3000 Melbourne Magazine Issue 84 NOVEMBER 2013

Page 1

Celebrating 50 years of Bond

Melbourne Music Week Showcasing & Supporting our local music scene

Lessons in Leadership From the world’s most extreme workplace

Melbourne Now largest & most ambitious exhibition in NGV history

68th Australian Dancesport Championship Swings into town NOVEMBER 2013

ISSUE

in Style & Song

84


y Wa

Wurundje ri

River

s H wy

Yarra

and

Lorimer St

ck l

M1 West Gate Freew

Do

ay St

M1 We st

eway

R by

t eS

gu

Johnso

St

ta on

t yS

nro

Mu

Gate Fre

M

r da

un

Bo

n St

White

St

Brady

an

rm

No

d


This magazine has a distribution of 16,000 copies throughout Melbourne CBD, Docklands, parts of Southbank and rotating through South Melbourne and surrounding areas with a readership of approximately 40,000. If you would like to stock 3000Melbourne at your place of business please email Lisa at editor@magmdia.com.au published by

Magmedia Pty Ltd ABN 69 118 720 960, Registered Office: Suite 3, 15-17 Pakington St, St Kilda VIC 3182 Ph: (03) 8506 9908 Fax: (03) 9525 3944 3000melbourne welcomes any contributions from our readers. Please send material to the above address. 3000melbourne is a free publication and is distributed through selected outlets. Views expressed in 3000melbourne do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editor or publisher. No responsibility is accepted by 3000melbourne for the accuracy of the advertisements or information within the publication. All material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled “Not for publication”. After two calendar months uncollected prizes will be claimed by 3000melbourne and may be re-drawn. No part of this publication may be recorded, stored in a retrieval system or reproduced in any form without permission of The Publisher. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this publication. The opinions in this publication do not necessarily represent the views of The Publisher.

14

Visit our website

& subscribe to our range of magmedia publications for free

www.magmedia.com.au Join us now on Facebook & Increase your chance to WIN great GIVEAWAYS www.facebook.com/3000melbourne

Join us now on TWITTER

16

Twitter.com/3000MelbMag

CONTENTS

publishers Susan Riley {susanr@magmedia.com.au} William Rowe {williamr@magmedia.com.au} editor Lisa Quittner {editor@magmedia.com.au} magazine enquiries {enquiries@magmedia.com.au} design Susan de Kretser - Smith & Rowe {susandk@smithandrowe.com.au} advertising Belle Ngien 0411 615 910 {advertise@magmedia.com.au} cover image Bond (Daniel Craig) takes in the view of the countryside that he grew up in, the Scottish highlands. Skyfall ©2012 Danjaq, LLC, United Artists Corporation, Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc. All rights reserved. contributing writers Tom Elliott, Andrew Hewison, Dana Atkin, Rebecca Howden, Tahlia Mandie, Jane Hutchinson, Janine Phillips, Tess Murphy, Greg Shoemark.

Congratulations!

to the winners of our OCTOBER COmpetitions: Mark Topy

Jordy Collier

Jenny Patrizio

Gaye Lewis

Allan Hong

Trevor Trewin

Carly Stelling

Theo Nicholas

Marcus Rosenberg

Tara Alcock

Justin Morre

Ian Woff

Jason Murray

Angelina Siris

Shaun Zapadlo

Editor’s NOTE

November -

The calm before the festive storm 4-5

Events this November Plan Melbourne Jean keeps her CBD business revving

7 8

Melbourne Music Week

10

Melbourne Now – NGV

12

Wonderland Carnivale

13

Designing 007- 50 Years of Bond

14

Ben Mingay - Songs of James Bond

15

Dancesports Championships

16

Jewish International Film Festival

17

5 Short Blasts

18

Tom Elliott

19

Suit Up and Ride Leading on the Edge Santa’s Magical Kingdom MCG Open Day 3000 Wellbeing Section

22 24-25 26 27 28-33

Picture This Exhibition

30

3000’s Kitchen

31

3000’s Bookshelf

33

3000 Urban

34

Thinking about the most recognisable and successful brands and franchises over the past 50 years, the likes of Coca Cola, Nike, McDonalds and Apple, come to mind, but if you were to say “007”, wouldn’t most, if not everyone you quizzed know exactly who you were referring to…Bond, James Bond? In style and song, Melbourne will be treated to two extraordinary and exclusive events this November celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of the 007 – James Bond franchise. Outside of London, Toronto and Shanghai, Melbourne will be the only Australian destination for Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style Exhibition at Melbourne Museum, which coincides with three performances only of The Songs of James Bond at the Athenaeum Theatre. We spoke to rising star of stage and small screen, Ben Mingay about his part in this fabulous concert series. I really enjoyed learning more about Platinum Award recipient in this year’s Lord Mayor’s Commendations, Jean Beanham and her family business, Modak Motorcycles. After almost six decades running their spare parts business in Elizabeth Street,

Jean and son David have seen their fair share of changes in Melbourne. Rachael Robertson shares her tips for effective leadership learnt firsthand leading a group of 18 strangers for 12 months in the world’s most extreme workplace – Antarctica. Whether it’s Melbourne Music Week, the historic NGV exhibition Melbourne Now, the cinematic masterpieces presented in this year’s Jewish International Film Festival, Suit Up and Ride charity event or the 68th Australian Dancesport Championships, there is always so much to see, do and learn in Melbourne and we are delighted to bring you our coverage of these events inside this issue. As Christmas peeks around the corner, events to get you into the spirit of merriment are underway. Santa’s Magical Kingdom, Santa’s Christmas Spectacular at Wonderland Spiegeltent and Christmas on the Green all kick off this month, so get your festive cheer at the ready and enjoy the November calm before the official festive storm.

Lisa Quittner editor@magmedia.com.au

NOVEMBEr 2013

3


30

Events

vember o N

13 Nov

~

The 2013 British Film Festival Celebrate one of the most illustrious and established cinema industries with an exceptional program of contemporary and classic films. The British Film Festival is bookended by two highly anticipated features; ‘One Chance’, the rags to riches story of Paul Potts, first winner of Britain’s Got Talent, and closing the Festival is ‘Philomena’, starring Judi Dench, which was just awarded Best Screenplay at the Venice Film Festival. The BFF will also feature the voted for top 5 greatest British Films of the 20th century.

When: 20 Nov – 1 December, 2013 Where: Cinema Como & Palace Cinema Balwyn Bookings & Program: palacecinemas.com.au Further Info: britishfilmfestival.com.au

FLEMINGTON VETERINARY HOSPITAL

FULL VETERINARY SERVICES

15% OFF CONSULTATION FEE WHEN YOU PRESENT THIS VOUCHER AT RECEPTION FOR NEW CLIENTS magmedia.com.au

4

9376 5299 OPEN 7 DAYS 187 Mount Alexander Rd (Cnr Kent St) Ascot Vale www.flemingtonvet.com.au

NOW ON FACEBOOK

The Night Market at Queen Victoria Market The mid-week summer tradition is back! Queen Victoria Market’s ‘The Night Market’ is the place to meet every Wednesday night to eat and drink your way around the world with the renowned street food stalls, vintage fashion, eclectic wares, wine bars and live music. The Night Market creates a carnival style atmosphere as the sun sets, with over 150 stalls showcasing local designers, artists, gourmet regional produce and fashion together with free busker style entertainment now on three stages across the site.

When: Wednesdays from 6 Nov – 26 Feb, 2014 Time: 5pm – 10pm Where: Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Further Info: www.qvm.com.au

o 6N

When: Saturday 30 November Where: Princess Theatre, Melbourne Tickets: From $48 -$68 Bookings: ticketmaster.com.au

When: 13 November – 1 December Where: The Coopers Malthouse Merlyn Theatre, Southbank Tickets: 9685 5111 Further Info: malthousetheatre.com.au

ec 1D

Arresting sights and sounds of awe and beauty from Aboriginal Australia. A powerhouse of contemporary Aboriginal music, Black Arm Band together with the virtuosic Melbourne Symphony Orchestra present the world premiere performance of ngangwurra means heart - the stunning partner to Black Arm Band’s internationally acclaimed ‘dirtsong’. A major new visual music theatre work created in collaboration with some of Australia’s most revered artists, bringing together more than thirty performers to present seven new musical works performed in five Aboriginal languages.

c

e

For One Night Only

Super Discount, the new show by acclaimed theatre-makers Back to Back Theatre explores the eternal fight of good versus evil, the ultimate winner will be a new kind of hero – low fi, profoundly human, and more resplendent in the strength of his beliefs than his natty lycra costume. This is the world of Super Discount, where the super in superhuman no longer involves square jaws and a set of washboard abs but questions what it really means to be a hero.

ov ~ 1 D

‘ngangwurra means heart’

20 N

SUPER DISCOUNT!

v~

26 Feb


City2Sea this November for Movember The third annual City2Sea offers a unique opportunity to take in a range of Melbourne’s iconic locations, while enjoying some entertainment along the way. The 14km point-to-point course takes entrants from the Arts Centre, along St Kilda Road, around Albert Park Grand Prix circuit and on to a spectacular finish by the sea in St Kilda. For the first time City2Sea will also feature a 5km course. City2Sea 2013 aims to raise funds for a host of charities including official charity partner, Movember.

When: 11 & 12 November, 7pm Where: Ormond Hall – Moubray St, Melbourne Tickets: OZtix -1300 762 545 Further Info: www.soultheatre.org.au

Lunchbox Session Grow Tomatoes With Sandi Pullman Having trouble growing tomatoes? Can you grow them on your balcony? How much fertiliser do they need? Learn the secrets with Sandi Pullman; horticultural advisor to the ABC TV’s Gardening Australia, contributor to ‘Your Vegie Patch’ magazine and regular Hub speaker. Sandi will give you tips on how to grow beautiful, tasty tomatoes for summer. Sandi Pullman has a wealth of university horticultural education along with 22 years of home gardening experience. Each participant takes home a tomato plant. When: Thursday 14 November, 12.30pm Where: The Hub @ Docklands 80 Harbour Esplanade Entry: FREE Bookings Required: 8622 4822

When: 22 –30, November Where: Chunky Move Studios 111 Sturt St, Southbank Bookings: chunkymove.com or 9645 5188

30 N

~

11 & 12 Nov

14

Chunky Move will present the world premiere of AORTA, a new work by award winning choreographer and dancer, Stephanie Lake. AORTA is commissioned by Chunky Move as part of Next Move – a program committed to nurturing the next generation of Australia’s leading dance makers. AORTA integrates Stephanie Lake’s physically complex and visceral movement style, three male dancers and an original composition by Robin Fox. Exploring growth and decay, electricity and magnetism, AORTA dissects the notion that at any given moment we are both alive and dying.

22

When: Sun 17 Nov – 14km event starts at 8am - 5km run/walk starts at 9.15am Meeting point: The Arts Centre, Melbourne Finish area (for spectators): Pier Road, St Kilda Register: www.thecity2sea.com.au

SOUL Theatre Inc., an iconic Melbourne not-for-profit, has been using the power of theatre to change lives for 20 years. This month, some of Australia’s well-loved music icons will sing their songs and tell their stories in a special concert in support of SOUL. Featuring Tania Doko of Bachelor Girl, Russell Morris, Daryl Braithwaite and joined by Elliott Goblet as MC, this is a rare opportunity for fans, or anyone who enjoys good storytelling, to hear the touching and revealing stories behind the songs.

Chunky Move Presents AORTA No vember

ovember 7N 1

SOUL THEATRE PRESENTS The Heart & Soul Concert

Events

a Meid ax irf Fa

ovember

NOVEMBEr 2013

5


NEIGHBOURHOOD

Annual Christmas Charity Lunch Central Pier at Docklands will be the heart of goodwill this Christmas Eve with the Atlantic Group [v], Schiavello Group & The Father Bob Foundation Annual Christmas Lunch for over 300 guests is held for the second year. This huge charity event will be hosted in the iconic waterfront venue, Peninsula where over 50 staff will volunteer their time to prepare and serve lunch for those who are disadvantaged or without family this Christmas. With all time, resources, food and entertainment donated by Atlantic Group [v], Schiavello Group and their valued suppliers, this wonderful event will extend the true meaning of giving this Christmas. To get involved with sponsorship or donation please contact Jessica O’Brien from Atlantic Group [v] on 8623 9600 or email jessicao@atlanticgroupv.com.au

Father Bob Maguire with Hatem Saleh, Managing Director of Atlantic Group [v] of Companies.

‘Butt Out in Causeway Lane’ Last month we posed the following question to readers ‘Should we be told to butt out in Causeway Lane’ (Page 6, Issue 83) in response to the landmark step made by the City of Melbourne to trial a six month ban on smoking outdoors in Causeway Lane.

magmedia.com.au

6

The responses we received were split down the middle; while the majority agreed that smoke free zones were advantageous overall, half did not agree with being told what to do, despite overwhelming agreement that smoking is detrimental to the health of both smokers and non-smokers. Following are two comments received from readers that summarised the overall sentiment from respondents.

“I would love to see a smoke free CBD for everyone's health and wellbeing!” Liz “It’s no secret that smoking kills, but while it remains legal to buy and sell cigarettes, don’t tell me in public areas where and when I can smoke them. I have less of an issue with the sale of cigarettes being banned outright than I do with local, state or federal governments regulating when , where and what I do with my ‘legal’ freedom of choice.” Dante To comment on these responses, or on any other issue you wish to address email editor@magmedia.com.au


NEIGHBOURHOOD

Melbourne on track as nation’s commercial and residential capital by 2040 The planning and transport blueprint that will shape how Melburnians will work and live over the next 40 years will ensure Melbourne remains as the world’s most liveable city into the future. Plan Melbourne, the Victorian Coalition Government’s strategy for Melbourne’s growth to the year 2050 was launched by Premier Napthine and Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy last month. “This is a very exciting time for Melbourne and Victoria as we build and grow this great city and state. This long-term planning strategy will keep Melbourne at the forefront of the world’s cities for decades to come,” Dr Napthine said. New forecasts have revealed that the City of Melbourne is likely to eclipse the City of Sydney as a jobs hub before 2040 or even earlier as major new urban renewal precincts including Fishermans Bend, E-Gate and Arden Macaulay come online and Docklands is completed. Analysis prepared as part of the metropolitan planning blueprint, Plan Melbourne, suggests that the City of Melbourne could surpass employment in the City of Sydney as early as 2036 with a total of more than 700,000 jobs – up from around 450,000 in 2011. Minister Matthew Guy said the growth of the City of Melbourne was not just about jobs but about building a new labour force that lives and works in one central location. “The key to a productive and competitive Melbourne is a reduction

in the cost and time it takes for the labour force to travel to work. That is why the Victorian Coalition Government is unlocking residential and mixed use development opportunities in and around the CBD of Melbourne. Every resident that lives and works in the central city saves Victorian taxpayers money in regard to road and public transport costs. In building the nation’s largest jobs hub we also need to build the largest residential hub “Mr Guy said. The Property Council has welcomed the release of the Plan Melbourne blueprint and has encouraged the State Government to instruct its new Metropolitan Planning Authority to move decisively on its implementation. Property Council of Australia (Victoria) Executive Director, Jennifer Cunich, said Plan Melbourne was a grand vision for Melbourne which is the end result of extensive industry consultation and community engagement. “Plan Melbourne will help our city retain its enviable living standards by encouraging job creation, lifting metro-wide connectivity and by boosting planning and investment certainty,” said Ms Cunich. “The Property Council supports the establishment of a Metropolitan Planning Authority as a critical element of Plan Melbourne’s success” said Ms Cunich. For further information visit: www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au

NOVEMBEr 2013

7


NEIGHBOURHOOD

JEAN'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE CITY

RECOGNISED WITH PLATINUM AWARD BY LISA QUITTNER The Lord Mayor’s Commendations recognise the people behind the businesses that continue to make Melbourne the world’s most liveable city. 2013 Platinum recipient, Jean Beanham of Modak Motorcycles, together with her son, David, has kept her Elizabeth Street store open for business for over five decades and are one of the oldest family businesses operating in the CBD. Jean with her late husband, Robert, acquired Modak Motorcycles in 1955. The company was founded in 1930 and is probably the oldest established motorcycle business in Australia. Specialising in the supply of spare parts for early English motorcycles, the Beanham’s enjoy being located in Elizabeth Street, which has been the home of the motorcycle trade for over 100 years and continues to be a hub for motorcycle enthusiasts in Melbourne. Today at 88 years of age, Jean still works five and a half days a week. 3000Melbourne spoke to David about how business and the city has changed over the decades and on receiving this Lord Mayor’s Commendation.

Considering how different the times were back in Melbourne in the 1950’s, how did Jean get into the motorcycle spare parts business originally? My mother came out from England just after the war and married my father. My family had a long association with the motorcycle business, so I guess she was dragged into, so to speak, by association. magmedia.com.au

8

What have been the biggest changes to running your business throughout the decades? The business has basically stayed the same. We have sold spare parts for

mainly English motorcycles, as well as American Harley Davidson and Indian in the past, but the biggest change has been what people are doing with their motorcycles over the years. When we started out motorcycles were a form of transport but as time has gone on and these motorcycles have become older they are more collector’s items and objects for restoration rather than something that is ridden on a daily basis to get around, as was the case when we started.

How has the city of Melbourne changed? I think the most profound changes are those that have happened in the last 5-10 years. The city has changed from a place of business, manufacture and industry to a place of residence and the city has changed accordingly. The shops that are opening now are the likes of restaurants. It’s not so much retail that is predominating as are the service industries, hairdressers, restaurants and places that are needed for a city that has an expanding residential population. On the negative side, it is getting more difficult to get around as a person that runs a business that requires collections and deliveries. For instance, the likes of La Trobe and Elizabeth Street are becoming single lanes and with super tram stops it makes it difficult to get around.

You must have seen many city businesses close their doors permanently over the years, what do you think has kept Modak Motorcycles operating for so long? I think it’s because we stayed small, to put it simply. It’s about maintaining costs as much as you can, which isn’t

easy. In the early days we had two shops on the other side of Elizabeth Street to where we are now; they were acquired by the Underground Loop Authority in 1972 with the building of the underground railway station. My father was lucky to find this place and he bought it with the proceeds of what he was given for the other two shops. I think because we own the building where we are has been a major factor in keeping the doors open, if we were paying rent chances are we wouldn’t be here, it’s as simple as that. We also have knowledge of our market and being in the city certainly has its advantages in regards to passing trade, people walk past and stop, which you probably wouldn’t get out in the suburbs. One of the greatest challenges to our business and all retail businesses today, is the internet. Take a walk down Bridge Road or Swan Street in Richmond and all you will see are ‘For Lease’ and ‘For Sale’ signs.

What does it mean to you and Jean receiving this Lord Mayor’s Commendation? It’s a very nice thing. You do your job day in and day out for many years and it’s nice to be recognised as contributing something to city life. It’s nice to know the council recognises that small business

and people are the life of the city, we appreciate the recognition. VISIT JEAN AND DAVID AT: Modak Motocycles 299 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Ph: 03 9602 1229 Email: modak@hotkey.net.au Web: www.modakmotorcycles.com.au


Culture

NOVEMBEr 2013

9


Melbourne Music Week

MELBOURNE MUSIC WEEK All Things Melbourne By Tess Murphy This city loves to spoil its residents and for its fourth year, Melbourne Music Week (MMW) will lavish the city from 15 to 24 November, celebrating all things Melbourne in a very musical way. This festival will be a fusion of art, culture, music, technology, multimedia and innovation featuring more than 100 events, more than 230 artists with 75 event partners over 60 locations around the city with 75 percent of the acts from Victoria. Here are a few highlights that are must-sees, put on by local artists in new, exciting venues, and best of all, over half of all the events at MMW are free.

The Residence The Residence is a dome structure constructed in Birrarung Marr surrounded by the People’s Garden. The dome will display a series of light installations combined with video mapping and art, working simultaneously with music. Most of the main concerts charge an entrance fee at The Residence, but on Sunday, 17 November, from noon-7pm, “Discover Melbourne Beats & Bass” will include artists from the city’s underground electronic talents and is free. 17 November Noon-7pm People’s Garden at Birrarung Marr Label Series The Label Series will take place across three very interesting venues. Producers, I Oh You’s present a list of wild DJ’s in Flagstaff Station for the biggest underground train station party. Although already sold out, you can catch the Lost & Lonesome independent label, which will bring a collaboration of 15 acts to the North Melbourne Meat Market. And finally, where’s a better location to listen to garage punk music than an underground car park? Aarght Records will host a variety of homegrown artists in the Melbourne University car park. Although these events aren’t free, they deserve to be recognised for the collection of different music genres and the quirky choice of venues. Swallowed by the Future 17 November 4pm-late Melbourne University South Lawn Carpark

magmedia.com.au

10

Lost & Lonesome 15 23 November 1pm-late Meat Market

Live Music Safari On Thursday 21 November, MMW is featuring the Live Music Safari, with more than 40 local artists and music across various venues in Melbourne. Two of my favorite bars, Section 8 and Ferdydurke are co-presenting ‘The Operatives’ with a wide range of different acts including hip hop, dance, dub step and base. Ferdydurke and Section 8 will have free entry, but you are encouraged to buy a drink to support the cause and enjoy these eclectic bars. 21 November 5pm-late Ferdydurke and Section 8 Films & Exhibitions Melbourne’s leading institutions in art and film will present pieces featuring musical artists, the industry and their struggle. Quite a few of the cinematic experiences titled “Fragile Lives & Beautiful Losers” will charge an entrance fee however, Rooftop Cinema will feature a few films free of charge and what is more Melbourne than watching a movie in a makeshift cinema on a rooftop in the CBD?

Self-Made The Self-Made category allows individuals to design and produce their own events specifically for MMW. One of the more unique self-made performances is a vintage female barbershop quartet titled Bobby and the Pins. These ladies will be riding down Swanston Street on Melbourne Share Bikes, dressed in 1950s apparel, singing some of the classic oldies. Quirky, fun and free. 21-23 November Noon-2pm Swanston Street Look. Stop. Bop. This portion of the program is interactive, explorative and free. Various musical activities will take place in restaurants and cafes. On Thursday, 21 November, a free dance class is offered in Campbell Arcade. Titled No Lights, No Lycra, this class has no teacher, no steps to follow, no structure. It encourages free movement and exploration allowing participants to release stress from their hard day’s work. 21 November 6-9pm Campbell Arcade, Melbourne

18 - 22 November Rooftop Cinema Level 6, 252 Swanston Street Melbourne Workshops & Industry Panel sessions and keynote speakers will discuss what makes Melbourne the music capital of Australia and how it caters to independent artists. Most panels are $90/two day pass. However, Raquel Solier will host a free two day workshop to discuss her unique experiences using MIDI and Virtual Studio Technology to manipulate sound. While this event is free, registration is essential. 16 - 17 November -1pm-4pm Signal -Northbank Flinders Walk

This is a summary of free events and unique highlights around Melbourne for Melbourne Music Week taking place from 15 to 24 November. To learn more about the acts, performances and artists featured in MMW visit the full program online at www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/mmw


NEIGHBOURHOOD

NOVEMBEr 2013

11


NEIGHBOURHOOD

‘MELBOURNE NOW’ – MAKES NGV HISTORY The National Gallery of Victoria will open Melbourne Now, the largest and most ambitious exhibition in its history this November. The NGV has revealed a list of over 300 artists, architects, designers and creative practitioners who are participating in this landmark exhibition. Tony Ellwood, Director, NGV said: “Melbourne has a dynamic creative identity, and through several key themes such as the poetics of place, history and memory, independent production, play and participation, visitors to Melbourne Now can explore the complexity of the city’s creativity in a major exhibition over the summer months.”

magmedia.com.au

12

Melbourne Now will present major new commissions and a range of new works by leading emerging and established artists. Visual arts projects encompass the fullest range of contemporary art disciplines and practices, from painting, sculpture, drawing, ceramics and contemporary jewellery, to photography, video, sound, performance, installation and online projects. In addition to the involvement of over 20 NGV curators, Melbourne Now involves more than 10 guest curators who have contributed to specific areas such as architecture, design, dance and sound programming, as well as artists who have been invited to respond to the NGV Collection, or to develop dedicated ‘exhibitions within the exhibition’.

Daniel Crooks - born New Zealand 1973, arrived Australia 1994 A garden of parallel paths 2012 (still), single-channel High Definition video, colour, 16:9 Private collection © the artist and Anna Schwartz Galler

As well as a diverse exhibition offering, located at the entrance to NGV International is Community Hall, an architecturally designed space created by the architectural firm McBride Charles Ryan. This highly participatory space will serve as a workshop, stage, platform and catwalk, hosting a rotating program of over 600 events throughout Melbourne Now.

For the full list of artists and to view a short film about Melbourne Now visit the NGV website at www.ngv.vic.gov.au Melbourne Now will be on display at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia and NGV International from 22 November through to 23 March 2014. 10am–5pm daily. Free entry.


NEIGHBOURHOOD

ROLL UP! ROLL UP FOR

WONDERLAND

CARNIVALE! Over three consecutive weekends of Spiegelicious madness, an exciting line-up of top comedians from Australia and the UK, along with world class performance artists from the underground circus world will take over Wonderland Spiegeltent. Bawdy belly laughs mixed with breathtaking acrobatics and sexy sideshow antics will create the Christmas party bonanza that is Wonderland Carnivale! Award-winning British comedian Jeff Green will be joined by Aussie funny girls - the much-loved Fiona O’Loughlin and Bev Killick; Lilikoi Kaos – famous for wowing audiences around the globe as well as the incredible, Farhad and aerial artist, Elise Jaworwoski. Home to the popular family event Santa’s Christmas Spectacular by day, Wonderland Spiegeltent will be transformed each weekend when the sun goes down into a delightfully twisted atmosphere of intrigue, Spiegelicious performances and comedy that will have Santa blushing. With some dates already booked out, there is no time to delay for what promises to be spectacularly fun filled show and a great option for end of year celebrations.

Director of Wonderland, Melissa Head, says Wonderland Carnivale offers a fantastic Christmas party option – with catering packages available - for small businesses, offices, or groups of friends planning a night out. The Wonderland Spiegeltent has developed a reputation as an arts and comedy venue quite like no other, representing a historic Belgian travelling dance hall featuring stained glass windows, mirrors and a circus-like atmosphere – perfect for a comedy event. The venue’s signature cocktails, including their Toffee Apple with fairy floss garnish and the Snow Cone Cruiser make the perfect accompaniment to a great night of laughs and entertainment.

WONDERLAND CARNIVALE Friday and Saturday evenings Nov 22,23,29,30 / Dec 7, 8 & 14 Show begins at 8:30pm

Destination Docklands Melbourne’s Playground

120 Pearl River Road, Harbour Town, Docklands Tickets: $39.50 (discounts available to groups of 4 and over) Bookings: 03 9602 1311 or online at wonderlandspiegeltent.com.au Catering Packages are available NOVEMBEr 2013

13


Special Feature

Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style Rare costumes, atmospheric sets, iconic gadgets, props, original photographs and concept drawings will thrill audiences in this summer blockbuster exhibition at Melbourne Museum celebrating the 50th anniversary of the James Bond franchise. Melbourne is the one and only stop in Australia for Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style this summer. To date, the world tour of the exhibition has included London, Toronto and Shanghai. Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style presents the craft behind the icon, focusing on the distinctly British luxuriance of the world's most iconic movie brand. The exhibition looks at the design and style of the James Bond franchise and the craft behind the sets, the music, gadgets, vehicles, technology and fashion over the course of five decades.

magmedia.com.au

14

Camille Montes played by Olga Kurylenko, with Daniel Craig as James Bond.

The Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style exhibition is a collaboration between the Barbican and EON Productions. The unique exhibition was curated by the Barbican, guest-curated by fashion historian Bronwyn Cosgrave and Oscar®-winning costume designer Lindy Hemming and designed by Ab Rogers who had unprecedented access to EON Production’s archive. “We’re delighted to work with our colleagues from the Barbican to bring such a popular exhibition to Melbourne Museum. Alongside the Spring Racing Carnival, the Australian Open Tennis and the Boxing Day Test Match, Designing 007: Fifty years of Bond Style will thrill visitors from interstate and overseas,” said Dr Patrick Greene, CEO, Museum Victoria. Items such as Roger Moore’s white tuxedo from Octopussy and the Spacesuit

Quantum of Solace © 2008 Danjaq, LLC, United Artists Corporation, Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

from Moonraker are displayed alongside the orange bikini worn by Halle Berry in Die Another Day and Daniel Craig’s sky-blue trunks from Casino Royale. Exhibits on display also include Scaramanga’s Golden Gun from The Man with the Golden Gun, Oddjob’s steel-rimmed bowler hat and the prototype of Rosa Klebb’s deadly flick-knife shoes worn in From Russia with Love, Tee-Hee’s metal arm from Live and Let Die and Jaws’ fearsome teeth which first appeared in The Spy Who Loved Me. In addition, the Aston Martin DB5 from 2012’s Skyfall, one of the most recognised Bond cars will also be on display, the iconic silver DB5 is regarded as the ultimate James Bond vehicle. “The love affair between Bond and the classic British car began when Sean

SEAN CONNERY relaxes on the bumper of his Aston Martin DB5 during the filming of location scenes for 'Goldfinger' in the Swiss Alps. © 1964 Danjaq, LLC and United Artists Corporation. All rights reserved.

Connery as James Bond drove the Aston Martin DB5 in 1964’s Goldfinger,” said Shane Salmon, Exhibition Manager, Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style. “This DB5 was reworked for Skyfall to resemble Bond’s first model with Daniel Craig, as James Bond, driving it to Scotland for the film’s climactic ending.” Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style is a multi-sensory experience where screen icons, costumes, production design, automobiles, gadgets, special effects, graphic design, exotic locations, weapons, stunts and props combine to immerse the audience in the creation and development of Bond style over its 50-year history. Designing 007: Fifty Years of Bond Style From 1 November - 23 February 2014 Monday to Friday – Opens 10am Saturday & Sunday – Opens 9am Melbourne Museum 11 Nicholson St, Carlton Tickets: (includes general entry to Melbourne Museum) Adults from $24 Children from $14 Concessions from $16 Ticketek.com.au/bondstyle or 132 849 More information is available at www.designing007melbourne.com

Jinx (HALLE BERRY) has her first encounter with James Bond in the beach bar in Cuba.

© 2002 Danjaq, LLC and United Artists Corporation. All rights reserved.


Special Feature

THE SONGS OF JAMES BOND –

FEATURING BEN MINGAY By Lisa Quittner Over the 50 years since the first 007 film hit the big screen, the songs and music of James Bond films have been an integral part of the success of the James Bond movie franchise. Performed by some of the greatest artists of the modern era, James Bond films have developed a tradition of producing major pop hits. For the first time this November some of the finest musical Bond moments will be performed on stage in ‘The Songs of James Bond’ along with a specifically designed visual backdrop of images and footage inspired by the films of James Bond by visual artist, Georgie Pinn, for two nights only. ‘The Songs of James Bond’ features some of Australia’s most accomplished and respected singers performing these unforgettable songs. Maria Mercedes, Kiyomi Vella, Susie Ahern and Ben Mingay, with the 14 piece Spectre Orchestra, will give their own contemporary edge to these timeless classics. 3000Melbourne spoke to actor, musician, international musical theatre performer and star of Channel 10’s ‘Wonderland’, Ben Mingay about his career and performing in ‘The Songs of Bond’. Loving your character on Channel 10’s ‘Wonderland’, how did the role come about and how are you enjoying playing the character of Rob? The role came up on the back of the final season of ‘Packed to the Rafters’. There were common parties involved with both productions so they had seen my work which

followed on with going through the audition ringer for ‘Wonderland’. From the first day I felt connected to the character of Rob, it just seemed to fit and feel real, I guess it was one of those things that was meant to be. You are quite a seasoned professional in the world of musical theatre and as a musician, but many people may recognise you more widely for your television work. Is that frustrating for you considering the scope of work you’ve done here and internationally over the past decade? Not really, a lot of my work in musical theatre and music was done overseas apart from the last couple of years. Working overseas was a great experience for me and I think the reason I grew as a performer to be able to cross over to television was because it grounded me as an actor performing with different people and having different life experiences. When I was younger I wished I had become rich and famous earlier in my life but now I realise I have been blessed that things have worked out the way they have because I feel now is the right time for me to be doing television and everything has contributed to the place I’m at now. This November you are performing in The Songs of Bond, are you a Bond fan and can you tell us a bit about the shows? I think everyone knows Bond and the classic songs. These shows are going to be really great, the audience will enjoy a night of reminiscing through the songs but with a little bit of a fresh spin on

them considering the talent of the performers who have all proven through their careers to be very good at what they do. It will be a trip down memory lane and a chance to hear some fantastic vocalists singing the classic songs we all know. What songs will you be performing? I’ll be singing ‘We Have All the Time in the World’, the old Duran Duran classic, ‘View to a Kill’, ‘Live and Let Die’… we are all doing around five songs and then there are a few songs we are doing together as well. I believe the visuals for the show are quite stunning, it sounds like this is a show not to be missed. Word on the street is the visuals and imagery will be very cool. It’s really amazing how far the Bond concept has come over all these years. ‘The Songs of James Bond’ promises to be a great show that won’t get clouded by choreography or anything like that, just great singers putting their interpretation on classic Bond songs without going too far from the original recordings. It will definitely be a night to relax and enjoy with a whole lot of WOW FACTOR!

‘The Songs of Bond’ Friday 8th November: 8pm Saturday 9th November: 2pm & 8pm The Athenaeum Theatre - Melbourne Tickets: ticketek.com.au or 9650 1500 From: $50 - $99 www.thesongsofjamesbond.com.au

NOVEMBER 2013

15


CULTURE

THE 68TH AUSTRALIAN DANCESPORT

Photos by Dancesportphoto.net

CHAMPIONSHIP IN MELBOURNE Experience the glitz, glamour and intense competition as Australian and International champions of dancesport kick up their heels at Australia’s only International dancesport event, the 68th Australian DanceSport Championship at Hisense Arena on 6, 7 and 8 December, 2013. The annual Australian DanceSport Championship offers audiences the opportunity to see the absolute best dancesport in the world, right here in Melbourne, with exciting and intense competition as couples compete to defend their titles and take out the 2013 Australian DanceSport Championship. The 2013 event will be highlighted with a feature floorshow from none other than the world’s best, Michael Malitowski & Joanna Leunis, this dynamic due are World, British, UK and International Professional Latin champions. Bringing together their natural dynamics, precision, agility and unique choreography, their performance will inspire. The physical attributes and demands of dancesport are often underestimated. Competitors undergo rigorous training, which is often deemed greater than that of a marathon runner. Their athleticism and fitness levels are honed to ensure they can sustain a consistently high quality dance performance over numerous rounds of competition at the elite level.

magmedia.com.au

Make sure you don’t miss a step and quickstep into Hisense Arena over three days of exciting entertainment. The 68th Australian DanceSport Championship will also feature a Schools Program, Master Class with Michael & Joanna, Fred & Ginger themed Cocktail Party at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins and more.

6-8 December, 2013 | Tickets: Through Ticketek 13 28 49 or www.ticketek.com.au | Further Information: www.theaustralianchampionship.com.au 16


The Jewish International Film Festival (JIFF) is back with a show-stopping line-up of 51 Israeli and Jewish-themed features, documentaries and shorts from around the globe. Building on its dynamic reinvention in 2012 under the helm of Director Eddie Tamir, the Festival will explore the full spectrum of Jewish experience in all its rich complexity, via an incredible 50 Australian premiere screenings, spread, for the first time, across 12 diverse categories to assist film goers in navigating the eclectic slate of movies on offer. The titles of these categories, which hint at the cinematic gems within, include All the World’s a Stage, Quality Schmaltz, Triumph of the Spirit, Coming of Age, Drama and Desire, Brilliant Minds, Haunted

Histories, Power to the People, Reimagining Culture, Women on Film, Hamatzav (The Situation) and…Living Dead (yes, every Festival needs a good Zombie flick!) Launching JIFF 2013 will be Fill the Void, the poignant story of an 18 year-old girl who finds herself torn between love and duty when pressured to marry the husband of her late sister. This drama is set amidst Tel Aviv’s ultra-Orthodox Hassidic enclave and has won a multitude of prestigious awards and was a resounding hit with both critics and audiences at the Toronto and Venice International Film Festivals. Closing night will pay homage to a great Jewish tradition…humour, with the delicious documentary, When Comedy Went to School - an affectionate look at an era when comic legends such as

Culture

JEWISH international film festival

Jerry Lewis, Sid Caesar, Jerry Stiller, Jackie Mason, Larry King and others honed their patter at the famous Catskill Mountains in upstate New York. Also features rare archival footage of comedians including Lenny Bruce, Rodney Dangerfield, Henny Youngman, Don Rickles, Mel Brooks, Danny Kaye and a young Jerry Seinfeld who all ‘cut their teeth’ on one of the toughest circuits in showbiz. What lies between is a magnificent homage to Jewish culture encompassing such timeless themes as family, tradition, immigration, connectedness, morality, loss, personal triumph in the face of adversity and perhaps, most importantly, hope. 6 – 24 November, 2013 Classic Cinemas, Elsternwick Program: www.jiff.com.au

NOVEMBEr 2013

17


rowing, semaphore and paddling) choreographed to complement the sound work.

Photography by Dean Petersen - Cake Industries

NEIGHBOURHOOD

5 SHORT BLASTS – EXPERIENCE MELBOURNE AS A WATERFRONT CITY

magmedia.com.au

18

5 Short Blasts can be experienced in three ways: • Jump on board the flotilla – book your spot on one of five small battery operated boats on the water throughout the Docklands • Tower Radio 89.5FM - sound installation will be broadcast over a 30 kilometre radius from the Old Harbour Master Tower on the North Wharf in the Docklands, during the performance time

A new arts participation project will take people on a nautical encounter to experience Melbourne as a waterfront city. 5 Short Blasts is an intricate audio based project focusing on the complex orchestrations of weather, industry, vessels and habitation in and around Melbourne’s docks.

along the Yarra River, recounting water tales through recorded interviews of those who work and play on the water. Each boat is fitted with a custom “sound esky” featuring a VHF marine radio that monitors weather broadcasts and vessel traffic from the Melbourne Vessel Traffic Service.

From Water Plaza in Victoria Harbour and Collins Landing at Docklands, audience members will board one of five boats to embark on a choreographed listening journey. Those aboard will have their attention shift from the land to the water – ports, jetties, harbours and the people that use them every day.

“In maritime operations, communicating via a signal of five short blasts means ‘I am unsure of your intentions – I am concerned we are going to collide.’ As a title, 5 Short Blasts evokes a sense of mystery and unknown about Melbourne's water culture,” said Flynn and Humphrey.

Floating on a large body of water in a quiet electric boat, collaborating sound-music artists Madeleine Flynn and Tim Humphrey invite audiences to navigate Melbourne’s waterways in a whole new way. Skippers on board will steer the boats through the Port of Melbourne and

Over the past 18 months, the artists researched many aspects of maritime life and conducted over 40 interviews with people connected to Melbourne’s waterways. These interviews make up the soundtrack to the work. During the voyage, the waterway communities will play out their usual waterside activities (including fishing,

• Web-Boat - a live online experience via a camera connected to one of the flotilla vessels, will be available during the performance times. Experience 5 Short Blasts online via www.5shortblasts.com.au 5 Short Blasts is produced by the City of Melbourne’s Arts Participation Program, with support from Port of Melbourne Corporation. From: Friday, 22 November – Sunday, 15 December 2014 Times Friday 6am & 7.30am / Saturday 8am & 9.30am / Sun 9am & 10.30am Duration 60 minutes Location: Flotilla 1 Departing Water Plaza in Victoria Harbour Location: Flotilla 2 Departing Collins Landing at Docklands Tickets: FREE. Bookings are essential www.trybooking.com/64695 www.5shortblasts.com.au

Good Health – Taking one step at a time! Taking place on the first day of summer at Melbourne’s iconic Tan Track, the Bupa ‘Take Steps for Good Health’ fun run and walk festival celebrates wellness and kickstarting sustainable, healthy habits with family and friends. The announcement of the festival comes as social trends research reveals Victorians are just as satisfied with their personal health as they were a decade ago, even though obesity rates continue to rise. Take Steps ambassador and leading nutritionist Dr Joanna McMillan said: “It’s fantastic that many Victorians are feeling personally satisfied with their health, but we need to make sure we have a level of awareness about the impact of what we consume and how active we are, it’s the small, achievable changes that help us get on, and stay on, the track to good health. The event is aimed at not just thinking about being healthier but actually taking steps to achieve it, participants will also be supporting diabetes research and camps for children living with diabetes, through Diabetes Australia. In keeping with small, manageable steps, the festival will draw Melburnians of all fitness levels for a choice of a 4km or 8km walk or run. The family-friendly event welcomes strollers and walkers as well as those wanting to run. It will also act as a ‘gateway’ to positive actions with a range of health and wellness stalls. The walk/run will be followed by Summer’s Healthiest Picnic with entertainment, games, live cooking demonstrations, healthy living stalls and more. Bupa ‘Take Steps for Good Health’ December 1, 2013 from 9am The Tan Track at Royal Botanical Gardens & Tom’s Block, Melbourne To register visit: takestepsforgoodhealth.com.au.


By Tom Elliott For a Prime Minister who’s just been elected with a strong mandate for change, Tony Abbott’s first few weeks have been dogged by the ‘Expense-Gate’ crisis that goes back several years. In essence, a culture of ‘anything goes’ when it comes to the claiming by politicians of public funds for travel, accommodation, means, drinks, and so on has quite rightly made those of struggling to get by rather angry. There is, however, a simple solution to this mess. And it involves using a government entity most us know all too well: the Australian Tax Office, or ATO.

The real problem with politicians’ expenses, however, is two-fold:

Second, who should have oversight with regards to the legitimacy of such claims? As I have discovered recently, the system in use right now relies wholly on MPs’ honesty. And while I would never want to suggest that Mr Abbott and friends up in Canberra consider themselves to be anything but completely scrupulous, a bit of supervision over such matters never goes astray.

First, just what is official business? A colleague’s wedding? Perhaps a colleague’s funeral? Or even a sporting event? The current list is as long as your arm. One Labor MP with whom I’ve spoken suggests what he calls the ‘Herald-Sun test’ should always apply, ie unless you’re happy for an expense claim to be plastered across the front page, don’t make it in the first place.

Having already mentioned the monotonous reality of regular taxpayers trying to gain deductions for business costs, it seems clear that the ideal entity to check politicians’ expense claims is the ATO. After all, this is the organisation which decided that work clothes could not be deducted unless they bore a corporate logo so hideous that such garments could never be worn socially.

No one doubts that our elected representatives should have the right to be reimbursed for costs incurred on official business. After all, this is what thousands of individuals and companies do every year when it comes to deducting expenses from income to produce taxable profit.

PROPERTY / BUSINESS / FINANCE

How to remove politicians’ snouts from the trough

And when it comes to deductible meals, the ATO argues that sandwiches eaten at a cafe generally cannot be claimed, but the same sandwiches transported into an office environment can. This sort of flexible thinking from the Tax Office is exactly what Tony Abbott needs to clean up Expense-Gate. At the moment the ATO happily sit in regular judgement over all of us. Why not set up a special division in Parliament House to vet the accidentally spurious claims sometimes made by politicians? Remember, sauce for the goose is usually the best sauce for the gander...

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

Japanese cuisine

NOVEMBEr 2013

19


PROPERTY / BUSINESS / FINANCE

Debt is the devil. Isn’t it? By Andrew Hewison If you are completely debt free with a million dollars in the bank, stop reading now. You’re in the position most people aspire to be in. However, the vast majority would benefit from a quick refresher on the ins and outs of debt to ensure we are in control of it, not the other way around.

I refer to debt as “Good Debt” and “Bad Debt.” “Bad Debt” Bad debt is any borrowing you have that you cannot claim a tax deduction for. If you have taken on debt to fund an asset that does not produce income for you, then you cannot claim a tax deduction. Prime examples here include the property you live in, a car loan, or a credit card debt. “Good Debt” Good debt refers to any borrowing incurred to purchase incomeproducing assets. In this instance, you are able to claim a tax deduction for the interest on the borrowing. An investment property loan is tax deductible, as is a loan obtained to purchase shares.

magmedia.com.au

20

As most of us would know, life can get very busy at times and often it’s hard for the average person to keep track of their debt position. For example, a couple may be prudently repaying their home loan, even making extra repayments to save on interest. The result here is that they are building up “equity” in their home. This means they effectively own more of their property than the bank does.

They may also be accruing assets personally, such as a share portfolio with no debt attached to it. In this instance, let’s consider the below scenario. The couple sells their shares ($100,000), using the proceeds to further reduce their home loan (“bad debt”). They then re-borrow the money and re-purchase a similar share portfolio. Their net position is basically the same; however, as they re-borrowed $100,000 for investment purposes, they have now replaced $100,000 worth of “bad debt” with “good debt.” They can now claim a tax deduction for the interest on this loan. Often, and understandably, people are too busy managing other areas of their lives to be aware of these strategies. If you think you may be able to replace “bad debt” with “good debt,” I would be happy to advise and welcome a chat with you to discuss this further. Andrew Hewison is Director and a Certified Financial Planner as well as a regular 3000 Melbourne Contributor: Hewison Private Wealth Level 4, 102 Albert Road, South Melbourne Ph: 9682 1900 Web: www.hewison.com.au


SPECIAL FEATURE 21 OCTOBEr 2013


PROPERTY / BUSINESS / FINANCE

Cadel Evans & Matt Goss

Suit Up and Ride for Youth Mental Health Cadel Evans and Matt Goss will ditch the lycra, suit up and join 2010 Australian of the Year, Professor Patrick McGorry AO at Orygen Youth Health’s quirky corporate cycling event Suit Up and Ride – all to support youth mental health. At Suit Up and Ride corporate teams race on Melbourne Bike Share bikes in a time trial along a short course in the Alexandra Gardens while wearing their suits and ties, what they normally wear to work, or kooky team outfits. In the past there have been miners on bikes, nurses, firemen, advertising spin doctors in white coats, a team in recycled boxes (The Recyclers), and a team dressed as chickens! The very flat course is only 1km long so you definitely don’t need to be a Middle Aged Man In Lycra (MAMIL) or regular cyclist to participate. A variety of great prizes

are awarded to different categories, including best dressed team and even the slowest team! Hunters and Collectors and friends will be performing, and gourmet food vans will keep participants and their supporters well fed. Amongst the fun, enthusiasm and entertainment for the event there is a serious side. It is a race full of heroes doing their bit to address the main health challenge for young Australians – mental illness. “Funds raised at Suit Up and Ride will go towards Orygen Youth Health’s research projects, which explore the best ways to treat mental illnesses such as depression, psychosis, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders as well as finding

Docklands grows as significant economic hub for Victoria magmedia.com.au

22

Docklands is fast becoming Australia’s corporate financial headquarters, with Minister for Planning Matthew Guy opening another National Australia Bank (NAB) office building in the precinct in late October. Mr Guy said the innovative development, between Southern Cross Station and Etihad Stadium is yet another example of

private sector confidence in Melbourne and a key entry point to the growing area. “Docklands is a vital economic hub for Victoria and the decision by NAB to establish its second headquarters here is testament to the area’s continued popularity as a rapidly growing commercial hub,” Mr Guy said.

the best way to avert risks like suicide and to help young people with a mental illness resume their lives, and get back to school and work,” says Professor McGorry.

To date Docklands has attracted significant investment and the location of choice for some of Australia’s biggest corporations including ANZ, AMP, Myer, Medibank, Channels Seven and Nine, and Marsh Mercer among notable others. “This building provides another gateway for visitors, residents and workers, as well as a vital link between the edge of the CBD and the water. It demonstrates corporate and environmental sustainability and also enhances the area as a prime destination in which to work and live and to visit.” NAB has 10,500 staff in Docklands at its 700 and 800 Bourke Street locations, and in a further display of commitment to the precinct, has

Suit Up and Ride Thursday 5th December, 12 to 2pm Alexandra Gardens, Melbourne Visit www.suitupandride.com.au to register a team.

recently extended its long-term lease for another decade at 800 Bourke Street. As one of Australia’s largest urban renewal projects, Docklands is of vast economic significance to Victoria, both as a central economic precinct and residential destination. “By the end of this year, Docklands will have attracted a total of $8.8 billion in private sector investment with significant flow on benefits to the Victorian economy.” Concluded Minister Guy. Upon completion Docklands is expected to have attracted in excess of $17.5 billion of private investment and be home to an estimated 20,000 residents, 60,000 workers and millions of visitors annually.



Leading on the edge

Leading on the Edge LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP FROM THE WORLD’S MOST EXTREME WORKPLACE Interview by Lisa Quittner

Leading a team of 18 strangers in the wilderness of Antarctica for one whole year through nine months of darkness with no escape from the cold, howling winds or each other, is arguably the toughest professional and personal challenge anyone could face. Rachael Robertson took on this mammoth task, having responded to a newspaper advertisement, and became one of the youngest ever expedition leaders and the second female to lead a group to Davis Station. In her new book, “Leading on the Edge,” Rachael shares some of the most powerful and practical leadership insights from time spent in the world’s most extreme workplace.

magmedia.com.au

24

Now an esteemed international speaker and business leader, Rachael has consulted into major brands like NAB, IBM, Westpac, Myer, Australia Post and GE to share her leadership experience and provide solutions to workplace challenges. 3000Melbourne delved deeper into this remarkable woman and her lessons for effective leadership.

Where were you personally and emotionally in your life when you

decided to answer the newspaper ad to lead the expedition to Davis Station in Antarctica for 12 months? I had a fantastic job as Chief Ranger of the Great Ocean Road, leading a team of 54 people who managed some spectacular places such as the 12 Apostle’s. The ad intrigued me because they were recruiting for leadership ability, not technical knowledge of Antarctica. That was something new to me. I was 35 years old, single, and I figured I’d rather regret what I did, than regret what I didn’t do… so I applied and got the job.

Did you find it difficult to assert your leadership with 18 total strangers in the wilderness of Antarctica at first? The Australian Antarctic Division has an extremely comprehensive

recruitment process with a 24 hr selection centre for the trades and engineering shortlisted applicants and a week long boot camp for the leader role. It means they can single out any problematic people. So we didn’t have many issues with people questioning authority, or sexism or racism. It wasn’t luck but rather good design. My team was confident with my leadership ability and as we got to know each other through the months of pre-departure training they realised I would try to always lead with consistency, transparency and respect. Learning all the Antarctic-specific skills like riding a Quad bike, loading a crane and understanding the obligations of the Antarctic treaty was much more difficult, as it was so far removed from my previous roles.

Under the extreme circumstances you were under, what key elements for being an effective leader did you realise you needed to implement quickly and what myths about being a leader were just as quickly debunked?


Myth debunked:

1. M anage your Bacon Wars – A major dispute once threatened to shut down the station: Should the bacon be soft or crispy? Every workplace has their Bacon Wars. They are seemingly small, irrelevant issues that grate on people but build up until they become distractions and affect productivity. It may be dirty coffee cups; people who are consistently late for meetings; people playing on phones while someone is presenting…they appear to be small offences but in reality they are usually a symptom of a deeper issue.

Being an inspiring leader isn’t about charisma or personality, you don’t need to be a huge extrovert.

Leaders must identify and probe their Bacon Wars. Find out what’s underneath and resolve it. For us, it turned out the Bacon War was a manifestation of something deep and important: respect between two teams. 2. C heck-in on people – It’s really important for leaders to check-in on people and ask ‘are you ok?’ People want to feel valued and to do that you need to show that you care about their well-being, so if you notice they’re not themselves then simply ask ‘are you ok?’ 3. Find a reason to celebrate. Every job has an Antarctic winter where work is just work, especially with projects that have long lead times. Leaders can’t wait until the end to celebrate, they need to create moments along the way. These moments build momentum. We celebrated 100 days without a power blackout, 50 days without the server dropping out. They were small but significant milestones and by recognising them we created the sense that we were moving forward, things were happening.

The feedback on my performance was that I was “inspiring”, when I asked ‘why?’ I was told it was the small moments – I remembered the names of all 120 people who were at my station over Summer, one person mentioned their child had a school concert back at home and the next day I asked him ”how did the concert go?” No one mentioned the fact I worked 16hour days in Summer, or how I handled the search-and-rescue following the plane crash we had in December, or that I changed several policies to ensure greater transparency. They all simply mentioned the moments – because we don’t remember what people say or what they do… we remember the way they make us feel. That is what inspired my team.

How important is the skill of mediation between varying personalities when leading a group, especially under extreme conditions? I had a very diverse team and none of us had met before, I didn’t recruit the team either. We were living on top of each other, with little privacy so the possibility of conflict was high. To mitigate this we had “No Triangles” - the practise of only having direct conversations. This built respect within my team and resulted in very high performance. We had a simple rule that went ‘I don’t speak to you about him, or you don’t speak to me about her.’ No Triangles, go direct to the source. It’s a powerful tool that reduces conflict and clarifies accountability. For leaders it also ensures your time is spent dealing with issues that matter. Those have the most impact

Leading on the edge

Key elements:

on the organisation, not handling personal disputes that simply burn energy. It also shuts down “answer shopping”, people who keep asking the same question and go over people’s heads, or around people, until they get the answer they want.

How did you cope throughout the 12 months and how did you keep up the motivation to lead and maintain your own wellbeing both mentally and physically as well as that of your team? I became great friends with the Station Leader at Mawson Station. Even though we couldn’t see each other we could speak on the phone. Having a peer I could speak Rachael Robertson to who understood my job, knew the leader how do you encourage other challenges and business leaders to keep on track the culture, and could provide and move forward in ever-changing an idea or two was critical. This economic and political climates? peer support kept me going. I also kept a journal that I wrote in every night. It was cathartic and meant I slept better as I wasn’t lying awake with thoughts turning around in my head. This built my resilience. It also made me a better leader as I was able to reflect on my own performance every day and establish what I had done that worked and what decisions I’d made that I should review.

Leadership is any sense is fraught with challenges, as an international public speaker and business

The secret is to always remember it’s better to regret what you did, than regret what you didn’t do. When I started my business it was a huge leap of faith, but I would rather have done it and failed than look back in 10, 15 years from now and wonder ‘what if?’

Rachael Robertson is the author of “Leading on the Edge” published by Wiley and available in bookstores across the country and through Rachael’s website www.rachaelrobertson.com.au.

NOVEMBEr 2013

25


Unwind

SANTA’S MAGICAL

KINGDOM Santa’s Magical Kingdom, in collaboration with Santa Claus North Pole Co-operation have signed an exclusive deal to once again bring all the magic of Christmas to Melbourne in 2013.

After a very successful event in 2012, visited by over 80,000 people from around Australia, Santa’s Magical Kingdom returns to Melbourne bringing all the wonder and joy of a traditional Christmas. An interactive walk-through is an enchanting experience that includes everything that children big and small, young and old love about Christmas. See the magic of Christmas come to life!

Open to the public from 15 November to 23 December, Santa’s Magical Kingdom will deliver a Christmas wonderland full of activities that will capture the imagination of children & parents alike. “We are extremely excited about bringing Santa’s Magical Kingdom again to Melbourne this Christmas. It was a truly magical experience in 2012 for young and old. The demand has been extremely strong, and we want to continue amazing everyone, by growing this spectacular Christmas event," commented Keith Brown, Production Director of Santa’s Magical Kingdom.

Santa’s Magical Kingdom Includes: • A magical Christmas walkthrough wonderland • Snow Land where artificial snow falls! • Meetings with Santa and a gift to receive! • Amusement Rides and Sideshow Games • Roving Christmas characters • A Christmas craft area where you can decorate your own gingerbread man and Christmas sand art. • Interactive story reading with Mrs Claus • A chance to write your letter to Santa and send it to the North Pole Melbourne, get ready to see the magic, at Santa's Magical Kingdom!

It’s Celebrating season in ‘The Den’ magmedia.com.au

26

Epitomizing old-world-charm, The Den Basement Cocktail Bar’s sense of extravagance and luxury is everywhere, from its stunning mirrored bar and cosy nooks, to its grand piano, rare liquor collection and delicious seasonal cocktail list. Located underneath premier seafood restaurant

3000Melbourne Magazine is proud to share some early Christmas cheer with four family passes to giveaway for the 10am session on November 16. Email your details to editor@magmedia. com.au for your chance to win. Santa’s Magical Kingdom 15 November 2013 – 23 December 2013 Burnley Oval, Swan Street, Richmond Tickets available through Ticketek - door sales also available Further information: www.santasmagicalkingdom.com.au

The Atlantic, The Den’s lavish atmosphere makes the perfect setting for corporate Christmas functions and pre-dinner drinks. Cocktail-style food packages tailor-made by Chef Donovan Cooke are also available as well as customized beverage and entertainment options for up to 120 guests. Christmas is on its way, secure your festive season booking with The Den’s event’s team on 9698 8888 or email reservations@theatlantic.com.au


Celebrating years!

75

The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) will open the MCG for all to enjoy, in celebration of club’s 175th anniversary. A free event, the public will be able to gain rare access to the playing surface and see parts of the stadium and the MCC Reserve that are normally off limits. MCG Open Day provides a great opportunity to join the MCC in celebrating this rare and wonderful achievement and gain insight into Australia’s largest and oldest sporting club and the worldclass stadium that it manages. Highlights of the day include: • Relive your favourite sporting moments on the hallowed turf of the MCG with kick-to-kick with family and friends. • Have your photo taken on the AFL premiership dais with the 2013 replica premiership cup.

• Pick up a map and show bag and take a tour through the MCC Reserve, player change rooms and National Sports Museum. • Challenge yourself on the AFL Playground.

In the event of inclement weather access to the arena may be cancelled at the manager’s discretion. Please note also that showbags are limited to the first 3000 visitors to open day.

• Sit back and enjoy roving entertainment from the comfort of the MCC’s Hugh Trumble Cafe, Tower 6, Stumps Bar and Paddock Café.

MCG Open Day Sunday 17 November - 10am – 4pm Access via Gate 2 (Members’ entrance) & Gate 3 (National Sports Museum entrance). Free event!

UnWIND

MCG Open Day

• Meet some of your favourite sporting stars. • Win prizes and collect goodies throughout the day. Don’t forget to bring along your own footy for the kick-to-kick action or you can buy one at the MCG Superstore but leave the footy boots at home as they can’t be worn on the arena.

SINCE 2003

NOVEMBEr 2013

27


3000 WELLBEING

Being Your Own Hero

By Dana Atkin - Professional Kinesiology Practitioner When I grow up, I want to be my own hero, with amazing superpowers. And a cape.

Actually, most of the time I am my own hero with superpowers (no cape yet). Sometimes though, I forget that I can be my own hero. Sometimes it’s because life happens and pulls my focus away from my own hero abilities. Sometimes, I get so caught up in helping my clients and the people around me that I forget to look after myself in the ways I know I can. Sometimes I choose other people to be my hero and sometimes, I just forget. That’s okay because underneath the cape, we’re all human. What if I told you that each person can choose to be their own hero? What if I told you that every one of us has a superpower to go with our personal hero status too?

What if I told you that this superpower was available to you right now and you could use it to make your life happier, healthier and more fulfilling? We all have this superpower. It comes standard with being your own hero. But like being your own hero, this superpower gets forgotten, it gets buried under the “must do’s”, under the “have to’s” and all of the “should’s”. It gets cast aside almost too easily and sometimes, we don’t use it as well as we could yet, it’s the single most powerful superpower any human can ever have. This power needs to be harnessed and utilised in the right way for us as individuals in order for it to have a positive influence over our lives. I am talking about CHOICE. Everyone has the power to choose. What to wear today, which way to go to work, what to have for lunch and the list goes on. We also have the power to choose what kind of life we want, what career we would like and how we

respond to what life sends our way. Not choosing is also a choice. If you let “life” or “destiny” or other people to make the choice for you then how empowered do you feel? My guess is, not very empowered at all. You’ll start to feel like life is just happening to you and that you’re not actually living it. So how do you become your own hero? We start by harnessing our own superpower. Start by practicing with the “small” stuff. 1. What do you want to do this weekend? Choose something (note: “I don’t know, whatever” = choosing to do nothing).

1. What do you want to be when you grow up? Choose a path that you want to follow. 2. How do you want to get on that path? How you get there is completely up to you (note I was in my very late twenties when I chose what I wanted to be when I grew up – it is never too late to change paths). We make choices every day yet somehow we don’t always value them as highly as we could or we don’t give them conscious thought. You can make choices that lead you to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life – you can be your own hero and save your own world. You can even wear a cape if you choose to.

2. Where do you want to go for dinner Friday night? C hoose a restaurant.

Dana Atkin is a Professional Kinesiology Practitioner located in Melbourne city and a regular 3000 Melbourne contributing writer.

3. What do you want to do while you’re on holiday? Choose an activity.

To ask Dana a question or to make an appointment contact:

And when you’re ready, start looking at some bigger items such as:

Melbourne Natural Wellness (03) 9662 1311 dana@mnwc.com.au

Smelling the flowers in spring

magmedia.com.au

28

Tahlia is a writer, columnist and therapist, see more of Tahlia’s work and join the conversation at www.theparentingfiles.com.au

By Tahlia Mandie – Psychotherapist & Family Counsellor

planted all those beautiful flower bulbs to avoid my garden being totally lifeless.

I love spring. I love everything about spring and there always seems to be this big lead up to spring; bulbs and veggies planted in winter, hats prepared and made, flowers beginning to bloom. It is like we have been living in a cave and then all of a sudden there is light in spring.

No. Not me!

Bam! Colour! And because I love spring so much, you would think I would have

I am one of those spring lovers that saddle on the back of everyone else's hard work and maintenance. I buy everything already done for me. In all seriousness, I have no time to care for those bulbs that need tender care through winter. And so, I got to thinking of what other items and life situations I saddle back

onto? Instant coffee, instant take-away food, or the pre marinated fillet steaks that I simply take out of the freezer and put in the pan. Simple. Simple short cuts and simple steps I take so I can actually smell the flowers in spring, as opposed to mending their broken stems that were uncared for by the tired old person that I am. Those five pots for $10 are the best thing ever in spring. That's not so bad, right?


3000 wellbeing

Indigestion?

It might be your heart By Greg Shoemark A few hours after I had an arterial stent installed, one of the nurses told me a joke about mistaking angina for indigestion: “How did the cardiologist know he was having chest pains? He ran out of antacids.” If someone had told me that joke two months earlier, I might have had the stent sooner. Luckily, when I saw my doctor about my indigestion, she thought it more likely my heart than my stomach. Within just a week, her suspicions had been confirmed and a stent installed. Thanks to my GP and the various medical specialists and technicians who took up the case, I’m here to tell the story. Only two things really matter in this story: the diagnosis and the solution. First things first: if you have indigestion that seems to be brought on by exertion, tell your doctor pronto, as you might be heading for a heart attack. The second bit is the good news – the solution is surprisingly quick and easy. So how come we don’t see TV commercials saying your next heart attack might feel like indigestion, even though doctors will pick it in a flash? Because every heart attack is different, and you simply can’t cover every possibility in a public health campaign. You won’t figure it out online either. “Dr Google” is not in the hunt with a good GP who has at least six years of study and training, let alone your

cardiologists, with at least 12 years of hard, grinding study. Anyone who thinks a few hours online is “research” should think again before opting for self-diagnosis. A little learning can be a dangerous thing and it would be wrong to think this story is definitive either. It is only a cautionary tale, because it’s all too easy to mistake a heart problem for something else. A friend who went to casualty for a painful shoulder was surprised when he had a heart attack a few minutes later. In my coronary ward, the man in the next bed also thought he had indigestion, and a friend who had a triple bypass was so sure it was indigestion, he could even tell you the sandwich that caused it. So, with an absolute disclaimer on the record, here’s one man’s experience of “indigestion” that wasn’t. When the “indigestion” hit, I was under a bit of work stress, and joked that my stomach must have known I was stressed, even if I didn’t. It felt like raw acid roaring up my oesophagus, along with cold sweats, shivers and faintness. But if I stopped for a minute or two, relaxed and breathed through it, I was OK, and I just carried Gaviscon tablets. It sounds absurd now that I could dismiss it so easily. Once the stress eased off, it all faded away ... but then I noticed the heartburn would come back, albeit faintly, after a kilometre or so of brisk walking, and I’d have to stop and catch my breath. After a few weeks, I’d had enough, and called my doctor.

Things moved pretty quickly after that. First thing Monday morning, I told my GP about my indigestion. When I mentioned that it tended to be brought on by exertion, she said she’d like me to have a stress ECG as soon as I possibly could. Just in case, she also wrote me a script for the indigestion.

Before

Tuesday morning, stress test on the treadmill, then the cardiologist, who was confident I had angina. “Exactly what is angina?” I asked, realising it was one of those words we use without really knowing what they mean. She drew me a diagram and explained it was caused by a constricted coronary artery starving the heart muscle of blood flow. Friday afternoon, the angiogram revealed a 99% blockage in my right coronary artery. Monday was the angioplasty to install the stent, and Tuesday morning I was back at my desk, right as rain. Now, nearly three months later, I am still fine, and several people have remarked on how well I look (so I must have been a bit wan before, just not enough for comment). It was all so uneventful, it’s quite out of proportion to the fact that I was only 1% of an arterial blockage away from sudden death.

After

Which brings me back to those two points: if you have indigestion that seems to be brought on by exertion, see your doctor; and then be glad there are doctors like my GP Vivienne and my cardiologists Sue-Ling and Chris. They will save your life.

Greg Shoemark is a journalist and Director of Shoemark & King providing PR and communication services. Visit shoemarkandking.com.au for further information

NOVEMBEr 2013

29


3000 WELLBEING

PICTURE THIS…

Beautiful Gardens - traditional & wild Botanic Wonders…Spring at its Best!

Beth McAnoy - Iris Germanica

magmedia.com.au

30

Marion Chapman - Kitchen Garden

Jo Reitze - Cloudehill in Summer

The third in a new and exciting program of exhibitions presented at the Domain House Gallery during 2013, the PICTURE THIS… exhibition presents outstanding artworks of 14 Victorian Artists whose understanding and love of gardens and plants permeates their artistic achievements. This innovative project encouraging plant conservation and sustainability is proudly presented by OzLink Entertainment in association with the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

art begins with the careful study of plants. Accurate botanical information and tremendous attention to relevant botanical details is wedded with artistic expression in a wide range of styles. Even a fairly small drawing or painting can easily take more than 50 hours to complete, a meditative process that creates a special relationship between the artist and subject.

Botanic Artist, Stephanie Goss presents appealing Figs on branch, Crab Apples & Quinces along with her contemporary Moroccan Pears. “The richness I achieve comes from Nature, Beth McAnoy’s the source of my inspiration. I perhaps owe having become a painter to flowers.” Iris, Hydrangea, - Claude Monet Cyclamen & Rhododendron The GARDENS exploding from the watercolours are a true delight canvases, include both traditional to the eye while the impressive and wild spaces, capturing the and fascinating detail in Heather enchantments in a very private Simkin’s Eremophila, Mangrove garden to those of a very public park. Bud, Grevillea Longistyla and Allium From public gardens is Jan Martin’s Sativum are indeed, remarkable. exquisite series of Monet’s Garden The viewer cannot help but admire paintings (painted ‘en-plein air’ in Silvi Glattauer’s technique using Giverney); Cloudehill Gardens, Olinda, Photopolymer Gravure and Pigmented as colourfully captured by Jo Reitze, ink on cotton rag to produce her a specialist painter of gardens; shimmering prints entitled Hydrangeo, Kamesburgh Gardens, Brighton, Fuego & Sombras II and Vida Pearson’s whimsically represented by Jane superb hand-coloured linocuts are Walker and Matisse’s lovely Garden, simply magical artworks featuring Vence, portrayed by Margaret Gurney. her Waratah, Large-fruited Mallee The Kitchen Garden, Kate’s Garden & & Macrocarpa I & II images. Tea in the Garden by Marion Chapman “ A garden is a friend you can along with Carmel’s Garden and a visit any time.” - Anon Cottage Garden by Margaret Cowling and Angela Abbott’s Lily Pond & Strelizlas images, charmingly bring private garden spaces to life.

PICTURE THIS…Beautiful Gardens - traditional & wild Botanic Wonders…Spring at its Best!

The ‘wilder’ garden is fetchingly depicted in Delwyn Lane’s A Sheltered Nook & Garden Companions and Maggie Chiara Cowling’s Dargo & creek watercolours.

November 7 - 24, 2013 Domain House Gallery, Dallas Brooks Drive, Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne Gallery Hours: Thursdays 12 noon – 8pm /Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays 11 am – 5 pm - FREE

Botanic wonders are featured by three of Victoria’s top Botanic Artists whose contemporary approach to botanical


kitchen

3000's KITCHEN

3000’s

Chocolate Tart with ‘Caramelicious’ Salted Caramel & Chocolate Ganache In celebration of the Paris to Provence French Festival indulge your gastronomic sweet senses with this delightfully delicious French dessert.

INGREDIENTS:

Paris to Provence Festival The Crème de la crème of France Returning bigger than ever for the fourth year running, the extravagant Paris to Provence French Festival returns to Melbourne this November. Reminiscent of a French market village, the gardens of Como house will be lined with enchanting white marquees of 70 French retailers and producers – bursting with Melbourne’s finest mouth-watering French inspired food, wine, fashion, books, music, children’s clothing and toys, classes and home décor. Bring along a picnic rug and take in the sights and sounds of these historic grounds in the warm spring air. Play a friendly game of petanque, laugh at the roaming French characters or be serenaded as the beautiful voices of French singing trio Les Mademoiselles drift through the gardens. For families, the whimsically designed children’s courtyard allows ‘les petits’ to transform into little Picassos, painting on scattered easels. This delightful children’s area will see the return of free art classes with Petit Atelier.

The piece de resistance will be Marie Antoinette’s LET THEM EAT CAKE! competition where one lucky winner and a guest, will be transported to Paris with return tickets flying Qatar Airways. The grand prize also includes lunch and macaroons at the famous Laduree on the Champs Elysees, following on with a TGV rail pass to explore France. To win, festival visitors need to vote for the most delicious looking cake from the 20 amateur bakers. Amateur bakers should register their interest without delay to be featured in the competition. For those wishing to hone their cooking skills, intimate master classes of eight will run while crowds of up to 100 will be catered for in the Chefs Garden Marquee as Jane Webster will be headlining amongst a selection of other handpicked Chef’s (Caramelicious, Spirits of France and Choukette) in free cooking demo’s.

Chocolate Short Pastry: 210g butter, unsalted 120g caster sugar 30g egg 270g biscuit flour 30g cocoa powder Vanilla to taste Caramel: Half a 280g jar of ‘Caramelicious’ Salted Butter Cocoa Chocolate Ganache: 200g dark chocolate, chopped 50g butter, unsalted 120ml milk

TO MAKE: Step 1: Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

Place the dough between two sheets of baking paper. Start rolling it out from the centre out to get 3mm thick pastry.

When it’s ready place pastry sheet on top of your tart tin, make sure everything sits in nicely. Use the back of a knife to smooth out the edges.

Step 3: Place chocolate and butter on a bain-marie until it melts. Slowly add some of the milk in, mixing it through thoroughly each time. Take Poke a couple of holes in the centre with a folk and let it rest the tart out and pour all the melted chocolate onto it. in the fridge for 30 minutes Step 2: Place a sheet of baking paper on the pastry and fill it up with pie weights. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Once done, remove the weights and cook again for another 8-10 minutes. Let it cool.

Grab your salted caramel butter jar and spread all over the tart (as the tart is still warm it will heat up the caramel at the same time). Chill in the fridge until it sets, 15-30 minutes.

Step 4: Place it back in the fridge until you’re ready to serve and enjoy it. Give it at least 20 minutes!

Voila! c’est si bon! To purchase the Melbourne based ‘Caramelicious’ range of authentic products visit www.caramelicious.com.au

Paris to Provence French Festival Friday 22 Nov, 12pm – 8pm Saturday 23 Nov, 10am – 6pm Sunday 24 Nov, 10am – 4pm Como House & Gardens, South Yarra Further Info: www.paristoprovence.com.au

NOVEMBEr 2013

31


3000 WELLBEING

Miss Meaningful Column

Up-cycled Bags Many years ago, an innovative artist in Uganda created a handbag using old bottle tops on a wire basket. A fashion designer’s son was traveling in the area and noticed this bag. He decided it must be shared and brought it to his father’s fashion house in Europe. Through collaboration with the African craftsman, artists and designers this bag became one of Mulberry’s international bestsellers. Through this, they generated employment in Africa and raised vital funds to inspire grass roots education projects because of this success.

they raise funds and awareness for education projects that tackle delicate teenage health issues such as HIV/AIDS, drug abuse and teenage pregnancy. The Foundation supports over 35,000 young people each year through education projects in Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Brazil and the UK. Now available in Australia visit missmeaningful.com.au for more details.

Fast-forward to today and although the design has changed, the creativity and artistic collaboration continues. Bottletop bags are now made with up-cycled aluminium ring-pulls and intricate crocket to create high quality designer bags that are not only beautiful but also practical in their size and shape. The production now supports over 40 previously unemployed women and their families in Brazil. This ensures these female artisans are employed and given training programs so they can support themselves and their families into the future. Their care goes behind a fair wage and safe working conditions including life insurance, maternity cover and beyond. The sale of these bags funds the operation of the Bottletop Foundation. Using contemporary art and music,

magmedia.com.au

32

Janine Phillips aka Miss Meaningful is passionate about philanthropy and business with a love of combining the two living by the motto ‘one devoted person can initiate change’.

www.missmeaningful.com.au

Join ‘Pushy Women’ Funny women tour de suburbs

Never be caught dead in Lycra? Interested in an easy-riding feminist frolic through Melbourne's inner north? Then the Pushy Women are looking for you. This year, four of Melbourne’s leading, smart, sharp and hilarious and writers, thinkers and performers are leading literary and comedic two-wheeled tours, and are inviting women to join them for the ride. Held every second Sunday until 8 December, the Pushy Women Excursions will see Karen Pickering, Geraldine Hickey, Van Badham and Clementine Ford guide a woman's own two-wheeled adventure. Part performance, part observance, no parts endurance, the rides will bring together women in a unique setting to consider what it means to be a woman on wheels. The idea for the rides came off the back of the popular annual comedy event of the same name, chaired by comedienne and cycling enthusiast, Catherine Deveny. Dev plans to be on every ride “as a 'chaperone' just in case things get raucous". The Pushy Women rides are a social afternoon of riding for women, with a different host each week. Each ride starts and ends

at St Ali North, with a free coffee on arrival – the most civilised way to start any sort of exercise. Each ride will be run by Austcycle accredited trainers and supported by a volunteer group of bike buddies to support new or less confident riders. BYO bike, helmet, water & sunscreen. If you don't have a bike but would like to join the ride contact info@thesqueakywheel.com.au to organise a rental for the day. Sunday 10 November Geraldine Hickey Sunday 24 November Van Badham Sunday 8 December Clementine Ford Rides start at 2pm, and run for 2.5 hours - Bookings are essential. Meeting at St Ali North (on Capital City Trail) 815 Nicholson St, Fitzroy North Cost: $25 (includes free coffee at St Ali North) Bookings: www.thesqueakywheel.com.au For more information call Rachel on 0431 339 497 or rachel@rachelservice.com


The launch By Jane M Hutchinson Walking through the doors of the Melbourne State Library, Richard was compelled to look up and take in the aura of the majestic domes that housed all the great works. With Zara by his side, they walked through into the main room where the finishing touches were being made. “This all looks amazing. I’m sure Braxton will love it and that he will be here tonight,” said Zara. “And you too look amazing in that dress” said Richard as he placed his arm around her waist. “Of course he will be here tonight; he always loved a good party and especially one that is all about him! Braxton will definitely be watching over.” As the people started to arrive, a buzz slowly filled the vast space. In the sea of faces, Richard was surprised to see his ex-wife had turned up and was hovering awkwardly in the crowd. The MC started the proceedings and everyone moved into place. Taking to the podium Richard cleared his throat and paused for a moment. “Thank you all for coming tonight. It is with mixed emotions that I stand here.” With the intense lights shining on him, the beads of sweat began to trickle as the full attention and pressure of the room was now on Richard. “Sometime ago I was asked to write an autobiography ‘with a difference’ on Braxton Miles. On taking up this ‘job,’ I knew what a challenge this was going to be. I had been thrown into unearthing who really was the person behind the public face of Braxton Miles. I started by just meeting up with Braxton and having conversations with him. I recall

one of the first meetings in a café in Melbourne. There we were, I naively with the dictaphone on the table, only to soon realise this approach was not Braxton’s style and would not capture the essence of the man.” Glancing up from his notes, his caught the eyes of Braxton’s parents. Their pain and suffering was only merely masked by their warm smiles, as to lose both sons is a haunting scar that will never heal. Pushing that distraction aside, Richard continued to reflect on his memories and time with Braxton, “…..and I never thought I would be standing here today without him.” A heavy silence fell across the room. Richard had the all the words written down that he had spent hours, days working on, but as he said those words time just seemed to stop for a moment. “This is not a story just about a man whose last days were in Vegas, but a story about a man who had the conviction to sit with his fears. I believe his greatest fear was love, questioning what it actually was and what it all really meant for him in the big scheme of things.” Standing to the side listening on, Zara knew that Richard was referring to her relationship with Braxton and that he never had the courage to take that leap of faith with her. After all this time she still missed him, and hated that. “So this is and was the story of In conversation with Braxton Miles.” Like the story? Look out for the book 'In Conversation with Braxton Miles' Coming in 2014! All preceding chapters can be found on our MagMedia website www.magmedia.com.au within our past issues.

3000’s

Bookshelf

Book Review by Rebecca Howden 'Dear Life' by Alice Munro For decades, Alice Munro has been publishing collection after collection of beautiful, utterly masterful short stories. Often revolving around the lives of women in rural Canada, her fiction takes a close look at ordinary people dealing with beginnings, endings, confusions, frustrations and betrayals. Now, the 82-year-old writer has been recognised for her lifetime body of work with the 2013 Nobel Prize for Literature – the first Canadian winner and just the 13th woman to be awarded the prize in its 112-year history. Dear Life, her latest collection, is classic Munro. A suite of 14 fluid, empathetic stories about the moments when a life shifts or is shaped, this book is an engaging entry point for anyone wanting to delve into Munro’s oevre, and a beautiful capstone for those already well versed in her previous collections. Like much of her work, many of the stories in Dear Life take place in the rural towns around Lake Huron in Ontario around the time of the Second World War. The restless energy of smalltown life saturates the pages, and themes of aging and interrupted love take you deep into each richly-created world. Munro begins her stories in surprising places, often in the middle of action. Several stories in Dear Life open on trains, in moments of transition that often lead to confusing permutations

3000’S BOOKSHELF

In Conversation with Braxton Miles

of love, or not-quite-love. ‘Amundsen’, one of the most memorable pieces in the collection, begins with a young woman travelling out to a tuberculosis sanitarium, where she has taken a job as a teacher for the sick girls in the home. When she meets the austere medic in charge, it becomes a love story - but one that is strangely cold and full of tension, with a sense of loneliness heightened by the stark icy environment of the remote Northern Canadian town. In these deceptively simple narratives, it’s the small moments that devastate, that set lives on a different path from the one planned and make things unravel. In ‘Train’, a returning soldier leaps from the tracks close to his hometown where his lover is waiting for him, and starts walking in the opposite direction. In ‘Leaving Maverly’, a man is strangely shocked by the death of his terminally ill wife, though has been preparing for it for years: “He'd thought that it had happened long before… but it hadn't. Not until now. She had existed and now she did not." And in the astonishingly affecting ‘Gravel’, a woman remembers a moment of childhood play with her older sister at a gravel pit that leaves her haunted for life. The four final works of the book swerve in a different direction, away from pure fiction and into the murky waters of a creative memoir. Munro prefaces this section with a note saying that they “are not quite stories” because they are “autobiographical in feeling, though not, sometimes, in fact.” Beginning with the birth of her younger brother, ending with the funeral of her mother, Munro recalls moments of change, illness and death, all expressed with her characteristic blend of stoicism and warmth. These pieces are a treasure for those who have long-admired her work, offering a rare glimpse into the enigmatic writer’s inner world.

NOVEMBEr 2013

33


3000 URBAN

3000 URban

Surround yourself with ChocStars ChocStars are a family of nine, 100g milk chocolate bars that combine three of our greatest loves - celebrity, chocolate and pets! This novelty range is not just sweet but oh so tasty, a perfect gift or sweet indulgence!

Light Up your life Create an Atmosphere

RRP: $6.95 per bar Stockists in Melbourne: Prahran Convenience Store & via www.freckleberry.com.au

Munchstaches – The perfect Movember treat!

Nothing produces the same soft, warm and inviting antique glow of these large round reproduction Thomas Edison bulbs with vintage style exposed squirrel cage filaments. A stand-alone statement maker perfect for creating an intimate pool of light that is sure to be a talking point in any setting! RRP: $23.00 Stockist: www.FatShackVintage.com.au

Mustache-making cookie cutters create the perfect look. Try ‘em on for size, then eat ‘em! One side cuts the shape and the other side stamps the details. 5 assorted stamp/cutters are included in each set and are moulded from durable, food-safe plastics and packed in a reusable storage tray. RRP: $14.95 Stockist: www.yellowoctopus.com.au

‘Keep It Kool’ Stylish stubby holders Keep It Kool has re-invented this Australian lifestyle essential with a super modern and stylish twist just in time for the warmer months. With ‘celebration season’ around the corner, Keep It Kool designs are on trend, smart and stylish and come conveniently packaged in a set of four. RRP: $29.95 for a set of 4 Stockists: www.keepitkool.com.au

magmedia.com.au

34

Amalfi Swinging 60's Wall Plates Give your home or workplace that swinging 60’s look with a set of 18cm patterned wall plates available in red and white or blue and white. RRP: $29.00 Stockist: www.amalfihomewares.com.au



HBM 0476 3008 Docklands hlf pg 108x245 2 outlines.indd 1

22/04/13 12:13 PM


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.