MARCH 2013 Issue 76

HONOURING OUR

Moomba L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival 2013

Hello Kitty Flanagan Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Moomba Celebrating Melbourne’s Culture & Diversity

Time to Cheer School Holidays are here!

MARCH 2013

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mONARCHY OF LOCAL HEROES

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2013 Moomba Monarchy - (L-R): Stephanie Carr (Department of Sustainability and Environment) Alan Eade (Ambulance Victoria and St John Ambulance), Karla Challis (Victoria Police), Sandy Faoro (SES), Major Brendan Nottle (Salvation Army), April Himmelreich (CFA) and Scott McGraw (Metropolitan Fire Brigade).

Photography - Mia Mala McDonald.

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Editor’s NOTE

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MELBOURNE MARCHES INTO AUTUMN

Tom Elliott, Rebecca Howden, Dana Atkin, Simon Curtain, Tahlia Mandie, Shannah Kennedy, Alison Eastaway, Nadine Fawell, Jane M Hutchinson & Nandita Chakraborty.

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This magazine has a distribution of 16,000 copies throughout Melbourne CBD, Docklands, parts of Southbank and rotating through South Melbourne and Port Melbourne and a readership in excess of 40,000.

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CONTENTS

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Artwork by Katie Young Events this March 4-5 Docklands Studios welcomes a new era 7 Melbourne Celebrates Moomba 10 L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival 12 2013 French Film Festival 13 Hello Kitty Flanagan - MICF 14 The All-New Volvo V40 16 Magnam Linea Exhibition 18 Tom Elliott 19 Super – A Cherry Ripe for the Picking 20 Focus on Furniture Grand Opening 22 School Holiday Feature 24-27 Wellbeing 28-31 3000’s Kitchen 31 Docklands’ Writers 32 3000’s Bookshelf 33 Noticeboard 34

Must admit, my head has been in a bit of a spin lately, where does the time go?

Perhaps it’s just me, but it feels like just yesterday we were unwrapping Christmas gifts and lazing about and suddenly here we are in March, it’s the start of Autumn and 2013 is well underway. As the Rolling Stones once sang, ‘time waits for no one’!

Despite this revelation I really enjoy putting the March issue together each year, we Melburnians tend to instinctively rev up our celebratory engines as our city turns on a calendar filled with world class events and festivals.

Moomba is a favourite and the largest community festival of its kind nationwide.

Nudging almost 60 years, Moomba has something for everyone and judging by this year’s festival program, I believe it will be one of the best yet. Please see our overview of events on page 10 and stand with us in saluting the true local heroes of Victoria’s Emergency and Community Services crowned as 2013’s Moomba Monarchy.

Festivals aplenty, the L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival is a highlight along with

the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival,the start of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, French Film Festival and not to forget school holidays are upon us again and of course Easter.

Our Wellbeing section continues to grow, this month we add a new column which will excite the senses, especially those of the tastebud variety as we introduce 3000’s Kitchen featuring recipes from some of Melbourne’s iconic and forefront restaurants, cafes and bars.

There is so much on offer for the kids during the school holidays, check out our guide on pages 24-27 and discover or rediscover our top class family entertainment venues and iconic establishments that not only offer a great visitor experience but create wonderful childhood memories of growing up in such a vibrant and diverse city.

March into autumn as Melbourne shines under the festival city spotlight...

Lisa Quittner editor@magmedia.com.au

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Events

28 Mar

Until 9 Mar

11 Mar Jordie Lane - The DARBOTZ Monster Inside Us Movement Tour Graffiti or street art was never considered to be art until recently in the contemporary art world. Indonesian street artist, Darbotz, started expressing his artwork on the streets of Jakarta and has now evolved to expressing his works on different types of canvases such as fibreglass, wood carvings and linen/cotton canvases. For the first time in Melbourne, Darbotz will give audiences a sneak peek of Indonesian underground street art in the first exhibition at Melbourne Intercultural Fine Art (MiFA).

When: 28 March – 3 May, 2013 Where: MiFA - Level 1, 278 Collins St, Melbourne Further Info: mifa.com.au

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Jordie Lane is a Melbourne born and raised singer- songwriter making his mark internationally. Fresh from his epic Fool For Love single tour late last year and a 6-day Lemon Detox diet over Christmas, Jordie Lane is back on the juice and touring Australia. ‘The Movement Tour’ will see Lane headline at 7 festivals, including Moomba after working in LA on his next record and touring Toronto in February at the world’s largest folk music conference, Folk Alliance.

When: Monday 11 March Where: Moomba Festival Further Info: jordielane.com

23 Mar ZOO TWILIGHTS

Earth Hour 2013

Summer has just ended but there is still time to see some of the best local musical talents live at the Zoo Twilights.

Enjoy a toe tapping good time, enjoy a great selection of food and wine or pre-book a hamper or VIP premium package. Catch the last weeks of the fabulous musical line-up on Friday and Saturday evenings. Selected animal exhibits will remain open after hours and all ticket proceeds help Zoos Victoria fight wildlife extinction.

Last year was the largest Earth Hour in history, with 152 countries and territories joining together in the world’s largest mass movement for the environment.

In Australia where Earth Hour began, over 7 million people switched off their lights to show support for a more sustainable world. This Earth Hour people will come together not only to switch off their lights but also to pledge to switch to renewable energy and commit to do their bit for Australia’s renewable revolution.

Until: 9 March, 7pm (Gates Open 5:30pm) Where: Melbourne Zoo – Elliott Ave, Parkville Bookings & Programme: 1300 966 784 or zoo.org.au/Melbourne

When: 23 March at 8pm Where: Your home, your office Register & Pledge at: www.earthhour.org.au

Events

14 ~ 23 Mar

10 ~ 24 Mar

27 Mar Skeleton by Larissa McGowan

IGGY & THE sTOOGES Guided boat tours ST PATRICKS FAMILY DAY AT WONDERLAND MELBOURNE TOUR of the Port FUN PARK of Melbourne

Part of Dance Massive and choreographed and performed by Australia’s hottest young choreographer Larissa McGowan, Skeleton will be an explosive piece of contemporary dance that explores Larissa’s long-running fascination with the skeletal form. Playing with pop cultural icons including the BMX bike, skateboards, and the high heel, Skeleton explores the strength and vulnerability of the human body in all its forms. McGowan and her dancers will demonstrate a choreographic pace that will make their very bones pop, lock, and pulse in place!

When: 14-23 March-8pm Where: Beckett Theatre – Malthouse, 113 Sturt Street, Southbank Tickets: $30-$49 Bookings: 9685 5100

A decade after the Godfathers of Punk reunited Iggy and the Stooges return to Australia for three headline shows with special guest, The Beasts of Bourbon.

Iconic frontman Iggy Pop will lead guitarist James Williamson, drummer Toby Dammit, bassist Mike Watt and sax player Steve Mackay into rock and roll battle.

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Iggy and the Stooges have influenced generations and rock from hardcore Rollins to The Sex Pistols, The Birthday Party and Kurt Cobain.

When: Wednesday 27 March Where: Festival Hall Tickets: ticketmaster.com.au Web: iggyandthestoogesmusic.com

There’s no better way to see the Port of Melbourne than from the water, so get on board for a free, family-friendly boat tour this March. Departing from Docklands and Williamstown, tours take in all the major port facilities and include a guided commentary from port staff. Get up close to container ships and the massive cranes that service them, see the unique facilities that load and unload the ships that connect Melbourne with the world of international trade.

When: 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24 March Where: Departing Gem Pier – 9:00 am, 11:00 am (90 min return) Departing NewQuay – 1:45 pm, 3pm & 4:15 pm (60 min return) Cost: FREE Bookings: 9683 1565 or www.portofmelbourne.com/community

Celebrate St Patricks Day at with the family at Wonderland Fun Park. See Irish dance demonstrations, face painting, enjoy the blarney green snow cones and Fairy Floss, and ride The Wacky Worm rollercoaster, Crazy Wave, Dragon Flyer, Jurassic adventure, The Magic Train, Walk on Water Balls and Bungee Trampolines too! Wonderland Fun Park is free to enter and all day wristbands are available for purchase at family friendly prices, in case you don’t find that lucky pot of gold!

When: Sunday 17 March - 11am to 5pm Where: Wonderland Fun Park – Pearl River Road, Harbour Town, Docklands Further Info: www.wonderlandfunpark.com.au

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Neighbourhood

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NEIGHBOURHOOD

Docklands Studios Melbourne welcomes a new era in Film & Television Production Docklands Studios Melbourne announced the completion of new building upgrades that will enhance the Studios’ reputation as Victoria’s premier live television facility, offering a flexible, multi-use complex.

The new building works were made possible by a $10 million investment by the Victorian Government.

The completed studio improvements were unveiled by Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business Louise Asher in mid February.

The re-development commenced in early 2012 and included a significant upgrade to Stage 5, renovation of the existing Workshop and an improved security entrance to the Studios on Docklands Drive.

The state-of-the-art extension to Stage 5 includes motorised lighting hoists, a new dry-hire control room and more storage space that will provide clients with faster turn-around times for audience-based production.

The workshop building has been divided into eight discreet bays overlooked by self-contained mezzanine offices.

New fittings on the workshop floor will provide art departments, costume and construction with better equipment and

improved work areas. These changes will also give producers the option to be based at the studio even if they are not shooting on the sound stages.

Chief Executive Officer of Docklands Studios Melbourne, Rod Allan says of the works, “The improvements to Stage 5 now allow us to accept simultaneous television production bookings without compromising the Studios’ ability to host major films when they arise. This will certainly help us attract more television production to Melbourne”.

Docklands Studios Melbourne is a technically advanced complex for local and international film and television production. The Studios are a flagship for the Australian film and television industry.

The site comprises five purpose-built, sound stages, each with its own production offices.

2012 was a most successful year for the Studios and the complex was at full capacity for a number of months.

Last year’s clients included feature films I, Frankenstein and Patrick as well as The Footy Show, Millionaire Hot Seat, Australia’s Got Talent, Winners & Losers and Talkin ‘bout your Generation.

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neighbourhood

Play Ball!

Photography Denis Boboskic

The Dragons are Coming!

Victoria Harbour will host the Melbourne International Dragon Boat Festival on 7 April 2013.

Teams from all over Victoria will converge to compete for the coveted MIDBF trophy which is the state’s highest prize.

The racing will be fast, furious and spectacular to watch as these 2.5 tonne dragon boats fly down the course, each loaded with 20 paddlers, a drummer and a sweep. There is a lot of

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noise, colour and excitement, so be sure to check out the action.

Racing will commence around 9am after the Dotting of the Eyes ceremony - this is an ancient traditional ceremony undertaken by Chinese monks in order to ensure the dragons protect all whom they carry during the day’s racing.

www.facebook.com/ DragonBoatVictoria

Docklands Sports Courts Open The official opening of the Docklands Sports Courts on March 6 is another exciting development for the people residing and working in the Docklands Precinct.

This new outdoor sporting and informal recreational area comprises two multi-purpose, highly durable and flexible sport courts, shaded areas and seating, situated next door to the Docklands Hub at 80 Harbour Esplanade.

The Docklands Community and Place Plan launched last July, identified the need for more outdoor areas and facilities to enable active recreational pursuits as a priority for residents and workers alike.

The Docklands Sports Courts will also be used for a range of twelve week corporate lunchtime

sports competitions run through Active Melbourne City Sports and begin this week with: »» F utsal (soccer) on Tuesdays commencing from 5th March 2013 »» B asketball on Wednesdays commencing from 6th March 2013 »» N etball on Thursdays commencing from 7th March 2013 The Docklands Sports Courts will provide the growing Docklands’ community with a space for people to meet, unwind and be active at.

For information regarding corporate lunchtime sports competitions contact Kiki Tjia at Active Melbourne City Sports on 9604 8600 or visit www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/mcs

Culture

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MOOMBA – AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

Honouring our Moomba Monarchy of Local Heroes

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST COMMUNITY FESTIVAL The Labour Day long weekend has been synonymous with celebrating Moomba for generations.

In 2012 over 1.2 million people attended Moomba - Australia’s largest community festival. With a fabulous line-up of events, this year promises to be even bigger.

In its 59th year, the Moomba program will offer high quality, free entertainment featuring over 80 local acts with more than 110 performances and 50 activities to take part in and enjoy. We have included some of the festival highlights below, so get your highlighter out - you won’t want to miss a thing!

The Moomba Festival runs from 7pm on Friday 8 March until late evening on Monday 11 March.

‘Boom Boom Moomba’:

Friday 8 March 7pm A special free concert worthy of the opening slot of this iconic festival, this year’s opening night event is a Cabaret performance from multiaward winning performers Finucane & Smith. The event promises a wild extravaganza of Circus Sirens, Bollywood Love Gods, Backroom Ballerinas, Sideshow Darlings, Hula Hoop Princesses, Swinging Songs and Disco Queens.

Moomba Music Program: Saturday, Sunday & Monday 11am – late

The 2013 Moomba Music program includes a line-up featuring some of Australia’s hottest emerging and established talent. Key acts on the main stage include Ball Park Music, Bob Evans, Dubmarine, Kasey Chambers and Electric Empire.

Music lovers can also visit the Cultural Quarter and Beats Stage for performances to suit a range of tastes.

Birdman Rally:

Moomba Festival Parade:

A much-loved Moomba tradition, this year’s competition will feature 12 competitors divided into ‘Hawk’ and ‘Penguin ‘categories to see who can glide the furthest in order to raise money for charity. Antics, thrills and spills ensure a hilarious afternoon of viewing.

The theme for this year’s Parade is a celebration of Melbourne’s culture, community and the arts and will feature seven beautifully decorated floats, accompanied by marching bands, street performers, circus performers, dancers and community groups led by the Kings and Queens of Moomba along St Kilda Road.

Sunday 10 March 12 noon

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The true heroes of Melbourne have been honoured, as Lord Mayor Robert Doyle crowned members of our community and emergency service organisations as Moomba Kings and Queens for 2013, in tribute to their extraordinary service to the city.

Monday 11 March 11am

Moomba Masters Waterskiing:

Wednesday 6 - Monday 11 March from 8am – 9.30pm every day Some of the top names in water sports from around the world including world champions and world record holders will gather to compete in a range of categories including the Moomba Masters, Jump, Big Dawg and Wakeboarding. Watch out for some amazing stunts and tricks.

Nicky Bomba & the Calypso Big Band:

Monday 11 March 8.30pm This year’s closing concert is an energetic performance by Nicky Bomba. With his 15 person ensemble of drummers, percussionists and bongo players, he will be treating the audience to an evening of island music, reggae and dancehall.

All performances workshops and programmed activities are free and the full events program can be viewed at: www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Moomba

“The staff and volunteers of these organisations deserve this kind of recognition.

The eight services have nominated these individuals as representatives who exemplify the courage that community and emergency service personnel show in their everyday working lives,” said Cr Doyle.

Introducing the 2013 Moomba Monarchy: Kings: • Alan Eade, MICA Paramedic Ambulance Victoria and Chief Commissioner - St John Ambulance • Scott McGraw, Leading Firefighter Metropolitan Fire Brigade • Major Brendon Nottle, Commanding Officer -Salvation Army

Queens: • April Himmelreich, Volunteer Community Relations Officer - Country Fire Authority • Stephanie Carr, Port Phillip Community Engagement Facilitator for Fire The Land and Fire Management Division of The Department of Sustainability and Environment • Sandy Faoro, Volunteer Unit Controller - State Emergency Service • Acting Sergeant Karla Challis, Family Violence Advisor -Victoria Police Royals on the Portico at Town Hall - (L-R) Brendan, Sandy, Scott, April, Karla, Stephanie and Alan. Photography - Mia Mala McDonald

NEIGHBOURHOOD

LES MISÉRABLES

COMING TO MELBOURNE! Cameron Mackintosh has announced that his acclaimed new production of Boublil & Schönberg’s legendary musical, LES MISÉRABLES, will arrive in Australia in 2014.

With glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery designed by Matt Kinley, inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, this new record breaking production is directed

by Laurence Connor and James Powell and will premiere at Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre in June 2014.

LES MISÉRABLES tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption.

Ex-prisoner Jean Valjean is hunted for decades by the ruthless policeman Javert after he breaks parole. When Valjean agrees to care for factory worker Fantine’s young daughter, Cosette, their lives change forever.

Save the Date! Tickets for the Melbourne season at Her Majesty’s Theatre will go on sale in October 2013

The new production of LES MISÉRABLES has been acclaimed by critics, fans and new audiences for the last three years, breaking box office records internationally and inspiring filmmakers to make the outstandingly successful movie which has gone on to win 3 Golden Globes®, 4 BAFTA’s and receive 8 Academy Award® nominations winning Best supporting actress, best makeup and hair stylings and best sound mixing.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century revolutionary France,

Photography - Michael Le Poer Trench

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2013 L’OrÉal melbourne Fashion festival

2013 L’OrÉal Melbourne Fashion Festival

By Rebecca Howden For lovers of everything fresh, creative and colourful, the second week in March is one of the most invigorating and inspiring on the Australian calendar. The L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival is back for another year, with a vibrant program packed full of runway shows, workshops, exhibitions, seminars and films, providing a unique and engaging space to celebrate creativity and our unique Australian style.

A spirit of community and inclusivity is what makes the L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival such a special experience, festival CEO Graeme Lewsey believes. “It’s a world-class event, but it’s something that everyone can have access to,” he says. “The way I describe it, it’s a fashion, beauty and business event for everyone to enjoy – and that’s something that’s really special. It’s a pretty magical way to enjoy a week in March.”

The traditional hallmark of the festival is the L’Oréal Paris runway series – seven nights of

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spectacular runway shows featuring the latest collections from Australia’s most inspiring and sought-after designers.

Fashion lovers are invited to indulge in the drama and style of a world-class runway experience, with designers such as Ellery, Aurelio Costarella, Lisa Ho, Josh Goot, Alannah Hill, Scanlon and Theodore showcasing their latest designs.

Guests who arrive early can take in the beautiful waterside atmosphere, be pampered in the L’Oréal Paris Powder Room, and enjoy the surrounding bars and restaurants. “It is an incredible hub of activity, and it is without a doubt the most glamorous event in this country,” Lewsey says. “It really plays into the vibrant precinct of the Docklands, and we really encourage everyone to come and make it a big night out.”

This year, glamorous crowds will also be flocking to the waterfront for a new festival event. The Red Carpet Runway is a showcase of the most breathtaking bespoke and couture bridal gowns, with high-end designers such as Colette Dinnigan, Akira, Gwendolynn and Tony Maticevski sending their most striking bridal creations down the runway.

“It’s a pretty exciting show because it’s by no means your traditional bridal exhibition – this is something really benchmark that has never been seen before in Australia,” Lewsey says.

Other festival highlights include the Sportsgirl National Graduate Showcase, which unveils and celebrates the freshest emerging

design talent across Australia.

Beauty workshops from L’Oréal Paris take you behind the scenes with tips, tricks and tutorials on creating runway-ready looks. For those in the business of fashion, the business program offers a unique opportunity for networking and professional development.

And as always, a rich and diverse cultural program of exhibitions, fashion films, workshops and seminars runs over the whole month of March, with a mix of free and ticketed events.

If you see something you love on the runways, Lewsey says sharing it online is all part of the experience. “One of the emerging trends we’re seeing is this concept of collating and curating your look and feel online,” he says. Pinterest, Instagram and other visually based social media are allowing people a unique space for expressing their style and identity, and the festival encourages guests to become a vital part of the fashion community through this idea of social curation.

“People are coming to the festival and taking photos and posting the things they liked, and by doing that they are becoming their own fashion authority,” Lewsey says. “They are curating all their favourite things online, and that is a really fun and dynamic way of

sharing the love and spreading the news about our designers.

That’s all part of the magic and the reach of the festival.”

And of course, Melbourne’s vibrant shopping scene allows you to take your favourite looks from the runways and make them your own.

“It’s not like looking at art on the walls of the galleries – the fact that you can actually go and buy everything you see on the runways is truly unique. It’s creating a great experience that you can take with you.”

At the heart of the festival is a celebration of our unique Australian sense of style. With a blend of European and US influences, Lewsey says Australian fashion brings a fresh and inspiring perspective to global trends, and really invokes a sense of individuality. “Combined with our sense of colour, our lifestyle, our love of the outdoors, that’s something really unique,” he says.

“Particularly in Melbourne, where we have this love of the arts, we have people who mix it up and really explore creativity.

Fashion is all about bending the rules sometimes and thinking outside the box.”

L’Oréal Melbourne Fashion Festival – March 18 -24 at Central Pier www.lmff.com.au

NEIGHBOURHOOD

French Cinema Comes to Melbourne

By Alison Eastaway With 2013 already in full swing, and summer holidays a mere memory; it seems Melburnians are in need of an end-offirst-quarter pick me up. The 24th annual Alliance Française Film Festival, coming to Melbourne this month, offers just that.

Far from the over-salted popcorn and wince-inducing Frozen Cokes of our youth, the festival promises a thoroughly adult experience. The setting for this cultural event is an experience in itself, with Palace Cinemas delivering the regal ambience promised in their name.

Stimulating intellectual discussion in the lobby post-film is de rigueur, and once you’ve tasted French cinema with a side of vin rouge and a slice of fromage, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed a film without them.

Boasting ever-surprising plotlines, effortlessly seductive heroines and an irresistible sense of sophistication à la française, this is one rendezvous you’ll want to keep. The festival aims to reveal the full depth and breadth of French cinema to Australian filmgoers. Beyond the ‘Amelie’ cliché lies a complex yet refreshing cinematic approach that is unburdened with political correctness, unconcerned with tidy endings, and above all, thoroughly and predictably, unpredictable.

The 2013 festival promises to once again delight audiences with its enchanting blend of quirky art house films, wistful romantic

dalliances, and edge-of-your-seat thrillers that push the boundaries on suspense.

Festival veterans will welcome the familiar presence of on-screen stalwarts Patrick Bruel and Jeanne Moreau, whilst audience favourites Audrey Tautou and Sophie Marceau work their signature charm; and comedians-turned-actors Gad Elmaleh and Danny Boon reveal the full extent of their repertoires.

The Alliance Française Film Festival is on from 6-24 March at Palace Cinemas throughout Melbourne. Visit www.affrenchfilmfestival.org for more details.

Attendees at last year’s festival were amongst Australia’s first to experience international box office sensation ‘Les Intouchables’. And as for this year?

Those in the know have their eye on ‘Les Lyonnais’ (A Gang Story). And something tells me they won’t be disappointed.

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Melbourne international comedy festival

2013 Melbourne

International Comedy Festival Hello Kitty Flanagan

By Lisa Quittner Performing at her third Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Kitty Flanagan returns in 2013 with the highly anticipated Hello Kitty Flanagan. 3000Melbourne checked in with Kitty to find out more…

Where did you find the inspiration and material for your new show, ‘Hello Kitty Flanagan’?

This show is probably a bit more personal than my last one, which was a compilation of all my favourite bits taken from years of working comedy clubs.

But now, doing the Project every week, I think I’ve become slightly addicted to spewing my ill informed opinions at people. What makes it addictive is that the reaction has been (mostly) positive,

it’s been heartening to find that lots of people reckon what I reckon! So this new show is a bit of a “here’s what I think, who’s with me?!” I guess it’s like a really piss weak, non violent rally, where I work us all into abate for an hour - then we all calm down and go out and have a wine. So middle class.

This is your third appearance at the MICF, what do you find unique to Melbourne about the festival and Melbourne audiences?

I love the way Melbourne people use their city. Seven days a week, whatever the weather, the people of Melbourne are out and about, participating. That’s why the festival works so well, because Melbourne people get involved, they embrace whatever is being offered up. Spiegeltent, let’s go.

Hedge Maze in festival square, let’s go. Pop up bar on the dirty brown river, let’s go.

That’s why there’s always good stuff on in Melbourne because the city supports it.

The new show broaches some of life’s big questions including what’s wrong with teenagers, why babies are so angry and what snack foods should be avoided when dating, but I note that the topic of sibling rivalry doesn’t appear to be on the agenda, would that have anything to do with your sister Penny making a guest appearance in the show?

Oh there’s no sibling rivalry. I’m the eldest, so quite obviously I’m in charge. Whatever

I say goes. I call her my musical stooge.

And Penny’s quite happy with that. She’s got three kids at home, to be honest, she’s just happy to be out of the house.

I believe in the past you were a former advertising copywriter, for those that haven’t seen one of your shows as yet how would you describe what they have missed out on to date and why they would be nuts to miss seeing you at the 2013 MICF? This is my best show ever. Who wouldn’t want to see me do fully clothed burlesque dancing, who doesn’t want to know why pets are better than teenagers and who doesn’t want to hear a song about religion that rhymes the word “jesus” with “cheeses”. That last one is my proudest comedy achievement.

Lastly, when in Melbourne where are the best places to find material for future stand-up shows?

I’m a dreadful eavesdropper. In cafes, shops, on trams, wherever I am, I suggest you keep your voices down people, I’m always listening.

Hello KITTY Flanagan When: 9 April – 21 April (not Mondays) Where: Athenaeum Theatre - 188 Collins Street, Melbourne Tickets: From $30 - $39 Bookings: Ticketek 132 849 or www.ticketek.com.au

Tegan Higginbotham is “TOUCHED BY FEV” After her highly acclaimed and award nominated 2012 show “Million Dollar Tegan”, Tegan Higginbotham is back for the 2013 Melbourne International Comedy Festival to face a whole new challenge - Brendan Fevola.

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As a young girl growing up in Dandenong, Tegan had two heroes; Harry Potter and AFL star Brendan Fevola. But whereas Harry went on to destroy the evil wizard Voldemort and save the entire world, Brendan just got his junk out. Lots.

Tegan was devastated and swore never to love (another

footballer) again. But as Tegan gets older, and the similarities between herself and her fallen hero become more evident, she has realised that it might be time to give Fev his one last chance.

If not for his sake, then definitely for hers…

Don’t miss Tegan Higginbotham’s hilarious standup comedy and enjoy the ride as she tackles her idol on and off the field in “Touched By Fev”.

When: 27 March – 20 April (no shows Fridays, Sundays or Mondays) Where: Spleen Bar- Upstairs Pool Room Tickets: $21.00 Full, $18 Concession, $15 Tightarse Tuesday Bookings: Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com.au or at www.comedyfestival.com.au

Street Team

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The All-New Volvo V40. It’s You! magmedia.com.au

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The All-New Volvo V40 - Thinks, Feels, Drives Like No Other Car AUSTRALIA’S NUMBER 1 SELLING VOLVO DEALER, MELBOURNE CITY VOLVO UNVEILS THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED V40 Swedish brand Volvo has made a welcome and successful return to the world of fivedoor hatch- backs. The All-New Volvo V40 has been making heads turn across the world and has recently been nominated as European Car of the Year and World Car of the Year 2013. It has firmly placed Volvo as a leader in automotive innovation.

Michael Taylor, is looking forward to meeting you and arranging a test drive.

From the instantly recognisable, cutting edge design to technological innovations, the new addition to the range is set to rival its European competitors – the Audi A3, Sportsback, BMW 1 Series and Volkswagen Golf.

According to Volvo, the ‘V’ in V40 stands for versatile and looking at the wide range of design features it isn’t difficult to see why. Boasting clean, elegant lines the V40 offers exclusive exterior and interior styling. This includes the R-Design front end featuring a glossy black grille and unique LED lights. The optional panoramic glass roof connects the driver with the sky above, making the V40’s spacious and airy cabin an even more comfortable place to be.

On Friday 8th of March, Melbourne City Volvo, Australia’s number one selling Volvo dealer, will unveil the highly anticipated V40 at their Port Melbourne showroom.

Melbourne City Volvo’s General Manager,

The interactive dashboard features three driving set-ups – elegance, eco and performance to suit your driving mood.

Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President of Research and Development at the Volvo

Car Group describes the All-New Volvo V40 as “agile, responsive and fun to drive.

The sharp chassis offers the enthusiastic driver a feeling of total control. You get both that connected response that makes a winding country road so much fun as well as the precise, nimble moves it takes to stay on top of busy urban traffic.”

The refined power of the Volvo V40 is available with fuel-efficient petrol and diesel engines. From the powerful T5 petrol version delivering 187 kW to the ultra-efficient D2 diesel which emits just 94g CO2/ km, there’s an engine designed for your needs.

Volvo continues to ensure your time behind the wheel will be as safe as it is enjoyable with its innovations. Not only has the Volvo V40 been awarded the maximum

five-star safety rating by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), it is also the first car in the world to have a pedestrian airbag. The system is active between 20km/h and 50km/h and uses seven sensors in the bumper to detect if a pedestrian has been struck.

Furthermore, it sports an ingenious Park Assist Pilot and a lane keeping aid with driver-only haptic feedback – which subtly vibrates the steering wheel should you accidentally stray over the white line. The All-New Volvo V40. It’s You! Visit Melbourne City’s home of the Volvo V40 to arrange a test drive today 351 Ingles Street (cnr Turner St), Port Melbourne - Ph 9684 1070 www.melbournecityvolvo.com.au

Property/ Business / Finance 17 MARCH 2013

Culture

MaGnam Linea Sirens & Heroes An Exhibition by Katie Young & Zsandor Burai Dome Gallery will exhibit the recent works of Melbourne artists Katie Young and Zsandor Burai this March in a stunning exhibition of artworks by the pair exploring mostly the female form infused with symbology and nature inspired imagery.

Magnam Linea explores the coexistence between pleasure and pain, intimacy and loneliness, self and God, light and dark, good and evil, life and death. The masculine meets the feminine to infuse all of the elements, exposing the fine line and creating a beautiful agony.

Katie Young was born in Melbourne, Australia in 1985. She works predominantly in oils and watercolour.

Her work is almost always a collection of portraiture or figurative work exploring the notion of sexuality, identity, and spirituality.

“I paint, I draw, I write, and I photograph the world around me. I am inspired by the beautiful, the ugly,

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the evanescent. I am forever striving to emulate the wonder and fragility which the subject emits. Exploring the intangible and indescribable, to try and pin down the mystery of nature and of oneself...always slightly out of reach.”

Zsandor’s paintings explore the relationship of self and identity between the existential and the spiritual realms. Investigating their relevance by means of variable echoes, defining the line between reality and the dream world, and the self being perceived through the eyes of others. His subjects often at first glance appear confident and alluring with his use of bold line, but on closer inspection these characters are vulnerable in intricate detail and keeping close guard of the fragility that lurks within.

When: 14-27 March (Opening Night 14 March 6-9pm) Where: Dome Gallery at Mission to Seafarers – 717 Flinders St, Docklands.

Further Info: 9629 7083

Artworks by Katie Young

By Tom Elliott Recent polls suggest that both Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott are liked a lot less than former respective party leaders Kevin Rudd and Malcolm Turnbull. Despite this, Abbott and Gillard are still the most likely opponents at the upcoming federal election. This somewhat surprising state of affairs owes much to French philosopher Joseph de Maistre who wrote in 1811 that “Every nation gets the government it deserves”.

Leaving aside any commentary on just how badly we collectively must’ve behaved to endure the current parliamentary mess, just why do we deserve two party leaders the bulk of us don’t really like?

Turning first to former PM Kevin Rudd,

whilst he was popular with voters, two main factors united to bring him down.

First, to his parliamentary colleagues he appeared something of a control freak.

Rather than developing a collegiate style of government, he preferred to rule by decree. Such a style can work with popularly elected president, but is generally frowned upon here.

Second, in 2010 Rudd introduced (without, unsurprisingly, any consultation) a massive new tax on the mining industry.

Because of their industry’s concentration, the big resource companies were able to unite and produce an ad campaign that successfully attacked the government’s competence. Rudd’s tenure as PM was limited from that point on.

For similar reasons, Malcolm Turnbull failed to impress his own colleagues during his 14 month period as Liberal leader in 2008-09. Like Rudd, he endured

a political stuff up when he believed bureaucrat Godwin Grech’s false claim that Treasurer Wayne Swan attempted to prop up a political donor using public funds – the so-called ‘OzCar’ affair.

Also like Rudd, Turnbull preferred a more presidential style of leadership. This stemmed from Turnbull’s acknowledged superior intellect; after all he was a former Rhodes Scholar who prior to entering politics had succeeded in fields diverse as journalism, law and business. To his own parliamentary colleagues, the sense that their opinions weren’t sought as often as they might contributed to Turnbull losing the late 2009 Liberal leadership to Tony Abbott (coincidentally, also a Rhodes Scholar – albeit of the more sport focused variety).

So in both Gillard and Abbott we now have leaders who while they’re not loved by voters, do possess a much stronger

Property/ Business / Finance

Getting The Politicians We deserve

sense of party leadership than their respective predecessors. Gillard ‘fixed’ Rudd’s mining tax (to the point where it’s now widely viewed as completely ineffectual) and has remained adept at playing the factional games that so dominate Labor’s internal proceedings.

And by adopting a deliberately vague policy stance, Abbott remains capable of appearing all things to all people in an Opposition consisting of widely diverse characters such as the protectionist Barnaby Joyce and the free market oriented Joe Hockey.

May the least worst team win on September 14...

Tom Elliott is Director of both MM&E Capital Pty Ltd, a Melbourne based hedge fund, and Beulah Capital Pty Ltd, a private wealth manager.

Beulah Capital Ph: 9270 9180 www.beulahcapital.com Tune in and listen to Tom between 3-6pm weekdays on 3AW’s Drive

MARCH 2013

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Property/ Business / Finance

$190 million

office development approved for Queen St.

By Simon Curtain Our superannuation system is recognised as one of the best in the World.

The backbone of our world-class superannuation system involves the workforce directing a portion of their salary towards superannuation today, so that they have an asset base in the future from which to draw an income.

As an incentive to forego salary, the Government provides the superannuation system with a number of tax concessions.

A key concession is that any income earned within your superannuation fund is taxed at 15% as opposed to your marginal tax rate which could be as high as 46.5%. It gets even better when you start a pension with your superannuation account because in this case the tax on earnings reduces to nil!

This concession provides a huge incentive to contribute to superannuation because you can save a significant amount of tax by accumulating funds within your superannuation account as opposed to your personal name.

While our politicians continue to assure us that the superannuation system is a key component in funding the future of Australian families you can’t help but think what made the system so good is slowing being eroded.

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In 2007 the Government overhauled the superannuation system, calling it “Better Super”. One of the key changes under Better Super was to place a limit on the amount of contributions you could make to super each year.

In 2010 another round of reforms were announced under the title “Stronger

Super”. Stronger Super has seen the level of allowable contributions drop further, so that now you can only contribute $25,000 to superannuation from your salary each year.

While we have had some changes in the right direction, like the raising of the superannuation guarantee from 9 per cent to 12 per cent, it seems there could be more changes on the way which will negatively impact our world-class system.

Documents leaked to the media recently show that the Government was considering trying to claw back some of the income they would otherwise lose, by taxing withdrawals for those with balances over $1million. While that sounds like a lot of money, commentators have pointed out that it provides as little as $39,000 annually – hardly a life of luxury. Prime Minister Gillard has now assured us that measure is off the table, but it shows that super is under the Budget microscope, and this could only be the beginning.

I have to ask, why are our leaders slowly reducing the effectiveness of superannuation when they should in fact be doing the exact opposite? With an ageing population we should be doing all we can to incentivise workers to save for their own retirement today.

Why can’t they just leave superannuation alone?

Simon Curtain is a Private Client Adviser at Hewison Private Wealth Level 4, 102 Albert Road, South Melbourne Ph: 9682 1900 www.hewison.com.au

Planning Minister Matthew Guy has approved a $190 million office building at 272 Queen Street, reinforcing Melbourne’s role as a principal centre for commerce and a world-class city.

The development includes a contemporary designed office building of 50 storeys (205 meters), including an 11-storey podium with a mix of ground floor retail opportunities.

“This prominent corner of our central business district will be transformed into a majestic location for a range of businesses, with employment opportunities for up to 2,000 people.

The redevelopment site is located in an evolving area where planning policy encourages development that supports a vibrant and economically competitive central city while making efficient use of existing infrastructure” said Mr. Guy It is estimated that inner Melbourne, including the central business district, will need to accommodate an extra 30,000 people by 2026.

“We know what the statistics are telling us. Melbourne’s future is about growth and change so this proposal responds to future needs while being a catalyst for a range of other opportunities,” Mr. Guy said. “With the development of a new Metropolitan Planning Strategy underway we also need to respond to our city’s future needs with appropriate planning and development decisions.”

The developer for 272 Queen Street is Dale Rose Pty Ltd. It is expected that 580 direct jobs and 3,000 indirect jobs will be created during the construction phase.

Summer fun feature 21 DEC/JAN 2013

Property/ Business / Finance

Focus on savings at the

south wharf grand opening!

JOIN IN THE FOCUS ON FURNITURE - SOUTH WHARF STORE GRAND OPENING CELEBRATIONS This Labour Day long weekend, there’s a lot to celebrate as Focus On Furniture officially opens their 16th store and their largest at South Wharf DFO and you are invited to join in a host of special events, 1000’s of dollars of giveaways, entertainment and free fun for the whole family.

Come down and meet Focus on Furniture brand ambassador and AFL football legend, Shane Crawford as he autographs mini footy’s, hosts activities and games coordinated by the The Fox FM Austereo Street Team. While you’re there, you might also be lucky enough to be selected to check out what’s down the back of Crawf’s couch where you could win vouchers, special offers and prizes...who knows what else you might find!

Enjoy the BBQ, pick up some great great giveaways and take advantage of storewide discounts to celebrate the Focus on Furniture Grand Opening at South Wharf where you’ll find a range of the latest contemporary designs exclusive to the South Wharf store.

Focus on Furniture is an Australian owned company dedicated to selling premium quality furniture sourced both locally and from around the world. Every effort

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is made to offer their customers the most extensive range of styles and choices available that are always competitively priced.

700 Bourke Street nears completion

Whether you are looking at decorating one room or an entire home, their friendly and professional sales consultants offer you free furnishing advice to help you select the items that best fit your lifestyle, taste and budget.

Focus on Furniture stock a wide range of lounges, dining and bedroom suites, as well as mattresses, prints and accessories – you will find what you’ve been looking for and always at an equally attractive price.

Focus on Furniture is committed to providing furniture that exudes style, quality, functionality and affordability.

Setting a standard of excellence in customer service, trend analysis and product knowledge has enabled Focus on Furniture’s success to now incorporate 16 stores across Victoria, Canberra and southern New South Wales.

Come down to Focus on Furniture at South Wharf DFO for their opening celebrations and see for yourself why this company is fast attracting a reputation for being simply, the best!

GRAND OPENING AT SOUTH WHARF DFO – SATURDAY 9TH OF MARCH CELEBRATIONS BEGIN FROM 10AM

Artists’ Impression Cbus Property’s latest commercial and retail development at 700 Bourke Street in Melbourne’s Docklands is nearing completion.

Located at the corner of Bourke Street and Wurundjeri Way, the 63,000 square metre site has been developed into an architecturally significant 14 storey building positioned at Docklands near Southern Cross Station.

The new building will be central to National Australia Bank’s Bourke Street precinct. Adrian Pozzo, Cbus Property CEO, said Cbus Property is proud to have NAB as the anchor tenant at 700 Bourke Street.

“700 Bourke St was designed in collaboration with NAB to provide a state-of-the-art workplace, as well as being a place that employees will be excited to come to every day,” said Mr Pozzo. “The construction of the building has also created in excess of 3,500 new jobs, which is great for Victoria’s building industry,” he added.

700 Bourke has been designed to include large triangular shaped office floor plates with a central atrium connecting all levels, a child care centre, auditorium,

retail tenancies, outdoor terrace and a two-level podium car park.

An A-grade building with Premiumgrade services, environmentally sustainable features include an energy efficient façade, tri-generation facility, a percentage of ‘small car’ car parks and a black water treatment plant. The building is distinguished by large vertical ‘fissures’ which will provide vertical articulation, breaking up the scale of the building. The glass will also incorporate a patterning which will contribute to reducing the heat load on the building and its energy use.

NAB’s Head of Commercial Property, Ms Monica Klyscz said 700 Bourke was planned with a sustainable and changing future in mind.

“The new building developed by Cbus Property will be the centrepiece of NAB’s Bourke Street Precinct. Part of a strategic plan, we will be bringing around 14,000 employees from over six buildings across the Melbourne CBD to a central location, with a strong presence in Docklands,” she said.

Completion of 700 Bourke Street is expected in June 2013.

Property/ Business/ Finance 23 MARCH 2013

school holiday feature

MYSTIQUE ILLUSION SPECTACULAR Come along to Wonderland Fun Park these School Holidays and see Mystique Illusion Spectacular!

Be spellbound by Illusionist Michael Boyd, his cast of beautiful dancers and Thurston the Duck appearing and disappearing daily.

An entertainment extravaganza unlike any other with world class illusions and acts of wonder plus hilarious antics the whole family will love. Featuring amazing illusions and mind-blowing magic such as Levitations, Transportations and direct from Las Vegas, the Doom Chamber it is a show not to be missed!

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Children under 3 do not require a show or ride ticket, however, they must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ride ticket for rides and/ or a valid show ticket for the show.

Wonderland Fun Park is open on Good Friday and is running a special event, the Good Friday Appeal Family Day - part proceeds from the day will be donated to The Good Friday Appeal.

When: Friday 29 March to Sun 14 April 3 SHOWS DAILY 11.30AM 1.30PM AND 3.30PM Where: Wonderland Fun Park – Harbour town Shopping Centre, Docklands

Ticket Options: Show only $10 online, $15 on the day Show & Super Unlimited Rides Pass: $35 (conditions apply) Bookings online www.wonderlandfunpark.com.au or phone 9602 1311

school holiday feature

See Melbourne Aquarium’s new Seahorse Nursery tour this coming school holidays Males that give birth, magical underwater courtship dances and tiny seahorse fry are just some of the weird and wonderful things visitors will discover at Melbourne Aquarium’s latest experience, Seahorse Nursery.

Everyday throughout the school holidays, visitors will have the exclusive opportunity to tour behind-the-scenes of Melbourne Aquarium’s all-new Seahorse Pier exhibit, home to the internationally-recognised Weedy Seadragon breeding program and dedicated Seahorse breeding facility.

Journey through the paternity ward where hundreds of tiny baby seahorses and seadragons are on display—don’t miss your chance to learn all there is to know about secret underwater world of these enchanting creatures and even help feed our precious babies with live shrimp!

Seahorse Pier is home to more than 100 members of the Syngnathid family, including seadragons, pipefish, razorfish and Victoria’s marine emblem, the beautiful Weedy seadragon.

From the all-new Seahorse Nursery tour and Seahorse Discovery Zone, to

ILY FAM OF 5 ONE SSES TO A P

the daily interactive presentations, animal feeds and heaps of exciting seahorse art & craft activities, Don’t miss your chance to Melbourne Aquarium feed the baby seahorses! has something for the whole family to enjoy Where: throughout the Easter School Holidays.

Melbourne Aquarium, When: 7 days a week Throughout Cnr King and Flinders Streets the Easter School Holidays Cost: Times: Adults: $15; Child: $10 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm and Bookings essential 2:30pm (School holidays only) Further Info: melbourneaquarium.com.au

MARCH 2013

25

school holiday feature

Black Light Mini Golf Whether you are 5 or 105, indoor Black Light Mini-Golf is the way to go for extraordinary fun this school holidays.

At Black Light Mini-Golf you’ll put your way around an 18 hole glow in the dark course navigating around Australia’s most famous icons, but if you are looking for something a little more exhilarating and almost death-defying, try out their 4D Coffin Ride complete with sounds, smells and motion.

A fantastic venue for both young children and teens and easily located at Harbour Town with all day parking just $6 conveniently located nearby.

Bookings are recommended during school holidays.

Where: Level 1, Shop 35, Star Crescent, Harbour Town Shopping Centre, Docklands.

Phone: 9642 5442 Further Info: glowgolf.com.au

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Visit the Zoopermarket From April check out the Zoo’s checkout with a difference in Orang-utan Sanctuary – the Zoopermarket!

It’s their fun, new interactive installation which highlights the plight of wild orang-utans and the primary cause for their decline – the clearance of rainforests in South-east Asia for unsustainable oil palm plantations.

Palm oil is an ingredient found in many of our favourite household products, including spreads, breads, biscuits, shampoo and shaving cream. The unsustainable production of palm oil is the single biggest threat to the survival of wild Sumatran Orang-utans.

Luckily, there is something every Zoo visitor can do to help fight extinction and save wild orangutans – head to the Zoopermarket, scan your favourite products and discover which ones contain unsustainable palm oil, and which contain orang-utan-friendly Certified Sustainable Palm Oil (CSPO). Visitors can then send an email to manufacturers, either congratulating them on their use of CSPO, or asking them to make the switch to the sustainable option.

To say thank you for helping Melbourne Zoo save orangutans, during autumn every visitor will receive an Oranguscan card! Scan your card at the Zoopermarket to discover if you’ve won a fantastic prize!

Where: Melbourne Zoo – Elliott Ave, Parkville Cost: Adult Everyday $26.10 - Child (0-3 yrs) Everyday FREE - Child (4-15 yrs) Sat, Sun public/ school hols FREE - Child (4-15 yrs) Mon – Fri outside holidays $12.90 Further Info: Call 9285 9402 or visit www.zoo.org.au

OZ The Great and Powerful in 3D How long have we been waiting for this?!

Oz The Great and Powerful imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum’s beloved wizard character.

When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot.

Fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda

(Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting.

Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late.

Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity—and even a bit of wizardry—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great and powerful wizard but into a better man as well.

In addition, Oz The Great and Powerful 3D moviegoers will also be treated to the first nine minutes of the highly anticipated Star Trek sequel, Star Trek Into Darkness, playing prior to screenings for the first two weeks.

Release Date: 7 March 2013 Where: IMAX Melbourne Museum, Carlton Gardens Tickets: $26.50 adult, $22.50 concession, $19.00 child, $78 family (2 adults & 2 children) Bookings: at the box office or www.imaxmelbourne.com.au

school holiday feature

Image Courtesy of Disney

School Holiday Cooking Classes At QUEEN VIC MARKET Kick-start a lifetime love of cooking and keep the kids entertained these school holidays by enrolling them in one of the Queen Victoria Market’s special cooking classes.

Classes range for ages from 6-to 16 years of age, while teens will learn how to make Chinese and Japanese favourites with Julie Thai, and younger children will master Italian and Spanish cuisine under the guidance and supervision of Antonio Cantania.

Visit the Queen Victoria market website for class times and details.

When: School Holidays Where: QVM – Corner Victoria & Elizabeth Streets, Melbourne Bookings and program details: qvm.com.au

MARCH 2013

27

3000 WELLBEING

THE 3 CRITICAL COMPONENTS FOR STRESS BUSTING In times of high stress, one-minute goals are the answer.

One minute is a long time!

• Breathe for one minute.

• Stretch for one minute.

• Draw a picture for one minute.

By Shannah Kennedy – Executive Life Strategist STRESS I see people all around me who look stressed. It is only March and they looked tired. They lack structure to deal with the busy day to day life, the simple small structures that can be built to protect us and nurture us through this fast paced world.

Stress is your body’s way of responding to any kind of demand. When you feel stressed, your body reacts by releasing chemicals into the blood, which give you more energy and strength. This is a good thing if your stress is caused by clear physical danger, but if it’s in response to an emotional stressor, you have no outlet for the extra energy and strength, which is when it can adversely affect both your body and your mind. magmedia.com.au

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People under large amounts of stress can become tired, sick and unable to concentrate or think clearly. Sometimes, they even suffer mental and physical breakdowns.

• Drink water for one minute.

• Walk for one minute.

• Close your eyes and count for one minute.

• Gain some perspective for one minute.

CHOICE Remember we all have choices, we can choose to be busy and see it as busy, or we can choose stress. One of my favourite morning affirmations is from Louise Hay as below:

“If you choose resentment you - will get more resentment, If you want joy you need to think joyful thoughts, If you want prosperity you need to open yourself up mentally, If you want to flow creatively then you need to open up and believe you are and the universe will allow.”

HOBBIES Another way of dealing with stress is to develop and see the great importance of hobbies.

Hobbies need to be developed now – if not sooner!

It’s vital to foster growth and development in this area. If you develop your hobbies each year, even by only a little bit, then when you have spare time you’ll be passionate about and skilled at your hobbies.

When people reach their 60s and 70s, many find it hard to start a new hobby. They’ve worked hard, raised their family and now they have a little more time on their hands – but often it’s too late! To start learning how to cook or studying photography at the age of 65 can be daunting, overwhelming and far too hard.

When you look at those who are older than you who are so-called ‘retired’, the inspiring ones have many passions and interests and bring great knowledge and conversation to the table. They have more than ‘work’ as an interest and they worked on their hobbies early.

ME I spend a great deal of time planning and preparing to avoid stress at all costs. I have a family to manage, I have a business to run, I have my health and wellbeing, both physical and mental to look after and I have friends, family and hobbies to enjoy.

To manage all of this without stress,

you need to keep things simple and take the time to organise yourself.

I am incredibly busy, but do not feel stress, the key – I take the responsibility to make it my choice.

Simplify Structure Succeed, The practical toolkit for modern life.

A MUST for every person wishing to live optimally both personally and professionally – your complete guide.

Available at www.shannahkennedy.com

3000 WELLBEING 29 MARCH 2013

3000 WELLBEING

A Holistically Nourishing Life

By Dana Atkin - Professional Kinesiology Practitioner

I hear so many people saying that they’re on a diet, particularly in the New Year or in the lead up to summer, but it’s very seldom that I hear someone say that they are watching their nutritional intake. Given how liberally the word ‘diet’ is thrown around these days, it’s no surprise that many people don’t know what a diet actually is and confuse it for a temporary healthy eating regime to help you fit into your little black dress or that great new shirt.

Put simply, a ‘diet’ is all of the foods and beverages you choose to put into your body every single day. It doesn’t matter if you eat a donut or an apple - if you put it into your body it is part of your dietary intake and it has a direct effect on your nutrition.

So what is a holistic diet? There are a few different approaches to a

intake as part of it’s built in survival mechanism. That means your body’s systems may not be getting what they need in order to do their job well.

holistic diet out there. I believe that a true holistic diet looks at the whole person and encompasses all areas of your life, not just your food plate or exercise. It is all about ensuring that each area of your life is nutritious and fulfilling for you.

That is, your physical body nutrition requirements are met, your spiritual hunger is fulfilled and your mind and emotions are as healthy as possible.

Similarly, if you were to neglect your mind and fill it with loads of negative substance, your body and mind are likely to not work as well as they could.

All substance has an effect on your body. What you tell yourself, what you say and what you see around you has the ability to feed you both consciously and subconsciously. That said here are some simple things you can do to start integrating a holistic diet into your life.

What you get from your dietary intake is nutrition. Nutrition in terms of physical body nutrition is classified as good quality vitamins, minerals, enzymes and water that your body can derive from the food you eat and use to keep your body functioning at an optimal level. Without the appropriate levels of these good things, your body may begin to ration out your nutritional

1. U se positive language. You’ll subconsciously start to change the way you look and feel about the things in your life and the people around you.

2. T urn off the News. The news very rarely reports all the happy and positive things in the world so listening to it, watching it, reading it is not going to have a positive

effect on your mind or emotions.

Also be aware that if you eat while watching the news, you may be subconsciously digesting the negative news, energy and emotions into your physical body.

3. S urround yourself with positive, high energy people who make you feel good. This will reinforce your happy intake.

4. D o things you love to do. Doing things you love to do has the ability to instantly lift our spirits.

Giving your body substance that will help it to sustain life, health, happiness and vitality is something that can be encompassed within all areas of your life. A holistically nourishing life and can have an amazing effect on not just your body but your mind and emotions too.

Dana Atkin is a Professional Kinesiology Practitioner located in Melbourne city. To ask Dana a question or to make an appointment contact: Melbourne Natural Wellness (03) 9662 1311 dana@mnwc.com.au

Let’s stop the bullying!

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By Tahlia Mandie – Psychotherapist & Family Counsellor

knows this too. She knew it every time she had a sneaky cigarette.

Chrissie Swan confessed in the media last month that she is “pregnant and I smoke”. This confession came after being snapped by a photographer who took that fateful photo of her having a sneaky cigarette. What came next was outrage, and a backlash of ‘bad parent’, ‘selfish’ and ‘how could she’ from the public.

But what many people have failed to recognise is the heartfelt plea of exhaustion, shame, try and fighting each day to the next that so many mothers feel. We have shamed her for this one crime, and failed her in so many more ways. Motherhood is a tough gig, one of the toughest out there. As so many mothers know, sometimes it is a struggle to get through the day of parenting, cleaning, toddler tantrums, cooking, all while trying to have a moment to go to the toilet in peace and

We all know smoking is not a good thing, even more so when one is pregnant. The ramifications can be deadly – that’s a given, and Chrissie

dealing with the exhaustion of the day.

It is not easy. I am sick of people judging other people without anything but a glimpse into their life. Shouldn’t we be helping others; questioning how we can help them through their pain and struggles? Shouldn’t we be wondering what has happened for someone to decide that that is the only option?

When people commit such ‘crimes’ they need support, love and compassion, not bully behaviour, ridicule, name-calling and shame.

Believe me, the shame is already there internally for that individual.

Tahlia is a psychotherapist and family counsellor, writer and blogger helping individuals, couples and families navigate through life’s challenges and move forward. See more of Tahlia’s work at www.directionexploring.com.au or www.theparentingfiles.com.au

I don’t know how to make the bullying stop. I want to know.

Increase Your Longevity

3000’s kitchen

By Nadine Fawell – Yoga Instructor We all know that keeping our hearts healthy helps us live longer, healthier lives - but what about musculo-skeletal fitness? Being strong, supple, and balanced makes things like sitting down on the floor and then getting back up easy.

A recent study by the European Society of Cardiology assessed peoples’ ability to sit and then rise unaided from the floor. They found evidence to suggest that those who could, had a decreased risk of mortality from all causes.

They assessed 2002 adults of both sexes, with ages ranging from 51 to 80 years, who were followed-up from the date of the baseline test until the date of death or 31 October 2011, a median follow-up of 6.3 years.

According to the study paper: ‘Over the study period 159 subjects died, a mortality rate of 7.9%. The majority of these deaths occurred in people with low test scores – indeed, only two of the deaths were in subjects who gained a composite score of 10. Analysis found that survival in each of the four categories differed with high statistical significance. These differences persisted when results were controlled for age, gender and body mass index, suggesting that the sitting-rising test score is a significant predictor of all-cause mortality; indeed, subjects in the lower score range had a 5-6 times higher risk of death than those in the reference group.

Yemista

3000’s Kitchen

Sit Down & Stand Up –

Created by Chef Tania Campbell - Gypsy Hideout Entree - Serves 3

To Make:

Yemista Mix:

Make your Yemista mix and put aside. Using Truss tomatoes, with a pair of scissors, cut the stem of the tomato just above the leaves. Slice the top of the tomato but only cut the lid ¾ of the way through. Carefully spoon out the inside, DO NOT break the lid from the base, and DO NOT break the skin, put pulp and juice aside.

2 cups of small grain rice 2 large onions finely diced 10 large mint leaves finely sliced 1/2 bunch of parsley 1 bunch of dill 1 small bunch of spring onions finely sliced 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped 1 zucchini peeled and grated Pulp of tomatoes to be stuffed finely chopped 1 leek finely sliced

Yemista Marinade: Juice from pulp strained ½ tsp of cinnamon 2 tbsp raw sugar 2 tbsp pepper 1½ tbsp salt 20ml Olive oil

Lay the tomatoes in a baking tray. Add a tiny pinch of sugar into the base of each tomato.

Fill each tomato with your Yemista mix, but only 2/3 full as the rice will expand.

Peel and quarter large washed potatoes and place in-between the Yemista. This will help keep the shape as well as act your indicator as to when the Yemista is cooked. Make your Yemista Marinade, and gently pour over the Yemista.

Place uncovered in the oven at 180˚C, and cook. Once the potatoes are cooked through, your Yemista is ready.

This and recipe is included in ‘Flavours of Urban Melbourne’ a beautifully designed coffee table book that takes readers on a culinary journey throughout Melbourne’s notable eateries.

It is well known that aerobic fitness is strongly related to survival, but our study also shows that maintaining high levels of body flexibility, muscle strength, power-to-body weight ratio and co-ordination are not only good for performing daily activities but have a favourable influence on life expectancy.’

Try it now: can you sit down on the floor then stand up again? If not, you might need to start practicing squats and doing hip stretches to start getting there.

Gardening helps loads. So does yoga. Even just a few minutes a day of stretching makes a huge difference.

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‘Flavours of Urban Melbourne’

Contact Nadine on: 0404 025 041 yogainmelbourne.com | hello@yogainmelbourne.com

RRP: $70 available at good book stores & through Smudge Publishing www.smudgepub.com.au

MARCH 2013

31

3000 WELLBEING

In Conversation with Braxton Miles The funeral

By Jane M Hutchinson & Nandita Chakraborty

magmedia.com.au

32

Striding off from the car, Braxton tried to quickly orientate himself by attempting to recognise faces that were scattered amongst the intrusive flashes and clicking sounds of the media’s cameras.

Under his breath Braxton muttered, “These people have no mercy, it’s a bloody funeral, my brother’s funeral.”

“I know! Oh, is that your mum?

Come on through here.” Richard led Braxton through the media scrum.

“Mum, Dad!” he called.

“Oh Braxton you’re here! I need to let the celebrant know you’re here. All this media, can you believe it on a day like today?”

“Celebrant!” Braxton said with a slither of sarcasm.

“Yes, yes you know you’re brother wasn’t religious and well I know he would be annoyed with us if we had a priest presiding over his body.”

“He’d be annoyed either way and he’ll be annoyed that it’s him in that box and not someone else” “Oh Braxton, don’t speak like that.”

“Anyway, why are we having it in a church then?”

“It’s what your father wanted; I really don’t need this now. Come on and don’t make a scene, it was difficult enough getting this church and having a celebrant. Are you are prepared to give the eulogy? Everyone is expecting you to speak.” She pauses only for a minute to come up for air. Warmly smiling at her son, “Oh Braxton, you will give your brother a fitting farewell won’t you? This is about us as a family.”

“Of course I will mum, come on let’s go

inside.” Taking his mother by his arm, “Oh Mum, Dad, this is Richard, Richard Saunders, he’s writing the book on me.”

“Hello Richard, pleased to meet you.”

The heavy sounds of the organ filled the vast spaces of the church. The pews were packed shoulder to shoulder with people. Who were all these people? His brother never talked about all these people, Braxton thought to himself. He dipped his sunglasses enough to be able to make out some of the faces, acknowledging them as he walked up the aisle with his mother. “Braxton I can smell booze on you? His mother whispered as she gracefully took her place.

The family was divided on either side of the church. Braxton smirked, thinking to himself, good to see the family rivalry is still alive and they know their place in life.

There was the family that had travelled down from the Gold Coast. Them being here had nothing to do with his brother; they just wanted to reaffirm their loose association and create some substance for their mundane lives. God! Look at them.

“Oh here we go Richard, take note, here comes one of my uncles. Check out the moustache, complete with side burns, he looks like a friggin’ 1970s porn star.”

“Uncle Barry, how are you, thanks for coming,” said Braxton in his diplomatic voice.

“Now Braxton, I know we haven’t had a chance to catch up but me and me/my boys well, we wanna say a few words.

See, we went to a funeral the other week yeah, right, oh mate it was a bad one but anyway the family all got up and put things, stuff on the coffin. Oh mate, mate it was nice, real nice so I reckon we do the same. You know we’ll put stuff

that reminds us of the time we all spent together. See look here, I bought a copy of the menu from the Chinese restaurant.

You know that one, we all went to. Oh mate they were good times. Here I got the menu laminated so it won’t fade or anything …See… Oh! What’s happening afterwards, you know the body…?

“What, what are you talking about?”

Braxton said in disbelief.

“Well you know is he going to be well, cooked or … oh now that could be a problem.

“What? What, a Chinese menu on my brother’s coffin, cremating my brother with a menu, are you serious?”

“That’s the one and I’ve also got one of my boys to get some coasters from the pub we all went too as well, nice touch, hey?”

Braxton had been in difficult situations before and knew how to be diplomatic but this was testing him. “Oh look Barry, with all due respect, I’m not having beer coasters and menus placed on my brother’s coffin.” Braxton was fuming with anger and astonishment. He decided this conversation was finished and walked off towards the coffin.

His mother and Richard were watching on and knew that something was going on.

They both knew Braxton well enough to know that anything could happen with him.

Braxton tried to take control of the anger that was bubbling within. Breathing slowly and deeply, Braxton caught out of the corner of his eye his uncle walking towards the coffin. Braxton’s patience had all but gone. What the hell does he think he’s doing?

Oblivious to Braxton’s state, his uncle walked up and slowly dipped his hands inside the coffin. Without even

thinking, Braxton lunged back with fists clenched, swung with all his might and punched his uncle square in the face.

There was an almighty crush.

Suddenly, in front of a packed church and the media, the entire coffin went tumbling down with his uncle.

The whole church went silent. The sound of the organ was gone and so were the whispers. A heavy silence fell across the church.

“Ahhh Braxton!” his mother shrieked out.

Richard, along with the other mourners, couldn’t believe what they just saw; everyone was too shocked to move or say anything.

The silence was broken with the sounds of his uncle kicking and screaming as he regained consciousness. “Help!

Someone help me! I can’t breathe.

I’ve got a dead man on me.”

Braxton stood frozen with eyes locked on the fallen coffin. Then there it was, a sound that Braxton was all too familiar with. The sound of a media frenzy with cameras clicking and the thirsty murmuring of the press. The media had got it all. The whole thing was caught on camera. This was yet another PR disaster for Braxton and the family. What the hell had he done?

Amongst the sea of mourners a little blonde girl, her hair plaited with a neat black dress and shiny black shoes, stood up and roared in laughter. “Hahaahaa!

Haahaa! The fat man broke the coffin.”

Be sure to read on in April for the next instalment of ‘In Conversation with Braxton Miles’.

All preceding chapters can be found on our MagMedia website www.magmedia.com.au within our past issues.

Docklands Writers meet on the last Tuesday of every month from 5.30-7.30pm at the Docklands Hub. Writers from all genres and levels of experience are welcomed.

For more information please email: Jane.X.Hutchinson@gmail.com

part of a week-long program of events, festivals and celebrations of reading.

In 2013 the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards will recognise 30 great Australian works, across the fiction, non-fiction, poetry, Australian history, young adult fiction and children’s fiction categories.

In February, Arts Minister Simon Crean announced that due to the unprecedented success of 2012’s National Year of Reading; the year’s much loved brand, Love2Read, will continue into 2013.

“In 2012 more than 4,000 events were attended by more than 200,000 people in celebration of reading,” Mr Crean said.

The Australian Government supported the National Year of Reading by providing $1.4 million for the year-long campaign.

Love2Read’s now iconic flower logo, became a common sight in libraries, bookstores, schools around Australia, and online will continue to promote reading in 2013. “Wherever you see the logo, you will find something and somewhere great to read, and people who share your love of reading – be it at a library, bookshop, school or community space. Open and inclusive spaces such as bookshops or community spaces are important for those Australians who want to read and develop their literacy skills in an informal environment” said Mr Crean.

This year The Reading Hour will take place on Saturday 24 August which is

“I encourage all of Australia’s readers to keep an eye out for both the shortlists and winners announcements later this year – these books will be a great addition to your 2013 reading list,” added Mr Crean.

Love2Read in 2013 will also feature: • National early literacy campaign – Love2Read in partnership with Let’s Read and United Way will run a national early literacy media campaign between March and July 2013.

• Cowzat! interactive children’s e-book launch – aimed at three to 10 years old children. This e-book is a collaboration between Colour Me Interactive, Windy Hollows Books and Cricket Australia.

For more information on Love2Read in 2013 visit: www.love2read.org.au For more information on the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards visit www.arts.gov.au/pmla

3000’S BOOKSHELF

WE LOVE2READ

3000’s

playing in a barn stacked with hay, to Ruth sneaking chocolate caramels into church. Ruth’s thoughts are peppered with Biblical references and meditations on the teachings of Jesus; the scripture pervades every aspect of life. Amid this small town isolation and religious sheltering, Ruth and Naomi’s naiveté in dealing Book Review by Rebecca Howden with the awful secret they share is understandable, though disturbing.

‘Sufficient Grace’ It is the wilful blindness of the adults

by Amy Espeseth in the family, and their strident principles in regards to sin and Deep in the heart retribution, that is more unsettling. of rural Wisconsin, 13-year old Ruth and The wilderness setting plays a large her cousin Naomi role in the world of Sufficient Grace. are grappling with The winter is violently cold, and the sin, penance and landscape can be both beautiful and the dark tensions brutal. When Ruth seeks solace, the of adulthood. Living in a small farmland and forest are her source of community tightly bound by their comfort. The ice shimmering silently Pentecostal faith, the two girls are like on the lake, the peeling black and sisters, wrapped up in an unconditional white skin of a birch tree, the sap that devotion to one another – “she is bleeds slowly from its cracks, the deer mine,” Ruth often reflects. They are that eat from an apple tree “like dark, also bound together by a horrifying silent ghosts” – all are reminders secret, and as they seek help of God. At the same time, images of through prayer, their faith becomes hunted animals, slaughtered deer as suffocating as it is a comfort. strung up from the trees and blood

Bookshelf

Sufficient Grace is the debut novel from Melbourne-based American writer Amy Espeseth, and won the 2009 Victorian Premier’s Literary Award for an unpublished manuscript.

Narrated through the perspective of Ruth, the story stretches slowly over five months in a harsh winter, brought to life with an enchanting, almost folksy resonance. It comes as no surprise that Espeseth herself grew up in a Wisconsin fundamentalist community much like Ruth’s. This is an authentic rendering of a world created through intimate knowledge and a penchant for rich, earthy detail.

dripping onto the snow create a potent feeling of dread. As the smallest details slowly build, innocence seems always quietly under threat.

Sufficient Grace is a slow burning novel with a dark intensity that simmers beneath largely silent images. As Ruth reflects, “People on the land live close to the beginnings and endings of life. Death ain’t a scary thing that creeps in now and again in the night… We are people that raise, hunt and butcher.”

Much of the novel centres on simple, nostalgic images of rural life, from Ruth hunting in the forest with her father and brother, to the cousins

MARCH 2013

33

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