Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit detectives have in recent days arrested a man in relation to a series of deceptions involving a dating app.

Detectives had been investigating a number of incidents where an allegedly fraudulent online dating profile is created to lure people to a hotel room in Melbourne CBD.

It’s alleged the offender gains access to the victim’s identity documents which he uses to commit further fraudulent activity.

A 31-year-old Sydney man was arrested at a hotel on Bourke Street in Melbourne’s CBD last Friday morning (April 11).

He has been charged with multiple counts of obtain financial advantage by deception and attempted obtain financial advantage by deception.

He was required to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will officially end at 1.00 am on Tuesday, 22nd April 2025 in the following municipalities within CFA’s District 02:

• City of Greater Bendigo
• Goldfields Shire Council 
• Mt Alexander Shire Council
• Macedon Ranges Shire Council

As restrictions lift, the CFA is urging residents to remain fire-aware, as dry Autumnal conditions combined with strong winds can still lead to fast-moving grassfires.

CFA Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer Michael Hembrow said while the local landscape remains dry, favourable weather conditions have made it the right time to lift fire restrictions.  

“Autumn stems as an opportune time for people to clean up around their property following the fire season,” Michael said.  

“However, we still need the community to act cautiously and take precautions, when and if they decide to burn off.” 

Despite the cooler change in conditions, it is important residents remain vigilant.  

“While the Fire Danger Period will come to an end, residents must register their private burn-offs, check the weather is suitable and follow laws and regulations,” Michael said.  

“It is still dry in many areas, so any private burn-offs should have someone monitoring it at all times, with enough water and resources on hand to effectively contain and extinguish it.” 

Private burn-offs should be registered online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au. If smoke or fire is reported, it will be cross-checked with the register to avoid an emergency response and allow 000 call-takers to prioritise emergency calls.  

Where possible, landowners should also notify neighbours and those nearby who may be sensitive to smoke.  

Residents travelling to other parts of Victoria are reminded to remain vigilant, as fire danger periods in other regions may still be active.  

 Private burn-off safety checklist  

• Check fire restrictions in your area and register your burn-off.
• Monitor weather conditions, especially wind. 
• Notify neighbours to prevent unnecessary emergency calls.
• Maintain a three-metre firebreak, clear of flammable materials.  
• Have enough equipment and water to contain the fire. 
• Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay until it is fully extinguished. 
• If your burn-off gets out of control, call 000 immediately.
• For tips on protecting your health from smoke, visit the EPA Victoria website. 

Police have arrested a woman after a vehicle was spotted allegedly reaching speeds of 200km/hr in Melbourne’s south on Sunday night.

Airwing spotted a white Holden Astra allegedly travelling at a fast rate of speed along Thompson Road in Patterson Lakes about 10.15pm.

Officers on the ground located the vehicle and attempted to intercept it.

The Holden allegedly refused to stop, continued driving along a footpath, reversed into a police vehicle and took off at speed.

No one was injured.

A short time later it is alleged that the same vehicle was spotted on Centre Dandenong Road in Moorabbin, where responding police units successfully deployed a tyre deflation device.

Officers attempted to arrest the driver of the Holden, who allegedly refused to follow police direction.

OC spray was deployed during the arrest.

The alleged driver and sole occupant of the Holden, a 27-year-old Caulfield East woman, was taken to hospital for treatment.

Investigators allege the Holden was baring false number plates and a search of the vehicle uncovered a small quantity of a drug of dependence.

The alleged driver was expected to be charged earlier this week with driving and drug offences.

The Hepburn Shire Council is inviting community members to help shape the future of the region by having their say on the draft priorities for the Council Plan 2025–2029.

The Plan is currently being developed with input from a range of sources, including a Deliberative Engagement Panel made up of residents from across the Shire.

The council is now seeking feedback from the wider community to ensure the Plan truly reflects local priorities for services, facilities, and future planning.

Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said the council was committed to creating a Council Plan that is shaped by the people who live, work, and visit Hepburn Shire.

“This is a chance for everyone in our community to make their voice heard on what matters most to them. We encourage residents and ratepayers to complete the survey and have their say,” said Cr Don Henderson.

Community members are encouraged to complete the short survey available on the Participate Hepburn webpage before Sunday 27 April.

For those who prefer paper-based engagement, hard copy surveys are available upon request at council libraries and hubs.

All submissions will be reviewed and considered as the council works to develop a draft Council Plan and Budget.

A draft will be released for further community consultation in mid-May after it is considered at a Special Council Meeting.

Final endorsement of the Council Plan will take place at the June Ordinary Meeting of Council. For more information and to complete the survey visit https://participate.hepburn.vic.gov.au/hepburn-together-2025-2029

The Hepburn Shire Council has confirmed that a new speed zone of 40 km/hr will be introduced in the central business district of Daylesford to enhance safety for road users and pedestrians.

In a statement issued in recent days, the council said it had listened to the numerous calls for reduced speeds in Daylesford and had been collaborating with the Department of Transport and Planning to establish a safer speed zone.

The new speed zone in Daylesford covers the central business district and areas with high pedestrian activity, including both local and state-controlled roads.

The statement confirmed: “Our works crew will begin the sign installation this week and expect to complete the project before Easter. The existing speed limit signs will be removed first, followed by the placement of the new 40 km/hr signs. We will continue to look at speed limits across the Shire.”

The state government says it is taking action to ensure more high-quality apartments and townhouses get off the ground faster with applications opening last week for the Great Design Fast Track. 

This new streamlined planning pathway will make it easier and quicker to approve well-designed apartment and townhouse developments that include eight or more homes between two and eight storeys depending on the zone. 

Projects must meet certain design principles to qualify for the pathway, ensuring they are high-quality, long-lasting and good value for residents. The Office of the Victorian Government Architect (OVGA) will review applications to confirm they meet these high standards.

To deliver grand designs without the grand cost, proponents will need to demonstrate how they are providing good value homes – this could be through innovative delivery models, modern methods of construction, or considering ways to minimise operational costs for the long-term.

Projects must demonstrate a higher level of sustainability than typical projects – achieving an average 8-star rating on the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) for apartments and 7.5 stars for townhouses.

They also need to accommodate well thought out community spaces, consider green space and landscaping, and cater to the needs of different kinds of households. 

To support great design, the Government has released a State Design Book, showcasing exemplary housing projects. Victorians will be able to nominate outstanding examples of well-designed homes through the Engage Victoria website.

Locals still retain their right to have their say and all submissions will be considered, but they will be fast tracked, meaning there will be no third-party appeals, with the Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny being the responsible authority for projects that go through this pathway. 

This is another way the Labor Government is helping deliver more homes for more Victorians – including through delivering more homes close to trams and train stations, getting more townhouses off the ground faster, and slashing stamp duty for off-the-plan townhouses and apartments. 

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny: “We know we need more homes, and we need them now – that’s why we’re making sure high-quality and well-designed townhouses and apartments get the greenlight sooner.”

“We’re going all in to support the design and development of more townhouses and apartments that will stand the test of time in quality, design, aesthetics, sustainability and cost.”

The CFA is calling on Victorians to dig deep alongside thousands of volunteers rattling tins for the annual Good Friday Appeal (GFA) tomorrow, supporting the Royal Children’s Hospital. 

From fire trucks to traffic lights, community clubs to local events, Victorians can expect to see CFA volunteers out in force this Good Friday. In fact, you’re likely to find a CFA volunteer shaking a tin in nearly every town across the state.  

Since 1951, CFA brigades have proudly raised more than $39 million for the Appeal, becoming a cornerstone of the fundraising effort. This year, CFA is aiming to reach a historic milestone – raising a grand total of $40 million.  

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the image of CFA volunteers in their firefighting gear collecting donations has become an iconic part of Good Friday.  

“A significant number of our CFA members will be out in force again this year, and it’s just one of the things that truly defines the spirit of the Good Friday Appeal,” Jason said.  

“Our long-standing partnership with the GFA is not possible without the incredible generosity and passion of our CFA volunteers who give up their time year after year to raise funds for kids who are in need of care.   

“So, this Friday, give what you can to a firey – and help us make a difference.”  

This year, Chief Officer Jason Heffernan will have the honour of presenting CFA’s total collection amount live on-air during the Good Friday Appeal telethon late on Friday night.   

He will be joined by Epping CFA volunteer Rohan Stevens, whose son Jack is one of the official faces of the 2025 Appeal.   

Jack received life-saving care from the Royal Children’s Hospital, and the support his family received during that time has left a lasting impact. Their story is a powerful reminder of why every donation matters.  

The continued partnership between CFA and the Good Friday Appeal reflects the selfless dedication and community-first ethos that CFA volunteers embody. For many, it is a powerful way to give back and connect.  

Members of the community are encouraged to look out for CFA crews in their local area and donate generously – every dollar makes a difference to the lives of children and families across the state.  

Make this Friday a Good Friday. Give what you can – in person or donate online at Good Friday Appeal : Find a Fundraiser.  

Police are investigating a fatal single vehicle crash that happened in Marong on Sunday afternoon.

It’s believed the vehicle was traveling on Calder Alternative Highway just before 4pm when it left the road and struck a tree.

The sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or information was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

For the current provisional lives lost tally see – https://www.police.vic.gov.au/road-safety

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) is asking all landowners to take the necessary steps to protect paddock trees when burning stubble on their properties.

Landowners have several options when it comes to managing crop stubble. If landowners are
managing particular issues in a paddock, burning may be the chosen option when fire restrictions
lift in the coming weeks.

Native trees are protected by law and there are ways to avoid damaging them.

This includes, establishing an adequate fire break around native trees and ensuring there are enough people to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively with adequate water and fire
extinguishing equipment accessible.

If fire restrictions are in place a permit is required to burn grass, stubble and other vegetation on your property until the Fire Danger Period ends. Find out more at: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-
restrictions/fire-bans-ratings-and-restrictions/can-i-or-cant-i or register a burn by calling 1800 668
511, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Find out more about native vegetation and farming at www.environment.vic.gov.au/native-
vegetation/farming-and-native-vegetation.

Anyone wanting to report the destruction of paddock trees during stubble burning should contact
their local council.

Grampians Regional Manager Natural Environment Programs, Michelle Butler: “It is important to protect native paddock trees.

“They provide shade to stock, reduce wind impacts to crops, store carbon, and provide habitat to important pollinators and birds that feed on pests.

“We encourage landholders to be well prepared before beginning a stubble burn. Creating firebreaks around trees and having enough people, water and equipment ready to extinguish the fire will ensure you can protect your valued native trees.”

Police have arrested 26 people and recovered eight stolen cars as part of an operation targeting car thieves and burglars in Broadmeadows and Craigieburn earlier this month.

Victoria Police says car theft is a significant priority for police in Hume, with the area having the third most cars stolen across the state last year – a 44% increase.

Police intelligence shows that more than a third of cars targeted in the area are unlocked or have open windows. Similarly, it is common for offenders to sneak into houses with unlocked doors or open windows to steal car keys.

The week-long operation ran overnight earlier this month, targeting those committing burglaries to steal cars across Broadmeadows and Craigieburn.

Local general duties police were supported by the Air Wing and the Dog Squad to track down offenders and outstanding stolen cars in the area.

The operation led to the following results:

• 26 people arrested, with police laying more than 80 charges all together
• Eight stolen cars recovered
• Impounded three cars for traffic offences including driving on suspended licence and excessive speed
• 27 infringement notices issued for driving offences
• 42 vehicles checked

The operation ran from 30 March – 5 April in the Broadmeadows and Craigieburn areas. More operations are planned in the future, police say.

In addition to the targeted operation, detectives from the nearby Merribek Crime Investigation Unit also arrested two people last week for two separate alleged aggravated burglaries where offenders crept in to properties without occupants realising.

If anyone has information about car thieves, this can be reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

As families head outdoors for Easter adventures, nothing beats toasting marshmallows over a warm fire. However, fire and land authorities are warning if people are not careful, a campfire or fire pit can go from a cozy glow to a full-blown bushfire faster than you can say ‘Easter egg hunt’.

Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said before campers settle in for stories under the stars, they should make sure they know and are following campfire safety rules.

“This season, we’ve responded to almost 300 incidents involving campfires, including the Boroka Lookout Fire in the Grampians National Park where an illegal campfire turned into a large bushfire. If it wasn’t for the efforts of our firefighters, that fire could have grown and destroyed the Halls Gap community.

“Campfires that escape are a big problem in Victoria. Always fully extinguish campfires with water, not soil and make sure it’s cool to touch before leaving,” Mr Hardman said. 

“We want people to enjoy the bush safely. By knowing and following the rules for building and maintaining campfires, we can help keep the bush healthy and safe for everyone.” 

Parks Victoria Executive Director of Operations Kylie Trott said campfires are generally only permitted in designated fireplaces across most Victorian parks.

“Campfires aren’t allowed in all parks or campgrounds. In most cases fires must be within a constructed fireplace, so it’s essential to check the rules before your trip,” Ms Trott said.

“Someone should always be watching the fire while it’s burning, and ensure it is fully extinguished before you leave. The consequences of getting it wrong can be devastating.”

Acting Chief Conservation Regulator Cal Heppell said escaped campfires are a cause of bushfires that are 100% preventable.

“Ensure you know the rules and are up to date on weather conditions before you light any fire. Your fire is your responsibility,” Mr Heppell said.

“Our authorised officers will be visiting campsites throughout Victoria’s parks and forests making sure everyone is following the rules so we can all have a safe and enjoyable holiday.”

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said that while fire pits will also be a great source of warmth, careful consideration is key to keeping everyone safe from injuries and fire starts. 

“Last year CFA responded to 219 fire pit incidents, which could have been prevented by simply having a safer set up and fully extinguishing them before walking away,” Mr Heffernan said.

“Make sure to give your fire pit plenty of room with at least three metres of space in all directions and place it on a flat, non-flammable surface.

“Have at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby and an adult supervising the fire at all times so you can enjoy your long weekend without any surprises.”

Before hitting the road, people should be familiar with local campfire regulations and safety measures to help protect the environment and local communities, learn more here. To understand what activities you can undertake, visit CFA’s Can I or Can’t I webpage.

People who breach campfire regulations on public land face a maximum penalty of $19,759 if the matter is prosecuted in court. The maximum penalty for lighting or maintaining a fire during a day of Total Fire Ban is $47,421.60 and/or 2 years in jail. 

Report unattended campfires to 136 186 or call 000 to report a bushfire.  

Ballarat Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for information following an aggravated carjacking in the Ballarat suburb of Lucas last month.

Detectives have been told a 21-year-old woman was travelling with a male associate, in a Hyundai i30, when she was asked to make a stop in Lucas Lane on Thursday 20 March about 3.15am.

As the car came to a stop the young woman, who was driving the vehicle, noticed two men wearing all black and balaclavas, walk towards the vehicle.

She tried to drive off but was stopped by her passenger, before she was dragged from the vehicle by the two other men and physically assaulted.

It is believed her passenger, and the two offenders fled the scene in the victim’s Hyundai after dumping a dark coloured sedan, believed to be a Holden Berlina, which they arrived in.

The victim was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Hyundai was located burnt out near Lake Burrumbeet about 30 minutes later.

Detectives believe the three men involved are known to one another.

Images of the Berlina (above) have been released in the hope someone recognises it.

An image of a vehicle similar to the Holden Berlina captured in vision, has also been released (below).

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV, dashcam footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Hepburn shire residents are being invited to attend a free native screening plants workshop set for Daylesford next month.

Taking place at the Daylesford Neighbourhood House with support from the Hepburn Shire Council, next month’s free workshop offers a chance to learn about how to improve wildlife habitat while providing wind protection and privacy.

It is taking place on Saturday May 10 from 2 pm to 3:30 pm and is being supported by a Hepburn Shire Council Biodiversity Grant.

A range of community Anzac Day commemorative services are planned to take place throughout the Hepburn Shire later this month.

Organisers are inviting everyone to attend any of the community events that include the following:

Creswick-Smeaton RSL Sub-Branch

Anzac Day – Saturday, April 25

Wreaths can be ordered up to April 19 via creswicksmeatonrslsec@gmail.com for $40.

Creswick 5.40am – Dawn Service – assemble at the Cenotaph (cnr Albert and Raglan streets) for a 5.50am start followed by the Gunfire Breakfast in the Senior Citizens Centre. (Water Street next to the Town Hall).

9.30am – Service at the Soldiers Graves at the Creswick Cemetery, 141 Clunes Road.

10am – Service at the Memorial Stones, RSL Hall, 60 Albert Street.

10.15am – Anyone wishing to take part in the March to assemble at the Splash Park (Bottom of Albert Street).

10.30am – March commences. Following the March – Anzac Day Service – Creswick Cenotaph. Incorporating “60th Anniversary of the Creswick-Smeaton RSL Field of Crosses”.

12.30pm – Two-up at the front of the RSL Hall.

Kingston

Kingston Friends of the Avenue Anzac Day service and wreath laying at Cenotaph. Time: 9am at the corner of Victoria and Kingston roads, Kingston.

Daylesford

Dawn service at 6.30am

March to the Cenotaph, Burke Square, at 10.30am for a service at 10.45am.

Hepburn

Service at 10th Street at 8am.

Eganstown

Service at 9am.

By Donna Kelly  

Hello ladies, it’s time to talk about the ladies.  

Are you up to date with your breast checks? I am. Just now. What a journey – and  I hate that word.

Started quite a few years back. I had a bit of a lump and had a mammogram done at St John of God. And then an ultrasound and then a biopsy. Waited for the news and all clear. Just something fibrous. Happy days.  

But the surgeon said I had dense breasts, like my mind most days now, and I should have a check every year. Which meant I had to keep going back to St John of  God and paying the big bucks. But all good for health.  

Anyway, last year I got caught up with life and missed my annual check. So this year I take my referral to St John of God and the receptionist asks me if I have any  symptoms.

No, I say. So she says I should go to BreastScreen Victoria because it will be free and otherwise I am out of pocket about $500.  Hmmm.

So I made an appointment in Ballarat for the following week but then I saw a post somewhere that the mobile bus was in Daylesford and had some spare spots. So I booked for the next day – just popped up to Vic Park. Easy peasy.

All very professional. Nice staff and nurse.  

Three weeks later the email arrived saying I had to go back – to Ballarat this time – for follow-up testing. Bring a book, they said. So I made a booking for the following  Wednesday, their follow-up day, and that was an eye-opener.  

I was one of the first to arrive and the second last to leave so I saw a lot. Once you are checked in you go into a main waiting room and then into an adjoining dressing room and change into a gown for the top part. Then you go back into the waiting  room and wait.

The lucky ones go off for another mammogram and come back, get changed, and head off to enjoy their day. Follow up done. All clear.  

Others, like me, get that bit done and then are told they need a follow-up ultrasound. So you wait.

Meanwhile, the room is filling up, with one chatty volunteer, and women in different stages of distress, all cracking hardy. One woman showed off a bruised breast from biopsies from the previous week.  

Anyway, a nurse arrives and it’s my turn for the ultrasound. Ultrasounds are easy compared to mammograms. I don’t know who invented mammograms but I am betting it was a bloke. If it was the same test for balls I reckon the death rate from testicular cancer would skyrocket.  

You undress, step forward to the bottom plate, put your boob on it, with a helping hand from the radiologist, then it is smoothed out. Your right arm goes above the machine, your feet face the other way, your bum needs to stick out the back a bit and your face needs to be clear of the machine.

And then they lower the top plate  and squash your boob flat. Trapped.

Sometimes they head off to hit the switch with a cheery “don’t move” as if you could.  So, ultrasound done and the staffer says she will just find a doctor to check the results. He comes back with her and says he is pretty positive it is nothing. But pretty  positive is not good enough.

So it’s time for a biopsy. Well, that afternoon. I arrived  at 11am and it’s now about 12.30pm. Biopsies start at 2.30. I am told I can go get lunch but I am not hungry now. I wish I had brought that book.

At one stage I get dressed and go and sit in the car and play solitaire for a bit.  Then I go back and it’s time for the biopsy. Not much fun there. But oddly the only painful thing is the anaesthetic, whose only purpose is to stop pain.

I am back in the mammogram room where I get settled in a wheelchair and pushed to the machine. Breast in, plate down, then anaesthetic, I might have sworn a bit, then a sound like a sewing machine and six samples are taken.  

I get given some ice, in the finger of a blue glove, to stop the bruising, but have to break the news that I didn’t bother with a bra – not really since 2020.

The nurse  decides to use a body bandage to pop it in place and we are done. A week later, I have  a phone chat, because I have the flu, and all is clear. Benign. Calcifications all gone.  See you in two years. Happy sounding surgeon. All good. Yay.  

But the main part is that these calcifications, which can indicate cancer, cannot  be felt. They are tiny. Only a mammogram would pick them up. So that is why self  checks are not enough.

Every two years, get your breasts checked. And if they had found cancer, it would have been so early all would have been well. I hope.  

Also, I would like to give a big thumbs up to BreastScreen Victoria. They are  totally professional but also everyone was so very kind. I felt like I was being held in a  big warm hug all the way through. Supported and cared for from the first visit at Vic Park right through that day and then the results.  

I hope all the other women got good results like me but you know someone from that day is probably reeling now. I am thinking about you and the journey (that word) you are about to go on. Hope you are OK and have friends and family to lean on. Take care of you. Hugs. Just sayin’…