Mornington News 7th April 2026

$2 Million back into the community

The Balcombe Estuary Reserves are Mt Martha’s bushland heart, loved and used by locals and visitors alike, and rich in indigenous flora and fauna.

These precious reserves are beneficiaries of Mt Martha Stronger Community Grant Program, through its support of Balcombe Estuary Reserves Group (BERG) Mt Martha, the friends group that has cared for the reserves and safeguarded them for the community since 1997.

Community Banks are special, and Community Bank Mt Martha, celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, is no exception, reinvesting 80% of profits into the Mt Martha community through grants to community groups, projects and initiatives.

BERG Mt Martha has long been one of those groups. Just two years after the bank opened, BERG was among its earliest beneficiaries, with a grant of $1000 to erect a noticeboard in the Old Campground that tells visitors about BERG

and what’s happening in the bushland.

In difficult times, the bank has been there.

After Covid halted BERG’s bushland regeneration work in 2020, they provided $2000 to help catch up. In 2024, when equipment for BERG’s WaterWatch program was stolen, a $2500 grant helped buy new equipment and get this important program back on the road, monitoring the health of Balcombe Creek.

The bank has also been there for the highs. In 2015, they handed BERG a cheque for $1000 towards BERG’s Family Day at the Estuary, which attracted crowds of local families to celebrate the reserves. In 2022, the bank supported BERG to run a two-day seminar and workshop with fungi luminary Alison Pouliot.

And every year since 2017 Community Bank Mt Martha has funded printing of BERG’s flagship newsletter The Creek.

Support the Bank that supports your community

Community Bank Mt Martha Supporting Carols by the Bay

EVERY year on 23rd December, the lawns in front of the Mount Martha Community House on the Esplanade come alive with the sounds of Christmas. The Mount Martha Carols by the Bay is a cherished community event, organised by the local churches, bringing families and friends together to celebrate the birth of Jesus in a joyful and festive atmosphere.

As the sun sets over the bay, people gather with picnic rugs and hampers, singing along to beloved carols and enjoying performances from talented local artists. It’s a magical evening that captures the true spirit of Christmas – connection, celebration, and community. A highlight for many is the arrival of Santa on the back of a Mount Martha CFA fire truck, a tradition that

delights children and adults alike.

This much-loved event would not be possible without the generous support of Community Bank Mt Martha. Thanks to their sponsorship, essential infrastructure such as staging, sound, and lighting can be brought onsite, ensuring a professional and memorable experience for all.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Board, and the entire Community Bank Mt Martha Team for their vision and commitment to building a connected community. Your dedication to supporting local initiatives turns ideas into reality and strengthens the bonds that make Mount Martha such a special place.

Support the Bank that supports your community.

Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Lions Club of Mornington

MORNINGTON Lions Annual Lego Technical

Building Kit Competition is run for students in Grades 4 and 5 from local junior schools in the area.

The winning school for 2025 was Osborne Primary School.

This project has been held for the past two years with the number of schools participating in 2025 increasing to ten.

Our heartfelt thanks to Community Bank Mt Martha for supporting this project with a financial grant to our Lions Club for both the 2024 and 2025 competitions.

Confirmation of support for 2026 has been advised by our Lions co-ordinator - Graham Read who looks forward to designing a new Lego Challenge for 2026.

The winning school receives the Perpetual Trophy and in addition to this a new Lego Technical Building Kit for use by their school.

The idea is to create non-physical and creative challenges for children. The rules are that they must only use the special Technical Lego Kit that we provide to each school. Then the challenge is to construct a Lego Model that is unique and will perform some form of active work yet remain static.

This project is designed to challenge young minds and their enthusiasm and that of their school, to showcase what can be achieved when a small team of students (maximum 8) work together to design and construct a model to the judging requirements.

Attending on the day were students, school staff, parents and grandparents along with a team of Lions to oversee the smooth running of the afternoon’s proceedings.

Support the Bank that supports your community

Community Bank Mount Martha –

A short history of the first 15 years!

ON 11 April this year the Community Bank Mount Martha, a franchisee of the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd will celebrate its 15th birthday.

Community Bank Mount Martha is a splendid example of how communities and in particular the Mount Martha community can be successful by working together. After 15 years the branch has made contributions to its community of $2 million, plus a five year commitment of $600,000 to the Bays Hospital Cancer Centre, Wellness Centre.

The following is a short history of the Community Bank Mount Martha. Every successful community and organisation has outstanding leaders and supporters. Some of those at Community Bank Mount Martha are mentioned here. To those who have contributed to the success of the Branch and who have been overlooked we apologise.

In 2009 the last bank in Mount Martha closed and residents and businesses were left without banking facilities.

Almost immediately, the Mount Martha Traders Association stepped up, took over the lease of two shops in Bay Road, paid the rent and supported the formation of a steering committee with a view to establishing a community bank. Within a month or so a steering committee was formed, headed by David Piper, a member of the Rotary Club of Mount Martha. The first task was to persuade the then Bendigo Bank (now Bendigo & Adelaide Bank Ltd) that Mount Martha was a suitable site for a community bank.

Bendigo Bank had some reservations as to whether the Mount Martha community was big enough to support a community bank. It ultimately agreed but making it a condition of granting approval was that the community raise $1 million in seed capital. In 2010 that was the largest amount of seed capital any community bank had been required to raise. At the time that seemed unfair.

Mount Martha Community Enterprises Ltd was formed, and after some very real heartburn

and anguish the one million dollars was raised with about 350 community minded citizens purchasing shares.

Nick Roberts OAM took over the Chairmanship of the steering committee when David Piper retired to become District Governor of Rotary International.

Nick subsequently served as Chair of the Bank Board when the company was formed filling that role from 2010 until 2022. He steered the company through the difficult early years and on his retirement handed over a very strong company to current Chair Bruce Ranken.

Were it not for the efforts of Barry Kirkpatrick, a tireless fundraiser and passionate supporter of the Community Bank Model (and member of the Company Board for five years) the one million may not have been raised. Initially, Bendigo Bank set a deadline for the raising of the seed capital and unfortunately that date arrived and passed without success. The bank was persuaded to extend the time limit by a fortnight, happily on the eve of the expiry of the extension, two local business owners contributed the $50,000 necessary to reach the required threshold.

Fergus Nutt (Warlimont & Nutt ) at that time said “While you are getting started and finalising your occupancy of the shops in Bay Road you can use my office as a temporary branch”. That worked well. The bank is indebted to Fergus and his team for that early support.

With much fanfare and the presence of the Bendigo Bank CEO Mike Hirst, the branch ultimately opened its doors on 11 April 2011, with the Board believing that it was going to be easy, and that large profits would quickly be made for the benefit of the community. That old adage build it and they will come sadly proved not to be the case. For the first five years the Branch struggled, quickly using up all the seed capital and having to go cap in hand to the Bendigo Bank for overdraft support. Happily, that was readily given.

However, things were to change thanks to the influence of Geoff Kidd and former Lysaght

executive Colin Forsyth. Their insight and financial acumen were a great source of support and guidance over the following years. Rob Anderson a retired Senior Risk Manager joined the Board, and he was very active as the fortunes of the company steadily improved.

In 2016 the Board was able to persuade Kerry Debenardi, a local and the then Manager of the Bendigo Bank Mornington Branch, to move to Mount Martha to lift the branch to the next level. He brought with him not only management skills but also the ability to grow the branch loan book.

The Chairman reported to the 2018 AGM that the branch had made a profit of $91,520.

That year John Schubert joined the Board and continues to this day as the overworked Company Secretary

Kerry continued to guide and develop the branch until his retirement in 2019.

Following his retirement, Gary Sanford came to Mount Martha having been the Senior Manager of the Rye, Dromana & Rosebud Community Bank Group for 19 years. During his time, which commenced with the opening of Community Bank Rye & District in 2001 he built that Community Bank Group up to be one of the most successful Community Bank Groups in the Bendigo & Adelaide Ltd franchise network. He brought with him an enthusiasm for his job, the Community Bank Model and the Mount Martha community.

The Chairman reported to the 2020 AGM that the branch had made a before tax profit of $201,495, and since it commenced trading had contributed in excess of $226,000 to community groups and organisations. The branch was starting to show what a committed group of voluntary directors, a dedicated manager with enthusiastic staff, and a supportive community can achieve.

Gary guided the Branch as its manager until his retirement in July 2023. He continues to support the branch and the Mount Martha Community as the Branch Community Liaison Officer.

Stacey Wakeman joined the branch in 2015,

after moving from Alice Springs. She embraced the challenge and was swiftly promoted from a Customer Service Officer to 2IC in the branch and upon Gary’s retirement was appointed Branch Manager.

The branch won prestigious awards of Mornington Peninsula Region Branch of the Year in 2022 and 2023. The region’s Wealth Award in 2023 and 2024, and in 2024 it also won the region’s Deposits Award, In 2025 it was awarded the Regions Community Impact Award.

The Mount Martha Board of Directors, currently led by Chair Cr Bruce Ranken, is in a very strong position with 11 Directors (three female and eight male directors) with a wide diversity of skills and qualifications.

It would be remiss not to mention two further supporters of the branch

Narelle Lear joined as a Customer Service Officer in 2014. She is the longest serving member of the Branch team, and continues to be an enthusiastic member and a supporter of the Community Bank Model.

Amye Tebbutt joined the branch in 2021 as a junior Customer Service Officer and with enthusiasm and dedication, has become the Branch Home Lending Specialist and 2IC to manager Stacey.

A lot has been achieved over the past 15 years with the development of staff and directors, which has resulted in the locally owned company we have today. To have reached a $2 million milestone in funding to our community is testament to the hard work of everyone who has been involved along the way. Often staff and directors can be seen out and about at community events.

A BIG “Thank You” goes out to all our customers and to our shareholders we say congratulations on what you have made possible.

As a community your banking support is needed to continue and improve Community Bank Mount Martha’s contributions to local prosperity.

The future of Community Bank Mount Martha presents great excitement and anticipation.

Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Mental Health Safety Net Australia (MHSN)

THE support provided by Community Bank Mt Martha has made a significant and measurable difference to the MHSN charity and to the Mornington Secondary College community.

With the funding received, MHSN has been able to deliver its suicide-prevention education program free of charge at Mornington Secondary College ensuring that every Year 10 student can access this life-saving training.

The generous donations and sponsorship for the Community Bank Mt Martha Golf Day have strengthened our capacity to deliver training across local high schools, sporting clubs, workplaces, and community centres.

In the past year alone, more than 2,500 students and community members received our Support Booklets, with an additional 1,000 digital downloads recorded in just six months. These booklets provide clear, accessible

contact details for national crisis lines, local psychologists, counsellors, and youth support organisations, helping people connect with the right services when they need them most.

The funding has also enabled MHSN to expand its reach.

For 2026, fifteen high schools have already committed to training their Year 10 students, meaning more than 2,000 young people will receive early-intervention education and updated support materials.

Increasing numbers of local businesses and volunteer organisations are also engaging with our programs, helping to build a safer, more informed, and more connected Mornington Peninsula community.

Support the Bank that supports your community

Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Mornington Community Garden

COMMUNITY groups are the heart of all local areas and enable like-minded people to get together, enjoy activities, learn and grow. At Mornington Community Garden we have been in the heart of our community for over 25 years. In this time, we have established over 100 individual and shared plots to allow members to dig, plant and grow a vast variety of produce & plants. We provide food for the local Food Bank, hold regular workshops, have local Preschools attend and get involved, and much more.

The biggest challenge facing all local Community Groups is to raise enough funds to maintain current infrastructure, build and purchase necessary equipment. Community Bank Mount Martha is a great supporter of these Community Groups, providing much needed funds through Grants & Sponsorships.

We really appreciate receiving $1500 and a Marquee with jointly branded logos as part of our partnership with Community Bank Mount Martha. This $1500 enables us to twice-annually professionally prune our thriving orchard and the marquee was recently used at our Annual Open Day to the community.

The more people who bank and support Community Bank Mount Martha, the more money they will have to provide to Community Groups just like ours. Many of our members are happy Community Bank customers. From all involved with Mornington Community Garden, we say thank you to Community Bank Mt Martha and look forward to a long partnership in the years ahead.

Support the bank that supports your community.

Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Mornington Community Support Centre (MCSC) 15

THROUGH the generosity of Community Bank Mt Martha and their Stronger Community Grants Program, we were able to purchase a brand-new mobile cool room early in 2025. With cost-of-living pressures rising and more people seeking support, the cool room has already strengthened our ability to provide quality fresh produce to local families. Donations arrive at unpredictable times and in varying quantities, so having reliable storage allows us to level out supply and offer fresh food consistently across the week. The cool room is now an essential part of our operations, helping us safely store and distribute fresh, nutritious food to hundreds of households each week.

Community Bank Mt Martha also plays a vital role in supporting our annual Christmas Day Lunch, an award winning event that brings together more than 100 community members who might otherwise spend the day alone. Thanks to their sponsorship, and the generosity of local

businesses, our volunteers can provide a warm, festive meal where everyone feels included and connected.

Their sponsorship of our Fresh Food SecondBite Program ensures fresh food gets directly into the hands of those who need it most. For many families, this program is a lifeline and in addition, the bank has strengthened our presence at community events by funding two large, branded marquees, helping keep volunteers and community members dry and comfortable during fresh food distributions and outdoor activities.

To date, Community Bank Mt Martha have donated over $100,000 to MCSC over the past three years. We are proud to call them a major community partner and are deeply grateful for everything they make possible.

Support the Bank the Supports Your Community

Shire reforecasts budget after $8.2m shortfall

costs savings shortfall of $2.3m and an increase in recycling and green waste processing costs of $1m.

THE Mornington Peninsula Shire has reworked its 2025/26 budget after accumulating an $8.2m deficit against its forecasts during the first six months of the financial year.

Information provided to councillors stated “The mid-year reforecast involves a comprehensive review of all operating budgets, capital works programs, and operating project allocations, including year-to-date income and expenditure, as well as the projected financial position for the period January to June 2026”.

“The primary focus of the review was to identify permanent variances between year-to-date results and the forecasted income and expenditure relative to the 2025/2026 Adopted Budget and ensure that we retain a balanced budget.”

The report stated a need to ensure a “balanced forecast was achieved despite the ongoing challenges faced by the Mornington Peninsula Shire”.

The reforecasting performed by the shire’s finance team identified a current year expected deficit of $8.2m, compared to the budget.

The report stated the primary drivers for the deficit were once-off occurrences with the part year effect of savings achieved of $3.4m compared to the budgeted savings figure of $10m.

Listed on the itemised report as the largest contributor was a $4.3m materials and services savings shortfall, redundancy costs of $3.5m, employee

Other material movements included unforecast inflows due to a higher than expected amount of interest income ($2.9m) and higher waste disposal user fees ($1.4m).

To offset the shortfall, councillors authorised the release of unspent funds from prior years ($14.5m), and the release of the FY26 unallocated budget ($5.1m).

Councillors took the opportunity in the mid-year update to remove income from land sales from forecast amounts, with the report stating “Achieving the current carry-forward land sales forecast will be challenging... Applying the carry-forward surplus to remove the existing land sales forecast of $7.2m will reduce reliance on these sales”.

The report also recommended the adoption of a $4.2m “waste reserve” to, in part, “To support Council’s long-term financial sustainability in light of significant upcoming expenditure required at the Rye Landfill site and reduced borrowing capacity”.

A $1.9m increase in the Capital Works Program reflects expenditure on Peninsula Community Theatre, Hastings Senior Learning Hub and Peninsula Trail Somerville to Baxter. Due to the deficit, the 17 June 2025 amendment to reconsider grants at the mid-year reforecast to the Shire’s arts and culture creative grants, Willum Warrain’s reconciliation program and Dolphin Research Institute’s education program were not considered by councillors.

Ocean campaigner believes beach cleaning contract flawed

Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au

OCEAN activist Josie Jones believes ratepayers and the community are being shortchanged by a new handcleaning model that fails to clean the entire beach.

Jones has spoken to shire-contracted beach cleaners and questioned them about their cleaning from the low water line to the high tide mark, and failure to clean the rest of the beach. Jones was told the water line is all they were contracted to clean.

Jones’ concern is that the contracts for the hand cleaning falls short of what is required to keep those beaches clean, providing poor value for ratepayers and increasing the workload for volunteers and community members to step in and fill the gap.

“The contract isn’t fit for purpose,” said Jones.

“The shire has a hybrid model where a beach is either raked, or it is hand cleaned; not a combination of both.

“The problem is that while recreational areas are being raked on the mechanically raked beaches, only the waterline is being cleaned on those that are being hand cleaned,” said Jones.

“That leaves a huge swathe of those beaches untouched.”

Beach cleaning has been a contentious issue with hand-cleaning trialled across the shire from July 2024.

guard vegetation’ The News 2/12/25).

Jones believes that the new hand cleaning model in place leaves the high traffic areas uncleaned as well as the foredunes and in-between beach boxes.

“Volunteers are supposed to complement the work of the shire employees, but they are really required to carry it,” said Jones.

The ocean campaigner who was recognised as the “Vic Local Hero” in the 2020 Australian of the Year Awards, and was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in 2022 said this wasn’t about attacking the shire’s approach to beach cleaning in general, but to ensure that the best value and most sensible approach was being taken.

“The due diligence hasn’t been done correctly here,” said Jones.

“The system they have put in place has created two paths of dependency. We as ratepayers pay for it, the job is not done sufficiently, so someone else has to step in and fix the job.”

waterline and high tide zone because this is where the majority of marine debris accumulates and where mechanical raking cannot operate effectively.

“The current hybrid model reflects council’s endorsed direction to return to mechanical raking for broader sand areas with hand cleaning retained for zones requiring more sensitive environmental management.”

Jones believed the answer failed to address the issue as to why the scope of hand cleaning had been reduced to just the waterline, and followed up with the shire.

A subsequent reply from a shire manager stated that “The Shire has not adopted a formal conclusion that most litter accumulates at the waterline. The beach cleaning program operates on a two-weekly cycle, focusing on open and accessible sand areas, with the expectation that visitors will bin their rubbish or take it home”.

“We are continuing to review how these variables influence the presence or absence of both methods at particular sites, and we are also examining servicing of upper recreational areas during peak visitor periods.”

The state government subsequently rejected a Mornington Peninsula

Councillors attempted to cut the trial short by voting that mechanical raking be reintroduced to all accessible peninsula beaches, against the the recommendation of officers (Hand cleaning sinks on bay beaches, The News 27/5/25).

Shire application to mechanically rake beaches in areas with coast saltwort, forcing a shake-up of the return to mechanical raking in favour of continuing hand cleaning of the majority of the shire’s beaches (State rejects beach machine raking to ‘safe-

CUSTOMISED EXTERIOR SHADING

Jones asked about the cleaning at public question time at the shire’s 17 February meeting with shire CEO Mark Stoermer answering “Mechanical ranking is undertaken on beaches accessible by tractor where there are no records of coast saltwort or other sensitive native vegetation”.

“Hand cleaning is focused at the

Jones believes that the confirmation that upper recreational beach areas are not included in the formal cleaning program suggests that a significant proportion of litter generated in high-use zones is not being addressed within the contract’s scope.

“This raises questions regarding the effectiveness of the current model from a preventative perspective.”

Journalists: Brendan Rees: Email: brendan@mpnews.com.au

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‘Three well-known Australians’ heads to Frankston

FRANKSTON Library will be displaying Martin Shaw’s famous Three Well-Known Australians until 19 April.

The artwork has toured Australia since 1983 garnering opinions and guesses as to the identify of the mystery figures.

Viewers of the painting are encouraged to record their guess as to the identity of the figures, and the accumulated guesses tour around with the display as a living testament to Australia.

“The painting goes to big cities, provincial towns, and small villages. It’s like the torch relay in the Olympic games,” said Shaw.

“Your opinions form the portrait of Australia in the pages; that’s what you’re leaving behind.”

Prime Minister Albanese hedged his bets with his guess, putting three different guesses of the three pictured characters.

His first guess was that the painting depicted the seminal moment in Australian broadcasting history when colour television was introduced, with ABC stars Aunty Jack (Grahame Bond) in blue, Thin Arthur (Rory Donoghue) seated and Kid Eager (Garry McDonald) standing, with the umbrella representing the black and white world we had been sheltering under.

Albanese’s second guess was the trio were the Go-Betweens after they finished recording Before Hollywood.

His final guess was Vincent Lingiari in the centre and Gough Whitlam on the right. The blue figure is the famous photographer Mervyn Bishop, who took the famous photo of Gough

Whitlam pouring red earth into Lingiari’s hand.

Premier Jacinta Allen guessed the trio were basketballer Lauren Jackson in Blue, Uncle Jack Charles sitting talking, and Julia Gillard in Green.

Bruce Gyngell, the first person to appear on Australian television in 1956, guessed in 1999 that the blue figure was Don Bradman, the middle figure was Joan Sutherland, and the green figure was Kerry Packer.

Others looked at the artwork and saw something broader such as political parties, utility companies or specific emotions.

“Who knows why some names endure the test of time while some people don’t,” said Shaw.

“It is up to the individual how they want to take it.”

The painting has now been touring for generations, with no plans to slow down.

“I haven’t done another painting in 30-odd years,” said Shaw.

“This has just overtaken everything else. I just can’t think of anything, this is just full on.”

Shaw has never let on who the three painted figures are. The closest you’ll get to an unveiling of the identities is the dog in the bottom right corner, Shaw’s trusty companion Pea, who died in 1991.

Three Well-Known Australian will be at the Frankston Library Heritage Room until 19 April.

Residents pushback over Mt Martha development

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

PLANS to develop a retirement village in Mt Martha have drawn opposition from residents who fear the project would disrupt the character of their neighbourhood.

Under the proposal, the site at 594 and 602 Esplanade and 165 Osborne Dr in Mt Martha, would have a total of 32 villas with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom configurations, arranged within a connected internal street network and pedestrian pathways designed to promote accessibility and community interaction.

The application by Keyton, the current landowner and retirement village developer, stated that the development “represents a site responsive design solution that has appropriate regard to both its planning and physical context”.

It also said it would provide “an attractive and sensitive response to the existing residential context while proposing an elegant and contemporary architectural language that incorporates a restrained material palette befitting its neighbourhood environs”.

Originally approved as a two-storey, 180-bedroom aged care centre, the development has been significantly revised under an amendment lodged by Keyton.

The amendment updates the plans “from ‘Development of an Aged Care Facility’ to ‘Use and development of a Retirement Village’,” replacing the previously approved building with

32 single-storey independent living units (ILUs) and a communal facility.

Other changes include the removal of vehicle access to the Esplanade, adjustments to landscaping, and modifications to vegetation removal.

A purpose-built community building would also feature a cinema, communal lounge, multipurpose activity space, and an outdoor area with a barbeque. A landscaped linear park incorporating a pedestrian route and dog run would link the site to the foreshore.

Other proposed changes include vegetation removal, and amending the landscaping plans associated with the development.

The original permit was issued by Mornington Peninsula Shire in October 2018 to Lendlease Primelife, the retirement village arm of Lendlease, in collaboration with Catholic Healthcare Limited for an aged care facility development.

In October 2025, council approved a two-year extension, with the permit now due to expire in October 2027. Since then, Keyton has acquired full ownership of the site and shifted its strategic focus from aged care to retirement living, citing feasibility issues and market changes as drivers for the amendment.

The shire said a public notice period had finished with all submissions sent

to the applicant for review.

“An assessment of this information will occur once it has been received,” the shire said.

A petition with 50 signatures from residents has also been sent to the council.

Among resident concerns are increased traffic, noise and lighting, pollution and waste management issues, removal of significant vegetation, which would harm wildlife and reduce privacy, and alter the character of the area.

Others worry about the impact of a new walkway to the Esplanade which would bring more foot traffic to the already busy Birdrock Beach fore-

shore, while the added 32 dwellings may strain amenities and emergency services.

“Many of us on Birdrock Ave have spent considerable time and effort over the years working with council to have suitable overlays approved so as to reduce the density of housing, environmental and potential traffic impacts on Birdrock Ave’s dirt road,” a resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said.

“Now we have 32 dwellings added over our fence line with one main entry and exit point onto Osborne Drive. This development will have an impact to the local character of this part of Mount Martha.

“The traffic report does not include any assessment of the expected increased traffic down Birdrock Avenue’s dirt road, which is the first road after the entry to Martha’s Point from Osborne Drive, to get to the Esplanade.”

According to Keyton, the “amendment aligns with Keyton’s strategic direction and responds to the increasing demand for retirement living options, proposing instead to extend the existing Martha’s Point Retirement Village”

“The site situated within a residential area characterised by low rise development and a mix of architectural styles.”

It also noted, “The proposal will result in no unreasonable amenity impacts having regard to overshadowing or overlooking and visual bulk, or as a result of car parking, traffic or waste management”.

Welcome TO THE WORLD

Parents: Aieesha & Jared

Birth

24.3.2026

4115gms

Parents: Cate & Aaron

Birth date: 28.3.2026

Birth weight: 3950gms Born at: Peninsula University Hospital

Parents: Norma & Niall

Birth date: 25.3.2026

Birth weight: 2669gms Born at: Peninsula Private Hospital

Parents: Lauren & Ollie

Birth date: 31.3.2026

Birth weight: 3040gms

Parents: Caitlin & Michael

Birth date: 31.3.2026

Birth weight: 3180gms

Born at: Peninsula University Hospital

Pelican Park misses out on electrification grant

By Cameron McCullough

ORNINGTON

M

Peninsula Shire has been denied a significant grant aimed at enhancing community sports and recreation facilities in Western Port, but hope remains that they may be successful in a new application

The proposed project, the electrification of Pelican Park Recreation Centre in Hastings, was hoped to be made possible under the federal government’s Community Energy Upgrades Fund (CEUF).

The CEUF provides matched funding of up to $2.5m for energy efficiency and electrification upgrades to deliver reduced energy bills and emissions from local government-owned or operated facilities.

Pelican Park Recreation Centre was closed for much of 2025 while the over 20-year-old facility underwent a full revitalisation. The News believes the upgrade included futureproofing the centre to accommodate full electrification.

If the shire was successful in receiving the grant, it would have matched the funding in the next financial year and later capital works programs according to the CEUF’s $1: $1 funding ratio for eligible expenditure. The electrification would require the closure of the pool for a “very

minimal time”.

At the time of applying for the grant, Cr Michael Stephens said he was highly supportive of the electrification works, noting it was a “smart future focused investment that delivers real value”.

“There’s no financial risk to council... and the design work is already budgeted for in the capital works program,” he said.

“This project pays for itself in just over six years and supports long-term climate energy goals.”

Speaking to The News, Stephens expressed his disappointment the grant had not eventuated but was hopeful at the news that the shire was going to reapply.

“I’m very pleased to see the energy efficiency program for Pelican Park Pool back on the drawing board,” said Stephens.

“While it was disappointing that council was not successful in securing the energy efficiency grant previously, it’s encouraging that we may have another opportunity to obtain that funding.”

Stephens said he believed the project remained an important capital upgrade that would benefit Hastings and the broader Western Port region.

Rosebud Hospital kiosk seeks new volunteers

THE Rosebud Hospital Kiosk, a cherished part of Bayside Health Peninsula and the community, is calling for volunteers to join its dedicated team.

Since opening its doors, the kiosk has raised more than $500,000 to fund life saving medical equipment, a milestone made possible by the tireless efforts of its volunteers.

“Most of the funds come from selling sandwiches and plenty of coffee,” kiosk president Helen Hasler said.

“We also sell lots of knick-knacks like baby

clothes, toys, lollies and jewellery.

“Rosebud is an exceptional community hospital - I’m so proud that our kiosk has raised funds to help improve services for our local community.”

The kiosk’s success highlights the impact community support can have on local healthcare, with volunteers playing a key role in maintaining its operations and fundraising efforts.

Those interested in helping can contact the volunteer team on 9784 2674 or visit www. peninsulahealth.org.au⁠

Rosebud still a hot topic for Nepean by-election

Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au

THE electoral rolls have now closed for the Nepean by-election with the VEC reporting that 50,910 people are enrolled to vote at the 2 May poll; an increase of 1900 voters since the 2022 state election.

With less than four weeks until polling day, there are still six candidates who have signalled their intention to run for the Nepean by-election: Anthony Marsh (Liberal Party), Tracee Hutchinson (Independents of Mornington Peninsula endorsed candidate), Sianan Healy (The Greens), Darren Hercus (One Nation), Peter Angelico (Libertarian), and Milton Wilde (End Mass Immigration – Reform AU).

Of those six, five are officially registered on the VEC website as having nominated with only Marsh’s nomination to come.

Nominations for the by-election close at 12 noon on Thursday 9 April for registered political party candidates and 12 noon on Friday 10 April for independent candidates.

The hot topic for the Nepean byelection continues to be Rosebud Hospital with One Nation’s Darren Hercus weighting into the fray in the last week.

In a swipe at the Liberal Party’s commitment to spend $340m rebuilding Rosebud Hospital, Hercus released a statement stating that he supported a “public-private-partnership” to rebuild the hospital that he said would “save taxpayers up to $340m”.

Hercus said he believes the residents of Nepean had been exceedingly tolerant of what he described as a “dilapidated health facility that was no longer fit for purpose”.

“The Rosebud Hospital has been starved of desperately needed funding and resources for too long, and our community deserves so much better,”

Hercus said,

“My firm view is that the resources,

funding, and facilities available at the Frankston Hospital should be matched here at Rosebud, and if a PPP is the vehicle to do that, then let’s get it done.”

The One Nation candidate said he was “shocked that the community was expected to tolerate the constant ad hoc, band-aid repairs at the hospital.”

“Everyone is tired of having sand

JESS Wilson was at Hill & Ridge Community Market campaigning for Liberal candidate Anthony Marsh. The Greens’ candidate Sianan Healy was also at the market campaigning. Pictures: Supplied

kicked in their faces,” he said.

Liberal Party candidate Anthony Marsh has continued door knocking, again joined by some big names from the party.

On Easter Saturday he was joined at Hill & Ridge Community Market by leader of the Victorian Liberal Party Jess Wilson.

The party leader has been a familiar presence during the campaign, and

was seen performing dual roles of party leader and parent while out and about at the market.

Marsh posted to social media during the week, changing a blown tyre after hitting a pothole on Eastbourne Road, talking about the poor condition of state government-managed roads.

The Greens candidate Sianan Healy stated her belief that the housing crisis had become a full-blown emergency on the Mornington Peninsula. She outlined a specific package for Nepean – from a purpose-built crisis accommodation facility on the southern peninsula to stronger rent caps and vacancy taxes aimed at turning empty investment properties and holiday homes back into real housing.

Healy was also campaigning at Hill & Ridge Community Market on Saturday.

Independent for Mornington Peninsula endorsed candidate Tracee Hutchison has been busy campaigning around the electorate.

She will join supporters for a an event “Band Together 4 Tracee” this Sunday for an afternoon of live music, community and connection at Penni Ave Distillery in Rye.

Her announcement states “Organised by young people from across Nepean, this event brings together incredible local artists and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for all ages”.

Coastrek returns to the Mornington Peninsula

THE popular Coastrek hiking challenge is set to return to the Mornington Peninsula in May with organisers urging participants to register before entries close on 12 April.

The national event, which blends fitness, fundraising and community, will see thousands of trekkers take to coastal trails across the peninsula, raising funds for mental health organisation Beyond Blue.

Now in its 17th year, Coastrek has grown into one of Australia’s largest team-based hiking fundraisers. Since launching in 2009, more than 90,000 participants have completed the challenge, collectively raising over $57m for charities including the Fred Hollows Foundation and the Heart Foundation.

Participants in the Mornington Peninsula event, to be held on 22 May, can choose from three distances: a 50km trek from Cape Schanck Lighthouse to Point Nepean, a 30km loop beginning and ending at Point Nepean, or a shorter 20km route from Sorrento Front Beach to Point Nepean. Teams of two or more complete the challenge together, with a focus on camaraderie rather than competition.

Founder of Coastrek and Wild Women on Top Di Westaway said the event continued to resonate with women seeking both physical and mental wellbeing benefits.

“We’re seeing more women realise that getting outdoors and moving in nature isn’t just good for you, it’s transformative,” she said.

“Time in nature, walking with oth-

ers, is one of the most powerful ways to reset mentally and physically. It really is the best medicine.”

The event’s impact is supported by research tracking more than 400 women, which found participants experienced a 5.6 per cent boost in mental wellbeing after training and completing Coastrek.

The study also estimated an average mental health value of $4000 per participant, equating to a potential $20m annual national benefit.

Researchers identified the combination of physical activity, social connection and purpose as key drivers behind the improvements, with benefits sustained among those who continued walking regularly.

Coastrek is designed to appeal to this demographic, offering a 12-week training program and community support through Wild Women On Top, the organisation behind the event.

“Coastrek women have always known that happiness and health

are amplified when you challenge yourself and connect with others outdoors,” Westaway said.

“The right walk, with the right women, in the right place, can truly change your life.”

Organisers say the event is not a race, but a shared experience aimed at encouraging participants to cross the finish line together while supporting Beyond Blue’s 24/7 support service.

Brendan Rees

Fire restrictions eased

THE Fire Danger Period officially ended on the Mornington Peninsula at 1am on Tuesday 7 April.

As fire restrictions begin to lift, CFA is urging residents to remain alert as the current and continued conditions can still lead to fast-moving grassfires even in cooler weather.

CFA state agency commander Garry Cook said the easing of restrictions was due to a number of favourable factors.

“Nights are becoming increasingly cool, and we are seeing dew in the mornings that further reduces the risk of fire,” said Cook.

“We have also seen some welcomed rainfall and some noticeable new growth, pointing to higher levels of moisture which will help to keep any fire behaviour manageable.

“Even with milder weather we still want landowners to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before burning off and that there is enough water and resources on hand to extinguish.”

Residents travelling to other parts of Victoria are reminded to remain vigilant and to check the Fire Danger Periods that are in place in the region they are visiting.

With the end of the FDP, some landowners may choose to resume burn-offs, but it’s essential to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before proceeding.

To prevent unnecessary emergency callouts, landowners must register their burn-offs. If smoke or fire is reported, it will be cross-checked with the register to avoid an emergency response.

Burn-offs can be registered online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 668 511.

Eagle redevelopment opponents launch ‘new stage’ of campaign

AROUND 250 people packed the Dromana Community Hall on Sunday 29 March as Save Our Seat (SOS) launched the new phase of its campaign against a luge ride planned for Arthurs Seat.

The meeting came just over a month after the state government approved controversial plans by the Arthurs Seat Eagle for a rollercoaster-style luge running under the existing gondola, as well as a 36-metre viewing tower.

SOS said it was thrilled by the turnout, with around 80 per cent of attendees indicating it was the first time they had attended a SOS event.

A spokesperson from the group, Kylie Greer, said while the Minister may have given planning permission, the

fight wasn’t over and the campaign was now about convincing The Eagle to drop the luge.

“It’s clear the Mornington Peninsula community doesn’t want this luge to go ahead and they’re prepared to fight tooth and nail to stop it – including standing in front of bulldozers, if it comes to that,” said Greer.

“The Eagle has a clear choice: they can drop the luge and start rebuilding their trust and credibility in the community, or they can push ahead and destroy their own reputation.”

Four candidates in the Nepean by-election attended the meeting and were asked by the audience to step up on stage and state their views. The attendees were community independ-

Liberal candidate Anthony Marsh was an apology and has not yet responded to a Save Our Seat invitation to be briefed on the issue.

Community independent Tracee Hutchison said she had been part of the SOS campaign for over a decade and that Arthurs Seat, as a State Park, belonged to the people, not commercial development. She said despite sustained and clear opposition from the community, the Allan government had chosen to ignore concerns including fire and landslide risks and impact on wildlife

and vegetation. She said if she was elected as representative for Nepean, she would continue the fight to protect Arthurs Seat until the decision was reversed.

One Nation candidate Darren Hercus told the meeting he didn’t think the luge was necessary and that he was appalled at the Labor government’s lack of consultation and transparency, and by their overreach.

Greens candidate Sianan Healy told the meeting Arthurs Seat was a precious public green space and a crucial wildlife corridor that should be available for all of the public, instead of being handed over to private developers. She said the public was angry and

tired of not being listened to and of seeing big business and government cosying up together to make decisions that lined their pockets at the expense of the environment.

Libertarian Party candidate Peter Angelico said the strong turnout and overwhelming sentiment at the meeting, along with 97% of written submissions to the Minister opposing the roller coaster, raised serious questions not just about the project, but about the process behind it.

He said Libertarians fundamentally oppose governments riding roughshod over local communities, and that projects of this scale must respect the voices, rights and consent of the people they directly impact.

Gambling reforms ‘fall short’ of Murphy’s report

Brodie Cowburn brodie@mpnews.com.au

THE federal government has finally confirmed its long-awaited plans for gambling reform, nearly three years after a gambling inquiry chaired by former Dunkley MP Peta Murphy handed down its final report.

The “You win some, you lose more” report was published in June of 2023. Among the 31 recommendations was a ban on online gambling advertising, stronger consumer protections for licensed online gambling, a crackdown on illegal gambling websites, and a legislated duty of care (“Murphy’s gambling law considered” The News, 22/1/2024) .

Last week Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told the National Press Club that the federal government would legislate gambling reform once Parliament returns, but he stopped short of committing to implementing all of the report’s recommendations.

Albanese confirmed that the federal government plans on “restricting gambling advertising on broadcast television to no more than three ads each hour between 6am and 8.30pm, with a complete ban during live sport broadcasts within those hours; banning gambling ads on the radio during school drop off and pick up times (8am to 9am and 3pm to 4pm); banning gambling ads through online platforms, unless people have a logged in account, are over 18 and have the option to opt-out of gambling advertising; banning the use of celebrities and sports players in

PETA Murphy unveiling the “You win some you lose more” report in 2023.

Picture: Supplied

gambling ads, along with odds-style ads targeting sports fans; and banning gambling ads in sports venues and on players’ and officials’ uniforms.”

The reforms will be implemented from 1 January 2027 if legislated, the Prime Minister confirmed.

The Peta Murphy-chaired gambling inquiry released its report roughly six months before the Dunkley MP died from breast cancer. Since Murphy’s passing, the federal government has

faced strong criticism for dragging its heels on gambling reform.

The Alliance for Gambling Reform has slammed the federal government’s approach. Alliance for Gambling Reform chief advocate Tim Costello said “we desperately hope that the reporting on the government’s plans is wrong – it will fall far, far short of the recommendations of the multi-party parliamentary committee recommendations led by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy.”

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know kids are watching those - and they should be considered part of the sporting broadcast for these purposes.

“Not a single parent in this country would opt in to their kids seeing gambling ads – that’s why it’s opt out –many people will forget or not realise, and it just puts greater onus on parents to always be logging in and opting out of countless apps and sites, it’s ridiculous. We know parents struggle to keep up with a constantly changing digital landscape, and like the social media ban, kids pretty quickly find a way around these things, that’s my biggest worry.”

The Prime Minister told the National Press Club last week that cabinet’s position on gambling reforms was not solely informed by Murphy’s report. “It’s informed as well by the key elements going forward. Some of it is about the Murphy Report, but the Murphy Report isn’t where it started and ended. And when we look at gambling as well, one of the things that I have said to some of the advocates, overwhelmingly, more than half of problem gambling is about poker machines,” he said.

“If as the Prime Minister has said, his government wants to minimise children’s exposure to wagering advertising, these initiatives won’t work. Such a piece-meal approach fails our children,” Costello said. “The live sport ban does nothing to break the nexus between gambling and sport as the Prime Minister has said he wants to do, this doesn’t change the status quo and leaves the before and after match programs open to screen ads - and we

“With regard to a duty of care, we’re considering a duty of care when it comes to online that’s much broader than just this.”

The federal government is also planning to legislate penalties for emerging online lottery products and a ban online keno “pocket pokies”.

Albanese said that the federal government would table its full response to the Murphy Report when Parliament resumes sitting.

Soft plastics recycling option now available

MORNINGTON Peninsula residents and businesses now have a new way to recycle soft plastics, with collection bins launched at the Mornington and Rye Resource Recovery Centres as part of a trial.

Delivered in partnership with Solo Resource Recovery, the new bins provide a free and practical drop-off option for soft plastics, which can’t be placed in kerbside recycling bins.

From bread bags and chip packets to shopping bags, bubble wrap and frozen food bags, these everyday items can now be kept out of landfill and turned into new resources.

Once collected, the plastics are processed into plastic oil, gas and char, which are all used in manufacturing, with nothing going to landfill.

The procedure produces no process waste and uses less energy than making new plastic from raw materials.

Acting mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro said soft plastics have been a tricky material to deal with,

so it’s great to be able to offer our community a clear and practical way to recycle them, as well as our businesses generating large amounts of clean pallet wrap.

“Whether it’s households or local businesses, this gives everyone an opportunity to do their part and keep valuable materials out of landfill.”

What you can drop off

Soft plastics must be clean, dry and scrunchable. A quick test is if you can scrunch it, it can go in:

Plastic shopping bags, pallet wrap (clear and black), Produce bags, bread bags and wraps, biscuit and snack wrappers,bubble wrap and air pillows, cereal box liners, confectionery and chip packets, and Frozen food bags

What can’t be accepted

Hard plastics such as bottles, containers and toys; rigid packaging or takeaway containers; dirty or food-soiled cling wrap; compostable or biodegradable plastics

Luxury home show’s filming at odds with homelessness crisis

By Molly Broadfoot*

AS homelessness hits a record-high on the Mornington Peninsula, The Block has begun filming its latest season in Mt Eliza. In an $11m deal to purchase the site, the show plans to construct five luxury houses across 1.35 hectares on Old Mornington Rd. While the show may bring excitement and publicity to the area, critics argue it highlights a broader issue: a focus on luxury property while the region’s housing crisis remains unaddressed.

The Mornington Peninsula now has the highest number of rough sleepers out of any local government area in Victoria – including Melbourne City. Despite desperate cries for help from the shire, local politicians and workers in the field, the Mornington Peninsula still receives no government funding for crisis accommodation or assertive outreach.

According to the Mornington Peninsula Shire, almost 1,000 people sought homelessness support services last year. As of July 2025, 75% of these people were sleeping rough – most of the time in tents or cars across the foreshore. A large proportion of these people, the shire reports, are women and youth.

Critics question whether The Block’s luxury developments are a missed opportunity to tackle the region’s ongoing housing crisis and homelessness.

Mat Morgan, the Australian Greens lead candidate for Eastern Victoria, said the latest season could’ve been a step towards building affordable houses for the local community,

instead of multi-million-dollar properties.

“This is an absolute missed opportunity. The Block and Channel Nine could have been teaming up with the Victorian government and building affordable, public housing, right in this spot, right where it’s needed,” said Morgan.

Traditionally, The Block has focused on building suburban Melbourne properties, only recently ex-

panding to out-of-city locations such as Phillip Island and Daylesford.

Morgan believes The Block’s expansion to out-of-city regions isn’t a coincidence. Rather, it illustrates a larger trend of increased luxury homes, rising house prices, and changing home ownership in these areas.

“Outer suburbs have seen an astronomical increase in house prices but also in the structure of ownership,”

said Morgan.

“We’re seeing more investment from huge property portfolio owners who are treating housing like an investment commodity not as an essential right.”

So why was Mt Eliza chosen for The Block’s latest season, and can this potentially have an impact on the area’s businesses and housing market?

Mt Eliza real estate agent Jonathan

Rivett said it is a question he has often been asked.

“There’s spacious blocks, good schools, great beaches, and a nice local, community-based atmosphere,” said Rivett.

“It’s super desirable to families in general, particularly younger families.”

When asked about the potential benefits to tourism and the local economy from The Block filming in Mt Eliza, Rivett said “I think [The Block] will change that certainly during the show and possibly afterwards…” Morgan, on the other hand, believes the latest season is unlikely to boost tourism. As a Phillip Island-based councillor, Morgan recalls his own experience when The Block filmed there, stating that the show often prioritised working with larger sponsors rather than shining a light on local businesses.

While opinions remain divided on The Block’s long-term impact, its arrival comes as the Mornington Peninsula faces unprecedented housing challenges.

In a region where more people than ever are struggling to find a place to live, it’s no longer a question of what is being built, but who it’s being built for.

*Molly Broadfoot is a journalism student at the University of Melbourne, and a Mt Eliza resident.

Community Events Calendar

Brought to you by Chris Crewther MP, Member for Mornington

Beach Patrols

Consist of passionate like minded volunteers in an area who come together regularly to keep our beaches clean. Register in your area at beachpatrol.com.au or call 0452 378 209

Mornington Garden Club

Monday 13 April, 1pm - 3.15 pm

St.Marks Uniting Church 50 Barkly Street Mornington. Guest speaker Julia Ciavaglia on Gardening in Siberia. Afternoon tea provided. New members welcome. Contact Carolyn: 0438 983 443 or Flo: 0413 037 056

Mt Eliza 55+ Club Friday 17 April, 7.30pm-11pm

Dress to Impress ‘Autumn Ball’, Mt Eliza Community Hall 90/100 Canadian Bay Rd. $15 & plate of supper please. Music by the Silhouettes Nu-Vogue/easy sequence dancing. Jenny 0494104472 or Angela 0401747988

Mornington Lions Club - Annual Charity Book Fair. Sat 18 & Sun 19 April. Community Theatre, Wilsons Road, Mornington. Thousands of books on offer priced at $3. Specialist books POA. Contact Aileen: 0413 507 000 or Patricia: 0419 299 196

Country Women of Victoria Inc. Mornington Peninsula Group 52nd Annual Creative Arts Exhibition. Peninsula Community Theatre, Cnr Nepean Highway & Wilsons Road. Mornington. Saturday 18th April, 10am to 4pm. Stalls, Raffle & Refreshments Available. Admission: Adults $8.00 Children under 14 -free Mornington Bowls Club Fundraising Luncheon. Friday 1 May

All proceeds supporting Peninsula Home Hospice. Guest speaker award-winning designer, author and cook Guy Mirabella. Enquiries and bookings: Sue Volk 0458 778 582 or book at www.trybooking.com/DKPPI

Annual Plant Sale

Sat 2 May, 10am-3pm. Australian Plants

Society Mornington Peninsula are holding their Annual Native Plant Sale at the Peninsula Community Theatre 91 Wilsons Rd Mornington. Free entry, professional advice, kid’s corner, free talks pruning & propagating.

Mornington Peninsula Choral Festival 2026

We invite all School and Community Choirs to register for this year’s Festival. 1st, 3rd & 4th June from 7pm - 8.30pm. Peninsula Community Theatre Wilsons Rd Mornington. Contact Trudi: 0406 678 261 or www.mpchoralfestival.com.au

Volunteer Drivers

25-seater bus drivers, 1 or 2 days/week. Suit retirees or those on JobSeeker. LR, MR or HR licence is a requirement. Phone Tim at Peninsula Transport Assist to find out more: (03) 9708 8241. Or email: info@peninsulatransportassist.org

Peninsula Prostate Cancer Support Group

Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month at The Bays Wellness Centre, 262 Main Street Mornington at 7.00pm. We support men, their partners and carers who have prostate cancer; especially those newly diagnosed. Ph: 0422 608 345

Mornington Peninsula Family History Society’s resource library is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at the Frankston South Community Centre, Towerhill Rd. Volunteers on duty to help you with your research or get you started. www.mpfhs.org or call 9783 7058.

Mount Eliza Combined Probus Club

Join us every second Monday of the month at 9.45 am at the Uniting Church, Canadian Bay Rd, Mount Eliza. Enjoy Guest speakers ,Interest Groups, Friendship and Refreshments. Contact Theresa Weiss, President: 0488 085 755

Chatty Cafe - coffee and chat

Find tables at: Dava Hotel, Mornington Community House, Dreamer Cafe, Room Next Door, Pantry House, Bentons Square. For further info call Janet on 0423 510 043 or go to www.chattycafeaustralia.org.au

Mount Martha House

Wednesdays 6.45pm - 9.30pm. The Mankind Project hosts a confidential, non-judgmental space for men to offer support, tools to help build resilience, self-confidence and find your purpose. Contact program facilitator Chris: 0400 614 065 https://mountmarthahouse.com.au/activities/ social-connection/

Mornington Courthouse Visitor Centre is seeking additional volunteers. Interested in Tourism and interacting with Vistors? This would suit! We provide helpful resources in our historic former Courthouse. Further information: www.nmpt.com.au We look forward to your interest: please email coordinator@nmpt.com.au

Trouble with someone’s drinking?

Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone Al-Anon could help. The AlAnon family groups Mornington Spiritual Concept Meeting, every Sunday 10am to 11.30am, Benton’s Square Community Centre. 1300 252 666. www.al-anon.org.au

Mornington Beach Combined Probus Club

1st Tuesday of the month at St Mark’s Uniting Church, 50 Barkley St, Mornington commencing 10am. Enjoy guest speakers, interest groups, friendship and refreshments. Contact Margaret: 0425 750 825.

Want to make a difference by volunteering in taking action to create a lasting change? Mount Martha Rotary meets on Mondays at 6.30pm. Inquiries: www.mountmartharotary.org.au, Facebook or contact Anne: 0409 387 373

The Mornington Environment Association (MEA) welcomes all who are interested in protecting our local environment.

For more information about our activities and meetings please visit our website: www.morningtonenviro.org.au or contact Margaret: 0414 641 999 or Ann: 0425 795 237

Sahaja Yoga

Every Tuesday 6.45pm - 7.45pm. Today, worldwide, hundreds of thousands of people practice Sahaja Yoga. Now, we’re bringing that incredible spiritual awakening to you. Mornington Community House Bunjil Room 91 Wilsons Road Mornington. For more info sahajayogavic.com

Choir - With One Voice Mornington is sharing the joy of singing and community. All are welcome. Mondays 5.30 to 7.15pm, Bentons Square Community Centre. Phone Judy Woods: 0474 129 528 for further details: www.withonevoice.org.au

The combined Probus Club of Mount Eliza Central meets on the fourth Friday of each month at The Village Church, Mount Eliza. Meetings start at 9.45 and visitors are welcome. Enquiries at 0428 995 617

Over 55 and want to be more active? Join us at the Mount Eliza 55+ Club. For more info on our activities please visit www.mteliza55plusclub. org.au or our FB page - Mount Eliza Fifty Five Plus Club. Have Fun Stay Young

The Embroiderers Guild – Mornington Peninsula Branch. 2nd, 4th & 5th Wednesdays at Mt.Eliza Community Hall Meeting Room. 9.30am – 3pm. Join us for stitching, learning and sharing. Newbies and experienced stitchers welcome. Email mornington@ embroiderersguildvic.org or ph: 0402 467 790 or just drop in.

Mornington Seniors Activity Centre

Monday 12.30pm - Indoor bowls. Tuesday 11.00am - noon Tai Chai, followed by bingo at 12.30pm. Wed 10.00am - noon: Scrabble. Computer classes througout the week. 11 Flinders Dr, Mornington. Ph: 5975 3688 Peninsula Ship Society

The Society meets at the Hastings Yacht Club on the 4th Tuesday of each month at 10.00 am. A presentation is made on the speaker’s maritime experiences. Followed by lunch. Phone 0425 859 306 for information.

Repair Cafe

3rd Sunday each month, 10.30am - 3.30pm. Mornington Men’s Shed is ready & waiting to repair any item that can be carried in by one person. Cost is a donation. Wilsons Rd Men’s Shed 2/91 Wilsons Rd, Mornington.

PACE. Setting the pace for positive ageing on the Peninsula. An advisory body that represents community views and gives advice to the Council on how best to meet current/future needs of over 55s in our community. Visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/ pace for upcoming events.

Photographic Club

Looking to take up or improve your photography?

The Frankston Photographic Club runs regular activities and events including guest speakers, scoring & critique nights, workshops, social evenings and outings. To find out more go to www.frankstonphotoclub.com.au

Mt Martha Seniors Group

Thursdays 1 - 4pm. Mt Martha Community House. Happy company, free lunches, cards, carpet bowls and bus trips. Community bus available for pick up and return. Call Jim 0468 540 044 or Dave 0427 188 896

Join 2nd Mornington Sea Scouts! Scouting actively engages and supports young people aged 5-25 in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society. We offer fun and challenging outdoor activity programs. email: groupleader@2ndmornington.org

Mornington Lions Club

New member interest welcome. Meeting the 2nd and 4th Tuesday each month. Fundraising for local community projects our primary focus. Contact: Patricia 0419 299 196

Mount Martha Rotary

Want to make a difference by volunteering in taking action to create a lasting change? Mount

Martha Rotary meets on Mondays at 6.30pm. Inquiries: www.mountmartharotary.org.au, Facebook or contact Anne on 0409 387 373

Mornington Peninsula Community Dog Club

Every Saturday morning at Citation Oval, Mt Martha. Beginners class is at 10.15am.Train your dog to listen to you and be obedient through fun and games. For info: www.mpcdogclub.org.au

Mornington’s Old Post Office Museum Corner Main St & Esplanade. View how your forebears lived. Visit website: morningtondistricthistory.org.au for opening times, research requests and newsletter. Enjoy coffee and hear our guest speakers at St. Marks Church 10.30am 2nd Tues monthly.

Combined Mornington Probus The Club meets at the Mornington Civic Bowls Club, Dunns Road, Mornington.1st Friday of the month at 9.30am for a 10.00am start, except for January. Interesting speakers and outings. Call 0491 634 456 for further information.

Mt Martha House Community Garden

Join us every Thursday 1-3pm for gardening, sharing, learning & cuppas. All abilities welcomed by this friendly group. Visit anytime for picking from the garden or donating/ collecting at our Shareshelf. www.mmhcgarden.org or contact hello@mmhcgarden.org

BERG Mt Martha is a bushland friends group for the Balcombe Estuary Reserves, Mt Martha. Working bees on Sunday, Wednesday and Friday mornings, along with Waterwatch and Estuary watch. For more information Ph: 0447 160 288 info@berg.org.au, www.berg.org.au

Join the fun!

Volunteer at a Family Life Op Shop. Make new friends. Lend your knowledge & learn new skills. No specific experience necessary. To find out more or to express your interest call 03 8599 5433 or visit familylife.com.au/volunteer

Crazy Patches Mt. Martha/Mornington

Join our friendly group of crafters. Bring your own patchwork, needlecraft, knitting etc. Tuesday nights 7pm-9pm and last Saturday of the month. Patchwork classes are available. Bring a friend. Call Chris on 0439 652 443

Bentons Square Community Centre (BSCC) “SoACE” Social Access Community Enjoyment. Encouraging people of all ages to join this group for the opportunity for social connections and participation. Activities and games, cuppa and a chat. Thursdays. Ph: 5977 2468.

Mount Martha House Historical Collection protects and preserves the history of this wonderful building. Visit the WRAAC museum. Open on request, or Tuesdays and Fridays: 10 -2 pm. Tours third Wednesday of each month: 11.30 am. Booking required: 5974 2297

Bunarong Bushwalking Club

Explore the great outdoors with a local walking group. Bunarong Bushwalking Club members enjoy walks on Sundays and Wednesdays. For more information please contact us via our Facebook page and website: www.bunarongbushwalkingclub.com.au

Mount Martha Men’s Probus Club

Mount Martha Men’s Probus Group, meet monthly, for further details go to our new web site: mount martha men’s probus club, and click on the link. For further details contact: Ron on 0407 327 470.

Mornington Life Activities Club

Activities across the Peninsula and beyond, including, dineouts, indoor games, trivia nights, cinema, music evenings, special functions, book clubs, day and weekend trips, walking, golf, table tennis, cycling. Contact Rhonda (email) membership@lifemornington.org.au.

Biala Peninsula

Offering new service delivery options for children with disabilities, birth to 12 years and their families - online, telepractice, home program packs and telephone counselling and support. Phone 5975 1820 for information.

Mornington TOWN Club

Take Off Weight Naturally, group discussion and friendly, supportive fellow-members. To weigh in from 8-30 phone Ruth on 0409 942 153 or Barb: 0419 533 755 afternoons or evenings. Meeting time 8.30 am on Wednesday mornings, at the Mornington Civic Bowls Club, Dunns Road, Mornington

Seniors Loving Life!

Care you can trust at Summerset Cranbourne North

FINDING the right care for a loved one can be overwhelming. That's where Summerset's guide to care can help.

Summerset’s six-point guide to aged care is designed to help step individuals and their families through the process of finding and accessing aged care, including

1. How to identify when care may be needed, and how to have that conversation with your loved one

2. How to get an assessment and what information that provides

3. The finances of care, including working out

your budget and what government subsidies you may be eligible for

4. Finding the right home and what to look out for

5. Demystifying admission agreements and the costs of care

6. The importance of making their new place feel like home.

The full Guide to Care complete with videos and useful links is available at www.summerset.com.au/guide-to-care

Care at Summerset Cranbourne North Residents in Summerset’s brand-new

Cranbourne North residential aged care home will experience comfort, privacy, and community in the thoughtfully designed care suites, available to move in from 8 April 2026.

Each care suite is a welcoming retreat featuring a stylish private ensuite, a kingsingle bed, and quality armchair together with built-in storage, double glazing, and split air system for year-round comfort.

Person-centered care is the cornerstone of Summerset’s approach to care and is lived daily by all staff. Meeting with the Summerset team is valuable to discuss the care plan

tailored to your loved one’s needs. Summerset welcomes you to visit the village as often as you like to familiarise yourself and get to know the community. Make an appointment with the Care Team to discuss your circumstances and the care Summerset could provide.

If you are looking at care options, contact Summerset Cranbourne North on 03 7068 5641 to book a tour

When living at home is no longer the best option, you need a place with care you can trust.

Our brand-new residential aged care home at Summerset Cranbourne North offers residents exactly that.

Designed around a modern small household model, our four households of 18 care suites provide a warm, homely environment focused on wellbeing.

For those who don’t yet need aged care but could use a little extra help with everyday tasks, our assisted living apartments offer the perfect blend of independence and support.

Assisted living apartments are available now, and care suites are available from 8 April. Explore your options at our upcoming open days - a relaxed way to experience the village, meet the team and learn more about care at Summerset Cranbourne North.

Care you can trust.

Care and assisted living open days

Throughout April: Fri 10, Sat 11, Fri 17, Sat 18 10am to 2pm, tours every half hour

Summerset Cranbourne North 98 Mannavue Boulevard, Cranbourne North 03 7068 5642 | cranbourne.sales@summerset.com.au

A family owned business from humble beginnings

WHEN Shane and Max Kelly opted for a career change in the 1990’s, they had no idea that one day, they would become the leading force behind significant change in the Aged and Disability sector.

Together, they chose to become qualified carers to help people in their community living with a disability. They soon noticed a gap in the industry along the Mornington Peninsula, and from a spare room in their Rye home, After-Care was born.

Today, After-Care is a multi-awardwinning company that encompasses strong family and community values which proudly support many local sporting and community groups.

After-Care, a registered NDIS Support Provider and Register Provider of Home Care Packages continue to deliver high-quality in-home support to hundreds of clients living with ageing needs and disabilities each week, so that they can remain living independently in their home and community.

With a dedicated family of Coordinators, Care Managers and Support Workers, After-Care delivers services to all of Southeast Melbourne, as far as Ringwood.

When you choose After-Care to provide your services, you will get:

• Individualised support. tailored to your personal preferences and needs

• A dedicated Care Manager who will visit you in your home and learn about you as a person

• Support Workers who are fully trained and uphold the After-Care family values

• Support when you need it. including after-hours

• High-Quality, safe care

• Assistance with complex health needs

Assistance with keeping your garden beautiful and safe

Our clients and staff say that they feel supported always, and part of the After-Care family.

So what are you waiting for? “Let our family help your family.”

For more information visit www.after-care.com.au.

Bayside beauty for a relaxed lifestyle

STANDING proudly on a substantial corner block, this immaculate residence offers an exceptional outlook across the verdant surrounds and the bay, along with generously proportioned interiors that boast clean lines, high ceilings, and a natural, calming palette.

Abundant large-scale glazing allows you to take in the beautiful views, while indoor and

HOME ESSENTIALS

outdoor living zones ensure there’s ample space for the family and for entertaining.

Set in a peaceful location just minutes to McCrae beach and shopping plaza, and a short distance to freeway access.

- Stone kitchen has quality appliances, island seating, walk-in pantry

- Expansive main living/dining with gas log fire, ceiling fan and views

- Large upper deck for alfresco entertaining with superb bay views

- Main bedroom with walk-in robe, stylish ensuite bathroom, ceiling fan

- Ground floor family room opens to large covered deck and in-ground spa

- 2 spacious robed bedrooms, upstairs fitted study, plus powder room

ADDRESS: 1 View Point Road, McCrae FOR SALE: $2.2m - $2.4m DESCRIPTION: 3 beds, 2 bath, 2 car, 277m2 AGENT: Grant McConnell - 0407 515 078, Belle Property Dromana, 215 Point Nepean Road, Dromana, 5987 1999

- Full family bathroom, fitted laundry with garden access, ducted vac

- Instant hot water system, electric panel heaters in bedrooms, RC/AC

- Double garage with storage, double gates to garden for vehicle storage

- Extensive wraparound garden with easycare landscaping, water features.n

Coastal home with Unrivalled Views

Positioned

Uninterrupted Views, Guaranteed for LifeLandmark Olivers Hill Residence

Built during an era when Olivers Hill was sought after by Melbourne's established families, this Art Deco gem has stood as a landmark of the hillside for nearly a century.

13 KARINA STREET, FRANKSTON SOUTH

CLASS, LUXURY AND BROAD BAY VIEWS!

Modern luxury meets sublime family living in this flawless 6 bedroom home featuring a sparkling inground pool, first-class alfresco entertaining area, landscaped gardens and bay and city skyline views. Zoned for Frankston High and Derinya primary, the home features oak floors, cathedral ceilings, huge open plan main living area, a kitchen finished in matt Caesarstone concrete benchtops and V-ZUG appliances, children’s lounge, main bedroom with courtyard garden and double garage with electric car charger. Land size 2,795sqm approx.

41 SUMMIT ROAD, FRANKSTON

This graceful 5 bedroom weatherboard offers the space and tranquility you desire. Embraced by elegant gardens, the floorplan wraps around an enormous central alfresco deck featuring a charming main lounge, impressive granite kitchen, adjoining dining/family room and an indulgent upper level parents’ suite with space to lounge and glimpses of the bay. Overport Primary, Frankston High, Foot St cafés, the botanic gardens, hospital, Monash University, Frankston CBD, and the beach are all minutes away. Land size 689sqm approx.

$3,195,000 - $3,395,000

The Guide

TOP PICKS OF THE WEEK

SUNDAY

CAPER CREW

ABC FAMILY, 7.45pm

FRIDAY A NEW ANZAC

SBS, 8.30pm

In following the redevelopment of the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, this fascinating four-part series examines the unique purpose of the national monument and its enduring impact on society. First conceived in 1916 as a tribute to the ANZACs buried on the other side of the world, the combined memorial, museum and archive is the only institution of its kind in the world. An immense expansion project has been underway in recent years, with cameras documenting the construction and curation of a new gallery.

A seriously good time awaits in this high-energy kids’ adventure comedy that puts a childhood spin on the classic heist caper. It’s set in sleepy Woodspring, a town best known for the theft of a gold meteorite called “The Nug” from its planetarium 27 years ago. The action follows siblings Amelia and Kai Delaney (Isabella Zhang and Luka Sero) after their treasure-hunting grandmother Queenie (Tina Bursill) returns. With the mayor (Annie Maynard) posting a $100,000 reward for information about The Nug, Queenie is assembling a new crew.

Thursday, April 9

MONDAY

MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT

NINE, 7.30pm

There’s been mere days for viewers to recover from this year’s final vows –and a moment that will go down in Married at First Sight the participants, this reunion is already one month down the track. Of course, one episode isn’t enough to contain all the drama; after last night’s dinner party, the conflict is still simmering.

A communal couch session and gentle guidance from experts Alessandra Rampolla, John Aiken and the late Mel Schilling (right) ought to calm everything down, right?

Wrong. Accusations fly as the cast watches videos of their time on the show and delve into their actions.

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (7)

TUESDAY

JUDGMENT:

CASES THAT CHANGED AUSTRALIA

ABC TV, 8.40pm

It takes a lot of courage to create change, and the brave Australians in this four-part docuseries have it in spades. Each took their personal battle to the High Court of Australia, creating constitutional turning points in their quest for justice. In this episode, Rodney Croome and Nick Toonen (above) were just 23 years old when they walked into a Hobart police station in the early ’90s and sparked a campaign to decriminalise homosexuality in Tasmania.

NINE (9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs, R) 10.30 The Weekly. (PGls, R) 11.00 Creative Types. (PG, R) 11.30 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ms, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Frauds. (Mal, R) 1.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.20 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. 8.00 Back Roads: Gayndah, Qld. 8.30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli: David Hallberg. (Final) Virginia Trioli meets with David Hallberg.

9.00 The Piano. (PG, R) Presented by Amanda Keller.

9.50 The Matter Of Facts: The Truth According To AI. (Final, PG, R)

10.40 ABC Late News. 10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PG, R) 11.55 Long Lost Family. (R) 12.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.30 Unforgotten. (Mlv, R) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Matched. (PG, R) 10.05 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 10.55 DNA Journey. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secret World Of Snacks. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Treasures With Bettany Hughes: Rhodes – Island Of Light. (PG) Bettany Hughes explores the Greek island of Rhodes.

8.30 Our Medicine. (PGa, R) Keisha gets results back from her recent GP assessment.

9.45 Riot Women. Nisha grapples with a toxic colleague. 10.55 SBS World News Late. 11.25 In Memoriam. (Malv) 12.15 Bonn. (Mav, R) 2.10 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R) 3.05 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.05 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

News With Alex Cullen.

Catch Phrase. (PG, R)

Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials.

The Chase. (R)

Seven News At 4.

The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 5. Adelaide v Carlton. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.

11.00 Kick Ons. A preview of the upcoming AFL matches.

11.30 HMP: Behind Bars: HMP Long Lartin. (MA15+a, R) Takes a look inside HMP Long Lartin

1.00 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

TEN (10)

Today. 9.00

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 RBT. (Mdl, R)

8.30 Emergency. (Mlm, R) The trauma team treats a truck driver.

9.30 A+E Crash Scene Emergency. (Mamv, R) Teen Rick injures himself after hitting a roadblock.

10.30 The Equalizer. (Mv)

11.20 9News Late.

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 10 News+.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) Hosted by Grant

Friday, April 10

ABC (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7) TEN (10) NINE (9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (PG, R) 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 12.00

ABC News At Noon. 12.55 The Piano. (PG, R) 1.45 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ms, R) 2.15 The Assembly. (PG, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 9.05 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Matched. (PG, R) 10.05 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 10.55 DNA Journey. (PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secret World Of Snacks. (PGal, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Patience. (M) A businessman is shot in a full boardroom.

9.20 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.

9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGls, R)

10.20 ABC Late News.

10.35 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R)

11.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R)

12.05 Love Me. (MA15+s, R) 12.45 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)

8.30 A New ANZAC. (Premiere) Looks at the Australian War Memorial’s redevelopment.

9.30 Orient Express: A Golden Era Of Travel. (PGa, R) 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 The King. (Premiere, MA15+av) 11.50 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+asv, R) 1.45 Nordland 99. (Mal, R) 2.45 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 3.40pm Thomas And Friends. 4.15 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.40 Ariel. 5.20 Stan & Gran. 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am

5.40 Inside The Huddle. 6.10 Over The Black Dot. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: Point Break. (1991, M) 10.45 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 11.35 Homeland. 12.35am United Gangs Of America. 2.20 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. A lead-up to the Friday night AFL match. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 5. Collingwood v Fremantle. From Adelaide Oval. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.

11.15 GetOn Extra. Lizzie Jelfs, Matt Hill, Simon Marshall and Brent Zerafa dive headlong into the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 Australian Idol. (PGal, R) The top six take to the stage.

1.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Airport Security: USA. (Md)

A big operation soon gets results.

8.30 MOVIE: The Shawshank Redemption. (1994, MA15+lv, R)

A unique friendship develops between a banker convicted of murder and one of his fellow prisoners. Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, James Whitmore.

11.20 First On Scene. (Mav, R)

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter. 8.40 Building The Dream. (Return) Architectural designer Charlie Luxton proves dream homes can be affordable. 9.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.40 10 News+. (R) 11.10

5.30 Nula. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Waterworld Africa. 7.30 MOVIE: Howl’s Moving Castle. (2004, PG) 9.45 MOVIE: Nacho Libre. (2006, PG) 11.25 Late Programs. NITV (34)

Forever Enthralled. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 8.40 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 10.30 Hard Eight. (1996, M) 12.20pm Mars Attacks! (1996, M) 2.20 The Ipcress File. (1965, PG) 4.20 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 6.00 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 7.50 Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery. (1997, M) 9.30 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 11.50 Late Programs. 5.50am Discovering Film. SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 8.40 The Magic Canoe. 9.10

Of Facts. (Final, PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (PGl) A local councillor is stabbed in his home.

8.15 Top End Bub. (Md) Ned discovers Lauren’s secret. Taya is given the choice to meet her biological father. Daffy rediscovers her love of music with Dana.

8.45 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) As the team investigates a murder, they discover a family with skeletons in the closet.

9.45 Frauds. (Ml, R) An unforeseen disaster derails the gang’s plans.

10.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.05 Vintage Voltage. (PGl, R) 11.00 Finland From Above. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour of Flanders. Men’s race. Highlights. 2.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour of Flanders. Women’s race. Highlights. 3.00 Stories From The Cities. (PG) 3.30 Figure Skating. ISU World Championships Prague. Pt 1. 5.30 Shadow Man.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Edward Vs George: The Windsors At War.

8.25 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland: On The GoldenPass Belle Époque From Montreux To The Bernese Oberland. (PGn, R) A trip on the GoldenPass Belle Époque.

9.25 Jersey And Guernsey. (R) Caterer Mim Sarre gets a new pizza truck.

10.20 Finding Your Roots. (PGa, R) 11.20 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R) 1.55 Matched. (PG, R) 2.45 Mastermind Australia. (R) 3.50 Mountain Vets. (PG, R)

4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. The Championships Day 2, Caulfield Thoroughbred Club Race Day and WATC Derby Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Athletics. Australian Athletics Championships.

9.00 MOVIE: The Huntsman: Winter’s War. (2016, Mhv, R) A huntsman encounters his former believed-to-be-dead lover while searching for a missing magic mirror. Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron, Jessica Chastain.

11.30 MOVIE: Morbius. (2022, Malv, R) Jared Leto. 1.35 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Taupo Super400. Day 1. Highlights. 2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R) 4.30 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Open For Inspection. 12.30 Find My Country House Australia. (PG, R) 1.00 Explore TV Viking. (R) 1.30 My Way. (R) 2.00 Destination WA. (R)

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Space Invaders. (PG) The team helps a couple suffering trauma.

8.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde. (2001, PGls, R) A ditzy blonde enrols in a prestigious law school to woo her ex-boyfriend. Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson.

10.30 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law. (2005, Ms, R) Jennifer Lopez.

12.20 Epic Builds. (R) 1.10 Open For Inspection. (R) 1.35 Explore TV Viking. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A family considers a cockapoo pup. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A family must make a tough decision. 9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

10.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) A woman falls off a balcony while retrieving a cat. 11.30 Elsbeth. (PGalv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Race For The Planet. 2.50 Forged In Fire. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Mastermind Aust. 6.45 The Food That Built The World. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. 8.30 Icons Unearthed: Transformers. 10.20 History’s Greatest Heists With Pierce Brosnan. Midnight WWE Legends. 1.40 Stacey Dooley: Are You Ready For War? 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.15 Peter Rabbit. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School. 3.30 Zog. 3.55 Odd Squad. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.35 Little J And Big Cuz. 5.10 Tiddler. 5.35 Super Monsters. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.50 Chopped Jnr. 9.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Discovering Film. 6.35 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 8.25 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 10.50 Close. (2022, M, Dutch, English, Flemish, French) 12.45pm

Captive Heart. (1946, PG) 3.00 MOVIE: Cairo Road. (1950, PG) 5.00 MOVIE: Agatha Christie’s Murder On The Orient Express. (1974, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: U.S. Marshals. (1998, M) 10.10 TBA. 12.30am Late Programs. 9GEM (92) 7TWO (72) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. 8 Hours of Bahrain. H’lights. 9.00 Big Rigs Of Oz. 9.30 Seinfeld. 10.00 MOVIE: The Man In The Moon. (1991, PG) Noon Tennis. Billie Jean King Cup. Qualifiers. Aust v Great Britain. 7.00 Seinfeld. 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore. (2022, M) 10.20 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 My Road To Adventure. 2.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. USA Speedweek. Final. Replay. 3.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. Silver Cup. Highlights. 4.00 Frozen Gold. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Men In Black. (1997, M) 9.30 MOVIE: Ghostbusters II. (1989, PG) 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 The World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 The Piano. (PG, R) 3.30 Inside The Sydney Opera House. (Final, R) 4.30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (R) 5.00 Back Roads. (R) 5.30 Fake Or Fortune?

6.30 Compass: Surviving Gaza, Seeking Truth. (PGv)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Piano. Presented by Guy Sebastian and Andrea Lam.

8.20 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ml) Debbie invites the blackmailer for lunch.

8.50 Frauds. (Ml) With the heist imminent, Bert and Sam struggle to keep their secrets hidden and their partnership intact.

9.35 Blue Murder Motel. (PGl, R)

A local councillor is stabbed in his home.

10.25 Top End Bub. (Md, R)

10.50 MOVIE: Windrider. (1986, Mdls, R)

12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.10 The Bee Whisperer. (PGa, R) 10.05 Vintage Voltage. (R) 11.00 Georgia From Above. (PG, R) 12.00 PBS News Compass Points. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Figure Skating. ISU World Championships Prague. Pt 2. 5.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 5.30 Shadow Man. 6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Athletics. Australian Athletics Championships. 2.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 5. GWS Giants v Richmond.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Rise And Fall Of The Maya. (Premiere) A team of archaeologists discover a Mayan monument. 9.20 Emperor: Rise And Fall Of A Dynasty. (Masv, R) Looks at Livia Drusilla. 10.15 Hunting Egypt’s Lost Treasures: Legend Of The Pyramid Kings. (R) 11.05 Elvis’ Women. (Mas, R) 2.30 Matched. (PG, R) 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 5. Port Adelaide v St Kilda. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.00 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Norfolk Narco Cartel. (Madl, R) Looks inside a major police operation. 12.10 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 3. Taupo Super400. Day 2. Highlights.

1.10 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGl) The participants return for the final dinner party. 8.50 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians. 9.50 Power. (Premiere, MA15+dlnsv) A former drug kingpin opens a nightclub.

11.05 9News Late.

11.35 A Killer Makes A Call: Terry. (Mav, R)

12.30 Oz Off Road TV. (PGl, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Tribemates try to win Immunity. 8.10 The Greatest: Reality TV Moments. A group of celebrities looks back at some of the greatest reality TV moments. 9.10 Matlock. (PGa) Matty juggles a big court case and her 50th wedding anniversary while representing a Jacobson Moore colleague. 10.10 NCIS: Origins. (Mv, R) The evidence room is broken into. 12.00 10 News+. (R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning

Programs. 1.15pm Jeopardy! 3.20 France 24. 3.50 PBS Washington Week. 4.20 PBS News Compass Points. 4.50 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 5.50 The Architecture The Railways Built. 6.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Men’s race. 1am Cycling. UCI World Tour. ParisRoubaix. Women’s race. 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 Tummy Tom And The Lost Teddy Bear. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Guess How Much I Love You. 5.35 Super Monsters. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 Caper Crew. (Premiere) 8.10 Secrets At Red Rocks. (Premiere) 8.35 Animal Park. 10.00 Amazing Animal Friends. 10.50 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Roxane. (2019, PG, French) 8.15 Buckley’s Chance. (2021, PG) 10.05 Discovering Film. 11.00 Oliver’s Universe. (2022, M, Spanish) 1.05pm Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery. (1997, M) 2.45 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 4.30 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 6.50 A Hazard Of Hearts. (1987, PG) 8.30 Tea With Mussolini. (1999) 10.45 Late Programs. SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Pro Bull Riding Australia. Noon Over The Black Dot. 12.30 Inside The Huddle. 1.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Weekly Highlights. 2.00 Black Magic. 3.00 Lionel. 4.30 Stompem Ground 2022: Midnight Oil. 6.15 The Drover’s Boy. 6.40 Wild, Smart And Deadly. 7.30 Free The People. (Premiere) 8.30 Vacation Plantation. 9.55 MOVIE: Vacant Possession. (1994, M) 11.35 Late Programs. NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Medical Emergency. Noon Escape To The Country. 1.00 Luxury Escapes: World’s Best Holidays. 1.30 Business Builders. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Better Homes. 3.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.30 Australia’s Big Backyards. 5.30 The Aussie Property Flippers. 6.30

Monday, April 13

TV (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Blue Murder Motel. (PGl, R) 11.00 Top End Bub. (Md, R) 11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 6.00 Morning Programs. 9.05 Going Places. (PG, R) 9.35 Matched. (PG, R) 10.25 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.15 DNA Journey. (PG) 12.10 WorldWatch. 1.00 PBS News Compass Points. 1.30 WorldWatch. 2.00 Pistachio Wars. (PGal) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secret World Of Snacks. (PGas, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. 8.00 Australian Story. 8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program. 9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser.

News. 10.55 The Business.

The

With Charlie Pickering. (PGls,

11.40

Mysteries. (Ma, R) 12.30 Long Lost Family. (R) 1.20 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 3.55 Gardening Aust. (R) 4.55 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG) The Tower hosts a VE Day evening. 8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) Game show. Hosted by Jimmy Carr.

9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) Hosted by Greg Davies. 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 Herrhausen: The Banker And The Bomb. (Mdlv) 11.40 Gomorrah. (MA15+av, R) 2.25

Mastermind Australia. (PG, R) 3.25 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

PBS News Compass Points. 5.25 WorldWatch. 5.55 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Holy Marvels. 9.20 Greatest Escapes. 10.10 The Hospital: In The Deep End. 11.20 Hudson & Rex. 12.15am History Of The Sitcom. 1.00 Late Programs. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School: Let The Games Begin. 4.15 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.40 Ariel. 5.20 Stan & Gran. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Kids Baking C’ship. 11.10 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 8.20 Tea With Mussolini. (1999) 10.30 In A Land That No Longer Exists. (2022, M, German) 12.25pm Two Many Chefs. (2022, M, Spanish) 2.05 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 4.00 Buckley’s Chance. (2021, PG) 5.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 7.30 The Way Of The Dragon. (1972, M, Cantonese) 9.20 The Big Boss. (1971, M, Cantonese) 11.15 Late Programs. SBS WORLD

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (PGl, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) Hosted by Todd Woodbridge.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away.

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.15 9-1-1. (M) The 118 is called in to assist when a medical examiner becomes entangled in a dangerous situation during an autopsy.

10.15 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

11.15 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League.

12.15 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)

1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) The participants return for the final couch session.

9.30 Footy Classified. (Ml) A team of footy experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies.

10.30 9News Late.

11.00 100% Footy. (Mal)

12.00 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl)

1.00 Hello SA. (PG)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) 7.30 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (l) The final three compete for immunity. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 9.30 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.30 10 News+. (R)

Tuesday, April 14

ABC (2)

SBS (3) SEVEN (7)

(10) NINE (9) 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Aust Story. (R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.00 The Matter Of Facts. (Final, PG, R) 11.50 Like A Version. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Death In Paradise. (Ma, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.30

Correspondent. 8.40 Judgment: Cases That Changed Australia: Love. (Premiere, PG) Looks at a case which began a High Court battle. 9.30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli: David Hallberg. (Final, R) Virginia Trioli meets with David Hallberg. 10.00 Compass. (PGv, R)

10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R) 11.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.50 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.05 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R) 12.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Matched. (PG, R) 10.10 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.05 DNA Journey. (PGl) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Philae The Last Temples Of Ancient Egypt. (R) 3.00 Trail Towns. (R) 3.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secret World Of Snacks. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys: Zurich/ Rotkreuz To Brienz. (PG, R)

8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks at names.

9.30 Dateline: Grow Chocolate, Not Cocaine. A look at what plans the US has for Colombia.

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 Rock Legends. (PGa)

11.00 Exit. (MA15+adlsv)

11.55 Elvira. (PGa, R) 3.05 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.10 Mountain Vets. (PG, R) 4.45 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School: Let The Games Begin. 4.15 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.40 Ariel. 5.20 Stan & Gran. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. 9.10 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.35 BattleBots. 10.20 Merlin. 11.05 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 8.20 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 10.00 The Big Boss. (1971, M, Cantonese) 11.50 Dead Again. (1991, M) 1.45pm A Hazard Of Hearts. (1987, PG) 3.25 Tea With Mussolini. (1999) 5.35 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 7.30 Fist Of Fury. (1972, M, Cantonese) 9.30 Game Of Death. (1978, M, Cantonese, English) 11.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGav)

7.30 Australian Idol. (Final, PGal) The winner is announced.

9.15 House Of Wellness. (PG) A team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates shares insights and experiences to highlight living well.

10.15 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

11.15 Ambulance: Code Red. (Mam, R) Follows the work of an ambulance service. 12.15 MOVIE: Fatal Frenemies. (2021, Mav, R) Laurie Fortier. 2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30

6.00 9News.

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (l) The final two deliver their pitch to the jury. 9.15 NCIS. (Mav) McGee and Torres try to recover a stolen truck filled with toys. The truth about Parker’s mother is revealed. 10.15 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.15 10 News+. (R) 11.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 2.35pm Forged In Fire. 3.20 Kars & Stars. 3.50 BBC News At Ten. 4.20 France 24. 4.50 PBS News. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. 9.30 Into The Void: Life, Death And Heavy Metal. (Final) 10.25 Chasing Speed. 11.20 Brassic. 1.10am WWE Legends. 2.45 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs.

10.00 Waterworld Africa. 11.00 Karla Grant Presents. 11.30 Ablaze. 1pm The Shooter Of War. 2.00 Island Echoes. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Waterworld Africa. 7.30 Ocean Warriors. 8.30 MOVIE: Blood Diamond. (2006, MA15+) 10.55 Late Programs.

Wednesday, April 15

ABC TV (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (R) 3.00 Grand Designs Transformations. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs)

8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGls) A satirical news program.

9.00 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ml, R) Debbie invites the blackmailer for lunch.

9.30 QI. (PGa) Hosted by Sandi Toksvig. 10.00 Planet America. (R)

10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 You Can’t Ask That. (MA15+l, R) 11.35 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R) 12.25 Long Lost Family. (R) 1.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.55 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R)

5.30 7.30. (R)

CLOUDEHILL GARDENS IN AUTUMN TUE 14 APR $99pp (incl. lunch) COOMBE COTTAGE GARDENS & YARRA VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM WED 13 MAY $99pp (incl. lunch)

WOMAN WED 5 AUG $165pp

TRIP 2 WED 21 OCT $159pp

(3)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 9.05 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.25 Matched. (PG, R) 10.15 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.05 DNA Journey. (Mls) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 The Mayfair Hotel Megabuild. (PGal, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Chernobyl: Days That Shocked The World. Survivors recall the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. 9.25 The Audacity. (Premiere) A would-be tech titan and his therapist try to find a fortune and happiness for themselves. 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Rise Of The Raven. (MA15+sv) 12.10 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Malsv) 1.55 Classified. (Mlv, R) 3.30 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.30pm Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School: Let The Games Begin. 4.15 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.40 Ariel. 5.20 Stan & Gran. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Monsieur Verdoux. (1947, PG) 7.30 Broken Hill. (2009, PG) 9.30 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 11.30 The Way Of The Dragon. (1972, M, Cantonese) 1.25pm Brother’s Keeper. (2021, M, Kurdish, Turkish) 3.00 Discovering Film. 3.50 Thunderbirds Are GO. (1966, PG) 5.35 Funny Face. (1957) 7.30 Phantom Thread. (2017, M) 10.00 Empire. (2023, M, Danish) 11.45 Late Programs. SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. Noon MOVIE: The Unknown Country. (2022, PG) 1.30 Artie: Our Tribute To A Legend. 2.00 Island Echoes. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00

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The Huddle. 10.30 MOVIE: One Day In The

Of Piugattuk. (2019) 12.30am Late Programs.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Travel Guides. (PGs, R) The travel guides head to Hong Kong.

8.40 Clarkson’s Farm: Solo-ing. (Return, Ml) With Kaleb and Lisa both away, Jeremy is left to run the farm on his own.

9.40 Footy Classified. (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

10.40 9News Late.

11.10 The Hunting Wives. (MA15+dlsv)

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Destination WA. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30

Our State On A Plate. (PG) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

9GEM (92)

7TWO (72) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.30pm Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: My Super Ex-Girlfriend. (2006, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 The 100. 12.25am Love Island UK. 1.20 The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City. 2.20

COOK ISLANDS PARADISE

Secret Life Of The Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks. 8.40 Agatha Christie’s Marple. 10.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) 7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.

10.00 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml)

12.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R)

12.30 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Love On The Reef. (2023, G, R) Ansley Gordon. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Events That Changed Australia: Black Saturday. (Ma)

8.40 To Be Advised.

9.40 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mav, R) Piers Morgan chats with Robert Spahalski.

10.40 9News Late.

11.10 Miniseries: The Night Caller. (Premiere, Malv)

12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Surfing Australia TV. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. 9.00 Elsbeth. (Mv) Elsbeth must comb through a tangled mess of suspects to find a killer after a celebrity wigmaker is murdered. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.00 10 News+. (R) 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 2.50pm The Bee Whisperer. 3.50 BBC News At Ten. 4.20 France 24. 4.50 PBS News. 5.50 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Clint Eastwood: The Last Legend. 9.30 MOVIE: Heartbreak Ridge. (1986, M) Midnight Brassic. 12.50 Count Abdulla. 1.45 Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.40 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.40 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.40pm Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched.

Picturesque village in Safety Beach

MARTHA Cove Village is a vibrant and sought-after retirement community located in picturesque Martha Cove. Nestled between the tranquil waters of Port Phillip Bay and the rolling hills of the Mornington Peninsula, this retirement village offers a peaceful and scenic environment for retirees seeking a fulfilling and active lifestyle in their later years. The village provides a range of services and amenities to ensure residents can enjoy a comfortable and independent life.

One of the key features of Martha Cove Village is its prime location. The village is just a short distance from Safety Beach, with easy access to local shops, cafes, and essential services, residents can enjoy the convenience of a well-connected community while also benefiting from the tranquillity of their surroundings. The proximity to the water also offers opportunities for leisurely walks along the foreshore, as well as enjoying water-based activities like boating and fishing.

Martha Cove Village offers a variety of living options, including independent living units and apartments, to cater to the diverse needs of retirees. The homes are modern, spacious, and wellappointed, featuring high-quality finishes and thoughtful design elements to ensure residents have everything they need for a comfortable lifestyle. The village’s layout is also designed to promote

ease of movement, with pathways and communal spaces that encourage social interaction among residents. Community and social engagement are central to life at Martha Cove Village. They offer a wide range of recreational activities and events, allowing residents to stay active, entertained, and socially connected. These activities include fitness classes, arts and crafts, social outings, and special interest groups, among others. Regular social events, such as community barbecues and themed dinners, provide ample opportunities for residents to socialise with neighbours and make new friends. This strong sense of community helps foster a supportive environment, where individuals can enjoy their retirement years while maintaining their independence. There is also a strong emphasis on wellness at the village, with programs focused on physical fitness, mental well-being, and overall quality of life including walking and meditation groups, podiatrist to name a few. Martha Cove Village is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and outdoor spaces. Residents can take advantage of the lush green areas for walking, gardening, or simply relaxing in the serene surroundings. The village is designed to provide a peaceful sanctuary, where retirees can enjoy a slower pace of life and focus on their wellbeing.

Martha Cove Village is located at 101 Pickings Rd, Safety Beach.

Located in Safety Beach, Martha Cove Village’s resort-style facilities set the standard for modern retirees who like to live more than a little! We’re big believers in new beginnings — a new home, a new chapter, a new lease on life. We think that’s the way your life in retirement should feel. Visit our display villa and discover how vibrant, comfortable, and carefree retirement living can be.

Book a private tour today 0458 603 047 | marthacovevillage.com.au 101 Pickings Rd, Safety Beach

Seniors Loving Life!

Unlocking mobility with the Smart Lifter Hoist

MEET the Smart Lifter Hoist range, the LP, LC and LM, from Motobility, your new best friend for tackling scooter transport with ease. If you’ve ever struggled with loading and unloading your mobility scooter, wheelchair or powerchair, this hoist range is here to make life a lot simpler.

Each Smart Lifter model is designed to handle the heavy lifting for you. Just press a button, and it smoothly lifts your mobility aid into the back of your vehicle in just 60 seconds. No more straining your back or struggling with manual lifting. It’s perfect for anyone, no matter how strong or mobile you are.

What’s great about the Smart Lifter range is how versatile it is. The LP is ideal for smaller

and lighter mobility aids, the LC offers a strong mid range option for everyday scooters and powerchairs, and the LM is the heavy duty model capable of lifting weights up to 200kg. Together, they ensure your mobility aid is lifted safely and securely. The Smart Lifter range also fits into over 350 different makes and models of vehicles, from hatchbacks to station wagons, vans, MPV’s and 4WD’s.

The controls are easy to use, so you can move and position your mobility aid just the way you want. Plus, the compact design means it won’t take up too much space in your vehicle, so you’ll still have plenty of room.

Once inside, you can use the quick release to remove the spreader bar to give you better rear visibility when driving.

The best part about the Smart Lifter hoist range is that there is literally no lifting on your part required at all. Just attach your scooter, wheelchair or other mobility equipment and let the hoist do all the work for you. With the Smart Lifter LP, LC and LM, you’ll be saying goodbye to transport hassles and hello to more freedom.

During the month of April Motobility are offering a 10% discount on your Smart Lifter purchase. Stop by the Motobility showroom at 851 Nepean Highway, Mornington for a personalised demonstration from the friendly team at Motobility. Alternatively, call 8672 8588 or visit motobility.com.au to view their extensive range of mobility products.

Did You Know?

The percentage of people aged 65 or older with earwax impaction is reported to be as high as 34%!

Do you experience any of the following?

• Earache

• Itching

• Tinnitus (ringing and buzzing in the ears)

• Vertigo

• Hearing loss

These could be the complications of excessive or impacted earwax.

Why choose microsuction at Viva Hearing?

Microsuction has become widely recognised as the gold standard for efficient and safe earwax removal. This advanced procedure uses a specialised suction device under direct visualisation, allowing for precise and controlled removal of earwax while significantly reducing the risk of trauma to the ear canal and eardrum.

Unlike traditional ear syringing, microsuction is quick, comfortable, and does not require the prior use of eardrops. It is particularly beneficial for seniors looking to improve their hearing without the discomfort or potential infection risks associated with syringing.

Stamp duty savings on downsizing

FOR many older Victorians, moving into a retirement village represents more than just a lifestyle change, it can unlock meaningful financial benefits, with stamp duty savings among the most tangible.

Stamp duty (officially called land transfer duty) is one of the largest upfront costs when purchasing residential property in Victoria.

However, for those downsizing into a retirement village under loan/lease type contracts, the way duty is calculated can often lead to significant savings compared with buying a traditional home at the same price.

How Stamp Duty Works in Victoria

In Victoria, land transfer duty is calculated on a sliding scale based on the purchase price (or “dutiable value”) of the property. The presence of certain concessions, like principal place of residence (PPR) rates for homes up to $550,000, can reduce this amount, but above that threshold the standard general rates apply. Illustratively, based on current rates:

• A $500,000 property attracts approximately $21,970 in stamp duty.

• A $600,000 property attracts around $31,070.

• A $750,000 property generally attracts about $40,070.

These estimates are broad guides and may vary depending on specific eligibility for concessions.

Downsizing and Stamp Duty Savings

When retirees move into a Centennial Living retirement village via a loan/lease contract, the upfront payment for the retirement village unit reflects a license or lease payment rather than a freehold purchase, and this means stamp duty may not be payable at the same level as a conventional property purchase.

These savings can be significant when weighed against ongoing fees like deferred

management fees (DMFs); the periodic charges many retirement villages apply when exiting. While some prospects are wary of DMFs, the reductions in stamp duty alone may offset a portion of these costs over time, freeing up funds for lifestyle, care, or travel. Proper financial advice is recommended to model individual circumstances accurately.

For older Victorians considering a move into a Centennial Living retirement village, the prospect of lowering upfront costs through stamp duty savings, coupled with the lifestyle and support benefits of retirement villages, can make downsizing more financially viable. While DMFs should always be factored into

any retirement village decision, the stamp duty advantage offers a real, immediate cash-flow benefit.

Find out more about Centennial Living retirement villages by going to the website and filling in the form on the Contact Us page at www.centennialliving.com.au or call 1300 098 000.

Seniors Loving Life!

World-class performances right on your doorstep

THERE’S something truly special about live theatre. The shared energy in the room, the connection between audience and performers, and the simple pleasure of being absorbed in a story or a piece of music create moments that linger long after the curtain falls. Yet for many retirees, heading to the theatre can feel like a challenge in our current environment.

At Frankston Arts Centre, theatre is made easy. World-class performances are available right here on the Mornington Peninsula, offering the joy of live entertainment without the stress or expense of travelling into the city. Being closer to home doesn’t just save time, it also means fewer kilometres on the car and noticeable savings on petrol costs, making a day at the theatre an affordable and enjoyable outing.

For seniors, attending live performances offers far more than entertainment. Theatre and music provide valuable opportunities for social connection, helping people stay engaged with their community and reducing the risk of isolation. While formal research into the effects of theatre on ageing minds continues to grow, many audience members share the same sentiment: live performance lifts the spirits, stimulates the imagination and offers a welcome sense of belonging.

Engaging with the arts has been linked to improved wellbeing at every stage of life. A daytime show can provide a gentle escape, ease anxiety, spark conversation and create shared experiences with friends or family. These moments of joy and reflection often extend well beyond the performance itself.

This is where Frankston Arts Centre’s Daytime Music & Theatre program truly shines. Designed specifically for audiences who prefer to attend performances during the day, this much-loved program offers a relaxed, high-quality theatre experience with morning

and afternoon shows, affordable ticket options and the opportunity to make a full day of it.

Many patrons enjoy arriving early for a coffee, catching up with friends, and heading home well before evening sets in.

Other upcoming daytime performances feature a rich mix of music, dance and storytelling. Highlights include The Australian Ballet School on Thursday 21 May, showcasing the next generation of world-class dancers, and Walk the Line: The Johnny Cash & June Carter Story on Sunday 24 May, a heartfelt tribute to two music legends. Dance lovers can delight in Victorian State Ballet: Aladdin

on Sunday 14 June, while music fans won’t want to miss Mark Vincent Presents Amoré with The Australian Symphony Orchestra on Sunday 5 July; a soaring afternoon of romance and song.

The program continues throughout the year with engaging theatre and powerful voices, including Sea Wolves Howl on Thursday 9 July, I Am Woman on Sunday 4 October, and Casey Donovan ‘This Is Me’ on Sunday 1 November, all offering inspiring daytime experiences close to home.

More than a venue, Frankston Arts Centre is a place of connection. With performances

right on the doorstep, members and regular attendees enjoy rich cultural experiences that enhance everyday life.

Membership is available year-round from just $50 for an Individual, with benefits including discounted tickets, priority booking, pre-sale access and more.

So why not make theatre part of the routine? With inspiring performances, the ease of daytime outings and savings on travel costs, live entertainment has never been easier. Explore the Daytime Music & Theatre program and what’s coming up at thefac.com.au

Osteoporosis? Doctor recommends

INTRODUCING the ONERO™ program at Back In Motion Balnarring

Osteoporosis affects over 1.2 million Australians, silently weakening bones and raising the risk of fractures. The good news? With the right approach, it can be managed or even improved.

Back In Motion Balnarring proudly offer the ONERO™ program, a scientifically backed exercise intervention designed for those with osteoporosis or low bone density (osteopenia). Developed by Professor Belinda Beck of The Bone Clinic in Queensland, ONERO™ has shown proven results in reducing fracture risk, increasing bone density, muscle and physical function.

What is the ONERO™ Program?

The ONERO™ program is a supervised, highintensity resistance and impact training program tailored for individuals with osteoporosis or osteopenia. Based on years of clinical research, ONERO™ uses targeted exercises to build bone density, improve posture, increase strength, and protect against fractures.

The ONERO™ program is a supervised, hands-on program where you are guided through a series of targeted exercises. ONERO™ is safe, specific, progressive, and is only delivered by trained physiotherapists who are certified to deliver ONERO™. This means that they can tailor the program to meet your individual needs and accommodate your medical history or other comorbidities. The program is also individually staged so you can feel confident to join at any level and be guided by your physiotherapist to progress at your own pace.

The risk of osteoporotic fracture is greatly increased in people at risk of falling. ONERO™ training not only improves muscle strength but includes exercises to improve balance and mobility, thereby reducing osteoporotic fracture risk both by improving bone and reducing falls.

Why Choose Back In Motion Balnarring?

Back In Motion Balnarring focus on proactive, personalised care. Senior physiotherapist Sienna Wills, fully accredited to deliver the ONERO™ program, is passionate about helping you improve your health at any stage of life. Sienna is very excited to be able to bring the ONERO™ program to the local community.

When you join the ONERO™ program, you’ll receive:

• A comprehensive physiotherapy assessment

• Initial training and education for safe and confident exercise execution

• Small-group ONERO™ sessions with professional supervision

Regular progress tracking and reviews

• Education on safe movement strategies and bone health

Those with private health insurance should also be able to claim a rebate back on class costs.

Back In Motion Balnarring understand that starting an exercise program while managing a condition like osteoporosis can feel overwhelming. That’s why they prioritise safety, support, and education at every step.

Who is the ONERO™ Program for?

• Anyone diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia

• Post-menopausal women or older men with low bone mass

• Individuals seeking to prevent age-related bone loss

• Those with a family history of fractures or falls

• People looking for a safe, structured way to improve strength and balance

No matter your age or fitness level, it's never too late to start strengthening your bones.

Call Back In Motion Balnarring on 5983 1021 for further information.

A growing body of scientific evidence has demonstrated that OneroTM, supervised, bone-targeted high intensity resistance and impact training, reduces osteoporotic fracture risk in post menopausal women and older men with low to very low bone mass. The evidence -based OneroTM program improves bone, muscle, and physical function and is

for people with low bone mass when supervised.

A creative retirement lifestyle

WHEN Martin and Meredith Foster first drove into The Mornington Retirement Village they knew they had found their new home.

“We did look at other villages and as soon as we drove into this one, with the trees and the open space and the lakes with the birds singing, we thought ‘gosh this is amazing’,” Martin said.

Since moving in October 2022, the couple has fully embraced the vibrant community where they have found many like-minded people.

The Fosters made a living selling pottery, jewellery and portraits in markets around Melbourne and the creative arts have always been an important part of their lives.

At The Mornington they enjoy the regular dancing sessions together, while Meredith is part of the art group and the yoga class.

“Creativity is important for your right brain, people don’t use their right brain enough.

It's terribly important for wellbeing and being actually in the zone you can totally wipe out the rest of your problems just by working on something that you really adore,” Meredith said.

Meanwhile, Martin has initiated activities to make more use of the bowling green and grassed areas through “fun exercise”, including petanque, pickleball and badminton.

The camaraderie the couple has built with their neighbours is the cherry on top of their perfect lifestyle.

“We’re very lucky that’s what we’ve found, we’re very excited about it actually,” Meredith said.

“Since we came here we haven’t travelled much because we just love this place, it’s a beautiful place to live and it’s exciting to live here.”

To find out more about life at The Mornington call 1800 852 772 or visit SouthernCrossCare.com.au.

Overlooking

There’s

• Independent villas from $490,000

• Fully serviced apartments from $230,000

Call to schedule your private tour today.

Seniors Loving Life!

Support starts from the ground up

FOR many people, especially those who spend long hours on their feet, daily discomfort can gradually become part of life. Whether working, walking or simply staying active, the ongoing impact on the feet, joints and posture can build over time. Fortunately, the right footwear can play an important role in supporting overall health and mobility.

Alegria footwear is designed with comfort and support at its core. Each pair features an ergonomic footbed that moulds to the natural contours of the foot, helping to reduce pressure points and encourage better alignment. This design approach is particularly beneficial for those experiencing fatigue, arch discomfort or general foot pain.

The construction combines memory foam, cork and cushioning materials to absorb shock and distribute weight more evenly. This can help reduce strain not only on the feet, but also on the knees, hips and lower back; areas often affected by prolonged standing or walking.

Another key feature of Alegria footwear is its rocker outsole, which promotes a smoother walking motion and helps minimise fatigue throughout the day. Many styles also include slip-resistant soles and a roomier toe box, offering added stability and comfort for everyday wear.

A wide range of Alegria styles is available locally at Bayside Shoes, where customers can explore supportive, comfort-focused footwear options suited to a variety of needs and lifestyles.

Bayside Shoes is located at 103 Railway Parade, Seaford, with disability access, free parking and a wheelchair ramp at the entrance. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 10am–5pm and Saturday 10am–3.30pm. For more information, visit www.baysideshoeswarehouse.com.au or call 03 9785 1887.

When it comes to long-term wellbeing, support truly starts from the ground up.

This is what Happy looks like!

Developer’s generosity made ‘The Ranch’ possible

Last week’s article concerning the closure of “The Ranch”, while totally expected, is certainly a concern by reducing the availability of crisis accommodation (The Ranch crisis accommodation set to close, The News 31/3/26).

However , it is well for us to acknowledge the generosity and graciousness of the owners of the property to allow its use in this manner.

It was always to be a temporary arrangement. However, it fortunately extended beyond the expected 12 months availability to five years!

Importantly, we should recognise the extraordinary input into the establishment of the project by the previous CEO of the Mornington Community Support Centre, Stuart Davis-Meehan.

The highly personable Stuart showed great foresight, extreme energy and a gift for lateral thinking in bringing “The Ranch” into existence. Paul Girolami, Mornington

Well said Simon

Whilst Simon Brooks and myself have had a few “agree to disagree” discussions in respect of various community-related issues during his tenure as my local councillor, I am fully supportive of his expressed views on planning decisions that impact on the ‘liveability’ of our local municipality (Community Let Down Again, The News 30/3/26).

I congratulate Simon for the way that he expressed the current shortfalls in planning-related processes within the Mornington Peninsula Shire, which are exacerbated by the ad hoc planning decision making displayed by the state’s planning minister.

An example is the recent ministerial decision following to the landslide incident at McCrae to incorporate vast tracks of land within the peninsula that may be liable to land slip or inundation, as part of the planning scheme. This was despite the findings indicating that the McCrae landslide was due to a major water leak and not a geological phenomena.

It shows what a scatter-gun approach to planning issues that this minister adopts.

This decision has the real potential to place further financial burden upon land owners that may wish to construct/extend a building on their land, by having a geo-technical study undertaken for no considered reason/benefit.

And all of this against a back drop of approving a commercial development that has the potential for a real geological incident.

When voting for the next state government, the planning policy of candidates should be obtained and critically considered in detail.

Stuart Allen, Dromana

Shire governance

Mornington Peninsula Shire has a governance problem. Not small, not technical. Systemic and structural.

The recent arbiter and current monitor process is raising serious questions about bias, oversight, and control. That doesn’t happen by accident. Responsibility sits at the top.

The CEO sets the tone, approves the frameworks, owns the outcomes. The governance officer is the gatekeeper. They are responsible for process, integrity, and independence. If those fail, they have failed. If the system is off, it’s on them. It’s all about accountability.

When they fail in those responsibilities trust collapses and that’s where we are today. We deserve transparency, not internal systems that look controlled and closed. Not processes that feel managed rather than fair, and if that framework is compromised, leadership cannot hide behind it.

A good start would be to publish the submissions to have your say like many do. Fix it! Explain it! Own it!

Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach Nepean candidate

Anthony Marsh, the Liberal candidate in the upcoming by-election for Nepean, has been a divisive and damaging member of local government over a number of years.

As mayor, Marsh has presided over a council

riven with division and controversy - so much so that the state government has appointed two monitors.

In the last two years, Marsh has overseen the abandonment of the Mornington Peninsula’s Climate Emergency Declaration and Plan thereby exposing residents and local businesses to greater threat from the impacts of climate change. His comprehension of the crisis extends only to beach boxes, stormwater and roads. Marsh remains oblivious to urgent need to implement mitigation measures.

Other environmental fiascos to have occurred on Marsh’s watch include the decisions to persist with mechanical beach cleaning and to not oppose the grandiose Arthurs Seat Eagle development. Both decisions were taken despite the scientific evidence, significant community opposition and the advice of Mornington Peninsula Shire Council (MPSC) officers to the contrary.

One unintended positive outcome of Marsh’s leadership has been the formation of the Peninsula Climate Alliance - 25 individual environmental groups united in opposition to decisions of the MPSC.

Marsh’s leadership has also seen cuts to Arts programs, a dramatic reduction in the number of council meetings and a series of autocratic changes designed to limit community participation in council meetings.

Yet there is a blue wave of material proclaiming that Marsh is passionate about “delivering for his community”. Neither MPSC nor the community have benefitted from Marsh’s leadership.

Marsh has only recently discovered he is a Liberal. State parliament might indeed offer an opportunity for a fresh start for Marsh; his track record in local government is littered with pot holes and debris.

Ian H. Coffey, Red Hill South Marsh record

Cr Anthony Marsh’s decision to stand as the Liberal candidate for the Nepean by-election raises serious questions about trust and honesty in local politics.

During the 2024 council election campaign, Marsh repeatedly promised voters he would freeze council rates. Yet once elected, he voted to increase rates by the maximum amount allowed. That broken promise has hit families and pensioners hard at a time when many are already struggling.

In pre-election surveys and his official candidate declaration, he insisted he was not a member of any political party and was committed to the council “for the long haul”. Now he has abandoned his post looking for a better job. If successful his departure will trigger another expensive by-election in Briars Ward, costing ratepayers an estimated $200,000.

Voters have every right to expect candidates to honour the commitments they make. Marsh’s actions suggest a pattern of saying one thing to win votes and doing the opposite once in office. The peninsula deserves representatives who keep their promises, not just another person looking to use local government as a path to becoming a career politician.

Murray Goddard, Balnarring

Liberal promises

Is Anthony Marsh applying for the position of peninsula comedian? Judging by his large roadside ads, it would appear so. These claim boldly that “only Liberal will fix the potholes” and “only Liberal will fix Rosebud Hospital”.

I have a simple question: Then why haven’t they?

Liberal have been in power in Flinders and in Nepean for decades, apart from a notably productive short stint by Chris Brayne of Labor. During the time Liberal have been in power, much has deteriorated on the peninsula, and we have not seen them falling over themselves to put it to rights.

I am further baffled as to what to make of these amazing ads: Does this mean Liberal grossly underestimates the memory and focus of the voters,

or that Liberal itself has a problem with memory and focus?

Whichever it is, I am so glad we have a choice to remove ourselves from outdated party politics in this by-election.

Paula Polson, Dromana

Don’t ‘grievance vote’

The term “grievance vote” has been used to explain the growth in support for the Pauline Hanson One Nation Party in the recent South Australian election.

Conservative voters badly let down by the shambles that is the current Liberal Party said they’d had enough and sent their vote further right.

It didn’t seem to matter that the Pauline Hanson One Nation Party offered not a single policy and can point to not a single positive achievement in their 30 years on the political scene, a little over one in five voters still thought they were preferable to the Libs.

In the up-coming Nepean by-election it is hoped that any aggrieved or disgruntled voters, whether Liberal or Labor leaning, can think beyond sending a “grievance vote” to what is ostensibly a Queensland headquartered party headed by a self-labelled xenophobe.

Think instead about voting with positive intent. A vote for Tracee Hutchinson, a community independent, could send a local, highly credentialed, non-party aligned, professional representative to Spring Street to advocate on behalf of all of the people of Nepean. Wouldn’t that be a good thing?

Luke O’Brien, Rye

Vote independent

The way you vote in the Nepean By-Election will decide how you want to live on the Mornington Peninsula from now on.

Look closely at the track record of any candidate who supported The Briars debacle, who has advocated for every development proposal, who has constantly supported making us regional to debunk the Green Wedge.

Vote for someone with that track record and the development flood gates will open and the peninsula will never be the same.

Then we have the independent candidate.

Look closely at her track record and you will see someone who hits the ground running, has experience in the political scene as a journalist and presenter of integrity, fears no-one and is a proven fighter for her values and beliefs.

We need someone like her to protect the unique qualities of the peninsula that we all love, and to stand up for us on local issues that matter.

What better than a candidate whose only agenda as an independent is representing the best interests of the people in her electorate.

We have a fantastic opportunity here – whatever our past political leanings. She will get my vote.

Esther Gleixner, Flinders

Recycling is worth it

Thank you for the timely reminder about just how many containers can be recycled through Victoria’s container deposit scheme (Victorians missing out on container cash, The News 31/3/26).

Many of us are still overlooking the 10c refund available for drink containers, including flavoured milk cartons and bottles. It’s a real shame when recyclable containers end up in landfill or, worse, in our bush or waterways.

The good news is that plenty of charities — and quite a few entrepreneurial kids — are collecting containers to raise funds. It’s an easy way to support a good cause while keeping our environment cleaner.

For anyone unsure about what can be returned, the Container Deposit Scheme website has clear guidance. Every container recycled is a small win. Some might even say recycling is worth every cent.

Amy Hiller, Kew

Britain and European countries and starve China exports and imports of oil. So our resident will have the full effect of the oil crisis, especially public transport users as Australia has only around one month of oil in storage and buses run on diesel/petrol. Residents will feel the full effect of the oil crisis when the price of oil increases to $150 - $200 a barrel which will filter through to consumer goods and housing and will include increased council rates.

Russell Morse, Karingal

Nuts! Drongos!

I have just been made aware that Qantas, Australia’s flagship airline’s flying may be restricted, because Red Communist China has cutoff jet fuel supplies, due to Iran’s oil tanker blockade. This is nuts! How could our federal government, and top business leaders let Australia’s biggest ideological enemy: the allied-to-Iran, CCP (Communist Chinese Party) control our supply of jet fuel?

What drongos we have at the top here in Australia; because our RAAF jet engine warplanes, must also run on CCP supplied jet fuel?

What say you, Australia PM Anthony Albanese (and Australia’s top business leaders)?

Howard Hutchins, Wantirna

Terrorists?

I’ve been somewhat perplexed by the seeming failure of our post World War Two governments to express appreciation that one man’s terrorist is another’s freedom fighter.

The American revolutionaries, the “terrorist” French “Maquis” and the Polish “Armia Krajowa”, spring immediately to mind, as those who stood against the powers that then ruled. And then Lehi and Irgun were styled “terrorist” by the British, and therefore us, up to 1948. We can certainly say that Hamas causes fear in Israel, just as the IDF, who I understand absorbed Irgun and Lehi, continue to terrorise Palestinians.

As we style “Americans”, those who stood against England’s “oppression”, can we really ask and condemn anyone who is Palestinian to stand for their oppressors?

Richard Kesslings, Somers

BarleyCharlie@90

This day, this ageing? By and large an above average reason to be fit and well, body and brain into/during the 70’s.

The 80’s (the feelings?) highs and lows, alongside the conclusion - “Little fish are sweet.” A Collingwood victory, a win at poker, out and about.

Alas, come the 90’s an epiphany, the real reality, each day a blessing, depending, maybe each hour; the real highs a good night’s sleep?

Philosophical, though far from the truth of “nothing matters” as evidenced by our PM taking over all television channels, his 197 seconds to ration our petrol usage and catch a train, tram or bus, to go about life as normal? We are (we were) none the wiser?

Even worse, he tells us the evils of gambling? Comedy - “A radio ban during school pick-up”.

Politics and the continuing Donald Trump, as Paul Bongiorno writes “Not provoking the notoriously vengeful president.”

Capital gains tax and negative gearing reforms remain but a dream.

Easter 2026, two big powerful countries headed by nutcases and one frightened Australian Prime Minister. And men are wearing tote bags, even worse, Collingwood lost! What day is it?

I need a cigarette. Even so...

Cliff Ellen, Rye

Fuel crisis

Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula are more reliant on the car and bus system for transport and will be more affected by the war in Iran.

President Trump wants to make Israel the most dominant country in the Middle East and also to control the Strait of Hormuz.

He wants to take over the Suez Canal so he can put pressure on countries such as Canada,

Cross Crossings Cautiously - Dangers Of Level Crossings

Compiled

by Cameron McCullough

The sensations which suddenly swoop down on the engines who sees that he must hit a automobile trying to “beat the train across” are as terrible as they are indescribable, says a driver on one of our express trains.

For twenty years this engineman has been behind the throttle on locomotives in all parts of the State. He has had the nasty experience of hitting a motor car and has narrowly missed striking several others.

To see women and children in a motor car which he cannot avoid hitting; sitting there innocently, as death grimly hovers on the track, all through the carelessness of some driver, who has failed to look out for trains, or who perhaps wants the thrill of shooting across the track before the iron giant is, this engine driver declares, a raising experience; and motor drivers seem to be getting more careless every day.

“Oh, if only they would stop to think,” he says. “If they would look and listen with caution how many persons would be saved the horrors of a level crossing accident.

“Put yourself in my place and imagine how you would feel watching motorists gambling with death at the crossings.”

Railway statistics show that last year there were 38 casualties at level crossings in Victoria. Do you know that if you are not careful you are apt to be the next victim? Thus he warns all road users.

“I am not a crank against the motor driver. I am simply keen on ‘Safety First.’ Look and listen, then you would stop some of the shocks which

we locomotive engineers are given by ‘reckless motor drivers’.”

Death took toll of 24 people last year in railway level crashing accidents while 15 others were injured.

The Railways Department wants 1926 to be a “No Accident” year. This can be accomplished by everyone taking the utmost possible care. A glance in both directions, and a short wait if a train is approaching, will ensure safety for all concerned.

A motorist thinks nothing of stopping for a few seconds to light his pipe, but when it comes to waiting a moment to look both ways to see if a train is approaching, most motorists feel that it is a waste of time.

It is no waste of time if it means the saving of lives.

The Railways Commissioners are doing their best to eliminate accidents at railway level crossings. They are spending up to £50,000 annually in the provision of warning devices and the removal of trees, houses, and other obstructions of the view of approaching trains. Still accidents occur and will continue to do so until the public realises that any time may be train time at a railway crossing.

The tendency of some automobile drivers to unnecessarily place their lives in danger at level crossings is one rather strikingly suggested by a large sign suspended over the county highway near Olympia, Washington.

This sign, which is in large letters and well illuminated at night, is on two poles near a dangerous crossing and reads “Fools Become Angels at Railroad Crossings.”

While suggestive, the authorities evidently wished to make their an-

nouncement sufficiently distinctive to be noted and heeded.

The danger of carelessness in passing over railroad crossings has been intelligently recognised by the Standard Oil of Indiana. Each driver of the company has signed a pledge and sent it direct to his general manager, reading: “I do hereby pledge that I will under all circumstances when approaching a railroad crossing, have my vehicle under complete control and bring same to a full stop before attempting to cross any transportation lines, even though I am advised to do so by the attendant at the crossing, for the reason that I might mistake his signals. This is for the protection of my own life and to avoid any possible damage to the vehicle I am driving.” ***

THE annual meeting of the Mornington Football Club was held on Wednesday evening of last week, where there was a fair attendance.

The balance-sheet showed receipts £117/1/4, and after expenses were paid there was a credit balance of £4/10/10.

Officers for the season were elected, with Mr. McArthur president and Mr. E. G. Bradford secretary, Mr. W. Hutchins to act for a few weeks till Mr. Bradford’s return.

All were glad to hear the popular “Barney” was returning to Mornington.

Motions thanking the lady supporters, past secretary and Mr. F. J. McLean were recorded, and a letter of appreciation is to be sent to Mr. W. Patterson.

It was decided to charge 1/- admission to matches on Mornington

PUZZLE ZONE

ground. It was pointed out that 1/- was the general charge now all over the country.

The suggestion to engage a coach caused discussion, and was finally referred to the committee. The general opinion was that the team could get along very well without a coach, which meant a big expense; and they had a lot of fun last year without one.

The question of improvement to the ground and rooms was brought up.

The president assured the meeting that something would be done immediately to improve both rooms and ground. ***

Cricket - Frankston visit Croydon

Members of the Frankston Cricket Club and a few lady supporters had a good day out on Good Friday, the occasion being a cricket match and social outing at Croydon.

The trip was undertaken in Mr. W. Farris’ motor van and several private cars, and was made via Dandenong.

The outing proved most enjoyable, and apart from the rough spin along the Dandenong road, which is in a disgraceful condition, the party reached Croydon at 11.15 without mishap.

The match was commenced at 11.30 and at 1.30 adjourned for lunch when the visitors were entertained to a most sumptuous repast in the Croydon hall.

The captain of the local team welcomed the visitors in a neat speech, and Mr. C. Ramsdale briefly responded on behalf of the visitors, and thanked the Croydon club and lady supporters for the manner in which they had been catered for.

After lunch an adjournment was made to the cricket field and the game continued, some sparkling cricket be-

ing witnessed.

Croydon, who batted first made 214, and Frankston passed their score with 10 wickets down and a few runs to spare.

Ray Baxter was in excellent form with the bat and was top scorer with 86; included in his score being 8 6’s. Cecil Ramsdale 36, also batted well and hit two 6’s.

B. Bedggood made a useful 28, and Ben Baxter, although not feeling too well, made 27 in seven strokes.

***

Mornington Rail Motor - Daily Winter Service Desired

During the summer months a rail motor will run from Mornington to Frankston at 7am daily, returning from Frankston at 7.56am.

In the winter, however, the motor runs on Monday only. A deputation from Frankston and Mornington waited on Mr. T. B. Molomby, Railway Commissioner in charge of transportation last week to request that the motor should run daily during the winter.

It was pointed out that the population of Mornington was growing rapidly, and that the district was becoming a popular winter resort. Many people went to the city to business daily, and the mails and newspapers were delivered two hours earlier when the motor was running.

Mr. Molomby promised to investigate traffic conditions after Easter, and to consider the request if the patronage were satisfactory.

***

From the Pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 9 April 1926

Scoreboard

Men's footy kicks off for 2026 with a split round

MPFNL

By Kennedy McCullough

MEN’S DIV ONE

MPFNL Division One senior men kicked off their 2026 season with two Good Friday clashes.

Dromana travelled to Mornington to take on the Bulldogs. The first quarter was tight with both teams managing two goals, but Dromana had five more shots on goal to end the quarter 2.1 to 2.6 in favour of the Tigers.

Mornington came out punching in the second quarter, slamming two quick goals. Dromana didn’t get on the scoreboard until the ten minute mark. At the long break, Mornington were 12 points up.

Everything changed in the third term, with Dromana switching into top gear. They pumped on 4.5 for the quarter, with Mornington only managing 1.2. The Tigers went into the three quarter time break with a nine point lead, and it still could have been anyone’s game.

Dromana didn’t let up in the final term, putting up another 6.4 to Mornington’s 2.4 for the quarter, extending their lead and ending up eventual winners by 33 points.

In the other Good Friday clash, Langwarrin had the upper hand all day against EdithvaleAspendale. The Kangaroos led at every break, to end up 13 point winners 13.8 to 10.13.

Last year’s Division One premiers, Rosebud, took on Sorrento on Saturday.

Sorrento had the upper hand in the first quarter, with a slim five point margin at the first break.

Rosebud put on four goals in the second quarter to Sorrento’s three, and snuck ahead to be two

points up at half-time.

It was a slow start for Rosebud in the third quarter with Sorrento gaining the lead until the 17 minute mark, when Rosebud got their noses back in front. They finished the third quarter with the same lead as half time, two points up.

Rosebud pulled away in the final quarter putting on four goals to Sorrento’s two, to end up walking away with a 13 point win.

Next Saturday, the split round one completes with Frankston YCW against Devon Meadows and Mt Eliza taking on Pines.

MEN’S DIV TWO

DIVISION Two also kicked off with two Good Friday clashes, both ending up as thumpings.

Chelsea took on Bonbeach, with Bonbeach coming out of the gates quickly to go into the first quarter break with a nine point lead.

That was the end of the celebration for the Sharks, as Chelsea tore them apart in the second quarter, slamming on 9.2 to Bonbeach’s two straight goals. The big break saw Chelsea 35 points up.

Things didn’t get any better for Bonbeach in the third quarter, with Chelsea extending their lead to 61 points before putting Bonbeach to the sword in the final quarter, ending up smashing them by 113 points.

In the other clash, Rye took on Tyabb at Rye. The Demons decimated Tyabb walking away with a 63 point win. The final score was 22.15 to 9.9.

Next Saturday the round one split round completes with four games: Frankston Bombers take on Crib Point, Hastings play Pearcedale, Seaford play Karingal and Somerville face Red Hill.

Scoreboard

Locals dumped from Dockerty

SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie

THERE are no local sides left in this year’s Dockerty Cup.

The competition doubles as qualification for the prestigious Australia Cup but over Easter the three remaining local outfits were dumped from the knockout competition.

Langwarrin lost 1-0 away to Westvale, Mornington lost 2-1 away to Western United and Skye United was thumped 5-0 at home by Brunswick Juventus.

On the back of a short turnaround Langwarrin made eight changes to its starting line-up and the bench was made up of under-20 and under-23 players.

It was a scrappy contest but an error from young Langy keeper Branten Kindler in the 28th minute allowed Westvale striker Peter Lay to stroke the ball into an empty net.

Langy dominated possession and territory but was unable to get past a desperate Westvale defence.

Langwarrin head coach Jamie Skelly made a number of changes in the second half but while hitting the post and forcing Westvale keeper Marko Jovcevski into a number of saves the visitors were unable to break through.

The return to league action sees Langwarrin facing a difficult away clash against Brunswick Juventus on Friday night.

Zac Bates is back in training so shouldn’t be far off his comeback and Alex Kubenko will be available for the first time.

Noah Holmes is expected to return to training this week after illness but won’t be available to face Brunswick.

“Brunswick are a strong side who have recruited well and gained some good results but if we can continue on from the second half against Melbourne Victory then we’ll give ourselves an opportunity to get a result,” Skelly said.

Langwarrin staged a remarkable comeback from 3-0 down to gain a point in its thrilling 3-3 draw with Victory recently.

Mornington left Tarneit on Saturday frustrated at not taking some of the chances it created.

The Seagulls should have forced this tie into extra time at the very least.

Several changes to the line-up gave younger players an opportunity but the start couldn’t have been worse.

Ethan Goulding went down with a knee injury inside the opening minute forcing an early reshuffle with Ryan Paczkowski injected into the game almost immediately.

Despite Western United controlling possession Mornington’s structure frustrated the home side and the visitors looked dangerous on the counter.

James Kelly broke away on multiple occasions threatening to open the scoring but Western eventually took the lead in the 30th minute via a long ball to the back post finished by captain Mark Leonard and it was 1–0 at the break. Mornington responded strongly in the second half lifting intensity and gaining control by win-

ning first and second balls.

The equaliser came in the 51st minute through Joe Hunt who capitalised on a clearing header from the back line his shot taking a slight deflection to make it 1–1.

However that response was short-lived.

Western United restored its lead within a minute with a well-worked goal from Ali Al Sheikh in a move that cut through Mornington’s shape to make it 2–1.

The Seagulls pushed hard late but couldn’t find the finish they desperately wanted.

There was no lack of effort but a not enough was done in key moments.

There were plenty of positives though particularly the impact of the younger players stepping up.

Mornington’s focus now returns to State League 1 South-East and Saturday night’s clash with league leader South Springvale.

It’s a home game for the Seagulls at their temporary headquarters at Civic Reserve with an 8pm kick-off.

Rhys Craigie (calf) and Taketo Hosokawa (groin) are unavailable for selection.

Skye United went into Saturday’s clash with Brunswick Juventus as a clear underdog given that the visitors compete in a higher division with a much more expensively assembled senior squad featuring Kenny Athiu and Sean Ellis.

Skye promoted Liam Attard and Brodie Varas from the reserves and all five substitutes from the previous week were in the starting line-up –Artim Baki, Shameit Sharma, Alex Boisseranc, Jack Geddes and Ramish Hussainy.

Nic Millar returned to the club after a spell with Kingston City and played alongside his brother Hamish in a central defensive combination.

Jason Nowakowski and Arash Sadeghi were rested.

In the 21st minute Juve striker Luke Pullen broke through and deftly dinked the ball over Skye keeper Ittetsu Hirai.

It was 2-0 in the 34th minute after Hirai came out to clear the ball and Samuel Dweek chipped him from just over 30 metres.

In the 61st minute Hamish Millar turned the ball into his own net after it had been played across the face of goal and further strikes to Juve’s Sean Ellis and Ethan Pisani rounded off the scoreline.

Skye goes into Saturday’s league clash with Boroondara Eagles without Emmanual Scarlett (hamstring) and Daniel Attard (illness) while Nhan Than is set to miss two months after suffering a grade two MCL tear against Doveton.

It’s a triple-header for Skye with the reserves at 1pm, seniors at 3pm and the senior women hosting Gippsland in their Nike FC Cup clash at 6pm.

NEXT WEEKEND’S GAMES

Friday 10 April, 8.15pm

Berwick City v Peninsula Strikers, Jack

Thomas Reserve

Friday 10 April, 8.30pm

Brunswick Juventus v Langwarrin, CB Smith Reserve

Pakenham Utd v Mentone, IYU Reserve

Saturday 11 April, 3pm

Skye Utd v Boroondara Eagles, Skye Recreation Reserve

Greater Dandenong v Baxter, WJ Turner Reserve

Seaford Utd v Lyndale Utd, North Seaford Reserve

Somerville Eagles v Monbulk Rangers, Westernport Secondary College

Knox Utd v Mount Eliza, Carrington Park

Mount Martha v Aspendale, Civic Reserve

Saturday 11 April, 6pm

Rosebud v Chelsea, Olympic Park

Frankston Pines v Bunyip District, Monterey Reserve

Saturday 11 April, 8pm

Mornington v South Springvale, Civic Reserve

Community Bank Mt Martha supporting South Mornington Preschool

LAUGHTER and music are in the air at South Mornington Preschool, thanks to the generous support of Community Bank Mt Martha. Their contribution has funded the installation of beautiful outdoor musical instruments, with new monkey bars and climbing structures to follow in early 2026 – creating more opportunities for children to learn, explore and connect through play.

These significant playground upgrades invite children to express themselves creatively, grow their physical strength and imagination through play, and experience the joy of making music together in nature.

As a not-for-profit community kindergarten – a cherished part of Mornington for 60 years – South Mornington Preschool relies on local generosity to provide its high-quality education and nurturing atmosphere. These playground

upgrades represent a major investment in local families and future generations, and would not have been possible without the support of Community Bank Mt Martha.

“We are so grateful for Community Bank Mt Martha’s partnership,” said Tyson Day, President of South Mornington Preschool. “Their support has turned our vision for a more inspiring outdoor area into reality. A strong sense of community is at the heart of what we teach our children at South Mornington Preschool, and this partnership is a wonderful example of that in action.

Five-year-old Freddy, one of the preschool’s students, summed it up perfectly: “It makes our kinder sound happy all the time.”

Support the Bank that supports your community

Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Tanti Social Enterprises

IN the heart of Mornington’s Tanti Park estate, HomeGround Café is proving that a cup of coffee can do far more than provide your daily caffeine hit, it can empower transformation. The café runs a hospitality traineeship that equips local young people with technical and personal skills to thrive in life and work.

Since 2018, 135 trainees have completed the program, with the vast majority securing jobs or further education. Evaluations undertaken each year show 90% complete their traineeship, 75% progress to long-term employment or education, and every participant develops vital soft skills like confidence, reliability, and resilience. One graduate shared, “I got a job! It pushed me out of my comfort zone a fair bit, learning new skills in life that I couldn’t do before. Without HomeGround I seriously don’t think I would have gotten a job anywhere” Parents have seen the transformation ripple through their families, as young people discover purpose, community, and hope. “I cannot speak highly enough of the way that everyone at Home Ground Café have helped her find a path. Thank you.” one parent said.

Beyond training, the café nurtures connection and belonging qualities that strengthen the wider community. Every coffee poured and every meal prepared represents an investment in a young person’s future and in a more resilient, inclusive community.

None of this would be

15 Year Anniversary

Community Bank Mt Martha supporting South Mornington Junior Football Club

SOUTH Mornington Junior Football Club has been incredibly fortunate to receive ongoing support from Community Bank Mt Martha, and the benefits to our club and the wider community have been significant.

One of the most impactful contributions has been funding for not one, but two digital scoreboards, one for each oval at Citation Reserve. These scoreboards have transformed the way we run game days. They provide a professional match-day experience for players and families, and they’ve also become an important tool for sponsor engagement. Having the ability to recognise and promote our sponsors in a more visible and consistent way has helped us raise valuable additional funds to reinvest back into our junior programs.

More recently, the funding provided for our club mascot has created something truly special for our young players. The mascot has quickly become a favourite with our Auskick group and junior teams. It brings real excitement to game days and club events, helping build a fun and welcoming atmosphere for children and parents alike. It’s a simple addition that has made a huge difference to the sense of pride and belonging within our club community.

contributed over the past 15 years, and we look forward to continuing this strong partnership well into the future.

possible without the generosity of partners like the Community Bank Mt Martha, whose ongoing support has helped HomeGround resource critical training, supervision, and equipment costs to deliver the traineeship.

At HomeGround, transformation starts small one conversation, one shift, one opportunity at a time but its impact reaches far beyond the café doors.

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The support from Community Bank Mt Martha has helped us grow, modernise, and create a more enjoyable environment for our 350+ young footballers and their families. We are genuinely grateful for everything the Community Bank has

Thank you for helping us continue to build a safe, supportive, and community focused club for local kids and families.

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Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Mt Martha Bowls & Petanque Social Club

By Vaughan King – Sponsorship Manager –Mt Martha Bowls Petanque & Social Club

I begin my article from the time of my retirement (October 2019) when I upgraded to full membership of our Club, and became aware of the significant contributions that Community Bank Mt Martha had made, and continues to make in support of our club’s operations.

There was the very tasty furnishings upgrade, which was part funded by the Community Bank’s significant $15,000 grant, which took us from languishing in the 70’s to something more akin to a modern Club in the 2020’s.

There was the well overdue upgrade to the Point-of-Sale System and associated Computers to support Back Office activities and Member Training. We are moving forward with the times thanks to Community Bank Mt Martha. More recently, when the Club decided to introduce a Mental Health Awareness Day, the first major sponsor to come on board was Com-

munity Bank Mt Martha. All it took was a short letter from Club Chairman Geoff, and the Bank became the number one sponsor, in prime position on the back of the specially produced shirt. The 2025 event was the inaugural one, with the intention to make this an annual Pennant event on the last Saturday in November, and Community Bank Mt Martha was there right from the start.

Finally, a short reminder that Community Bank Mt Martha is never too far away. Trough our sponsored gazebos, they provide sun smart assistance during each summer, and the Barefoot Bowls and Pop-Up Petanque season.

The Gazebo’s, together with our strategically placed signs around the Club, never let us forget how much Community Bank Mt Martha continue to contribute to both us, and the greater Community.

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Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Mt Martha Life Saving Club

SINCE 2012, not long after it opened, Community Bank Mt Martha has joined with Mt Martha Life Saving Club giving back to our community.

From lifesaving equipment including boards, to tents, to our most recent acquisition (our shiny new Side by Side vehicle), and sponsorship of our Nippers Program, Community Bank Mt Martha has supported us and our community and been there to cheer us on.

We are both proud of our partnership and

humbled by your generosity.

Thank you, Community Bank Mt Martha, we can honestly say we wouldn’t be where we are today without your ongoing and unwavering support.

We look forward to a long and continuing relationship with Community Bank Mt Martha, serving the Mt Martha Community.

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Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Mt Martha Yacht Club

MT Martha Yacht Club has been providing sail training to both children and adults since inception in 1963.

In recent years our Junior Sailing Program has been a major focus of sail training and currently train over 40 junior sailors each year. We have been most fortunate over this time to have the Community Bank Mt Martha specifically sponsor these programs.

In 2025 the club purchased a renewed fleet of Opti sailing dinghies and built a new Junior Sailing shed to accommodate these programs.

The Community Bank Mt Martha through its ongoing sponsorship has ensured the programs resilience with their generous grant enabled the specific facility to be constructed with the aid of club member’s volunteer labour construction. The result was only possible with this support.

The Junior Sailing Program is available to the

community and benefits young aspiring sailors in acquiring skills both in sailing and water safety. Many progress through the course levels to compete in open senior competition. Notably the club has recorded a competitive success with one of the MMYC trained sailors, Acklin Stent winning the Victorian State Optimist junior championship. We all applaud his success and use it as a beacon for other aspiring sailors in the program. Acklin went on to compete in the Europe Optimist championships finishing a credible 6th overall. He follows may state and national titles attributed to MMYC.

MMYC joins Community Bank Mt Martha in supporting community sporting programs in water safety, sail training and community connection.

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Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Peninsula Parkinson’s Peer Group

‘MONEY makes the world go around’

So sang Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey in the hit musical Cabaret, but one local bank seems to be doing more than its fair share to keep the money moving on the Mornington Peninsula and that is Mount Martha Community Bank.

‘Our blossoming voluntary group is a good example of a local bank’s extraordinary generosity and support’, says Phillip Hancorne, Treasurer of PPPSG, the Peninsula Parkinson’s Peer Support Group, which now has some 200 members living from Rosebud to Frankston.

‘When 7 of us first got together in a coffee shop a couple of years ago, we put our heads together, working out how we could start a support group from scratch’, recalls Phillip

‘One of the first things we needed was a marketing plan to alert those living with Parkinson’s on the Peninsula. I approached my local branch, Community Bank Mt Martha for help, and

before we knew it, we had the money to invest in marketing materials, helping us get the word out’.

Their support has been incredible, and our exponential growth was encouraged by the bank’s early sponsorship.

Our photograph shows one of the Community Bank’s team, Narelle Lear, who joined in the fun at our Halloween luncheon. Narelle, one of the valued Mt Martha staff members, donated $1000 on behalf of the bank, to PPPSG in memory of her much-loved Mother, who lived with PD.

Local people support Community Bank Mount Martha, and the bank supports local charitable groups.

If you want to support people with PD or know someone who needs our help and advice, contact us through our webpage pppsg.org

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Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Osborne Netball Club

OSBORNE Netball Club has been the fortunate recipient of several grants from Community Bank Mt Martha over the last couple of years.

These grants have enabled us to create an All-Abilities netball program for children who may not be able to participate in a traditional competitive netball environment. Thanks to the generosity of Community Bank Mt Martha, we can offer this program at no cost to participating families.

We have also been able to introduce new club hoodies at a greatly reduced price, enabling all our players to wear their Osborne purple and the Community Bank Mt Martha logo with pride. They look great out in the community and have been an incredibly popular addition to our club uniform.

Our most recent funding will be an amazing

help in allowing us to improve our child safety within the club. We are in the process of ordering coach/official identifying jackets which will allow the kids to easily single out our club officials on game day when it can be very crowded and sometimes intimidating for our younger players.

We are also in the planning process for a professionally run first aid program for coaches/ officials to ensure we always have appropriately skilled first aiders on hand.

Osborne Netball Club are so grateful to Community Bank Mt Martha for helping to make the Club the wonderful community organisation that it is. We have approximately 150 junior players, and for them, we thank you!!

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Community Bank Mt Martha supporting Peninsula Raiders Superrules Football Club

ON behalf of the Peninsula Raiders, we thank Community Bank Mt Martha for its support and outstanding commitment to community development.

Over the past three years, the Peninsula Raiders have built a strong and valued partnership with Community Bank Mt Martha. Their generosity and community-focused approach demonstrates how local businesses can make a meaningful and lasting impact within their communities.

Sporting clubs play an important role beyond competition. They bring people together, foster community engagement, and help build strong and inclusive communities. Without the support of sponsors like Community Bank Mt Martha, it would be extremely difficult to continue delivering these benefits to the community.

Community Bank Mt Martha’s support has

directly improved both player safety and club facilities. Their funding enabled the installation of a cricket pitch cover, significantly enhancing ground safety and usability. They have also contributed to our scoreboard and assisted with the redevelopment of Alexandra Park. This redevelopment has since been recognised with Alexandra Park receiving an Outstanding Award from the AFL.

Community Bank Mt Martha continues to set a benchmark for corporate community involvement through its genuine commitment to local organisations. We sincerely thank Community Bank Mt Martha for its continued support and strongly recommend them as an exemplary community partner.

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Community Bank Mt Martha, supporting Mornington Croquet Club

WHEN is a bank more than just a financial institution? When it’s a Bendigo Community Bank! They provide all the standard banking services for individuals, households, businesses, and community groups, but what sets them apart is their deep commitment to the local community. By embedding themselves into the community fabric, they offer vital financial support to groups that make our neighbourhoods vibrant. Mornington Croquet Club recently switched its banking to Community Bank Mt Martha, and we couldn’t be happier. Not only did we receive exceptional service and comprehensive banking options, but we also had the opportunity to apply for—and receive—a grant to support our club’s needs. We run a croquet club that’s all about social and competitive play, foster-

ing connections among members and the wider community.

Our grant was for new croquet balls, which are essential for running quality competitions and ensuring our equipment is in top condition. Receiving the grant boosted our morale significantly, and the new equipment has really elevated our pride when hosting other clubs. For community groups like ours, which often operate on limited budgets, having a bank that supports us financially and practically is invaluable. We’re incredibly grateful to the team at Community Bank Mt Martha for their ongoing support and dedication to our community

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Community Bank Mt Martha

supporting Mornington Little Athletics Centre

MLAC has proudly served the Mornington community for over 55 years, sharing a strong alignment with Community Bank Mt Martha through our shared commitment to community wellbeing, participation, and long-term development. Both organisations place people at the heart of their work, fostering environments where children, families, and volunteers feel supported and empowered.

MLAC is very grateful for our Community Bank Mt Martha marquees jointly branded with our Club logo. These marquees are essential for protecting our volunteers and athletes against heat, sun, and rain. They are used every week at local competitions as well as at Regional and State events.

We are also deeply grateful for Community Bank Mount Martha’s ongoing support, which has enabled essential equipment purchases over the past five years. New trolleys have improved volunteer efficiency and safety around the track, while our new high-jump mats provide

enhanced safety, comfort, and performance—allowing athletes to train confidently and enabling MLAC to host school community athletics events.

We were excited to welcome athletes from across Victoria to our Community Bank Open Day Event on Sunday, 11 January 2026, proudly sponsored by Community Bank Mt Martha. On behalf of the MLAC Committee, volunteers, families, and athletes, we sincerely thank you for your continued support—especially to Gary Sanford for regularly attending each Season Launch and Presentation days and to Stacey Wakeman Branch Manager and her team for their long-standing commitment to our club. We congratulate Community Bank Mt Martha on their 15 Year Anniversary and we look forward to strengthening our partnership and celebrating future successes together.

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Community

Bank Mt Martha supporting Mornington Peninsula Patchworkers

MORNINGTON Peninsula Patchworkers Inc (MPPI) has been fortunate to receive two grants from Community Bank Mt Martha.

The first was to partially pay for the replacement of mobile library shelving to accommodate our unique library of quilting and patchwork books. The existing shelving was very heavy and not fit for purpose and was a potential hazard to our members as it could topple over. Since purchasing the new shelving the librarian has also been able to categorize topics and display books more effectively.

As a result, borrowing has increased by at least 25%. Members can borrow books to inspire their own projects or to create charity quilts that are donated to Frankston and The Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, palliative care in Frankston and Aged Care Facilities on the Mornington Peninsula. MPPI meetings are an important way for

members, of whom 95% are over 60 years of age, to socialize and contribute to the community.

The second grant received was used to purchase wadding and calico to make charity quilts and calico dolls used by doctors to explain to children medical procedures by drawing on them.

MPPI generally have self-funded this charity work. The Community Bank grants have allowed us to increase our donations. Last financial year MPPI donated 311 quilts, 234 calico dolls, 53 walker bags, 198 knitted hats and 80 knitted teddies.

Our club is very grateful to Community Bank Mt Martha for their support of our club and our charitable works.

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