SU M MER 2015 56
SUMMERSALT OUTDOOR ARTS FESTIVAL UNVEILED Arts Centre celebrates 30 years of stories Your guide to what’s on this summer
your guide to the st kilda road precinct
It certainly has been a busy few months in the city. Melbourne has come alive with the colour and excitement of the Spring Racing Carnival. I was very fortunate to hold The Cup during the VRC parade down Swanston Street. There were so many tourists in town and the atmosphere was electrifying.
CONTENTS
Publisher’s note
Publisher Susan Riley melbmedia@optusnet.com.au M 0412 045 993 Editor Chelsea Arnold editor@magmedia.com.au Advertising enquiries Susan Riley melbmedia@optusnet.com.au M 0412 045 993 Paul Andrew lorcymedia@bigpond.com P 03 9370 0040 Feature writers Tom Elliott, Ozker O’Connell, Senior Sergeant Steve Bills, William So, Dr John, Anita Roper, Chris Koehn, Ray Sweeney Photography Kon Iatrou Ikon Images Ph: 1300 794 194 www.ikonimages.com.au Design Smith & Rowe studio@smithandrowe.com.au P 9525 3933 Printing Almar Press, Brunswick Phone 9380 4228 This magazine has a distribution of 10,000 - connecting residences and businesses in the St Kilda Rd Precinct. 3004 News is published by: Melbourne Media Pty Ltd The Foundry Suite 305 / 399 Bourke Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 PO Box 107, Collins St West, Melbourne VIC 8007
In this issue of 3004 News we mark the 30th anniversary of the Arts Centre. We reflect on its history and look to the future with plans for its expansion. This issue is also filled with details of plenty of events to while away the summer days. Suggestions include the SummerSalt Festival, a new five-week outdoor arts festival in Melbourne this summer. The arts precinct will be transformed into a veritable feast of arts every weekend for five weeks. I encourage you all to get along to it.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas across the city. The official Christmas tree lighting ceremony takes place on 28 November to coincide with the arrival of Santa himself in the City Square. It’s a night for the whole family to delight in the magic and wonder of Christmas.
To you and your family, from all of us at 3004 News, thank you for your unwavering support during the year. We wish you a wonderful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Stay safe over the holidays.
Susan Riley Publisher 3004 News
No part of this publication may be recorded, stored in a retrieval system, reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without prior written permission of The Publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information in this publication, 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 Editor or The Publisher. ©Melbourne Media Pty Ltd.
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Taste of SummerSalt
HAPPENING
8-9
Your guide to what ’s on
HAPPENING
10
Todd McKenney’s song and dance
HAPPENING
12
Arts Centre celebrates 30 years
15
Club 3004
HAPPENING
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Precinct Round-up
HAPPENING
SPECIAL FEATURE
We invite our readers to submit ideas, stories, happenings and other material relevant to the St Kilda Road precinct. Email us at: chelsea@magmedia.com.au or retro mail to: PO Box 107, Collins St West, Melbourne 8007 SU M MER 2015 56
SUMMERSALT OUTDOOR ARTS FESTIVAL UNVEILED Arts Centre celebrates 30 years of stories Your guide to what’s on this summer
your guide to the st kilda road precinct
Cover image: Art and lighting combine at the SummerSalt Outdoor Arts Festival.
Cover image: Image courtesy ??
For advertising enquiries contact Susan Riley: 0412 045 993 or Paul Andrew: 9370 0040 ISSUE 56
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HAPPENING
Support for
ballet school to expand
The complex business of planning, renovation and construction is in its initial stages with the school leveraging the necessary expertise. All that they need now is to connect with the individuals, trusts, foundations and corporate organisations that have the ability to support this important project. But the school still has substantial funds to raise before Stage 1 of the project can be completed. An appeal was launched seeking the necessary support to finally bring Ms Rowe’s vision to reality.
The Australian Ballet School is an integral part of the St Kilda Road precinct. The school which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, opened its doors on 2 March 1964 with only 23 students enrolled in a two-year course.
The ballet centre moved to Southbank in 1988. Today it celebrates its development into one of the top vocational dance schools in the world with an eight-ear
training program, a internationally recognised health and welfare program and a teachers’ course. The school is looking to expand and has purchased a property in The Avenue, Parkville which it hopes to develop into a student residence. When school director Marilyn Rowe began 16 years ago she had a vision that the teaching program be complemented by a safe and secure residential facility to house the school’s interstate, regional Australia and international students.
The immediate need, and part of its duty of care, is to secure a student residence for their most vulnerable students; those aged 14 to 15 years who would otherwise have to leave their families and reside in homestay situations. About 80% of the school’s students are from interstate and the choice for those students is to live independently, live in homestay or for their families to move to Melbourne. There are many situations where a family is forced to leave some members at home and have others move to Melbourne to facilitate the students desire to attend the school. Ideally a student residence would house 70 students but in order
to move forward realistically the school has identified Stage 1 of the project which would accommodate 30 to 40 students. The Australian Ballet School is the only national ballet school in the world without a student residence. As a result, each year about 10% to 15% of offers to enter the school are declined. Many of those declining chose not to accept because they were too young to separate from their families and move to Melbourne without appropriate duty of care such as that provided by the many boarding schools around Australia. This talent drain to overseas schools cannot be left to continue. Entry to The Australian Ballet School is via audition and based purely on talent and a person’s suitability to the demands of a professional dance career. Talent does not discriminate so students are culturally and socioeconomically diverse. The school provides vocational classical dance training equally to male and female dancers. For information on supporting the student residence of The Australian Ballet School contact Head of Philanthropy, Debra Adamidis on 9669 2810 or at dadamidis@australianballetschool. com.au via email.
Keeping St Kilda Road safe By Senior Sergeant Steve Bills
It’s only weeks until Christmas … where has the year gone? Another year gone and more expensive Christmas presents required as the kids get older. I used to say that when my kids were 18 I would finally be able to kick them out of home. Now I realise that when they turn 18 I will be able to leave home! The most topical thing at present for police has been the rise in the terror threat level and the unfortunate incident at Endeavour Hills resulting in the serious injury of two police members and the death of a young man. These sorts of incidents, and the way media reports them, and what is happening overseas understandably can raise concerns in the community. And while
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there have been some necessary changes in the way we conduct our business it is very important that we continue business as usual and try to provide confidence for the community.
All reasonable people are aware that there are radical elements to all religions but while the media will always highlight these elements, the reality is that they are a very small minority of any religion and culture. So it is important to put it all into perspective and ensure it doesn’t affect your quality of life. I can assure you that regardless of the terror threat, Victoria Police will continue to provide a quality service to you with an emphasis on making you feel safe in your community. So as the Christmas period approaches enjoy yourself and your
family but stay safe on the roads. We all know it can get a bit crazy in the lead up to Christmas and over the New Year period so please make sure you take care when driving and ensure you don’t drink and drive over the festive season. That way you’ll enjoy the season and be back refreshed and ready to go in 2015. See you in the New Year. ‘till next time, Steve
Thought for the day…
What’s right is what’s left if you do everything else wrong
Robin Williams
HAPPENING
Festival gets to the
ART OF MELBOURNE By Chelsea Arnold
Melburnians will be doing somersaults over a new five-week outdoors arts festival opening on 16 January. Visitors are invited to enjoy art in the great outdoors, while experiencing Southbank in new ways when Melbourne’s arts precinct goes on show during the SummerSalt Festival. Kids, families, tourists, art-lovers and the local Southbank community can roam the streets enjoying free or low-cost handson arts experiences.
Visitors to SummerSalt Festival will weave their way through the Melbourne arts precinct, taking in music, art installations, dance, circus and puppetry classes, as well as theatre, aerial dance and circus performances.
The festival is hosted by 11 companies including the Melbourne Recital Centre, Arts Centre Melbourne, ABC, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, Chunky Move, Malthouse Theatre, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Theatre Company, Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet and the Victorian College of the Arts. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
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The festival was conceived and is being directed by Melbourne Recital Centre’s Director of Programming and Presenter Services, Kirsten Siddle.
“Bringing so many companies and artists together in collaboration to present SummerSalt is a first, as is the unique outdoor focus of the festival,” Ms Siddle said. “We hope that people will delight in SummerSalt and discover the city’s quirky artistic heart.”
•
The elaborate, inflatable labyrinth of light and colours that is Exxopolis will make a welcome appearance at SummerSalt. This series of beautiful walk-in spaces called a luminariums sees inflatable domes soaring 10 metres high amid a maze of twisting tunnels, geometric pods and alcoves in a series of living sculptures reminiscent of Islamic architecture and Gothic cathedrals. While over at Malthouse Theatre, Blak Cabaret is set to be a party like no other, lighting up the night with music, comedy and dance, the star-spangled gala will feature some of Australia’s finest Aboriginal and Torres
•
Strait Islander comedians, musicians, dancers and poets under the stars. Closing weekend will coincide with White Night Melbourne, ensuring a spectacular close on 21 February.
Arts Minister Heidi Victoria said Melbourne’s arts precinct in Southbank has one of the highest concentrations of arts organisations in the world. “SummerSalt celebrates this and invites people from all walks to be part of a fun, creative, surprising outdoor event,” Ms Victoria said.
and philanthropic support from University of Melbourne, City of Melbourne, Telstra, TAC, Southgate and Australian Unity. SummerSalt Outdoor Arts Festival will occupy the area bordered by St Kilda Road, Kings Ways, the Yarra River and City Road. The Botanic Gardens and associated parklands will also be used, as will a corridor along Southbank Boulevard to the riverfront.
For the full SummerSalt program visit summersaltfestival.com.au
“SummerSalt is a collaboration on an unprecedented scale and brings together creative minds from many of our leading arts organisations.
“For locals and visitors alike, SummerSalt will be full of surprises. Giant creatures will transform our landmark buildings, performances will take over streets and outdoor spaces and audiences of all ages will have the chance to dance, explore, play and enjoy.” The festival has been made possible by $1.1 million from the State Government which is being matched by corporate
ISSUE 56
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Concierge Communiqué
HAPPENING
- At Your Service Oz O’Connell Concierge Manager
Yve – 576 St Kilda Road, 3004 Welcome to concierge communiqué, we hope you find our comments and suggestions valuable to help you enjoy living in Melbourne – ‘the world’s most liveable city’. With a touch of old-school charm that one associates with five-star service that Yve residents enjoy 24/7.
Feel like seafood … be sure to try Man Mo at the World Trade Centre.
This Chinese Seafood Restaurant is the sister restaurant to the famous Man Mo in Docklands. Excellent service, great views and be sure to try their trio of oysters. Alfred or Eric will look after you – highly recommended. Weekend fun … for charity
The Sunday Age City2Sea, to be held on Sunday, November 16, 2014. The 5km event will start at 8am, the 15km event The following questions and answers will help starting at 8.20am. Melbourne’s own you enhance your quality of life in our lovely city. Havana Brown will be performing after recent success with hit singles in the United More than just coffee … States. Visit www.thecity2sea.com.au to join St Ali’s South Melbourne and Carlton the fun from CBD to St Kilda beach. – Source and roast the best coffee beans Summer is coming ... with a great variety that changes daily, look out for the coffee of the day. Outdoor cinemas are back – Ben and Jerry’s Openair Cinema will operate from 30 Boutique wine - Where can I find someone who November to 21 December at South Beach really knows their wines and at the right price? Reserve next to the St Kilda Sea Baths. The Melbourne Wine Store – 3/401 St Kilda We hope this information helps you enjoy Road, Melbourne and 51 Peel Street, your life in Melbourne, until next time. West Melbourne, near Victoria markets. Chat to Guy Surkjin and the passionate staff Concierge at Yve are provided by always happy to help select boutique and Oz Concierge, the concierge and individually selected wine, beer and spirits. building management specialists. Talk to the team about free local delivery.
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INTERVIEW ISSUE 56
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HAPPENING
Nutcracker : The Gift of a Dream
Suzi Quatro
Sidney Myer Free Concerts
Horrible Histories Barmy Britain
See some of Australia’s finest young dancers showcased in a wonderful evening of ballet. The production, choreographed by Leigh Rowles and set to Tchaikovsky’s music, is perfect family entertainment blending humour, romance and dance within an enchanting story of Christmas magic. The story is filled with a wonderland of characters whose encounters explore the theme that beauty beyond the surface is visible for the eyes that seek it.
Suzi Quatro returns to Australia in January for her final Australian tour after 50 years in the business. The tour will be one to remember filled with tears, laughter and lots of rock and roll.
Bohemian Rhapsodies is the rousing finale to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s summer series. This spirited program opens with Smetana’s exuberant overture to The Bartered Bride, while Tchaikovsky’s much-loved Violin Concerto brings Slavic melodies into the fray. The last word is saved for Dvořák’s Symphony No.8, a lively evocation of the composer’s deep affection for the Czech countryside and its people.
We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead. So it’s time to prepare yourself for Horrible Histories live on stage with a new show Barmy Britain with all new amazing 3D effects. Will you love Richard the Lionheart? Would you lose your heart or head to horrible King Henry VIII? Can evil Queen Elizabeth entertain England? Will Parliament survive gunpowder Guy Fawkes? Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria. It’s the horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in.
When: 12-14 December Time: 11.30am, 1.30pm and 7.30pm Where: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne Cost: Adult $64, concession $58 Bookings: 1300 002 787
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When: 5- 7 February, 2015 Cost: A-Reserve: $129, VIP Meet & Greet: $229 Where: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne Details: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au
When: 21 February 2015 Time: 7pm, gates open 4pm Where: Sidney Myer Music Bowl
When: 21- 25 January Time: Matinee and evening shows Cost: A-Reserve: $59, B-Reserve: $49, Family: $49 Where: Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne Bookings: 1300 182 183
Mambo – 30 years of shelf-indulgence
Sunsets at MPavilion
From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk
Direct from London’s West End, Thriller Live celebrates the undisputed King of Pop in a spectacular show packed with more than two hours of your Michael Jackson and Jackson 5 hits including I Want You Back, ABC, Beat It, Billie Jean, Thriller. In a career spanning more than 40 years, Michael Jackson sold an unparalleled 750 million records worldwide, with the Thriller album still the world’s bestselling recording of all time. Thriller Live brings to life the sensational dancing and distinctive sound of Jackson’s greatest hits includes dazzling choreography.
Our country’s most irreverent brand - Mambo - has turned 30. With its idiosyncratic Australian sense of humour and perverse national pride, Mambo has seemingly grown up. Mambo: 30 years of shelfindulgence presents all the ideas, key elements and oddities that have made it one of Australia’s most memorable brands. The exhibition sees NGV Studio housing the largest collection of Mambo works ever assembled, ranging from 1984 to the present day, including original artworks, developmental works and a retrospective of the most-loved pieces produced during its history.
Enjoy the summer twilight hours under the city’s newest contemporary pop-up venue. Visit MPavilion to wind down after the work week with a sultry sunset soundtrack from a roster of local and visiting DJs. Everyday Coffee Kiosk will be your resort hosts, serving a rotating selection of local wines and beers, as well as soft drinks.
Fashionistas rejoice. Design legend Jean Paul Gaultier’s famed From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk exhibition is on show until 8 February. From Sidewalk to Catwalk will showcase over one hundred and forty of Gaultier’s iconic creations. The exhibition covers a selection of everything from his first ever dress, the infamous cone bustiers made for Madonna, award show gowns, to his most recent haute couture and ready to wear lines.
When: 28 January - 8 February Where: State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne Cost: $65 - $124.90 Bookings: 1300 182 183
When: Until 22 February Where: NGV Studio, The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square Cost: Free
When: Every Friday Time: 5–9pm Where: Queen Victoria Gardens Cost: Free
HAPPENING
Thriller Live
When: Until 8 February Where: NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne Cost: $22 to $60 Tickets: www.ngv.vic.gov.au
ISSUE 56
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HAPPENING
Todd’s making a
song and dance By Chelsea Arnold
Todd McKenney is the first to admit that he would not have had “the acting chops before now” to carry off the role of a drag queen in The Production Company’s latest stage show.
“It’s a very different style of show with The Production Company, it goes very fast. There’s no time to pussyfoot around. We’re doing 17 shows and we’ve had three weeks’ rehearsal time.
McKenney said playing the role of Albin was challenging and that it was because of his many years in theatre that he was now able to do the character justice.
McKenney, best known for landing the prized role of Peter Allen in the Australian hit production The Boy From Oz, can also be seen in Grease from next month in what he describes as the “smallest part in the show. I’m on stage for 3.53 seconds” and later next year in Anything Goes.
The seasoned star of the stage plays Albin in the Harvey Fierstein and Jerry Herman masterpiece, La Cage Aux Folles, the original musical version of the movie, The Birdcage.
“He’s a very strong character. This character is very complex, you can’t just go out and play a drag queen. You really have to know your stuff. I wouldn’t have had the acting chops before now,” he said. “Essentially the story is about two gay guys who run this nightclub in St Tropez, one has a son who is marrying a very well-to-do politician.” Albin is the star attraction of La Cage Aux Folles, a nightclub in St Tropez. Albin and Georges (Simon Burke) are in a loving, respectful long-term relationship. The fact that they’re men, and one a drag queen, is the conflict of the show, but the story itself ultimately says that love and companionship are more valuable than appearances. The moment when Georges’ son, Jean-Michel realises who his mother really is and apologises to Albin is so moving. McKenney said it was timely to produce a show about what a family really is while the fight for recognition of gay marriage and families continues. “This is coming out a great time to talk about these things. The show is all about families. It’s a very, very funny show. You will get belly laughs, there’s great dancing and a fabulous score. All the songs are big Broadway hits. “Plus it’s such a brilliant cast. We’ve got Gary Sweet, Marg Downie and Rhonda Burchmore. “This is the third show I have done for The Production Company. First there was The Boy From Oz and then Anything Goes and now La Cage Aux Folles.
La Cage Aux Folles
When: 21 November to 7 December Where: Play House, Arts Centre Melbourne Time: 7.30pm Tuesday to Sunday (excluding 23 and 25 November), 2pm on Saturdays, 3pm Sundays and 1pm Wednesdays
Tickets: $24 to $119
Bookings: www.theproductioncompany.com.au
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“I did my first show with The Production Company in 1985 as a chorus member. Now 31 years later I’m back as the lead. It’s come full circle.”
“I’m fully booked until 2016.”
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ARTS CENTRE ANNIVERSARY
1900
EARLY 1900s
The Arts Centre site is home to Wirth Brother’s Circus.
1940
1944
Dr Margaret Sutherland initiates interest from music, drama and ballet societies, and a signed petition of 40,000 is presented to the Victorian Government.
Master plan for the to-be Arts Centre Melbourne site approved, with Sir Roy Grounds as the chosen architect.
1960
1950
The Queen and Prince Phillip attended a spectacular sound and light display on the (still in construction) theatres site.
OCT 1984
1996
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THE THEATRES BUILDING OFFICIALLY OPENS.
Due to deterioration, the spire was replaced with a new version, reaching 162 metres (the original design was 115 metres). This is also when lights were installed in the spire.
3004NEWS
Melbourne South Land Act introduced to reserve the site for cultural purposes.
1943
1946
1960
1970
1977
Reconstruction Committee recommends a separate gallery and 1000-seat auditorium for the Wirth’s park site
Initial construction phase begins and continues through to 1978.
1973
FAST FACTS
The spire was designed to be clad in copper to resemble a ballerina’s tutu. School students even donated 1c and 2c coins to provide the copper covering. Arts Centre Melbourne’s Playhouse foyers were the first public building in Australia to permanently display Indigenous artworks.
1980
Main construction phase begins and continues through to 1982.
Melbourne South Land Act introduced to reserve the site for cultural purposes.
1979
1983
1990
The Theatres Building is seven metres below the water table. Initially, however, the entire building complex was intended to sit below ground, with only the spire visible from above. When Pavarotti performed at Hamer Hall the post-show signing was so popular that the queue stretched along Southbank, and the front of house manager had to call Ansett to hold his flight so he could make it to Sydney for his next show.
The $135.5 million Hamer Hall redevelopment takes place & concludes in 2012. 2010
The spire was rebuilt in 1995, and was extended from its original height of 115m to 162m. Its stunning and changeable light display comes from 14,000 incandescent lamps on the skirt, 150m neon tubing on the mast and more than 6,600m fibre optic tubing.
The Commonwealth Lounge in the Theatres Building contains 500,000 Mexican marbles set in resin.
2010
Tina Arena performed three concerts after Hamer Hall reopened. In two of the three concerts, women went into labour at the conclusion of the performance.
By Chelsea Arnold
Arts Centre Melbourne is a special place of celebration with festivals, art, music and dance but the iconic venue has celebrated a special event of its own. 29 October marked the 30th anniversary since three venues – the Theatres Building with its famous spire, the Melbourne Concert Hall (now Hamer Hall), and Melbourne’s premier outdoor music venue Sidney Myer Music Bowl – came under one banner as The Victorian Arts Centre. To mark the occasion, a time capsule was created containing valuable contributions from artists and staff and other memorabilia to be opened in 30 years’ time. The time capsule was sealed by Oscar winner Geoffrey Rush at a special commemorative ceremony. The event featured performances by ladies of musical theatre Rhonda Burhcmore and Verity Hunt-Ballard.
The time capsule will be installed in Arts Centre Melbounre’s Performing Arts Collection. An anniversary dinner was also held at the State Theatre for guests including Primrose Potter, Tony and Maureen Wheeler, Andrew Grimwade and Graham Smorgon, and heads of performing arts companies. Concept plans were unveiled at the dinner revealing an upgrade of the Arts Centre site, intended to align with the Melbourne Arts Precinct Blueprint published by the State Government earlier this year. The proposal includes a pedestrian plaza connecting the Arts Centre with Southbank, including the Melbourne Recital Centre and
ARTS CENTRE ANNIVERSARY
30 Years of Stories
the Melbourne Theatre Company Theatre. It also includes an Australian performing arts gallery, a permanent display for the Arts Centre’s national collection of arts and entertainment memorabilia, plus retail and food outlets. With free events, daytime programming, digital projects and online experiences, Arts Centre Melbourne is proud of its role as Melbourne’s centre of storytelling for all. Last year the centre engaged with more than 3.1 million people, staged more than 3,300 performances and events, and hosted more than 46,000 students in its venues, making it the busiest performing arts centre in Australia.
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NEIGHBOURHOOD
Meet the magic man Put some magic into your Christmas party this year with a performance by local performer Fel!x. The emerging magician spoke to 3004 News about the wonder of tricks and mind games that never fails to captivate audiences young and old alike.
When did you discover magic?
When I was six years old my parents bought me a magic kit, which I have kept and look back into it every now and then, to reminisce about the innocent days and the beginning of my fascination with magic. Although I did not keep up with practicing in my early years, growing up watching David Copperfield on TV had kept the spark going.
What initially appealed to you about magic?
The reaction I get from people when I am performing to them, however, as I have grown as a magician, I have realised magic is so much more than that.
If my magic can distract people from the anxiety and worries of everyday life, make them smile or forget about
their problems for even one second that is what I would be doing it for.
How have you perfected your skills?
Practicing in front of the mirror helps, and recording my performances so I can watch it back to see how I can make my performance better.
Also performing a lot helps getting rid of the nervousness, which is definitely one of the hardest things to shake.
Why do people of all ages become captivated by magic?
Magic is the only art form in the world that gives people that moment of astonishment, brings them back to that child-like sense of wonder which is the experience I would like to share with everyone. Kids absolutely love magic, and even though some of us may deny
it, but there is a kid inside everyone of us - not literally though.
Is it really all smoke and mirrors? Maybe… maybe not? My lips are sealed.
Favourite trick?
You can see some of my favourite tricks filmed if you go to my website www.felixmagic.com.au
Any crowd favourites?
I don’t really want to spoil the surprise, I guess you will just have hire me to see for yourself or catch me at my next performance.
It seems like magic has made a comeback recently. Why is this?
In the old days people would have to go to a stage magic show to witness the wonders of magic. Nowadays the advances in technology, the invention of television and the birth
of YouTube are major factors in the comeback of magic, because there are literally hundreds of thousands of magic videos out there on the internet. Over the past decade a lot of magicians have also brought out their TV shows or TV specials. People are spoiled with magic without having to step a foot out their door.
Anything else you’d like to add?
There are tons of magic TV shows out there where you can enjoy the wonders of magic in the comfort of your own living room, but nothing beats watching magic live on stage, or being performed to you up close, because it is then a magician would defy the laws of physics and create the impossible right in front of you. It is then you will see the true wonders of magic. So get off your bloody couch and go to see a magic show or hire a magician for your next event.
To hire Fel!x to entertain the troops at this year’s Christmas party, find him at felixmagic.com.au or phone 0413 717 612.
Mantra expands to St Kilda Road Expansion continues for Australian hoteliers, Mantra Group, having completed the rebranding of a hotel acquisition in Melbourne.
Mantra St Kilda Road Melbourne - formerly managed by Mint Hotels and Apartments - offers upmarket apartment style accommodation in a key city precinct for corporate
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and leisure guests. The acquisition takes Mantra’s Melbourne hotel network to seven. Mantra Group CEO, Bob East, said that in Melbourne it is great to have a hotel in this part of town “complementing the strong network we have in Melbourne CBD and at Tullamarine”.
Mantra St Kilda Road offers 161 spacious studio, one and two-bedroom
fully serviced apartments that feature gourmet kitchens, large living areas and balconies with views across Albert Park Lake, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Domain Parklands.
In-room features include iPod docking stations, WiFi and broadband internet and LCD TV with digital channels. The hotel, having only opened in 2011, is a contemporary design with modern furnishings and facilities.
On-site restaurant, Bistro Bakini, is open for breakfast and lunch and serves modern Italian cuisine in the evenings. Conference facilities for 120 people are also available and meet the highest standards in environmentally sustainable design. It is close to all the St Kilda Road precinct’s surrounding landmarks and attractions including the Albert Park Lake, the Alfred Hospital and Wesley College.
HAPPENING
Club 3004
St Kilda Road’s very own business and social networking group, Club 3004, offers a great platform for well-established networkers to come together on the first Thursday of every month to discuss issues and ideas relevant to our St Kilda Road. Why not join us for a drink and a laugh after work?
Agnes and Deb
Jacqui, Luke and David
Lisa Pavane
Lorraine, Bruce, Rose and John
Mary, Kelvin, Ian and Maya
The Australian Ballet School
Tony, Tia and John
Chris and Jon
Don Miller
Francoise, Phil and Mia
Justin and Greg
Margaret, Vicki and Gerald
Peter and Chris
Rob, David and Rebecca
Tim and Russell
Wayne, Danielle and Hans
Kaye and Guy
Simone and Janine
See more photos, participate in local activities and stay updated about Club 3004 events by our Facebook site: Club 3004 Club 3004 Sponsors
On behalf of the team of Club 3004, we would like to thank all of our members and guests for making the first Thursday of every month at Club 3004 special. We wish you all the very best for Christmas and for a wonderful and prosperous New Year! - Susan, Lyndall, Jim, Sharon, Jane, Rodney and Kon. KEEP UP TO DATE AT CLUB3004.COM.AU OR ON FACEBOOK
www.club3004.com.au
Photography by Kon Iatrou, Ikon Images
Webpage sponsored by Rodney www.pn.com.au
ISSUE 56
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PRECINCT ROUND-UP
precinct round-up
Winemaker takes over Metropol
The site uses device detection technology, meaning anyone who visits the site, www.portphillip. vic.gov.au from a tablet or smartphone will automatically be redirected to the mobilefriendly version.
COUNCIL GOES MOBILE WITH NEW WEBSITE The City of Port Phillip is providing information to people on the move. The council launched its mobile and tablet-friendly website last month, which features an optimised homepage to provide quick links to top mobile tasks.
A new wine bar has popped up just off St Kilda Road. Experience an urban oasis at Stoneleigh Metro until Saturday, 28 February. Take a moment from your busy life to immerse yourself in the suspended gardens of Stoneleigh’s Wonder of Nature, inspired by New Zealand’s unsurpassed surroundings. Stoneleigh Metro at Metropol St Kilda, features an original design created by Australian stylist Steve Cordony. Guests can take part in the Stoneleigh Marlborough Tasting sampling Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. With live local DJ sets and delicious menu options perfectly matched with Stoneleigh wines, this urban oasis is sure to indulge the senses. Stoneleigh Metro is at 60 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.
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Mayor Amanda Stevens said the project will help inform and engage the community and improve access to the council.
“This project was undertaken to meet the demands of the growing number of people who access our website with mobile devices,” Cr Stevens said.
“This is a great example of the council’s commitment to meet the changing demands of its residents and customers.”
By Tom Elliott
Because I’m opposed to military action by Australia (and the US) against the barbarous Islamic State in Iraq, people have accused me of heartlessness towards the suffering of others. Nothing could be further from the truth. Sadly, the world is full of terrible things being done by one group of people towards another. It is a peculiarly Western conceit, however, that we must set straight global injustice. In reality the more we put our young soldiers, sailors and airmen into harm’s way, the more we risk ruining their lives for no appreciable gain.
There’s no doubt Iraq would be a better place if the thugs who make up IS just disappeared. Unfortunately, because a decade ago America and its allies removed the only man with the proven ability to hold his country together, a power vacuum has formed into which the Islamic State has stepped. Quite frankly, if we could bring Saddam Hussein back from the dead and put him back in charge of Iraq, the place would be in better shape. Even if 2003’s ‘Coalition of the Willing’ - which included Australia - were to recommit large numbers of troops in an effort to obliterate the Islamic State, who or what would take its place? The vagaries of Iraqi politics means the West has little control over the
type of government which might emerge once victory is declared.
then they are the ones who must oppose it on the battlefield.
Twenty years ago rival ethnic groups in a hitherto unremarkable African country called Rwanda suddenly began dismembering each other with machetes. Hundreds of thousands of innocent people were killed, and many more lost hands, arms and eyes to unimaginable butchery.
If nations like ours get involved (again), our soldiers will quickly replace the IS jihadists as public enemy number one amongst Iraqis.
Western nations like the USA, UK, France and Australia watched this catastrophe with great horror, yet decided against intervention. This was because cool military heads at the time warned about the historical idiocy of placing neutral troops in the middle of a civil war. If people in the Middle East do not want a fundamentalist Islamic caliphate in their midst,
BUSINESS
We can’t right the world’s wrongs
Are Australian lives worth sacrificing in what is essentially a Muslim civil war? I very much doubt it.
Tune in and listen to Tom between 3-6pm weekdays on 3AW’s Drive. Tom Elliott is Director of 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
The Industry
of Internet Fraud The boom of fraud and malicious attacks via the internet has caught many Australian individuals and businesses by surprise. A recent report conducted by the ACCC reported that Australians lost $90 million in 2013 through scams, more than 40% of which were online-based.
The Cryptolocker Trojan, which first appeared last year, has been estimated to have made its creator more than $US100 million by encrypting and ‘ransoming’ victims’ data according to the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. The success of Cryptolocker has
uncovered a worldwide market which has spawned a number of copycats and variants which are evolving faster than anti-virus (AV) software companies can keep up. The variant CryptoWall has already infected a further 20,000 Australian computers. Perhaps even more frightening
is the cleverness in which these attackers are targeting specific groups and demographics through well disguised emails from well-known entities. With so much money to be made it’s no wonder that Internet fraud has become a major world-wide industry. An industry being led by criminal organisations adopting strategies and targeted campaigns as intricate as any other multimillion dollar campaign. The obvious solution to this growing threat is of course to be more careful when opening emails and clicking on links. This however faces the same challenge being faced by AV software companies in that the
By Ray Sweeney threats are constantly evolving and often staying one step ahead. The solution, a multi-layered strategic approach to network security. Simply owning AV protection or having a firewall will no longer cut it. Businesses need to begin looking at network security strategically with an appropriate and realistic understanding of risks and contingencies. These solutions don’t have to cost the earth, but they do need to match the threat being posed. Ray Sweeney is the Virtual Chief Information Officer Team Leader at Premier Technology Solutions. www.premiertech.com.au ISSUE 56
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FOOD & WINE
Culinary Corner By Chris Koehn “Cauliflower is nothing but cabbage with a college education”. - Mark Twain A fresh and crunchy salad doesn’t always have to be on the side, it can be the star of its own meal.
SALAD INGREDIENTS
3 cups of cauliflower rice (1/2 cauliflower blitzed in a food processor) 250g of broad beans ½ cup fresh peas 2 handfuls of rocket (or baby kale, spinach) 4 radishes thinly sliced ½ cup Medjool dates finely chopped Handful of parsley roughly chopped Handful of mint roughly chopped 1 avocado cubed
Try out this fantastic summer salad made with cauliflower rice. Summer is the perfect time to increase your vegetable intake. This salad will give you energy, it is 100% raw goodness while still being filling and bursting with flavour, cauliflower rice is a mild tasting fresh and filling way to bulk up a salad, dates add a wonderful sweetness and rocket gives you a lovely nutty flavour. It is surprisingly delicious, very easy to make, lowcalorie, and gluten-free and it’s a great rice substitute.
Summer salad with cauliflower rice, rocket and turmeric toasted seeds
DRESSING INGREDIENTS
Juice of 1 lemon 4tbs olive oil 1 clove garlic finely diced 1/2 tsp maple syrup or coconut sugar Pinch sea salt and a generous amount cracked pepper Toasted turmeric and tamari seeds ½ cup sunflower seeds ½ cup pumpkin seeds ¼ cup sesame seeds 1 tabs tamari ¼ tsp turmeric
For more recipes or any culinary enquiries you can contact me by visiting my website: www.myhomechef.com.au
Wine matters – Champagne Charlie By Guy Surkijn
Drive 145 km East of Paris, France, and there you are in one of the world’s most renowned wine regions, Champagne, a name also given to its sparkling wine and synonymous with celebrations. Champagne must come from this delimited geographic area totaling approximately 84,000 acres of land and where three main grape varieties are grown: one white grape, chardonnay and two black grapes, pinot noir and pinot meunier. Using these grapes and a process called ‘Traditional Method’, characterised by a second fermentation and maturation of the wine in its go to market bottle, this famous beverage is crafted with great care and skill in many a style. So which to choose? The main thrust of the production goes into non-vintage (NV) brut (or dry) champagne. NV brut is typically
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made by blending wines from of all three grapes varieties from the current year together with reserve wines from prior years. It is then matured for at least 15 months. This skillful winemaking process allows champagne houses to achieve their own style consistently year on year. This is the more affordable champagne.
champagne produced; Blanc de Blanc, created exclusively from chardonnay grapes, tends to promote crisp citrus flavours of lemon and grapefruit and; Blanc de Noir, where only point noir and pinot meunier grapes are used, usually develops delicate flavours reminiscent of red berries such as raspberry or strawberry.
Besides NV brut a number of other dry styles appear: Rosé, made either by adding some red wine into the blend or by allowing contact with black grape skins for colour extraction. Rosé is increasingly popular and now accounts for one in 10 bottles of
Next up the value chain comes vintage champagnes in a similar variety of styles. The main difference is primarily due to the use of better quality fruit yielded in years warranting a vintage to be declared by the champagne producer combined with a longer maturation
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1 In a small sauté pan toast seeds and ground turmeric, over medium heat until slightly toasted, stir through tamari and set aside to cool. Combine with the rest of the ingredients in a jar and shake or whisk until combined.
2 Cook broad beans in boiling salted water for about 3 mins drain and rinse under cold water then remove the outer layer. If you are using frozen beans cover with boiling water for about 2 mins discard outer skin. 3 Combine all other salad ingredients season with salt and pepper.
4 Just before serving add the dressing and sprinkle with the toasted seeds.
period of minimum three years during which time the wine acquires much of the sought after yeasty, fresh bread or brioche flavour characteristics. Top of the range sits the prestige cuvée showcasing the different house styles, using selected grapes only from the best vintages and precious tiny vineyards. Prestige cuvée is matured for much longer, often in excess of six to 10 years, during which period the wine gains more pronounced yeasty and fresh brioche notes contributing to more complex flavours before finally being released to market in special bottles and packaging at the steepest prices. These premium champagnes are the most elegant with the finest bubbles. Talking of bubbles, if you happened to sip one flute of champagne while reading this article, you might be interested to know that, according to research by scientist Gérard LigierBelair keen to put the record straight on this matter in April this year, you sipped one million bubbles.
22/10/14 9:50 PM
Port Phillip Council is creating a forum for community members to be informed about Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area (FBURA) projects.
Mayor Amanda Stevens said the forum would give the council and other key stakeholders the opportunity to regularly inform forum members on FBURA projects. Council officers would also seek members’ input on key projects and the FBURA more generally. “The public does not have the right to appeal or challenge developments, as the FBURA is a Capital City Zone,” Cr Stevens said. “We believe it is important for our community to have a voice and be able to convey their vision and priorities for Fishermans Bend in this informal setting.” The council will seek input from the community about the membership, terms of reference and meeting schedule for the forum, which is expected to meet from early 2015.
Anita Roper
3004 News’ Environment column Just imagine if we could reuse and recycle more of our buildings.
While our new buildings become greener and more sustainable we still truck waste from our building sites. A recent visit to Cordoba’s Mesquite (mosque) has inspired me to think about the reuse and recycling of buildings. It is a symbol of the overlap of civilisations and building styles. The mosque built in 785, was expanded three times and then reconsecrated as a Christian church in 1236 with a cathedral constructed inside the mosque’s outer walls in 1523. The minaret was crowned by a cross and later a bell tower. The Moors built the mosque reusing columns, capitals and
stone from Roman and Visigothic Spain and even Africa. As Cordoba prospered becoming the equal of Damascus and Baghdad the mosque expanded to have 1013 columns, 856 of which survive today. The Byzantine emperor sent his best tradesmen to help. King Ferdinand simply reconsecrated the mosque as a church after the reconquest in 1236. The cathedral construction occurred in the centre of the mosque and today is still surrounded by its Moorish history. You still enter through the Moorish washing area now planted with orange trees. Our new buildings in Melbourne are becoming greener and more sustainable. Just imagine if we could reuse, recycle and retrofit more of our buildings. Improving buildings is a major factor in dramatically cutting greenhouse emissions.
We are already good at it. Any theatre-goer to the Princess or the Regent can appreciate the efforts of David Marriner to revive old buildings. An example is 500 Collins Streets which is an award-winning commercial example of a more efficient and comfortable building.
ENVIRONMENT
Forum to discuss Fishermans Bend
From our Melbourne context of 180 years young it is a challenge to think of the changing use of a 1300-year-old building. I wonder how many of our buildings will still be used in 1300 years like the Mesquite of Cordoba? Best wishes for a safe and happy Christmas,
Anita Roper
The public will continue to have the right to make submissions at council meetings on relevant individual development applications. The council will also form a Major Development Group for council officers to review development applications against the Strategic Framework Plan (SFP) and the council’s objectives and provide advice to assist councillors to form a position or decide on a development application. “We view the SFP as a starting point and the council remains committed to its vision of Fishermans Bend developing as a world-class example of quality design, livability and sustainability for its existing and future residents,” Cr Stevens said. This meant continuing to push for changes including Council RA status to be up to 25,000 square metres (up from 10,000 square metres), minimum targets for sustainability and affordable/ social housing, funding certainty for open space purchases and early delivery of community and transport infrastructure. ISSUE 56
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HEALTH
Hair loss
is treatable We all take pride in our appearance - and a big part of that is our hair.
It is normal to shed some hair each day as part of this cycle. However, some people may experience excessive hair loss. Hair loss of this type can affect men, women and children. St Kilda Road’s Hairlogica specialises in hair loss therapies and has been treating Victorians for the past 10 years.
The clinic is always at the forefront of cutting edge hair loss technologies. Hairlogica’s Steve Sindiris said the clinic’s procedures range from hair transplantation, Hairlogica Hair replacement, home hair regrowth treatments and the latest technology using stem cells to assist in regrowing hair.
“Coupling our exceptional service with state of the art technology, Hairlogica is able to deliver a solution that other providers cannot. We have a deep understanding of the industry and each client is treated with a tailored individual program,” Steve said. “Our excellent patient care has been developed to ensure
the client’s needs are always placed first. From the first time you contact us to your last post-treatment session, we ensure that you are well informed and catered for across every step of the process.” Hairlogica’s major point of difference is that its hair replacement procedure has been developed in-house. “Hairlogica Hair Replacement and the development of home laser regrowth therapy allows one to complete his or her treatments at home with a laser that boasts 50 lasers that saturates the entire scalp to ensure growth is achieved. Accompanying the therapy are hair growth lotions that have our patented technology called Plantolin from an Indigenous plant and has remarkable medical properties.”
So if hair loss is getting you down, talk to Steve and his experienced and understanding team at Hairlogica about the options available to treat this common condition. Hairlogica is at Level 1, 499 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. For a free hair loss consultation, phone 1300 768 968.
COSMETIC TRANSDERMAL RECONSTRUCTION
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St Kilda Road Medical Centre Now With Online Booking System ST KILDA ROAD MEDICAL CENTRE
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ST KILDA ROAD TRAVEL MEDICINE
Practice Hours: Weekdays (8am-6pm) Saturday (9am-12.30pm) Closed on Sunday & public holiday
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(03) 9869 2000
www.skrmc.com.au
Level 1, 391 St Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC, 3004
11/13/14 5:36 PM
Royal Freemasons
One of Victoria’s oldest aged care service providers has become a tenant on St Kilda Road.
Royal Freemasons is a nonprofit organisation that has been providing a comprehensive range of retirement living and aged care services throughout Victoria for 147 years. Today, it provides care to almost 1300 older people. Until now, the head office has been based across the road in Moubray Street. Independent living cottages were originally built on the land known as Coppin Centre at 45 Moubray Street in 1867, 1887, 1895 and 1896. As the needs of a growing ageing population changed over the years, many buildings were built and replaced on that parcel
of land and elsewhere as Royal Freemasons took up the challenge of addressing that need. As part of this endeavour, the new building on the corner of Moubray Street and Punt Road, known as Coppin Lodge, was completed in late 2011.
Royal Freemasons, initially developed to assist in providing care for older Freemasons in the young colony, now operates for all Victorians from seven residential aged care sites, delivers care to 365 home care customers as well as providing accommodation in 235 retirement living apartments and independent living units across Victoria. The organisation has also provided management support to Masonic Care Tasmania in Launceston since October this year. Royal Freemasons’ spokesman Bruce Trengrove said that with
Pill that’s easy to swallow
Enter the frozen poo pill. Stool samples were collected from healthy adult volunteers who were screened for HIV, hepatitis and other infectious diseases and instructed to avoid eating common allergens for several days before donating. The samples were filtered, diluted, screened, put in acid-resistant capsules and frozen.
just on 800 staff across 23 sites and growing, it was decided that refurbishment of the top floor of Coppin Lodge, previously used as Support Services offices, could provide additional accommodation and care for older persons looking for something quite unique set in the beautiful surroundings of what is the Coppin Centre. “As ‘growth across our continuum of care’ is at the heart of our strategic plan, moving Support Services just across the road to Level 7, 580 St Kilda Road in August this year was an obvious option to achieve this goal and also stay in close proximity to the historic Coppin Centre site and remain in Melbourne 3004,” Mr Trengrove said. The move went smoothly and the Support Services team have settled
in well to their new location in the ProBuild building. They are within walking distance to the Coppin Centre and have the added benefits of all the amenities for which St Kilda Road is famous. “Even though we have been in the St Kilda Road vicinity for more than 147 years and were one of its earliest and original tenants, we look forward to being part of the St Kilda Road corporate community, developing new friendships and relationships,” he said.
not just band-aid solutions
By William So
It is certainly no fun to have diarrhoea every day for months and months. That’s what people who are infected with Clostridium difficile bacteria suffer. Standard treatment of oral antibiotics such as metronidazole and vancomycin is increasingly meet with treatment failure as a few of the stubborn bacteria always survived. Within a few days they would multiple and the debilitating diarrhoea would come back.
HEALTH
New home for
Twenty patients with C.diff infections took 15 pills a day for two days. Fourteen of them were free of diarrhoea within 72 hours. The other six took a second round of pills and that did the trick for four of them. Daily bowel movements decrease from five a day before treatment to two a day with 72 hours and one a day at eight weeks after. This study had a remarkable 90% success rate. Of course, further studies are still to be done to confirm these results and to evaluate longterm safety and effectiveness.
Benefit from our years of experience & knowledge for your long-term health and well being. Our philosophy is simple. We provide ‘Quality and Care’ to ensure our customers receive the best healthcare advice with value for money and reputable medical products. We are dedicated to providing professional pharmaceutical advice… our finger is always on the pulse for your good health..
Pharmacy 517 517 St Kilda Rd (Corner Commercial Rd) P 9866 4892 • F 9866 2133 Monday – Friday 8.30am – 6.30pm Saturday by appoinment Email pharmacy.517@nunet.com.au
• Self-Care Health Information • Prescription (Rx) • Vitamins • Passport Photos • Photocopy & Fax
At Pharmacy 517, we don’t have customers, we have friends. It’s how we connect with our friends that allows us to make a difference in their lives.
Also, may be … a chewable version? ISSUE 56
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MOTORING
Motoring review by Paul Maric
BMW X4 O
n the back of BMW’s success with the larger X6 SUV, the company has created the X4, which is similar in design but smaller in size. Starting from $69,430 in fourcylinder petrol X4 xDrive20i form, I jumped behind the wheel of the topspecification X4 xDrive35i, which is powered by a turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine and is priced at $87,430. From the outside, BMW’s new X4 looks like a raised, rugged SUV. The design has been tailored to offer an elevated ride height, but remain sporty and agile behind the wheel. This theme flows from the front, all the way to the rear where it slopes down for a swooping effect at the rear. Inside the cabin, that sporty theme continues with lashings of aluminium and a sporty seating position. The step into the car doesn’t feel overly high either, which is great news for drivers after a great driving position without the need for a large SUV. Under the bonnet of the BMW X4 xDrive35i is BMW’s renowned 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. The quick and sonorous engine consumes just 8.3L/100km on the combined cycle, which is pretty impressive when you consider the performance levels.
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Even more impressive than the fuel use is the quick shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox. When mated to the turbocharged six-cylinder engine, it offers steering wheel mounted paddle shifters that allow the driver to take full control of gearshifts when requested. Performance and driveability is further helped by the X4’s all-wheel-drive system that helps increase traction during cornering, especially in the wet.
It’s just as good around the city and out on country roads where the car can settle and be easy to manage. Parking is a breeze with front and rear parking sensors, along with a host of cameras. Starting from just under $70,000 for the entry level X4 xDrive20i, the BMW X4 is a perfect middle ground between SUV looks and sporting characteristics.
Drivers will be impressed by both its spacious interior and sporting credentials. Paul Maric is a Melbourne-based, independent motoring journalist and mechanical engineer. Visit: paul.maric.id.au Follow Paul on Twitter: @paulmaric
FROM 28 NOVEMBER IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME IN THE CITY
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING TOWN HALL PROJECTIONS
SANTA’S POST BOX
AND MUCH MORE FIND OUT MORE AT MELBOURNE.VIC.GOV.AU/CHRISTMAS