Leader Local News
Fears for safety of level crossing workers
AN INCIDENT that could have killed workers at a crossing removal in Melbourne’s outer east is under investigation, with a union official saying there are serious safety problems at the site.
Owners avoid fines for unsafe pools
A RANDOM inspection of backyard pools in Knox has found most are unsafe, but the council has decided not hit any owners with fines.
Therapy dogs called in for stressed students
STUDENTS at a university in Melbourne’s west could “paws” this week from exam study with the help of therapy dogs.
‘We live in terror on windy nights’
PEOPLE living in the shadow of a 40m gum tree fear it is only a matter of time before a large branch comes down on a home or kills someone — but arborists say it’s healthy and must stay.
Cool craze claims to shiver you limber
THE latest wellness craze to hit Melbourne involves being ‘frozen’ by nitrogen vapour at up to minus 130C. But does it work? We put it to the test.
Near misses spark fears for kids’ safety
SPEED limits on a major road in Melbourne’s northwest will be lowered after the latest near miss at a pedestrian crossing.
Teen driving force of female-only app
A TEEN terrified when she was harassed at a train station has used her experience to launch a new female-only rideshare service empowering women to feel safe on their way home.
Students create powerful message
AN ARRESTING domestic violence message has been sent through body art in Melbourne’s west.
Advanced breast cancer nurse a Vic first
VICTORIA now has its first McGrath Foundation-funded nurse to specialise in caring for people with advanced breast cancer.
Anger as parents’ room used for prayer
A MUM forced to breastfeed in a shared parents’ area at Westfield Doncaster because a Muslim woman was using a private cubicle to pray is demanding they be signposted for nursing mums only.
Anti-refugee rally ‘will get out of hand’
POLICE have warned there will be zero tolerance at a rally against the placement of Syrian refugees in an aged-care home as a right-wing activist said the protest “will get violent”.
Chic renovations Flawless facelifts on the home front
THIS trio of homes blend traditional and contemporary highlights, along with a number of special features.
Upper circles Balconies beckon to residents and guests
HEAD to the upper storey of these homes in Melbourne’s outer north to enjoy outdoor areas with valley scenery.
Chic style Distinction on display in Craigieburn
BUILT in 2010 as a display home, an elegant Craigieburn property has ample space for guests to stay and play.
Mid-century style Oak Park home’s retro appeal
AN UNUSUAL style pervades a 1960s Oak Park home, which features a design quite different to the period architecture of nearby suburbs.
VFL Big Oscar on the rise
CASEY Scorpions ruckman Oscar McInerney has made giant strides since joining the VFL from suburban club Montrose.
Football Buchan at Frankston Bombers
TWO Frankston Dolphins have found homes in the MPNFL, with Corey Buchan signing at Frankston Bombers and Andrew McInnes at Karingal
EDFL Coaching coup for Greenvale
NEW Greenvale coach Paul Chapman is preparing to lace up the boots for his return to the Essendon District Football League next year.
NMCA Warriors eye Rivergum scalp
LALOR Warriors are intent on extending Rivergum’s winless start to the NMCA season after opening a three-point gap at the top of the Jika Shield table.
Premier Cricket Dons look to set foundations
ESSENDON is bracing for a crucial series of matches over the next six weeks as it looks to set the platform for a return to Premier Cricket finals.
Win a Ballarat getaway and view the Archies
THE Art Gallery of Ballarat is the exclusive Victorian venue for the touring exhibition of the 2016 Archibald Prize. Leader has two major Ballarat getaway prizes plus runner-up Exhibition passes to give away.
Aumann’s gardening vouchers to be won
AUMANN’S Landscaping and Gardening has everything you’ll need to keep your garden looking great this Spring. Diamond Valley Leader and Heidelberg Leader each have three Aumann’s vouchers to give away.
Local Photos
Safe landing Rescuers ready after gondola drill
ARTHURS Seat Eagle staff and CFA members honed their rescue skills with the opening of the new gondola ride just weeks away.
Dancing queens Young ballet stars shine
BABY ballerinas got the opportunity to explore the story of Sleeping Beauty through dance.