3000 Melbourne Magazine ISSUE 88 April 2014

Comedy Carnivale

Miss Behave centre stage at

Fiona O’Loughlin’s brilliant career

H&M opens store at GPO

Studios celebrate decade at Docklands

Cool kids school holiday guide APRIL 2014

ISSUE

WONDERLAND

88

Making News

H&M opens first

Australian flagship store In what is sure to delight Melbourne’s fashion faithful, H&M opens its first Australian concept store at the GPO this month.

H&M, Hennes & Mauritz AB, the Swedish fashion retailer known internationally for fashion and quality at an affordable price will take up residence in the heart of the Bourke Street Mall.

With the refurbishment of one of Melbourne’s iconic heritage-listed buildings the Melbourne store will be one of H&M’s largest stores globally, spanning 5,000m2. H&M has embraced and restored the heritage GPO building to create a bespoke retail experience that promises to wow Melbourne.

Its strong architectural concept for the iconic façade and three-storey atrium will mix traditional, elegant and contemporary expressions while the interior will be modern and truly luxurious. Exciting elements feature a sense of fun and fashion while still coexisting harmoniously with the grand historical surrounds.

To celebrate H&M’s arrival, a specially designed Australia Collection will be launched at the opening. This limited edition capsule collection will feature exclusive apparel and accessories for men and women and will only be available at the new flagship store. Country manager for H&M Australia Hans Andersson said

the collection had been designed to complement the Australian lifestyle.

“Australia is a modern country and many Australians are well travelled, fashionminded and familiar with the H&M brand.

We wanted to make our launch into Australia special by creating this exclusive capsule collection which is unique to the Australian market,” Mr Andersson said.

As part of store opening celebrations, H&M collaborated with Melbourne’s RMIT fashion students to design an exclusive T-shirt to be offered to customers with any purchase on opening day. The store will also showcase apparel, underwear and accessories for men, women, kids and baby as well as H&M’s home concept.

H&M has expanded substantially in recent years with 2900 stores across 51 markets with a growth target to increase its number of stores by 10 to 15 percent per year. Retail asset manager of ISPT, which operates the GPO, Sam Curry said the arrival of H&M would be part of the revitalisation of Melbourne’s CBD retail precinct.

as a retail destination benefitting shoppers and other retailers alike.” The retail revitalisation of GPO will see all food retailers and a small number of existing specialty retailers remain trading within the centre and alongside H&M. Mr Curry said ISPT’s commitment to generating long-term value from its retail assets involved a continual assessment of each property. “Our decision to secure an international brand for GPO and a large format retailer that could optimise the unique heritage space will cement GPO as one of the most successful retail destinations in the country,” Mr Curry said.

ISPT began operating Melbourne GPO in April 2005 following the restoration of the much-loved historic postal hall and its reinvention as a unique retail and leisure destination featuring both Australian and international designer fashion.

In Melbourne, ISPT also owns Midtown Plaza and has announced plans for a $20 million refurbishment of The Strand arcade.

“We are delighted to have this opportunity to introduce such a famous and highly anticipated international fashion retailer to the Australian market,” Mr Curry said.

“The H&M flagship at GPO will truly differentiate the city of Melbourne APRIL 2014

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CONTENTS

publishers

But if you’ve had enough of shopping, don your new autumn wardrobe and head into the city after dark as the temperature r. starts to drop and the nights start earlie

Susan Riley {susanr@magmedia.com.au} William Rowe {williamr@magmedia.com.au}

editor

Each April roars of laughter can be heard at venues across our city as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival takes centre stage. The world’s best comedians along with all our homegrown heroes will once again make us laugh, cry and cringe.

Chelsea Arnold {editor@magmedia.com.au}

magazine enquiries {enquiries@magmedia.com.au}

design Susan de Kretser - Smith & Rowe {susandk@smithandrowe.com.au}

advertising Shane Bridges 0420 539 308 {advertise@magmedia.com.au}

cover image Miss Behave at Wonderland Spiegeltent.

Photo: Richard Haughton

contributing writers Tom Elliott, Andrew Hewison, Paul Maric, Dana Atkin, Suzana Talevski, Sophie Langley, Janine Phillips.

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 Chelsea at editor@magmedia.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 any material to Chelsea at editor@magmedia.com.au.

magmedia.com.au

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.

Editor's Letter I don’t know about you but last month left me exhausted. There were just so many events on in Melbourne.

I’ve only just packed away my new season’s purchases after the fashion festival. But while we’re talking fashion, one of the world’s most loved and affordable fashion labels opens its doors to shoppers in the heart of Melbourne this month. H&M has taken up residence at the Melbourne GPO and is certain to become a mainstay of Bourke Street.

This month I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with two of Australia’s favourite female stand up comedians.

The queen of comedy Fiona O’Loughlin shared her favourite stories with me and t into gives 3000 Melbourne readers an insigh ar some of the personal tales from her 15-ye career that she will share with audiences during the festival. She was just delightful and her joy for life right now is infectious.

This month also marks an important milestone for two prominent Melbourne entities. Docklands Studios Melbourne and the Business 3000+ Awards both . celebrate 10 years in operation this month l specia a got Also in this edition we’ve school holiday feature to give you ideas to keep the youngsters entertained over n the holidays. Now there will be no reaso for the kids to say they’re bored.

The 3000 Melbourne team hopes you enjoy this issue.

While relative newcomer, Melbourne’s own Anne Edmonds, is going to amuse audiences with her alter-ego, Eddo, who often gets herself into trouble.

My belly is still sore from laughing so much while chatting to these lovely ladies.

Chelsea Arnold editor@magmedia.com.au

IN THIS ISSUE 3 Fashion favourite at GPO

12 Free Wi-Fi in the city

6-7 Events this April

13 Business awards' anniversary

8-9 Melbourne International Comedy Festival

17-19 School holiday guide

11 Film studio marks 10 years

21 3000 Wheels

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Congratulations to the winners of our MARCH COmpetitions: • Lou Dibella • Lurline Hanna • Linda James • Rachelle King • Peter King • David Rosenberg • Marcus Rosenberg • Anthony Tsesmelis • Miranda Vuleta • Belinda Yim www.magmedia.com.au

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Wonderland Carnivale at the Spiegeltent t at Docklands will come alive and deligh audiences with premier international performers Miss Behave and Ian Bagg, local favourites Lehmo and Bev Killick plus an array of intriguing and wacky circus performers.

www.facebook.com/3000melbourne

19 Twitter.com/3000MelbMag

COVER STORY

There’s a bit of

misbehaving at the

comedy festival

BY CHELSEA ARNOLD For some, Miss Behave’s antics might be hard to swallow but the reality is she is one of the only female sword swallowers in the world.

And there’s no doubting that it takes a special kind of someone to swallow a two-foot Spanish court sword without even so much as a grimace.

This Mistress of Ceremonies commands a captivated audience in the intimate surrounds of the Wonderland Spiegeltent at Docklands as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. She invites you to revel in a showcase of premier local and international stand-up comedy alongside a feast of the weird, wonderful and intriguing world of circus superstars.

Miss Behave, the alter ego of UKborn Amy Saunders, could almost be Betty Boop’s naughty older

sister for she is dressed in head to toe red-PVC and teeters around on absurdly high heels while acting coy and toying with the audience.

The audience recoils in awe, or perhaps it’s horror, when she performs tricks involving a single long-stem rose and her tongue, but nothing compares to the gasps and squeals when she swallows a table leg, all the while keeping a glass and a bottle of wine safely in place atop the table.

The self-taught sword swallower has been surprising audiences worldwide with her gag-inducing performances for 13 years. But if you’re after gags of the more traditional variety then the Wonderland Spiegeltent’s comedy festival line-up presents local standup comedy favourites, Lehmo and the bold, brassy and delightfully naughty Bev Killick to name a few.

Joining them will be international comedian and carnivale headliner, Ian Bagg. Well known from his appearances on the Jay Leno Show, stalwart of the New York City Comic Strip and Montreal Comedy Festival, Bagg brings back his brilliantly sharp wit.

And if that’s not enough, Miss Behave is joined centre stage by acrobatic and juggling circus performers in the 1930s Belgium Salon De Elegance Wonderland Spiegeltent which continues

to emerge as one of Melbourne’s most spectacular old world enchantingly intimate live theatre venues.

Where: Wonderland Spiegeltent When: Until 19 April Time: 7.30pm Tickets: Full $35, concession $30.

Table and booth packages also available.

Bookings: 9602 1311 or www.wonderlandspiegeltent.com.au or ticketmaster.com.au

The Wonderland Carnivale Line-up 3-5 April

Bev Killick, Ian Bagg, Miss Behave and circus

10-12 & 17-19 April

Ian Bagg, Miss Behave and circus APRIL 2014

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r il When: 25 April, Dawn Service 6am March: Along St Kilda Rd 9am – 1pm for Commemorative Service at the Shrine Where: Shrine of Remembrance Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne Further Information: 9661 8100 or www.shrine.org.au

When: 9 May – 31 August.

Where: Level 3, The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square.

Tickets: Free.

9M u ay ~ 31 Aug

The Dawn Service is a major part of the tradition of ANZAC Day and harks back to the military practice of 'standing to' at dawn. Each dawn and dusk, the most favourable times for attack, soldiers were called to 'stand to' and manned their posts in full kit, ready to repulse enemy attacks or launch their own. Dawn Services are held across Australia, including Victoria's State service held at the Shrine, at 6.00am each April 25 and are followed by the ANZAC Day March in many cities and towns.

The March, led by veterans and serving personnel, now also includes the descendants of veterans, sometimes alongside their relatives but more often, as the men of the Second World War in particular pass on, in honour of those who served.

Fashion Detective takes a selection of miscellaneous garments and accessories as the starting point for a series of investigations. Using material evidence and commissioned fictions as alternate interpretative strategies, the exhibition is an encounter with the art of detection. From fakes and forgeries to poisonous dyes, concealed clues and mysterious marks to missing persons, Fashion Detective offers a number of cases for close examination. Each suggests a specific path of analysis that encourages us to think differently about what we see and what we know. Featuring approximately 60 garments and accessories Fashion Detective juxtaposes the testimony of curators, conservators and writers, and acknowledges the interdependence of story and object as well as the public fascination with the social life of clothes.

st

Free lunchbox session at The Hub at Docklands

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Anzac Day dawn service

Call the fashion police

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Antz get animated

The Hub is temporarily transforming into a mini-opera house to welcome award-winning soprano Alexandra Oke for a performance that is sure to provide you with a very dramatic lunchbreak. Oke graduated with a Graduate Diploma in Music (Voice) in 2013 from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. She currently studies with renowned soprano Rosamund Illing.

She has sung in chorus for Melbourne City Opera; chorus and semi-chorus for the Puccini Festival Australia; as well as performing chorus and roles with the Savoy Opera Company.

DreamWorks Animation's dazzling first completely computer animated film cleverly harnesses the neurotic persona of Woody Allen to tell the story of downtrodden worker ant Z (Allen), who volunteers to swap places with fearless soldier ant Weaver (Sylvester Stallone), landing the nervous insect in the middle of the termite wars.

Gene Hackman, Dan Aykroyd, Jennifer Lopez, Danny Glover, Christopher Walken and Ann Bancroft are among the many who contribute their voices.

When: Thursday 10 April 2014, 12.30 – 1.15pm Where: 80 Harbour Esplanade, corner Bourke Street and Harbour Esplanade.

Tickets: Entry is free.

Details: 8622 4822.

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Events

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When: 10.30am and 1pm April 5-7.

Where: ACMI Cinemas.

Cost: Full/Concession $7, ACMI member/ ACMI Film member $5.

Tickets: www.acmi.net.au

OUR NAME SAYS IT ALL!

MagMedia

Rea d al l abo ut it !

MagMedia presents a lineup of local magazines that bring the neighbourhood closer. magmedia.com.au

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We would like to introduce our Advertising Manager, SHANE: ADVERTISE@magmedia.com.au | 0420 539 308 And our Editor, CHELSEa: editor@magmedia.com.au | 0413 133 341

Swiss Festival 6

ril

Baby and toddler show

When: Friday 4 - Sunday 6 April 2014 Where: Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Time: 9.30am – 4.00pm daily Tickets: At the door: $20 Kids under 16: free

When: 11am 6 April Where: Queensbridge Square, Southbank Details: www.swissfestivalaustralia.com

ril 6 Ap

ril

Electric Run Melbourne

Take a visual journey into the heart of German cinema at the 13th annual Audi Festival of German films. More than 50 award-winning feature films, shorts and documentaries that showcase Germany’s multi-layered, vibrant and ever-evolving culture are showing now. This year’s program includes extraordinary dramas, thrillers, comedies, romances, westerns, historical epics, coming of age tales and horror movies.

When: On until 11 April.

Where: Palace Cinema Como & Kino Cinemas Details: www.goethe.de/ozfilmfest

Electric Run is the world's premier nighttime run/walk experience, where participants are part of the show.

Featuring immersive lands of light and sound that transports participants into an electric wonderland, Electric Run promises to transport the mind, body and soul. Participants are encouraged to join in on the art by lighting up with glow sticks, LEDs and anything else their imagination can conjure up.

When: 6.30pm 12 April Where: Flemington Racecourse Cost: $75 Tickets: www.neonrun.com.au

til Un

At The Baby & Toddler Show, you’ll find everything you need to get ready for your new arrival and guide you through the early weeks and years of parenting. Enjoy a day out with fabulous shopping, leading parenting experts offering advice on a range of topics, and entertainment for the whole family including live shows from Peppa Pig and meet and greet opportunities with her throughout the day.

It’s all there for you at The Baby & Toddler Show – part of your journey into the wonderful world of parenthood.

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Melbourne will come alive with the largest Swiss festival in Australia. The Swiss Festival will showcase the exquisite and unique Swiss culture with a program of activities including Swiss singing, dancing and Yodelling (a form of singing performed by quick alternation between the normal voice and falsetto) as well as the Guggemusig (carnival brass-band) and the Kiwi Yodellers from Auckland joining the festival for the first time.

Events

2014 Audi Festival of German films

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APRIL 2014

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Melbourne International Comedy Festival

MElbourne internati with her unique mix of stand-up, characters, physical comedy and power ballads about life disasters.

Eddo on show

“My shows are always full of energy and quite a bit of silliness,” Edmonds said.

“There’s tales about people I’ve met in Edinburgh and America, a song about boring people who sit in cafés, endless stories about my mother and a bad thing I did once with an ex-boyfriend.”

Edmonds burst onto the comedy scene in 2010 as a Raw Comedy national finalist and went on to be nominated for Best Emerging Comedy Talent at the Adelaide Fringe Festival.

By Chelsea Arnold Eddo is 35 years old. She’s still trying to work herself out but probably never will.

She gets drunk and does things she probably shouldn’t. But that’s what makes her funny.

Eddo is the alter-ego of Melbourneborn comedian Anne Edmonds, who in total contrast, seemingly has it all together. “I look at Eddo from the outside and am baffled by her actions,”

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Edmonds said. “I’m looking at myself from the outside and trying to work out why I’m on this earth. When I get ahead of myself it can turn into disaster.”

Edmonds is bringing her new show It’s Eddo! to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival this month. This will be Edmonds’ fifth year at the festival. “You’d think I’d be finished talking about myself by now.”

But clearly audiences delight in Edmonds’ style of storytelling

Nothing funny about motherhood

She has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe to critical acclaim and in 2013 was chosen from more than 1,500 entrants to perform in the 34th Seattle International Comedy Competition.

She returns to her hometown following hit shows in the New York Comedy Festival and appearances on ABC TV’s Wednesday Night Fever and It’s a Date.

“I first got into comedy seven years ago. But I guess, I could always make people laugh fairly easily. It’s the classic class clown kind of situation.

From delivery room to empty nest, comedian Denise Scott is ready to lay it all bare. There is no more venerated and vexed role than the role of mother.

Scott’s most ambitious show yet will bring together all of her stories on motherhood – both as a mother and as a daughter.

Mother Bare will take the highs and lows of her own experience of

“And I have always loved listening to people who are flawed and are happy to admit it. It’s ok not to be perfect. I love comedians who are a bit more risky.

There’s a lot of comedians who are so rehearsed. I like a vulnerability and I don’t mind seeing things go wrong.”

As for what Melbourne audiences can expect to see in her show, Edmonds is looking forward to telling one of her favourite stories about “as a 19-year-old a certain costume my mother sent me to a party in”.

“If they want to see an hour of funny then come along. They won’t learn anything though. I don’t have any wisdom to impart.”

Anne Edmonds - It’s Eddo!

When: Thursday, March 27 – Sunday, April 20 [excluding Mondays] 7.15pm nightly (6.15pm Sundays) Where: Melbourne Town Hall, Melbourne Tickets: Full $26.50, Conc $24 (conc) Bookings: www.ticketmaster.com.au

motherhood to create a hilarious and occasionally startling celebration of all things ‘mum’.

Denise Scott – Mother Bare When: Until 20 April Tickets: $30-$44.50.

Where: Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio.

Bookings: 1300 182 183

Fiona’s brilliant career

By Chelsea Arnold I am the least funny person I know. I am never the deliverer of witty oneliners, so imagine my surprise when the first thing I say to one of Australia’s queens of comedy elicits a laugh.

Maybe the joke was on me but one thing that’s not funny is how seriously good Fiona O’Loughlin’s career as a comedian has been. In the 15 years since she started telling jokes for a living she has headlined LA’s worldrenowned Improv Comedy Club, playing repeat seasons in Hong Kong, Edinburgh Fringe, Montreal’s invitation-only Just For Laughs and the UK’s oldest and highly respected Leicester Comedy Club.

She has also been a regular face on television shows such as Sunrise, Good News Week, Spicks and Specks, Talkin’ Bout Your Generation, The World’s Standup, Celebrity Apprentice and too many comedy festival galas to count.

She is a two-time Barry Award nominee, two-time Helpmann Award nominee and winner of the Piece of Wood Award.

But for someone with so many career wins under her belt it is surprising to learn it was never something she set out to do. “I kind of stumbled into comedy. I used to emcee local cabaret shows. One day the organiser came up to me and said ‘you’re doing standup. You have to apply for a grant’. So armed with $600 I caught the bus to Melbourne,” O’Loughlin said.

“I was hooked. Growing up, all my siblings were funny. There were seven of us and we were always making

each other laugh. Mum and dad were very social. So on the odd occasion we were having visitors I would listen to the stories. I had a rhythm for telling stories. In my 10-year-old head I would critique their storytelling. Everyone has something they’re good at.

“I was the first female comic in Papua New Guinea years and years ago. The audience was filled with politicians and businessmen and they were looking at me bemused. I had no idea why. But I found out afterwards that so much had been lost in translation in organising my appearance. They were expecting a stripper.

“I found my voice when I was 36 and I had finished having babies. I just like to tell true stories. I’ve got so many stories. One of my favourite stories that I like telling is when I was invited to the local pharmacist’s home for dinner.

We were newlyweds and I got my outfit from St Vinnies. But what I didn’t know was that the outfit I had bought was actually the chemist shop uniform.”

A lesser known fact about O’Loughlin is that she was a respite carer for many children in need. “It’s what I call the fostering period in the 90s.

We were respite carers.

Some children would be with us for one day, others for six months. It was such a lovely time in my life.

I remember never knowing peace like that in being able to help these children.”

In O’Loughlin’s new show for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, My brilliant career, audiences can expect to hear more hilariously unpredictable stories. O’Loughlin will even share a story with audiences that she’s never told before.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival

onal comedy festival stage because I thought it made me much funnier. The truth is, it didn’t.

“I’m much funnier now. And I know now that I’ve got enough in my bag of tricks not to ever need to do that again.

“To make it look effortless take so much effort. It’s a very tough game but I still pinch myself that I’m lucky enough to do this every day.”

“I am telling a story in this show that is very personal and private. To be honest, I think there’s something mentally wrong with me. But it’s strangely where I feel safe. That’s what I love about stand-up.

It’s just me and the audience. I love sharing. It’s the world according to me.”

O’Loughlin has won her welldocumented battle with alcoholism in recent years and said still fronting up and entertaining audiences during that time actually helped in her recovery.

“I have had to play a tricky dance. It was more therapeutic than I thought. I left the sads at home. It took 18 months but it was so liberating. Life is such a joy now and I’ll never look back.

I was in my late 30s when I began having a drink before I went on

Fiona O’Loughlin – My brilliant career When: Monday, 7 April and 14 April, Tuesday, 8-Saturday, 12 April Time: 8.15pm Mondays, 7pm all other days Where: Melbourne Town Hall, Melbourne Tickets: Full $31.50, Conc $26.50 [Mon, Wed & Thurs], Full $33, Conc $27.50 [Fri & Sat]

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NEIGHBOURHOOD

Hugh Laurie is in the house Beloved English actor Hugh Laurie is coming to Melbourne as part of a nationwide tour.

The actor, producer, writer, musician and composer is bringing his band, the Copper Bottom Band, for a series of live shows. Laurie will perform an eclectic mix of blues, tango, Southern and South American music, delivered with his inimitable, sharp British humour.

Laurie is best known and loved for his performance in the TV series House as Dr Gregory House, which earned him two Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards and six Emmy Award nominations.

"We're really excited to be coming to Australia to perform. The last time I was there was 1981, in a comedy show, and the world has changed a lot since then,” Laurie said. “I haven't though.

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I'm exactly the same. It's uncanny. Obviously, I'll be hoping to restore some national pride after the Ashes. If anyone throws anything at me, I’ll lob up an easy catch to the balcony.”

Laurie has gone on to enjoy a successful career playing the blues music he loves. Playing the piano since age six, he was hit hard by the blues bug after hearing a song by Willie Dixon on the radio. As a pianist and vocalist, Laurie teamed up with the Copper Bottom Band, releasing debut album Let Them Talk in 2011 and triumphant second album, Didn’t It Rain, in 2013.

Hugh Laurie – Copper Bottom Band When: Saturday, 19 April Where: Palais Theatre Tickets: Ticketmaster 136 100

NEIGHBOURHOOD

DECADE OF FILMING

AT DOCKLANDS Docklands Studios was large enough to accommodate the biggest miniseries in history The Pacific produced

by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg.

By Chelsea Arnold There is a little slice of Hollywood tucked away at Docklands.

In the 10 years since it opened, seven international films, eight Australian films, 120 hours of television drama, 650 hours of audience-based television programming, commercials and music videos have all been produced at Docklands Studios.

Hollywood stars Nicholas Cage, Robert deNiro, Clive Owen, Katie Holmes, Guy Pearce, Rachel Griffiths, Jane Turner and Gina Riley have all strutted the sound stages while on set of feature films at Docklands.

Chief Executive Officer Rod Allan said the appeal of Docklands Studios was

that it “is a facility that is available for all aspects of filming” plus it is located in such close proximity to the city.

“Docklands Studios is a successful addition to the Australian film and television landscape,” Mr Allan said.

“In the 10 years since it was established, international productions have made a direct investment in the local economy of about $1/2 billion. This is a substantial contribution to the domestic economy but wouldn’t have been possible if the studio wasn’t here.”

Docklands Studios was established in 2004 after the State Government identified a need for Victoria “to have a facility that would allow for international productions to be filmed here”. Previously named

Melbourne Central City Studios, the studio was developed as public-private partnership with the Victorian Government.

In 2008 the Victorian Government assumed ownership of the business and it now operates as a public sector body.

The studio, designed with filmmakers in mind, comprises five purpose-built sound stages, ranging in size from 743 square metres to 2,323 square metres.

All stages are fully soundproofed with industry-standard features and each has a dedicated production office.

The stages are supported by a large workshop divided into eight bays and supported by ancillary offices.

The studio lot has areas for parking and outdoor set construction.

The studio's list of credits include I Frankenstein, Knowing, Ghost Rider, The Eye Of The Storm, Kath and Kimderella, Hating Alison Ashley, television drama series Winners and Losers, As The Bell Rings, Satisfaction – Seasons 2 and 3 and variety television shows, Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation, Australia’s Got Talent, Iron Chef, The Footy Show and Millionaire Hot Seat.

“Australia is a desirable destination for international films. There’s always interest in Australia but the strong Australian dollar in the past few years has been working against us,” Mr Allan said.

But he is certain that international filmmakers will again head south, as Melbourne offered filmmakers premium studios plus close proximity to the CBD, plus a variety of locations for shooting, plus some of the world’s best cast and crews.

“Melbourne has always had a strong film and television industry and I don’t think that will ever change.”

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NEIGHBOURHOOD

Fast and free

wi-fi in the city Fast, reliable and free Wi-Fi services will be rolled-out across the central business district later this year.

The State Government has vowed to expand the service throughout the city around transport hubs and tourist attractions.

The move follows the successful trial of Wi-Fi service at Flinders Street Station.

Premier Denis Napthine said the public Wi-Fi initiative aimed to create a consistent Wi-Fi experience, expanding broadband connectivity to boost productivity, service delivery and quality of life for residents and visitors.

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It would also help draw more businesses and entrepreneurs to Victoria.

“As the first step, the initiative aims to pilot fast, reliable and free Wi-Fi services in central Melbourne, in and around publicly owned infrastructure, including public transport hubs and tourist attractions for the next three to five years,” Dr Napthine said.

“These networks will be delivered in partnership between the government, the City of Melbourne and the private sector.”

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said that as the economy changes from a traditional manufacturing base to a knowledge base, tools like Wi-Fi become critical.

“More free Wi-Fi in the city is great for residents, visitors and tourists,” he said.

The State Government has invited expressions of interest to deliver the service.

“We are encouraging innovative expressions of interest that will ensure a reliable, sustainable free service that is also filtered for prohibited and undesirable content,” Dr Napthine said.

“All responses will be assessed on their commercial viability with strong preference given to proposals where there is no ongoing cost to government, beyond any potential initial investment to establish the infrastructure.”

Expressions of interest are open until Thursday, April 17.

The government expects to award contracts in mid-2014.

This process is the first stage in a larger roll-out of public Wi-Fi.

The Business 3000+ Awards acknowledge the variety of small and medium size businesses that contribute to the commercial success and unique, vibrant fabric of the city.

Business 3000+ Awards Program Executive Officer John Stock said that “over the past decade, 50 diverse businesses from all market sectors have been recognised with a Business 3000+ Award”.

“The program annually recognises and celebrates the success of independent business in the City of Melbourne, who are contributing to the vibrancy and commercial success of our city.

“It is a successful platform that provides start-ups and small businesses with the opportunity to increase their business and showcase their achievements.”

For 2013 Business of the Year, Polaris Communications, the accolade was “a real help in promoting and increasing the Polaris brand”, Marketing Communications Manager Marina Domoney said.

“Another major benefit is Polaris’ newfound involvement with the Melbourne Business Network (MBN), the organiser of the Business 3000+ Awards. The MBN is providing the company with great networking opportunities within the Melbourne business community via its regular events,” Ms Domoney said.

Polaris Communications, is Australia’s leading supplier of telecommunications products to the contact centre industry and the general office market.

Polaris designs, manufactures and distributes headset products.

“The Polaris story is an inspirational one and a real Melbourne success story. It began 33 years ago with just one person, founder and managing director, Wayne Guest. The company has gone from strength to strength and single-handedly taken on the international giants of the headset world by

StarRez, founded in 1992, is the world leader in housing, conference, and judicial software with more than 350 customers worldwide. StarRez is a comprehensive student housing solution.

StarRez Chief Operating Officer Travis

In the business of awarding Melbourne’s best

developing the world’s only acoustically safe headset products.

“We are very proud of the fact that we have developed world-leading, state-ofthe-art headset products using the best all-Australian design team to research, develop and design our products. These organisations are all Melbourne-based.

We are very pleased that we have been able to do that locally and it’s a testament to the talent found here in our great city.”

Ms Domoney encouraged Melbourne businesses to get involved in the awards program.

“If you have a successful business that you are proud of and want to promote, why not nominate it for a business award?

In addition, being involved with Business 3000+ Awards enables you to network with other Melbourne businesses.

You can gain a lot of knowledge by networking with the right people as well as good business contacts.”

These are sentiments shared by 2012 Business of the Year, StarRez.

“We have been a proud Melbourne business for over 20 years and while we have never focused on accolades we have been encouraged by a range of people to start participating in these types of awards. We had been an active B3000 member for a number of years and are strong supporters of their mission.

BUSINESS

The endeavours and achievements of independent Melbourne businesses have been recognised and celebrated by the Business 3000+ Awards for the past 10 years.

“We would like thank the team at B3000 for their continued efforts to network and raise the profile of great local businesses that are delivering world-class products and services that might otherwise go unnoticed.”

This year, StarNet will sponsor an award in memory of company founder, “technology entrepreneur and pioneer” Alan Knipe.

The 2014 Business 3000+ Awards Program will begin in September.

Submissions close on October 31, with the awards ceremony in late November.

Companies can self-nominate or be nominated in the five award categories new business, international, innovation, social enterprise and sustainability.

For more information visit www.b3000.org.au

Knipe said businesses stood to benefit greatly from the awards program.

“We would encourage all Melbourne businesses to participate as a way to help increase their exposure, meet new contacts and reflect on their work,” he said.

Mr Knipe said the award was a boost to the team’s morale but that it also helped raise the company’s profile within the business community.

Business 3000+ 10th Anniversary Cocktail Party Melbourne businesses are invited to join City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, award winners and sponsors at the 10th anniversary of the Business 3000+ Awards program.

Special guest speaker will be prominent Australian businessman, Geoff Harris, co-founder of Flight Centre and Rebecca Scott, Chief Executive Officer of STREAT, winner of the 2013 Social Enterprise Award.

When: 6-8pm Thursday, May 8 Where: Melbourne Town Hall Tickets: $60 including canapes and drinks Bookings: www.b3000.org.au

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in business

How to grow in a stalled economy

By Marcus Moufarrige

Chief Operating Officer, Servcorp It will come as no surprise to many that Australia’s small business sector is currently growing at a snail’s pace.

To fix this situation we must take stock of what is holding businesses back and the support they can turn to in order to prosper.

We delved into these questions with our recent bi-annual Servcorp Australian Business Growth Monitor, a national study of 464 Australian companies.

We discovered that 56 per cent had failed to realise revenue growth in the past year, largely due to issues such as difficult market conditions and a reduction in consumer spending and customer budgets. Fortunately, many businesses are still forging ahead with their own plans for success, while calling on the government for additional support.

Investing in new industries Our research revealed that industries traditionally seen as cornerstones of Australia’s economy are struggling.

Looking ahead, more than half (54%) of those surveyed believe that manufacturing is on the decline, followed by mining (34%) and agriculture (30%).

A BMW for the weekend courtesy of Brighton BMW!

The newer industries expected to grow this year include healthcare (40%), professional services (36%) and construction (32%).

Gaining government support With little or no growth experienced by Australian companies since September’s Federal Election, the new government needs to make good on the promises it made if we’re going to get Australia’s businesses moving again.

NETWORKING

EVENT If you’re up for a night of learning, networking, canapés & drinks then you’ll love this Business Shorts event. Bring your cards and meet other business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals in a relaxed environment.

Come along and expand your network!

How to create a diamond business in 2014 Date: Thursday, 15 May 2014 Location: Servcorp, Level 2, Riverside Quay, 1 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank

Time: 5:30-7pm Price: $20 | inc. 2 drinks & canapés Speaker: Stefan Kazakis Info: Stefan Kazakis discusses the strategies of the 5 Cs as

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WIN

Rather than focusing on an ever-dwindling supply of jobs in these traditional industries, businesses are turning to opportunities in newer sectors to expand.

referred to in his latest book From Deadwood to Diamonds.

Clarity, Cut, Colour, Carat, Certification.

There are many different aspects to making sustainable profits, and your business must score well in all of them if it's to have a strong future. From Deadwood to Diamonds turns everyday businesses into profit machines.

RSVP: www.servcorpaunz.eventbrite.com “In Business” brought to you by

T: 9097 1617 W: servcorp.com.au linkedin.com/company/servcorp

More than half of the companies we spoke to felt that the government could make the biggest impact through reducing

taxes, followed by stimulating the economy (49%) and reducing regulation (36%).

While new governments do often take a while to find their feet during the first few months in office, we need to keep the government focused on stimulating and supporting Australian business growth.

To WIN this fantastic prize simply email SERVCORP with your name and full contact details to: melbourne@servcorp.com.au Draw closes Wednesday 30 April, 2014.

Winner will be drawn at random & notified by email.

LOCAL BUSINESS pROFILE Time in Melbourne CBD: 3 years

with fantastic customer service and a constantly disruptive approach.

What is your definition of success in Why Melbourne business: Looking at our client roster and appreciating the amazing brands, CBD: It is essential for us big and small, that we are privileged to put ourselves to work with. We are given rare insight into our clients’ goals and ambitions for in the same the future and never lose sight of how environment fortunate we are to represent them. as our clients and candidates Biggest mistake business owners can Michael Allen - Your business make: Getting so lost in the day-to-day Mars Partners they don't look up to ensure they are in a nutshell: still heading in the right direction.

International executive and Board search; Director Connections (a Board mentoring Biggest strength business owners programme developed by our business) can leverage: Again people; whether the business owners as A successful business needs: Drive, drivers or those around them who determination, a strong identity and help develop such great ideas. culture and a little bit of luck! You should also enjoy the journey.

What keeps you up at night?

Children and very little else!

Whose brain would you like to pick?

Jeff Bezos, Founder and CEO of Most surprising discovery since being Amazon, a remarkable business located in Melbourne CBD: Everything

is walkable but the trams are great.

What is your businesses mantra?

Dedicate the time to get to know your clients and candidates. It will repay you many times over.

Three attributes needed for success in business: Professionalism, perseverance and a sense of humour!

Words of advice: Don't sweat the small stuff.

What were the most important factors that contributed to your business success? Treating people with respect and delivering a high level of customer service to all our clients.

If you could do it again, what would you do differently? Invent Facebook.

Mars Partners L18, 101 Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000 9221 6151 Michael.allen@marspnrs.com www.marspnrs.com

PROPERTY / BUSINESS / FINANCE

Tom Elliott writes...

Higher interest rates loom for Australia their paper currency had greater value as a source of heat (ie they burnt it) rather than as a medium of exchange.

Like many Australians, I have a home mortgage that’s a little bigger than I’d like. Also like many other slaves to the banks, I’ve benefited from an extended period of low interest rates which have kept monthly repayments from cutting into the family budget.

Unfortunately, I think this benign period of low rates will soon come to an end.

One of the basic economic subjects all central bankers are taught is the need to keep inflation well under control.

When he was a schoolboy, current RBA head Glenn Stevens was undoubtedly shown pictures of Weimar-era Germany in which those workers lucky enough to have jobs were paid twice daily in order to stave off the effects of hyper inflation.

During this period, Germans often found

Such rapid rises in prices are what the RBA is supposed to avoid.

And the one tool it has to do this is interest rate increases.

For the past few years, Australian inflation has remained low, for two main reasons: First, the after effects of the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) have kept economic activity lower than would otherwise have been the case.

Second, the strength of the A$ against most other countries has kept local import prices way down.

Judging by recent American unemployment figures, memories of the GFC are finally starting to fade.

From its peak of almost 10% in 2009, the US jobless rate has now fallen to just 6.6%. Fairly soon it’s likely

that the Australian and American unemployment rates will cross over.

As to the A$, the glory days of it rampaging above the US$1.10 mark are now well and truly gone. Right now our dollar is trading just over US90c, and most forecasts see it going lower again in the next 12 to 18 months. While such a fall will be welcomed by what remains of our export sector, it could also cause local inflation to punch through the 3% per annum mark – and this is where the aforementioned Glenn Stevens will have his hands tied. A series of rate rises will be his most likely response.

If all this sounds a bit like economic gobbledygook, consider this: last month the New Zealand central bank lifted its official rate from 2.5% to 2.75%. And for reasons no one really understands, Australian rates have this weird habit of following their trans-Tasman counterparts. So we can’t say we weren’t warned...

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

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PROPERTY / BUSINESS / FINANCE

FORGET ABOUT THE U.S.

By Andrew Hewison

and American innovation.

Forget about the US. This was the statement made by well-known economist Jonathan Pain at a conference I attended some five years ago. Let’s be truthful, back then you couldn’t have blamed him.

China’s economy was growing in the mid-teens per annum and the US had just been held responsible for the biggest financial meltdown since the great depression in the 30s.

The US’s biggest issue in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis was their spiralling debt. Throughout last year we were exposed to their ongoing political ‘debt ceiling’ issues, however, the US budget deficit has shrunk from more than 10% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2009 to less than 3% of GDP this year. Through varied measures the US will make $US4 trillion in spending cuts over the next 10 years.

Pain was a strong advocate of the “de-coupling” of Australia’s economy away from the US. The old adage, “The US sneezes and Australia catches a cold” was dead. Instead, within a few years we would track China instead.

Some key facts to consider:

China is a powerhouse, make no mistake. If they sneeze, the US will catch a cold and we will contract the flu! Thankfully, although winter is on the horizon, China does not look like sneezing any time soon.

They continue to grow steadily at around 7% per annum.

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• It’s estimated that by 2020, the US will be the world’s largest oil producer.

• Due to lower energy costs, a declined USD and very low labour costs, manufacturing in the US is expanding. For example, Apple plans to bring some manufacturing home and Honda plans to build a super car on US soil.

The US have re-invented themselves, again.

• The bulk of new gadgets are developed in the US. Since 1975, only one Eurozone company joined the world’s top 500, whereas 26 have come from the US.

You have to hand it to them; they have a knack of doing so. The drivers of the recovery have been an energy boom, a manufacturing renaissance

• The strength of the US economy has strengthened the argument that the world’s global markets have entered a new secular bull market.

Growing safer communities together Join a winning team and start making your neighbourhood safer. Theft from motor vehicle crime is easy to reduce. Don’t advertise your valuables.

Chief Executive Officer of Neighbourhood Watch Victoria Gill Metz said that leaving valuables in plain sight in your car or truck is

an open invitation to thieves and is like advertising in neon lights.

“Don’t leave valuables in the car, take them with you or if you have to leave them in the vehicle, place them in the boot before you park your vehicle so thieves don’t see you putting them there,” she said.

If you would like to know more about crime prevention or if you are interested in being a volunteer or starting a Neighbourhood Watch group in your area, visit Neighbourhood Watch at www.nhw.com.au/ or on facebook or phone 9865 2968.

Then look no further than the Disney Fun Zone, a collection of free activities inspired by Disney’s most loved movies, at the Docklands’ Melbourne Star Observation Wheel.

Youngsters will love exploring a range of attractions from Disney’s family favourites: Disney-Pixar’s Cars, Toy Story, Monsters University and Disney Animation’s Planes and Frozen.

Highlights include Woody and Jessie’s Lasso Challenge, a life-sized replica of Lightning McQueen, bandit moustache and sheriff badge making at Woody’s workshop and a giant Monsters University maze.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FEATURE

A dose of Disney

Looking for something the kids will love these Easter holidays?

size replica of Lightning McQueen and Mack the Transporter with an added cinema zone.

In the Planes hangar dome, children can let their arts and crafts skills soar and play the latest Planes game on iPad. Then bounce as high as the sky in the Planes jumping castle.

If that’s not enough fun, children can sing their own rendition of 'Let It Go' from Disney's Frozen, in the Frozen marquee for their very own chance to appear as a favourite on the Disney Channel.

WHEN: 11am-4pm April 11-13 WHERE: Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands, Melbourne COST: Free

The all-new Disney-Pixar Cars Zone features a bouncy two-track giant inflatable slide and a revamped World Grand Prix Driver Training Track with trikes. Young Cars fans will be able to meet and take their photo next to the life-

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SCHOoL HOLIDAY FEATURE

Bag of tricks keeps

kids entertained Magic Tony and his menagerie of bunnies, flying doves and a guinea pig is bringing his never-ending bag of tricks to the Docklands these school holidays.

Magic Tony, resident magician on Channel 9’s Kids WB, is an alter ego of master magician Anthony De Masi, who has performed all over the world entertaining celebrities, international companies and cabaret festivals since 1995.

See the show then ride the Wacky Worm Roller Coaster, Crazy Wave, for thrill seekers The Drop Zone, Pirate Ship, Flying Dragon, Carousel and Dodgem Cars!

Where: Wonderland Fun Park, 120 Pearl River Road, Docklands.

When: 11-20 April Tickets: Show only: $10. Show and rides: $35 (excludes water ball and bungee trampolines - upgrades available on day) Kids’ combo: A show ticket, rides only wristband, water ball, bungee trampoline and a show bag: $50. Children under three do not require a ticket to the show or on the rides if they are accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket to the show or wristband for the rides.

Bookings: www.wonderlandfunpark.com.au

Run away with the circus

Nocturnal workshops Youngsters can join with artists Michael O'Dwyer, Emah Fox and Nilgun Guven to work with timbers gathered from all over Australia to craft a handmade box, which will house light and soundscapes.

ArtPlay’s Nocturnal Workshops will see children aged seven to 12 explore the Australian landscape by working with raw materials.

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Connect with your sense of listening as you observe and record the sounds around ArtPlay.

Then explore storytelling, expressing the places you enjoy most and why, and compose your own soundscape.

When: 10.30am-3.30pm Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April.

Where: ArtPlay, Birrarung Marr, Federation Square.

COST: $50.

Details: artplay@melbourne.vic.gov.au

Youngsters can run away with the circus for a truly cool school holiday experience.

Medibank Icehouse is hosting a circus skate-a-rama program offering a variety of fun and exciting familyfriendly activities for all ages.

Come and experience the joy of the circus with a performer juggling, walking on his hands through the skaters lounge, acrobatics and amazing strongman feats.

Or simply just skate under the big top to the DJ and the latest tunes and win prizes.

For a non-skating event, children can also take part in Wonderballz the craziest game of soccer ever.

All this plus free face painting, clown nose, beginner lessons at 11am, noon, 1pm and 2pm daily, figure skating demonstrations, and learn to skate backwards lessons.

There is also special ice fun for the under 8s. From 9-10am daily there are toys, games and music, plus snow play areas for your child to enjoy a totally different toddler experience.

When: 11am-3pm April 7-22.

Where: Medibank Icehouse, 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands.

Details: 1300 756 699.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FEATURE

Meet Melbourne’s coolest family these holidays Waddle into Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium’s Penguin Playground exhibit these school holidays and see the newest King penguin chicks before they’re all grown up.

Check out the fluffy youngsters including the eldest Nog, as they continue to test their happy feet, slipping and sliding among the rest of the penguin colony.

Dive in for cool presentations and plenty of penguin activities on offer throughout the entire school holidays including colouring-in and themed days.

For a closer look at the King penguin youngsters, get suited up in your Antarctic snow gear and discover Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium’s Penguin Passport experience, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the majestic King and cheeky Gentoo penguins. Visitors have the exclusive opportunity to huddle among the penguin population and watch them swim and play, as well as tour the food preparation and veterinary areas.

Aquarium, open to the public throughout the school holidays.

The Penguin Playground exhibit is just one of the 12 new zones of discovery at Sea Life Melbourne

Details: 9923 5999 or www.melbourneaquarium.com.au

Where: Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, corner King and Flinders streets, Melbourne.

When: Daily 9.30am-6pm, last admission 5pm.

Tickets: Family tickets from $86.40. Book online and save.

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NEIGHBOURHOOD

Smart phone payment

for city parking making a phone call,” Cr Oke said.

Carrying loose change for parking in the CBD could soon be a thing of the past, with pay-by-phone technology to be introduced as an alternative payment method.

The City of Melbourne awarded a $537,000, three-year tender to Database Consultants Australia (DCA) to roll out pay-by-phone parking in more than 12,000 fee-paying bays across the city.

Councillor Cathy Oke said mobile phones and smart phones were a part of modern life. “Pay-by-phone parking allows motorists to pay for parking by using a smartphone app or

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“Pay-by-phone parking is the way of the future. It removes the inconvenience of having to carry change to feed meters and ticket machines and will allow people to get an SMS reminder when their time is about to expire, reducing their chance of getting a fine for overstaying.

“Of course, there are also people who don’t carry a mobile phone or who simply prefer to pay for their parking with coins.

Anyone who wants to pay with cash will still be able to do so for any fee-paying parking space in the City of Melbourne.”

The move coincides with a reduction in the number of meters from 3800 to about 1000.

“Meters and ticket machines are expensive to maintain and susceptible to theft and vandalism,” Cr Oke said. “We will reduce the number of meters and ticket machines to about 1000 over the next five years.”

Men’s shed a first for Melbourne In a first for inner city residents in the CBD, Southbank and Docklands, the City of Melbourne has announced funding for a Men’s Shed.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle joined Minister for Community Services Mary Wooldridge to announce council and State Government funding for the project.

There has been a significant increase in parking meter vandalism in recent months, with more than 130 meters in Carlton alone tampered with in an attempt to steal coins. Cr Oke said that as pay-byphone parking was introduced, existing coin-only machines would be upgraded to modern meters that also accept credit cards using touch-and-go technology.

Motorists parking in bays where pay-byphone parking has been installed will be given the option to call a number or download a smart phone app to start and end a parking session. First time users will complete a short, once-off registration of their licence plate and credit card details.

To start a parking session motorists will be prompted to enter a zone number, which will be clearly displayed on signs and stickers, and confirm their licence plate number.

The City of Melbourne will contribute $160,000 over five years to the project, and the State Government has made a $60,000 contribution to capital works.

The Lord Mayor said the City of Melbourne will fully subsidise the approximately $23,000 per annum rental costs for the Melbourne Men’s Shed project for an initial period of five years, and will spend $45,000 to modify and fit out the space on the ground floor of the car park at Federation Square.

“This is an important project for our city community. Having a Men’s Shed at Federation Square, with easy access to public transport, is vital to ensuring inner-city men also have the

To end the session, motorists simply need to press a button on the smart phone app or quickly call the number again. This means people only pay for the time they have parked.

Calls will be charged at the standard rate to the customer and will vary depending on their mobile phone plan.

Users will have the chance to get a reminder when their time is almost up.

Motorists using pay-by-phone will no longer receive a ticket to display in their vehicle. Once a session has begun, parking officers will simply be able to scan the licence plate number with a handheld device and immediately identify whether a parking session is active and payment has been made.

Motorists will continue to receive a fiveminute grace period when they stay for the maximum permitted time limit.

opportunity to get their hands dirty.”

Councillor Beverley Pinder-Mortimer said the shed will be open to retirees, unemployed and socially disadvantaged people and those with a disability.

“The Men’s Shed is an important champion of men’s health and welfare and we are delighted to support the CBD initiative,” Cr Pinder-Mortimer said.

The shed will offer local men a place to repair toys for the Royal Children’s Hospital, help them to get information about a healthy lifestyle and take classes in a range of activities such as cooking, digital photography and woodworking.

3000 WHEELS

Motoring Review by Paul Maric Volkswagen Amarok Highline

mantra. There’s even a sensational stereo with Bluetooth connectivity to help with early morning traffic snarls.

With a sterling reputation, long history of reliability and many attempts at destruction on BBC television show Top Gear, giving the Toyota HiLux a run for its money was always going to be a difficult task.

In terms of functionality, the Amarok kicks serious goals in the towing and cargo departments. The 3000kg towing capacity and 960kg payload is further bolstered by the tray’s ability to carry a full sized palette (1200mm x 800mm), unlike some of its competitors.

Thankfully, Volkswagen went in guns blazing and launched the Amarok to the lucrative Australian market in early 2011. Fast-forward three years and the Amarok is now offered in a two-door and four-door variant and comes with the option of a six-speed manual or an eightspeed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Behind the wheel, power and torque is available in almost endless supplies thanks to the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. Producing 132kW of power and a huge 420Nm of torque, fuel economy is pushed down to a frugal 8.3L/100km with the eight-speed automatic gearbox.

From outside the Amarok looks aggressive and bestows an aptly rugged demeanour in traffic. Chrome sports bars, classy alloy wheels and a mammoth grille help the Amarok stand out from the pack.

Priced from $24,990, the Amarok Highline tested nudges the scales at $53,990. At this price, the market is full of equally impressive competition.

But, if your heart lies with ze Germans, the Amarok is impossible to overlook as a serious tradesman’s vehicle.

Inside the cabin it’s a similar story. A step up from terra firma lands you in the box seat with the help of a grab handle and low-slung seat. At almost two metres wide, the centre console is nearly big enough to house another seat.

Everything about the cabin sits right and fits the demographic. Simple controls, easy to read dials and durable plastics follow the cabin’s ‘less is more’

Paul Maric is a Melbourne based, independent motoring journalist & mechanical engineer.

Visit: paul.maric.id.au Follow Paul on Twitter: @PaulMaric

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3000 WELLBEING

Little kitchen touted to be big success A glamorous new roof-top bar and restaurant has opened at the Paris end of Collins Street.

Little Collins Street Kitchen and Terrace Bar have opened their doors at The Sheraton Melbourne Hotel. Little Collins St Kitchen is a 90-seat bistro-style restaurant.

Executive Chef, Kruno Velican’s philosophy will use wholesome and locally-sourced seasonal produce, and his French-inspired menus will change regularly to reflect this ethos. Highlights from the current menu include a farmhouse terrine served with pickles, pear and

mustard relish on toasted brioche, braised beef cheeks with red wine, prunes and Parisienne gnocchi and a delectable tarte tatin with grapefruit and orange sorbet to finish.

Terrace Bar on level three of the hotel offers an exquisite and contemporary designed outdoor setting with views overlooking Little Collins Street. Comfortable seating areas, outdoor fireplaces and carefully selected music will provide Melbourne’s newest rooftop bar with a vibrant ambience in which to enjoy Melbourne’s city skyline.

Pop-in to the pop-up next month

Queensland Investment Corporation, is earmarked for a significant redevelopment in the next two years.

In the meantime, QIC will bring together some of the city’s biggest hospitality names at a temporary food and wine hub housed in customised shipping containers.

It is believed exciting restaurateurs Chris Lucas and Salvatore Malatesta are among the names confirmed for the pop-up precinct.

Lucas, of Chin Chin, Baby and Richmond’s yet-to-open Korean barbecue house Kong, will open a scaled-down version of Kong.

Foodies are in for a treat with a pop-up dining precinct due to open next month.

Malatesta, who owns the St Ali cafes in South Melbourne and Brunswick, has also been touted as among the tenants.

The north-west corner of Collins and Exhibition streets, owned by

The pop-up precinct will be open daily for lunch and dinner.

Japanese cuisine

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Popular television host, restaurateur, author and chef Manu Feildel concedes many people are scared to cook French food. “Over the years it has come to my attention that many Australians are a little scared of French cookbooks. I hope I will change your mind,” Feildel said. In 3000’s Kitchen he shares his “mother’s favourite dessert crepe” from his latest book, French for Everyone.

Recipe from the book French for Everyone by Manu Feildel Published by Lantern, rrp $49.99.

Crepes with lemon sauce Serves 4

INGREDIENTS: 2 free-range eggs 3 teaspoons caster sugar 200 ml milk pinch salt 1/2 vanilla pod, halved lengthways, seeds scraped 125 g plain flour

2 teaspoons dark rum 25 g unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus extra for cooking Lemon sauce: 250ml cream 120g caster sugar 1/3 cup (80 ml) water finely shredded zest of 1 lemon, plus 2 1/2 tablespoons juice

3000’s kitchen

TO MAKE: 1. Place the eggs, sugar, milk, salt and vanilla seeds in a large bowl and whisk to combine. Whisking continuously, slowly add the flour, whisking until a smooth batter forms. Whisk in the rum and melted butter. Cover, then leave to rest at room temperature for 2 hours before cooking.

2. Heat a 20 cm heavy-based non-stick frying pan over medium heat, then add 1/2 teaspoon of the extra melted butter to coat the base of the pan. Add 50 ml of the crepe batter (slightly less than 1/4 cup), turning the pan to coat the base completely. Cook the batter

3000 WELLBEING

A taste of France at home

for 1 minute or until you see the edges of the crepe beginning to turn crisp, then use a spatula to loosen the crepe from the side to check it is golden underneath. Turn the crepe and cook for another 10–15 seconds. Transfer to a plate and keep warm. Repeat with more butter and the remaining crepe batter, stacking the crepes on top of each other as you go. (Makes 8 crepes) 3. For the lemon sauce, place the sugar and 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the water in a small heavy-based saucepan over medium–high heat and cook, swirling the pan occasionally, for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from the heat and add the lemon juice and remaining water, stirring with a wooden spoon until combined, then add the lemon zest.

4. Fold each crepe into quarters and drizzle with the lemon sauce. Serve.

GET MOVING - Walk or run for A GOOD CAUSE Inaugural Anzac Run Melbourne’s inaugural Anzac Run will take place on April 21.

The Anzac Run adds to the extensive list of running events that take place in Melbourne each year.

The commemorative run aims to foster and promote the values and ideals that lay at the core of the ANZAC tradition. It is a practical demonstration of the liberty and freedom that has been fought for over many years, often at great cost.

The Anzac Run has the support of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, the RSL and Legacy. Major General David McLachlan (Retired) State President

Victorian Branch RSL said the RSL in Victoria is pleased to endorse the inaugural ANZAC Run on 21 April.

greeted by Air force and Military bands, live music of the bygone era, food stalls, photo galleries, and a military display.

“It is a great way for us all to show our support for the members of our Defence Force and ex-service personnel and to remember those who fought so valiantly during the Great War,” he said. Anyone who can run or walk to participate in this historic event in the lead up to the Centenary of ANZAC in 2015.”

Anzac Run, 7am start, April 21 at Cobbers Statue, corner of St Kilda and Domain roads.

Participants will meet at Cobbers Statue, at the corner of St Kilda and Domain roads opposite the Shrine of Remembrance, at 7.30am.

The run concludes at Gosches Paddock, Olympic Boulevard, Melbourne at 9.30am where participants will be

Cost is $55. To register visit www.Anzacrun.com

Fun run fundraiser for the kids There’s still time to register to take part in one of the largest events on Melbourne’s running calendar.

The 2014 Herald Sun/CityLink Run for the Kids offers participants the chance to run, jog or walk the unique

15-kilometre course that gives participants the chance to run on normally off-limits roads include over Bolte Bridge and through the Domain Tunnel, or a shorter 5.5-kilometre course. A portion of all entry fees goes directly to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

When: Sunday, April 13 Where: Race starts in Kings Domain Registration: www.r4k.com.au Entry fee: $53 long course, $47 short course.

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3000 WELLBEING

Exercise at any time Everyone’s schedules these days are so busy that trying to find time to exercise can be difficult.

Not everyone can make it to the gym for group exercise classes or train for a first half marathon while juggling work, families and social commitments, not to mention fitting it all in while Melbourne’s unpredictable weather is favourable.

This is where the concept of 24-hour gyms is taking Melbourne by storm.

Anytime Fitness in South Melbourne is one of the latest gyms to open providing members with access to their state-of-the-art facilities 24 hours, seven days a week.

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The brand new two-storey facilities at Anytime Fitness South Melbourne opened its doors in February at 63-69 Market Street, South Melbourne, just off Clarendon Street. Owner Karolina Ljevak said that the club had been fitted out with state-of-the-art equipment that fitness enthusiasts have come to expect from leading gyms.

“Downstairs contains all our premium Life Fitness and Hammer Strength cardio and weight equipment. All our equipment is premium, top of the line,” she said. “One of the features of our cardio machines includes fully interactive screens which enable members to set their running course on a mountain range in Europe.

“Upstairs currently contains a large functional and stretch area. The functional area will be used to offer group training in the near future. We plan to introduce certain classes with the consultation of our members. If they would like to see a particular class offered we will take all suggestions on board. We want this club to be all about the members and meeting their needs.”

Karolina said that further plans to extend the range of services offered

by Anytime Fitness South Melbourne also included offering a personal training service to members.

“The beauty of our gym is that all our staff are super friendly and there is a

really supportive club culture without intimidation. We are always there to assist our members,” she said.

One of the added bonuses of being a member at Anytime Fitness South Melbourne is that there is currently no joining fee payable and the weekly membership is a super low rate. In addition, members also have access to more than 300 clubs Australiawide and many more overseas.

For more information, contact Anytime Fitness South Melbourne on 9682 1453.

By Suzana Talevski – Television fitness presenter and instructor

• Dusting high surfaces works the upper body – particularly your forearm, upper arm and shoulder.

Does the thought of housework or any general work around the house leave you feeling somewhat uninspired? If the answer is yes, then this will change the way you think about your dreaded chores forever.

• Clean your windows. It not only tones your arms and shoulders, but the vigorous action of cleaning can also work your stomach muscles if you brace.

What if I told you it could actually be fun and you would be building lean muscle tone? Well it’s true … and here are some quick examples of how.

The first and most important rule is get your favourite tunes out and blast the speakers loud. Now you’re in the mood to work out and remember this advice applies to men and women equally.

• Don't stand around until the microwave dings or the water boils. Do squats and push-ups on the floor or against the wall.

• Washing dishes. Forget the dishwasher. While washing dishes do calf raises stopping at the top and coming down slowly.

• Ironing – great for your arms but also your butt. How? Squeeze your buttock cheeks together hard for 10 seconds. Do this 10 times.

Sleep well

By Dana Atkin - Professional Kinesiology Practitioner Frustrating isn’t it? When you can’t sleep. You’ve had a big day, you’re tired and you can’t wait to get to bed.

You snuggle in at 9.30pm; take a few deep breaths and think “Ahhh … yes.

Sleep time.” That is until you roll over (for what feels like the 100th time) and check the clock. 1am – eek!

Research says that getting adequate sleep is good for you for a number of reasons. Some of these reasons are: 1. Your nervous system – it improves concentration, mood and memory.

2. Your immune system – when your immune system is well rested, it can defend your body easier and more effectively.

3. Your cardiovascular system –

getting adequate sleep may help to reduce heart rate variability and 4. It’s good for overall body rest and rejuvenation.

So, as you can tell from this simple overview, sleep is pretty important for your health and wellbeing.

Here are my top five sleep well (or get back to sleep) tips:

1. Routine Creating a routine around bedtime for yourself teaches your body when you’re nearing sleep time. The best way to do this is to think about children and the way we teach them with a routine that it’s almost bedtime. Find a series of things to do that works for you as a bedtime routine and stick with it.

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Tone your body while doing work around the house

• Gardening - Whether hauling mulch, spreading soil, raking leaves, or pulling weeds, you’re guaranteed to break a sweat. That's because gardening works all your major muscle groups. Even something as simple as planting flowers involves squatting, which engages your legs for support, your core muscles for balance, and your arm, legs and shoulders for digging.

• Wash your car by hand every week.

Grab a sponge, some mild liquid detergent, water and a bucket and wash all areas of the car. Use long sweeping motions to get hard to reach places and squat down to clean tires and the running board. Cleaning your car by hand works work your arms, core muscles, and legs.

To incorporate a bit of cardio: • Every time a song changes do 25 jump jacks, just maybe not if you are mopping the floor.

• Plan your housework so you constantly have to run up and down the stairs. For example, empty the dishwasher in the kitchen, then make the bed upstairs, then vacuum the living room downstairs, then clean the bathroom upstairs.

2. Deep breathing

5. No electricals

This one is obvious and we hear it all the time. That’s because it works. Try taking a deep breath in through the nose and out through the mouth. Do this a number of times to calm your nervous system.

Yep. That’s no phone, no TV and no computer games in the bedroom.

This feeds into the routine factor. If your body is used to watching TV in bed, then you cannot expect that it will want to sleep there if you’ve spent all evening teaching it that it’s actually for being wide awake not sleeping.

3. Aromatherapy Lavender is a lovely essential oil to use for this exact purpose. Be careful with this one though because too much lavender can actually have the opposite effect. Remember, a little to calm, a lot to energise.

4. Meditation This one is important because often the reason we are unable to get back to sleep is that we have all these thoughts running through our mind. Meditation can help us to control our thoughts rather than letting them run away with us and the right ones can also teach us to simply let those thoughts come and go rather than lingering in the first place.

If you must have your phone in the bedroom at night (many people use it as an alarm clock) then put it on to airplane mode to stop the electrical signals from interfering with the electrical signals going on in your body.

The long-term effects of a lack of sleep can be dramatic on the body so if you’re not sleeping as well as you would like to be, then give one of the above tips a try - your body will thank you for it.

Dana Atkin, Dip. Kin Professional Kinesiology Consultant www.danaatkin.com

APRIL 2014

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Miss Meaningful Column

Hush little baby…

Orchestra performing music by 12 of Australia’s finest composers.

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’.

magmedia.com.au

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Make sure you Visit her blog at

missmeaningful.com.au

Identifying the stress children experience while dealing with cancer and illness, Dr Catherine Crock decided to partner with some of Australia's foremost professional musicians to create a collection of unique CDs called The Hush Collection.

Dr Crock is a physician at the Royal Children’s Hospital and mother of five making a difference through the Hush Music Foundation.

All musicians have volunteered their time to not only help these precious ones but also their parents during medical procedures. The albums are donated to 12 children's hospitals around Australia and the music is used on wards, in operating theatres, treatment rooms and waiting areas, as well as to manage unsettled babies.

The latest album in The Hush Collection is Volume 13 The Magic Island featuring the Tasmanian Symphony

Being the boldest and biggest undertaking for Hush yet has certainly paid off making it to number three in the respected Limelight Top 20 Chart for classical music in February’s issue this year.

Co-Artistic Director of the Hush Music Foundation, Benjamin Northey, explains: The brief for all Hush albums is that the compositions should be therapeutic, affirming and transporting.

The way individual composers responded to the needs of the hospital environment is a fascinating study in human sensitivity and empathy.

“It struck me at the completion of this recording that The Magic Island has served to bring together two forces for good in our world; the Hush Foundation and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. It’s a great privilege for all of us to be able to contribute artistically to such a worthy cause.”

These divine CDs are also available for purchase online or you can help support Hush with a donation by contacting info@hush.org.au or visit www.hush.org.au online