■ Chris Hardman, Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer, says says the state is facing one of its warmest and driest spring outlooks in some time, increasing the risk of an earlier and more active fire season across parts of the state. “For Forest Fire Management Victoria, preparing for bushfires is a year-round job,” Mr Hardman said. “Across parks and forests, our crews work every day to reduce bushfire risk through fuel management, preparedness activities and maintaining the capability to respond quickly when fires occur. “This year's seasonal outlook reinforces why that work is so important. “Throughout spring, we will continue working with our emergency management partners to monitor conditions and undertake fuel management and preparedness activities in the lead-up to summer. “We are also preparing our people and equipment for the season ahead so we can respond quickly when and where bushfires occur. “With more than 1800 frontline personnel, specialist emergency management staff, firefighting vehicles, heavy machinery and a world-class aerial firefighting fleet, our focus is on detecting, responding to and containing bushfires as quickly as possible to minimise impacts and help keep communities safe. “Everyone has a role to play in preparing for the season ahead. Victorians can do their part by having a bushfire plan, downloading the VicEmergency app and staying up to date with Fire Danger Ratings. “If you're visiting parks and state forests, please take extra care with campfires and always know and follow the rules. “Together, we can all play a part in reducing bushfire risk and helping keep Victorian communities safe,” Mr Hardman said.
Regional Round-Up Newest citizens ■ Strathbogie Shire welcomed 16 new Australian citizens at a special citizenship ceremony in Euroa. Surrounded by family, friends and community members, the newest citizens took the Australian Citizenship Pledge and officially became Australian citizens. “Representing countries from around the world, they bring diverse experiences, cultures and perspectives that help strengthen the vibrant and welcoming community we are proud to call home,” a Council representative said.
Insurance chats ■ The Insurance Council of Australia returns to Euroa Recovery Hub at 9am-3pm on Thursday September 17, 9am-3pm for face-to-face consultations for fire-impacted residents. Book an appointment now or visit on the day. Registrations are strongly recommended.
Page 14 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026
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Local People Vale Syd Savage ■ The latest Murrindindi Shire Council meeting has heard as tribute to local legend, Syd Savage, who sadly passed away on August 11. “My thoughts are with Syd's wife of 65 years, Chris, along with his children, grandchildren, and all those who knew and loved him during this difficult time,” said cr Anita Carr. “Syd was a proud local through and through. Born at Alexandra Hospital in 1940, he spent most of his 86 years living in and contributing to the area he loved. “His funeral was held at the Eildon Pondage Lions Rotunda, a fitting location given that the rotunda was one of his passion projects in the late 1990s. “During the service, Syd's family thanked the staff at Alexandra District Health for their care and support of Syd in his final weeks and days. “Many stories were shared by family and friends with many laughs had throughout the service – it was a true celebration of Syd’s life. “The rain held off just long enough for the hundreds of people in attendance to give Syd a fitting farewell, with a special guard of honour and a heartfelt round of applause as he made his final journey from the rotunda. “Returning to the significance of the rotunda, Syd once visited a small country town which featured a beautiful rotunda. Inspired by what he saw, he returned home with a vision to create something similar for Eildon. “Sometime later, while walking along the pondage, Syd came across two people using wheelchairs, one of whom had become bogged. After helping them get safely on their way, he recognised the need for better access to the water and began developing another idea, this time for an accessible fishing pier. “Determined to turn his vision into reality, Syd worked tirelessly along side others to bring these projects to life. “Through his persistence and passion for the community, the rotunda and all-abilities fishing pier were constructed, creating lasting amenities that allow residents and visitors of all abilities to enjoy the beauty of the Eildon Pondage. His legacy continues to be enjoyed by countless people every day. “As a founding member of the Eildon Lions Club, Syd made an enormous contribution to our community in so many ways. “It was particularly special to see him and fellow Lions members celebrate the Club's 50th anniversary last year, where he and wife Chris were honoured with hand-painted portraits in recognition of their many years of service before proudly cutting the anniversary cake together. “Known for his dedication, community spirit, and willingness to lend a hand, Syd was a true local icon whose impact will be felt for generations to come. “His legacy can be seen not only in the projects he helped create, but also in the countless lives he touched through his generosity, leadership, and commitment to making Eildon and the world a better place. “Syd will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by many across Eildon and the surrounding district. “Our community is richer for Syd's contribution and service. Vale Syd,” Cr Carr said.
Local Briefs $1.6m bridge opens ■ A major new pedestrian and cycling bridge has opened at Stockland's Cloverton community. Delivered through a partnership between Stockland, Hume City Council, the City of Whittlesea and the State Government, the $1.6 million Toyon Road Pedestrian Cycle Bridge is an important piece of infrastructure connecting communities across two local government areas in one of Australia's fastest-growing regions. Designed for pedestrians, cyclists and people using mobility devices, the bridge provides a vital link for more than 11,000 Cloverton residents and offers a safer, more convenient way to access key destinations across the community. Located on Toyon Road, the bridge provides a direct, traffic-free link to Donnybrook Station, as well as local schools, parks, playgrounds, the Kallo town centre and community facilities.
The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - Page 15
Local News
$15m bill for fire recovery
● Livia Bonazzi, Shire CEO
■ Murrindindi Council has incurred more than $15 million in recovery expenditure since January, mainly tree cleanup and emergency repairs, CEOLivia Bonazzi told the latest Shire meeting. “Significant more funding [is] yet to be secured to support ongoing recovery works, infrastructure restoration and community support,” Ms Bonazzi said. “The State-supported property clean-up program is now well advanced for those who have registered and were deemed eligible. “Homes Victoria is progressing temporary accommodation solutions for eligible residents. “Currently there are no delays within Council's planning, building or environmental health functions for bushfire-related approvals. “The firewood program continues to provide practical benefits for residents while supporting recovery works, with thousands of cubic metres of timber processed and made available to the community. “We have also completed the majority of roadside tree works identified following the fires, improving safety across the road network and contributing timber to the firewood program,” Ms Bonazzi said.
Whittlesea Council crisis as told by Mill Park MP ■ Mill Park MLA lily D’Ambrosio has told her version of the Whittlesea Council crisis to State Parliament. “I do want to go to issues that occurred in the City of Whittlesea. Sadly, the recent history of the City of Whittlesea has seen the council dismissed after an investigation and report by Yehudi Blacher, a well-regarded senior public servant who was recently retired at that point,” Ms D’Ambrosio said. “The council was dismissed for about four years in late 2020. Democracy was restored, if you like, as part of the regular council elections that were held in October 2024. “During that time the work of the commissioners was pretty thorough to ensure that they were able to get the council administration to a point where ratepayers and residents were confidently able to vote and see a new group of people come in in October 2024. “However, sometimes individuals themselves can foul the nest, if I may say that. Unfortunately we had a situation where, as a result of those elections, a mayor was appointed by the councillors by the name of Cr Aidan McLindon, who within a very, very short period of time decided that he was best off to represent the good people of Werribee at the time from the position of mayor and councillor in the outer northern suburbs of Melbourne. “That did not go down very well at all with the local community – a community who had only a few months before then actually elected a new batch of councillors with a lot of promise from this particular councillor and mayor. “:The behaviour of this mayor knew no rhyme or reason. He was a person who put himself first and thought that he could very much plug into what was going on in at Werribee. “We then had a situation where the councillors with the laws that existed then were able to and did in fact pass a unanimous motion of no confidence in the mayor. “I really want to commend each and every one of them, from a whole variety of political persuasions, who understood the gravity of the situation that they were faced with. “What happened after that, of course, was that another review was done – a commission of inquiry yet again into Whittlesea. “What was found and reported to the Minister for Local Government was that some very serious problems and behaviours had occurred. “Further reforms were accepted by way of recommendations to the government, and they are contained in this bill. “Perhaps if I can just go to those particular matters, the laws that were somewhat deficient are now going to be addressed. For example, the bill that we have in front of us enables a council to declare vacant the office of the mayor or deputy mayor where that person was elected for a one-year term, and that is to deal with the very problems that we have seen.
● Lily D’Ambrosio, Mill Park MLA “This reform gives councils that clarity and flexibility in being able to manage leadership positions when confidence has broken down. “I say this advisedly: you had a unanimous vote of no confidence by all of the remaining councillors who passed judgement on one person who was absolutely bringing the City of Whittlesea and its ratepayers into disrepute. “They had very limited ways of being able to manage the mayor and the conduct of the mayor, which very clearly blurred the roles and mixed up the loyalties, if you like, of the mayor at the time. “I am pleased that the government has introduced these reforms that strengthen local government by supporting continuity and proper governance arrangements and clarify the effect of a councillor being stood down under the act. “That continues on throughout this bill. But I do sound a cautionary note that, with the acceptance of the commission of inquiry by this government, a monitor was put back into the City of Whittlesea and they are under notice. “Every single one of them is under notice and under watch until at least, I would say, the end of this year. I certainly want to comment on the fact that the councillors and the administration seem to be working more clearly within what is expected in terms of the scope of transparency, good governance and ethical behaviour. “That is squarely about representing the interests of local ratepayers and not potential voters on the other side of Melbourne, which is probably about 50 kilometres away. “It is very important for the community for us to have delivered this,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
Local Briefs Plan for recovery ■ Murrindindi Shire Council is inviting local people to help shape the next phase of recovery by providing feedback on the Draft Murrindindi Municipal Recovery Plan for the January 2026 Bushfires. Feedback closes on Thursday, September 17. “Recovery began immediately after the fires and has continued since. Communities, volunteers, local halls and recovery hubs, Council, government agencies and service providers have worked together to support affected people and restore access to roads and properties, reopen key community facilities and provide practical recovery assistance,” said a Council representative. “The draft Plan builds on this work and reflects feedback gathered through recovery hubs, community meetings, recovery groups and direct engagement with affected residents over recent months. It also serves as a public record of the impacts of the January 2026 fires and provides a framework for medium and longer-term recovery across the Shire. “It includes actions for people and wellbeing, buildings and infrastructure, agriculture, business and the visitor economy, environment and biodiversity, Aboriginal culture and healing, and communication and advocacy. “The January fires caused deep and lasting impacts across Murrindindi Shire. One person lost his life, around 1600 private properties were affected, and 217 homes were destroyed. Farms, livestock, wildlife, businesses, roads, bridges, the Great Victorian Rail Trail and the natural environment were also lost or severely damaged.” Murrindindi Mayor Cr Damien Gallagher said the draft Plan was an important opportunity to ensure the longer-term recovery effort reflects community priorities. “Recovery did not start with this Plan and it will not end with it. An enormous amount of recovery work has taken place since January, led by fire-affected communities, volunteers, Council, agencies and recovery partners. “This Plan is about listening carefully to what people have lived through, what they are still carrying, and what practical support is needed now and into the future,” Cr Gallagher said. Murrindindi Council is asking people to check whether the Plan reflects their priorities, local needs and practical barriers. Feedback can be as detailed or as simple as people choose. The Plan proposes that the Murrindindi Municipal Recovery Committee, which currently includes a range of government agencies, be expanded to include six community representatives. These representatives will be appointed through an Expression of Interest process and will provide a link between the community and Council. The Plan also proposes regular updates on recovery actions at quarterly Council meetings. Local people can continue to contact their local Councillor with any concerns or feedback about recovery efforts. “Community representatives and local recovery groups will help us understand whether actions are making a practical difference, identify emerging needs and adjust our approach as circumstances change,” said Cr Gallagher. Feedback can be provided online, at pop-ups, through established community groups across the fire-impacted area, or by attending online information sessions: ■ Yea Library, September 10, 9.30am – 12.30pm ■ Kinglake Library, September 15, 1pm – 4pm ■ Online sessions on September 9, 1pm – 2pm and 6pm – 7pm. Printed copies of the Plan and printed feedback forms will also be available at the Yea and Alexandra Council offices. Cr Gallagher said Council understood that providing feedback may be difficult for some people, particularly where the fires continue to affect daily life. “Some people may want to share a lot, and others may only want to tell us one thing that would make a difference. Both are valuable,” Cr Gallagher said. “The most important thing is that community members are heard respectfully, and that their feedback helps guide recovery decisions, advocacy and communication in the months and years ahead.” The Council will consider all feedback before the final Plan is presented to a meeting later this year.
Page 16 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026
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Whittlesea District-Kinglake Whittlesea, Kinglake, Doreen, Donnybrook, Humevale, Kinglake, Kinglake West, Mernda, Pheasant Creek, South Morang, Wollert and Yan Yean.
Safer roads ■ The City of Whittlesea is inviting residents to have their say on the draft Road Safety Plan 2026–2036 and help shape a safer future. The draft Road Safety Plan provides strategic direction for improving road safety over the next 10 years.
Whittlesea-Kinglake
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■ Scullin MHR Andrew Giles opened refurbished student amenities at Findon Primary School. The refurbishment provides the school with modern facilities, ensuring students’ health and safety requirements are met. The project involved a complete refurbishment of four student toilet blocks. The project was delivered with the Federal Government’s funding of $494,693 through the Schools Upgrade Fund Round 2, with additional funds coming from Findon Primary School. Mr Giles said: “This project is the result of a lot of hard work and strong advocacy from the Findon Primary School community, and it will make a real difference for students every day. “When I visited Findon Primary School in 2024, students and staff spoke directly about
the need for modern, accessible amenities. “I was proud to work alongside the school community to advocate for this upgrade, and I'm pleased that the Albanese Government has been able to support its delivery. “Every student deserves access to safe, modern and inclusive learning environments. Investments like this help ensure that children in our community have the facilities they need to learn, grow and thrive. “The Albanese Government is committed to strengthening local schools because we know that giving young people the best possible start in life begins with investing in the places where they learn. “That's why we're continuing to support school communities across Melbourne's north with the infrastructure they need to help every student reach their potential.”
HOON DRIVERS IN YAN YEAN ■ Northern Victoria MLC Wendy Lovell and Yan Yean’s Liberal candidate Amanda Dow are calling for more police to tackle dangerous hoon driving in the Yan Yean electorate. Ms Dow has been speaking to residents near Hazel Glen Drive and Yan Yean Rd who are concerned about the noise, smoke, and danger on the roads caused by reckless hoon drivers. Ms Lovell has heard from constituents who live near Upper Plenty and shared video footage of large gatherings taking place after midnight where drivers race and do burnouts that frighten neighbours and keep them awake at night. Residents report that the gatherings continue despite notifying the police many times, and feel deeply disappointed with the state Labor Government’s failure to effectively tackle this issue, she said. “Under Labor, police stations in the Whittlesea Police Service Area are operating at only 40-60 per cent of their staffing allocation, which leaves officers struggling to adequately address the problem.” Ms Lovell spoke in parliament and asked the Minister for Police to allocate more police officers to the Whittlesea PSA to provide intensified law enforcement of dangerous hoon drivers in the area. “Residents in the Yan Yean electorate have had enough of hoon drivers who gather
■ The Federal GovernmentGovernment is investing $1.4 million to support early childhood education and care services across five services in Scullin. Through Round 5 of the Community Child Care Fund Sustainability and Capital Support program, grants will be provided over three years from 2026–27 to 2028–29. Scullin MHR Andrew Giles last week visited Bubup Wilam Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, which is receiving $600,000 in funding to help more local children get a great start in life. The Government extended the grants from two years to three, giving providers greater certainty to plan for the future. Minister for Early Childhood Education Jess Walsh said: “Communities across Australia don’t all look the same, and neither should the early learning services that support them. “Around two-thirds of the services receiving these grants are in regional, rural and remote Australia, reflecting our commitment to supporting children and families wherever they live. “We want more children in more places to have the benefits of quality early learning.” Mr Giles said: “As the northern suburbs continue to grow, local families need access to quality early learning and care, close to home.” “This funding builds on our work to make early learning more accessible and affordable – from delivering a 15 per cent pay rise for early childhood educators to introducing the 3 Day Guarantee. It means more families in Melbourne’s north can access the care their children need.” Whittlesea Family Day Care Scheme, South Morang. $210,000. Thomastown West PS TheirCare, $210,000. Montessori Beginnings Thomastown, $262,053.08 Bubup Wilam Aboriginal Child and Family Centre Incorporated, Thomastown. $600,000.
TOOLANGI
Council pays visit ■ Murrindindi Council paid a visit to Toolangi on July 29. for a community meeting, Cr Paul Hildebrand told the Shire meetin g last week. “There was a good turnout, with residents taking the opportunity to raise a number of local concerns and issues. “These community meetings are important, as they give Councillors and Council staff the opportunity to listen directly to residents and better understand what matters to each community.”
NILLUMBIK
Award winners
● Amanda Dow, Yan Yean candidate late at night to race and terrorise local residents with loud burnouts. “The Minister for Police must allocate more police officers to Whittlesea PSA so they can tackle dangerous hoon drivers in the area.” Ms Dow said: “Residents have told me that hooning can begin as early as 6am weekdays on Hazel Glen Drive.
“With the amount of students that walk to and from school, it is becoming a real safety concern trying to cross the road and not get hit by hoons on scooters and motorbikes”. “Only the Liberals have a real plan for community safety. “We will hire 3000 more police and enforce tougher consequences for criminal offenders,” Ms Dow said.
■ Volunteer Award winner Sabi Buehler was recognised at the Nillumbik Community Awards for her decades of service to the community through education, storytelling and lifelong learning. As founding president of Nillumbik U3A and the driving force behind the Nillumbik Festival of Stories, she has helped create spaces for people to share experiences and build connections. The Rotary Club of Diamond Creek received the Community Group Award for more than 30 years of supporting local residents through initiatives including the Diamond Creek Rotary Town Fair, Food Pantry and partnerships with community organisations across the Shire. Young Citizen Award winner Esme Johnson was recognised for her commitment to environmental conservation and youth leadership. Other category winners included Eltham Jazz, Food & Wine Festival Committee (Arts, Culture and Heritage), Jennifer Johnsen (Diversity and Inclusion), Nillumbik Gardens for Wildlife (Environment and Sustainability) and First Nations Friday creators Keira de Hoog and David Kerrigan (Reconciliation).
The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - Page 17
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The Yea Paper Devlin's Bridge, Flowerdale, Glenburn, Highlands, Homewood, Kerrisdale, Killingworth, Limestone, Molesworth, Murrindindi, Yea
Yea District Briefs Local plan approved
Structure plan preserves charm
■ Murrindindi Shire Council last week approved the Development Plan for 6489 Melba Highway, Yea, in accordance with the Development Plan Overlay in the Murrindindi Planning Scheme. The development plan proposed includes the construction of a new internal road and will provide up to 22 lots. The Development Plan application has been advertised to adjoining landowners and relevant referral authorities. External agencies have provided general comments for inclusion in the Development Plan. No written submissions were received from adjoining landowners.
Refusal at Glenburn ■ Crs Sandice McAulay and Sue Carpenter combined last week to propose that a planning permit be refused for a two lot subdivision (house lot excision), use and development of land for a dwelling and removal of native vegetation at 30 Malaraway Road, Glenburn. Reasons were given that: ■ The proposal fails to meet the objective a clause of the Murrindindi Planning Scheme, which seeks to limit house lot excision ■ The proposal does not meet the relevant objectives of clauses of the Murrindindi Planning Scheme as the proposal will result in excessive vegetation losses with limited to no environmental benefit. ■ The application fails to meet the objective of a clause as the proposed dwelling and additional lot in an area of high bushfire risk ■ The application is inconsistent with the purpose and decision guidelines of the Farming Zone.
● Cr Sue Carpenter
No suburbs here ■ Yea’s local Councillor, Sue Carpenter, said: “We do not want to become a suburb of Melbourne. We want to retain and protect our unique rural charm, whilst having a thriving population that can be supported by our GP's, hospitals, schools etc. The Yea Structure Plan and work in Alexandra have demonstrated that there is enough community infrastructure (ovals, schools, etc) to sustain growth and commercial land for retail, jobs, etc.”
■ The Yea Structure Plan clearly sets out how Yea can grow while retaining its charm in the future, Cr Sue Carpenter told last week’s Murrindindi Shire Council meeting. Future growth opportunities for housing, employment, services and movement are foreshadowed, she said. “The Planning Scheme review has been completed and endorsed with several minor changes to align with State Policy. “This sets a pathway of Strategic planning work to support the future growth and sustainability of our wonderful shire. “It provides confidence with an independent report on the Statutory planning service outperforming similar Councils across Victoria and ahead of the State average. “For a small Shire that has been impacted by fires and floods it is great to see that the team are so responsive and supportive. “We have also endorsed a development plan for land on the east side of Yea, which will unlock this potential in an organized and structured way as we welcome more families. “Our future looks exciting. Recently, Council has approved a development plan in Alexandra unlocking growth opportunities across multiple properties to the east of the Hospital. “Residential Design Guidelines ensure that growth and development can be done in a sensitive way to protect our valued landscapes and charm. “As a Council we are also building homes in Eildon with support from the State for key workers. The team have secured external funding and support to undertake this valuable work, reducing the demand on our funds. “The future work identified in the planning scheme review will provide a framework for growth in local employment, homes, and growing our economic prosperity, all whilst protecting our unique charm and character.”
DINDI BEES Charlie Nancarrow The Honey Bank with Dindi Bee Supplies 34B High St, Yea. Phone: 0413 627 194 9696 6096
The Alex Paper Acheron, Alexandra, Buxton, Cathkin, Crystal Creek, Devil's River, Eildon, Fawcett, Kanumbra, Koriella, Maintongoon, Marysville, Nabethong, Taggerty, Thornton, Whanregarwen and Yarck.
Alexandra Briefs Help for businesses ■ Murrindindi Council offers a pre-application process to help businesses understand and navigate any Council permits or approvals that may be required, Cr Sandice McAulay told last week’s Shire meeting. “Getting in touch early can help clarify the process and identify what you may need before you get too far down the track. “We also listen for common themes and emerging issues within our local business community. “Where we identify a need, we can arrange guest speakers or information sessions to provide practical, relevant advice. “For example, Council previously arranged for the Australian Taxation Office to provide information about changes affecting short-term accommodation. “The session helped demystify the changes and provided greater clarity around the associated tax implications. “Please register with our Economic Development team to stay up to date with business information, opportunities and future sessions,” Cr McAulay said.
A Good Spring ■ “The past month has again been dominated by the weather, with good rainfall across most of the Shire,” said Cr Paul Hildebrand. “The rain has brought plenty of runoff, with some minor flooding in parts of the district causing a few concerns. Lake Eildon’s storage level has continued to rise and is now around 57 per cent capacity. “While there is still plenty of mud and wet paddocks making travel around properties a little more difficult, the outlook is very positive, and it is shaping up to be a good spring,” Cr Hildebrand told Council.
Hospital’s ‘volunteer merger’ ■ Better access to care is the claim as Eastern Health and Alexandra District Health come together. Ingrid Stitt, Minister for Health, last Friday (Aug. 28) approved the voluntary merger after both health services declared it would deliver clear benefits for their communities. “The services will work as one system – making it easier for patients to access the care they need closer to home,” said a Government representative. “The merger will mean more specialist care available in Alexandra including more lowcomplexity surgery, a new dialysis service and improved access to diagnostics. “Patients will benefit from better co-ordination between the two services, making it easier to move through the health system – from referral through to treatment and recovery – and get the care they need closer to home. “The merger will also create more training, education and career opportunities for staff across both health services. “Alexandra District Health will retain its name and strong local identity, with local services continuing to care for the Alexandra community. “A new board with strong local representation will oversee the combined health service – ensuring the local community continues to have a strong voice in the delivery of local health services. Ms Stitt said: “Bringing Eastern Health and Alexandra District Health together means better connected care and more services close to home for people in Alexandra and across the north-east.” “This is about making the system work better for patients – less travel, better connections between services and more care available closer to home.”
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Page 18 - The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
Police Briefs Second teen charged over Maidstone fire ■ Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad have charged a second teenage boy as part of their investigation into a suspicious fire at a Maidstone gym. The 17-year-old boy from the Hume area was arrested on Friday morning (Sep. 4) and interviewed by police. He was subsequently charged with a range of arson offences and was to face a children’s court. Earlier in the week another 17-yearold boy from the Hume area was arrested and charged with arson, reckless conduct endangering life, possess anything with intent to destroy or damage property, handle stolen goods and theft. The arrests follow a large fire at a gym on Hampstead Rd in the early hours of August 6. A number of people were in the premises at the time of the fire, however o one was physically injured. The building sustained significant damage as a result of the fire. Detectives will allege the arson was a targeted attack.
INNER-CITY POLICE STATIONS TO CLOSE ■ Fitzroy and Collingwood Police Stations will be permanently closed to the public, under Premier Ben Carroll’s watch, claims Brad Battin, Shadow Minister for Police and Corrections. “In November 2023, 43 police stations across Victoria had their public counter hours reduced as a “temporary” measure in response to ongoing Victoria Police staff shortages, “ Mr Battin said. “Almost three years later, the Fitzroy and Collingwood police stations – which used to be open 24 hours to the public – will have their public counter permanently closed. “Independent Crime Statistics Agency data confirms crime against the person – including assaults, robbery and threatening behaviour – have increased 25.8 per cent and theft has surged more than 22 per cent in the City of Yarra over the past two years.” Mr Battin said: “Labor’s crime crisis continues to worsen as ‘temporary’ police stations closures become permanent. “Local communities deserve to have their local police station open.”
● Brad Battin, Shadow Minister
Crime Watch Home invasion arrest ■ Detectives from Geelong Crime Investigation Unit have arrested two men as part of an investigation into a home invasion in Belmont. It is understood two armed offenders gained access to a residential address on Oberon Drive about 9.10am on Friday (Sep. 4). When the pair entered the property a resident, who was not home at the time, was notified via a doorbell camera. After calling Triple Zero (000), the woman returned to her address and was confronted by two of the offenders. Two neighbours, who had noticed the offenders at the property, managed to restrain the two men until police arrived. Officers arrived on scene, and the pair were quickly taken into custody. Prior to police arrival, it is understood two females fled the scene in a grey Volkswagen, which was bearing stolen plates. The unoccupied Volkswagen was located a short time later by investigators on Tanunda Grove. The 32-year-old was not physically injured. A 27-year-old Norlane man and a 26year-old Altona North man will now be interviewed in relation to the incident.
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ENERGY COMPANIES SUSPENDED FROM SCHEME ARIES (March 21 - April 20) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 7-1-3-2 Lotto Numbers: 1-10-14-24-38-38 You may be overreacting to certain situations, and heightened emotions could create unnecessary complications. Try to remain calm and avoid becoming drawn into heavy discussions or conflicts. A balanced approach will help you achieve better outcomes. TAURUS (April 21 - May 20) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 8-7-9-1 Lotto Numbers: 9-22-29-33-43-44 Time may seem to be slipping away from you, leaving more to do than hours in the day. Do not allow others to undermine your confidence. Your health continues to improve, giving you the strength to meet your challenges with renewed energy. GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Lucky Colour: Olive Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2-4-1-5 Lotto Numbers: 11-16-19-27-35-45 Significant changes are approaching, and your organisational skills will be the key to navigating them successfully. This is also an excellent time to give your love life some extra attention. Small efforts now could bring lasting rewards. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 6-9-8-7 Lotto Numbers: 11-14-18-26-32-42 Meeting new and interesting people may help uncover talents you did not realise you possessed. Although your love life may feel a little quiet at present, pleasant surprises are waiting just around the corner. Keep an open mind and embrace new experiences. LEO (July 23 - August 22) Lucky Colour: Grey Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1-4-2-7 Lotto Numbers: 17-20-23-24-28-39 Remember that not everything is as it first appears. Separate fact from fiction before drawing conclusions. Honest conversations with loved ones will help clear up misunderstandings and strengthen important relationships. \VIRGO (August 23 - September 23) Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 5-8-7-6 Lotto Numbers: 4-11-12-25-28-39 Do not allow your opinions of certain people to spoil your social life. With time already in short supply, make the effort to relax and enjoy yourself. The work will still be there tomorrow, but opportunities for fun should not be overlooked. LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) Lucky Colour: Mauve Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 6-7-4-3 Lotto Numbers: 3-15-22-30-39-42 Before making important decisions, consider the advice of someone older and wiser. Their experience may help you avoid unnecessary problems. This is also a period of surprises, although not every development may be entirely welcome. SCORPIO (October 24 - November 22) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 5-7-4-9 Lotto Numbers: 2-5-23-29-38-45 Your thoughts may turn towards distant places or people rather than familiar surroundings. Existing friendships could deepen, and for some, a friendship may develop into romance. An old love may also unexpectedly reappear. SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 20) Lucky Colour: Purple Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 9-1-2-7 Lotto Numbers: 16-24-25-40-42-44 Better understanding with people in positions of authority is indicated. Confidence grows as you recognise your own abilities. This is an ideal time to embrace new adventures and step outside your usual routine. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19) Lucky Colour: Brown Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1-6-4-3 Lotto Numbers: 14-17-26-32-38-39 Although you may feel ready for action, unexpected events could trigger a chain of circumstances you would rather avoid. Careful planning and preparation will help minimise disruptions and keep you moving towards your goals. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 19) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 5-3-6-4 Lotto Numbers: 6-8-19-28-33-34 An unexpected opportunity for advancement could soon present itself, so be ready to embrace something new. You have every chance of achieving many of your ambitions during this favourable period. Make the most of every opportunity. PISCES (February 20 - March 20) Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 7-3-3-1 Lotto Numbers: 10-11-12-13-37-43 You may feel a little restless or unsettled during this period. Try not to direct your frustrations towards those closest to you. A little discretion and patience will help resolve the situation that has been occupying your thoughts.
■ The Essential Services Commission has cancelled the Victorian Energy Upgrades accreditation of two businesses for allegedly providing false information about their energy efficiency projects and breaching consumer protections. The VEU program is an energy efficiency program that helps Victorians cut their energy bills by supporting households and businesses to use energy more efficiently. Accredited businesses undertake energy efficiency upgrades that entitle them to create Victorian energy efficiency certificates, which they can then sell. Solar On Roof The Commission alleges Add On Services Pty Ltd (Solar On Roof) and contractors working on its behalf: ■ provided false information about upgrades to claim more certificates, including submitting a doctored photo as evidence of an upgrade ■ engaged in banned sales and marketing activity, including unsolicited telemarketing and doorknocking ■ failed to permanently decommission and remove old hot water systems during upgrades as claimed ■ failed to provide documentation to consumers following upgrades ■ provided false and misleading information about the VEU program on its website. The commission has: ■ cancelled Solar On Roof’s VEU accreditation ■ ordered the surrender of 1228 Victorian energy efficiency certificates, valued at over $100,000. The Commission immediately suspended Solar On Roof ’s accreditation in March after an initial investigation identified concerning conduct. This put an immediate stop to the alleged non-compliance so the Commission could investigate further and consider additional action. Re-Energi The commission alleges Renewable En-
75 Years Ago
From Our Files ● 1951
● Gerard Brody. Essential Services Commission Chair & Commissioner ergy Pty Ltd (Re-Energi) and contractors working on its behalf: ■ provided false information to support certificate claims for ineligible upgrades ■ engaged in banned sales and marketing activity ■ failed to collect required payments from consumers for multiple upgrades, including by reimbursing consumers for the payments made for their upgrades. The Commission has: ■ cancelled Re-Energi’s accreditation ■ ordered the surrender of 279 Victorian energy efficiency certificates, valued at around $23,000. The commission immediately suspended Re-Energi’s accreditation in March after an initial investigation identified concerning conduct. This put an immediate stop to the alleged non-compliance so the Commission could investigate further and consider additional action.
● The Argus. Date, 1951.
11th Hour Luck By Jack Cannon ■ Five o'clock yesterday afternoon was a crucial hour for half forward flankers Ted Whitten and Jack Jones who will play in the League semi-final today. For Ted Whitten it was one of the happiest hours of his short life and for Jack Jones it was one of the most painful. Teen-age Ted had been gloomy all the week because he thought he had no hope of getting leave from his Army unit at Puckapunyal to play for Footscray in the big game. "I had been told I would not get leave, so I wandered into the camp barber's shop to gel my hair cut," Ted said last night. 'The camp adjutant came in and said I had been granted a leave pass and had better hurry to catch the truck leaving for Melbourne. "I stagsered out of the shop and wandered in a daze to my room. My mates packed my bag, dressed me, and practiicallv carried me to the transport. "Boy, I'm happy. I'm afraid I'll wake up and find the whole thing is a dream but I won't be dreaming when I get on to the M.C.G.," Ted added
Share in estate ■ Thomas Langhorne Fleming would become the main beneficiary from the estate of his wife, Betty, a probate authority said tonight. A Criminal Court jury at Tamworth yesterday found Fleming not guilty of having murdered his wife with cyanide. Mrs. Fleming, 39, was a wealthy woman in her own right. She inherited from her father a share worth £20,000 in Roseneath, a New England property, and it was stated at the inquest into her death that she was negotiating to buy a larger share. On June 28, the day she died, she instructed a solici\tor to draw up a will bequeathing her interest in Roseneath and most of her other assets to her four hildren. The probate authority said tonight that these directions were invalid because she had not signed her actual will. As a result, her husband, as next of kin, would receive one-third of her estate, and the children the other two thirds. After' his acquittal last night Fleming said he in\tended to try to take his wife's place with his children.
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Great Destinations. Interesting Things To Do. Fascinating People To Meet.
Places To Go www.Places2Go.com.au
Travel Briefs Just You ■ After launching its dedicated solo travel product down under last year, specialist solo tour operator Just You is offering savings on 2026 tours, including Christmas in India and a Sri Lankan sojourn. Deals include savings of $400 on Just You's 13- day Spirit of India at Christmas tour, departing December 18, 2026. Now priced from $6399, the trip includes 11 nights’ accommodation with breakfast and dinner daily, plus some lunches, a Just You Holiday Director, local transport and porterage, and a guaranteed room for each traveller with no single supplement. The festive adventure includes a tour of Old Delhi, a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, a boat trip on the Ganges, the pink city of Jaipur, and game drives in Ranthambore
TASTES OF AFRICA SERIES LAUNCHES
■ RACV has cemented its position as one of Victoria's leading accommodation providers, securing multiple wins at the 2026 Victorian Accommodation Awards for Excellence across its properties and earning Hall of Fame recognition for RACV Torquay Resort.
Out bush ■ A bunkshojuse used in the 1960s and ‘70s as temporary accommodation for workers who built Copeton Dam has been refurbished for family and group bookings, and six new ‘pod cabins’ with stunning views over the dam have also been installed by Reflections. About 40kms south of Inverell on Kamilaroi Country in the New England region of New South Wales, Reflections Copeton Waters sits on the foreshore of the dam, a major sport and recreation hub for water sport enthusiasts and anglers chasing giant Murray Cod.
Border watch ■ In the latest development in regional tourism, award-winning Australian comedian and Albury-raised Geraldine Hickey has swapped the stage for a rather unexpected new role: tourism ambassador and tour operator for her hometown. As part of Albury Wodonga’s new summer tourism campaign, Geraldine takes two unsuspecting visitors on a very local tour – from paddling on the Murray and exploring the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk, to Wonga Wetlands, Albury’s skate park and a riverside finish at Gateway Island. Geraldine’s Hometown Tours video is available on Youtube.
Travel Briefs Multiple wins
● From left: Kauthar Abdula, Santilla Chingaipe, Rendah Haj. Photo: Nicole Cleary
■ Tastes of Africa , a 3 x 15minute series hosted by Santilla Chingaipe takes viewers to home kitchens and hidden eateries across Melbourne’s African-Australian community, launched on YouTube this week. The series will be available to global audiences on YouTube via distribution partner African Australian. The series follows Santilla Chingaipe’s vibrant, cross-cultural journey through Melbourne’s African food scene, where every bite is served with a story.
Guided by the wisdom of aunties who’ve carried recipes across oceans, and joined by younger African-Australian friends and chefs who are adapting traditions in bold and unexpected ways, Santilla dives into home kitchens and hidden eateries. Together, they explore the flavours of the continent; from Ghana’s waakye to umxhanxa from Zimbabwe. But this isn’t just about food, it’s about what food carries; the journeys of migration, the joy of survival, and memories - lots
and lots of memories! Through shared meals, intimate conversations, and plenty of laughter, Santilla uncovers how African food in Australia is not only thriving, but evolving; shaping new identities, new communities, and new ways of belonging. In the finale, Santilla returns to her own kitchen to host a celebratory feast featuring some of the dishes and memories gathered along the way. Blacksand Pictures was a recipient of Screen Australia’s Business Enterprise initiative in 2023.
Solo girls ■ Victorian women have revealed themselves to be the nation’s most keen to travel by themselves, with 22 per cent feeling that they are the only travel companion they require. Despite this, many are still keen to make friends along the way (88 per cent) but value the freedom and independence a solo trip can provide (52 per cent). The data is part of a nationally representative, first-of-its kind whitepaper, Reflections Holidays: Wander Woman Report, utilising independent research to provide insight.
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Places To Go
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Places To Go
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Places To Go
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
Bush Telegraph ‘Pause gas peipeline’ ■ Plans to drill a gas pipeline underneath the internationally significant wetlands on Port Phillip Bay should be halted in light of the impact H5N1 bird flu is having on birds that rely on the habitat, conservationists say. The Australian Conservation Foundation is calling on Victorian Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to intervene and stop multinational chemical and gas infrastructure company Vopak from proceeding with its drilling plans. “The Port Phillip Bay wetlands are a crucial feeding ground for dozens of species of migratory shorebirds and seabirds, including species that are being hit hard by bird flu,” said ACF Geelong group representative Lauren Dillon. “Victoria’s little penguins, which are already being killed by bird flu, forage across the central part of the bay where Vopak plans to construct its gas processing hub. “These wetlands are the most important winter habitat for the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot, which migrates every year between Tasmania and Victoria’s coast.” Many of the species that inhabit the wetland are considered to be at high risk from H5N1. “A bird sanctuary should not be put under extra stress during the bird flu outbreak,” Ms Dillon said.
BIRD FLU DOESN’T STOP AT THE BORDER ■ Hundreds of dead birds are piling up at Nelson in south-western Victoria while just three kilometres away South Australian crews are actively collecting carcasses, exposing serious questions about Victoria’s response to the growing H5 bird flu threat, says Emma Kealy, Shadow Minister for Agriculture. Nelson residents have reported hundreds of dead birds accumulating around the Glenelg River Estuary, part of the internationally significant Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Ramsar site. Local ecologists estimate at least 400 carcasses have accumulated around the river mouth, while South Australian authorities across the border have dedicated crews collecting and disposing of dead birds and humanely euthanising sick birds where appropriate. The Victorian Government has acknowledged that carcass removal will not occur everywhere and says it is prioritising areas of high visitation and public amenity. Ms Kealy said the stark difference between the responses on either side of the border demanded an explanation. “Birds and bird flu don’t stop at the South Australian border, but unfortunately state government competency does” Ms Kealy said.
● Emma Kealy, Shadow Minister
Whiparound Rural Aid helps ■ Thanks to the generosity of Rural Aid supporters, hundreds of farming families have continued receiving practical and emotional support as they rebuild. Rural Aid support between January 1 to June 30 has included: ■ Financial support to more than 300 families. ■ More than 4000 hay bales to help farmers feed livestock. ■ 114 water tanks to improve water resilience. ■ Nearly 10 million litres of drinking water for 437 farming families. Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the support delivered in the months following disaster was critical, as farmers worked through the long process of recovery. “Natural disasters can change a farming family’s life in a matter of hours, but recovery takes much longer,” Mr Warlters said. “Once the initial response is over, farmers are often left repairing fences, replacing damaged infrastructure, caring for livestock and working to get their businesses back on track. “The reality is that many farmers can feel isolated when they are facing these challenges. Rural Aid is there to remind them they are not alone, providing practical assistance, wellbeing support and a connection to people who understand what they are going through.”
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Victorian Rural News
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Victorian Rural News
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IS SUPER SYSTEM FAILING THE VULNERABLE?
■ Australia's superannuation system is at risk of disadvantaging vulnerable members, creating a gap between the legislated promise of dignity and the lived reality of retirement Australia's superannuation system holds more than $4.3 trillion in retirement savings, making it one of the world's largest pension systems. As millions of baby boomers transition into retirement, the industry faces its greatest test: supporting potentially vulnerable members through the most complex financial decisions of their lives. Yet cracks are appearing in the superannuation system's design and implementation, with regulators such as ASIC highlighting shortfalls in what is expected of superannuation funds and communication with members who may be more vulnerable. These include victims of elder abuse or those suffering from cognitive decline,
through to culturally diverse members or those who may be living in Indigenous or remote communities, according to UNSW Sydney experts who have studied structural gaps in the nation's retirement framework. Redefining vulnerability in Australia’s retirement system The traditional understanding of vulnerability in superannuation is far too narrow, and retirement circumstances vary dramatically from individual to individual, said Katja Hanewald, Associate Professor in the School of Risk and Actuarial Studies
at UNSW Business School. “People differ widely in wealth, health, and family situations and must navigate complex decisions as they enter and move through retirement,” explained A/Prof. Hanewald, who said that this complexity extends beyond simple demographics. Retirees, for example, need to coordinate superannuation with the Age Pension, aged care, or family transfers, while she noted that unexpected health shocks or cognitive decline can make these decisions exponentially harder. Scott Donald, Associate Professor in the
School of Private & Commercial Law at UNSW Law & Justice, also highlighted the vulnerability of superannuation fund members experiencing declining cognitive ability or practical autonomy. Some lacked the ability to use the internet or access online banking services, which he said creates barriers to managing their retirement savings. A/Prof. Donald identified other vulnerable groups that the system routinely overlooks. Significant categories included those working in the cash economy or casualised roles, or those living in Indigenous or remote communities. “These are people for whom the superannuation system does not work,” said A/ Prof. Donald, who previously worked in the funds management industry advising governments, superannuation funds, insurance companies and fund managers on investment strategy, governance and regulation.
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Home Sweet Home Check winter bills ■ The biggest power bill of the year could be about to hit your inbox Winter energy bills are arriving, and for many Australian households they will be among the largest bills they receive all year. Months of heating and longer periods spent indoors can make bills covering the coldest part of the year significantly more expensive. For many households, the usual response is simply to grimace and pay. Energy Rebate Check, a free service that checks which government energy rebates apply at any Australian postcode, says a large winter bill can also be the most useful bill to compare because it shows what a household consumes during its most expensive season. The service includes a free comparison tool built for exactly that job. The free service allows households to photograph an electricity bill and have artificial intelligence read the usage and rate information before checking it against more than 8000 energy plans from over 70 retailers. "The worst time to discover you are on the wrong plan is immediately after paying the biggest bill of the year on it," Energy Rebate Check founder Josh Liptak said. "Your winter bill is a free health check. It shows your real usage when demand is at its highest. Two minutes and a photograph of the bill can show whether your energy plan is contributing to the problem."
Bucking the trend ■ "Australia's residential building industry is bucking the national training trend after new figures reveal construction trade qualifications continue to grow despite an overall decline in VET enrolments," HIA Executive Director Future Workforce Mike Hermon said today. “New National Centre for Vocational Education Research data shows overall qualification enrolments fell by more than five per cent in 2025,” said Mr Hermon. “However, Architecture and Building was the only major field of education to record growth, with almost 14,000 additional enrolments, while Construction, Plumbing and Services and Electrotechnology qualifications also posted strong gains.”
‘Australia will build more homes despite policy changes, not because of them’ ■ “Despite recent changes to housing taxation and investment settings, HIA expects the number of homes commencing construction to continue to rise in both 2027 and 2028, albeit, slower than would have occurred,” said HIA Chief Economist, Tim Reardon. HIA released its Economic and Industry Outlook report. The report includes updated forecasts for new home building and renovations activity nationally and for each of the eight jurisdictions. “As outlined in the Federal Budget, increased taxes on established housing will reduce the supply of new homes, while the subsequent prohibition on SMSFs borrowing to invest in residential property will remove another source of new home finance. “These policies have interrupted an expansion in home building that was already underway. “They will not necessarily cause commencements to fall across Australia. “The effect is that Australia will build fewer homes than it otherwise would have. We anticipate that over the Housing Accord period Australia will fall 186,000 homes short of the 1.2 million homes target. “Population continues to grow, households continue to form at a rate faster than supply of new homes and Australia already has a significant shortage of homes. “HIA expects these structural forces to increasingly dominate the housing cycle and result in a return to positive home price grow from early 2027. “The increase in commencements should not, however, be interpreted as evidence that Australia's housing shortage is being resolved. “Rather, it is the shortage itself that will eventually generate the market conditions required to support more construction. “There is a fundamental difference between reducing the price of an established home and reducing the cost of delivering a new one.”
Home Affairs Rewiring Australia ■ Expanding the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme will turn more factories, schools and farm sheds into local power stations, says Rewiring Australia. This will cut nergy bills for local businesses and keeping more of the benefits of cheap solar within communities. “The Federal Government is extending the scheme from solar systems of up to 100 kilowatts to one megawatt, reducing the upfront cost of larger commercial installations by around 20 per cent,” said Rewiring Australia CEO Francis Vierboom. He said the reform allows communities to generate and use far more affordable electricity locally. “Every community has enormous roofs sitting above warehouses and shopping centres that could be producing cheap electricity,” Mr Vierboom said. “That power can be used locally to run machinery and refrigeration, electric vehicle chargers or other equipment and help slash costs for businesses and prop up local economies. “The Illawarra offers an early example of what this could look like, with work underway to establish an urban renewable energy zone linking local rooftop generation with nearby businesses and communities. “Now the scheme is expanding, communities across Australia will be able to generate more affordable energy close to where it is needed and reduce their reliance on distant generation and costly new infrastructure. “With families and businesses under pressure from high power bills, it’s great to see the Federal Government back reform that helps bring energy costs down and keeps more money and opportunity local,” Mr Vierboom said.
Faster land supply
● Tim Reardon
■ “The median price of residential land eased by just 0.4 per cent in the March quarter to $403,570, but remains 8.7 per cent higher than a year earlier, growing more than twice as fast as consumer prices and almost three times faster than wages,” stated HIA Senior Economist Tom Devitt. The HIA-Cotality Residential Land Report provides updated information on sales activity in 52 housing markets across Australia.
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Homemaker
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Homemaker
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Local Briefs Comms. concerns
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2026
RURAL AID CALLS ON AUSSIES TO LEND A HAND TO FARMERS
■ Rural Aid is calling on Australians to help carry the weight for farming families who are doing everything they can to keep going through disasters, adversity and the daily pressures of life on the land. Behind every farm is a family carrying more than most of us will ever see. They’re caring for livestock, working the land, supporting their families, keeping their businesses going and wondering what the next season will bring. For many, the weight is becoming too much. Drought, floods, fires, rising costs, financial pressure and the uncertainty of farming can take a heavy toll. Often, the hardest struggles are the ones no one sees. Farmers are used to getting on with the job. They don’t always ask for help. They shouldn’t have to face the toughest times alone. “A donation today can help make sure a farming family has someone in their corner when they need it most, providing practical support, a helping hand and hope when the road ahead feels overwhelming,” said a Rural Ais representative. For farmer Tanya Bertram, recent drought has had a devastating effect. Watching the creek on her 250-acre property run dry has meant facing the ongoing cost of keeping livestock fed.
● Tanya Bertram
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“We’ve still got possibly six months that we’re going to be hand feeding livestock. That’s quite costly,” Tanya said. Rural Aid provided Tanya’s family with hay and financial assistance, helping them keep their cattle going through the dry conditions. She has a simple message for anyone thinking of donating to Rural Aid. “This is where your food comes from,” Tanya said. “Our sheep go to markets, they go to the butchers, they go to your supermarkets.” “If you can support Rural Aid, please do. It means a lot to farming families knowing there’s someone there when things get tough.” For Chinchilla cattle farmer Les Mayer, a severe storm changed everything in the space of an hour, destroying his hay shed and damaging his home. “It happened within a space of an hour, a quite frightening hour and we haven’t been able to live at home since,” Les said. Months later, Les and his family are still working towards returning home. Rural Aid volunteers helped clear the property, taking a significant burden off the family. “It’s just a big relief that Rural Aid has come and done all this for us,” Les said. Les said supporting farmers means supporting every Australian.
■ Concerns were raised about the widespread disruption to critical infrastructure during the Longwood summer fires and the consequences for both emergency response and community safety. Parliamentary Inquiry Chairman Michael Galea said evidence was heard that failures in telecommunications and power networks significantly affected firefighting operations and residents' access to emergency information. "The resilience of critical infrastructure, particularly telecommunications networks, was a recurring theme throughout this inquiry," Mr Galea said. "Communities, firefighters and emergency services rely heavily on power and communications systems during emergencies. “When those systems fail, the impacts are felt across every aspect of emergency response and community safety,” Mr Galea said.
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UP TO $1760 FREE ADVERTISING FOR EACH LOCAL BUSINESS
Every local business throughout the bushfire affected region qualifies for up to $1760 worth of free advertising in The Phoenix newspaper. The offer is available throughout 2026, to all business owners in the municipalities of Mansfield, Murrindindi, Mitchell, Nillumbik, Strathbogie, Whittlesea and Yarra Ranges. The packages are totally free of cost. There is no obligation. The free advertising packages provide a free 40-word line listing, worth $40 each fortnight until December 9, 2026. That’s a free $40 ad in 23 print issues (plus more free ads in 22 further online issues on alternate weeks). Each advertisement is listed in The Phoenix Newspaper and also online at www.phoenixnews.com.au To apply for a free advertising package, complete the form online, or mail the coupon (below) to The Phoenix, PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. All advertising packages are subject to the approval of the Editor of The Phoenix. The free advertising packages are being privately funded by the owners of The Phoenix and its major supporters throughout metropolitan Melbourne, country Victoria, and interstate. Not a cent of tax - or public-money - is being used to fund this unprecedented promotion of local business. The Phoenix is operated by Local Media Pty Ltd of Eltham, publishers of The Local Paper and the Melbourne Observer.
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www.PhoenixNews.com.au A Community Service Project By Local Media Pty Ltd
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The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - Page 39
What’s On Seven Dances for Seven People
Local Theatre The Year They Were No Monsters ■ Weeping Spoon Productions celebrate 20 years of making weird and wonderful indie theatre with their new work The Year There Were No Monsters, debuting at this year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival from October 7-18 at the Trades Hall, Carlton. This new one-man comedy explores the triumph of the human spirit against all odds.The Year There Were No Monsters takes place in a world where giant mutant monsters roam the Earth and one legendary alien hero protects us all. A hero that is so good at their job, in fact, that for one entire year, there were NO monsters. In this show, a group of bizarre and eccentric ‘everyday people’ gather at an Open Mic to tell their stories. Told through story, song, clown, mime and “high art” these characters will explore theme of love, loss, betrayal, divine inspiration, perseverance and what it truly means to be a ‘hero’ in today’s world. Inspired by 1960s Japanese pop-culture icons like Ultraman and Kamen Rider, the legend of Godzilla, Super Sentai and other Tokusatsu heroes, a man and his guitar will take the audience of a hilarious journey through some truly strange and wonderful characters in a reality just one small step away from our own. A new work, this is the second major collaboration between fringe-fav Shane Adamczak and director Sam Longley who’s work Vehicle won the 2023 Fringe World ‘Best Theatre’ and ‘Martin Sims’ Awards plus the coveted “Just For Laughs – Best Comedy” Award at the 2024 Montreal Fringe Festival. A one-man comedy about a bunch of weird, eccentric characters telling stories about living in a world where giant monsters exist. One man and a guitar presenting uplifting tales of the human spirit. There will be songs, there will be laughs, oh and there 'will be monsters'. Performance Details: October 7-18 at 8.45pm (Wed-Sat) 7.45pm Sun Venue: Old Council Chambers, Trades Hall, Carlton Bookings: melbournefringe.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Morning Melodies
● Silvie Paladino ■ Silvie Paladino entertains in Morning Melodies being presented at Hamer Hall on Monday, September 14 at 11am and 1.30pm. The performance titled A Life On Stage, is a reflection of Silvie's successful career. From her breakthrough in Les Misérables in Australia and London’s West End, to standout roles in CATS, Miss Saigon, Mamma Mia!, Chess, Passion, Fun Home, Cinderella and Sunset Boulevard, Silvie has established herself as one of the nation’s most versatile performers. This year marks the 41st year of the Morning Melodies program, which was created by Betty Pounder and producer Sandy Graham to use an empty theatre on the traditional 'dark day' - Monday morning. It has grown into a beloved daytime tradition, presenting over 450 concerts and welcoming more than half a million people. Performance Date: Monday September 14 Times: 11am and 1.30pm Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: artscentremelbourne. com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
SAVAGES AT THEATRE WORKS
● Zoe Boesen, Aya Taur, Nicci Wilks and Laila Thaker in Savages. Photo: Pia Johnson ■ Patricia Cornelius wrote Savages in 2013 partly in response to the death of Dianne Brimble on a cruise ship in 2002. The work examines the misogynistic conduct of four men whose aggression, entitlement and ignorance epitomise the worst of the manosphere. Director Kitan Petkovski has chosen to cast women in these four roles in the current Theatre Works production and, by so doing, has seemingly heightened the stereotypical archetypes associated with Rabbit (Aya Taur), Craze (Laila Thaker), Runt (Nicci Wilks) and George (Zoe Boesen). As such, what tends to emerge is a litany of grievance where the conduct of men is concerned rather than a reflection on why this conduct is so prevalent. The characters lose any prospect for development and are fixed in place. This limits the potential for a story arc where the realisation about one’s conduct can hollow out a character. The dramatic accord between the performers, however, speaks to an affinity of purpose both in the movement (Freya List) and the verse-like nature of the script which has individuals working in unison to respond and interplay with each other physically and linguistically. This latter feature of the script suggests the characters are versed in their misogyny but also unable to escape it.
Bianca Pardo’s set is simple with deck boards and railings inferring a cruise ship and Harrie Hogan’s lighting creates the appropriate focus when the action moves to pairs or an individual. Cornelius originally wrote this work for a male cast. Seeing women in these roles might enable men to distance themselves from the necessity of identifying with the conduct, of questioning their actions and bringing about change. Until September 12 at Theatre Works, St Kilda. Review by David McLean
Greatest Magic Show ■ Showmen Productions present a return of The Greatest Magic Show on Wednesday, September 23 and Thursday, September 24 at 10.30am at Spiegel Haus Melbourne, 217 Lonsdale St. Stars Sam Hume and Justin Williams will present their 'mind-blowing' illusions, magic, comedy and fun - 'all wrapped around a powerful message for every child in the audience: Believe in yourself and anything is possible.' Every child will receive a free magic wand on entry to help with the magic throughout the show, and may even get a chance to come up on stage themselves.
■ Award-winning choreographer Trà Mi Dinh premieres a new work inspired by one of humanity's oldest and most mysterious obsessions: the number 7 from September 9-19 at the Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre. Fresh from commissions with Sydney Dance Company and Lucy Guerin Inc, Trà Mi Dinh creates choreography that bends perception of time, rhythm and expectation. Her latest work, 7 Dances for 7 People, brings together seven of Melbourne’s most exceptional dancers in a ritual of precision, endurance and devotion. Complex and precise movement builds through patterns and repetition, gradually reaching a heightened state of sensation and transcendence. Composer Tilman Robinson, known for his ambient, maximalist electroacoustic music, imbues the sonic world with his score, experimenting with a 7/8 time signature - an asymmetrical rhythm that creates a distinctive framework for choreographic exploration. Across cultures and throughout history, the number seven has symbolised perfection and totality. 7 is seen as the union of the spiritual (3) and the physical (4), offering a compelling lens through which to consider the act of dancing. Possessed by this equation and driven by the cultural mythology surrounding the number, 7 Dances for 7 People transforms numerical obsession into movement. The work explores the elusive yet prevailing impact and meanings of this number and its iterations in rhythm, repetition and symbolism. 7 Dances for 7 People brings together intricate threads in a work that is both epic and detailed – 'a body-driven piece that shifts between majestic imagery, machine-like precision, and frenetic energy’. This work does not ask the audience to theorise or ‘understand’: it is said to be 'a seduction, and an invitation to feel.' 7 Dances for 7 People is presented by Darebin Arts Speakeasy as part of Darebin FUSE Festival’s Open Access program. Performance Dates: September 9-19 at 7.30pm Venue: Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre, 189 High St, Northcote Tickets: arts.darebin.vic.gov.au/Programs-and-opportunities/Programs/ Speakeasy-presentations/7-Dances-for7-
Cheryl Threadgold
Circus - The Show
Cheryl Threadgold
● Circus - the Show
● Sam Hume and Justin Williams present The Greatest Magic Show.
■ The family circus spectacular Circus - the Show will be presented by Showmen Productions from September 23 October 4 at 12 Noon daily at Spiegel Haus Melbourne, 217 Lonsdale St. Featuring illusions, tumbling acrobats, highly skilled jugglers, elegant aerialists, a clown with a gigantic 6ft balloon, and lots of comedy. Headed by the Ringmaster, this jampacked 60-minute spectacle will entertain the whole family. Dates: September 23-October 4 at 12 noon daily Venue: Spiegel Haus Melbourne, 217 Lonsdale St, Melbourne Bookings: melbournefringe.com.au/ whats-on/events/circus-the-show
Cheryl Threadgold
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Observations Tudor Choristers
● Andrew Raiskums
■ In these grey days the idea of a concert focused on the idea of light is rather appealing. On Saturday (Sep. 12), The Tudor Choristers will stage their concert Lux Eterna (Light Eternal), with a program of choral works designed to uplift our spirits. The featured work is contemporary composer Morten Lauridsen’s glowing Lux Eterna, a sublime work both for those who sing it and those in the audience who listen. The concert’s program spans more than a thousand years, with 12th century composer Hildegard von Bingen, and the 17th century’s Heinrich Schutz. Representing the 19th century are composers Brahms and Rheinberger, with the current era being represented by Lauridsen and the fabulous Eric Whiatcre. The Tudor Choristers’ regular conductor, Christopher Watson, is on leave, so the Lux Eterna concert will be conducted by well-known Melbourne Choral conductor, Andrew Raiskums, who is also the conductor of Gloriana Chamber Choir. The choir will be accompanied by organist Rhys Arvidson. Founded in 1962 by David Carolane, The Tudor Choristers are one of Melbourne’s most long-standing and respected choirs. Because once is never enough for this truly beautiful music, there are two opportunities to enjoy the Tudor Choristers. The first concert is on Saturday afternoon September 12 at 3.30 pm in Wesley Uniting Church, 130 Lonsdale St, and the second concert is on Wednesday September 16 at 7pm in St John’s Anglican Church, 552 Burke Rd, Camberwell. Book tickets through tudorchoristers.org.au
Julie Houghton
Auditions ■ PEP Productions: One Act Wonders – A Series of Short Plays, September 9 at 7.30pm at the Mt Dandenong Region Scout Centre, 117 Heathmont Rd., Heathmont. Audition enquiries: contact Justin Cleaver. ■ Essendon Theatre Company: Drinking Habits 2 (by Tom Smith) September 12 at 10.00am at the Bradshaw St. Community Theatre, 9 Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Bethany Simmons. Submit an audition form to arrange an audition time via the website or forms.gle/HZ56b3d2ot6VoKD68
Cheryl Threadgold
NFL game in Melb. ■ A colourful new NFL-inspired activation is landing at Melbourne Park ahead of Australia’s first ever regular season NFL game. The Y Zone, created by Y Series, the official wine sponsor of the NFL in Australia and New Zealand, opens Thursday (Sept. 10) and will capture the energy and theatre of an American game day, in the heart of Melbourne.
Contributed
The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - Page 41
SWEETHEART (GIOIA MIA) ■ Written and directed by Margherita Spampinato, Sweetheart (Gioia Mia) is a coming-of-age, generation-gap story that starts with a collision of two universes. Sent by his parents to his great-aunt Gela’s (Aurora Quattrocchi) in Sicily for the summer holidays, 11-year-old Roman boy Nico (Marco Fiore) is unimpressed. Shocked at the deprivations he is forced to endure, such as no wi-fi and no air conditioning, Nico wails down the phone to his unseen parents, “You sent me back to the Dark Ages!” Equally unimpressed, his elderly, religious guardian, Gela, finds her young charge rude and uncouth. She confiscates Nico’s phone, serves only traditional Sicilian food, and forces him to wear old-fashioned pyjamas, much to Nico’s disgust. At first, the relationship is marked by sarcasm and disobedience, but slowly, each begins to appreciate the other. After initial teasing, Nico soon forms a friendship with other children sent to stay with elderly relatives for the summer. A strong bond develops into a fledgling romance between Nico and Rosa (Martina Ziami). The children spend their time searching the empty rooms of the mysterious former palace, now apartments, looking for evidence of ghosts. Their expeditions are fuelled by ghost stories and superstitions from Gela’s elderly friends and neighbours. Wonderful cinematography captures a sense of decaying elegance as the children explore the building, along with summer scenes of people enjoying each other’s company away from the tech rat race. Sweetheart is exactly as its title suggests: a very sweet film with excellent performances from all the supporting cast. But it is Quattrocchi and Fiore’s journey, as great-aunt and nephew, moving through hostility to tolerance to acceptance, that forms the heart of the film. Opening in selected Australian cinemas on September 18. Further details visit italianfilmfestival. com.au/films/iff26-sweetheart
Review by Kathryn Keeble
Poulenc ■ Piano duo Lucas and Arthur Jussen, make their Melbourne Symphony Orchestra debut on September 10 and 12 at 7.30pm at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne. Under the baton of Japanese conductor Nodoka Okisawa, the brothers will bring to life Poulenc’s Concerto for Two Pianos. One conductor who's led them in concert put it best: performing with the Jussens is "like driving a pair of BMWs." The sibling rivalry of this fast-paced concerto will see four hands and a full orchestra going head to head. In this program, French wit meets Japanese imagination. Before the Jussens take the stage, Toru Takemitsu's Three Film Scores with equal parts New York jazz and old Hollywood romance will be followed by And Birds Are Still … Takashi Yoshimatsu's quiet meditation on nature and the weight of the human experience. Event Details: Thursday, September 10, Saturday, September 12 at 7.30pm Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: mso.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Farnham in theatres ■ The Songs of John Farnham: A Living Legend – The Celebration Concert will be broadcast live into Hoyts cinemas nationwide on Sunday, September 20, giving fans who missed out on tickets the chance to watch the event as it happens. The original concert at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena sold out rapidly, prompting Hoyts to partner exclusively with producers Cochrane Entertainment and TEG Dainty to stream the event to cinemas across Australia. The show features an extraordinary lineup of over 120 artists and musicians, including Keith Urban, Tina Arena, Jimmy Barnes, Jessica Mauboy, Richard Marx, and remote appearances from Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman, all under the musical direction of collaborator Chong Lim.
Kaiela Arts
● Norm Yakaduna Stewart Photo: James Henry ■ Kaiela Arts, an Aboriginal art centre located in Shepparton, has announced respected Kwat Kwat artist Norm Yakaduna Stewart as the artist for its 2026 Kaiela Arts Editions release, created in collaboration with Melbourne studio Spacecraft. Kaiela Arts Editions expands creative and commercial opportunities for First Nations artists, building on the success of the program’s inaugural edition in 2025 with internationally acclaimed artist Maree Clarke. The 2026 release features an exclusive limited edition of 40 hand-printed works on archival paper and 10 silkscreen prints on glass. The release will be celebrated with public launch events at Kaiela Arts in Shepparton on November 26, and Spacecraft in Melbourne on December 5. It will be on view at Kaiela Arts from November 26 to December 23. Works will be available exclusively through the Kaiela Arts gallery and online, with proceeds supporting Kaiela Arts’ artist programs and community-led cultural practice. This edition draws on The Blow Hole, a culturally significant place near Tocumwal (in southern New South Wales), where water flows and bubbles through a granite outcrop when the Murray River is low. Through the work, Norm brings together Country, cultural story and the distinctive contemporary practice he has developed under the name of his great-great-grandfather, Yakaduna, also known as Tommy McRae. “The Blow Hole near Tocumwal is a significant Aboriginal site shared by Ulupna and Kwat Kwat Traditional Owners. Our Elders tell us that our creator Biami, represented by the snake, entered the underworld there, carving the caverns and tunnel systems,” said Norm Yakaduna Stewart. “When Dhungala - the Murray River is low, the Blow Hole bubbles. This is Biami’s spirit moving through the subterranean world. I painted it for this story and because its granite sinkholes hold water and support life through drought. “Working with Kaiela Arts and Spacecraft to bring the design into two-colour prints on paper and glass has given the work a new form. Without that collaboration, it would never have happened,” Stewart says. “Norm is a deeply respected artist, storyteller, caretaker and teacher whose practice makes an important contribution to the cultural story of south-east Australia,” said Chloe Jones, Curator, Kaiela Arts. “Following Maree Clarke’s inaugural release, this second Kaiela Arts Editions collaboration continues the program’s commitment to creating ambitious new opportunities for First Nations artists while bringing their work to wider audiences and collectors,” Jones says.
Local Theatre Shows ■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: Boeing Boeing (by Marc Camoletti) Until September 12 at the Warrandyte Mechanics Institute, Yarra St., Warrandyte. Directors: Tegan DeClark and Taryn Johns, Bookings: trybooking.com/au/event/1606177 ■ Powderkeg Players: Closer (by Patrick Marber) Until September 19 at St Albans Senior Citizens Centre, 171 William St., St Albans. Director: Del Jordan. https://www.trybooking.com/ DNOFM ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: Crimes of the Heart (by Beth Henley) Until September 19 at 35 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: James Antonas. Bookings: htc.org.au ■ Eltham Little Theatre: Dancing At Lughnasa (by Brian Friel) Until September 19 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd., Research. Director: Sean McKenna. Bookings: elthamlittletheatre.org.au/ ■ Phoenix Theatre Company: Alanis Morissetti’s Jagged Little Pill. Until September 12 at the Doncaster Playhouse.Bookings: phoenixtheatre company.org ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (by Jeffrey Lane). September 10 – 26 at the Lilydale Mechanics’ Institute, Castela St., Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Bookings: lilydaleatc.com ■ Essendon Theatre Company: Top Girls (Caryl Churchill) September 10 – 19 at the Bradshaw Street Community Theatre, Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Darby Turnbull. Bookings: essendontheatrecompany.com.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Holding the Man (by Tommy Murphy based on the novel by Timothy Conigrave), September 9 – 26 at 2 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Bruce Akers. Bookings: tickets@wlt.org.au ■ NOVA Music Theatre: Hello, Dolly! September 11 – 20 at The Round, Nunawading. Bookings: theround.com. au/HelloDolly ■ Frankston Theatre Group: As You Like it (by William Shakespeare) September 25 – October 4 at Frankston High School Performing Arts Theatre, 97 Foote St., Frankston. Director: Ruth Gilmour. Bookings: Trybooking. ■ The 1812 Theatre: Switzerland (by Joanna Murray-Smith) October 1 – 24 at 3 Rose St., Ferntree Gully. Director: Andrew Ferguson. Bookings: 1812theatre.com.au ■ Babirra Music Theatre: Disney’s Frozen – the Broadway Musical. October 1 – 11 at the Round Theatre, Nunawading. Director: Joel Batalha; Musical Director: Peter Verhagen; Choreographer: Kim Adam. Bookings: babirra.org.au ■ The Basin Theatre Group: You’re Only Young Twice (by Ron Aldridge) October 1 – 11 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Bob Bramble. Bookings: Email: tickets@thebasintheatre.au ■ Encore Theatre: Steel Magnolias (by Robert Harling) October 9 – 18 at the Clayton Theatrette, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: Susan Rundle. Bookings: encoretheatre.com.au ■ CLOC Musical Theatre: Come From Away October 9 – 24 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Co-Directors: Rob Robson and Tailem Tynan; Musical Director: Malcom Huddle. Bookings: cloc.org.au ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Cock (by Mike Bartlett) October 21 – 31 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Travis Handcock. Bookings: mordialloctheatrecompany. com.au ■ Warragul Theatre Company:The Curious Incident of the Dog in the NightTime (Adapted by Simon Stephens, based on the novel by Mark Haddon) October 15 – 18 at the West Gippsland Arts Centre. Bookings: warragultheatre company.org/ ■ LOTS Theatre (Legends of the Skies): Series 14, Meeting Females in Aviation. October 22 – 25 at the Moorabbin Air Museum, Casey Hangar, 12 First St., Moorabbin. Artistic Director: Maggie Morrison. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1637640 ■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Jesus Christ Superstar October 24 – November 7 at 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Enquiries: fabnobstheatre.com.au ■ Avid Theatre at 1812 Theatre: Closer (by Patrick Marber) October 28 – November 7 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Michael Fenemore. Bookings:1812theatre.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
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The Nightline, at Malthouse Bagging Room New chapter ■ Community radio station 3SER 97.7 FM has officially launched its new studios in the Wallara building at Keysborough. The station’s new home sees them broadcasting live once again. President Leigh Drew says it’s been a two-year journey of challenges, planning and hard work from a large dedicated group of people.
Keith at WGAC ■ Founding member of the Seekers, Keith Potger, presents Celebrating the Seekers 1962-2022. The solo concert takes you through the songs, stories, and influences that shaped their rise to international fame. Plus there’s the upbeat and heartwarming sound of Keith's 12-string guitar. Audiences are transported back in time to relive the best memories of The Seekers and a special tribute to the late Judith Durham. West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul, Sept. 11 at 11am. Tickets at WGAC.
Country choir ■ Elly McK will host the Country and Western Choir at the Lulie Tavern Abbotsford on September 20 at 3pm that will also feature guest band No Sleep Till Texas. In what is a new concept, Elly will lead the singing and teach a popular country song in three-part harmony. No singing experience needed. Just bring a little courage and a whole lotta enthusiasm, says her media release..
■ Never having rung in to a nightline, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. From the first steps via an exterior four level set of stairs, after cold, firm instructions from a sort of strict principal “concierge”, door entry permitted full viewing of a space with 40 separate round tables. Each had its own tightly focussed light, self dial telephone and self select eight point channel input. Sparse instructions, like no talk permitted, were all in mime. Approximately 40 minutes of solitude with only your selection of incoming conversations. This was a powerful experience, wherein apart from the anonymous, at times almost night ramblings of whomever I dialled in to, there was nothing. Those streams of at times almost semi consciousness purveyed sadness, self deprecation, boredom, amusement, emptiness, longing ... Nothing to focus on but the voice at the other end of a phone line stimulated my own images of the callers – sad reflectives, sardonically amused, aged and overwhelmed, plagued with insomnia, broken biological sleep patterned shift workers, exhausted mums. The bleakest sentence of all was “It’s me again ...” I was listening to the voice of someone who was so in need of a human voice that they obviously rang in many, many times – the nightline was their society ...
This was a powerful experience, wherein apart from the anonymous, at times almost night ramblings of whomever I dialled in to, there was nothing. - Maggie Morrison
“It’s good to talk” was a repeated sentence. “Why am I awake?” another. Despite my outside thoughts of sadness within callers, there was mostly a suggestion of a sort of acceptance and calmness about their being able to share thoughts with someone. A paradoxical caller was a solo flautist – lovely music being played but perhaps the only listeners for the sounds were via the Nightline. Occasionally alien light flashes and stormy weather sounds burst intrusively into “our” precious time – an outside world was there, but not for these callers in the night. Created by celebrated documentary maker Roslyn Oades and award winning sound artist Bob Scott with collaborators, this is unusual, compelling, immersive theatre which will open your mind to a different concept of human “sustainability”. Until August 29, Bagging Room, Malthouse Tickets from $38 Malthouse box office
● Photo: Simon Fazio
Review by Maggie Morrison
● The first all-day Good Friday telethon was aired in 1957.
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The Local Paper - Wednesday, September 9, 2026 - Page 45
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BREAK OF DAY
■ Revulsion and sympathy are counterpointed in this eloquently related tale of the universal human condition in Steve Rodger's play, Break of Day. Compromised by her adolescent pregnancy, single mother, Pamela (Kat Stewart), packs goods in a warehouse. An old school friend, Sanjeeva (Chum Ehelepola) is now her supervisor. The burdensome arrival of her geriatric and demanding father, Pop (Richard Piper) undermines any hope that Pam's daughter, Rae (Sherry-Lee Watson) will finish her school assignment on time. Additionally, Rae's boyfriend, Jedediah, (Theo Clarke) is preparing for his audition which will allow him to leave the work he has cleaning the factory. The work is visceral at times. The traumatic description of childbirth is negated by the love Pam has for Rae. Theo's clearing of a toilet blockage by hand is juxtaposed with his recitation of Caliban's soliloquy from The Tempest. The base of life is a primordial ooze. Rae's dissertation on Nabokov's 'Lolita' finds an immediate resonance in Pop's less than desirable past. Though roundly condemned, Pop becomes a figure of sympathy at the end of the play. Past choices and current reality clash. Watson and Clarke capture the exuberance and hopefulness of youth. Piper finds the complexity of Pop's character where insistence meets the guilt and shame. Ehelepola's scene uploading his character's vocal track is comedy gold but it is Stewart finding the simple frustration of her situation and projecting her hopes and dreams onto Rae where we see just how easily individuals are caught and compromised by unwise choices. Sarah Goodes direction and use of a revolving set (Anna Cordingley) facilitates an energetic momentum. The two tiered factory overlooking the simple, crowded household is telling. Paul Jackson's lighting allows alleys and spots to be purposefully utilised and the faint echo of a
● Kat Stewart (Pamela) and Sherry-Lee Watson (Rae) in Break of Day. Photo: Pia Johnson of a police siren in Jethro Woodward's sound scape hints at the consequences about to ensue at the end of the play. This work resonates on so many levels speaking of life's pathos and the constraints eroding the hopes and desires of many struggling to make ends meet. A must see. Until August 29 The Malthouse
Review by David McLean
Closer ■ Powderkeg Players present the Oliver award-winning drama Closer by Patrick Marber from September 4-19 at the St Albans Senior Citizens Centre. Directed by Del Jordan, Closer follows the lives of out-of-towner Alice, photographer Anna, obituary writer Dan and dermatologist Larry over several years as they meet, bond, separate and move on. The modern classic is described as "a provocative, witty and emo-
tionally devastating play that views love and sex like politics: it's not what you say that matters, still less what you mean, but what you do. “It is a brilliant exploration of the brutal anatomy of modern romance, and the painful truths we hide from those we love." Powderkeg Players is a St Albans community theatre company whose motto is “theatre that lights a fuse”. Del Jordan says: "This production will set the scene with bright projections that will immerse audiences in each setting. “To help set the mood, this production will also be infusing a memorable 90s trip-hop soundtrack, featuring artists such as Portishead and Massive Attack, alongside original jazz-inspired music made specifically for the show." Content warning: this production contains coarse language and mature themes, including scenes of a sexual nature. Performance Details: September 4-19 Times: Fri./Sat. evenings at 8pm, matinees Sun September 13, and Sat September 19 at 2pm. Q and A with cast September 11. Running time: Approx. 2 hrs, including a 20 minute interval Venue: St Albans Senior Citizens Centre, 171 William St, St Albans Tickets: $27 full price / $22 concession Bookings: powderkegplayers. com/shows/
Cheryl Threadgold
Vale Johnny Young
● Tully Jones (Anna), Wayne Gleeson (Larry), Jordyn Grubisic (Alice) and James Hammond (Dan) rehearse Closer.
■ Australian entertainment legend and Young Talent Time host Johnny Young died late last month, aged 79. Young’s family said the beloved television and music industry figure died following a short illness with pancreatic cancer. Young was host of Young Talent Time, which launched the careers of some of Australia’s best-known entertainers. He wrote hit songs including The Real Thing and Smiley. He was recognised with inductions into both the TV Week Logies Hall of Fame and the ARIA Hall of Fame. Young leaves behind his wife Marisha, sister Cornelia, daughters Anna and Fleur, son Craig (dec.), seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Rourke’s Reviews Hope ■ (MA). 160 minutes. Opens in selected cinemas September 10. After a decade of silence, writer/director Na Hong-jin finally returns to the big screen with Hope , a big, booming epic that, like his previous films did, subverts genre expectations to deliver a genuinely entertaining blockbuster, one that actually challenges the audience to interpret and keep up with what Na is wanting to present. South Korean superstar Hwang Jung-min typically outstanding as Police Chief Bum-seok, who oversees the small village of Hope Harbour. On one particular morning, he is brought to a rural road to investigate the strange death of a bull. The animal has been clawed to death, but not eaten in any way. The person who informed him, Sung-ki (Zo In-sung), was out hunting with friends, largely with older, unregistered guns (a running gag which proves hilarious), and the reason for the attack is put on a rogue tiger. It doesn’t take long to realise that something far larger and more dangerous is roaming the area, and as Bum-seok desperately tries to catch up with what is happening, helped considerably by rookie officer Sung-ae (Hoyeon), he will come face to face with the true culprit. Given the films’s lengthy running time, Hope is certainly divided into three distinctive acts, or hours. The first hour is truly astounding, with the initial finding escalating into something terrifying and destabilising, with Bum-seok an action male symbol who is deconstructed, with gung-ho behaviour that is both hilarious and unsettling. As the small town and its inhabitants are attacked, we never see the creature during this time frame, with Na concentrating on the human reaction to the village invasion, and the community’s ingrained political paranoia. The other aspect is that we are given no back story to any of the characters, which seems jarring at first, but once the second act kicks in, it becomes clear that the director is putting all characters, local or otherwise, on equal footing. Instead, Na gives the era and location incredible texture (the time period is never specified, but it appears to be the mid 1980s), and through that gradually gets the audience to pay attention to incremental layers added to the gallery of people reacting and dealing with what is going on. For those who are familiar with Korean history, this approach is both fascinating and invigorating. In fact, the early section of the film could be described as Bong Joon-ho’s brilliant Memories Of Murder (2003) with sci-fi elements. When the creature responsible for all the death and destruction is finally shown, Na continues to experiment and deconstruct, using past conflict and division to make audiences re-evaluate what they are watching and who they align with. The final act is almost nonstop action, with battles that
● Aaron Rourke could take place in a disconnected DMZ. So many aspects of the production, which is apparently the most expensive South Korean film of alltime, are world class. The cinematography by Hong Kyung-pyo (whose amazing resume includes films such as The Foul King, Il Mare, Save The Green Planet!, M, Mother, Snowpiercer, The Wailing, Burning, Parasite and Deliver Us From Evil) is exceptional, shooting in a style that is both expansive and intimate, and captures the action set-pieces and eye-popping stunt work with absolute clarity. There is also an excellent music score by Michael Abels (Get Out, Us, Nope). The sound design is truly immersive and totally effective. Performances are terrific. Hwang, a genuine movie star who can frequently command the screen (in a multitude of films such as New World, Veteran, The Wailing, The Spy Gone North, 12.12: The Day and I, The Executioner) fully embraces Na’s script, allowing his character to move and shape in unexpected ways as the story plays out. Hoyeon, who made a huge impression in the hit Netflix series Squid Game, makes a confident feature film debut, wonderfully combining comic timing with dramatic rage. Zo ( The Classic, A Dirty Carnival, The King, Smugglers) seems to love subverting his usual screen persona, and convinces throughout. Despite all what is so good about Hope, there are crucial aspects that are so frustrating. The CGI effects employed to present the creature are, at best, extremely uneven, and at worst, totally unconvincing. There are scenes where the effects could be described as acceptable, but the overly ambitious nature leads to disappointing results. Another criticism is that, while never boring, the film could have been shorter. There are scenes that could have been trimmed (one involving a character talking about suffering from diarrhoea while encountering the creature is a perfect example), with a final 40 minutes that feel somewhat protracted. The last is the ending, which of course I can’t divulge (those who know Choi Dong-hoon’s Alienoid (2022) will know what I’m talking about). Overall, Hope is passionate, energetic film-making from a master film-maker, and while not as good as his last film, The Wailing (2016), this is still potent, first-class entertainment. I just hope it doesn’t take 10 years for Na to make another film. RATING - ****
Aaron Rourke
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■ Many of our readers will remember the American situation comedy series Family Affair which starred Brian Keith as a civil engineer trying to raise his brother’s three orphaned children. Family Affair was in production from 1966 to 1971 and it was very popular in Australia. The cast included Sebastian Cabot as the English butler and Kathy Garver, Johnny Whitaker and Anissa Jones as the orphaned children. Sadly, Kathy and Johnny are the only principal cast members still alive today. It was difficult to get established film actors to take roles in television series in the 1960s. Brian Keith was offered a contract where he was only required to work on Family Affair for sixty days a year and a share of the profits – he accepted the role. Don Fedderson who was the creator and producer of the series made a similar arrangement with Fred MacMurray to entice him into My Three Sons. Kathy Garver worked in many films and television series as a child actress. She was noticed by Cecil B DeMille, whilst working as an extra, during the filming of the epic The Ten Commandments in 1956 and her role was expanded. DeMille was so impressed that he wrote new scenes for her to play the role of Rachel and she worked opposite Charlton Heston. Kathy was eighteen when she was cast as ‘Cissy Davis’, the eldest daughter in
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Whatever Happened to ... Kathy Garver
By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM
Family Affair. The series ran for 138 episodes. As Brian Keith was on a special contract, Sebastian Cabot was very ill during the filming and Anissa and Johnny were only allowed to work limited hours, as a result the bulk of the dialogue and hard work was left up to Kathy. When the series finished in 1971 Kathy continued to work as a guest star in popular television shows such as The Big Valley, Matlock and Dr Kildare. Kathy can be seen in a small role in the film The Princess Diaries. Over the years Kathy has been a successful voiceover artist on many television shows and has narrated talking books. In 2008 Kathy starred in a production of the stage play The Glass Menagerie in Ten-
● Kathy Garver nessee. Kathy is in great demand for appearances, autograph shows and promotions throughout America. Kathy has written several books. Her first book, The Family Affair Cookbook, published by Bear Manor Media, is a tasty trip down memory lane with anecdotes and photos, and received excellent reviews. Kathy Garver met her husband David Travis on a tennis court in 1981 and they had a happy marriage until David passed
away in 2025. They had one son Reid Travis. Find out more about Kathy Garver at her website www.kathygarver.com
Kevin can be heard on 3AW The Time Tunnel - Remember When Sundays at 10.10pm with Simon Owens and Andrew McLaren. And on 96.5 FM That's Entertainment - Sundays at 12 Noon. www.innerfm.org.au
THE SCROLLS - 3000 DAYS - AT BURRINJA GALLERY Entertainment Extra The Deplorables ■ Writer/director Christine Davey’s The Deplorables tells the story of Australia’s first women’s cricket match. In 1874, a young teacher, Barbara Rae (an excellent Marie-Claire Tchernomoroff), places an advertisement in the local Bendigo newspaper with a request for “Ladies who are desirous of playing cricket” to meet. A women’s cricket match for charity is planned for the annual Easter show. What could be more civilised? After all, cricket is “a game that breaks for cups of tea.” A running gag throughout, “What if their wombs explode!” reflects the prevailing attitude that women were too delicate for exertion and highlights the pseudo-scientific myths persisting about female anatomy. Based on Louise Zedda-Sampson’s Bowl the Maidens Over, Davey draws on archives and media from the time, incorporating fascinating ephemera and colourfully creating not only interest in the women’s games but also what these women were up against. For example, a news report recorded that over 2000 spectators turned up to watch the match and further opined that at least some of the women players were “almost pretty”. Following the game, a media frenzy erupted. Charming, witty, and fascinating, the enthusiastic and talented cast brings this incredible story to life. Interspersed with lively music and movement by Tess Parker are lovely vignettes, such as an emerging friendship between cricketers Miss E Gerber (Danae Reid) and Miss Katie Petrie (Madeleine Potter) that may be the beginning of something deeper. A very moving epilogue underscores how little is known of these early pioneers. Many are known only by their last names as recorded in news reports. Danae Reid’s Miss E Gerber, in another running gag, speculates throughout on her first name, wondering what it might be. At 70 minutes, the production is over too soon. Presented at Theatre Works.
Review by Kathryn Keeble
Men At Work Revisited ■ Colin Hay will be bringing his world class band from LA in October to venues across Australia, offering a night as they revisit the quintessential songs of his seminal 80s outfit Men At Work. It has been 45 years since the conception of one of the world’s most celebrated Australian albums. With tracks like Down Under, Who Can It Be Now and Be Good Johnny still in high rotation on airwaves across the globe, there is no denying that Men At Work’s debut studio album Business As Usual has stood the test of time. “What has clearly stood the test of time, are the songs. Forty-five years on, I still hear them in the street, on the radio, in supermarkets, they are still going strong,” said Colin Hay. Having spent 15 weeks at No. 1 on the US Billboard 200 and five weeks at No. 1 in the UK albums chart, Business As Usual defined an era where Australian rock music emerged from the beer-soaked stages of local haunts and started to make its mark on an industry saturated by sequins and synth. Since then, frontman Colin Hay has had a prolific career touring as both a solo artist and a long-term member of Ringo Starr and His AllStarr Band. In more recent years he has collected a stellar group of LAbased musicians to tour under the moniker of Men At Work, giving punters abroad the experience of that eclectic and iconic sound imprinted on the fabric of Australia’s identity. Tess Fox Wed. Nov. 4 - Palais Theatre, Melbourne.
The Scrolls – 3000 Days … and counting – Sharon Field What does it mean to pay attention to the natural world every single day? In response to a 2021 United Nations report warning that global temperatures must remain below 1.4 C increase by 2030, botanical artist Sharon Field embarked on an extraordinary act of observation and hope. Beginning on Earth hour, March 2 2022, Sharon committed to creating one botanical drawing for the 3,000 days leading to 2-3-. Focusing on plants and intricate they share with their surrounding ecosystems The Scrolls – 3000 Days and Counting is both a personal ritual and a powerful reflection on our changing environment. Each drawing captures a fleeting moment in nature, together forming a growing visual record of connection, resilience and care. Exhibition: September 3-6 and October 23 – 25. Burrinja Art Gallery 351 Glenfern Rd., Upwey
Kew Tesserae (Mosaics) in Contemporary Art. Join us for this fascinating talk by artist curator Cetta Pilati on the use of mosaics in contemporary art. Learn how to figurative and abstract artworks are treated created ising tiny squareshaped tiles (tesserae) of glass, stone and ceramic. Using examples of her own and other’s work Pilati will take us through the process of how these intricate works of art are designed and mane. Exhibition: Saturday November 15 at 3pm. Altered States – Daniel Crooks with paintings, Videos, Photographs and Sculptures from the Lyon Collection. The Gallery are pleased to present the current exhibition in the galleries featuring works by some of Australia’s leading contemporary artists.| Exhibition: closes Sunday May 30 2027. ■ The House Museum and Galleries will be closed from Thursday October 8 - Sunday October 11 (inclusive) for a private event. Lyon Museum and Galleries 217-219 Cotham Rd, Kew
Caulfield Creative Currents Explores the depths of the creative mind the way ideas make shape – through quiet reflection, bold expression and everything in between. Bringing together traditional contemporary approaches, the exhibition Highlights the skill, care and individuality of each artist. Exhibition closes Sunday September 6. Patient as dust: Restless as tide Explore the relationship between natural and man-made materials mixed media and sculpture exhibition. Addressing themes of suitability, feminism, and our relationship with the environment, the viewer
The Arts With Peter Kemp
ebrated and what is wasted. The exhibition challenges traditional exhibitions notions of the female artist, reclaiming practices such as collecting and preserving as important acts of cultural, ecological and feminist expression. Exhibition closes Sunday September 6. Glen Eira Art Gallery Cnr Hawthorn & Glen Eira Rds, Caulfield
Peter Kemp
Ben Folds and MSO ■ The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will reunite with iconic American singersongwriter, composer and pianist Ben Folds for two performances as part of a national orchestral tour. Folds will reimagine his beloved songbook with the MSO and Principal Guest Conductor Benjamin Northey, performing with the Orchestra for the first time in six years, at Hamer Hall on Friday-Saturday, January 2930. The concerts build on the MSO’s extensive history with Folds where the orchestra and the Emmy nominated artist have collaborated several times over the last two decades. Folds is looking forward to returning to Australia and performing with the country’s leading symphony orchestras, including the MSO, as part of a national tour which will also see him perform with the Canberra, Sydney, Adelaide and Tasmanian Symphony Orchestras. "Sharing the stage with an orchestra as my band is an honour I don't take lightly. I consider them among the finest musicians in the world and together we offer audiences a musical experience like no other”, Folds said. "As a student of the orchestra, I sincerely believe they are a shining example of what we can accomplish in society when we all work in concert and harmony for a greater good." Ben Folds is an Emmy-nominated singersongwriter who has created an enormous body of genre-bending music that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, a holiday album, and numerous collaborative records.
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LARGE GATHERING AT MELTON
■ A large gathering of harness racing folk were in attendance at Melton Entertainment Park on Saturday August 29 to witness the latest Harness Racing “Hall Of Fame” Inductions for 2026. Those to be inducted were : Cranbourne co-trainers Noel Alexander and Jayne Davies, exceptional Long Forest trainer Andy Gath, champion pacer Sokyola, prolific winning pacer Royal Gaze, outstanding trotter Sundons Gift, and breeding guru John Coffey, with outstanding brood mare and dual gaited matron Maori Miss elevated to legend status. The Clarke, Mahar and Simons family were also honored for their involvement in the sport over a long period of time.
Off to Malta
■ Local Melton reinsman Clinton Welsh is to represent Australia in a one day international gala race challenge program to be held in Malta on September 22. A number of countries are to compete at the meeting including New Zealand’s Michael House along with several other drivers from Europe – best of luck Clinton.
Shepparton
■ Racing for the week commenced on Tuesday September 1 at Shepparton with their usual night fixture and the night belonged to ace reinsman James Herbertson who chalked up five winners on the nine event card. First to arrive was honest 6Y0 Used To Me-Sister Of Sonoko gelding Against The Bridle for Sutton Grange trainer Ross Graham in the VHRC / GBL Properties Trotters Mobile over 1690 metres. Raced by Ross’ twin brother Leigh, Against The Bridle was trapped three wide from outside the front line before progressing forward to take over from Atego Dawn (gate four) which had crossed Massif Central (gate three). Given an easy time, Against The Bridle recorded a 2.5 metre margin in advance of I Am Harro (one/four from inside the second line – three wide last lap) and Jessica Story (four pegs from gate three second line) who was 4.6 metres away third. The mile rate 1-58.1. ■ Next to come along was Glenn Bull’s Derrinal trained 9Y0 Mach Three-Indigo Breeze mare Taste It in the 1690 metre VHRC / Mark Gurry and Associates Pace, leading throughout from the pole to account for Arraps (gate four) which raced outside him and Ohhemmjay Cresco (gate two – one/two – tree wide last lap) . The margins 6 by 3.4 metres in a 1-57 mile rate. Ross Graham loves Shepparton and snared a training double after 9Y0 Bitobliss-Georgina Bow gelding Final Bow recorded his 36th victory (46 placings) by taking the VHRC / J Yoemans Supporting Harness Racing Vicbred Voucher Pace again over 1690 metres giving ‘Herbie’ victory number three. Despite racing exposed from gate four outside pacemaker Treacheroustimes (gate three), Final Bow surged to the front on the final bend to gain the day by 4.3 metres in advance of polemarker Wingate Guy along the sprint lane after trailing. Cresco Threepeat (extreme draw) – one/ three was third flashed late for third a half head back. The mile rate 1-58.7. Final Bow was bred and raced by long time Bendigonian Ivan Collison. ■ Joining forces with Mundoona partowner/trainer Steven Branson aboard lightly raced American Ideal-Gracie Angel gelding 5Y0 gelding Axis Angel in the 2190 metre VHRC / Black Horse Naturals Vicbred Voucher 4Y0 & Older Maiden Pace victory number four arrived. Enjoying a sweet passage from the pole trailing the well supported Dyganali (gate two), Axis Angel came away from the inside on the home turn to score by 2.9 metres from Beryls Boots (three pegs from the extreme draw), with Dyganali third a half head away in a mile rate of 2-00.5. ■ Handy 5Y0 Alta Christiano-Shez Madam Jasper gelding Alta Bayamo bred and raced by Mundoona’s John and Maree Newberry brought up the quintet when successful in the 1690 metre SHRC Wager Wednesday Vicbred Voucher Pace before giving his supporters a few anxious moments. Galloping way from gate three in the
score up to settle at the rear, Herbie wasted no time in sending Alta Bayamo forward as soon as he hit his straps to cross the leader Spun Silver (gate two) shortly after, before coasting to victory 5.6 metres clear of a death-seating Our Mystery Bet (outside front line), with Spun Silver third a neck back. The mile rate 1-56.9. ■ Romsey trainer/driver Chris Svanosio provided the most impressive victory on the night when Huntsville-Gotta Go Hype gelding Straathdale on debut landed the VHRC / Rich River Golf Club Vicbred Voucher 2Y0 & 3Y0 0-1 LTW Pace over 1690 metres. Beginning fast from gate three to lead, Straathdale was racing very roughly and went off stride losing valuable ground allowing Touch Of Reality (gate six) to assume control. Once back into stride, Straathdale was rushed forward and had little difficulty in crossing the leader and once there, defied all challengers to record a huge 18.5 metre margin over Piastri (four pegs) from outside the front line and using the sprint lane. Polemarker My Rocking Horse (three pegs) also used the sprint lane for third 6.1 metres away in a 1-54 mile rate.
Ballarat ■ Wednesday was Ballarat with a most entertaining nine race card – the most elated people of track being Melton’s Ward family following the victory of 5Y0 Volstead-Jumanji Franco mare Dreams Of Love in the Del Re Rational Foods Trotters Mobile. Part- owned, trained and driven by Kaylene Ward for parents Peter and Kathleen along with nephew Cooper, Dreams Of Love led out from gate two and allowed to bowl along at her leisure, kicked clear on turning to prevail by 5.1 metres over polemarker Buckles For Berry which trailed, with local hope No Telling Heather (gate five) third 6.8 metres back after being trapped wide and going forward to race exposed. The mile rate 1-59.1. ■ Cardigan trainer Sam Barker has a very handy trotter by the name of Solotrekk a 6Y0 gelded son of Centurian Alm and Starry Wood who chalked up his third vsuccess in nine outings by taking the ballarattrottingclub,com.au Trotters Mobile over 2200 metres. Driven by Jackie Barker, Solotrekk raced by sister Stacey settled three back along the markers from inside the second line as Rastamon showed his usual speed from gate five to lead for Tina Ridis. Angling into the clear on straightening, Solotrekk finished hard out wide to record a 3.1 metre margin from Constant (gate four – one/one – one/two – three wide last lap) which ran home nicely. Rastamon held third 2.8 metres back. The mile rate 2-00.3. ■ Another family involvement to win on the night was the Craig Demmler (Myrniong) trained Bettors Delight-Mach Robyn gelding Sweetsugarcandyman in the 1710 Woodlands Stud Maiden Pace. Raced by Craig along with World champion driver father Ted and stepmother Merryn, Sweetsugarcandyman driven by Ryan Sanderson making his second race appearance settled three back in the running line from gate two on the second line, moving a spot closer three wide in the last lap before dropping into the one/one approaching the final bend. Angling wide in the straight, Sweetsugarcandyman ran
home best to register a 3.3 metre victory in a 1-56.9 mile rate from polemarker Queens Boulevard which had trailed the leader Major Friend (gate two) and used an inside passage was third 1.3 metres away. ■ Veteran Hamilton trainer Jim Barker combined with granddaughter Jackie to snare the Radio Ballarat Vicbred Voucher 4Y0 and Older Maiden Trotters Mobile with 5Y0 Love You-My Chimera gelding Why Now. Heavily supported, Why Now was easily crossed from the pole to settle four pegs before quickly easing away from the markers to possie one/one as Alectrona (gate five) crossed the leader Mi Bow (gate four) leaving Delta Gee (gate three) exposed. Easing three wide on the final bend, Why Now ran home best to record a 1.9 metre margin in advance of the pacemaker, with Mi Bow third 10.4 metres back. The mile rate 2-03.4. ■ Ten year old Lawrence trained gelding Louey Louey Louey-Telern Tilly gelding Charlie Walker registered his 20th success in 182 outings when successful in the 1710 metre Palmerbet Trotters Mobile. Driven by Michael Bellman in the prostate cancer colours for co-owners Ken (trainer) and Merna Whelan, Charlie Walker second up from a let-up began fast from gate five to cross polemarker Aldebaran Maverick and seemingly relishing the role, toyed with his rivals to greet the judge by 5.9 metres untouched from Nuclear Attitude (three pegs) from a solo second line draw, with Wilcannia running on late from the rear out wide for third 3.6 metres back after being eased from outside the front line.
Kilmore ■ A most even night of racing was held at Kilmore on Thursday with ten races listed. Wedderburn trainer Nick Youngston who has enjoyed a profitable season to date added another winner to his tally when heavily supported 5Y0 Million Dollar CamTeam Spirit mare Esperanza was successful in the 1690 metre Tellurian Wines Pace. Driven by the unstoppable James Herbertson, Esperanza starting from gate two on the second line settled beautifully one/one as Atomic Lady led from gate two. Going forward to join the pacemaker on the home turn, Esmeralda was too tough at the business end, scoring by 2.2 metres from Atomic Glory which battled on gamely, with polemarker Dancin With Elvis third 7.6 metres away third after trailing the runner up. The mile rate 2-00.3. ■ Honest 4Y0 Rock N Roll HeavenTorridon gelding Owen The Saints bred and raced by Swan Hill’s Noel Watson landed the 1690 metre Next Payments Pace. Trained at John Tormey’s Junortoun base by daughter Ellen and Jack Laugher, Owen The Saints driven by Jack settled three back in the running line from the extreme draw before gaining a lovely three wide trail into the final bend courtesy of Ninedolla Toastie(gate five) which had vacated the one/one spot. Running home hard on turning, Owen The Saints finished fast to record a head margin over the poleline leader Feel The Reign which gave a sight. Ninedolla Toastie held third 2 metres back in a 1-56.7 mile rate. Sutton Grange trainer Ross Graham has a way with these old claimers and 11Y0 Tophut Johny a gelded son of Mr Feelgood and Jesse Grant snared the 2180 metre Broadstead Kilmore Pace in a 2-01.3 mile rate. Driven by Liam Older who rarely does anything wrong, Tophut Johny led throughout from gate three to record his 31st success in 259 outings, accounting for Glenline which flashed home late six wide from the rear to go down by 2 metres. Goodtime Mae (gate two) was third 1.8 metres back after trailing the winner and using the sprint lane. ■ Four year old Volstead-Aldebaran Deebee gelding Aldebaran Denbay having his first start for Henty trainer Brooke McPherson was victorious in the 2180 metre JC Windows Trotters Mobile at the juicy odds of $18.90. With Ryan Sanderson in the sulky, Aldebaran Denbay starting solo on the second line settled three pegs as Flyin Time led from gate three. Going forward three wide from the rear on turning, Aldebaran
This Week ■ Wednesday – Melton, Thursday – Kilmore, Friday – Geelong/Mildura, Saturday – Melton, Sunday – Cranbourne, Monday – Stawell, Tuesday – Shepparton.
Denbay motored to the wire, recording a 1.5 metre margin in advance of the pacemaker and polemarker Kalarney Prince which had followed the leader finishing third 1.7 metres back. The mile rate 2-03. ■ Ross Creek trainer Steven Clarke’s Charlton stable headed by son Connor provided the quinella in the Coulter Legal Vicbred Voucher Concession Pace over 2180 metres with tough 9Y0 Art MajorAskmenow gelding Foregone Conclusion defeating Monsieur Flamel in a 2-01.2 mile rate. Driven by competent Goulburn Valley reinswoman Grace Bilney, Foregone Conclusion went forward from gate six to lead most of the way, while Monsieur Flamel (solo second line) extricating from four pegs ran home strongly. Divine Tilly (one/one from gate five) was third. The margins being 1.2 by 2.9 metres. ■ Balliang/Bacchus Marsh owner/trainer/ driver Robert Young has done a wonderful job with former Dunnstown Danny Bouchea-Kilmainham 7Y0 gelding Scar who notched up his 18th success (16 for Robert) from 94 outings by taking the 2180 metre La Dimora Retirement Resort Trotters Mobile. Quickly away from gate five to park outside the speedy Fremarks Peggy (gate two), Scar was caught exposed for most of the race. When Fremarks Peggy kicked clear on turning, she looked to have the race in her keeping, however Scar was relentless and kept on giving to record a great neck margin on the wire over Amour Maternal along the sprint lane after trailing the leader and using the sprint lane. Fremarks Peggy was a head away third in a thrilling finish. The mile rate 2-04.2. ■ It was a semi local victory in the 2180 metre Kilmore Ford Pace when Wallan trainer Ruth Shinn’s very much in-form 7Y0 A Rocknroll Dance-Shes Pinkalicious gelding Archaa chalked up his 12th success in 108 outings. Raced and bred by Ruth’s husband Noel and Carl O’Dwyer, Archaa driven by son Chris was trapped four wide from gate seven as Smoking Shannon led from gate for Acadia’s Jamie Egan with Nathan Jack aboard. Continuing a forward move, Archaa was able to assume control and once there was rated to perfection, accounting for Smoking Shannon by 3.3 metres, with Kutani (gate two – three pegs) third a head back. The mile rate two minutes even. ■ Myrniong trainer Jess Tubbs combined with Ryan Sanderson aboard Bettors Delight-Elysees Crest colt Le Gaston to land the MC Labour 3Y0 Maiden Pace over 1690 metres. Beginning swiftly from gate six, Le Gaston had his rivals off the bit and chasing a long way out before reaching the wire by a half neck in a 2-01.2 mile rate over polemarker Captain Milo along the sprint lane. Donttellnanna was third 5.9 metres away after going forward three wide to join the winner at the bell. ■ Six year old Used To Me-Eringa Belle gelding Avant Guard who is never far away in his races was victorious in the 2180 metre C&M Build Group Trotters Mobile. Trained by Ross Graham and driven by Liam Older, Avant Guard raced without cover throughout, proving too tough for outsider Champagne Charley (gate six – one/two – three wide last lap) and trier Dels Destiny (one/one) from gate three. The margins a neck by a half head in a 2-04.5 mile rate. ■ The Picklebet ‘Get Your Pickle On’ Maiden Trotters Mobile saw Bolinda trainer Brent Lilley combine with local reinsman Josh Duggan to score with 2Y0 Muscle Hill-Cash Lover filly Queen Of The Summit in a 2-06.8 mile rate. Despite racing uncovered from gate five, Queen Of The Summit was too strong for her rivals to greet the judge 1.5 metres clear of first starter Global Elite (one/one from gate three) which sprouted wings on turning. Poleline leader Big Rain held third 2 metres away.
Len Baker
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The 9, 2026 2026 -- Page Page 47 51 The Local Local Paper Paper -- Wednesday, Wednesday, September February 18,
MAKYBE DIVAM ONE-OF-A-KIND ■ Never say never, but it is safe to say no other horse will finish unplaced in a Benalla maiden on debut and go on to win three Melbourne Cups and a Cox Plate. In fact, Makybe Diva won her next six starts following that first start failure over an unsuitable 1200 metres. That string of wins culminated in a victory in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Flemington over 2500 metres on the final day of the 2002 Melbourne Cup carnival. So, that was also the first of four feature race wins at four successive Melbourne Cup carnivals. This Saturday (Sep. 12) at Flemington, the mighty mare’s career is commemorated with the running of the Makybe Diva Stakes, a Group 1 weight-for-age contest over 1600 metres. As intended, it attracts top class gallopers each year, and this edition of the race ought to be no exception. These are some of the stars who may line up: Sheza Alibi Proved herself to be a super three-yearold filly, winning five races in a row, including two at Group 1 over 1600 metres. Resumed from a spell as a four-year-old with a terrific second to Autumn Glow at Randwick in the Winx Stakes over 1400 metres. Has won at all three starts over this distance and is a winner at the track. The one reservation may be that weight-for-age races are generally tactical affairs, and where she settles in the run will be of utmost importance. Mr Brightside What an old marvel this horse is. To come back as a nine-year-old and finish second at Caulfield in the Memsie Stakes over 1400 metres showed he will still be a force to be reckoned with this spring. He now steps up to his preferred distance in a race he has won in each of the past three years. Imagine the scenes if he was to win for a fourth time. Hopefully, he can at least play a part in the finish. Sir Delius Already the winner of three Group 1 events since arriving from France. This is a quality racehorse and measuring stick when it comes to 2026 Cox Plate contenders. He has had a few trials in preparation for his return to the races, and although 2000 metres would be more advantageous, this would be a good place to kick off his campaign. Aeliana Three-time Group 1 winning mare being prepared for the Melbourne Cup. Finished second in this race last year when targeting the Cox Plate. She was last throughout when first-up in the Winx Stakes and based on that, it is hard to suggest she will be ready to show something until getting to 2000 metres or more.
before her two most recent starts in August. Last time out she ran in the same race as Litzdeel over 2000 metres. Caught the eye there with a fast finishing fourth. Must win a golden ticket race to make the Melbourne Cup field, so sure to be primed for this.
Cup Countdown
● Sheza Alibi. Racing Photos.
Rod Basto
Litzdeel Tracking well towards the Cup but ideally needs to win one of these golden ticket races. Destroyed the opposition on Melbourne Cup Day at Flemington over 2800 metres last year and her form since then has been good. Back in February she finished second to Whisky On The Hill here over 2600 metres in the Roy Higgins, the first of the Cup qualifiers. Since resuming from a spell, she has raced twice at Caulfield, finishing fourth over 1800 metres and then second over 2000 metres. The further the better, so expected to be right there at the business end. Shockletz Two starts at this distance for two wins, so ideally suited here. She has a good fitness base having raced in May and June
■ The countdown continues, with 55 days to go until the first Tuesday in November. With an opportunity for another horse to gain automatic entry into the 2026 Melbourne Cup up for grabs on Saturday, let’s take a look at a local horse who has already won its way into the race that stops the nation: Zakouma Lightly raced six-year-old gelding who came into his own earlier this year. Won four of his five starts from late summer until late autumn. He earned his berth in the Cup field with the last of those runs, that being a win at Flemington in the Andrew Ramsden over 2800 metres. He came from well back with a barn-storming finish to prove by far the superior stayer. His first-up run was what you would hope to see, coming from near last to finish just over four lengths from the winner. He is a legitimate chance and well worth watching his progress heading towards the Cup.
Horses To Follow ■ Over Excited Somethings Burnin’ Veyepee
Racing Calendar ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Wednesday, Sep. 9: Sandown Hillside Thursday, Sep. 10: Seymour Friday, Sep. 11: Geelong Saturday, Sep. 12: Flemington, Donald Sunday, Sep. 13: Kilmore, Sale Monday, Sep. 14: Hamilton Tuesday, Sep. 15: Wodonga
Archer Stakes ■ Named in honour of the winner of the first two Melbourne Cups in 1861 and 1862, this race on Saturday at Flemington over 2500 metres carries extra importance. First home will secure a start in the 2026 Melbourne Cup. Here are a couple of prospects almost certain to be chasing that golden ticket:
feekracing.com.au
● Mr Brightside. Racing Photos.
Rod Basto
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AFL BOOKS. Approx. 30. All in great cond. Some autobiography, some stats. EC. $30. Euroa. 0455 267 422. HH-KK ANTIQUES, radios, bric-abrac, furniture, bakelite . Sale every weekend in Tillamarine. 10am-2pm by appointment. FC-VGC. Prices vary. Tullamarine,. 0404 091 102. BB-EE
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PUBLIC NOTICES Integrating life coaching principles combined with Psychic and Mediumship. Excelling at photo readings, connecting with those who have crossed over. 1 photo = 1hr reading. Also providing coaching support for those looking at emotional support strategies and adopting new perspectives. 1hr sessions at $120 Ph: 0414 614 121
Gravesite For Sale CHELTENHAM MEMORIAL PARK CEMETERY Rare opportunity to purchase at CMPC. Coastal Rise N.130 Up to 3 Burials plus additional Cremations. Unique position beside flowering Gums and Bench Seat. Must inspect to appreciate impressive site. Inquiries: 0417 556 755
PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE TO PATIENTS OF GLEN IRIS MEDICAL CENTRE Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) Health Records Act 2001 (Vic)
WANTED
Orvos Group Pty Ltd (ACN 123 522 387) as trustee for Orvos Group Unit Trus and RAO Services Pty Ltd (ACN 123 522 396), which operate the Glen Iris Medical Centre business at 118 High Street, Glen Iris VIC 3146 (Business) are pleased to advise that they have reached agreement to sell the Business to Bupa Health Centres Pty Ltd (ACN 601 714 738) (Bupa Medical), effective 31 August 2026.
MOTOR BIKES WANTED
Patient health records (other than any records which patients direct Bupa Medical to deal with as outlined below) have been transferred to Bupa Medical, who will maintain and manage those records on an ongoing basis in accordance with accepted medical records management practices.
Not going, in need of repair, or unwanted. Cash or pick-up. Text or phone 0439 828 509
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FORM 2 Regulation 16 NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION DETAILS The application reference number is: P2026/1467 The applicant for the permit is: SORRENTO MOON PTY LTD The Land affected by the application is located at: 93 CAMPBELLS ROAD PORTSEA VIC 3944 CP 155776 VOL 9522 FOL 480 The application is for a permit to: • DEVELOP DWELLING ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS • TO VARY THE WORDING OF THE RESTRICTIVE COVENANT IN INSTRUMENT F904541 TO READ AS FOLLOWS: “...WILL NOT AT ANY TIME HEREAFTER ERECT OR PERMIT TO BE ERECTED OR PERMIT TO REMAIN ERECTED... ANY BUILDING OTHER THAN ONE SEPARATE DETACHED DWELLING HOUSE ON EACH LOT... HAVING AN AREA OF NOT LESS THAN 1200 SQUARE FEET AND HAVING OUTER WALLS OF BRICK ROCK STONE MASONRY OR GLASS HAVING A ROOF OF SLATE, TILES, METAL OR GLASS PROVIDED ALWAYS THAT NOTHING HEREIN CONTAINED SHALL PREVENT THE ERECTION... OF USUAL OUTBUILDINGS FOR THE DWELLING HOUSE ERECTED ON EACH LOT PROVIDED THAT SUCH OUTBUILDINGS HAVE OUTER WALLS OF BRICK STONE MASONRY OR GLASS AND A ROOF OF SLATE, TILES, METAL OR GLASS” • TO VARY THE WORDING OF THE RESTRICTIVE COVENANT IN INSTRUMENT K194879 TO READ AS FOLLOWS: “…THE LAND DESCRIBED IN SCHEDULE 1 NOT ERECT OR PERMIT TO BE ERECTED ON THE LAND DESCRIBED IN SCHEDULE 1 HERETO ANY DWELLING HOUSE OR OTHER BUILDING OTHER THAN A BELOW GROUND SWIMMING POOL AND OR A NORMAL OUTBUILDING ANCILLARY TO THE MAIN DWELLING” A permit is required under the following clauses of the planning scheme: Planning Scheme Matter for which a permit is Clause required CLAUSE 43.02-2 (DDO2) CONSTRUCT A BUILDING OR CONSTRUCT OR CARRY OUT WORKS CLAUSE 52.02 VARY A RESTRICTION The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before: 16 SEPTEMBER 2026 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
We are pleased to note that Bupa Medical is committed to continuing our tradition of providing the patients of the Business with convenient, high quality medical services and we expect to manage the transition with no disruption to our patients.
Cheltenham Golf Course 135 Weatherall Avenue (also known as 35 Victor Avenue), CHELTENHAM VIC 3192 RFNSA Site Number: 3192009 1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station located at the Cheltenham Golf Course, 135 Weatherall Road (also known as 35 Victor Avenue), CHELTENHAM. The proposed upgrade will improve Telstra 4G and 5G services in the area. 2. The proposed upgrade works on the existing monopole consist of: • Removal of twelve (12) existing antennas • Installation of three (3) new panel antennas (each less than 2.8m in length) • Installation of six (6) new panel antennas (each less than 1.1m in length) • Installation/replacement of ancillary equipment • Works inside the existing equipment shelter 3. In accordance with Section 7 of the Industry Code C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to make comments about the proposal. 4. Please direct comments to Mark Baade (Planning Consultant) on mark@saqconsulting.com.au, 0417 088 000 or to SAQ Consulting, P O Box 50 Clayfield QLD 4011 by Wednesday 16th September 2026. For more information about the proposal, scan the QR Code or visit www.rfnsa.com.au/ 3192009 Telstra Limited ACN: 086 174 781 SAQ Consulting ACN: 627 531 926
Contact Details: Glen Iris Medical Centre, 118 High Street, Glen Iris VIC 3146 Email: practicemanager@gimc.com.au
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