Melbourne Observer. 121031A. October 31, 2012. Part A. Pages 1-20

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■ Melbourne’s showbiz community is mourning the death of publicist Suzie Howie, at age 63. Opening night audience members at A Funny Thing Happened On the Way To The Forum, Suzie’s final professional assignment, paid their tributes to the dynamo. Reports on Page 3 and 6. Di Rolle’s tribute is on Page 12

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‘MELBOURNE’S WEEKLY SHOWBIZ BIBLE’

STATE EDITION Vol 44 No 1493 incorporating the Geelong Weekly

Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Page 3

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‘Ask the audience to pause and hold back their applause.

A great friend has left the theatre.’

Suzie Howie. Extraordinary woman.

■ Mebourne’s showbiz community is mourning the passing of publicist Suzie Howie, who died on Thursday night, after a seven-year battle with breast cancer.

Suzie was remembered on Saturday at the opening night of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, her final professional assignment.

Suzie, 63, had worked on a range of theatrical projects including Cats, Phantom Of The Opera, The Man From Snowy River, Love Never Dies ... even the visit of Pope John Paul II to Australia in 1995.

Performer Marina Prior led the tributes to Suzie Howie: “Ask the audience to pause and hold back their applause. A great friend has left the theatre.”

Condolence messages were plentiful on social media: TV producer Pam Barnes said: “There will never be another Suzie.

What an amazingly fabulous, intelligent, brilliant woman. I have known her for more years than I care to count. I am so sad she has gone.”

Colleague Donna Unsgaard said: “I had the pleasure of being Suzie's assistant. She was inspiring and wonderful. Such a lady and a fighter.

She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.”

Entertainer Silvie Paladino said: “So saddened to hear the news of the passing of my first publicist and friend Suzie Howie. May the angels be singing to you the most majestic and glorious song. Rest in peace darling, can't imagine an opening night without you pushing me around!”

Performer Matt Hetherington added: “It's so sad to hear of the passing of Suzie Howie. She was a great force of energy and enthusi-

PHOTO: ASH LONG

● Barry Humphries with Suzie Howie, at the Love Never Dies opening night, at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre last year. asm. She will be greatly missed. RIP the best in the business RIP.” Radio pair Grubby (Peter Suzie.”

Theatre identity Simon Gallaher Stubbs) and Dee Dee (Diane Dunsaid: “This saddens me deeply as leavy) said: “We are feeling very Suzie was so instrumental for the sad about the passing of one of success of Essgee shows around the Melbourne's best PR gals, Suzie Howie. A straight-talking, kind, country. RIP dear Suzie.”

Leading press photographer Julie funny, dynamic woman, her parting Kiriacoudis said: “Very sad news, words were "Enjoy life - I have". As always, we will do as she asks. RIP Suzie.”

Radio man Ian Maurice said: “I'm shocked. I thought Suzie was invinvincible. RIP Suzie. The theatre will miss you so much.”

3AW theatre commentator Chris Ryan said: “I am deeply saddened by dear Suzie's passing. The the-

‘Led by example’

■ “Suzie Howie was one very special person - I really do think they broke the mould after they made her,” said Julie Houghton, Melbourne Observer arts columnist.

“Having dealt with Suzie over three decades as an arts journalist, she inspired confidence in everyone she dealt with.

“If Suzie said an interview would happen, you knew you could rely on it.

“But my real admiration for Suzie increased tenfold when I started out as a publicist myself, and quickly realised that the role model I needed was Suzie.

“To watch the way she con● Julie Houghton ducted a press reception, or glided easily around the room connecting people to one another, was an education in how to do the job.

“And always with a smile and a welcoming word for each arts journo at her reception. From a very personal perspective, Suzie was always very supportive of my own efforts as a publicist and so kind in her feedback and encouragement.

“This was something I treasured from the lady who has been aptly called the Publicity Queen. Suzie, I shall miss you greatly, but glad for your sake that you are now at peace. Thanks for leading by example, and we are poorer for not having you here anymore.”

atre lights will seem just a tad dimmer tonight. But tomorrow, they'll be serving breakfast outside Florentino's in Bourke St - one of our last 'on the hop' meetings ... a list of to dos in front of her, the dogs in the car and Paul by her side ... somewhere there's an incandescence needing to glow upon a show.

It will be unimaginably enriched.

Goodnight dear friend.”

Age columnist Suzanne Carbone said: “Saddened by the death of wonderful publicist Suzie Howie but heartened that she is being chauffeured to the theatre in the sky and has the best seat in the house in row H.” Actor Nick Giannopoulos recalled: “Suzie and Paul worked on some of my stage shows in the 90s.

I will never forget the long coffee sessions at Mario's discussing the publicity schedule.

“It began with me not wanting to do any of it and an hour later Suzie had convinced me to do all of it.

“She really understood actors and knew exactly what to say and when to say it. The best I've worked with. RIP Suzie. My deepest sympathies to Paul.”

Journalist Cheryl Critchley said: “ It's so sad. Suzie was one of the best, and a great person as well.”

Media woman Alison Lee-Tet said: “Vale to the lovely Suzie Howie. You are the most amazing person I've met, who made everyone who met you feel so very special and unique.

“The world of music, musical theatre and entertainment will not be the same without your cheery face and voice around the place for launches and opening nights.”

Photographer Jim Lee said: “A trooper to the end. Vale Suzie Howie.

You will be very sadly missed in Showbiz, in the arts, in theatre, in the media, by your family and friends, and in our hearts!”

Writer Jacqueline Pascarl said: "So sad, what a wonderful 'gal' - VIP seats to Heaven Suzie.” ● Turn To Page 6

PHOTO: JIM LEE

● Melbourne photographer Jim Lee captured Suzie Howie at work on her final professional assignment, the launch of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, with John Frost and Simon Phillips.

Farewell message

● Suzie Howie ■ “A publicist to the end,” is how Age journalist Karl Quinn described Suzie Howie, following her death at Kyneton on Thursday night.

Suzie prepared a farewell message prior to her passing, which was released by her solicitor: ★ “I have had a terrific life and am so grateful for the fun, the excitement and the wonderful people who have been part of it.

“Couldn't have done it without the love of my creative husband, Paul Taylor, and the warmth and love of his family, who have given me so much affection and support – and that includes the first Mrs Taylor, Maggie Pinkney.

“My clever and amusing doctors, Gaynor Simmons and Bob Millar, who have guided me through the last seven years of breast cancer and best of all shown me that death is just a part of life.

“I am so grateful to them, as it has meant that I have genuinely accepted this and taken joy from all my life.

“The darling people of Woodend, who made Paul and I so welcome, and always up for a laugh.

“And to Frosty the Showman – for giving me a fabulous show like Forum as a brilliant exit line.

“Please note – that after 30 years of media calls, press conferences, before and after drinks and all those opening night parties — enough is enough.

“There will be NO funeral, and certainly no memorial. I am very happy to just float away when called.

“Thank you everyone – and enjoy life. I have.”

Dear friend ● Melbourne Observer columnist Di Rolle pays her tribute to her friend Suzie Howie on Page 12.

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Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

LIVING LIFE IN PEACE

■ Following the rebranding of DMG's FM Vega radio station in Melbourne (and Sydney) to 'Smooth 95.1' in May this year, when I write my weekly column, my Porch is filled with relaxing music and in the company of David Reyne, David Campbell, Cathy Dinn, Mike Perso, Cameron Daddo, Lionel Richie, Richard Wilkins, Ed Philips, Michael Buble, Mark Robinson, Byron Webb, Ty Frost and Jason Donovan.

Although this may be reading as the beginning of a Porch Thought column about and my smooth Porch friends, it's not.

Smooth 95.1 has enriched my life by connecting me to some of the greatest songs, artists and lyrical poets that appeal to me.

The late Eva Cassidy's beautiful interpretation of Somewhere Over The Rainbow was played one afternoon and prompted me to watch more of her songs on YouTube; that connected me to her rendition of John Lennon's song Imagine. This made me think of John writing the lyrics to one of the top 100 most-performed songs of the 20th century.

Questions then began bouncing around in my mind. 'Did the lyrics easy flow for John? 'Did he write it his home in Tittenhurst Park, England? What inspired him - a newspaper clipping, a tree, the sky, Julian or perhaps looking into Yoko's eyes?

What inspired him to reach out to the world with words that would encour-

Global Porch Thoughts age generations to imagine all the people living for today, in a place without countries and with nothing to live or die for?

In the song, John also suggested we may consider him to be a dreamer and stated that he's not the only one.

So, through further Google searching and entering different key word combinations, I located an Australian 'World Peace' crusader in Sydney, Anatole Kononewsky.

Anatole believes global world peace is not a difficult task to achieve through his vision that encompasses his concept of a global charter he has termed, Move:Link:Give.

On his peaceful Porch, author, philanthropist and businessman Anatole, explained that we can achieve world peace through adopting Move: Link: Give and creating a world where we each live to give and add value to our neighbours and their children's lives.

What does John Lennon's song Imagine mean to you?

It represents the whole potential of going beyond what you think is possible. Within our hearts we form intuition and inspiration. It's all about imagining and going outside your mind and dreaming possibility.

Off The Porch Thought For The Day Susan Barton Founder, Lighthouse Foundation "When we reflect on our lives and the core of our being - our contribution to children must always rate highest - for without the love for our children our existence may prove meaningless. Encouraging and helping others to meet this challenge is our responsibility.

Let's advance the sentiments of Soft Diamond Light bringing harmony and synergy among each and every one of us."

You founded the group Move: Link: Give (MLG) in the 90s, how did that come to be?

Move: Link: Give was based on a project that began in 1993. When I researching for a documentary titled we filmed, Our Children's Future In Our Hands, I discovered there were so many initiatives and groups already working to support our children's future. We developed an umbrella group called Before It's Too Late, where we could further support all these groups.

What is the mission of MLG? Move is an acronym for 'motivating and empowering' the community, empowering the people and empowering businesses.

Through LINK, we created networking opportunities where likeminded groups met and exchange ideas. GIVE (Getting Involved Very Easily) was a concept of raising awareness and getting the community involved, including individuals and businesses would gave within their means.

It was an effective program that ran for seven years. When MLG wound up, we gave all our funds to the Lighthouse Foundation in Melbourne.

Apart from the Lighthouse Foundation, what other organisations did you work with?

We linked with Jim Stynes when he was starting the Reach Foundation. We also worked with Worawa Aboriginal College, Ardoch Youth Foundation and Breaking the Cycle.

We brought together groups that were looking at both ends, of not only dealing with the really traumatic and difficult issues, but we were also looking at creating programs that were innovative to empower children.

Peter and Beverley Brock were advocates and spoke at our events and Max Walker became our patron. Robert Kiyosaki was our spokesperson.

What was your motivation to create MLG? Children. All children are a viable component of our future. When I had my grandchildren around 10 years ago, it ignited my interest in supporting the future for all children.

I contemplated what was the single most contributing factor that usually goes wrong on our planet and also everything that goes right, and the further and deeper I thought, I kept coming back to the way we support, raise and develop our children.

● Anatole Kononewsky My work was inspired by two Did you work with children on pinnacle experiences imperative to any level before creating MLG? I was working at the Institute of my spiritual growth - a meditation Criminology in the 70s. I read a re- experience in 1993 and the perforport and it stated that every dollar mance of a song I wrote for my spiriwe invest on early childhood devel- tual teacher in 1997.

It promotes the idea of manifestopment will save hundreds of thousands of dollars by the time they ing one's full potential in their spiritual selves into physical reality and grow up.

What will it take most of all to can be ordered online www.2ordernow.com achieve world peace?

Forty per cent of the sales of Soft It is about ending the whole cycle of abuse that we have on the planet Diamond Light will be donated to and allowing a child to grow-up to the Lighthouse Foundation in feel safe, secure and successful to Melbourne. Why is the work of the LHF important to you? reach their full potential.

The founder, Susan Barton is a 'World Peace' ultimately comes from peaceful people and peaceful saint in my opinion. Having worked people grow from being peaceful with children for 30 years, her Foundation looks at the both sides of what children.

Your latest project is based on my component is all about.

They look at ending the cycle of your theory called 'Universal Manifestation Principle,' which explains child abuse by looking at quality as how everything is empowered by well housing and educating children. innate intuitive intelligence that With the support of the community comes into physical manifestation and the businesses, it empowers the in the form of artwork, literature children to become even greater.

What is your Porch Thought of and music. How have you prethe Day? sented this?

Life is far more remarkable than I have just released Soft Diamond Light - a beautifully boxed timeless we think. It's like the song 'Imagine', treasure trove of my personal enlight- it's where you go, and when you get enment experiences in a colour vi- there, it's even better than what we brant, hardback book and music CD. thought was possible.

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Page 5

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‘She certainly was an ultra dynamic ‘pocket rocket’, but no-one ever said NO to Suzie!’

Suzie Howie. Extraordinary woman.

Twitter tributes

● Suzie Howie ■ Nancy Cato: “Vale dear freind Suzie Howie. Everyone is right you were a gal who comes along once-in-a-lifetime. So blessed to have known you.”

■ Mark Borkowski: “The best publicist in the southern hemisphere passes. RIP Suzie Howie Publicity Queen.”

■ Geoff Dunn: “What a fabulous life.”

■ Danielle Lonnon: “Vale Suzie Howie. I first met you when I was 15 for Aspects Of Love. You taught me more theatre etiquette that week than you can ever imagine.”

■ Amanda Woods: “Suzie Howie ... you will be missed! And your farewell letter brought a tear to my eye. RIP.” ■ George Kapiniaris: “Shocked to hear about Suzie Howie. A great lady and a great publicist ... very sad news.”

■ Brian Buchanan: “Can only echo others comments on Suzie Howie. Been a long time but remember a great lady.”

■ Lara Mulcahy: “RIP the fabulous true one-of-a-kind Suzie Howie. She was the Queen of publicists and will be sadly missed for our industry and world.”

■ 3AW Nightline (Bruce, Phil, Simon and Ken): “Very sad to hear of the passing of Suzie Howie. She was much loved by all of us.”

■ Steve Bastoni: “Had the pleasure of working with Suzie on a couple of occasions, she was a great gal, full of vitality and humour. Vale Suzie Howie.”

■ Peninsula Short Film Festival: “RIP Suzie Howie. She loved theatre and theatre people and was at the top of her field for many years. She will be sadly missed.”

■ Celia Hirsh: “Vale Suzie Howie. A true professional, May she rest in peace.”

■ Anna O’Byrne: “Vale Suzie Howie. I will never forget what you did for me and the incredible things you did for our industry.”

■ Bryce Corbett: “Vale Suzie.

A true class act.”

● From Page 3 ■ Showbiz couple Bob Phillips and Judy Banks-Phillips said: “What sad news. We started dealing with Suzie radio wise some 20 years ago - when 3RPP-FM was very much a struggling community station.

“To her credit, she afforded us the same respect that she did for major stations like 3AW and 2GB, and brought us some of the biggest names in showbiz.

“She certainly was an ultra dynamic ‘pocket rocket’, but no-one ever said NO to Suzie!

“And what a gracious lady. The last message we got from Suzie : ‘I love you guys’.”

Media identity Melissa Hoyer said: “Suzie was the real deal. No games. No bullshit. Not many like her in the PR field like that anymore.

May she RIP.” Broadcaster Wendy Harmer said: “Very saddened to hear of the death of Suzie Howie. A great dame.

Very feisty and utterly professional.

My condolences to Paul and family.”

Gavin McDougall said: “Suzie Howie personally introduced me to some of Australia’s and the world’s top entertainers. Always on a mission, always with a smile. RIP.” Matthew Westwood remembered: “Suzie Howie was the first person I ever met with a mobile phone in the early 1990s. She will be missed.”

Journalist Jonathan Green wrote: “Oh Suzie Howie. That is so tremendously sad. She was utterly, unambiguously, completely, the most wonderful person.”

Class act

● Suzie Howie (centre) holds court with Natasha Stipanov and Suzanne Carbone. “I adored her,” said Natasha. Suzanne Carbone wrote: “God bless the showbiz bible, the Melbourne Observer. Suzie loved seeing a certain media identity pictured week after week.”

● Melbourne video blogger Megan Castran said: “I can probably count on one hand the people other than family who have had a profound influence on my life. Suzie Howie was one of these people and she passed away after a battle with cancer.

“Suzie gave me my very first chance with my You Tube videos in a public arena. I called her and asked if I could do some backstage videos at Wicked, which was about to open in Australia. Nobody was doing this back then and You Tube was so new -but she believed in me at a time when a lot of people wondered what on Earth I was doing.

“Suzie's PR skills were amazing. She was so organised and every event she looked after ran like clockwork. She would boss us all around and get it all happening and all the media loved her. It is with a very heavy heart and lots of tears that I say goodbye and thank-you to this amazing woman.”

■ Matt Simpson: “The lights should be dimmed at theatres around the country for Suzie Howie. A class act with such a passion for life. RIP dear Suzie.”

■ Peter Hitchener: “The entertainment industry mourns the passing of celebrity publicist Suzie Howie who worked on countless productions.”

■ Sonia Kruger: “The last and best of her kind. She brought wit and grace to arts. RIP Suzie.”

■ Helen Kapalos: “Thinking of the legendary Suzie Howie today.

RIP.” ■ Jennifer Hansen: “Suzie Howie - such a wonderful person who did so much for the industry will be missed.”

■ Derryn Hinch: “Suzie Howie.

Much more than the Queen of PR. Professionally and personally a classy, brave act.”

■ Dean Jamie Dreiberg: “Sad to hear that Australian theatre’s finest publicist Suzie Holwie passed away. Most appreciative of the work she has done for our industry.”

■ Joanna Ampil: “To the classy lady that is Suzie Howie. RIP and thank you for everything.”

■ Rohan Tickell: “Very sad to hear of the passing of the extraordinary Suzie Howie. Never a dull moment when she was about.”

■ Darren Levin: “They sure don’t make publicists like her no more.”

■ Kate McLennan: “Sad to hear about Suzie Howie. When I was a box office chic she was my fave publicist. Always flanked by gorgeous ladies.”

■ Helen Razer: “Vale Suzie Howie. The last and best of her kind. She brought wit and grace to arts PR. Trust she is with her spaniels.”

■ Paul Makin: “Saddened by the death of Suzie Howie. Lost count the number of times she helped me get interviews. RIP Suzie.”

■ Nicole Cleary: “Dear Suzie Howie, the best PR in the biz and a friend to all photographers. I will miss your beaming smile.”

■ Julia May: “Shedding a tear at the news of Suzie Howie’s death.

The world has lost a firecracker.

She was hilarious, crazy and utterly special ... Watching Suzie Howie boss around the inimitable Cameron Mackintosh in London last year was perhaps the most fun of my journalism career.”

■ Virginia Gordon: “Muchloved, true legend Suzie Howie gives us a lesson in how to face death. What a generous, funny, life-afirming woman.”

■ Kurt Sneddon: “Suzie Howie gave me my first break into mainstream musical theatre gigs. So shocked and saddened. She was such a kind, warm soul.”

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City Desk

Melbourne

Observer

The hottest news about Melbourne’s A-listers

The Buzz

Advance Australia Fair

Half a mo, Bert

● Christie Whelan

● Bert Newton ■ Melbourne TV legend Bert Newton is growing some extra hair - all in aid of MoVember, the cause that supports research into prostate cancer and male mental health.

MoVember officially starts tomorrow (Thurs., Nov. 1) but Bert has had a bit of a head start ... showing off the beginnings of his moustache at the opening night of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday night.

Miss Nude World

● Cassandra Jane ■ Melbourne burlesque artist ‘Cassandra Jane’ has won the title of Miss Nude World, Rita Fontaine advises.

■ Melbourne Observer columnist Yvonne Lawrence is on leave. Her column will return in November.

Rosemary

■ Christie Whelan is to sing the national anthem at next Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup meeting.

The musical comedy star, currently playing in A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum at Her Majesty’s Theatre, will be a special guest at the Flemington Racecourse/ It will be Christie’s first Cup meeting. Normally there would be a Forum show on Tuesdays, but it is taking a break for the Cup holiday.

Christie will wear a gown by Toni Maticevski.

Vicar of Dibley at Beaumaris

WINDY TIMES FOR JOHN-MICHAEL

■ His production of More Sex Please We’re Seniors is due to debut tonight (Wed.) at the Comedy Theatre ... but author John-Michael Howson won’t be there.

‘JMH’ is in America, co-hosting a tour of the north-eastern region, with travel agent Anne Rogers.

The north-east is being hit by ‘Hurricane Sandy’, and the forecast for the Washington DC area was for has ‘catastrophic’ conditions, with residents told to “expect the worse”.

John’s 25-day tour commenced with an extended stay in New York, moving north to Connecticut, and Rhode Island, with visits to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.

There were plans to enjoy Boston before heading inland to more of the pretty New England states with their stunning mountains, forests, towns and villages.

● Georgy Charles plays the title role in The Vicar of Dibley, being presented by Beaumaris Theatre from November 9 December 1 at 82 Wells Rd, Beaumaris.

Directed by Fred Pezzimenti, The Vicar of Dibley is adapted from the British TV series starring Dawn French as the Vicar Geraldine Granger.

Presented in cabaret style. BYO drinks, glasses and nibbles.

Tickets: $30/$27. Bookings: www.beaumaristheatre.com.au Enquiries: 9583 6896.

Photo: Emily McCoy

Aaron wins 3MBS performer award ● John-Michael Howson

■ Mick Gatto and wife Cheryle are due to be on the red carpet at the opening night of More Sex Please, We’re Seniors at the Comedy Theatre tonight (Wed.) So too will be his bête noir, broadcaster Derryn Hinch. Also expected at the first night are Marina Prior and Grant Piro, Jo Hall, Trevor Marmalade, Julie Anthony, Colleen Hewett, Tony Bartuccio and Caroline Gillmer, John Wood, Colette Mann, Geoff and Vivien Cox, Robert Grubb, Stefan Dennis, George Donikian, Mike Larkan, Helen Morse, Rachel Berger, Brigitte Duclos, John Foreman, Jeanne Pratt, Lillian and Richard Frank, Tommy Dysart and Joan Brockenshire, Brian and Sue Mannix, Alex Rathgeber, Ken James, Val Jellay, Patsy King, Jackie Woodburne, Barrie Cassidy, Jan Russ, Glenn Ridge, Simon Palomares, Annette Allison, Jeremy Kewley, Alan Pearsall, Amanda Levy, Blake Bowden, Josh Piterman, Pete Smith, Reg Gorman, Nadia Tass and David Parker, Antonio Zeccola, Ralph Carr, Glenn van Oosterom and Anthony Costanzo.

Melbourne Moments Newly appointed

● Rosemary Clooney ■ Kevin Trask’s popular Whatever Happened To series this week looks at the showbiz career of Rosemary Clooney. Turn to Page 22 for Kevin’s weekly column.

Under The Clocks

■ Internationally respected scientist and scientific communicator, Professor Tim Entwisle, has been appointed as new Director and CEO of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Elaine Canty, Chairman of the Royal Botanic Gardens Board Victoria, made the announcement on Monday.

Professor Entwisle will take up his new role in March 2013.

The Royal Botanic Gardens' current Director and Chief Executive, Dr Philip Moors, will retire in November after 20 years at the helm.

● Lotte Betts-Dean, Adoria Li, Lina Heeseung Park and Aaron Ch'ng are pictured at Sunday’s 3MBS Young Performer of the Year Award held at St John’s, Southgate. Observer arts contributor Julie Houghton compered the event. More details on Page 56.

What’s On In Melbourne

● Professor Tim Entwisle

Publicist Helen Reiser says the Day Of The Dead Fiesta will be held ★ at Newmarket Hotel, St Kilda, tonight (Wed.) from 6pm-12 Midnight.

Golden Days Radio 95.7FM Manager Alex Hehr is donning the Santa ★ hat for a Christmas function to be held for supporters of the seniors broadcaster, at Glen Huntly late next month.

Justine Caldwell tells us the opening night of the Circus Showcase ★ 2012 featuring the National Institute of Circus Arts graduating students will be held at Chapel Of Chapel, Prahran, on Thurs., Nov. 22.

Stefanovic and Lisa Wilkinson will present Nine’s Today Show ★Karl from the Bourke St Mall on Friday (Nov. 2).

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012

People Melbourne

Surrey Music Café

● Surrey Music Café founder and presenter Jeffrey Woolhouse celebrated the 100th event on Friday.

Malcolm Threadgold's photo feature is on Page 70.

Send news to editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

Wendy and Peter Pan

● Marcie Jones and Normie Rowe were reunited on stage on a cruise ship ‘double bill’. It was truly the ship that rocked ... heavy seas on the final night saw the popular female entertainer throw up overboard, just before going on stage.

G’day Mussels

● Peter Russell-Clarke ■ A large crowd gathered at the Australian Mussel Fest event held at the Village Brasserie (formerly Belgian Beer Cafe) on Sunday, featuring Peter Russell-Clarke.

Pictures on Page 39.

Fax: 1-800 231 312

Music Hall murder

● Gavin Baker and Carol Owen in Eltham Little Theatre's Murder At The Music Hall, opening on November 15. More details in Cheryl Threadgold’s Local Theatre feature on Page 66.

Photo: Tim Bushell

Top awards for Traf. students

● Observer subscriber David ‘Wombat; Lyons tells us that Year 10 students Estelle Fraser and Sarah Hartnell have won prizes in the Science Times International Science Poetry Competition. The Trafalgar High students were recognised with major prizes. Sarah was runner-up in this International competition, for her poem entitled The Science, narrowly beaten by a student from Seattle, USA. Estelle received a ‘Very Highly Commended’ award for her poem On Psychology.

Gwen, Glenn ● Gwen Robbins was the special date for Melbourne comic actor Glenn Robbins at Her Majesty’s Theatre at the weekend.

Positively good friends

Dedicated to Suzie Howie ● Norm Beamen and wife Annie were at the Channel 7 newsroom at Docklands on Friday night for Norm’s retirement send-off after 47 years in journalism. A prop from one of his most famous stories, Tony Mokbel’s wig, also made a special appearnce.

● Week after week, Melbourne publicist Suzie Howie looked to this spot on this page for a photo dedicated to her. As a farewell picture, Paul Castran, Suzanne Carbone and Megan Castran lined up for the Observer photographer at the opening night of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Page 11

Latest Showbiz News

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

STARS LINE UP FOR ROB Observer GUEST ENDOWMENT GALA In This 80-Page Edition

Suzie Howie: Our tributes ....... Pages 3, 6, 12, 18 City Desk: Half a mo, Bert ................... Page 9 Melbourne People: In the picture ......... Page 10 Theatre: Chitty Chitty cast named ........ Page 11 Di Rolle: Tribute to a dear friend .......... Page 12 Long Shots: The Editor’s column .......... Page 18 Nick Le Souef: Outback legend ........... Page 22 Melb. Confidential: Magda’s friction ..... Page 25 Readers’ Club: Birthdays, fun ............. Page 30 Mussel Festival: Photo feature ........... Page 39 Victoria Pictorial: Nostalgic photos ...... Page 42 Forum first night Movies, DVDs Local Theatre TV, Radio news

Latin Soul on Cup weekend

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

First time for everything

● Matthew Fagan and Crystal Laine ■ The Qdos Arts and Sculpture Park in showcasing his impressive guitar technique Lorne is the venue for the Voyages Latin Soul on 10-string guitar and maton ukele.

Performance on Saturday (Nov. 3) at 8.15pm Ibrahim Ferrer from The Original Buena Featuring the fire of flamenco and the pas- Vista Social Club says, "Matthew has a Latin sion of tango from the deep flamenco of the soul and we love his playing so much that we south of Spain to the Middle East, to Tango want to take him back home to Cuba.” clubs of Buenos Aires Argentina and the muPerformance: Saturday, November 3 at sic of Astor Piazzolla and Dyens and more.

8.15pm Guest singer Crystal Laine will sing viVenue: Qdos Arts and Sculpture Park, 35 brant and joyous Brazilian Bossa Nova and Allenvale Rd., Lorne jazz songs such as Girl From Ipanema, One Admission: $25 (cash or credit payment at Note Samba and Manha De Carnaval. door) Meal available at 6.30pm for extra cost.

Crystal’s warm English/Portuguese vocals Bookings: 5289 1989 qdos@iprimus. combine with Matthew Fagan’s fiery virtuosic com.au performance of Spanish and Latin music, - Cheryl Threadgold

ZORRO, TOO CUNNING TO CATCH ■ Italian Comedy Players are presenting Zorro-Il Mascherato at the Brunswicl Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre.

The production will be presented bilingually in Italian and English There will be intrigue, drama and fun for all in the production by Johnston McCulley, adapted by Dino Nicolosi Lively performances are promised from a talented local cast of bilingual actors .

Tickets: $25, $20 Concession Venue: Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre, Cnr Sydney Glenlyon Rds, Brunswick Dates: 8pm, Wed.-Sat. Dec. 12, 13, 14, 15. 3pm matinee, Sun., Dec. 16 Bookings: Dino Nicolosi, 0402 093 037 E: nicolosi@bigpond.com theitaliancomedyplayers.com - Christine Carbone

● Lucy Durack ■ The Rob Guest Endowment Gala Concert is to be held on Monday November 19 at Her Majesty’s Theatre.

Hosted by Bert Newton, Lucy Durack and Rob Mills the night will feature performances by some of Australia’s finest musical theatre stars, including the casts of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum and South Pacific.

Under the musical direction of Kellie Dickerson, these stars will perform alongside the six talented young finalists all vying to become the fourth recipient of the Rob Guest Endowment. “ It is a unique night, with performances from current Musicals and many musical theatre stars performing together in some cases for the very first time, ” said John Frost.

Judges Kellie Dickerson, Jason Coleman and Stuart Maunder have selected the six finalists: Kirby Burgess (An Officer & A Gentlemen), Andy Conaghan (South Pacific), Euan Doidge (A Chorus Line, Legally Blonde the Musical), Samm Hagen (Rock of Ages), Glenn Hill (Legally Blonde the Musical, Dr Zhivago) and Allyce Martins (Wicked). These finalists will perform with a full orchestra .

Recipients receive the opportunity to study in New York under the guidance of the best that Broadway has to offer to the value of $10,000. .

Date: Monday, November 19 Time: 7.30pm Tickets: $55 - $125 Bookings: Ticketek on www. ticketek.com.au or 132 849

■ Beaufort 73-year-old Bill Carteledge has taken his first train ride, despite living alongside the railway line for years. He took a trip to Ballarat to celebrate his birthday.

Banksia cash returns ■ Receivers for collapsed non-bank lender Banksia Securities say investors will receive a “meaningful return” on their investment, but are not likely to recover all of their funds. Banksia owes about $660 million to some 3000 investors.

Arson Squad probes ■ A fire that destroyed a Maiden Gully mud brick house is being treated as suspicious by Bendigo region Police.

Drove getaway car ■ Corio mother Leanne Hancock, 31, accused of driving the getaway car in two armed robberies in Norlane, has pleaded guilty to the crimes. She will appear in the County Court at Geelong for sentencing on November 19, says the Geelong Advertiser.

AFL windfall for Wang.

■ A multi-million dollar windfall is expected to result from the AFL NAB Cup blockbuster in Wangaratta next year.

Richmond and Essendon will play in the March 2 fixture at the Wangaratta Showgrounds, which is expected to attract 11,000 people, reports The Chronicle.

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 PREREQUISITES FOR BECOMING A POLITICIAN 5. An ability to act like an idiot in public.

4. A taste for luxury food, travel and accommodation.

3. Being able to string several dozen words together that mean absolutely nothing.

2. Ability to produce more ‘porkies’ than Bertocchi at Christmas.

1. Being able to say "No" when the entire country knows it's "Yes".

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012

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Hollies to visit Melbourne

Di Rolle

Welcome back Ringo Starr

● Ringo Starr and his All Star Band Photo: Rob Shanahan ■ “Everything’s better when there is a Beatle is in the house”, so says the Niagara Falls Review and how right they are!

Ringo Starr proved that two years ago when he opened his All-Star Band tour at the Niagara Fallsview Casino, and he somehow topped that show with the kick-off of his 2010 in the same review.”

Ringo is bringing that tour to Australia. The line-up of the band is sensational: Todd Rundgren, Gregg Rolie, Mark Rivera and Steve Lukather among the band members.

Ringo and his band will be in Melbourne at Festival Hall on February 16, and tickets are available through Ticketmaster 136 100 www.ticketmaster.com.au For more information about the tour see www.ringostarr.com Tickets on sale November 7.

And as I remember oh so well The Beatles performed on the stage of Festival Hall before, without Ringo!

So he is stepping onto a very hallowed stage.

● The Beatles at Festivall Hall in June 1964

I love my job! with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE

KIND, GENEROUS, TOUGH AND STRAIGHT ■ My page is dedicated to the wonderful unique Suzie Howie.

She was a force of life like no other. I loved her a lot.

She was a friend and a colleague. An intelligent, great reader, loved travel, loved her work, her life and her friends.

A woman of superb taste, she was kind and generous and tough and straight. I always knew where I stood with Suzie.

She was the best.

She made PR into ER – she made it the most important part of what we do.

Result oriented and devoted to her craft there will never be another Suzie.

I cannot believe I won’t see her again at book club and have her give her wonderful opinions on the books we read.

The most precious of memories I am left with from knowing this superb woman.

Suzie Howie will improve PR in heaven so much.

She will be up there organising pic opps and media launches and they will wonder what has struck them.

It was a privilege to have called Suzie Howie a friend and an honour to have worked with her.

On with it!

● The Hollies (story, top right)

■ It is so good to see so many of the older groups coming to Australia. I am particularly excited about the forthcoming tour of The Hollies. I loved their great songs and they were such a part of my growing up.

Yes the long awaited Australia tour of The Hollies has been announced. To celebrate their 50th anniversary, they will tour in February.

The Hollies have been responsible for a remarkably varied and intriguing catalogue of music. What’s more, this is one of the very few bands who have retained their status, dignity and cool – never descending to the revival package circuit, yet still regularly selling out major venues all over the world in their own right.

The legendary UK group pioneered the use of the three-way vocal harmony in pop music. To witness originals – guitarist and vocalist Tony Hicks and drummer Bobby Elliott with Peter Howarth, Ray Stiles, Steve Lauri and Ian Parker – the live performance is pure Hollies: trademark harmonies coupled with sheer musical prowess – their anthems promise to bring the concerts to a crescendo and welldeserved recognition – winning over a new generation of fans.

It is true that “The Hollies created some of the greatest songs of our time.”

Melbourne Arts Centre, Hamer Hall, Saturday, February 9. Bookings www.artscentremelbourne.com.au A must see concert! ● See photo, bottom left

■ Suzie will be cherished for a long time, and she would be saying to me “Come on Di, get on with it.”

So get on with it I will. The Spring Racing Carnival continues and one of the most exciting things that is happening at Flemington is Schweppes Australia has announced its ambassador for the Melbourne Cup

v

e

r

y

part of the event’s history.

“Most people have heard of the Kentucky Derby’s Mint Julep and associate Pimms with Royal Ascot, but this will be the first time the Melbourne Cup Carnival has a signature drink, the Flemington Fling,” said Samantha.

I wonder if Camilla and Charles will try it!

I will be popping in to see Samantha when she will be appearing at the bespoke Flemington Fling Bar, throughout the Melbourne Cup Carnival!

This is the first time in the unique partnership with Schweppes Australia and the Victoria Racing Club, one which has spanned more than 35 years, that there has been the creation of an official cocktail of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

● Di Rolle and Suzie Howie. Photo: Jim Lee Carnival’s signature It was this pedigree cocktail, naming Miss and Samantha’s fun Universe alumnus and down–to-earth Samantha Downie as personality that the face of the Flem- singled her out as Schington Fling. weppes Australia’s Samantha Downie choice as their ambasfirst came to promi- sador for the nence in the fourth Flemington Fling, a season of Australia’s role that will see Next Top Model of Samantha showing which I am a big fan. Australians how easy Winning judges and it is bring cocktail hour the nation over with back into their homes. her warm personality Samantha, a keen and never-say-never racing fan, said it was attitude, going on to be an honour to be amvoted Australia’s bassador for the signaFavourite Top Model, ture drink of the Samantha was then Melbourne Cup Carsecond runner up in nival.

Miss UniverseAustra“It’s so exciting to lia 2011 and has since be a part of the been dividing her time Melbourne Cup Carbetween modelling nival and work with commitments and the such an established business that she runs and progressive with her mum, offer- brand, as well as be ing home cooking involved in a project classes. will be an important ● Samantha Downie

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Page 13

Buying Guide

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Page 15

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Observer

Showbiz News

Wizard of Oz in Elwood

CLARE WILL BE THERE Theatre Chitty Chitty

● Rachael Beck ■ The cast has been announced for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang which opens at Her Majesty’s Theatre on January 30, after its Sydney season which premieres on November 17.

Led by David Hobson, Rachael Beck Alan Brough, Jennifer Vuletic, George Kapiniaris and Peter Carroll the show also features Todd Goddard, Tyler Coppin, Philip Gould, Tony Farrell, Sophie Carter, Shannon Clark and Andrew Marshall.

Anthony Garcia, Michael Kilbane and Max Walburn will take on the boys’ role of Jeremy, while Ashleigh Ross, Rose Shannon-Duhigg and Jasmin Younger will play Jemima.

The men and women’s ensemble cast are: Jan De Pietro, Alex Given, Mark Hill, Andrew Kroenert, Rubin Matters, Jensen Overend, Anthony Pepe, Nathan Pinnell, Damien Chambers, Nicholas Jones, Alicia Attwood, Francine Cain, Ashleigh Hauschild, Meg Hoult, Emily PaddonBrown, Annabel Knight, Stefanie Turner, and Brooke Lowery.

● Clare Bowditch will be headline performer ■ An extensive contingent of approximately 500 local and international music industry professionals are set to converge in Melbourne from November 15 - 18 to share music industry knowledge in open discussions, forums, one-on-one sessions, and networking events over four days and nights.

Celebrating its fifth year, the Australasian Worldwide Music Expo (AWME) has established itself as the southern hemisphere’s premier roots music industry showcase, conference and trade event.

AWME Director Simon Raynor has announced that International Music Person of the Year and Australian music legend Michael Chugg will be joined by former Violent Femmes bassist and curator of Mona Forma, Brian Ritchie, as keynote speakers.

“We’ve got one of our strongest conference programs to date, covering topics which strongly reflect current trends within the industry and address some of the issues associated with our geographical isolation from some of the larger music markets in the world,” says Raynor.

Added to the list of speakers are Matt McDonald, Senior Vice President, Artist and Events for CMJ, New York; Rhoda Roberts, Artistic Director of the Boomerang Festival and Head of Indigenous Programming for Sydney Opera House; Erika Elliott, Artistic Director of New York’s celebrated Summer Stage; and contemporary indigenous artist, Leah Flanagan.

Bookings are now open at the venues, which include the Arts Centre Melbourne, The Hi-Fi Lounge, Toff In Town and Ding Dong Lounge.

● Dorothy (Sarah Gousse), Lion (Colin Sephton), Tin Man (Anthony Julian) and Scarecrow (John Davidson) get ready to follow the Yellow Brick Road in MLOC's family musical The Wizard of Oz at the Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Rd, Elwood.

Performances are on November 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 at 8pm, November 10, 17 at 2pm and November 11 at 5pm. Tickets: $32 full price, $30 concession, $28 Children 15 and under.

Bookings: www.mloc.org.au or 9570 4052.

Photo: Trevor Lowther

SPECTACULAR! Your Melbourne Observer

■ Wonderland Fun Park at Docklands will transform into Santa’s Christmas Spectacular from November 17.

The walk-through Christmas Village will include visits to Santa on his throne, photos, Santa’s mailbox, a circus spectacular in the Spiegeltent which features acrobatic elves.

The sessions are from 11am5pm, with some added twilight sessions from 5pm-9pm, at 120 Pearl River Rd, Harbourtown Shopping Centre, near Costco, under the Southern Cross Observation Wheel.

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Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Page 17

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Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

Ash On Wednesday

Melbourne

IF YOU KNEW SUZIE LIKE WE KNEW SUZIE

Becoming a MoBro

Our Doors are Open!

One man's story of his journey in FreeMOsonry

■ Let Long Shots assure readers that we have not overdone our tributes in this edition to Melbourne publicist Suzie Howie, who died on Thursday.

My friend and colleague Di Rolle used the words “life force” to describe Suzie.

Suzie was a good mate to us all. She was firstclass at her job.

Karl Quinn of The Age quoted me to say: “Suzie practised brilliance, but she was very definite in the way she wanted to achieve it.”

PHOTO: 3AW.COM.AU

Long Shots

To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, attend upcoming public events, or to take a tour of the Masonic Centre, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au or 'Like' our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ freemasonsvic for the most up to date information.

■ Suzie kept teaching us life lessons. But she has also taught us how to die with grace.

“Death is just a part of life,” Suzie wrote in her farewell letter.

Last Christmas, Suzie e-mailed me about her health: “I had test results back yesterday to say I am stable, they wont say remission yet, but stable is good.

“So I am happy and will be around for 2012.

It has to be a better year than this one Ash!” In another note, Suzie wrote: “But it was a big struggle Ash to keep just almost on top of things.

“People were very kind to me, and very forgiving of mistakes I made.

“But like you, when you work for yourself, you don’t really stop. heart ops, chemo and 50 thousand doctor visits, I just had to keep going.”

Suzie loved the gag, proving that none of us were taking ourselves too seriously.

We will miss Suzie.

Our feelings at this time are for her husband, Paul Taylor. No words can express the loss he must be feeling.

We’ll miss you, Suzie

Best show: winer

■ In another exchange, early this year, Suzie told me she would tend to her work and her garden for as long as she could.

I described Suzie as “impish”. She would tell me hilarious stories of her times with the nuns at Presentation Convent, Windsor.

And we had a weekly ‘in joke’. Every Wednesday, I would mail a copy of the Observer to Suzie at her Macedon Ranges PO box. And every week our mutual pal, Suzanne Carbone, would pose for a photo at a different Melbourne social event.

Livinia on Royal Walk

● Suzie Howie

Real courage Bob Young Photo: Jennifer Piper After 'Painting The Town Pink' throughout October to raise money for women's health issues, November will see Freemasons across Victoria turning their attention to men's health.

Bro. Bob Young is part of the Masonic Services team at Freemasons Victoria. Next month, he'll also be part of the MoBro. team - Freemasons 'getting hairy' in support of Movember.

Bob says that, for him, it's about getting the message out there. "We did it last year, and it was a fair effort, but I thought we could make a better effort this year," he said.

"At The Big Pink Party on Friday October 19, the Grand Master put the call out and encouraged us all to get involved with Movember. That got me thinking."

"Having developed Type II Diabetes and getting a knee replaced has really driven home the message that I'm not invincible.

“It's made me very aware of the issues facing men and health," he said. "I think we quite often have a bit of a bullet-proof attitude."

Bob says that the link between Movember and Masonic principles is clear.

"Freemasonry is all about the helping hand and the listening ear. It's not a stretch for us to hear about an important cause and just put our hands up to be involved," he says.

"As a matter of fact, I reckon I'm going to be pushing it to catch up with the other two FreeMOsons in the office - they've already hit three figures with their fundraising."

As an ordinarily bearded man, the start of Movember is likely to be more traumatic than the finish for Bob, who says he was, "born with a beard."

"I've started taking off the facial hair already," he says. "I'm hoping that doing it step by step will make it less of a shock, but I think I'll still be feeling pretty naked and hiding all the mirrors."

When asked what he was hoping to achieve by being a MoBro. Bob replied, "I'm aiming to get my hair back."

"But really, this is about being involved, about doing something. I want to be a part of it and make a difference."

You can visit the Freemasons Victoria team at au.movember.com/team/586685

People

editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au

with Ash Long, Editor “For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”

■ Observer reader Audrey Pointon phoned our office on Monday, after she saw Sunday’s preview of More Sex Please, We’re Seniors at the Comedy Theatre.

“It’s the best show I’ve seen in donkey’s ages,” Audrey said, after winning the tickets this month in an Observer competition,

The show officially opens tonight (Wed.).

David, Ted return ■ David E Strassman and Ted E Bare are returning to Melbourne.

The opening night concert at the Athenaeum Theatre will be on Friday next week (Nov. 9).

● Livinia Nixon ■ Melbourne TV presenter Livinia Nixon will lead the Royal Walk on December 2, in aid of the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Livvy will join fellow ambassadors 'Brig and Lehmo', Wayne Schwass, Brent Harvey, Trent Croad, Rohan Smith and Paul Dimattina. at Visy Park, Princes Park, Carlton.

The Royal Walk is aiming to attract more than 2000 walkers including sporting and TV personalities, local heroes, patients, friends, family, dogs, and some of the top surgeons, medical staff practitioners and researchers from the Royal Melbourne Hospital community.

The walk will be a gentle four-kilometre stroll around Princes Park and is accessible to everyone.

The fundraiser is aimed at raising awareness, and to say ‘thanks’ to the community.

Following the Walk there will be food stalls, rides, live entertainment and even a visit from Santa for the kids.

Arts grants for locals ■ Arts Access Australia is announcing the Victorian recipients of the Cultivate professional development grants for artists with disability.

Margherita Coppolino, a photographer, will work with a mentor to further developer emerging technique as she works towards a solo exhibition.

Michael Crane, a writer, will work with esteemed Australian poet Les Murray, who will mentor Michael on a new collection of work.

Eliza Hull, a musician, will be supported to undertake a residency in New York to study at the Berklee College of Music and to work alongside three Grammy award-winning producer and song-writer Pat Dillett.

Peter Davidson is a visual artist and architect.

After acquiring disability later in life, Peter plans to use the Cultivate grant to retrain and familiarise himself with creative techniques in drawing and painting that formed part of his previous professional practice, working towards a solo exhibition.

Maree Roche is a visual artist, who will attend a week-long ceramics conference where international and local artists come together to share their skills through a series of lectures and hands on workshops.

Observer Treasury ● David Strassman

The Melbourne Observer is printed by Streamline Press, 155 Johnston St, Fitzroy, for the publisher, Ash Long, for Local Media Pty Ltd, ABN 67 096 680 063, of the registered office, 30 Glen Gully Road, Eltham, Distributed by All Day Distribution.

Responsibility for election and referendum comment is accepted by the Editor, Ash Long.

Copyright © 2012, Local Media Pty Ltd (ACN 096 680 063).

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Thought For The Week

■ “To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funnybone.”

- Reba McEntire

Observer Curmudgeon

■ “It has always been my rule never to smoke when asleep, and nver to refrain when awake.”

- Mark Twain

Text For The Week

■ “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

- 1 Peter 4:8

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Page 19

Page 20 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 31, 2012

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