July 2011

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July 2011

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Sarah has summit in her sights SARAH McKenzie is literally climbing her way to the top. It is less than two years since the diminutive 13-year-old Carrum Downs girl took up indoor rock climbing, but she is already Victoria’s under-14 champion and ranked seventh in Australia. Sarah practices three times a week at Bayside Rock, Carrum Downs, with coaching from its CEO international climbing champion James Kassay, does exercise classes at a gym twice a week and works out with a personal trainer once a week. At the end of this month Sarah will compete in the under-15s Oceania Climbing Championships and national titles. In May and April the 138cm tall, 30kilogram Sarah won the under-15s in both the Victorian Lead Climbing Championships and the Victorian Bouldering Championships. Lead climbing is when the climbers use ropes while for bouldering they climb without ropes to a height of four metres, with a padded mat underneath. “Sarah’s goal for this year is to win the Nationals,” Sarah’s mother Faye McKenzie said. “Next year she is aiming to compete in both New Zealand and Australia in the Oceania Series and the following year, once she advances into the next age category, she would like to represent Australia at the World Championships. “Her long term goal is to represent Australia when rock climbing is set to become part of the 2020 Olympics.” The finals of the Oceania Series and national titles will be held 8am-8pm at Bayside Rock, Carrum Downs, over the weekend of 30-31 July.

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NEWS DESK Proudly published by Mornington Peninsula News Group Pty. Ltd

PHONE: 1300 MPNEWS (1300 676 397) Published monthly. Circulation: 25,000

Editor: Keith Platt 0439 394 707 Advertising Sales: Carolyn Wagener 0407 030 761 Production/Graphic Design: Stephanie Loverso Publisher: Cameron McCullough 0407 027 707 REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Neil Walker, Barry Irving, Cliff Ellen, Frances Cameron, Peter McCullough, Stuart McCullough, Gary Turner, Jaime McDougall, Marilyn Cunnington, Brad Stirton, Fran Henke. ADDRESS: Mornington Peninsula News Group, P.O. Box 588, Hastings, 3915 E-mail: team@mpnews.com.au Web: www.mpnews.com.au DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: 1PM ON THURSDAY 28 JULY 2011 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: THURSDAY 4 AUGUST 2011

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To advertise in the next Frankston Times please contact Carolyn Wagener on 0407 030 761

Behold, the artist: Tony Sowersby besides one of his night works at the opening of his exhibition at Without Pier, Cheltenham.

Artist eyes the storm for ideas UNLIKE people who see little benefit in going out on stormy nights, Tony Sowersby sees them as inspiring. The Seaford artist photographs reflections, watches lightning and the splash of raindrops. Everywhere he looks there is art which, once back in the comfort of his studio, can be transferred onto canvas. He admits to having a “fascination with the particular and sometimes ominous beauty of the city and suburbs at night�. “I enjoy the way even the most mundane street can be transformed on a wet night into a world of neon reflections,� Sowersby wrote in regard to an

exhibition of his works at Without Pier gallery, Cheltenham, last month. “However, rather than just a recording of lighting effects I also try to imbue these works with social comment or humour or pathos. “This is also true of my other paintings that portray both historical and contemporary scenes.� Sowersby has been a professional artist for nearly three decades but it is only in recent years that he has turned his attention to exhibiting. Since the early 980s he has worked in the fields of community and public art, most often as a muralist – including a mural with local artists at Goroka in Pa-

pua New Guinea - but also as a cartoonist, comic book writer and artist. Sowersby sees art as having the potential to be an agent of social change, often working at a “micro level� with small groups or in communities. Many of his projects have involved working with at risk young people or disadvantaged adults, using art as a means of promoting a sense of selfworth and hope. Sowersby has won the People’s Choice for the Bald Archy Prize for satirical portraiture three times, 1998, 2004 and in 2005 with The Cardinal with his Abbott, a portrait of George Pell and Tony Abbott.

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PAGE 2 Frankston Times July 2011

Crossing reflections: Tony Sowersby finds inspiration at the level crossing nar his Seaford home.

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The ‘truth’ about rates

By Keith Platt HOMEOWNERS in Frankston are paying higher rates than those with a property of the same value on the Mornington Peninsula or in Dandenong. A house valued at $500,000 in Frankston would be charged $1507 while one across the road on the peninsula would receive a rates bill for $1158 – a difference of $348. Frankston collects about 80 per cent of its $80 million rate revenue from residential properties while the shire council gets 85 per cent of $96.6m. Officially, the councils each claim to be among the lowest-rating municipalities, but it is difficult making a valid comparison. Frankston says it has the eighthlowest rates among Melbourne’s metropolitan councils while the shire has gone to war against the Herald Sun for reporting it was lifting rates by nine per cent. A peninsula ratepayer group says the shire is collecting nine per cent more in rate revenue, although the actual rate increase is less than that figure. Statistics for the 2011-12 financial year released by the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) show average rates on the peninsula as being $1205, or $761 a person, with Frankston at $1373 ($623 a person) and Greater Dandenong $1491 ($618 a person). The average rate across the state was $1472 – $686 a person. However, the figures can be misleading as the average rate is worked out by dividing the number of rateable properties into the revenue gained

from rates – including residential, commercial, industrial and rural properties. In response to inquiries by The News, Frankston makes the distinction that the Mornington Peninsula is a shire and ranks fourth lowest among shires. Greater Dandenong’s website made no such distinction in a graph last year that showed itself and the peninsula as charging the lowest rates of 13 eastern councils. The graph listed Frankston as having the fourth-highest rates. Greater Dandenong says it receives 50 cent of its rate revenue from businesses after deciding to shift the rate burden away from residential ratepayers “who have a low ability to pay rates”. Frankston CEO George Modrich said his council uses the MAV’s figures to compare rates to other metropolitan councils. “The MAV’s 2010-11 survey showed Frankston eighth lowest behind Monash, Whitehorse, Casey, Banyule, Glen Eira, Knox and Maroondah.” Ignoring the old adage of never arguing with anyone who buys ink by the tonne, Mornington Peninsula mayor Cr Graham Pittock has accused the Herald Sun of getting its figures wrong in a story published on Tuesday 21 June. Cr Pittock issued a news release on Tuesday saying the News Corporation-owned newspaper had “wrongly reported” the proposed rate increase as 9.1 per cent “when in fact it is pro-

posed the rate in the dollar will rise by 6.8 per cent and the municipal charge by $10”. “The ‘average’ they reported on included a whole range of things that don’t impact on the year-on-year increase for ‘average’ ratepayers. That increase is 6.8 per cent on rates and $10 on the municipal charge, exactly as we’ve said,” Cr Pittock stated. “The figures quoted by the Herald Sun include revenue generated from the opt-in green waste service and the differential rate on vacant land, averaged across all ratepayers. “This is not an apples-with-apples comparison. On an apples-with-apples basis, the proposed increase is exactly what we said – 6.8 per cent on rates and $10 on the municipal charge.

“Our council strives to deliver value for money, to be ‘mean with a quid’ and innovative so that we keep our rates among the lowest in Victoria. “Currently, we’re the fifth-lowest rating council in the state, and the lowest of the eight ‘interface’ councils, so it’s pretty disappointing that the Herald Sun gets it wrong in this way. “We increase rates, reluctantly, to deliver the services and infrastructure our community is asking for, but we are very much aware of affordability issues.” Mornington Peninsula Ratepayers Association secretary Alan Nelsen said the shire was “raising close to nine per cent extra from rates this year”. “I can’t find another council with a debt as high as ours – $35 million.

“We pay high rates because they allowed it to get to $40 million over the past 10 years. “In that same time, our rates have gone up 100 per cent. “Nothing else has gone up as much, except maybe house prices. “Rates are cunningly snuck up by six or eight per cent a year.” Mr Nelsen blamed some extra costs on “pet projects” of council officers “such as Pelican Pantry at Hastings – $1 million over three years; the Stony Point ferry proposal – $250,000; and a cross-peninsula bus service”. He said training people for the hospitality business, and running buses and ferries “are really state government responsibilities”.

Library’s offering holiday fun FRANKSTON Library in Playne St, Mahogany Neighbourhood Centre in Frankston North and Carrum Downs Library offer activities for children during the holidays. Highlights include the chance to see native Australian animals, make a space ship, gardening, sing, dance and more.  Frankston Library, 60 Playne St, Frankston: Wii Challenge, Friday 8 and 15 July, 1.30-3pm. Children aged 5-12 can bring friends, enjoy games and win prizes. Tiny Tots Storytime, Wednesday 13 July, 10.30-11am. Story reading session for children aged 0-2 years.  Carrum Downs Library, 203 Lyrebird Dve, Carrum Downs: Toy Story, Wednesday, 6 July, 11.30am-12.30pm. Children aged 5-12 years can make their own Toy Story character or craft. Tiny Tots Storytime, Thursday 7 July,

1.30-2pm. Stories, songs, music and rhymes for children aged up to 2 years. Animals of Oz, Tuesday 12 July, 11.30am-12.30pm or 1-2pm. The library comes alive with a range of native animals to watch, touch, smell and appreciate. Suitable for children 4-12 years. Space Craft Creations, Thursday 14 July, 1.30-2.30pm. Children aged 5-12 years can create their own space ship to take home.  Mahogany Neighbourhood Centre, 26 Mahogany Ave, Frankston North. Easy Peasy Playday, Tuesday 5 July, 9.30-11am or 11.30am-1pm. Enjoy dancing, gardening, craft, storytime and activities for children aged 3-7 years. Only $3 a family. For more information or to reserve a place call 9784 1020.

Frankston Times July 2011

PAGE 3

NEWS DESK

Life lessons learnt from stressful time Book to guide women on health challenges By Keith Platt AFTER twice being laid low by illness and gaining good health following months of research Eva Torning decided to write a book so others could easily benefit from what she had discovered. The self-described former corporate high flyer thought she was succeeding in her life as a single mother of two daughters until, aged 30, she was hit by a series of health “challenges”. Relief for one of the major ailments came through using natural and alternative healing methods. This sparked an ongoing interest in natural therapies, eventually leading to her being classed as a certified master and practitioner of neurolinguistic programming (NLP), a hypnotist and gaining qualifications in reiki, pranic healing and emotional freedom techniques (EFT). About 10 years ago Torner was again “burnt out” and facing hormone-based health problems. Once again she turned to her own resources for a cure, finding that conventional medicine was not helping. The collected results of her experiences were the inspiration and the

content for her book, Hormone Hell to Hormone Heaven. Sitting in her Mt Eliza home Torner said most books dealing with women’s health are complicated and written by men. “There was no way I could sit my kids down and talk about my experiences, but I thought if these lessons were recorded there would be a chance they’ll read them.” But of course the potential audience was much larger than her own family. Much of Torner’s work and writing deals with easing the ailments caused by stress, “something that hits us and threatens our survival”. Stress caused by financial problems frequently causes “deep-seated fears that we often don’t acknowledge … not a good state from which to solve our problems”. Torner says reversing the “downward spiral” of stress “can only happen when you’re in another state of mind”. “We need to interupt the pattern, break the cycle of thought. “The quality of thinking depends on your emotional state. “People get scared to find out the details of their true position. We do have

at

inner wisdom, but you need to tap into it. “I look at a life as a journey, with obstacles being part of the story. “You need to decide where you want to be – there is something bright and shiny down the track that can act as your compass. Set goals, make a road map.” Torner believs “everything is possible” but people are limited by their emotions and beliefs. “These feelings can be catastrophic, making things, problems, seem bigger than they are.” She wants to give people the techniques to identify their inhibitions and the ability to “blast through them”. “A lot of wealthy people are not happy and I won’t write a book on how to be a multimillionaire until I am one. “The unconscious mind will help devise ways of reaching goals.” Eva Torner’s book is available at book sytores or visit www.hormonehelltohormoneheaven.com/about_eva. Self help: Eva Torner, right, has turned her health challenges into a book that she believes can help women change their lives.

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Family child care costs on the rise By Mike Hast HUNDREDS of families using Take A Break occasional child care at five Frankston area community centres will have to pay extra fees from next January. Some occasional child care programs may close, warn community house workers. The federal government withdrew its 70 per cent of funding a year ago without notifying the state government in advance. The state government made up the shortfall for a year, but this ended on 30 June, and now the Baillieu government is withdrawing its 30 per cent on 31 December. The cuts will affect Mahogany Neighbourhood House in Frankston North, Lyrebird Community Centre in Carrum Downs, Karingal Neighbourhood House, Langwarrin Community Centre and Orwil Street Community Centre in Frankston.

Families may have to pay increased fees unless the state and federal governments reinstate funding to subsidise community-based occasional child care. More than 9000 families across the state are caught up in a stoush between the two governments over subsidies that keep the services operating. The crisis started last year when the federal government cut its share of the jointly funded TAB program. The Brumby state government expanded its contribution to cover the full cost as an interim measure and commissioned a report on this type of care in Victoria, but the Baillieu government announced in the state budget it would stop funding the program at the end of the year. The results of the occasional child care report have not been released by the government despite requests from the Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning Centres.

ANHLC executive officer Angela Savage said both levels of government should come to the table to negotiate a solution to ensure this vital service. “Without the subsidy, many centres will be forced to increase fees in the short term and this could also lead to cuts in services,” she said. Subsidies for many centres are not large, but cuts would have a major impact on fees and the ability to assist families in crisis who need occasional child care but lack the extra money. Frankston area community centres support many families with various problems, for example, families where the main breadwinner is out of work, grandparents caring for disabled grandchildren, and parents with difficult children. “The majority of community centres across the state run very close to the bone financially and many regularly run at a loss, using funds from things like room hire to subsidise the

program,” Ms Savage said. A report prepared for the federal government in 2007 highlighted the social and economic value of occasional child care. “We are talking about a low-cost, high-impact program,” Ms Savage said. “Both governments are saving a pittance from cutting these funds, while causing real distress for the 220 communities that will lose services or incur unaffordable fee hikes.” The association is lobbying state and federal governments for a sustainable solution. “The community deserves a comprehensive not ad hoc approach, which recognises that affordable occasional child care is needed by families throughout Victoria,” Ms Savage said. “It is time for governments to stop pointing the finger at each other and start working on a solution before it is

too late.” Frankston-based Federal Dunkley MP Bruce Billson has weighed into the issue and was part of a protest on the steps of the Victorian Parliament last week. Mr Billson told protesters that while millions of dollars were being spent by Canberra on new child care laws and safety standards, not one cent was going into occasional care. “The cuts will have a flow-on effect with job losses and parents struggling to find alternative care arrangements for their children,” he said. “Not all of us can or do work full time. Not all can afford or need fulltime childcare. Minister Kate Ellis needs to understand we can’t all fit within her tick-a-box approach to the industry.” He said a Liberal government would restore the $12 million removed from occasional care.

Seniors have gone solar THE Seaford Senior Citizens Club has gone solar courtesy of Frankston Council. Club members helped install a three-kilowatt solar power system last Thursday at the club in Broughton St. It will generate about 3500 kilowatts a year and save more than $600. The club’s solar system is the latest to be installed by the council. It will cut almost five tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year. “Solar systems have been installed at Karingal PLACE, Montague Park Preschool and Mater-

nal and Child Health Centre, and Botany Park Maternal and Child Health Centre,” mayor Kris Bolam said. Other energy efficiency works are underway at the civic centre in Davey St, Pines Forest Aquatic Centre and the council’s field operations centre (works depot) in Seaford – all part of the council’s energy efficiency works program and another step towards Frankston’s long-term aim of becoming carbon neutral.

Carrum Downs Community Bank’s® interest is U

Proud supporter of local bowlers Reflections: Sculpture park kids, a photo by Jan Wells, which took second prize in this year’s Focus on Frankston Photography Competition run by Frankston Council, and Matthew Harding’s Primordial, which won the $20,000 Frankston City People’s Choice Award.

Dame and symbol of a goddess share limelight THE McClelland Gallery celebrated its 40th anniversary with the announcement of the $20,000 Frankston City People’s Choice Award and the opening of the Elisabeth Murdoch Walk. The events received prime time coverage on television with Dame Elisabeth Murdoch and state Premier Ted Baillieu fronting a large audience at the gallery and sculpture park in McClelland Dve, Langwarrin. Langwarrin’s most famous resident, philanthropist Dame Elisabeth, looked well for her 102 years as she shared jokes with the premier. The people’s choice award was won by Matthew Harding for his work Primordial, which he said symbolised the ancient Greek myth of Nyx, the Goddess of the night who laid a silver egg from which Eros set in motion the creation of the universe. The sculpture consists of two stainless steel eggs, highly polished and reflective of the viewer and the surrounding environment. Gallery director Robert Lindsay said Primordial showed superb craftsmanship. “They are beautiful objects and Matthew’s use

of reflected images, which involve the viewer visually as well as symbolically, remind us that we are part of the forces that shape the future destiny of the universe,” he said. The Frankston City award goes to the sculpture who receives the most public votes over the seven months of the McClelland Sculpture Survey with its 34 participating sculptors. Frankston mayor Kris Bolam said the McClelland Sculpture Survey and Award was an important outdoor sculpture exhibition on the Australian art calendar and aims to develop and grow contemporary sculpture. Since opening in November 2010, the sculpture survey has attracted a record audience of more than 70,000. It is open till 17 July and entry is free. The survey and award is supported by the Balnaves Foundation and the Elisabeth Murdoch Sculpture Foundation. The McClelland Gallery + Sculpture Park is at 390 McClelland Dve, Langwarrin, and is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. For details call 9789 1671 or visit www.mcclellandgallery.com

Our branch has proudly served the community from 1999. Since then we have given back more than $1,000,000 to more than 70 local groups and organisations - including local bowling clubs

So bank with us and make a real difference for your community. Visit Carrum Downs Community Bank at Shop 3, Carrum Downs Shopping Centre or phone 9782 9788 to discuss all your banking needs.

Frankston Times July 2011

PAGE 5

NEWS DESK

Govt call to open green wedges By Mike Hast CALLS to open up Melbourne's precious green wedges to development have been given a boost by the Baillieu government's planned overhaul of the greater Melbourne planning scheme. A report in The Age newspaper late last month said the government would consider expanding development in green wedges as it prepares a new planning blueprint to replace the previous Labor government's Melbourne 2030 strategic planning policy. The report said an audit of green wedges had started. The proposal, to be released in early 2013, could see tourist hostels, wineries, schools and religious centres in green wedge zones. The southeast green wedge – parts of which occupy Skye, Carrum Downs and Langwarrin in Frankston City – is one of 12 in greater Melbourne, most of which are non-urban zones between transport corridors. They were established about 40 years ago by the Hamer Liberal government with then Premier Rupert Hamer and then planning minister Alan Hunt leading the charge. The Baillieu government's plans for green wedges will come as no surprise to many people as former Labor planning minister Mary Delahunty in 2004 accused Ted Baillieu of having secret plans to develop "sensitive environmental areas like the Mornington Peninsula and the Dandenongs". She said in August 2004: "Liberal planning spokesman Ted Baillieu has revealed the Liberal Party's intention to abandon protection for Melbourne's

Saving water LYREBIRD Community Centre could save 250,000 litres of water a year with new taps, more efficient toilets and a tank. Frankston Council won a $9000 South East Water grant to improve water efficiency at the centre and adjacent toy library. Contractors are installing valves to reduce the flow rate of taps, replacing inefficient 11 and 5 litre toilets with a 6 and 3 litre water ones, and a 5000-litre rainwater tank for flushing toilets. In 2006, the council set the goal of cutting water use by 48 per cent in seven years, achieved just two years later.

Golf for women

Cleared wedge: Seaford conservationist Alison Kuiter is a distant figure in an area of Pobblebonk Reserve off McClelland Dve cleared for the Peninsula Link freeway last year. The under-construction freeway is clearing a swathe through the green wedge zones of Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula but open spaces could come under more development pressure.

12 green wedges. "Mr Baillieu told a Property Council lunch in Melbourne today that the Liberal Party in government would reconsider what land should be protected in Melbourne's green wedges." In 2003, the Bracks Labor government passed legislation as part of Melbourne 2030 to protect green zones, although this did not stop it continuing with the release of thousands of hectares for housing developments started by the Kennett Liberal government. This included the Sandhurst housing estate on Thompsons Rd near Skye and the Waterways estate on Springvale Rd between Braeside and Keysborough.

Two years ago the Brumby government asked all municipalities to prepare their own green wedge management plans to give certainty to protection of the areas. Some councils have completed their plans, but others are dragging their heels, including Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. Defenders of the South East Green Wedge president Barry Ross said Frankston's plan appeared to be in limbo. "We've heard nothing about it," he said. "Frankston's neighbour City of Kingston is well advanced and has completed the public consultation phase." Mr Ross said Frankston's record of

preserving green wedge land was the worst of any council prior to 2000, but tougher rules introduced by the Labor government had stopped Frankston carving up the green wedge. The Defenders were apprehensive about the Baillieu government plan. "We understand planning minister Matthew Guy has written to all councils and asked them for 'logical inclusions' of developments in green wedge land. This makes us very nervous. "It raises expectations of farmers who own green wedge land. They'll start banging on government doors and asking for rezoning. Developers are waiting in the wings, watching the process with great interest."

CENTENARY Park Golf Course is offering women a free beginner’s lesson and coffee at the cafe. The free tuition is from Monday 18 July to Sunday 24 July, 9.30-10.30am. Bookings essential on 9789 1480. The course is on Centenary Park Dve, off McClelland Dve, Frankston (Melway map 100 F11). Visit centenarypark.com.au for details.

Winter pyjama party FRANKSTON Youth Resource Centre is holding a Pyjama Movie Day in support of Mission Australia instead of its annual Winter Sleepout. It’s at 1-4pm on Friday 15 July at YRC, Ross Smith Avenue, Frankston. People aged 12-24 are invited to attend in their PJs, make a donation, eat popcorn and sausages and watch movies, including a blockbuster and a Salvation Army documentary on youth homelessness. To register, call 9768 1366 or go to www.wintersleepout.com.au

Port plan may take 13 years

B E L E U R A

the Mornington the House House & & Garden Garden -- Mornington

IT could be 13 years before Hastings gets the container port expected to bring increased prosperity to the area. Despite the publicity surrounding the state government’s commitment to fast-tracking development of the port, Planning Minister Matthew Guy has told parliament it will be built “within the next 10 to 13 years”. The state government says creating a new Port of Hastings Development Authority will set Melbourne’s commercial ports on a path to faster growth through increased capacity and downward pressure on port charges. Legislation establishing the new authority also gives responsibility for Port of Hastings channels and waters to the Victorian Regional Channels Authority. Mr Guy told parliament that a separate container port at Hastings “will deliver the benefits of greater competition to Victorian exporters and consumers of imported goods”.

There is only one Beleura. A wonderful house c.1863. Beleura Beleura sits sits on on top top of of Beleura Beleura Hill Hill surrounded by a garden of great surrounded by a garden of great beauty. beauty. Guided Guided tours tours are are scheduled scheduled on on select select days days throughout throughout the the year. year. We We welcome welcome individual individual and and group group bookings. bookings.

“The government is acting now to ensure that a container port is developed at Hastings within the next 10 to 13 years.” Although the legislation takes control of Hastings away from the Port of Melbourne Corporation, Mr Guy said it would “complement the PoMC in meeting the state’s need for increased port capacity”. He said the monopoly created by the former Labor government “would be likely to delay and obstruct development at Hastings”. The new authority would “facilitate the timely development of the Port of Hastings as a viable alternative to the Port of Melbourne in order to increase capacity and competition in the container ports sector to manage the expected growth in trade”. One of the Port of Hastings Development Authority’s first jobs would be to prepare a development strategy and a “comprehensive business case”. Keith Platt

DNA helps to track fathers Whats W hats o n? on?

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Nov 25th, Nov 25th 25 th,, 26th 26th & 27th. 27t 7th. h. O Step Of Steep Back Baackk Antiques, B Ant ntiq ique iq u s, an ue an Aladdin’s A ad Al addi d n’ di n s cave caave of of For the thee third th th thir hir i d consecutive coonssec ecu uttiv u i e year year Beleura ye Bel eleu eura eu ra together ttog oget ethe herr For kiTchEnalia, Hawthorn, will kiTchE Ena nali lia, lia, a H aw awth wth hor o n, n, w illl sp il sspeak pea eaak of her herr passion paasssi sion on the the he with with The wi Thee Dame Dam amee Nellie Nell Ne llie ll i Melba ie Melba ellbaa Opera Ope pera ra Trust Tru T rust st stuf ufff found foun fo nd in n kitchens. kit itch chen e s. en s Entry Ent Ent ntry ry includes iinc ncllu nc ude ude des Morning M rn Mo nin ng Tea, Teaa, Te a, stuff sh how owca case ca se the se thee Opera Ope p ra r Trusts Tru rust stss young youn yo ung stars un star st arss in n showcase /unch h and and a tour toour ur of of the th he ¿v ¿vee Beleura B le Be l ur uraa .it .i .itchens. itchens ns. an n enthralling ent n hr hral alli al lliing operatic opeeraatiic performance perf pe rfor orma mancce created crea cr eate teed $33 adult/$30 ad dul ult/ t/$3 t/ /$30 0 concession. conc co nces nc e si es sion on.. espe es peeci c al ally ly to to entertain ente en tert rtai ain ai n Beleura B le Be leur ura patrons. ur p tr pa t on ons. s.. especially Visitor information & reservations

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HELPING prove the identity of a child’s father has become a growing part of work provided by Peninsula Community Legal Centre. In the past 10 years the centre has helped “hundreds of mothers … to prove the identity of the father of their child”, says the centre’s principal lawyer Victoria Mullings. “It is a right of a child to know who their parents are and it is something that most of us take for granted.” Ms Mullings said tracking a father’s identity was one of the services offered under the centre’s child support program. “DNA testing is currently the most advanced and accurate technology to determine parentage. “In a DNA parentage test, the result, which is

called the ‘probability of parentage’, is 0 per cent when the parent is not biologically related to the child and typically greater than 99.9 per cent when the parent is biologically related to the child. “Simply knowing who both their parents are can make a huge difference in the lives of children, as well as ensuring that children are financially provided for by both parents.” Ms Mullings said children had the right to know who their parents were under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which started in 1989. Peninsula Community Legal Centre’s child support program is one of many free legal services it offers. Call 9783 3600 or www.pclc.org.au.

Savings Sav ings through new ‘deals’ website PENINSULA Creative has launched a website that it says can save up to 80 per cent on goods and services from businesses from Brighton to Portsea. The website offers a deal of the day.

The website has been set up in the same way as some of the daily deal sites run by some television channels. To find a deal, log on to www.peninsulalive.com.au and sign in.

Card’s award splash FRANKSTON mayor Kris Bolam led a delegation to Canberra last month to collect an award for the city’s Splash Card, which gives students discounts at 50 of the city’s businesses. “Not only has the Splash Card contributed to the vibrancy of Frankston ‘s city centre, it has also boosted busiTop card: In Canberra to collect an award are, from left, Frankston mayor Kris Bolam, Australian Local Government Association president Genia McCaffrey, Splash Card instigator Jonathan Reichwald, economic development coordinator Samantha Jackson and Minister for Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government Simon Crean.

ness activity and promoted job opportunities for young people” the Minister for Regional Australia, Rural Development and Local Government Simon Crean said. Mr Crean presented Frankston with one of two national awards for excellence in local government. “I congratulate your council and community on its innovative discount card designed to help students find bargains and local job opportunities,” Mr Crean said. The Splash Card, which also won the Inspired Cities Award earlier this year, was devised by Jonathan Reichwald, a member of council’s urban strategy team.

Tip delay leads to collection extension FRANKSTON’S subsidised “at-call” hard waste collection service has been extended until 30 September. The service was introduced following the unexpected closure of the Skye waste transfer station in Harold Rd last November, leaving the city without a tip. The tip closure has seen Frankston looking untidy as some residents dump rubbish in back streets, vacant blocks and reserves. The Skye waste station, operated by landowner Rusty French and French waste management company Veolia, was closed by the council after it claimed Mr French’s Skye Sands had not completed agreed works. Frankston was forced to find a new

waste site after closing the councilowned transfer station in Centenary Park Dve in February 2010 to make way for Peninsula Link freeway. Skye was expected to be reopen in April, but has been delayed as landscape and environmental management works are completed. The at-call service allows each household a 33 per cent discount on one collection of hard waste, with two cubic metres being collected for $50. Subsequent collections cost $75, but most waste transfer stations charge about $100, the council says. “Skye Sands, which owns the waste transfer centre in Skye, has indicated the centre is likely to reopen in early October this year,” mayor Kris Bolam

said last week. “We are extending the at-call service so residents are not inconvenienced – it is the common sense thing to do. “While the council is subsidising the collections, we are also dedicating additional mobile cameras and local laws officers to catching those who illegally dump rubbish. “Residents can also use a range of other options for legally disposing of their waste, including use of waste transfer centres in neighbouring municipalities,” Cr Bolam said. Unlike the annual hard rubbish collection where items are left on nature strips, at-call items must be left inside the owner’s property. To book a pick-up, call the council

on 1300 322 322. Items collected will be the same as the annual hard waste collection with the exception of mattresses, which will not be collected. More details are available at www. frankston.vic.gov.au or by phoning the council.

Where to dump it RUBBISH centres in neighbouring municipalities include:  SITA, 274 Hallam Rd, Hampton Park, phone 9554 4555.  Clayton South regional landfill, corner Clayton and Ryans Rds, Clayton, 9558 0112.  Kingston waste transfer station, 2430 Fonceca St, Mordialloc, 9580 4842.  Tyabb transfer station, 21 McKirdys

Rd, Tyabb, 1300 850 600. Mornington transfer station, 134 Watts Rd, Mornington, 1300 850 600. 

Other options  Obtain a 240-litre garden waste bin from Frankston Council, collected fortnightly (for garden waste only).  Visit www.recyclingnearyou.com to find recycling or safe disposal outlets nearby.  Use a private collection service or skip.  Donate quality goods (including clothing, furniture, books and home wares) to charity.  Compost and worm farm your food scraps.

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PAGE 7

NEWS DESK

Asphalt plant a sticky issue for govt By Mike Hast PLANNING Minister Matthew Guy is likely to decide the fate of the Boral asphalt plant despite Frankston councillors approving the project on Monday last week. Councillors voted 5-3 to allow the plant to be built in an Aidan Graham Pty Ltd quarry site in McClelland Dve, Langwarrin, after refusing it in early June when the vote was 2-6. Three councillors have now changed their vote. Conservation group Defenders of the South East Green Wedge says it will appeal the decision in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, (VCAT) but the tribunal is fully booked until mid-October and Boral wants the plant operating by August. The matter is likely to be called in by Mr Guy to enable the plant to be fast tracked. At Langwarrin, Boral will produce 400,000 tonnes of asphalt over 18 months working night and day for the controversial Peninsula Link freeway being built between Carrum Downs

and Mt Martha. The Defenders say putting an asphalt plant in the green wedge zone violates planning laws. “Boral has been able to gain EPA approval to build an asphalt plant in the green zone as it is using sand from the Graham quarry,” said Barry Ross of the Defenders. More than 50 Langwarrin residents opposed to the plant packed the gallery at the council meeting on Monday 27 June. After the vote approving the plant, there was silence in the gallery. No one understood what had happened until Cr Glenn Aitken asked the mayor Kris Bolam to explain the decision. The gallery erupted with anger seconds later with former Frankston mayor and Langwarrin resident Rochelle McArthur among people yelling at councillors. After the meeting, Ms McArthur told The Times the councillors were supposed to represent residents, not big business.

“This plant could have been built in Montrose or Dandenong. I’m glad the Defenders are taking it to the VCAT.” Voting for the asphalt plant were councillors Bolam, Christine Richards, Brian Cunial, David Asker and Alistair Wardle, the latter two representatives of Langwarrin area. Against were councillors Aitken, Brad Hill and Alistair Wardle. Cr Sandra Mayer, a Langwarrin resident, left the chamber claiming conflict of interest, as she did when the first vote was taken on 6 June. Councillors who changed their vote and enabled the plant to be approved were Richards, Cunial and Bolam. Cr Richards said she had voted for the Boral plant after hearing the extensive research done by Cr Hampton. “I wouldn’t have voted for the plant if Langwarrin residents were going to suffer,” she said. “I trust Cr Hampton and the evidence he presented on noise, smell and fumes.” She said councillors had visited homes close to the quarry and she was

satisfied the asphalt plant would not have a detrimental affect. Cr Hampton told The Times he had visited a Boral asphalt plant in Somerton and could detect no offensive smell or excessive noise. “I also visited the former asphalt plant site used to build EastLink, which is in Scoresby on VicRoads land,” he said. “I spoke to Knox councillors and they said there had been no objections about noise or smell coming from the plant.” Cr Hampton said the issue of noisy beepers on reversing trucks had been solved, as Boral had given him a verbal undertaking that quieter beepers would be used at Langwarrin. One of 30-plus conditions was that the plant must be removed after Peninsula Link was finished, he said. Cr Hampton said he had spent hours researching the issue. “This is the most time I have spent on a planning application since I started on the council in 1997.” Asked why council planners did not

undertake this research, he said you “can’t leave it to the officers”. He said siting the plant out of Frankston would have meant 2000 extra truck trips into the city. “The information came from Boral.” Cr Hampton said he supported Peninsula Link as it would improve access to EastLink for residents in his ward. He criticised plans by Defenders of the South East Green Wedge to take the matter to the VCAT. “We want to set up a community committee to oversee the Boral project and VCAT might not approve this condition.” Cr Bolam said he also had changed his vote due to Cr Hampton’s research. “We will rely on the EPA and state government to keep Boral on line,” he said. Cr Aitken, who voted against the plant, said it was a case of the administrative good versus the public good. “You can choose to listen to the people or ignore them.”

AN artist’s impression of the expanded Yaringa Marina complete with apartments and extra moorings (centre top) and the existing marina (right), which was built in 1984. The marine service centre is at left.

Yaringa harbour floats $50m expansion plan By Mike Hast PLANS for the expansion of Yaringa Marina on the edge of Western Port at Somerville have been submitted to the federal government, triggering the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. The plan needs approval from the federal government’s Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities before it goes back to Mornington Peninsula Shire and then on public exhibition. It would then go to the state government, which would appoint an independent panel to consider the plan before returning it to the shire. The plans also trigger seven Victorian acts covering the environment, flora and fauna, planning, wildlife, land

PAGE 8 Frankston Times July 2011

protection, coastal management, and native vegetation. The expansion of the complex at the end of Lumeah Rd was first proposed in 2009 and will consist of:  Excavation of a new 300-metre long marina arm on private land to create 200 new wet berths.  A $1 million lock between the existing 300-metre marina arm and the new section to retain water in all tides. The lock would be on public land held under a 21-year lease.  About 200 new dry berths on private land with some under cover in new buildings.  180 holiday apartments beside the new marina arm on private land.  New buildings for the existing marine service centre, which currently is

home to 20 companies. The existing marina has room for 600 boats, 150 in wet berths on leased public land and dry storage for 450 boats on private land. A channel between the two marinas would be 70 metres long, seven metres wide and 2.5 metres deep. The lock would be 25 metres long. Yaringa marina owner Stefan Borzecki, who grew up in Hastings and has owned the marina for almost 30 years, said he had commissioned studies covering Aboriginal heritage, flora and fauna, economic viability, acid sulphate soils, coastal hazards (predicted sea level rise), water circulation, landscape and fire risk. An environment management plan had also been prepared.

Mr Borzecki said construction would employ 860 people and once completed the expansion would generate 200 direct and 600 indirect jobs. Mr Borzecki’s land is zoned Special Use and the leased Crown land is zoned Public Conservation and Resource. The entire complex would occupy 23 hectares. The expansion would entail removal of 3.4 hectares of remnant vegetation, which was being offset by land Mr Borzecki had bought on French Island. “It’s been a long-term dream to expand the marina as we have been at full capacity for some time,” he said. It was well known that expansion of marinas would only be financially viable with accommodation, he said. “I’ll be seeking rezoning for the new

marina basin and the apartments.” Mr Borzecki said no works are proposed in the existing marina basin or along the access channel to deep water. “Apart from the management of tourist accommodation, no new operational activities will occur on the site. “My planners have talked with the shire, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Department of Planning and Community Development, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Port of Hastings, and Country Fire Authority.” The Yaringa plans went to the federal government in the same week that the Baillieu government said it would expand development in green wedge zones (see ‘Govt call to open green wedges’ on page 6).

HISTORY

Photos clockwise from above: The crying baby: Val Stevens at home at the Bittern retirement Village. Iconic figure: Dame Nellie Melba. A cartoon from the time: The incident was noted by Somers resident, the late Harry Harlow Local appearance: Dame Nellie Melba with the Sea Cadet Ccrp outside the Flinders Naval Depot Drill Hall. (Photo from Doug Churcher of Hastings and courtesy of The Balnarring Historical Society).

The day Dame Nellie Melba came to Cerberus By Rod Nuske and Cameron McCullough

IT is 150 years since Helen Porter Mitchell was born on 19th May 1861 in Richmond, Victoria. This young child went on to become Dame Nellie Melba. She became one of the most famous singers of the late Victorian Era and the early 20th century. She was the first Australian to achieve international recognition as a classical musician. Acknowledged as the world’s greatest opera soprano she sang around the globe and with such luminaries as the great Caruso. On the 22nd February 1927, in the twilight of her career, she gave a concert in the Drill Hall at Flinders Naval Depot (HMAS Cerberus). The hall was packed with over 2000 spectators including naval trainees, their friends, and members of the public. She was received by Captain Feakes of the base, and a Guard of Honour of boys from the Cerberus Sea Cadet Corp were paraded at the entrance to the hall. The concert was broadcast by 3LO, but unfortunately some of the items were marred by a crying baby, and interference from the telegraph line to Tasmania which passed nearby.

The crying baby was named Val and her father was Leading Writer Norwood at the Flinders Naval Depot. Somewhat disruptive to the performance, it was insisted on that the baby be quietened or removed before Melba carried on with the concert. That baby, Val Stevens, now resides in the Retirement Village in Bittern. An aspiring singer Frances Queale of Merricks North was taken along by

her parents. She remembered that “... of course she was past her best, but she was given a rousing welcome by all present, and it proved a memorable occasion.” Frances went on with a singing career and was a finalist in the Sun Aria Awards and sang at concerts with conductors such as Sir Bernard Heinze. Late permission was given to the radio station 3LO to broadcast the

concert. It was not until 4pm that a car was dispatched with operators and the microphone and amplifying apparatus. Transmission was obtained over 47 miles of telephone line from the base. This was only the second occasion on which Dame Nellie Melba’s singing has been broadcast, the first being nearly two years before, when she appeared in “La Boheme.” With Dame Nellie Melba were Mr John Lemmone, flautist, and Mr William G. Burrell, accompanist. She was presented with a bouquet by Scout Pallister, and three hearty cheers were given before the concert opened. She contributed four songs, which were heard by listeners all over Australia. She selected “Home, Sweet Home”, “Se Seran Rose”, “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot”, and “Ave Maria”, and the storm of applause from her audience came as a confused roar over the wireless at the end of each number. At the end of the concert, which was the weekly entertainment to the trainees, Dame Nellie Melba was presented with a basket of flowers, Captain Feakes expressed the deepest appreciation of the officers and men at the base of the honour done them by

Dame Nellie. In the afternoon, Dame Nellie Melba inspected the War Memorial Chapel at the base, which is the only naval war memorial in Australia. There were other Melba connections with the peninsula as it is believed that when looking for a country property she visited and considered Coolart, but obviously went elsewhere. She was also a frequent visitor to the property of Beleura in Mornington. Dame Nellie Melba died in St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney in 1931, aged 69, of septicaemia. She was given an elaborate funeral from Scots’ Church, Melbourne, which her father had built and where as a teenager she had sung in the choir. The funeral motorcade was over a kilometre long, and her death made front-page headlines in Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Europe. Billboards in many countries said simply “Melba is dead”. Dame Nellie Melba was buried in the cemetery at Lilydale, near Coldstream. Her headstone bears Mimi’s farewell words: “Addio, senza rancor” (Farewell, without bitterness). Courtesy of Somers Paper Nautilus with exerpts from ‘The Argus’ February 23, 1927. Frankston Times July 2011

PAGE 9

Healthy Living

Your health and wellbeing By Laura Jones BARIATRIC surgery can help people to lose weight and reduce obesity related diseases, by enabling people to become satisfied from smaller amounts of food. However to achieve the best results, patients must also aim to work towards living a healthy lifestyle. My role as a bariatric Dietitian includes providing regular follow up, support and education for patients. In particular I help people to develop a non-dieting approach to their weight loss, which is something a lot of bariatric patients have not achieved before. It is also essential that a patient’s diet is assessed for nutritional adequacy to prevent nutritional deficiencies and related ill health. I also offer suggestions for vitamin

supplementation, quick healthy meal ideas, meal planning and helping patients to understand food labels. Dietitians don’t just help people with improving their nutritional knowledge; they also focus on eating behavior, behavioral change, motivation and more importantly adjusting diet for other health conditions that a patient may have. Only an accredited practicing dietitian can give advice on the nutritional management of chronic diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. In addition, research has shown that regular follow up with your bariatric team, including the dietitian, can lead to better health and weight loss outcomes in patients. In summary, the dietitian can offer patients with plenty of support, motivation and guidance to help them achieve the best possible health and weight loss outcomes after bariatric surgery. For further information, call Lap Surgery on 9760 2777.

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and recreational activities. Seeking assistance from a qualified and experienced Sports Podiatrist can assist with injury and wound healing, end heel, arch and foot pain; address shin, knee and hip pain; assist with adolescent growing pains; slow bunions and arthritis. Paul Dowie – founder of the Foot & Leg Pain Clinics is one of Australia’s leading Sports Podiatrists, with over 15 years experience. He advises that not to put up with pain or discomfort as often there is an easy solution. Paul has been the chosen podiatrist for many celebrated athletes worldwide including seven of the World’s #1 Tennis Players, Olympic gold medalists and many internationally recognized golfers. Whether you’re 8 or 80, if you’re suffering foot and leg pain or injury Foot and Leg pain Clinics can help. Clinics are open across Melbourne including 135 Mt Eliza Way, Mt Eliza - Phone 1300 328 300. Call now for 50% OFF initial consultations.

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Winter is a great time in the garden By Frances Cameron WE reached the midpoint of the year at the winter solstice (the shortest day) on 21 June, so slowly the days will get longer and become warmer. Meanwhile there’s a lot to do in the garden. Because it is winter, deciduous shrubs and trees have lost their leaves. In this state they are dormant but still have the chemicals necessary for growth stored in their stems. This makes it the perfect time to take hardwood cuttings. Hardwood cuttings are so called because this year’s growth has completed its growth, flowering and fruiting stages and has become ‘woody’. Select healthy looking stems about the thickness of a pencil. Cut these into pieces about 20 to 25cm long with at least three buds or sets of buds. The bottom cut should be made directly underneath a bud and the top cut should be at a 45-degree angle about half an inch above another bud. Dip the bottom cut into a rooting hormone (powders and liquids are both widely available) and place it into a fine potting mix or seed raising mix. Cuttings can also be put directly into the ground but I have found it is harder to regulate watering. Be

careful to put the cuttings in the right way up as putting them in upside down will result in failure. A mini hot house is ideal to keep them in but you can do just as well with a plastic bag over the top or by keeping them in a sheltered area out of direct sunlight and wind. Roots will have formed by next autumn when they can be potted on or put in the ground. Shrubs that can be treated in this way include buddleia, dogwood, forsythia, bougainvillea, roses and grapes. Complete pruning this month. Make sure your secateurs, loppers and saws are sharp and clean to reduce the risk of infections entering a jagged wound. Cuts which aren’t ‘clean’ also take longer to heal. In the vegie patch you can put in rhubarb crowns. Prepare the soil well with well rotted compost and leave enough space for the plant to grow: Rhubarb can grow to one metre wide or more. Broccoli and cauliflower that was planted earlier in the year will be forming tight heads by now, keep an eye out for slugs, snails, slaters and earwigs getting up inside the leaves and munching away at them before you get to enjoy them in your

winter stews and casseroles. Keep your iron and vitamin C levels high with spinach and silver beet, both of which can be planted through winter and indeed most of the year. Chard, with bright, colourful stems makes a lovely addition to any vegie patch and is very similar in taste. Also plant cabbage, peas, lettuce, onions and potatoes. On the pest front, I have been having trouble with snails eating my spinach seedlings. I have bought some copper tape to stick onto a wooden frame to place around the seedlings. The idea is that the snails are unable to crawl across the tape as it gives them a small electric shock. Will it stop them completely? I don’t know but it’s worth a try. Keep warm by getting out into your garden and keeping the weeds down. The rain we’ve had is wonderful but it does have a habit of making the weeds explode out of the ground. Winter grass (Poa annua) is a problem in gravel driveways and it finds its way into any spare cracks in the pavement or driveways, be vigilant. Happy gardening!

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Home improvement and the Sicilian defence By Stuart McCullough THE ALAN PARSONS PROJECT was not the name of a home renovation reality show, but it probably should have been. Instead, ‘the Project’ were an English progressive rock band. I am totally unfamiliar with their albums but am led to believe that one of their instrumental pieces -“Sirius” - is commonly used by sporting teams such as the Chicago Bulls. From this I can only adduce that they were a ‘sirius’ band that made very ‘sirius’ music. There is one other thing I know about The Alan Parsons Project. Namely, that during renegotiations with their record label, they submitted an unlistenable, atonal album that was wholly instrumental entitled ‘The Sicilian Defence’. The name, apparently, is derived from an aggressive opening move in chess. Considered even by the band to be an affront to human hearing, it had the desired effect in that it hastened negotiations whilst simultaneously ensuring that ‘The Sicilian Defence’ would remain forever unreleased. How things have changed. It used to be that bands recorded albums that were unlistenable piles of steaming rubbish solely to put the acid on their record company. Now such records are routinely released back into the wild by Justin Bieber. It makes you long for a simpler time…. Back in 1990, things were different. In those days, everything a record company released carried the indisputable weight of quality. It was an era in which the public were

deluged by classic albums by classic artists whose work has withstood the test of time. Like Mount Rushmore, their melodies have been carved deep into the very face of rock and roll and stand forever as a monument to good taste. New Kids on the Block, Snap!, Right Said Fred and Colour Me Bad all had number one hits that year. This, I feel, largely speaks for itself. But amongst this crowd of giants loomed a figure that towered head and

shoulder-pad above the rest. Whilst the name ‘Robbie Van Winkle’ may sound like the work experience kid who just spilled the contents of the toner cartridge down the front of his chinos, Robbie’s notoriety was achieved under a non-de plum. To this day, the name Vanilla Ice causes grown men to shout the rallying cry, ‘kicking it’ and youths armed with graffiti pens to deface stop signs by appending the words, ‘collaborate

and listen!’ Despite this, respect has proved elusive. It’s always been my view that if you are going to go down in history as a one hit wonder, it’s best that you make it an absolute cracker. The song ‘Ice, Ice Baby’ is a work of absolute, if not genius, then of someone who has been homeschooled and received additional tuition from several well qualified tutors. Although the song relied heavily on a sample from the Queen / David Bowie tune ‘Under Pressure’, the Ice-meister quickly had a bona fide smash hit on his hands and the accompanying record, ‘To The Extreme’ sold eleven million copies. It was all downhill from there, and quite steeply so. His collaborator, ‘Chocolate’ (possibly not his real name) complained about a lack of royalty payments. This famously resulted in some gentlemen entering Vanilla’s hotel suite on the fifteen floor and offering to throw him over the edge. His record company; determined to make both hay and as much cash as possible whilst the sun still shone, rushed out a live album ‘Extremely Live’ which one critic described as possibly the most ridiculous album release since ‘The Best of Marcel Marceau’. Movie appearances failed to stem the slide to oblivion. Vanilla had a cameo in the film, ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze’ describing it as ‘one of the coolest experiences’ of his career. Anyone who has heard his records may well agree. Then there was the movie ‘Cool as Ice’ in which he

played the role of Johnny Van Owen. The film is regarded as a vehicle for Vanilla Ice’s acting talents, in which case it’s probably a Datsun 180B or a 1982 Toyota Corolla. Worse was to come – Robbie Van Winkle suffered the ultimate career kiss of death that is dating Madonna and even assisted her attempt at career suicide, a smutdressed-up-as-art-dressed-up-asa-coffee-table-book entitled ‘Sex’. Anonymity ensued. That anyone can be redeemed is a comfort to us all. In the case of Vanilla Ice, he’s returned with his own television program. But this is no mere reality television show about a washed up one hit wonder. No siree. Entitled ‘The Vanilla Ice Project’, it involves Robbie Van Winkle renovating houses. I only hope that other rappers help out. I can imagine an episode in which Ice is installing a set of shelves before ceasing to exclaim, ‘Stop – Hammer time!’ MC Hammer would, of course, have to trade in his trademark silk tracksuit pants for overalls but surely the overall effect would be a sight to see in its own right. Sir Mix-ALot would, of course, be in charge of the cement. Such an undertaking, however, needs someone to oversee the effort to ensure the whole thing comes together. For that reason, it’s inevitable that the entire site would come under the sturdy supervision of The Allan Parsons Project Management Group. Laugh if you will, but I am being absolutely sirius. www.stuartmccullough.com

Lots happening at Santa’s Place SANTA’S Place in Moorooduc hasn’t been taking it easy since Christmas. It has been a hive of activity with worker-elves getting all manner of things accomplished. Judy Reaper said: “Santa’s Place is pleased to announce we now have a liquor licence and will be able to serve alcohol from August. “A new ‘Mother’s Room’ is also under construction and will be ready by November. “Our popular coffee shop will be back again this year, with some great improvements, including disabled access.” Christmas will come around fast, and Santa’s Place is kicking off the run-up with a July sale, right through the month. “There will be big discounts on every-

The most ridiculous and strange, fresh for you...

Joke!!!

thing, so get in early and save. “There will be new stock arriving every week between now and Christmas, and new sale items during the entire sixmonth period. “As usual, the shop is a hot-bed of ideas on how you can decorate your home, so come in and get inspired. “If you are looking for special or unique items, come in early and give our friendly staff time to source those items to your requirements.” Santa’s Place is on the corner of Moorooduc Hwy and Bentons Rd in Moorooduc. The phone number is 5978 8500. You can visit them on the web at www.santasplace.com.au

RIddle Solution

Three ladies were discussing the travails of getting older. One said, “Sometimes I catch myself with a jar of mayonnaise in my hand, while standing in front of the refrigerator, and I can’t remember whether I need to put it away, or start making a sandwich.” The second lady chimed in with, “Yes, sometimes I find myself on the landing of the stairs and can’t remember whether I was on my way up or on my way down.” The third one responded, “ Well, ladies, I’m glad I don’t have that problem. Knock on wood,” as she rapped her knuckles on the table, and then said, “That must be the door, I’ll get it!”

ANSWER: On the one person’s head.

Sudoku Solution

Frankston Times July 2011

PAGE 13

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

Entertainment JOHN Farnham began his musical career at age six and was a regular performer at charity shows around Essex in the United Kingdom with his uncle before John migrated to Australia in 1959. He became a regular on the TV series Kommotion before landing a contract with EMI Records in 1967. John had his first hit record, Sadie (The Cleaning Lady), the same year and it went to No. 1 A list of hits followed including Underneath the Arches (1967), Rose Coloured Glasses (1968), another No. 1 hit Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head (1969), Help (1980) and many more including his huge 1986 hit You’re the Voice. Whispering Jack, John’s 12th studio album, was released on 20 October 1986. To celebrate Australia’s most successful album, John will embark on a national tour in October – 25 years to the day of the album’s release. John and his band will perform the first half of the show unplugged featuring special versions of some of his biggest hits as never heard before. The second half of the show will feature his band – Chong Lim, Stuart Fraser, Brett Garsed, Lindsay Field, Angus Burchall, Craig Newman, Bob

Coassin, Steve Williams, Dannielle Gaha and Lisa Edwards – performing for the first time on stage the entire Whispering Jack album, a must-see for any music fan. Whispering Jack was recorded in Melbourne after John, his manager Glenn Wheatley and award-winning producer Ross Fraser listened to hundreds of songs sent in from all over the world. The iconic album took more than 12 months to make. All involved felt

it was going to be something special. The first single from the album, the anthemic You’re the Voice, restored Farnham to number one for the first time in 17 years. Whispering Jack became the biggest-selling Australian album of all time. The hits kept coming with Pressure Down, Reasons and A Touch of Paradise. The album went on to be awarded 24 platinum albums, selling more than 1.7 million copies and spending 26

weeks at the No. 1 spot on the ARIA charts. You’re the Voice also sold a million copies in Europe and reached the top 10 in the United Kingdom. At the inaugural ARIA awards in Sydney in 1987, Whispering Jack won six Arias for best adult contemporary album, best male artist, highest selling album, highest selling single (You’re the Voice), single of the year, and album of the year. This prompted the awards host, Elton John, to suggest renaming the Arias the ‘John Farnham Awards’. In 1988, John again picked up best male artist and the prestigious outstanding achievement award based on the success of Whispering Jack. In the same year, John was named Australian of the Year and was awarded an Order of Australia. You’re the Voice became one of the standout No. 1 songs on the Australian charts of the 1980s and still remains a staple of Australian radio. Whispering Jack restarted John’s career and kept it rolling across two more decades. It was the best charting album in Australia in the 1980s decade, ahead of such greats as Meatloaf’s Bat Out of Hell, Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms, The Best of Abba and Michael Jack-

why didn’t this same branding apply to Sir Ken, all the way from England? Sir Ken is a fellow of the highest integrity and we appreciated his advice on matters pertaining to our police force. I urge our Premier (and Greg Davies) to convey our thanks and best wishes for a successful future in the “old country”. Unless they want him back, heaven forbid? Why do they refer to him as Sir Ken? Why not Ken Jones? Respect? I see, I think? Farewell Simon. *** UNCOMMON sense is drowning us. My mate Eddie, top Magpie representing my black and white boys, sets himself up as the sole arbiter of what can be said and not said at a football match, and follows up by brazenly giving an interview justifying his actions, a la Malthouse. I realise you go to great lengths to be loved, Eddie mate, but in the process of fame it’s necessary to have a reality check on a regular basis. You’re not invincible, Eddie. Beware. *** WE have among us three types of both male and females who form part of

the fabric of our everyday lives, never forgetting the fourth type, the majority (the goodies) like you and I. First the insignificant smart alec who struts around with an inflated ego, but is easily dodged, easily recognised and generally harmless. The second is of course the smart arse; more dangerous, more cunning, mostly, but not easily recognised, and always capable in the area of badmouthing anyone who challenges, however unwittingly, their self-inflated often false opinion. They spend much of their spare time believing everything editorialised in the Herald Sun. The third type represents the real danger. There is no name for them. They are one of us, ever so nice to the “right” people, often handsome/pretty, free with compliments. They travel with as many faces as necessary and work undercover, ever scheming to undermine all opposition to their ambitions, which can take the form of a job, a social network or simply their own family network. Most of us take these types at face value. They run rampart throughout the arts, the public service, politics and any situation where there are less jobs and more people avail-

able. Even if warned we may only find the truth after the busy bee has stung, if at all. Most of us think we can pick them. Most of us cannot. *** TO state health minister David Davis: by all means bring in the plain packaging on cigarettes; ban smoking in outdoor areas of cafes if you must, but please, I beg of you, stop this propaganda about passive smoking based on unconfirmed pseudo research. Either that or ban motor vehicles. I’m in danger of sounding like Derryn Hinch, worse still Neil Mitchell. Yuk! *** CAT on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams with my first love Elizabeth (Taylor) and my lookalike Paul (Newman). Big Daddy (Burl Ives) was worth $10 million in cash and securities ($1 billion today) and had 200,000 acres of prime beef land all to go to Paul when Big Daddy carked it, which was not long off (even though he had a brother, Jack Carson). Was Paul happy? Not a bit of it. All he wanted was Big Daddy’s love. He was festering because Big Daddy had never told him that he loved him. Fascinating. Come to think of it, I’ve never told my 47-year-old son either. Too late now.

with Gary Turner son’s Thriller. It was appropriate that Whispering Jack was the first Australian-made album to be released on CD in Australia. The story continues with the 2011 tour, Whispering Jack … 25 Years On. John Farnham will perform at the Palais Theatre on Wednesday 9 and Friday 11 November. Tickets on sale now 136 100. www.johnfarnham.com.au Top 10 albums 1 From You – Daniela Corso 2 The Road from Memphis – Booker T. Jones 3 Philharmonics – Agnes Obel 4 Destination Now – The Potbelleez 5 Whispering Jack – John Farnham 6 Hard Bargain – Emmylou Harris 7 Clapton – Eric Clapton 8 101 Power Ballads – Various 9 A Treasure – Neil Young 10 Old Paint – Gina Jeffreys

A Grain of Salt AS one of 46 per cent of Mornington Peninsula voters who did not vote Liberal at the federal election, I feel obliged to give Julia some advice. Prior to dumping Kevvy you were a popular deputy PM. Now, with two years to run as Prime Minister, you are sinking fast; quicksand. The Opposition may be just as hopeless, but this does not alter the fact. So consider the option of sinking with your head held high. Go all out for a carbon tax to reduce emissions as Australia’s contribution to a possible solution to climate change. Equally as vigorously tackle the asylum seekers debate with a clear aim of not only dealing with these unfortunate people with a degree of morality, but also hopefully enhancing our reputation as a nation doing our best to share this world problem. *** THE feud between the Police Association and Simon Overland remains a mystery to us mere mortals. Previously it was Paul Mullett versus Christine Nixon, then Greg Davies (with help of the Herald Sun) versus Simon Overland, pushing the notion that they were both “outsiders”. If considered so,

with Cliff Ellen He’ll know anyway when he has to fork out for my funeral. *** TRUTH? I approach the RSL bar to order a pot of draught beer and the gorgeous barmaid (barman?) says “How are you today?” I can’t very well say “Well, darling, I’m in denial about the uncertainty of my future and the constancy of loneliness”. So I say “Good, how are you?” And darling replies likewise. That’s life. “The time will come when people will not listen to sound doctrine, but will follow their own desires and will collect themselves more and more teachers who will tell them what they are itching to hear.” (2 Timothy 4:3) Why is it that every winter females rush to make pea and ham soup? Adios. cliffie9@bigpond.com

Did you know... you can now view our papers online at: www.mpnews.com.au PAGE 14 Frankston Times July 2011

Ice-cool Sam chasing glory in Finland By Mike Hast THERE’S a shortage of ice skating rinks in Crib Point, but this hasn’t stopped teenage ice hockey prodigy Sam Hodic. The 14-year-old left Melbourne for Finland on Tuesday to join the (ice) cream of world hockey juniors jostling for a place at the inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games in Innsbruck, Switzerland, next January. Sam and just one other young Aussie – 17-year-old Sharnita Crompton of NSW – have been selected by the Australian Olympic Committee for a qualification event at the International Ice Hockey Federation’s development centre in Vierumaki, Finland. The world’s best young players will attend the camp and compete in a series of intense skills tests for speed, shooting accuracy and agility over three days. The top 15 boys and 15 girls from nations not qualified in the team event will go to Innsbruck. Sam has a crowd of supporters behind his rise to the top, including Western Port businesses, but his biggest fan is undoubtedly his dad Jamie, who works for BlueScope Steel contractor Roll Surface Technology at the cold mill in Hastings. Who else would pack Sam and his massive ice hockey bag, $1000 skates and $450 hockey stick into the family car at 4.30 in the morning to be on the rink at the new Icehouse in Docklands at 6am? Jamie, a Moorabbin boy who played ice hockey in the 1970s, including for the Victorian team in 1978, is not a pushy parent living through the exploits of his son: “He has to want to do it; I’d be quite happy to stay in bed and dodge the pre-dawn drives to town, but as long as Sam’s enthusiastic, I’m there,” he says matter of factly. Sam has been playing ice hockey for half his life after seeing his first game with a friend when he lived near the Oakleigh ice rink, now closed. The Hodics moved to Crib Point about four years ago and Sam and his dad make the long trip to Docklands several times a week. It’s been a huge year for the teenager. He’s in the Victorian under-18 team

playing in Perth after he gets back from Finland. Then he’s off to Newcastle as a member of the under-15 state team. He’s played for Victoria since age 10. Sam is also in the Melbourne Ice junior development squad and plays for the under-18 Pirates in the Melbourne league.

said. “Finland will be an unreal opportunity; it’s going to be amazing.” Ice Hockey Australia president Don Rurak, travelling with Sam and Sharnita to Finland, is confident the teens can deliver. “I think they have a very good

It’s been a huge year for the teenager. He’s in the Victorian under-18 team playing in Perth after he gets back from Finland. Then he’s off to Newcastle as a member of the under-15 state team. The Ice is Melbourne’s national team and Sam will be allowed to play with the big boys when he reaches 16. There’s little doubt he would already be in the senior squad if not for age restrictions. It’s hockey, hockey, hockey – including in the backyard at home where Jamie has set up a goal for Sam to practise shooting and a series of cones for the teen to run around. Studies at Western Port Secondary College are not ignored as one of Sam’s ambitions is to win a scholarship to an American college and he knows his grades will have to be good. He wants to be a physiotherapist if professional ice hockey is out of reach. Flying to Finland this week is not Sam’s first overseas trip: he went to one-week ice hockey camps in Minnesota, US, and Vancouver in Canada last July. Jamie’s three boys all play sport – eldest Brody, 20, is a vigorous full-back with Australian Rules team Oakleigh Districts and 10-year-old Gus is gun footballer with Crib Point Magpies and a basketballer with Crib Point Seahawks. A deal between Jamie and Sam is for the ice hockey champ to help out at Gus’s footy club, and Gus has become somewhat of a team mascot because of the number of hours he spends rinkside at the Icehouse. Sam’s itching to get to Finland and show his skills to the ice hockey world. “I matched it with 15-year-olds in Minnesota and the best of us trained and played with 17- and 18-year-olds on the last three days of that camp,” he

chance. It is hard to know the standard of other nations, but the Australian players are top quality,” he said. “This is the first time ever for this exciting format and there is a lot of interest. The sun never sets in Finland in July so the kids are in for a fantastic experience.” Jamie was pouring over family finances when The News visited on Friday evening. “The Olympic committee is paying for Sam to go to Finland, but the trips to Perth and Newcastle are my responsibility,” he said. “We’ve had tremendous support in recent years from sponsors, but it’s hard work doing the rounds each year and I’ve had less time to be his marketing manager. Sam’s been involved in more sessions at the Icehouse as he rises through the ranks.” Past supporters have included Neil Rist of Crib Point Cellars, Rob Tuckett of Tyrepower in Hastings, Bittern’s Sunday Market, Hastings real estate agent Ben Tallon, trucking business owner Stuart Burke, Robbie Drever of Drever Automotive Services, Whitehorse Tattoos of Box Hill, Mornington Peninsula Shire, and the Australian Workers Union. “Don’t forget my grandma Rose of Brighton,” chips in Sam, completing an eclectic list of sponsors. Jamie and Sam agree ice hockey has taken off in Melbourne in recent years, especially since the Icehouse opened in early 2010. Saturday night games are packed and the sport is growing around Australia. Don Rurak: “Australia hopes to qualify 14 to 17 athletes across 11 dis-

Ice prince: Sam Hodic on the rink in Kelowna, British Columbia, during his trip to Canada and the United States last winter. The Crib Point teen is just one of two young Australians competing for a place at the inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games in Innsbruck, Switzerland, next January.

ciplines for Innsbruck and continue our recent string of podium performances at Winter Olympics and World Championships. The team will be led by dual Olympic aerial skiing medallist Alisa Camplin.” Australia might not have much snow and ice, but it has dedicated youngsters like Sam Hodic with parents like his dad Jamie; people who will drive for

hours before dawn and again late at night to give their children a chance to follow a dream. Anyone wanting to help Sam Hodic financially can call his dad Jamie on 0423 325 086.  Additional reporting by Andrew Reid, website producer for the Australian Olympic Committee.

Mornington trainer takes home the silverware THE tide turned for Mornington trainer Jason Warren when Bel Sprinter stormed home to the win the Craigieburn Sporting Club at Moonee Valley last Saturday. A gelded son of Black Caviar’s sire Bel Esprit was resuming from a six-month spell so there is obviously considerable room for improvement. An impressive winner at Mornington at his only other appearance, there are many more wins in store for the rising four-year-old. Popular owners Kevin and Tanith O’Brien, who are based at Corinella, were pleased with the effort of General Truce who was runner-up to Bel Sprinter. General Truce, who has proven his ability in group company, is being

aimed at the Sir John Monash Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on 16 July. It is worth noting he was placed behind champion Black Caviar under weight-for-age conditions at Caulfield in last October. Another Mornington-trained galloper to catch the eye was the Clive Balfour-trained Marotta. The fortune of the race went against Marotta when she was finishing fifth ($14) behind another Mornington galloper, Charlie’s Queen, and is worth backing next time she steps out in a similar race. Adelaide-trained David Jolly has been making successful forays into Melbourne of late and looks to have another coming winner in The Long Road. Heavily backed at $3.60, she was tightened for room on several occasions when third to the speedy Mystical Spirit. Colin and Cindy Alderson continued their winning streak when The Tiger

raced away from his rivals over the concluding stages of the Leslie Short Hiskens (2040m) at Moonee Valley. Aggressively ridden by Lisa Cropp, the five-year-old is back to his best and should win a few more before the better horses come back. The Aldersons could notch up another win when Perturbo contests the $150,000 Victorian Sprint Series Final (1200m) at Flemington on Saturday. A noted straight specialist, the five-year-old has reach a new level this campaign and is sure to test the opposition. Dark Note hit a purple patch of form at this time last year and Cranbourne trainer Eric Broomfield has the sevenyear-old back at that level, winning over 2040m at Moonee Valley on 18 June before a luckless third over the same route last Saturday. Sparingly raced five-year old By The Way was on trial at 1500m when fifth to in-form Mr Make Believe at Moonee Valley, but he did hit the

line with gusto and is ready to break through in a similar event up to 1600m. Longshot Overtake wasn’t suited by the pattern of racing when ninth behind the freewheeling Beyond Pardon in the Kyabram Club Handicap, but he did work to the post nicely and will be hard to beat when he drops in grade. Like Moonee Valley, the conditions at Sale were favourable especially considering the time of the year. One of the most notable performers at Sale was the Flemington-trained Sam Le Champ who sprinted quickly over the last 200m to win the 1000m maiden. The son of Fastnet Rock still has plenty to learn, but has the potential to reach city class in the near future. Second-placed Electonic Lan, who is trained by Damien Williams at Cranbourne, should be able to break his duck at his next start. Significantly, Damien’s brother Craig, who is just back from a successful trip to Japan,

went to Sale for the one ride before taking a 10-day holiday. Cranbourne-trained Langridge Street showed potential in a handful of starts earlier this year and is sure to make his presence felt this campaign. A winner over 1600m at Morphettville on his third start, the Elvstroem gelding showed greater tactical speed when second over 1200m. Locally trained Uno No also came under notice when a fast-finishing fourth while others worth backing out of the Sale program are Very Cherry, Bel Rrythm and Lady Mahler. Horse-to-follow Koonoomoo was disappointing at Sandown Hillside last Wednesday but was all at sea on the heavy ground and is worth another chance when she steps out on a drier surface. Best: Sam Le Champ. Upcoming meetings Cranbourne - Sunday 10 July. Mornington – Tuesday 12 July. Frankston Times July 2011

PAGE 15

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