The Local Paper. Southern Cross Weekly Edition. Wed., Apr. 29, 2026 by Ash Long

Local News

AC/DC Lane arson

■ Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged three teenage boys following an alleged arson attack in Melbourne’s CBD on Saturday morning (Apr. 25).

On safety cameras, Melbourne City Council staff spotted a suspicious vehicle near the corner of Flinders and ACDC Lanes , notifying police shortly after 5am.

Officers quickly arrived at the scene and found the front of a licensed premises on ACDC Lane alight.

Swift-footed police chased down two offenders, quickly taking them into custody. A third person was arrested in a nearby laneway a short time later.

Detectives charged and remanded all three boys:

■ A 17-year-old from the Darebin area was charged with criminal damage by fire, burglary, theft of motor vehicle, handle stolen goods and commit indictable offence while on bail

■ A 16-year-old boy from the Hume area was charged with criminal damage by fire, burglary, theft of motor vehicle and handle stolen goods

■ A 15-year-old boy from the Merri-bek area was charged with criminal damage by fire, burglary, theft of motor vehicle and handle stolen goods

The trio will appear before a children’s court at a later date.

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2026

BAYSIDE SAYS GOVT SHOULD FUND KINDERS

COUNCIL NEDS THE MONEY

■ Bayside Council says that the State Government needs to to fulfill its responsibilities of funding the necessary expansion of kindergarten infrastructure across the municipality to meet growth.

Bayside Mayor, Cr Debbie TaylorHaynes , said: “The Victorian Government has introduced the ‘ Best Start, Best Life’ policy and has failed to express how it will facilitate the infrastructure to support it.

“The Victorian State Government’s new ‘ Best Start, Best Life’ kindergarten program is placing significant pressure on places, with the introduction of 30 hours a week 4-year-old kindergarten and 15 hours a week 3-year-old kindergarten by 2036.

“Council’s existing kindergartens cannot meet the expanded kindergarten hours,” a City of Bayside representative said.

“Council investigated options for creating additional places in Hampton which is set to face an estimated shortfall of 235 kindergarten places by 2036.

“The options included the feasibility of expanding Hampton Community Kindergarten and Helen Paul Kindergarten as well as considering additional locations.

“Council will now work with Hampton Community Kindergarten and Helen Paul Kindergarten to collaboratively plan for future kindergarten needs in Hampton, ensuring that existing community-run services are central to any growth strategy,” the Council representative said.

● ● ● ● Luka

Perovic

Job with the lot

■ Chadstone McDonald’s restaurant manager, Luka Perovic , is trading his regular shift behind the counter for the bright lights of New York City after being recognised as one of McDonald’s standout performers on the global stage.

Luka is one of three crew members to travel to the US for the 2026 FIFA World Cup - a once-in-a-lifetime perk for Macca’s employees, with Luka selected as one of the high-performing crew members from around the world to enjoy the iconic experience.

Working his way up from crew member to restaurant manager at McDonald’s Chadstone Shopping Centre, in seven years Luka has completed Hamburger University, been recognised by his team for his kind leadership and community building, and now has ambitions to work in a head office role.

Chapel St arson attack

■ Police are investigating after a bar was set alight in Prahran on Sunday morning (Apr. 26).

Emergency services received reports that a male offender set fire to the Chapel St licensed premises before fleeing the scene on foot shortly before 5am.

A man sustained smoke inhalation after unsuccessfully trying to extinguish the fire.

The building sustained significant damage as a result of the blaze.

Police quickly responded to the scene and conducted patrols of the area however the offender was not located.

Business champions

■ Kingston businesses leading the way in sustainability are being encouraged to step into the spotlight, with nominations now open for the 2026 Kingston Sustainable Business Awards

The awards celebrate the many innovative and forward-thinking businesses across Kingston that are embracing sustainable practices to grow, adapt and strengthen their operations.

Kingston Mayor Cr Georgina Oxley said the awards are a chance to recognise local leaders who are making a real difference: “Across Kingston, businesses are leading through innovation, leadership and community impact.”

● ● ● Cr Debbie Taylor-Haynes, Mayor

● ● Harriet Shing

■ Work is officially underway on the 12,000th home under the Big Housing Build program Minister Harriet Shing last week turned the first sod at a development on Grosvenor St, Balaclava , which will deliver 68 new homes.

The new properties are walking distance to Balaclava Station and trams along Brighton Rd , as well as local shops, schools and services.

At least 95 Victorians will benefit from the homes, which are a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

They replace 20 older homes and are energy-efficient. More than 400 jobs will be created as part of the project.

Some 12,000 homes are now complete or underway statewide, with more than 7000 families already moving in.

The program has also created more than 50,000 jobs, supporting supplier and construction workers across Victoria

Southern Metropolitan Region MLC Ryan Batchelor said: “We’re delivering the homes that families in Balaclava need and deserve.”

Local News

$211 million budget

■ Bayside Council says that its proposed $211 million 2026-27 budget represents a commitment to delivering high quality services and robust infrastructure forthe community, while remaining focussed on safeguarding longterm financial sustainability.

Residents are invited to have their say on the proposed Budget by 5pm on Sunday, May 17.

Memorial’s $30,000

■ Port Phillip Council has welcomed a $30,000 State Government grant to restore the Victorian Jewish War Memorial in Burnett Gray Gardens, Ripponlea.

The memorial obelisk is a significant place of remembrance for Victorian Jewish servicemen who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars

It represents the renewal and continuation of Jewish war commemoration in Victoria, building on a tradition of remembrance established more than a century ago.

The project is being delivered in partnership with the Victorian Association of Jewish Ex and Serviceman & Women Australia.

Alllocations row

■ Some clubs are allocated more time than they use, while others struggle to access suitable space, Glen Eira Council has been told.

Newer, growing or more inclusive clubs can face barriers to participation. The current system can feel unclear and inconsistent,” the Council says.

NICK IS MINISTER FOR SPENDING $30 BILLION

Longy’s Lampoons

■ Nick Staikos has lost the Local Government Minister, but has become in charge of the $30 billion Suburban Rail Loop.

The Bentleigh MLA is now responsible for the project for the underground rail line currently under construction between Cheltenham and Box Hill. He will will become the Minister for Housing and Building.

The change in portfolios comes as Premier Jacinta Allan prepares for the State Election in November.

Mordialloc MLA Tim Richardson will be the new Cabinet Secretary.

Ormond man

crash charge

■ Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives have charged a 24-year-old man from Ormond following a fatal collision which occurred in Bentleigh last year. It is alleged a ute struck a 16-year-old Seaford boy on Tucker Rd just after 9pm on July 4 last year. The boy died at the scene.

The driver was spoken to on the night and has since been charged with culpable driving, dangerous driving causing death and other related offences. He has been bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 4.

Southbank charges

■ Police have charged two boys after they foiled what they allege to be another attempted arson attack on a licensed premises in Southbank on Monday morning (Apr. 27).

Officers conducting proactive patrols around licensed premises on Southbank Boulevard noticed two boys in the vicinity of a restaurant just after 4am.

The boys were allegedly seen putting on balaclavas and latex gloves before police swooped-in, arresting the pair.

A vehicle, believed to be used by the pair was found parked near-by containing jerry cans and a sledge- hammer.

The two 16-year-old boys, both from the Hobsons Bay area, have since been charged with conspiracy to commit arson. They were both to appear before a children’s court.

Southern Cross Weekly edition covers Bayside, Boroondara (south), Glen Eira, Kingston, Melbourne, Port Phillip, Stonnington and Yarra municipalitoies.

57 years. Since 1969.

Police Rounds

Erratic driving

■ Police have arrested three people following erratic driving and a truck fire in Melbourne’s east, an extended follow through multiple suburbs and a quick dip at St Kilda Beach

Officers saw a stolen truck and a blue Holden Commodore driving erratically in Heathmont just after 2am on Saturday, April 18.

Both vehicles sped off before Air Wing located them on the Eastlink, near the Burwood Hwy exit in Rowville

It is understood the male driver got out of the truck, set it on fire, then got into the blue Commodore Police units on the ground and Air Wing overhead followed the car down to Dandenong , through Narre Warren , back to Springvale then towards Port Phillip Bay

The Commodore headed to Port Melbourne, before turning back towards St Kilda and losing control on Beach Rd near Dow St.

A male and female occupant got out of the car and attempted to flee on foot but were both arrested nearby.

The man was bitten by a dog during the arrest and was taken to hospital under police guard.

The male driver of the Commodore managed to keep going a short distance, before getting out and running onto the beach.

Critical Incident Response Team officers and the Dog Squad located the man, waist deep in the water. He was arrested at the scene.

The trio were to be interviewed by detectives.

Violet Town crash

■ Benalla Highway Patrol officers are investigating a fatal collision in Violet Town on Friday afternoon (Apr. 17).

Emergency services were called to the Hume Fwy near Harrys Creek Rd following report a B-double truck was involved in a collision just before 1.30pm.

It is believed the truck collided with a road workers truck and then veered across the median strip where it clipped a car, before it rolled and caught fire.

The driver of the B-double truck died at the scene.

The driver of the second truck was transported to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.

Four occupants inside the car were all taken to hospital for observation.

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

Sexual assault

■ Melbourne Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are seeking to identify a man who is believed to have witnessed an alleged sexual assault of a woman in Melbourne East on New Year’s Day.

Investigators believe the male witness assisted the victim after she fell to the floor at Billboard Saturdays nightclub on Russell St on January 1.

Detectives arrested a 22-year-old man at Sydney International Airport on January 4 in relation to the alleged sexual assaults at the nightclub and in nearby Corrs Lane

The French national was extradited to Melbourne the following the night and charged with two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, recklessly cause injury, common assault and two counts of unlicenced driving. He was remanded to next appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 22.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2026

Come Fly With Me

● ● Australian

■ The Australian Welsh Male Choir, based in Frankston, are well travelled!

They have sung many times in London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, in concert halls, parish halls, cathedrals and churches throughout the UK

They have sung in China, Hong, Kong and Taiwan . in June they are flying off again, to the Royal Albert Hall, Wales and, a new destination, France

Choir President Ian Mackie says “We are living in difficult and uncertain times but the choir are determined to make it.

“During their last tour, to Outback Australia by bus, they were challenged by Covid, creating a huge logistical problem. Along with many of the group their bus driver caught COVID and had to return to Melbourne

“A new driver was flown out to Alice Springs and the choir continued on its way. Not one performance was missed.”

Ian Mackie is confident. He says “We managed the COVID drama by pulling together, by helping each other. For this tour there are issues of uncertain travel routes and a change in passport regulations, but we will make it.

“Besides we have just got to get to there. Brian, our replacement bus driver on the outback tour, enjoyed the choir so much he joined us and is coming to Royal Albert Hall.”

The Choir is giving a performance in June they have called ComeFlywithMe Set on the ‘Flight Deck’ at Moorabbin Airport , with views of the runway, it’s the perfect setting to wish the choir Bon Voyage.

Tickets are $65 per head and include a three-course dinner and an inspiring musical send off. Available via https:// trybooking.com/DLDQO. Enquires to Ian Mackie on 0400 665 299

MAN, 72, CHARGED WITH 2012 MURDER

■ Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad have charged a man with murder as part of their investigation into the 2012 suspicious disappearance of Brendan Breen

A 72-year-old Colac man was arrested at his home address.

He was interviewed by investigators and has since been charged with one count of murder.

The man was to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court Breen, 55, was last seen in Melbourne on April 12, 2012. He was reported missing on May 9 by his former spouse, who became concerned when he cancelled dinner with her last minute via text message and then stopped answering her phone calls.

Despite a number of enquiries over the next few years, Brendan could not be located. In October 2018, Brendan failed to appear at his daughter’s funeral and his family believed this to be out of character as the pair were close.

Crime Watch

Arson at venues

■ Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are appealing for public assistance following a series of suspicious fires at hospitality venues across metropolitan Melbourne.

Police are investigating any potential links between the incidents and what the potential motivation might be.

The arsons are being investigated by Victoria Police regional and specialist units including the Arson and Explosives Squad as the state’s specialist fire investigators.

The incidents include:

■ An attempted arson at a licensed premises on Londsdale St around 5.45am on Tuesday, April 14.

■ A fire at a licensed premises on York St in South Melbourne around 3am on Wednesday, April 15. Detectives from Stonnington CIU arrested a 25-year-old Coburg man in relation this incident. He was to be interviewed by police.

■ A fire at licensed premises on Commercial Rd in South Yarra around 4.20am on Thursday, April 16.

■ An attempted arson at a licensed premises on Cecil St in South Melbourne around 4.20am on Thursday, April 16.

■ A drive-by shooting at a licensed premises on Lonsdale St about 4.10am on Friday, April 17. A shot was fired from a dark-coloured vehicle towards the premises. Nobody was physically injured during the incident.

■ An arson at licensed premises on Southbank Boulevard around 4.20am on Friday, April 17. Two boys, aged 16 and 17, were later arrested by the Critical Incident Response Team in Balwyn around 5am. They were being interviewed by investigators from Melbourne CIU.

Detectives are urging anyone with any information on who is responsible, the motivation behind the attacks or those carrying out the arsons to come forward and speak to police.

Police are also urging anyone out in the Melbourne CBD and surrounding inner suburbs, including the Chapel St precinct in Stonnington and Port Phillip local government areas, to remain alert, and to call Triple-0 immediately if they see anything suspicious.

Detective Inspector Chris Murray, Arson and Explosives Squad, said: “We have issued repeated warnings about the dangers of fire and the potential for those lighting them to suffer life changing or fatal injuries.

“Despite that, we have seen arsonists die or suffer serious and life changing injuries as a consequence of being paid very little money compared to the value of a life.

“Fire is incredibly unpredictable –those who are responsible are risking their lives, the lives of an innocent community around them as well as people’s livelihoods. It is unacceptable.

“Please – if you’re out in metropolitan Melbourne and particularly entertainment precincts this weekend – call triple zero if you see anything suspicious. That could be a car that’s driving too slowly, people behaving oddly or something that just doesn’t look right.

“I would implore anyone who knows anything about these incidents to visit us and tell us what you know before we visit them. It can be done anonymously if you wish via Crime Stoppers.”

Welsh Maie Choir

What’s On

The Effect

■ Intriguing, thought provoking, intense - are some words to describe my thoughts after seeing Key Conspirators’ production of The Effect.

The opening was stirring with mirrored flooring giving the illusion of space, with a stark white light transforming the theatre into a hospital setting allowing the audience to be within the four walls from the beginning.

Well done to lighting designer Tom Vulcan and director Alonso Pineda for creating a unique, functional, interesting multi-level set.

The Effect, written by Lucy Prebble has metaphorical levels as well. Its main theme is about the effect of drugs altering mood, mind, behaviour.

Questioning whether the drug itself or the belief one is taking a drug can make significant changes, the ethics or responsibilities of those in the trial or those conducting it.

The play questions the experts who administer the trial and their biases towards those they know are on the placebo versus the drug, this along with romance, rebellion, betrayal means there is a lot in a ninety minute piece, I think too much.

Whilst the acting was good, with an obvious rapport amongst the cast, it was difficult at times to hear the quickly spoken dialogue, particularly that delivered by Damon Baudin ( Tristan).

He was at times difficult to understand, yet his transformations and connections to the other actors made him the better of the four performers.

For an interesting look into the possible effects of a drug in trial, with a lot of ‘poetic licence’ The Effect has its merits, most notably for the use of staging.

Performed at Theatre Works. Review by Elizabeth

Semmel

Weight Off My Chest

■ Celebrating her 20th year at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Geraldine Hickey is a familiar face, and judging by the packed house at the Comedy Theatre , a very popular one.

She marks the milestone with a neat piece of crowd work before the show properly begins, spotting an audience member who had seen her two decades ago and effortlessly mining the moment for laughs.

Hickey is a consummate performer. Her stand-up style is relaxed, confident and entirely unforced.

The only hint of nerves - a habitual face rub or a quick run of the hand through her trademark hair - reads less as a crack in the facade and more as part of the rhythm.

Her 2026 show, A Weight Off My Chest, centres on her decision to undergo a full breast removal.

Hickey approaches the subject with candour, rattling off the supposed “uses” of breasts and quickly discounting those that don’t apply (breast-feeding firmly among them).

What follows is a stream of sharply observed, often hilarious material about life with a large chest: the sweat, the logistical nightmare of clothing, the small fortune spent on bespoke bras, and the sheer physical burden of it all.

The infamous “pencil test” earns one of the biggest laughs of the night - no explanation required for those in the know, and easily Googled for the uninitiated.

The emotional core of the show lands in a strikingly funny visual. Hickey describes watching those iconic slow-motion images of men running shirtless into the surf and realising she wanted that same carefree, unencumbered feeling. Reimagined with her former physique, the image becomes both absurd and unexpectedly poignant, neatly capturing the motivation behind her decision.

Hickey keeps things varied and dips into stories about her wife, Cath , offers an insightful and appreciative discourse on abortion, and shares a thoughtful, articulate perspective on pronouns—supportive, but she doesn’t want to play.

A Weight Off My Chest is a warm, engaging and consistently funny hour from a performer who knows exactly what she’s doing—and makes it look effortless.

Review by Beth Klein

MAPS BY JUSTIN O’SHEA

■ Arriving at the cosy, intimate Studio Two performance venue at The Crowne Plaza , I wasn’t expecting to find cartographic comedy to be so entertaining. Surprisingly, it lived up to its reputation as being the “funniest map-showed theme at the festival”.

Who knew that a witty, knowledgeable, quirky digital content creator could be so hilariously comical using relevant, engaging and astonishing factual material?

This family-friendly performance kept audience members of all ages laughing out loud for a full 90 minutes.

Even celebrity ABC weatherman, Nate Byrne , was found chuckling uproariously in the back row. It was extraordinarily refreshing to sit through a whole comedy show without hearing a single instance of profanity.

Julian O’Shea is a well-known, delightfully geeky and enormously popular creator with a wide-reaching presence on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram

He showed us that factual information can be so much more ridiculous and absurdly humorous than fiction.

A highlight for me was his recounting of the numerous reports of trucks becoming decapitated daily, going under Melbourne’s Montague St Bridge and the road trip around Australia to visit all the tourist BIG things (the BIG Koala , the Big Banana, etc.).

There were some very clever moments of audience participation that never fail to amuse, and if Julian O’ Shea had been my Geography teacher in school, it would definitely have been my favourite subject and I would have challenged Nate for his gig at the ABC.

Julian’s delivery is fast and snappy, his memory astounding, his comic timing excellent and his demeanour charmingly modest.

His passion for his subject is obvious and possibly borders on obsession. I would normally suggest purchasing tickets before the end of the season, but unfortunately, it is already sold out.

I will be looking out for Julian's next stint on the comedy circuit; hopefully, I won’t have to wait too long.

Review by Lucy Nicolson

Don’t Ask, Don’t Telfast

■ Justin Porter greets the audience for his first solo Melbourne International Comedy Festival show, Don’t Ask, Don’t Telfast, wearing a fabulous, sparkling, gold muumuu.

When the muumuu is discarded at the start of the show, Porter reveals equally fab, psychedelic PJs to present a self-referential, autobiographical show that swings through Porter’s childhood memories.

Porter reminisces about coveted childhood toys from Ninja Turtles to an incredible cash register complete with a credit card slider, built by Porter’s engineer father.

Porter could then play at being ground staff for his own airline, booking passengers.

Born in Texas to a military family with both of Porter’s parents serving, the family moved around a lot.

Like an awkward family photo, Porter offers a vivid picture of life for an American kid in the 90s.

Porter’s story takes a dark turn as he recounts his parents’ divorce and his mother’s turn to religion.

Mining one’s own life for laughs is a great comedy strategy.

Porter , in particular, has a rich trove of wild, growing-up experiences to draw from.

Combining stand-up with an emotionally charged, wistful, and occasionally heartwrenchingly sad narrative engages the audience if there are jokey payoffs.

Unfortunately, some anecdotes never fully developed a satisfying punchline.

The set felt a little undercooked, made worse by Porter occasionally losing his thread and needing prompts from his producer.

The patchy delivery made it feel more like a work in progress than a polished set.

That said, Porter is charming, eminently likeable, and effervescent in his delivery, and there are some clever laughs when the jokes land.

ReviewbyKathrynKeeble

The Cherry Orchard

■ The Cherry Orchard by Anton Chekhov was performed by Frankston Theatre Group at the Performing Arts Theatre, Frankston High School.

The ambitious play was directed by Tim Gilmour with Ruth Gilmour as Assistant Director and Production Manager.

Originally written in 1903, the script has been updated and adapted for modern audiences.

The play introduces us to the frivolous Lubov (Sharmini Kumar) , an aristocratic land-owner who returns from Paris , to find that her estate needs to be sold to pay off the family debts.

She is incapable of making decisions and is plagued by the love of her old home, her beloved cherry orchard and by the death of her young son on the estate.

The estate is finally purchased by the wealthy Lopakhin (Robinson Flynn) , who is the son of a former serf worker.

The family depart leaving behind the aged and forgotten manservant, Fiers (Tibor Deheny), as we hear the sound of the orchard being chopped down.

Her brother, Gaev, was played with experienced aplomb by Rob Lister . The eternal student, Trofimov , played by Dean Mitrousis showed strong stage presence and delivery of idealistic beliefs, in sharp contrast to the life views of Lopakhin , with a stand out performance by Robinson Flynn

The large ensemble consisted of Charli Sampson (Anya), Holly Blake (Varya), Fraser Baxter (Pischik), Harrison Auld (Yasha), Candice Mitrousis (Charlotta), Alyssia Innocent (Dunyasha) and Eoin Hogan (Epikhodov)

The talented Eoin also created and performed original music for the production.

The adrenalin of opening night saw the actors perhaps trying too hard at times, with unclear dialogue and constant walking around the space which became quite distracting.

The simple set design by Neil Barnett and Dean Mitrousis allowed for seamless stage movement and scene changes.

A highlight was the scenic projection designed by Dean Mitrousis and lighting design by Emma Caitlin Brown Costuming by Alison Fletcher was creative and suited each character.

Review by Lyn Hurst

Birds

■ Two women lounge in deck chairs, staring out to sea. This is Birds, presented as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival at The Beckett Theatre, Malthouse.

Shayna (Alex Hines), a wealthy fivetime divorcée, and Beverley (Sarah Stafford) , a suburban mother of twelve boys, bond over cocktails and cigarettes, as if Kath Day-Knight had met Prue or Trude and become firm friends.

Shayna , resplendent in a Camilla caftan, recounts the story of her family.

All were wiped out in an unfortunate blimp accident. “Aviation and antiques do not mix.”

Beverley , a former “three-time Ms Jacaranda winner”, is equally resplendent in a knockoff Camilla caftan, “handmade by a child in China ”.

With enormous camp wigs and lots of bling, Shayna and Beverley chat and gossip their way through the approaching climate apocalypse.

Downing margaritas, they listen to the radio and speculate about the secret sound on the SmyleandSmacki-Oshow and the “multi-sensory labyrinth” that is Holey Moley putt-putt golf.

As the effects of climate change become more obvious, the sea is drying up, and birds are falling from the sky, the women slip into bikinis, reapply sunscreen, and watch houses crumble and fall into the sea on distant headlands. The narrative grows increasingly surreal as it unfolds.

They debate whether Beverley’s fouryear-old son is waving or drowning far beyond the shark net.

At regular intervals, the women reapply sunscreen and work on their tans.

Gloriously horrific, the grotesquery continues as Birds moves into the postapocalyptic realm of comic horror.

Witty, bold, with great physical comedy as well as punchlines, Stafford and Hines deliver comedy gold in this nihilistic nightmare.

Review by Kathryn

Keeble

Fondue Chalet

■ Last winter, Fondue Chalet became one of Melbourne’s most talked-about winter experiences. It’s back!

Returning from May 14, Fondue Chalet will once again transform Federation Square into a French Alpine village, complete with 18 private wooden chalets imported from France, crackling fire pits, fairy lights, mulled wine, and more than two tonnes of imported French cheese.

Guests will be able to choose between two Alpine cheese rituals: Savoyarde Fondue or Mountain Raclette

Johnny in Top 5

■ More than a decade after being named amongst the best pizza makers in the world, Melbourne chef Johnny Di Francesco o f 400 Gradi has reclaimed his title as one the best in the world, ranking in the top five globally. Competing at the 2026 edition of the Campionato Mondiale della Pizza (World Pizza Championship) in Parma, Italy, Johnny returned to the most prestigious pizza making competition in the world after years of focusing on building his Gradi Group pizza and Italian food business in Melbourne .

Disunited States

■ When it comes to farce, it would be difficult to rival current events where the United States are concerned but Richard Mealey has taken on that daunting task in his contribution to this year’s Comedy Festival. Titled Disunited States, we are privy to a range of stereotypical characters that expose the fraught underbelly of a fractured society. The teacher handing out guns to his class, the one hundred year old café worker not able to retire until his medical debt has been paid, the vague flowerpower poet – all and each are hilariously comical but for the fact that they alert us to some very real problems in American society. If you didn’t laugh, you’d cry.

Mealey and his director, Barney Pollock , have crafted an entertaining show. Uncle Sam on stilts with eagle’s claws is a powerful introductory image but, for all the limits of the Motley Bauhaus stage, they have utilised a projector screen to comic effect and worked the audience involving them wherever possible – though I would say giving them toy guns that actually fired projectiles has the potential to disrupt one’s timing. Mealey , however, took this in his stride.

The incorporation of Australian references is biting as we see the best and worst of Australia in comparison to the US. Mealey plays and sustains all the characters well and it is often in the latent message that we find pause to reflect. As for current events, perhaps a performance at the White House might help America put things in perspective. You never know, Mealey could be the inaugural act in the new ballroom or perform at the Trump Kennedy Center, the latter having an open calendar. Reviewed by David McLean

Julian O’Shea

ARIES (March 21 – April 20)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1-2-4-9

Lotto Numbers: 2-13-14-21-30-42

Something you have been hoping for could surface about now. Luck should play a strong role in career matters, and progress can come about without much effort. Social opportunities increase, and you may find yourself mixing with a new and interesting crowd.

TAURUS (April 21 – May 20)

Lucky Colour: Orange

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1-2-3-4

Lotto Numbers: 5-9-15-41-43-44

Recognition may come in unexpected ways, and many Taureans will head in different directions. Opportunities to elevate socially are indicated. Decisions made during this period could have a significant impact on your future.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Lucky Colour: Blue

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2-5-7-9

Lotto Numbers: 3-6-18-22-25-38

A restless trend prevails. Avoid upsetting those around you in pursuit of personal freedom. Travel or dealings with people from distant places are likely. Keep communication clear and balanced for the best results.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Monday

Racing Numbers: 2-3-6-7

Lotto Numbers: 10-24-26-35-37-40

Take care in financial matters and ensure your affairs are in order. Attend to bills, insurance and important paperwork. Health and mood should improve, particularly if you prioritise rest and self-care.

LEO (July 23 – August 22)

Lucky Colour: Purple

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2-3-4-6

Lotto Numbers: 2-12-24-28-35-39

Avoid risks that could place you in physical danger. Think carefully before committing to anything uncertain. Take life at a steadier pace and allow yourself adequate rest. Romance may blossom, and many could attract the right partner during this period.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 23)

Lucky Colour: Orange

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

Lotto Numbers: 5-17-21-28-32-45

Seek expert advice where needed. A restless feeling may prompt major changes. Work situations improve, and finances become easier to manage. Ensure loved ones receive your time and attention.

LIBRA (September 24 – October 23)

Lucky Colour: Burgundy

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

Lotto Numbers: 13-17-23-28-32-44

Spend only on necessities and remain within budget. Rushing could lead to accidents, so slow down and act carefully. Romance may be intense but fleeting. Allow emotions to settle before making commitments.

SCORPIO (October 24 – November 22)

Lucky Colour: White

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2-4-7-8

Lotto Numbers: 1-3-15-16-24-30

You should feel on top of things and capable of achieving a great deal. Do not hesitate to confide in loved ones. Honest communication brings practical advice and emotional support.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 – December 20)

Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1-5-7-9

Lotto Numbers: 12-23-26-30-34-41

Good financial opportunities are present, and some may enjoy a stroke of luck. Release grudges and move forward with optimism. The future promises enjoyment and renewed enthusiasm.

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19)

Lucky Colour: Green

Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1-2-4-8

Lotto Numbers: 5-7-19-23-29-34

Financial prospects and earning power improve. Do not overlook opportunities close at hand while chasing the unknown. Success may come through the impression you create on influential people.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 19)

Lucky Colour: Silver

Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2-3-4-7

Lotto Numbers: 1-12-15-29-34-40

Personal popularity increases, and finances appear brighter. An issue from a past relationship could resurface. Tact and diplomacy will bring the best possible outcome.

PISCES (February 20 – March 20)

Lucky Colour: Pink

Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 1-3-7-10

Lotto Numbers: 1-15-23-28-32-40

Support from influential people is likely, making this a good time to ask for favours. A pressing problem finds resolution. Be flexible with travel plans, as some adjustments may be necessary. Love relationships are favoured.

MARATHON HAMLET AT HERITAGE SITES

■ Marathon Hamlet will take over Pentridge Prison , the Old Magistrates’ Court and Como House on Sunday (May 3) in a One-Day Endurance Event - a citywide, single-day performance across three National Trust heritage sites.

Hamlet (Bridget Sweeney) runs between each venue, and by the final act, she's completed a marathon.

Presented by Artistic Allsort, Marathon Hamlet places the physical demands of a marathon alongside the emotional and intellectual labour of performing Shakespeare

As the kilometres accumulate, so does Hamlet’s psychological descent; into doubt, paranoia and moral collapse.

Fatigue is not concealed; it is built into the structure of the work.

By placing this performance across Melbourne’s heritage sites, the production situates that endurance within spaces already marked by history, confinement and power.

The day begins with a substantial running leg, as Hamlet makes their way along the Merri Creek Trail toward Pentridge Prison Act I and II are staged inside H Division at Pentridge Prison

A key soliloquy launches the next running leg along Melbourne’s Yarra Trail toward the Old Magistrates’ Court, where Act III and the first half of Act IV unfold.

A final soliloquy carries the story to Como House , where Act IV concludes and Act V completes the tragedy.

Audience members make their own way between venues and can choose how they participate - attending a single location or following the fullday experience. No running required. Only Hamlet runs. The supporting cast travels by minibus.

“The question is not ‘to be or not to be,’” says creator and performer Bridget Sweeney

“It is: can it be done? By the final act, the audience isn’t just watching the story ... they’re invested in whether it reaches the end.”

Presented live, with a day-long livestream offering digital access,

Marathon Hamlet activates Melbourne’s heritage architecture and running trails in a bold reimagining of classical theatre. Performance Date: Sunday, May 3. Times: 1pm Pentridge Prison, Acts l and ll; 5pm Old Magistrate's Court, Act lll; 7pm Como House, Act lV and V.

Duration: 55 minutes, no interval per venue.

Tickets: Threevenue ticket, General Admission: $100; One-venue ticket, General Admission: $40.

Bookings: nationaltrust.org.au/ event/marathonhamlet-presentedby-artistic-allsort/ Cheryl Threadgold

Late, Late At Night

■ Melbournebased playwright Kieran Carroll advises that after four years and hundreds of kilometres travelled across Victoria, NSW and Queensland , his show Late, Late at Night (The Rick Springfield Story) starring Jackson Carroll from Sydney (no relation) is reaching an end.

Jackson i s retiring from the show to return to concentrating on his own original material.

There's one final date on Sunday May 31 at 2pm at the Cardinia Cul -

two hours plus solo show about a Grammy Award winner who married in Mordialloc. Performance

Date: Sunday, May 31 at 2pm-4.30pm Venue: Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham

Tickets: $25/$30

Bookings: cardinia cultural centre.com.au/ shows/late-late-atnight-the-rickspringfield-story/ Cheryl Threadgold

Great Mass

tural Centre in Pakenham

Late, Late at Night is directed by Robert Johnson and features over 20 Springfield songs from Zoot to the present day, including many of Springfield's 17 Top 40 American hits in the 1980s.

The work traces Springfield's Australian and British childhood, his early music days in Australia , his rollercoaster ride in 1970s America and the huge pop and acting successes of the 1980s.

This is followed by his fall from public view, his mental health demise and finally, the resurrection of Rick Springfield as an artist in the 21st century.

Kieran hopes Jackson has a big round of applause at the Cardinia Cultural Centre as a grand send-off for all his work on this

■ Victoria Chorale presents the Great Mass in C Minor by audience-favourite Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at 5pm on Saturday, May 16, at St Paul’s Cathedral , corner Flinders and Swanston Sts, Melbourne Described as ‘Great’ because of its sheer size, the Mass represents Mozart at his most daring and innovative and is a significant departure from his earlier church music. He composed the C Minor Mass to be a work of breathtaking scope featuring many virtuoso operatic arias for soprano and mezzo soprano and majestic choruses with division of the choir into two separate four-part choirs.

Conducted by Musical Director, Mario Dobernig, Victoria Chorale will be joined by the Art of Sound Orchestra and soloists, Molly Ryan , Soprano, SallyAnne Russell , Mezzo Soprano, Jiacheng Ding, Tenor and Michael Lampard, Baritone.

Tickets at: trybooking.com/ DJDIF David Bunn

● ● The Argus. Apr. 28,

Boom buying

■ Boom buying has forced prices of industrial shares on the Stock Exchange to record levels on four successive days this week.

Last night the market closed strong and buoyant after lively trading. Some stocks made leaps of up to 5/6. Rises outnumbered falls by nearly three to one on a total turnover of 116,399 industrial shares.

Penny price rise

■ Another petrol price rise of 1d. is likely to be granted when State Prices Ministers meet in Brisbane on June 8. They will then approve a new petrol price-fixing formula, the introduction of which was deferred last month.

£5 a match

■ League footballers will receive £5 a match as from today, following an amendment of the Coulter law agreed to by the Victorian Football League last night.

This increase will cost each League club an extra £360 a season.

When higher payments to emergency players and listed players are added the. total increased cost each season will be about £530 for each club. Emergencies will receive £2/10/, players on club lists, £1/10/ a week, and players under suspension £1/10/ a week; payments to injured players, which formerly were not to exceed £3 a week, plus loss of wages and less insurance, have been increased, at the discretion of clubs, to an amount not exceeding £5 a week.

Price control

■ Washington, Friday. President Truman yesterday made an urgent appeal to Congress to help the nation "hold the line" against inflation and the increasing cost of living.

The President was appealing for more taxation, price controls, wage pegging, and controls over raw materials and credit.

The Presidential message asked Congress to alter and extend the Defence Production Act two years beyond its expiration date on June 30 of this year. The President warned the nation that it was essential to "hold the line" in the cost of living battle. April 28, 1951

● Bridget Sweeney (Hamlet) in Marathon Hamlet. Photo: Sare Clarke

● Jackson Carroll stars in Late, Late at Night (The Rick Springfield Story)

Kingston fights Kingswood plan

■ Kingston City Council is continuing its strong advocacy on the proposed redevelopment of the former Kingswood Golf Course, following a detailed response to the developer’s planning permit application.

“While Council is not the decision maker in this instance, we are writing to the Department of Transport and Planning and the Minister for Planning , acknowledging some limited changes have been made in response to earlier feedback, but making it clear that significant concerns remain,” said a Council representative.

“It is our view that the application should not be supported in its current form.

“Among the limited changes include a reduction in lots from 941 to 932, some road-width changes to assist waste collection to Council’s standards and providing further detail regarding on street parking provisions.”

Kingston Mayor Cr Georgina Oxley said Council’s focus remains on getting the best possible outcome for the community.

“We’ve consistently said this development, in its current form, goes too far, and that hasn’t changed,” Cr Oxley said.

“We remain seriously concerned about the loss of trees and native vegetation, unresolved drainage and flooding risks, and the need for better community infrastructure and open space outcomes.

“These all need to be addressed before

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

this proposal should be supported,” Cr Oxley said.

“The state’s own Planning Guidelines for Golf Course Conversion highlight the importance of protecting biodiversity and natural vege tation, as does the Vegetation Protection Overlay the Minister placed over this significant site and the expert advisory committee’s findings when they considered the planning scheme amendment.

“We’re continuing to push for a development that is designed with the protection of the site’s natural environment in mind, independently assessed plans to manage flooding, and new infrastructure that actually delivers net community benefit for new and existing residents.

“This is a once-ina-generation redevelopment of a site with such distinctive natural features, and it’s critical it is done right,” Cr Oxley said.

The Council also emphasised the importance of stronger planning around affordable housing, community infrastructure, transport connections and the overall sustainability and design of the development.

“Our role now is to advocate strongly on behalf of our community to ensure a critical eye is placed over this application.

“We have carefully assessed the application and will keep working with the state through its assessment to secure better outcomes, because our community expects and deserves nothing less.,”

Togetherness

■ Local community housing provider, CHL , brought more than 260 residents, local organisations and wider community members together across its Prahran, Brighton and Flemington communities through resident-led events aimed at bringing people closer to feel more connected.

Celebrating 57 years in local media

● ● ● ● Cr Georgina Oxley, Mayor

Rod Basto, Horse Racing