Melbourne Observer. July 1, 2015

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● TV veteran Ron Blaskett and Gerry Gee feature in Jeff Williams’s Archibald Prize entry. The 93-year-old star of Channel 9’s Happy Show and Tarax Show was invited to sit for the portrait.

“It was an honour and a privilege to paint Ron,” Williams told the Melbourne Observer “He is a thorough gentleman and a role model as far as having a life well lived.”

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● Jana Wendt was part of the The Role Models Dinner at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins in support of the National Institute of Integrative Medicine. More photos by Fiona Hamilton on Page 12.

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Showbiz News

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

Patient died after Observer doctor’s ‘misconduct’ In This 132-Page Edition

Young Frankenstein

● Demi Mangione (left) as Inga, Harrison Wall (Frederick Frankenstein) and Benjamin Stokes (Igor) in ARC Theatre’s Young Frankenstein.

Photo: James Oorloff ■ ARC Theatre presents their major musiEventually, of course, the monster escapes cal production for 2015, Young Frankenstein, and hilarity continuously abounds. to be performed at the Banyule Theatre, With a catchy score, Young Frankenstein Heidelberg from July 3-15. should be scientifically-proven, monstrously From the creators of the record-breaking good entertainment.

Broadway sensation The Producers comes Performance Season: July 3 (Gala Openthis monster new musical comedy. ing), July 4, 11 at 8pm, July 5, 10 at 6pm, July The comedy genius Mel Brooks has 11 at 2pm. adapted his legendarily funny film into a brilVenue: Banyule Theatre, 10 Buckingham liant stage creation Drive, Heidelberg.

Grandson of the infamous Victor FrankenTickets: $32/$29. Gala Opening $35 (food stein, Frederick Frankenstein inherits his and drink included).

Sun July 5 all tickets $29 family’s estate in Transylvania. ($1 from each ticket sold will be donated to the With the help of a hunchbacked side-kick, Igor, and a leggy lab assistant, Inga, Frederick Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his Centre. Booking fees may apply).

Further information:: www.arc-theatre.com ancestors.

0435 062 087 tickets@arc-theatre.com “It’s alive,” he exclaims as he brings to life - Cheryl Threadgold a creature to rival his grandfather’s.

■ A patient died after Dr Uday Dixit’s “professional misconduct”, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal has found.

Dr Dixit failed to call an ambulance after he was called to attend to patient Mrs Yamini Patel, 48, a nurse, who could not be woken from sleep.

Dr Dixit was told that Mrs Patel could have taken sleeping tablets. Up to 12 tablets of Tramadol were missing from a blister pack in her bedside cupboard. She never regained consciousness, and died a week later.

She and her family were family friends of Dr Dixit. Mrs Patel had a long history of conflict with her husband, Mr Bhadrayu Patel, the Tribunal heard.

Next day the family called an ambulance, and she was found to have significant brain damage.

Dr Dixit was reprimanded following a complaint to the Tribunal by the Medical Board ofAustralia.

Trinunal Senior Member Ian Proctor, and Members Dr B Burge and Dr A Reddy, heard that Dr Dixit’s conduct “involved a substantial failure to reach or maintain a reasonable standard of competence and diligence”. \ Dr Dixit was also found to have engaged in “unprofessional conduct”.

Dr Dixit has been ordered to undertake education, at his own cost, in patient management, clinical decisionmaking, professional communication with patients and their families, maintaining professional boundaries, responding to medical emergencies, drug interactions and domestic violence. He agreed his conduct was “seriously wrong”.

Disney production ‘Little Mermaid’ at Research

■ Eltham Little Theatre’s youth group presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr from July 3-12 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, Research.

Directed by John Leahy, the story tells of a magical kingdom fathoms below, where the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above.

But first, she’ll have to defy her father King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and convince Prince Eric that she’s the girl with the enchanting voice.

Adapted from Disney’s 2008 Broadway production, Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. features the hit songs Part Of Your World, She’s In Love and the Oscar-winning Under The Sea.

People: Search for Owen Roe ............. Page 10 Showbiz: Jane loves writing ............... Page 11 Photos: Role Models dinner ............... Page 12 Fiona Byrne: Jana takes centre stage .. Page 13 Photos: Survivors luncheon pictures .... Page 14 Melb. Confidential: Doc reprimanded ... Page 15 Long Shots: Welcome Matilda Rose ..... Page 16 Opening Night: Circus Oz ................... Page 17 Gavin Wood: West Hollywood, it’s safe .. Page 18 Melb. Extra: Kevin Trask’s profile ......... Page 19 Victoria Pictorial: Melbourne Zoo ......... Page 21 Radio Newsreaders New Stage Events Movies, DVDs Local Theatre

Observer Showbiz Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

$1m credit card bill ■ Geelong Council staff have racked up a $1.2 million corporate credit card bill in the past year, reports the Geelong Advertiser.

Hunt for bombers ■ Policeare hunting for those responsible for throwing molotov cocktails at a California Gully home in the early hours of Sunday morning, reports the Bendigo Advertiser.

Booze bus blitz

■ Wimmera Police were out in force over the past week, breath testing more than 1500 drivers. "There is a satellite station on the bus so we can track drivers taking an alternate route," Sen Sgt Cleminson told the Wimmera MailTimes.

Colac shooter dies

■ The Colac community is mourning the passing of Jeff Holt, 61, proprietor of Holt’s Gun Shop and Holt’s Mowers and Chainsaws, reports the Colac Herald.

Drug charges

■ Adrian Michael Rettino, 19, of Sale, last week faced court charged with 24 drug-related offences alleging possession of a marketable quantity of border control drugs and importation of a commercial quantity of border control drugs, possessing methamphetamine and dealing with proceeds of crime.

Weather Forecast ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Today (Wed.). Partly cloudy. 9°-16° Thurs. Scattered showers. 6°-12° Fri. Mostly cloudy. 6°-13° Sat. Partly cloudy. 5°-13° Sun. Mostly cloudy. 6°-13°

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5

THE T OP 5 TOP GOLD-PLA TED DIS A STERS GOLD-PLATED DISA OF ALL TIME ● Lily McCarthy and Teigan Fisher-Stamp in Eltham Little Theatre’s Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. Photo: Jazzy Swedosh Performance Season: July Arts Centre, Main Rd., Research 3-12, Evenings at 8pm, Sat and Tickets: $22.50.

Sun matinees at 2pm Bookings: www.eltham Venue: Eltham Performing littletheatre.org.au .

5. Swanston Street.

4. AM Stereo.

3. Ben Elton - "Live from Planet Earth".

2. ASADA. 1. MYKI.

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Flight

Melbourne Observer

Ash

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Flowers at Watsonia Library

The Showbiz Bible

Editor Ash Long is heard: ● 8.45am Wed., with Ron Burke, 3NRG-FM Sunbury ● 10am Wed., with Denis Scanlan, Pulse 94.7 Geelong ● 9.15am Thu., with Bob and Judy Phillips, 3RPP Peninsula ● Roderick Cairns in Yours the Face by Fleur Kilpatrick, part of the Flight festival of new writing.

■ Five new works by some of Australia’s most innovative emerging playwrights will premiere at Theatre Works as part of Flight - a festival of new writing being presented at the Footscray Community Arts Centre and Theatre Works from July 30 to August 23.

A new initiative, developed in partnership with the VCA, Flight is a mini-season of Australian works by writers who have completed the VCA Masters In Writing For Performance, led by acclaimed dramaturg and writer Raimondo Cortese of Ranters Theatre.

Creative Producer Daniel Clarke said while programming selected works, he was presented with so many new scripts from artists who had completed the Masters course, that he was inspired to create a specific context in which to stage them.

“Flight provides a platform to support playwrights create new work whilst enabling experimentation and risk-taking,” says Clarke.

“I am so excited to see these works evolve and to support the careers of these five emerging playwrights.”

Playwrights Fleur Kilpatrick, Morgan Rose, Bridget Mackey and Patrick McCarthy will each present a 10-day season at Theatre Works.

A site specific performance by playwright Chi Vu sees her work commencing from a secret location and moving in and around the Footscray Community Arts Centre.

Raimondo Cortese says: “These plays provide a wonderful opportunity for audiences to experience the diversity of contemporary aesthetic practice currently happening in Melbourne theatre writing, which places this city right at the forefront of experimentation and provocation in world theatre.”

For booking details visit www.theatreworks.org.au/ whatson/event/?id=254 - Cheryl Threadgold The Melbourne Observer is printed by Streamline Press, 155 Johnston St, Fitzroy, for the publisher, 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 Ash Long.

Copyright © 2015, Local Media Pty Ltd (ACN) 096 680 063).

Search for Owen Roe

● Vanessa O’Neill presents In Search of Owen Roe at La Mama Theatre.

Photo: Ponch Hawkes ■ Writer and performer “The stories you will hear Vanessa O’Neill turns the tonight are ‘without wax’. My search for information on her aim is to tell them with hon■ From July 14 – 19 The great grandfather into a dig into esty, boldness and sincerity.”

Butterfly Club will transform her own identity and what it And she does. into The 27 Club, a dimly means to be Irish in contemlit, whiskey-filled den where We don’t all have a heroic porary Australia. the lives, deaths, interviews figure like Owen Roe O’Neill, O’Neill trained as an actor a celebrated fighter in the 1641 and most crucially, the in France and the UK and has Irish Rebellion in our gene songs of some of the finest runs on the boards in Australia pool, but this piece is not about musical names of the 20th with solo shows Happy With rebel songs and the curse of century are being brought Half Your Life (2001-2004) and Cromwell: it’s about family and back to life. more recently Shakespeare’s The 27 Club is the brand identity and celebrating that Women. new offering from the creO’Neill’s telling of her properly. ators of the warehouse proAnd it’s also about how an duction of Sam Shepard’s A family’s history is engaging and Lie Of the Mind. personal. And while it’s her Irish gold rush era immigrant Armed with an array of story, the layers of fact and fic- named Owen Roe O’Neill instruments, and aiming to tion, mythology and mystery, came, in Australia, to be called be a musical performance are pertinent to all who think by another name. of the highest order, the But that’s another story. about where they have come show charts a darkly atmoMusic by the band Foolin In from. spheric journey through the Says O’Neill: “A guiding The Doolin accompanies the works of Joplin, Winehouse, principle in the telling of all piece at the Faraday St, Cobain, Hendrix and these stories was a key lesson Carlton, theatre.

Morrison.

Performance Season: UnI learnt while taking part in the Featuring interviews, 2013 International Actors’Fel- til July 5 journal entries and poetry lowship at Shakespeare’s Times: visit www.lamama. from these luminaries, it is Globe … and the origins of the com.au a highly-charged musical word sincere.

Venue: La Mama Theatre, tour-de-force.

“This related to religious 205 Faraday St, Carlton The production comes statues, some of which had Tickets: $25/$15 from the lives and minds of their cracks and flaws covered Bookings: 9347 6142 Melbourne theatre mainwith wax.

But those who had Running Time: Approx. 60 stays Zack Anthony Curran their flaws uncovered were minutes.

(A Lie Of The Mind, Blood - Review by Martin Curtis Brothers, It’s Only Life ), ‘sincere’ or unadulterated.

Keane Fletcher (The Ten Tenors) and Andrew Kroenert (Show Boat, Chitty ■ Another In Friendship Concert will be presented at the Chitty Bang Bang).

Kadimah, the Jewish Cultural Centre and National Library, Each musical piece has in Elsternwick, at 3pm on Sunday, July 12, been reimagined and exThe program will include the rich and powerful tenor voice plored with synth, guitar, of Shimon Walles, who is at home with the great Italian arias percussion and three-part and all styles of Jewish music. Katrina Noela is often comharmony. pared to Marina Prior, with a repertoire ranging across opera, Bookings for The 27 Club musical theatre and sultry jazz. are highly recommended, as Since arriving in Melbourne from Israel, five years ago, there are only 70 seats per Vered Harel has performed as a soloist and fronts the Latinshow. flavoured band Veod. Galit Klas will entertain in Hebrew, YidPerformance Season: dish and French.

July 14-19 at 8.30pm The Kadimah In Friendship Concerts have been espe(Tues-Sat) and 8pm (Sun) cially popular with the Russian speaking community. It is Venue: The Butterfly produced by master musician Grisha Cveygoren and will be Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne compered by Joe Tigel, recent star of My Name is Asher Lev. Tickets: $25-$32 Performance Details: 3 pm Sunday, July 12 , at the Kadimah, Bookings: thebutterfly 7 Selwyn St, Elsternwick. Tickets: $25 and $20. club.com Enquiries: 9523 9817 or kadimahoffice@iprimus.org.au

The 27 Club

Friendship concert

● Banyule City Council’s Catherine Borg (left), Banyule U3A Creative Knitting Group members Gladys Coombs and Toni Tyers, and Yarra Plenty Regional Library (Watsonia Branch) Manager Barbara Armstrong with some of the handmade flowers for the library column.

Photo: Kerry Bergantino ■ Toni Tyers currently wears two creative hats – she is Heidelberg Theatre Company’s Publicity Officer, and also a member of Banyule U3A’s Creative Knitting Group, which meets fortnightly at the Watsonia Library.

This year, the group is supporting the women’s refuges in the Banyule area with proceeds from sales of knitted and crocheted items, and over the past two years has supported the Olivia Newton-John Biggest Morning Tea charity, and the Cancer Council of Victoria. Both donations were approximately $1000 each.

When Banyule Council Leisure Projects Development Officer, Catherine Borg, requested Toni’s Creative Knitting Group make flowers to cover one of the grey columns in the Watsonia Library as a permanent installation, they were delighted to start work.

Some 10 members of the group have now crocheted or knitted more than 500 colourful flowers from left over scraps of yarn donated or purchased from local opportunity shops.

Toni says originally the Watsonia Library building comprised two modest weatherboard houses built in the 1950s, and the columns were incorporated to support the roof so a large open space could be incorporated in the design.

Toni says members of the group also spend time at a local primary school teaching interested students how to knit.

Medea at Union House

● Naomi Rukavina stars as Medea, opening on July 28 at the Union House Theatre, Carlton.

Photo: Ponch Hawkes ■ The Complete Works Theatre Company presents Medea

by Euripides from July 28-1 at Union House Theatre, Melbourne University.

Directed by Andrew Blackman, the story tells of Medea, prepared to do anything to have a hero’s love: deceive her father, kill her brother, and leave her homeland forever.

But when the ambitious Jason betrays her to marry the King’s daughter, she is grief stricken and becomes an exile in a foreign land.

When hate becomes greater than love … the consequences are beyond imagination.

Complete Works Theatre Company is recognised as one of Melbourne’s leading Theatre in Education companies, and now adds Euripides’ powerful tale of passion and revenge to their stable of successful public seasons.

Running for 15 years, CWTC has worked with more than 150 Australian actors and creatives across their productions, and for this limited season bring together another diverse and talented team.

Medea stars Naomi Rukavina as Medea, and features Christopher Brown, Brigid Gallacher, Philip Cameron Smith and Jennifer Vuletic, with music composed by Finn Cooney.

- Cheryl Threadgold

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 11

Showbiz Interview

Jane loves writing for actors Briefs Sophie in

● Sophie Mirabella ■ Sophie Mirabella has won Liberal preselection for the seat of Indi. The former MP defeated Wodonga businessman Kevin Ekendahl and Melbourne anaesthetist Andrew Walpole at the rigorous preselection conference in Benalla.

Pursuit

■ Police have arrested a Croydon man, 27, following a pursuit which on the Maroondah Highway between Coldstream.

It is alleged that a silver Holden Commodore was involved in a number of collisions The man was charged with conduct endangering persons, evade police, drive in manner dangerous and numerous other traffic offences.

He is remanded to appear at the Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on July 14.

Ice war

■ Sunraysia Community Health will receive $360,000 to tackle the drug ‘ice’ in a $1 million boost for Mildura.

■ Theatrical company 15 Minutes From Anywhere presents the Australian premiere of Cuckoo – a new, intriguing dark comedy by Melbourne playwright Jane Miller, directed by Alice Bishop, from July 8-26 at fortyfivedownstairs.

When a young man arrives on Mel and Leo’s doorstep asking for peanut butter on toast and a Band-Aid, they desperately want to believe it is their missing son … but is he who he appears to be?

Jane Miller is regarded as one of our home-grown, successful contemporary playwrights.

She wrote three full-length plays in high school which were performed, and now has plays produced around Australia and internationally, including the R.E. Ross Trust award-winning True Love Travels On A Gravel Road.

Jane says she loves actors and writing for performance, and last year completed a Master of Writing for Performance at the Victorian College of the Arts.

“I really enjoy creating something and then seeing what actors and a director bring to it,” she says.

“Theatre is an inherently collaborative and mercurial form.”

In 2013 Jane formalised her collaboration with director Beng Oh, establishing independent theatre company 15 Minutes From Anywhere.

Jane says the collaboration has now expanded to include projects working with other artists.

“Last year Beng directed a remount of his production Mein Kampf by George Tabori, and this year we have the wonderful Alice Bishop directing Cuckoo.

“We also have a studio space at Boyd Temporary in Southbank under the Creative Spaces program.”

Jane says she finds plays are like a jigsaw, starting off with one piece and having to find the rest to understand the form it will take.

● Melbourne playwright Jane Miller With Cuckoo, Jane’s aspiration is for the audience to be engaged. If the play inspires them to create their own meaning from what they experience, then she is happy.

“Cuckoo has an element of intrigue and mystery,” says Jane, “so I am looking forward to seeing how an audience responds to that.”

“When it’s a comedy, as this is, I also hope they’ll laugh.”

Cuckoo Performance Dates: July 8-26 (Preview July 8) Times: Tues – Sat 8pm, Sun at 6pm Venue: fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Tickets: $36/$28. Groups 6+ $33. Preview $25 Bookings: fortyfivedownstairs.com or 9662 9966 - Cheryl Threadgold

● Marie Kelly and Barbara Hook were at the Survivors showbiz veterans luncheon held at South Melbourne on Saturday, More photos are on Page 14.

Brutal thoughts and actions

Subtle art of flirting ■ Tunks Productions are offering an all-new take on love, sex, flirting and dating in the modern era with their 2015 production of The Subtle Art Of Flirting, being presented from July 5 to August 9 at The Butterfly Club.

The central characters in the play form the eight sides of an intertwined love-octagon.

Their love stories are messy, hilarious and familiar to anyone who has dated in the past 20 years.

This chemistry further developed by a revolving cast who approach the show with their own onand-off stage entanglements.

The Subtle Art Of Flirting was first published 10 years ago. Wayne Tunks (writer, director, sometime cast member) developed the first incarnation just before the proliferation of dating apps, and the smorgasbord of ‘matching’ websites currently around.

Tunks says this show is one of

Melbourne Observations

with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● Jennifer Monk (left), Jacob Antolini, Katharine Innes, Samuel Yeo and Thomas Kay in The Subtle Art of Flirting his favourites to work on. years ago and is now an integral “Whether our audiences are with part of it.” a bunch of mates looking for a good The six-night season eschews the night out, or on their first tinder date, traditional theatre season, playing they will walk away with a smile on out over six consecutive Sundays at their faces,” he says.

9.30pm. Bookings are highly recom“We are working with a cast who mended. bring their own romantic realities to Date: Every Sunday July 5 – Authe stage. gust 9. Time: 9.30pm. Cost: $25-32 “We have a real life couple, and Venue: The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson a real-life ex-couple. We have some- Place, Melbourne. Ticket link: one who fell in love with the show thebutterflyclub.com

Changes at the Observer

■ There was no issue of the Melbourne Observer last week (June 24) to enable our team members to take a mid-year break. The schedules for advertisers and subscribers will be adjusted accordingly.

■ The Melbourne Observer has discontinued its TV program guide. Readers tell us that they are increasingly using online or electronic program guides.

■ The price for annual mail subscriptions for 45 issues the Melbourne Observer will increase to $290.45 from Wednesday, July 15, 2015.

Annual mail subscriptions can be bought at the discounted price of $99 for the next two weeks.

● Peta Brady, Nicci Wilks and Sarah Ward Photo: Sebastian Bourges ■ I think I’d call the opening of this play a funny and mesmerizing ‘f*** monologue,’ mesmerising in its brutality of thoughts and actions, funny in its seeming absurdity, endless in useage of the word itself.

Shit presents girls who defy gender demarcations, girls who prowl the streets looking for antagonism, girls whose language would make the toughest bikie proud, who never learned how to love, girls who just don’t fit the female mould .

Nicci Wilks, Peta Brady and Sarah Ward echo the rhythm of harsh downtrodden , damaged women with a physicality and ease of language, relentlessly foreboding.

From the motif of looking/escaping through stark window frames, part of a bleak wall that boxes them off, we see into the harsh world that spawned and bred them .

There are few moments of calm; no moments of peace – they are the ‘shit’ of society to be excreted and forgotten; they can not understand and can not inhabit the world we observe.

But they are there, not just in this play … a burning issue and one which writer Patricia Cornelius and director Susie Dee have courageously explored and found voice for .

Designer Marg Horwell’s set suggests an underground tunnel where the girls can stalk and ambush.

Rachel Burke’s lighting and Anna Liebzeit’s sound track underscore the lawless jungle existence of these misfits, locked out of themselves.

There is an overwhelming sense of urgency in everything , yet no sense of expectancy of escape to somewhere better, either in their own minds or in the real world.

Dee and Cornelius feel compelled to say something about the world of women like this ; now it is the world’s turn – what do we say…? Why do these women exist? How can they exist;? Do they deserve to exist ... ?

Shit is a vital piece of theatre, superbly constructed, brilliantly executed.

Performance season: Until July 5 at 7.30pm Venue: MTC Southbank Theatre, The Lawler Tickets: $25 Bookings: 8688 0800 or mtc.com.au 16+ nudity, extreme language - Review by Maggie Morrison

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

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Melbourne People

Role Models Dinner At Sofitel Melbourne On Collins Photos: Fiona Hamilton

● Caryn and Alastair Clarkson

● Avni, Radek and Helen Sali

● Lawrence and Helen Money

● Rasa and John Bertrand

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 13

Love This City! with with

Fiona Byrne Guest Columnist

Jana joins star panel at Sofitel

● Brett McLeod with Justice Betty King at the Role Models Dinner

■ The Role Models Dinner was held at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins on Saturday night in support of the National Institute of Integrative Medicine.

The highlight of the dinner was a series of panels, hosted by Channel Nine's Brett McLeod, featuring inspiring Australians.

This year the guest speakers included media legend Jana Wendt, Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson, America's Cup winning skipper John Bertrand, and Justice Betty King.

Wendt said she was working on a new book, while Justice King, who famously ruled that the Underbelly television series could not be shown in Victoria while certain court cases were proceeding, said she was planning to retire in August.

Funds raised on the evening supported the establishment of NIM Kids, a new paediatric integrative healthcare clinic for the prevention and treatment of illness in children.

Roola Boola time

● Elizabeth Chong with John Blackman

● John Bertrand, Jana Wendt and Alastair Clarkson Photos: Fiona Hamilton

■ “I love a children’s festival”, writes Di Rolle: “I think it’s because as a young girl I didn’t have festivals and fairs; I don’t even recall going to children’s birthday parties so the more children’s festivals the better, I say.

Presented by the City of Stonnington, Roola Boola Children’s Festival is one of Melbourne’s most successful children’s festivals and is held annually for 4 -10 year-olds.

Based on the original lrish meaning of the words Roola Boola which means ‘boisterous fun’, Roola Boola is the answer to all families’ school holiday needs.

Chapel Off Chapel is once again hosting exciting programs of performances, workshops and free activities to entertain and encourage kids to get creative.

Performances spanning dance, music and circus will provide wonderful introductions to theatre, whilst arts workshops will give kids opportunities to try their hand at activities and art forms including magic, crafts and different dance styles ranging from ballet to hip hop.

This year’s program features the Paul Simon of children’s songwriters, Peter Combe, with the Bellyflop In A Pizza Band, the legendary Australian School of Magic featuring the brilliant Cath Jamison, Melbourne City Ballet with a performance of The Magic Toyshop, and Improv Melbourne with a wonderful workshop performance of The Fairytale Cookbook.

“I will be getting my wheelie bins out and joining in the amazing circus skills meets side slipping laughs with Trash Test Dummies, winners of the Best Children’s Presentation at the Adelaide Fringe.

“I am exhausted already. But excited.”

Roola Boola Children’s Art Festival runs until July 10. For more information visit roolaboola.com.au

1.5 million viewers tune into Nine to watch ‘The Voice’ ■ The Voice made a welcome return to our screens this week, topping the ratings for Channel 9.

The Voice had an average of 1.55 million viewers tune in across the five major capital cities to see the first night of the blind auditions, with an average of more than two million viewers when the regional figures were taken into account.

There is no doubt that Nine has made a smart choice selecting British singer Jessie J as the new member of the all star panel of coaches.

She made an immediate impact, with her directness and absence of fawning remarks towards those auditioning.

She appears as though she will bring welcome balance to the panel that includes Ricky Martin, Benji and Joel Madden and Delta Goodrem.

However, in dramatic timing, on the weekend that the new series of The Voice launched in Australia, Jessie J was in hospital in Europe recovering from an operation. Her medical issues, shared by the singer on Instagram, forced the cancelation of her shows in Demark, Bristol and Belgium.

The Voice blind auditions were filmed in Sydney some months ago with Jessie not due back in Australia until the live shows get underway in a few weeks.

Singing astronaut returns

● Chris Hadfield ■ Peter Coronica, founder of the Fingerprint Me Academy, Australia's First youth employment academy, invited Commander Chris Hadfield to the official opening of the Balwyn campus via Skype.

To everyone’s surprise Commander Hadfield actually telephoned the academy during the opening and wished Peter well.

He congratulated Peter on what he is doing to combat youth unemployment, a huge issue globally. \ The academy has named a room in honour of Commander Hadfield, the Canadian astronaut who is famous for singing David Bowie’s Space Oddity which was recorded on board the International Space Station in 2013.

He became an internet sensation with more than 25 million hits and has inspired a generation to believe that anything is possible ... a mantra close to the academy’s heart.

Commander Hadfield was in Melbourne last year as a hugely popular guest of the Melbourne Writers Festival.

He is heading back to Australia for speaking engagements next month.

Catch his show at the Palais Theatre on Thursday, August 20.

For further information or to book tickets go to www.chrishadfield.ca/events

Snow in Melbourne

■ Melbourne is turning into a winter wonderland!

A giant snow dome arrived in Federation Square yesterday (Tues.) to warm people up to the idea of visiting Victoria's snow fields this year.

The snow dome, an initiative of Snow Victoria, was in place for just a day, but attracted plenty of attention.

People could step inside the giant, inflatable snow dome, filled with fluffy snow, native snow-gum trees, and a giant snowman.

X Factor winner Dami Im also stopped by the the snow-dome to meet fans.

Meanwhile, The Project's Gorgi Coghlan has landed the rather nice role of this year's Snow Victoria ambassador.

Gorgi will be hitting the slopes to help promote Victorian snow holidays and show how accessible and fun a trip to Mt Buller, Mt Hotham, Lake Mountain, Falls Creek and Mt Baw Baw can be for families. ● Fiona Byrne is a former journalist and is the Public Relations Manager at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins.

Fiona@fionabyrne.com.au

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Melbourne People

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

‘Survivors’ Half-Yearly Luncheon Rising Sun Hotel, South Melbourne Photos: Ash Long

● Don Jyde and Brian Smith

● Carryl Browne and John Vertigan

● Bill Armstrong and Alex Hehr

● John Page and Bob Taylor

● Bill Passick and Dan Webb

● Denis Scanlan and John Humphries

● Gary Newton, Keith Livingston and Peter Van

● Ray Benson and Ted Ryan

● Denis O’Kane and Ash Long

● Jeff Warden and Bill Page

● Paul Konik and Ralphe Rickman

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 15

Melbourne

Confidential Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

Festival of Puppetry

● Lana Schwarcz in the Melbourne Festival of Puppetry.

■ La Mama Theatre has collaborated with independent company Lemony S Puppet Theatre to curate The Melbourne Festival of Puppetry, a dynamic program of puppet works for adults and children from July 7-12.

By day, in the children’s program worlds unfold out of giant pop-up books, be delighted by incredible creatures and travel the globe into stories weird and wonderful.

By night, the macabre may unnerve you and your world shift as a series of some of Australia’s finest puppet artists present a program for adult audiences.

Presenting works by some of the country’s finest artists, this festival will span across both La Mama Theatre and La Mama Courthouse, as well as a purpose-built mini theatre in the La Mama Theatre Courtyard.

With works presented by About Face Productions, Sanctum Theatre, Little Wing Puppets, Billy Paul and Mr Key’s Presents to name but a few, these highly imaginative and engaging works will transport your soul in the way that only puppetry can.

Lemony S Puppet Theatre says puppetry is a powerful image-based artform using the language of the archetype, symbols and signs to tell its stories.

“It goes deep to the core of what it is to be human – to attach meaning to objects, symbols and signs and to empathise.”

Children’s Program: July 7 – 12, $10 single show, $50 seven shows Adult’s Program: July 8 – 12, $20 single show, $50 five shows Venues: La Mama Theatre and La Mama Theatre Forecourt, 205 Faraday St, Carlton, and La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St, Carlton Bookings and Further Information: lamama.com.au/2015-winter-program/melbournefestival-of-puppetry or 9347 6142 - Cheryl Threadgold

Channel 78 is racing

■ Another channel has just joined thefree-to-air ranks. Channel 78, formerly the home of infomercial channel Fresh Ideas TV, has relaunched as a racing station from the Seven Network in association with Racing Victoria.

Seven’s new channel will be broadcasting the online stream of the Racing.com website until such time as the new RV channel is launched — currently scheduled for August 29.

This is part of its broadcast rights agreement with Racing Victoria and as an interim measure following the cessation of Victorian racing coverage via Sky Racing, The new channel will give viewers in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth access to coverage of all Victorian races.

Unlike other channels on the free to air platform, Channel 78 is broadcasting as an MPEG4 service which should be compatible with recent model tuners.

Discussions also continue with Tabcorp to resume Victorian racing broadcasts on Sky Racing.

Doctor reprimanded over drug prescriptions

■ Victorian general practitioner Dr John Garland has been reprimanded by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, after he pleaed guilty at the Magistrates’ Court to 36 charges relating to drug prescriptions.

Tribunal Deputy President Heather Hambrick - sitting with members Dr B. Collopy and Dr E. Shanahan - heard that Dr Garland failed to recognise signs of drug dependence in patients.

Dr Garland prescribed drugs of depenency to various patients without consulting the medical practitioners who held appropriate permits to prescribe opioid replacement therapy to those patients.

The Tribunal hearing was at the request of the Medical Board of Australia.

“Dr Garland’s prescribing revealed multiple deficiencies in terms of monitoring the frequency, quantity and appropriateness of prscribing,” the Tribunal was told.

“Such prescribing has the potential to expose vulnerable patients to risk.

“Where patents have a valid

therapeutic need for drugs of dependence have a principal prescriber attempting to manage his/her medication regime, concurrent prescribing, particularly without consultation with the principal prescriber, may have detrimental consequences,” said the Tribunal members.

“Health practitioners need to remain vigilant at all times to the signs of drug-dependency. ‘Lost, stolen or destroyed’ prescriptions are possible signs that there may be a drug dependency issue.

“Dr Garland was not alert to these signs “The conduct demonstrates serious shortfalls transcending a num-

ber of areas of practice. We find that Dr Garland’s conduct fell substantially below the standard reasonably expected of a health practitioner of his level of experience.”

The Tribunal said it believed that Dr Garland had put measures in place so there would not be a repat.

It said that at the time of the unprofessional conduct, Dr Garland’s private life included the unexpected death of his father, the death of his father-in-law and the death of a family friend in traguc circumstances.

Dr Garland’s daughter sufered facial injuries requiring surgery, following an accident. He had been diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes.

“We accept that so many unfortunate episodes in a short period may have played some role in afecting his judgement.

“We nevertheless also accept that Dr Garland had not kept himself fully informed and up to date in relation to his obligations as a general practitioner..

Dr Garland is to complete six sessions of professional education including patient management.

Sisters in crime Rumour Mill

Whispers

London!

● Silvie Paladino ■ Melbourne entertainer Silvie Paladino has been invited to join the Melbourne Staff Band at the Olympic stadium London for a Salvation Army congress.

All night

● Simon Owens ■ 3AW producer Simon Owens is hosting the Macqaurie-Fairfax Radio NetworkAustralia Overnight program this week while regular com pere Luke Buna is on midyear leave.

To open Hear It Here First ● Fiona Eagger and Sue Turnbull ■ The Changing Role of Women in the TV Crime Genre will be discussed at the Women In Crime gathering to be held at 8pm on Friday, July 24 at the Rising Sun Hotel, South Melbourne.

Fiona Eagger and Sue Turnbull will be guest speakers. Eagger, producer of Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, will interrogate Professor Sue Turnbull about how the representation of women in television crime dramas has mirrored the trajectory of women over the past 70 years.

Professor Turnbull’s new book, The TV Crime Drama (Edinburgh University Press), argues: “Despite a perception that the television crime drama may be an inherently ‘masculine’ genre …women have played a key role in television crime drama right from the start, not just as a helpless victim or the untrustworthy femme fatale, but increasingly as a major player in the unfolding investigation and always as a potential member of the television audience at home..”

ProfessorTurnbull will illustrate her arguments with segments from different TV crime dramas from Australia, the UK, the USA and other countries.

Tickets: $10 (Sisters in Crime and Writers’ Victoria members/concession)/$15 (non-members) through Eventbrite.

Tickets not sold prior to the event will available at the door: $12/$17. cshute@internode.on.net

Extra week for Rocky

■ The Rocky Horror Show will play an extra week at the Comedy Theatre in Melbourne. This iconic production will now close on July 19.

Happy Tint goes to Court

■ Happy Tint, the North Blackburn firm that features Ric Mitchell voicing radio ads, is seeking a Frankston Magistrates’ Court Rgeistrars’ Hearing session tomorrow (Thurs., July 2) in a case against Alexander Stosic.

Rat Pack does lunch

■ An impressive group of diners was spotted at Riva for Saturday lunch. The Rat Pack media group included broadcaster Derryn Hinch, former Ten News boss Dermot O’Brien, 3AW presenter Darren James, and radio newsmen Denis O’Kane and Tony Tardio.

E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au

■ Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers will open at the AlexTheatre, St Kilda, on Tuesday, July 21, starring Helen Dallimore, Bobby Fox, Josh Piterman and Michael Cormick. It is produced by Enda Markey.

Wedding

● Ric Melbourne ■ Radio man Ric Melbourne celebrated the wedding of his son Richard to girlfriend Porz on Sunday. Ric, once a top-rating DJ on 3DB and 3KZ, now operates his own online radio station from the Gold Coast Hinterland.

Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Melbourne

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Ash OnWednesday

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Dr Who Festival

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● Ash and Fleur Long with latest grand-daughter, Matilda Rose. blended, divorced, Regular attenders, unmulticultural and same- able to be at Saturday’s sex families”. lunch were Ron Tudor, Bob Horsfall, Philip Brady, Pete Smith, Don Kinsey, Bill Duff, Dean ■ Long Shotsis proud to Reynolds, Ian Nicholls, be a member of the Sur- Garry Stewart, Peter vivors group of showbiz Meehan and Ray veterans that meets twice Lawrence. yearly.

The group was formed

by Bert Newton, John Proper and Ron Tudor, over a beer in a GTV-9 caravan after a New Faces episode.

Members, over the years, have included Tv favourites Norm Spencer, Douglas Elliot, Frank Rich, Joff Ellen and Doug editor@melbourneobserver.com.au McKenzie.

Last weekend’s winter with Ash Long, Editor gathering included “For the cause that lacks assistance, convenor Bruce McKay, ● Liz Sullivan ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance recording industry stal- with Pippa Elizabeth For the future in the distance, wart Bill Armstrong, raLiz Sullivan made her And the good that we can do” dio veterans Ralphe ■ name in Melbourne as a Rickman and John Wor- radio presenter on 3XY thy, Keith Livingston, and 3KZ, working with Paul Konik, Alex Hehr, on-air partners including Brian Smith, John Peter ‘Harro’ Harrison Vertigan, Don Hyde and and Peter Meehan.

Dan Webb.

Today, Liz works on a Also there were number of public rela‘names’ including Bob tions projects.

Taylor, Bill Passick, Denis The effverscent Liz Scanlan, John Humph- has become a grandries, Ray Benson, Ted mother, and is pictured ■ “Making the most of today is the best preparation Ryan, Peter Van, Gary welcoming ‘Pippa Eliza- for tomorrow.”

Newton, Jeff Warden and beth’, daughter of Katie - The Buloke Times Bill Page. and Aaron.

Long Shots

● Doctor Who ■ There are big bucks in the Doctor Who business.

BBC Worldwide has announced the first official Australian Doctor Who Festival in Sydney on November 21-22.

Tickets go on general sale from 11am on Monday (July 6). General tickets are $195, and Tardis tickets are $365.

New book

■ Life has certainly changed since Long Shots was a kid in the 1950s and 60s, reading ‘Golden Books’.

Melbourne author Amy Chung has announced this week that she is releasing a LesbianGay-Bisexual-Trans-gender-Queer children's book, Wishful Wedding.

“This book delves into the topic of marriage equality for same gender families,” says Amy. The book is “told through the eyes of a small child from a samesex family, the book is aimed for children 3-6 years.

Amy’s trade is “children picture books for

Survivors

Granny

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● Lauris Garrett, Barbara Garlepp and Barbara Dempster were at the Survivors luncheon at South Melbourne on Saturday. More photos on Page 14.

Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Melbourne Observer shall in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any person or body due to information provided. The information is provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content.

No inference of a party’s guilt or innocence should be made by publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 17

Melbourne People

Circus Oz Gal Nightk Photos: Scott Hone

● Renata Ringin and Tegan Louise

● Mel Ademey and Kate Fong

● Lucy and Kate Edwards

● Hazel Bock and Heidi Victoria

● Spenser Inwood and Ted Baillieu

● Kylie Strange and Jane Pennells

● Kim Smith and Amanda Wight

● Ponch Hawkes and Ian Bracegirdle

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Donation to Traralgon City Band pays for flights Guiding Star keeps drums on beat ■ Terry Heskey of Traralgon Lodge last month presented cheques totalling $1000 to the Traralgon City Band to assist members in their forthcoming tour of Europe.

Traralgon Lodge contributed $200 and a generous grant was approved by the Freemasons Foundation for $800. The Traralgon City Band was delighted with the assistance.

This contribution will help enable the band to fly to Manchester, England, to participate in the Whit Friday Band Concert at Sadelworth.

The crew will also tour the World War I cemeteries at Ypres, Menin,

● Terry Heskey presenting the cheques of $1000 to the Traralgon City Band The Band plays each year at the Fronelles and Villers-Bretonneux concluding with a concert at the Aus- Traralgon Lodge Christmas meeting providing great entertainment for tralian Embassy in Paris.

"The band has several younger mu- members and visitors.

The Traralgon Lodge is hopeful sicians, so for them this will be a truly eye opening experience," Terry said. this night will continue in the future.

Honour for Neil Cheney

● Accepting the cheque from Graeme Brown, Dragon Boat Racing Club President Dick Parry.

■ There's a new sound on the waters of Lake Wendouree in Ballarat. That of the drum masters as they pound away, guiding the rate of paddling, to keep the crews of their dragon boats ahead of their competitors.

Guiding Star Lodge helped keep Dragon Boats Ballarat afloat, with a $1500 donation which the local club will use to buy paddles and other equipment.

Accepting the cheque from Graeme Brown , Club President Dick Parry said the donation was part of the Lodge's exuberance to support the local community. The recent donation follows a similar amount given to the club a year ago.

Funds were raised through barbecues at Bunnings and Masters, and from Lodge raffles.

The club was formed in December 2012 and has a membership of 60, with two boats.

The boats accommodate crews of between 12 and 22 including the drum master and a sweep.

Events range from 200 - 2000 metres to with six kilometre races the maximum.

Crews train on the lake twice a week in the late afternoon.

The club wants to develop Dragon Boat Racing as a growing community sport in the Ballarat district, with teams entering national and international competitions.

Dragon Boat Racing has a special place in Chinese culture. Each year the boats are blessed by a Buddhist monk in a traditional ceremony which includes chants to the spirits to ensure the paddlers are not harmed in any way, the appearance of the 'local Chinese dragon' is a highlight of the ceremony.

Mr. Parry said the focus on the traditional part of Dragon Boat Racing was very important to the sport.

■ When we think about natural disasters like floods and fire, and extreme weather events like cyclones or blizzards, we often visualise how we would react in this type of situation.

Do we really know what to do if faced with a life threatening situation?

Are we really prepared?

Freemasons Victoria Communications Manager, Gabrielle Forman caught up with Inspector Neil Cheney, Freemasons Victoria's most recent Queens Birthday Honours recipient, and a man who knows full well what the repercussions can be when faced with a natural disaster.

Neil, of Footscray St. John's Lodge, received the Australian Police Medal on June 9 for distinguished service.

Neil's efforts in establishing the Blackwood Community Fire Refuge along with his involvement with various community and government organisations to provide emergency services has now been formally recognised.

Neil is the Regional Emergency Management Inspector for the Grampians Region, and prior to this role was the Regional Traffic Inspector.

He is responsible for the coordination of resources and evacuation of displaced persons in the case of an emergency situation.

"It's about preparedness," Neil said.

"In a fire event, some people choose to defend their property, and that's their choice, but for the most part, I coordinate the evacuation of the community to a safer location," Neil said.

Neil said that his role came about as a result of the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009.

"The government implemented a new emergency management strategy after the Black Saturday bushfires, and a number of new positions were created. My role ensures that the right processes and controls, as well as communication and guidance are management in an emergency situation," Neil said.

● Neil Cheney Neil said that he feels proud to have of simply doing the right thing and received the award, and humbled by treating individuals and families fairly are key to his role. the experience.

"I think my work also very closely "I'm very honoured that someone aligns with the principle of extending took the time and effort to nominate relief to those in dire need. The prinme. ciple tenets are brotherly love, truth During winter (the off-season) Neil and relief, and my work as an emerspends his time travelling across the gency management co-ordinator cerstate, training police officers in emer- tainly fits in with this". gency management processes. This "Preparedness, leadership and colincludes conducting drills and testing laboration are also major components systems. of the role - the more you're able to When asked about the parallels be- deal well with the community during tween Freemasonry and his career, these situations, the more support you Neil said that the values and principles get in return", he said.

To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, or attend upcoming public events, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au Or ‘like’ our FaceBook page www.facebook.com/freemasonsvic for the most up to date information.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 19

West Hollywood

Always safe in West Hollywood ■ From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.

Lester Holt at the desk

Best in Los Angeles ■ Crime has dropped 5 per cent across the county of Los Angeles. In West Hollywood there is very little crime and that is an ongoing determination from the City of West Hollywood.

The Sheriff's Department and the Beverly Hills LAPD are visual on the streets and maintain a friendly and safe destination for all residents and visitors.

Working closely with law enforcement is the local business leaders and traders that make up the magic of West Hollywood.

Alan Johnson, Managing Director of Ramada Hotel and Suites, caught with two motorcycle policemen connecting with the public on Santa Monica Boulevard.

Smiles all round for this is a happy place to visit.

● Alan Johnson with Beverly Hills’ finest.

Rupert stands aside ■ The 21st Century Fox shakeup has officially been slated for today (July 1), when James Murdoch will take over for father Rupert Murdoch as CEO. Chase Carey will stay aboard as executive vice-chairman through to June 30, 2016.

James 's brother, Lachlan Murdoch, will join Rupert as executive co-chairmen.

Meanwhile, long term Chief Operating Officer Chase Carey will take on the Executive Vice-President title, which he will serve out through to June 30, 2016.

As a result of the shakeup, the company's corporate functions and its global television and film operations will now jointly report to Lachlan and James.

"It has always been our priority to ensure stable, long term leadership for the company, and these appointments achieve that goal," Rupert Murdoch stated.

"Lachlan and James are each talented and accomplished executives and together, we, as shareholders and partners, will strive to take our company to new levels of growth and opportunity at a time of dynamic change in our industry.

"I can't thank Chase Carey enough for his friendship, counsel and leadership over the past decades," he added.

"He will be actively engaged in supporting Lachlan and James as they step in to their new roles."

"I am grateful to Rupert for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime and truly believe there isn't a company out there that's more exciting, with more growth potential, than 21st Century Fox," Carey said.

"I look forward to continuing to work with Rupert to support Lachlan and James in their new positions."

In a joint statement, Lachlan and James said: "We are both humbled by the opportunity to lead, with our father and the talented team of executives at 21st Century Fox, this extraordinary company.

"We are grateful to Chase for being the leader and partner that he has been, and we are both delighted that his wisdom and sure handedness will continue to serve 21st Century Fox," they continued.

"We are also grateful to the Board for providing us the opportunity to lead this great company."

The brothers concluded: "Most importantly, we each look forward to working with the entire team of creators, executives, artists and all of our colleagues that make up our global businesses, to steer the company into the future, and to drive continued value for our shareholders."

● Rupert Murdoch

■ Brian Williams has reached an agreement with NBC that will keep him at the network, but not in the anchor chair at NBC Nightly News.

CNN's Brian Stelter reports the tentative agreement will keep Williams at NBC after his six-month suspension is lifted in August, but he will not return to the anchor chair, which is now occupied by Lester Holt.

Wall Street Journal reports Holt will be announced as the new permanent anchor of NBC Nightly News.

Williams's new role is unknown, even for most executives inside NBC, according to the new CNN report, though the company is expected to make a formal announcement soon.

Reports broke in late May that NBC and Williams were in talks for the anchor to leave Nightly News but remain with the network.

The May report also said that NBC News chairman Andy Lack backed the idea of keeping Williams, and asked employees to "think creatively" in terms of a place for the former Nightly News anchor.

Williams is currently in the fifth month of a six-month suspension for exaggerating about his Iraq War experience, erroneously saying that he was on a helicopter that was shot down by RPG fire.

New job for Melissa

GavinWood

From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd

Jurassic World records ■ The year is again pacing to be biggest in history after the record-breaking rampage by a dino sequel halts a three-week skid.

The spectacular debut of Jurassic World has the domestic box office back on a record-breaking pace, after three sluggish weeks that didn't measure up to last year's.

Going into last weekend, the box office was flat compared to 2014 and amid a skid that began with a slow Memorial Day weekend.

But thanks to the stunning $208 million debut of Universal's sequel to Steven Spielberg's1993 sci-fi classic - and another $25 million on Monday - 2015 is now roughly 4 percent ahead of last year, according to Rentrak.

It's also 7 per cent ahead of 2013, which was the biggest year ever with $10.9 billion in grosses. Analysts have projected that this year will be the highest grossing in history, topping $11 billion with a profusion of super sequels and potential blockbusters.

Avengers: Age of Ultron, Furious 7 and the 3D dinosaur spectacular have already made their marks, and coming up are James Bond thriller Spectre, the finale to the Hunger Games franchise and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, as well as animated films like Inside Out, the Good Dinosaur and Minions.

The summer is also expected to be a record-breaker, and it got a major boost from Jurassic World, too. The season is up 7.6 percent over last year and is running more than 10 percent ahead of 2013, which was the highest grossing ever at $4.7 billion.

The lift from Universal's Jurassic World goes beyond the numbers, and should silence the skeptics who've cropped up recently, according to Paul Dergarabedian, media analyst at Rentrak.

"The strength of last weekend was vitally important to the perception of the health of the summer season," he said. "The massive over-performance by Jurassic World shows once again how profoundly cyclical this crazy movie business is, and that all it takes is one movie to turn things around."

June looked strong going in and hasn't disappointed. It's up seven percent from last year and nearly 10 percent over 2004, the all-time leader with $485 million.

With the family film Inside Out expected to knock it out of the park, Ted 2 coming and Jurassic World likely to hold well, a June record looks probable, according to Dergarabedian.

"That's the kind of optimism a $208 million opening brings," he said.

www.gavinwood.us

● Melissa Rivers ■ Melissa Rivers has been set as the new co-host of E Network's Fashion Police when it returns to air on August 31 for the MTV Video Music Awards, the network announced Wednesday.

Rivers will appear alongside current panelists Giuliana Rancic and Brad Goreski, and will continue to serve as executive producer on the series.

"As an executive producer since the beginning, Melissa helped shape Fashion Police into an iconic TV series that couples fashion with comedy," said Jeff Olde, Executive Vice President, Programming and Development for E. "I'm very excited to be given the opportunity to continue to work with my E! and Fashion Police family," added Rivers.

In each episode, two additional rotating celebrity guests, including comedians, stylists and actors, will join the three hosts.

E's fashion commentary show had been plagued by controversy and a revolving door of hosts since Joan Rivers unexpectedly died in 2014.

Kathy Griffin was selected to replace Rivers, but was quickly out, followed by Kelly Osborne after a racially insensitive joke from Rancic went viral.

Fashion Police returns for six episodes in 2015 surrounding big fashion and pop culture events.

Mention the ‘Observer’

■ If you are considering a move to Los Angeles or just coming over for a holiday then I have got a special deal for you.

I would love to see you at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood.

I have secured a terrific holiday deal for readers of the Melbourne Observer.

Please mention 'Melbourne Observer' when you book and you will receive the 'Special Rate of the Day'.

Please contact: Joanna at info@ramadaweho.com Happy Holidays Gavin Wood

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Page 20 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

■ High on my list of favourite television shows is Doc Martin starring Martin Clunes.

I spent a week in Port Issac in Cornwall during a holiday with my wife and youngest daughter and that is where the show is filmed.

Unfortunately they were not in production at the time but I was fascinated with this wonderful little fishing village and every time I watch Doc Martin I can recognise the location spots.

The character of Doc Martin is just wonderful - a rude, gruff and cantankerous GP who gets very ill at the sight of blood.

Over the years Doc Martin has fallen in love with the local school teacher, married and had a baby son. But all was not going well at the end of series six.

Series seven will be shown on the ABC but sadly it may be the last. The new series goes to air in the UK in September.

Apparently more than 800 local people turned up for auditions in Port Isaac for extras roles in the new series.

As the doors of the church hall opened for the auditions there was a queue of 150 babies in prams and pushchairs hoping to be selected for the role of 11-month-old James Henry, the son of Doc Martin and Louisa.

The show has found a huge audience in the US and many countries throughout the world.

Alexander Martin Clunes was born in Wimbeldon, South London, England in 1961.

Whatever Happened To ...

Martin Clunes

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

His parents were music hall entertainers and were both in show business.

His father Eric Clunes became a Shakespearian actor and his mother worked for as secretary to Orson Welles.

Martin has an older sister Amanda. Their cousin Jeremy Brett played Freddie EynsfordHill in My Fair Lady with Audrey Hepburn in 1964 film and then starred as Sherlock Holmes in the popular television series.

Sadly Eric Clunes died of lung cancer when Martin was only eight, and Martin was sent to boarding school where he became interested in school plays and acting.

He developed a love of animals when he was put in charge of school menagerie with the

● Martin Clunes responsibility of caring for the animals. His first stage role in repertory led to a guest role in the television series Dr Who in 1983 where he played an alien prince opposite Peter Davidson.

Later that year he was cast as Nigel Crabtree in No Place Like Home.

Martin won a BAFTA award in 1996 for the role of Gary in the comedy television series Men

Behaving Badly. His films have included Shakespeare In Love, Staggered, Amazing Grace and The Russia House.

Over the years Martin has hosted many television documentaries which have rated highly.

His latest documentary Man And Beast with Martin Clunes was recently seen in Australia.

The new dramatic series Arthur And George, in which he plays Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, will begin at 8.30pm this Friday on ABC1.

Martin married Lucy Aston in 1990 and following his divorce he married Philippa Braithwaite, who is the producer of Doc Martin and they have a daughter.

Martin Clunes was awarded the OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2015 Queen's Birthday Honours List for his services to drama, charity and the community in Dorset.

I must point out that Matin Clunes is nothing like the character of Doc Martin in real life.

Miriam Margolyes was a guest star in Doc Martin, and Miriam recently told me that Martin Clunes was an absolute joy to work with.

Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce and PhilSundays at 9.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12Noon 96.5FM is streaming on the internet.

To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and follow the prompts.

Planned for a million quid, but no such luck

■ About 50 years ago I dug my first opal mine.

Me and my mates Mike Headberry and Peter McIntyre left Spencer St. at 8 one evening, sat up all night to Adelaide, then caught a train to Port Augusta the next morning.

Then the Trans-Nullabor, finally disembarking at Pimba, just near

Woomera. Unfortunately an eightyear drought had just broken, and every road was impassable, so we weren't going anywhere, and just cooled our heels in the mud, rolling out our sleeping bags in an old shed.

On the ninth day we hopped on the back of the mail truck and headed out to Andamooka - 14 hours to go 90 miles, most of the time pushing the

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truck out of bogs. After pitching our tent, we set about learning how this opal mining caper worked.

We ended up at a field called German Gully, where we only needed to dig down three feet to reach the opal ‘level’, the layer of clay, an old sea bed, which contained any opal which had formed.

And so we dug, largely unsuccessfully, for the next three weeks. We'd planned a million quid by then - no such luck.

■ And now, about 50 years later, I've just started over again.

I have just returned from Coober Pedy, and am now the proud owner of an opal claim at the company field, about five kilometres out of town.

I have often scratched around on this particular section - in fact when Keith and Angie McGowan would often visit me, I'd take them out there, and Angie would scratch about with her pick, locating some chips of opal here and there.

So that last week I met up with Leila, who worked for us in Flinders Lane, and her mate Eric, and armed with a prismatic compass, we stepped out our 50 by 100 metre plot and took the appropriate bearings, and rushed them down to the Mines Department and voila, our claim was official.

The section of land was actually already investigated by my friend Ken with his bulldozer so he conveniently left a wall of opal clay which we can just tunnel into.

Ken's removed all the overburden with his machine, now making it much easier for us.

So now I'm in eagerly awaiting Leila's urgent call: "We've struck it rich."

■ I've got a mate, Mark, who runs the roadside stop at Cadney Park, 150 kms north of Coober Pedy.

I visited him, and was chatting to his mate Tony, who spent about five years at a similar roadside stop in the NT, Dunmara, through which I have often travelled.

Another stop, Elliott, is south of Dunmara. Its main claim to fame is the fact that it's exactly halfway between Alice Springs and Darwin.

Tony told me of one particular incident whereby a traveller had pulled in, requiring some accommodation.

He had just come from Elliot, and had in fact booked his accommodation

The Outback Legend

trailers loaded up with motor bikes and buggies joining the fray.

But the next morning was the eyeopener. This time I joined with the northbound flow - van after van after van.

And it didn't stop till I arrived in Coober Pedy.

Whilst most of these drivers courteously travel at 110kmh or so, there is the odd one who settles for 80.

This doesn't bother me so much as I just pull out and zip around.

However, the poor old road train drivers can't do this, and get stuck behind these dodderers.

■ I've got a mate, Paul, who was my ex business partner in Alice Springs.

He stayed on after I left, but has now returned home to Hahndorf, a pretty hamlet in the Adelaide Hills.

I have mentioned him before - he loves maps, and he often organised with Nick Le Souef "map nights" in Alice Springs, whereby a few of us would wander Lightning Ridge Opals along to someone's abode, sometimes 175 Flinders Lane, my shed, and bring some maps and Melbourne bottles of wine.

Phone 9654 4444 We'd then sit around discussing our www.opals.net.au maps - where we'd been, and where we planned to go in the future.

Of course this held no interest whatthere. So off he went to find his room.

Upon opening the door, he was con- soever for any wives.

When my mate Ozzie had packed fronted not only by his bed, but, large as life, a proud peacock happily nest- up his Toyota Troupie and headed out, ing itself on the bed. just living out of his vehicle, of course This changed his plans a little, so he got rid of everything in his home. he promptly went back to cancel his I took his books and his records, reservation. and Paul his maps.

"I don't need a refund - you obviOzzie is an expert on early Austraously need the money more than me lian explorers such as Burke and Wills to upgrade your facilities!" and Leichardt, and so had maps and information on all of them.

■ I've traversed the Stuart Highway I've never seen this before, so when many times, but I have never seen it I arrived on Paul's doorstep last week, like Bourke St before. out they came.

I left Adelaide at about 5pm, and Paul had just arranged himself a decided to drive through until I tired a ‘man cave’, so this was the perfect little. This was at about nine, when I spot to inspect all this information. arrived at my old stamping ground of My intention had initially been a Pimba, and I hopped into a motel quick cuppa, then on my way. No just a few demountables.

But the oncoming southbound traf- such luck.

A couple of hours later I'm still fic was amazing. Some of it was the grey nomad brigade towing their cara- there, checking Burke and Wills' vans. They had obviously been north, campsites, where they shot a camel and were heading home early, or for food, and where they ran out of maybe planning a right-hand turn water.

Fascinating stuff. across the Nullabor.

- Nick Le Souef But the Finke Desert race had just ‘The Outback Legend’ finished in Alice Springs, so there were

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 21

Victoria Pictorial

Melbourne Zoo Nostalgic Photo Collection

● Primates in cages in the early days of the Melbourne Zoo

● Feeding time

● The zebra (c. 1897-1901)

● Donkey carriage, 1897.

● Betty and Peggy. 1939.

● Emu paddock. 1907.

● Kangaroo paddock. 1904.

● The snake house. 1906.

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Page 22 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Melbourne

Observer

Travellers’Good Buys

with David Ellis

Travis, publican with true spirit ■ Although he’s only got seven guest rooms in his little Hurunui Hotel 45 minutes north of New Zealand’s Christchurch, publican Travis Cooper says that with a half-dozen permanent guests, even on quiet days he’s never short of company – although as he likes to put it, “they’re all on another planet.”

For instance, to the staff’s annoyance Mary’s never happier than when down in the kitchen rearranging things, Mr and Mrs Hastie just like wandering around downstairs, Murray the shearer constantly smells of lanolin from sheep’s wool, there’s the alcoholic Mr Wilson, and the strange lady who Travis simply calls “that woman in the long black dress….”

And while they may sound prettymuch regular enough, Travis is quick to point out one thing: they are in fact, all ghosts.

He kids us not, and to back him up, just a couple of years ago a clairvoyant who’d dropped into the hotel for lunch while on a road trip, told him she “sensed there were spirits” in the place as soon as she arrived, and asked if she could see the upstairs living areas.

After an hour and a half and never having been in the hotel before, she rattled off precise details of all six of those “permanent guests” after saying one had actually contacted her – Mary, the one-time kitchen-hand who

● Publican Travis Cooper is not surprised by anything guests tell him they’ve seen or felt.

Melbourne

Observer Wines & Liqueurs

with David Ellis

Special wines, special times ■ Schild Estate must rate amongst the Barossa Valley’s more amazing family success stories, a young Edgar Schild taking the reins at just 16 years of age when his father passed away in 1956, and going on to replace his dad’s small mixed farm with a-now 182ha (450 acres) at Lyndoch on which three generations of the family live today - and producing from it some of the Southern Barossa’s finest wines.

Leading those wines is their flagship Pramie, in German meaning bonus or premium, and which could not be more appropriate – the just-released 2013 Pramie Shiraz an exceptional limited-release for giving serious thought to for that next specialoccasion dinner or celebration.

Judy Watson, one of today’s Schild Estate family owners, says 2013 was an “incredible” year for Shiraz in their part of the Barossa, enabling the family to achieve their constant aim of creating wines reflecting both the best of the vintage, as well as the best of the land from which the wines come.

With intense upfront plum fruit flavours and obvious but fine tannin, this is a Shiraz well worth the $70 asking price, and ideal with flame-grilled fillet of beef. Available from select retail outlets and restaurants for that special occasion; if you’ve trouble finding it, go onto schildestate.com.au

One to note ■ For those doing the Christmas in July thing this month, a rewarding drop to enjoy with the Christmas pudd is Rymill’s 2013 June Traminer – a luscious, botrytis-affected “sticky” whose full-on flavours will go just so well with the pudding and a goodly dollop of custard or ice-cream.

And while most consider Traminer a dessert wine to enjoy with puddings and sweet delights like lemon curd tarts and passionfruit panacotta, you’ll find it a good drop too with such Thai cuisine main courses as beef satay with peanut sauce, with Indian chicken and coconut curry, or if you are not into the hot and spicy, with pork chops heartily peach glazed.

Well worth it at $21for a 375ml bottle.

Pictured ■ Result of three generations of family togetherness, a special wine for special occasions.

■ Put this on the table with the pudding if you’re doing Christmas in July this month

to this day loves rearranging and hiding things that staff are sure they’ve placed in a particular spot.

And to surprising staff and guests with friendly touches from unseen hands…

Travis Cooper says the wandering Mr and Mrs Hastie on the other hand are far less troublesome, possibly because they built the hotel themselves back in 1860, a fact that also makes it today New Zealand’s oldest continuous-licenced pub.

And licensing rules in their day were interesting: Mr Hastie had to have at least eight guest beds in four separate rooms, a bar, dining and sitting rooms, and a waterproof shed with water, oats and hay for guest’s horses.

He also had to have yards to corral passing stock, dips to prevent disease spreading into the Canterbury Plains, a horse for travellers to cross the Hurunui River between sunrise and sunset, prevent drunkenness or disorder at his bar, and to become a Special Law Officer “to assist police and magistrates as required.”

More macabrely he had to have a morgue in case of a guest’s death… while as a good citizen, he also volunteered as something of a postmaster, holding mail and newspapers for travellers and locals, and posting their mail for them when he regularly went into Christchurch on business.

Murray the shearer lived full-time in Room 1 a-near century ago, and although constantly smelling of lanolin from sheep’s wool, was “a bit naughty with the ladies” – with his ghost today still reputedly of the same leaning and aroma…

The alcoholic Mr Arnold Wilson actually owned the hotel in the early 1940s … until a fatal fall down the stairs drunk. His widow later married the bar manager.

But Travis Cooper says neither he nor the clairvoyant have been able to identify just who was “that lady in the long black dress,” and who’s occasionally been seen in rooms and corridors.

As well as strange sightings, guests have also sworn to the sensation of having been touched by invisible hands, of sudden cold draughts in rooms in which all doors and windows are closed, the feeling of air wafting around them as if someone has just walked past… and of such bizarre things as hearing a piano playing while no-one is in the room, electrical appliances being turned off when there’s been no-one near the power point, guests having the feeling of someone tucking-in the sheets around them as they’ve lain in bed, and even of a jukebox suddenly changing records while no-one was near it.

The Hurunui Hotel makes for a rewarding and somewhat spirited visit (NZ$55 per night Single with cooked breakfast, $90 Double – communal shared facilities,) and the more-so with welcoming hosts in Travis and his team.

And they’ve hearty all-day country-fare including burgers, steak and chicken sandwiches, fish and chips, nachos, pies and fries, roast of the day and children’s meals.

If you’re intrigued and would like to get into the spirit, hop onto www.hurunuihotel.co.nz

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 23

Observer Classic Books

‘Such Is Life’ by Joseph Furphy

Chapter V - continues No mistake, Moore looked a bit gallied on it; an’ he hum’d an’ ha’d, an’ threatened to brain Tregarvis if he laid a hand on the hide. Anyhow, the trooper took charge o’ the hide; an’ both the Tregarvises struck matches an’ examined the head in the pig-sty. Next mornin’, a warrant was served on Moore; but, of course, he was bailed.

Then the Court-day come on; an’ Tregarvis swore to a knowledge that a white bullock of his was among the Wo–Winya cattle; an’ he give evidence about the findin’ o’ the skin, an’ swore to the head he seen in the pig-sty. An’ young Tregarvis, he swore he was watchin’ with a telescope, an’ seen a white bullock o’ theirs yarded with some more, an’ all the rest turnedout; an’ he kep’ his eye on that white bullock all the afternoon; an’ he heard the shot, an’ went up with his ole man an’ the trooper; an’ he seen the raw hide hangin’ on the fence, an’ the head in the pig-sty, an’a couple o’ fellers hoistin’the carkidge on the gallus. When the magistrate asked Moore if he wanted to make a statement, he said he was quite bewildered about it. He allowed he had picked the white bullock for killin’, an’ he had give the order; but he’d swear the beast belonged to the station. So the hide was spread out on a bit o’ tarpolin in the floor o’ the Court; an’ there was on’y one brand on it, an’ that brand was M’Gregor’s — DMG off-rump. Mind you, this is on’y what I was told. My orders was to keep clear till the case was over; an’ it was on’y a day or two follerin’ that me an’ pore Bat got our orders for the Diamantinar. Anyhow, Moore whanged it on to Tregarvis for malicious prosecution; an’ it cost the Cousin Jack a good many hundred before he was done with it. As for young Dick Tregarvis, he got four years for perjury; so they’ll be jist about lettin’ him out now, if he’s got the good-conduct remission.

“Beast changed?” suggested Thompson.

“Yes. That was the idear. Some different dodge next time. Changed jist at dusk, an’ shot the minit after. I had the station bullock all ready, before ever Tregarvis’s one was yarded. Dead spit o’ one another, down to the shape o’ their horns — bar the brands, of course; Treganis’s beast havin’ NT near-shoulder, an’ JH conjoined under halfcircle off-ribs. I had him half-ways back to the paddick agen when Tregarvis thought he was identifyin’ him in the killin’-yard. So he fellin, simple enough. An’ between one thing an’ another, an’ bein’ follered-up like the last dingo on a sheep station, ole Tregarvis was glad to sell-out to M’Gregor, before all was over. Yes, Stevenson; Lord ‘a’ mercy on M’Gregor if you got a holt of him! My word! ” “Where the (adj. sheol) do you reckon on bein’ shoved into when you croak, Bob?” asked Donovan, with a touch of human solicitude.

“Well,” replied Bob pointedly, as he unfolded his long angles to a perpendicular right line —“I got good hopes o’ goin’ to a place where there’s no admittance for swearers. Ain’t ashamed to say I repented eight or ten months ago. Guarantee you fellers ain’t heard no language out o’ my mouth since I set down here. Nor ‘on’t — never again. Well, take care o’ yourselves, chaps.”

And, without further farewell, Bob removed his lonely individuality from our convention.

“Anointed (adj.) savage,” remarked Donovan, as the subject of his comment receded into the hazy half-light of the plain, where his horse was feeding.

“Uncivilised (person),” added Baxter.

“Well — yes,” conceded Thompson. “Same time, he’s got the profit of his unprofitableness, so to speak. Hard to beat him in the back country. You’d have to be more uncivilised than he is. And I saw that very thing happen to him, four or five weeks ago, out on Goolumbulla.” Thompson paused experimentally, then continued, “Yes, I saw him put-through, till he must have felt a lot too tall in proportion to his cleverness.”

Another tentative pause. “But it took the very pick of uncivilisation to do it.” Aprolonged pause, while Thompson languidly filled and lit his pipe.

Still the dignified indifference of the camp remained unruffled. Thompson might tell his yarn, or keep it to himself. Once already during the evening his tongue had run too freely. “What I’m thinking about,” he continued, in a tone of audible musing, “is that I forgot to tell Bob, when

Joseph Furphy (Tom Collins) he was here, that I had a long pitch with Dan O’Connell, three or four nights ago.”

“Boundary man on Goolumbulla,” I suggested apathetically. “Got acquainted with Bob years ago, when he was making himself useful on Moogoojinna, and Bob was making himself obnoxious on Wo–Winya, or Boolka.”

“No; they never met till four or five weeks ago,” replied Thompson, with inimitable indifference, though now licensed to proceed without damage to his own dignity. “Dan’s an old acquaintance of yours — is n’t he? I heard your name mentioned over the finding of a dead man — George something — had been fencing on Mooltunya — George Murdock. Yes.” Thompson told a story well. I verily believe he used to practise the accomplishment mentally, as he sauntered along beside his team. He knew his own superiority here; his acquaintances knew it too, and they also knew that he knew it.

Hence they were reluctant to minister occasion to his egotism.

“Speaking of Bob,” he continued listlessly; “I met him in the hut, at Kulkaroo, on the evening I got there with the load. He was on his way down from that new place of M’Gregor’s, where he’s been; and he had come round by Kulkaroo to see one of the very few friends he has in the world; but he lost his labour, for this cove had left the station more than a year before.

“However, we had been yarning for hours, and the station chaps were about turning-in, when we heard someone coming in a hurry. No less than Webster himself — first time he had been in the hut since it was built, the chaps told me afterward. He had a leaf of a memorandumbook in his hand; and says he: “‘Child lost in the scrub on Goolumbulla. Dan

O’Connell’s little girl — five or six years old.

Anybody know where there’s any blackfellows?’

“Nobody knew. “‘Well, raise horses wherever you can, and clear at once,’ says he. ‘One man, for the next couple of days, will be worth a regiment very shortly.

As for you, Thompson,’ says he; ‘you’re your own master.’

“Of course, I was only too glad of any chance to help in such a case, so I went for my horse at once. Bob had duffed his two horses into the ration paddock, on his way to the hut, and had put them along with my mare, so that he could find them at daylight by the sound of her bell.

This started me and him together. He lent his second horse to one of the station chaps; and the three of us got to Goolumbulla just after sunrise — first of the crowd. Twenty-five mile. There was tucker on the table, and chaff for our horses; and, during the twenty minutes or so that we stayed, they gave us the outline of the mishap.

“Seems that, for some reason or other — valuation for mortgage, I’m thinking — the classer had come round a few days before; and Spanker had called in every man on the station, to muster the ewes. You know how thick the scrub is on Goolumbulla? Dan came in along with the rest, leaving his own place before daylight on the first morning. They swept the paddock the first day for about three parts of the ewes; the second day they got most of what was left; but Spanker wanted every hoof, if possible, and he kept all hands on for the third day.

“Seems, the little girl did n’t trouble herself the first day, though she had n’t seen Dan in the morning; but the second day there was something peculiar about her — not fretful, but dreaming, and asking her mother strange questions. It

r

e rv se US N Ob N IO BO CT SE

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appears that, up to this time, she had never said a word about the man that was found dead near their place, a couple of months before. She saw that her parents did n’t want to tell her anything about it, so she had never showed any curiosity; but now her mother was startled to find that she knew all the particulars.

“It appears that she was very fond of her father; and this affair of the man perishing in the scrub was working on her mind. All the second day she did nothing but watch; and during the night she got up several times to ask her mother questions that frightened the woman. The child did n’t understand her father going away before she was awake, and not coming back. Still, the curious thing was that she never took her mother into her confidence, and never seemed to fret.

“Anyway, on the third morning, after breakfast, her mother went out to milk the goats, leaving her in the house. When the woman came back, she found the child gone. She looked round the place, and called, and listened, and prospected everywhere, for an hour; then she went into the house, and examined. She found that the little girl had taken about a pint of milk, in a small billy with a lid, and half a loaf of bread. Then, putting everything together, the mother decided that she had gone into the scrub to look for her father. There was no help to be had nearer than the home-station, for the only other boundary man on that part of the run was away at the muster. So she cleared for the station — twelve mile — and got there about three in the afternoon, not able to stand. There was nobody about the station but Mrs. Spanker, and the servantgirl, and the cook, and the Chow slushy; and Mrs. Spanker was the only one that knew the track to the ewe-paddock. However, they got a horse in, and off went Mrs. Spanker to give the alarm. Fine woman. Daughter of old Walsh, storekeeper at Moogoojinna, on the Deniliquin side.

“It would be about five when Mrs. Spanker struck the ewe-paddock, and met Broome and another fellow. Then the three split out to catch whoever they could, and pass the word round.

Dan got the news just before sundown. He only remarked that she might have found her own way back; then he went for home as hard as his horse could lick.

“As the fellows turned-up, one after another, Spanker sent the smartest of them — one to Kulkaroo, and one to Mulppa, and two or three others to different fencers’ and tank-sinkers’ camps. But the main thing was blackfellows.

Did anybody know where to find a blackfellow, now that he was wanted?

“Seems, there had been about a dozen of them camped near the tank in the cattle-paddock for a month past, but they were just gone, nobody knew where. And there had been an old lubra and a young one camped within a mile of the station, and an old fellow and his lubra near one of the boundary men’s places; but they all happened to have shifted; and no one had the slightest idea where they could be found. However, in a sense, everyone was after them.

“But, as I was telling you, we had some breakfast at the station, and, then started for Dan’s place. Seven of us by this time, for another of the Kulkaroo men had come up, and there were three well-sinkers in a buggy. This was on a Thursday morning; and the little girl had been out twenty-four hours.

“Well, we had gone about seven mile, with crowds of fresh horsetracks to guide us; and we happened to be going at a fast shog, and Bob riding a couple or three yards to the right, when he suddenly wheeled his horse round, and jumped off. “‘How far is it yet to Dan’s place?’ says he. “‘Five mile,’ says one of the well-sinkers.

‘We’re just on the corner of his paddock. Got tracks?’ “‘Yes,’ says Bob. ‘I’ll run them up, while you fetch the other fellows. Somebody look after my horse.’ And by the time the last word was out of his mouth, he was twenty yards away along the little track. No trouble in following it, for she was running the track of somebody that had rode out that way a few days before — thinking it was her father’s horse, poor little thing!

Continued on Page 24

Page 24 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

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Observer Classic Books From Page 23 “Apparently she had kept along the inside of Dan’s fence — the way she had generally seen him going out — till she came to the corner, where there was a gate. Then she had noticed this solitary horse’s track striking away from the gate, out to the left; and she had followed it.

However, half-a-mile brought us to a patch of hardish ground, where she had lost the horse’s track; and there Bob lost hers. Presently he picked it up again; but now there was only her little bootmarks to follow.”

“A goot dog would be wort vivty men dere, I tink,” suggested Helsmok.

“Same thought struck several of us, but it did n’t strike Bob,” replied Thompson. “Fact, the wellsinkers had brought a retriever with them in the buggy; a dog that would follow the scent of any game you could lay him on; but they could n’t get him to take any notice of the little girl’s track.

Never been trained to track children — and how were they going to make him understand that a child was lost? However, while two of the wellsinkers were persevering with their retriever, the other fellow drove off like fury to fetch Dan’s sheep-dog; making sure that we would only have to follow him along the scent. In the meantime, I walked behind Bob, leading both our horses.

"Give him his due, he’s a great tracker. I compare tracking to reading a letter written in a good business hand. You must’nt look at what’s under your eye; you must see a lot at once, and keep a general grasp of what’s on ahead, besides spotting each track you pass. Otherwise, you’ll be always turning back for a fresh race at it. And you must no more confine yourself to actual tracks than you would expect to find each letter correctly formed. You must just lift the general meaning as you go. Of course, our everyday tracking is not tracking at all.

“However, Bob run this little track full walk, mile after mile, in places where I would ‘n’t see a mark for fifty yards at a stretch, on account of rough grass, and dead leaves, and so forth. One thing in favour of Bob was that she kept a fairly straight course, except when she was blocked by porcupine or supple-jack; then she would swerve off, and keep another middling straight line. At last Bob stopped. “‘Here’s where she slept last night,’ says he; and we could trace the marks right enough. We even found some crumbs of bread on the ground, and others that the ants were carrying away.

She had made twelve or fourteen mile in the day’s walk.

“By this time, several chaps had come from about Dan’s place; and they were still joining us in twos and threes. As fast as they came, they scattered out in front, right and left, and one cove walked a bit behind Bob, with a frog-bell, shaking it now and then, to give the fellows their latitude. This would be about two in the afternoon, or half-past; and we pushed along the tracks she had made only a few hours before, with good hopes of overtaking her before dark.

The thing that made us most uneasy was the weather. It was threatening for a thunderstorm.

At this time we were in that unstocked country south-east of the station. Suddenly Bob rose up from his stoop, and looked round at me with a face on him like a ghost. “‘God help us now, if we don’t get a blackfellow quick!’ says he, pointing at the ground before him. And, sure enough, there lay the child’s little coppertoed boots, where she had taken them off when her feet got sore, and walked on in her socks. It was just then that a tank-sinker drove up, with Dan and his dog in the buggy.”

“Poor old Rory!” I interposed. “Much excited?”

“Well — no. But there was a look of suspense in his face that was worse. And his dog — a dog that had run the scent of his horse for hundreds of miles, all put together — that dog would smell any plain track of the little stocking-foot, only a few hours old, and would wag his tail, and bark, to show that he knew whose track it was; and all the time showing the greatest distress to see Dan in trouble; but it was no use trying to start him on the scent. They tried three or four other dogs. with just the same success. But Bob never lost half-a-second over these attempts. He knew.

“Anyway, it was fearful work after that; with the thunderstorm hanging over us. Bob was continually losing the track; and us circling round and round in front, sometimes picking it up a little further ahead. But we only made another half-mile or three-quarters, at the outside — before night was on. I daresay there might be about twenty-five of us by this time, and eighteen or twenty horses, and two or three buggies

and wagonettes. Some of the chaps took all the horses to a tank six or eight mile away, and some cleared-off in desperation to hunt for blackfellows, and the rest of us scattered out a mile or two ahead of the last track, to listen.

“They had been sending lots of tucker from the station; and before the morning was grey everyone had breakfast, and was out again. But, do what we would, it was slow, slow work; and Bob was the only one that could make any show at all in running the track. Friday morning, of course; and by this time the little girl had been out for forty-eight hours.

“At nine or ten in the forenoon, when Bob had made about half-amile, one of the Kulkaroo men came galloping through the scrub from the right, making for the sound of the bell. “‘Here, Bob!’ says he. ‘We’ve found the little girl’s billy at the fence of Peter’s paddock, where she crossed. Take this horse. About two mile — straight out there.’

“I had my horse with me at the time, and I tailedup Bob to the fence. He went full tilt, keeping the track that the horse had come, and this fetched us to where a couple of chaps were standing over a little billy, with a lump of bread beside it. She had laid them down to get through the fence, and then went on without them. The lid was still on the billy, and there was a drop of milk left. The ants had eaten the bread out of all shape.

“But Bob was through the fence, and bowling down a dusty sheeptrack, where a couple of fellows had gone before him, and where we could all see the marks of the little bare feet — for the stockings were off by this time. But in sixty or eighty yards this pad run into another, covered with fresh sheep-tracks since the little girl had passed. Nothing for it but to spread out, and examine the network of pads scattered over the country. All this time, the weather was holding-up, but there was a grumble of thunder now and then, and the air was fearfully close.

“At last there was a coo-ee out to the left. Young Broome had found three plain tracks, about halfa-mile away. We took these for a base, but we didn’t get beyond them. We were circling round for miles, without making any headway; and so the time passed till about three in the afternoon.

Then up comes Spanker, with his hat lost, and his face cut and bleeding from the scrub, and his horses in a white lather, and a black lubra sitting in the back of the buggy, and the Mulppa stock-keeper tearing along in front, giving him our tracks.

“She was an old, grey-haired lubra, blind of one eye; but she knew her business, and she was on the job for life or death. She picked-up the track at a glance, and run it like a bloodhound. We found that the little girl had n’t kept the sheeppads as we expected. Generally she went straight till something blocked her; then she’d go straight again, at another angle. Very rarely — hardly ever — we could see what signs the lubra was following; but she was all right. Uncivilised, even for an old lubra. Nobody could yabber with her but Bob; and he kept close to her all the time.

She began to get uneasy as night came on, but there was no help for it. She went slower and slower, and at last she sat down where she was.

We judged that the little girl had made about seventeen mile to the place where the lubra got on her track, and we had added something like four to that. Though, mind you, at this time we were only about twelve or fourteen mile from Dan’s place, and eight or ten mile from the home-station.

“Longest night I ever passed, though it was one of the shortest in the year. Eyes burning for want of sleep, and could n’t bear to lie down for a minute. Wandering about for miles; listening; hearing something in the scrub; and finding it was only one of the other chaps, or some sheep.

Thunder and lightning, on and off, all night; even two or three drops of rain, toward morning. Once I heard the howl of a dingo, and I thought of the little girl, lying worn-out, half-asleep and halffainting — far more helpless than a sheep — and I made up my mind that if she came out safe I would lead a better life for the future.

“However, between daylight and sunrise — being then about a mile, or a mile and a half, from the bell — I was riding at a slow walk, listening and dozing in the saddle, when I heard a far-away call that sounded like ‘Dad-dee!’. It seemed to be straight in front of me; and I went for it like mad. Had n’t gone far when Williamson, the narangy, was alongside me. “‘Hear anything?’ says I. “‘Yes,’ says he. ‘Sounded like ‘Daddy!’ I think

it was out here.’ “‘I think it was more this way,’ says I; and each of us went his own way.

“When I got to where I thought was about the place, I listened again, and searched round everywhere. The bell was coming that way, and presently I went to meet it, leading my horse, and still listening. Then another call came through the stillness of the scrub, faint, but beyond mistake, ‘Dad-de-e-e!’. There was n’t a trace of terror in the tone; it was just the voice of a worn-out child, deliberately calling with all her might. Seemed to be something less than half-a-mile away, but I could n’t fix on the direction; and the scrub was very thick.

“I hurried down to the bell. Everyone there had heard the call, or fancied they had; but it was out to their right — not in front. Of course, the lubra would n’t leave the track, nor Bob, nor the chap with the bell; but everyone else was gone — Dan among the rest. The lubra said something to Bob. “‘Picaninny tumble down here again,’ says Bob. ‘Getting very weak on her feet.’

“By-and-by, ‘Picaninny plenty tumble down.’ It was pitiful; but we knew that we were close on her at last. By this time, of course, she had been out for seventy-two hours.

“I stuck to the track, with the lubra and Bob. We could hear some of the chaps coo-eeing now and again, and calling ‘Mary!’"—— “Bad line — bad line,” muttered Saunders impatiently.

“Seemed to confuse things, anyway,” replied Thompson. “And it was very doubtful whether the little girl was likely to answer a strange voice.

At last, however, the lubra stopped, and pointed to a sun-bonnet, all dusty, lying under a spreading hop-bush. She spoke to Bob again. “‘Picaninny sleep here last night,’ says Bob. And that was within a hundred yards of the spot I had made-for after hearing the first call. I knew it by three or four tall pines, among a mass of pine scrub. However, the lubra turned off at an angle to the right, and run the track — not an hour old — toward where we had heard the second call.

We were crossing fresh horse-tracks every few yards; and never two minutes but what somebody turned-up to ask the news. But to show how little use anything was except fair tracking, the lubra herself never saw the child till she went right up to where she was lying between two thick, soft bushes that met over her, and hid her from sight “—— “Asleep?” I suggested, with a sinking heart.

“No. She had been walking along — less than half-an-hour before — and she had brushed through between these bushes, to avoid some prickly scrub on both sides; but there happened to be a bilby-hole close in front, and she fell in the sort of trough, with her head down the slope; and that was the end of her long journey. It would have taken a child in fair strength to get out of the place she was in; and she was played-out to the last ounce. So her face had sunk down on the loose mould, and she had died without a struggle.

“Bob snatched her up the instant he caught sight of her, but we all saw that it was too late. We coo-eed, and the chap with the bell kept it going steady. Then all hands reckoned that the search was over, and they were soon collected round the spot.

“Now, that little girl was only five years old; and she had walked nothing less than twenty-two miles — might be nearer twenty-five.”

There was a minute’s silence. Personal observation, or trustworthy report, had made every one of Thompson’s audience familiar with such episodes of new settlement; and, for that very reason, his last remark came as a confirmation rather than as an over-statement. Nothing is more astonishing than the distances lost children have been known to traverse.

“How did poor Rory take it?” I asked.

“Dan? Well he took it bad. When he saw her face, he gave one little cry, like a wounded animal; then he sat down on the bilby-heap, with her on his knees, wiping the mould out of her mouth, and talking baby to her.

“Not one of us could find a word to say; but in a few minutes we were brought to ourselves by thunder and lightning in earnest, and the storm was on us with a roar. And just at this moment Webster of Kulkaroo came up with the smartest blackfellow in that district.

“We cleared out one of the wagonettes, and filled it with pine leaves, and laid a blanket over it. And Spanker gently took the child from Dan, and laid her there, spreading the other half of

the blanket over her. Then he thanked all hands, and made them welcome at the station, if they liked to come. I went, for one; but Bob went back to Kulkaroo direct, so I saw no more of him till to-night.

“Poor Dan! He walked behind the wagonette all the way, crying softly, like a child, and never taking his eyes from the little shape under the soaking wet blanket. Hard lines for him! He had heard her voice calling him, not an hour before; and now, if he lived till he was a hundred, he would never hear it again.

“As soon as we reached the station, I helped Andrews, the storekeeper, to make the little coffin. Dan would n’t have her buried in the station cemetery; she must be buried in consecrated ground, at Hay. So we boiled a pot of gas-tar to the quality of pitch, and dipped long strips of wool-bale in it, and wrapped them tight round the coffin, after the lid was on, till it was two ply all over, and as hard and close as sheet-iron. Ay, and by this time more than a dozen blackfellows had rallied-up to the station.

“Spanker arranged to send a man with the wagonette, to look after the horses for Dan. The child’s mother wanted to go with them, but Dan refused to allow it, and did so with a harshness that surprised me. In the end, Spanker sent Ward, one of the narangies. I happened to camp with them four nights ago, when I was coming down from Kulkaroo, and they were getting back to Goolumbulla. However,” added Thompson, with sublime lowliness of manner, “that’s what I meant by saying that, in some cases, a person’s all the better for being uncivilised. You see, we were nowhere beside Bob, and Bob was nowhere beside the old lubra.”

“Had you much of a yarn with the poor fellow when you met him?” I asked.

“Evening and morning only,” replied Thompson, maintaining the fine apathy due to himself under the circumstances. “I was away all night with the bullocks, in a certain paddock. Did n’t recognise me; but I told him I had been there; and then he would talk about nothing but the little girl. Catholic priest in Hay sympathised very strongly with him, he told me, but could n’t read the service over the child, on account of her not being baptised. So Ward read the service. His people are English Catholics. Most likely Spanker thought of this when he sent Ward. Dan didn’t seem to be as much cut-up as you’d expect. He was getting uneasy about his paddock; and he thought Spanker might be at some inconvenience. But that black beard of his is more than half white already. And — something like me — I never thought of mentioning this to Bob when he was here. Absence of mind. Bad habit.”

“This Dan has much to be thankful for,” remarked Stevenson, with strong feeling in his voice. “Suppose that thunderstorm had come on a few hours sooner — what then?”

There was a silence for some minutes.

“Tell you what made me interrupt you, Thompson, when I foun’ fault with singin’-out after lost kids,” observed Saunders, at length. “Instigation o’ many a pore little (child) perishin’ unknownst. Seen one instance when I was puttin’ up a bit o’ fence on Grundle — hundred an’ thirty-four chain an’ some links — forty-odd links, if I don’t disremember. Top rail an’ six wires.

Jist cuttin’ off a bend o’ the river, to make a handy cattle-paddick. They’d had it fenced-off with dead-wood, twelve or fifteen years before; but when they got it purchased they naterally went-in for a proper fence. An’ you can’t lick a top rail an’ six wires, with nine-foot panels “— — “You’re a bit of an authority on fencin’,” remarked Baxter drily.

“Well, as I was sayin’,” continued Saunders; “this kid belonged to a married man, name o’ Tom Bracy, that was workin’ mates with me.

One night when his missus drafted the lot she made one short; an’ she hunted roun’, an’ called, an’ got excited; an’ you couldn’t blame the woman. Well, we hunted all night-me, an’ Tom, an’ Cunningham, the cove that was engaged to cart the stuff on-to the line. Decent, straightforrid chap, Cunningham is, but a (sheol) of a liar when it shoots him. Course, some o’ you fellers knows him. Meejum-size man, but one o’ them hard, wiry, deepchested, deceivin’ fellers. See him slingin’ that heavy red-gum stuff about, as if it was broad palin’. Course, he was on’y three-an’ twenty; an’ fellers o’ that age don’t know their own strenth. His bullocks was fearful low at the time, on account of a trip he had out to Wilcanniar with flour; an’that’s how he

Continued on Page 41

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Seadream magic

■ Seadream Yacht Club is to broaden its reach into the Caribbean by taking-in its less-visited southern islands between January and April 2016, including making three round-trip sailings from colourful Bridgetown in Barbados, and nine between Bridgetown and historic little Marigot on French colonial St Martin.

The mega motor-cruiser SeaDream I, that carries a maximum of just 112 guests served by 95 crew, will include St Vincent, the Grenadines, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Nevis, St Barts, Isle de Saints, St Lucia and others on various sailings, and on some the tiny private island of Mustique with its holiday mansions for such rich and famous as Mick Jagger and Tommy Hilfiger.

As well as beaches, shopping and shoreside dining, optional shore excursions will offer horseback riding along remote beaches, visits to colonial-era settlements dating back to the 1700s, an open-air jeep ride into a picturesque valley with spectacular waterfalls, and a museum whose artefacts date back to 1800BC and the history of the islands’ sugar-cane slavery period.

Details of 2015 packages on Page 3

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● Sailings begin from as low as US$3535pp twin share for a 6day Bridgetown round-trip sailing on January 3, 2016.

The National Observer is printed by Streamline Press, 155 Johnston St, Fitzroy, Vic. for the publisher, L ocal Media Pty Ltd, ABN 67 096 680 063, of the registered office, 30 Glen Gully Road, Eltham, Vic. 3095. Responsibility for election and referendum comment is accepted by Ash Long. Copyright © 2015, Local Media Pty Ltd (ACN) 096 680 063).

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2015-16 Travel Planner

Hastings Cove Holiday Apartments Fact File

1 x Queen Bed, 2 x Single Beds, 1 x Sofa Bed Facilities: NAME: Hastings Cove Holiday Apartments Bed linen included (all beds triple sheeted), Non-smoking only ADDRESS: 2 Creek St, Hastings Point, NSW 2489 Air conditioning, Balcony / courtyard, Opening windows PHONE: (02) 6676 3999 Open plan lounge/dining, CD player, DVD player CONT ACT ONTA CT:: Anne Worsley Alarm clock, TV, Full kitchen, Dishwasher WEB: www.hastingscove.com Refrigerator - full size, Tea/Coffee Making E-MAIL: info@hastingscove.com Separate shower & bath, Laundry, Washing machine Dryer, Iron & ironing board, Clothes line / airer Great for couples and families, Hastings Cove Waterfront HoliUnder cover parking, with extra car parks available for your day Apartments are the quiet family getaway on the Tweed Coast, with fully furnished 2 bedroom self catering holiday second car or boat (by arrangement) units in landscaped grounds.

A short 150 metres stroll to the beach, with direct access to a sheltered estuary, you and the family can enjoy great fishing, and activities like swimming, snorkeling, sand castles, kayaking and surfing.

Stay for 2 nights or longer, with affordable 2 night to 7 night deals from $105 per night.

Longer stay packages of 2 weeks or more are also available, just ask.

We have four apartment options to choose from.

Our ground floor and upstairs garden view apartments overlook our landscaped gardens and swimming pool, upstairs estuary view units, have water views overlooking the estuary from the balcony, and our stand alone apartments have no units above them.

Just 25 minutes drive to the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, you can relax and enjoy uncrowded beaches, explore national parks, visit neighbouring coastal villages and local markets, or go bush walking, cycling, fishing or surfing.

Hastings Cove 4 star rated holiday apartments offers four family holiday unit accommodation options.

Ground floor and second floor garden view apartments overlook our landscaped gardens and swimming pool, great for watching the kids having a splash in the pool as you relax.

Or you can choose a "stand alone" garden view apartment with no upstairs unit above.

Upstairs estuary view units have a wide balcony overlooking Cudgera Creek, perfect for an alfresco breakfast or a romantic sunset dinner.

Apartments 2 Bedroom Apartments Sleeps 2-6 people

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2015-16 Travel Planner

The Watertank Bed and Breakfast

Solar-pas ently built - 4 bedr ooms with Solar-passs i vvee, rree ccently bedrooms ensuites, also three large living areas.

Perfect for families and groups.

Jus w a y, south of P ort Mac quarie Justt off the high highw Port Macquarie quarie,, rural outlook, near National Parks and beaches.

Pet friendly available with large fences area.

Fact File NAME: The Watertank Bed and Breakfast ADDRESS: 69 Forest Rd, Moorland, NSW 2443 PHONE: 0423 057 616 CONT ACT ONTA CT:: Jan WEB: www.thewatertankbb.com E-MAIL: jan@thewatertankbb.com

The Watertank property is set in a peaceful location looking out to the South Brother Mountain, which was named by Captain Cook in 1770.

The main house has 4 spacious bedrooms with private ensuite in each room. There is a cosy sitting area and an outside porch which is perfect for unwinding and taking in the beautiful scenery over breakfast or lunch.

The farm-stay, self-catering cottage next door has 3 bedrooms - 2 queen and one twin. There are extra beds also, providing accommodation for 7–9 people. There is a basic Welcome to the Watertank! This rural retreat that offers tran- kitchen, a lounge/dining room, a bathroom, separate toilet quil surrounds, personalised service and comfortable accom- and a BBQ outside. modation at an affordable price.

Jan came fr om SSyy dne eamed ooff from dneyy and has alw alwaay s dr dreamed Ideal for couples and families who want to unwind in the running a bed and breakfast. That dream became a beauty of nature. On a long trip? The Watertank is perfect for reality not so long ago when Jan built a brand new an overnight stay. retreat. The perfect oasis to escape, relax and rejuThis B&B was purpose-built in 2009 and has many environ- venate. mentally-friendly features – solar electricity panels and rainThis rural retreat offers fabulous scenery right oom windo w! C ome and eexperixperio m yyour our bedr water tanks as well as cross-ventilation using ceiling fans, raked fr fro bedroom window Come ceilings and louvre windows; polished concrete walls and brick ence the fresh air of country living whilst you enjoy walls to utilise thermal mass and a lovely northerly aspect a fresh farm breakfast. across the paddocks.

Owner Jan says: “I find that it is very comfortable to live in and I have a wood-burning fire when it gets chilly.

“Seven hours from Canberra and seven hours from Brisbane.

It's a great place to recharge your battery and indulge in a fresh farm breakfast before heading off.

“Enjoy the rural scenery from your bedroom window. Rooms are available in king, queen and twin with ensuites for your privacy.

“Take in the fresh air and peace this oasis has to offer. Enjoy the outdoor spa! Each room offers you free access to Wi-Fi since we know you need some of the pleasures from back home. The Watertank is a environmentally friendly holiday destination, which is solar powered and utilises rain water. The Watertank has 4 bedrooms with ensuites. Packages are available for up to 8. Wheel chair access and we are pet friendly.

National Observer - July 2015 - Page 5

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2015-16 Travel Planner

Willowbrook Cottages B&B

Fact File NAME: Willowbrook Cottages B&B S: 5 Jenkins Terrace, Naracoorte, SA 5271 ADDRES ADDRESS: PHONE: (08) 8762 0259, 0419 802 728 CONT ACT ONTA CT:: Lynette Lauterbach WEB: www.willowbrookcottages.com.au E-MAIL: stay@willbrookcottages.com.au

The allure and charm of bygone years combined with all the modern conveniences expected by today's traveller - that's the brilliant blend of Willowbrook Cottages B&Bs. Centrally located in Naracoorte, within walking distance to shops and eateries, Willowbrook Cottages are the ideal base for exploring the Limestone Coast.

Whether it's a BBQ under the shady willow, a glass of red by the fire or a soak in the claw foot bath, century old Willowbrook is sure to please.

3 bedrooms accommodating a maximum of 6 guests (2 queen size and 2 single beds. All linen supplied)

Reverse cycle air conditioning / wood heater in living room Ceiling fans in bedrooms TV, DVD player and selection of DVDs Spacious bathroom with clawfoot bath and separate shower Fully equipped kitchen and laundry Large shady backyard with BBQ available Provisions for cooked/continential breakfast

Page 6 - National Observer - July 2015

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2015-16 Travel Planner

On The River Apartments Fact File NAME: On The River Apartments ADDRES S: 1/36 Duporth Ave, Maroochydore, Qld 4558 ADDRESS: PHONE: (07) 5430 1200 CONT ACT ONTA CT:: Laurel WEB: www.ontheriverapartments.com E-MAIL: info@on-theriver.com

On T he Riv er Luxury Apartments The River Absolute river frontage, north-facing, spacious two & three bedroom self-contained apartments. Enjoy extensive views of river, ocean and hinterland.

P eac eful riv erside loca tion riverside location eaceful Perfect location Just a short stroll from our convenient location,you can enjoy fine restaurants, patrolled beaches, numerous sporting facilities or boutique shopping at the awardwinning Sunshine Plaza.Meander down vibrant Ocean Street and enjoy the many fine eateries with sensational cuisine .

FANTASTIC VIEWS Perfect Location From your large priv ate balcony, enjoy the serenity of the ever-changing Maroochy River. You can sit by the waters edge and enjoy the natural beauty and peaceful scenery.

The River offers plenty of opportunity for fun filled activity for the whole family. The kids just love it here, playing in the water, building sandcastles or chasing soldier crabs. free fishing gear is supplied for the kids and we have Kayaks for hire.

Maroochydore’s Family Friendly , budget accommodation at its best!!

Nice catch for breakfast PRIVATE FACILITIES From our private jetty and pontoon , take the time to relax by wetting your line & catching your dinner. You can tie up your boat at your doorstep. You’ll enjoy the pool, spa, bbqs all set in lovely lawns and gardens. Our apartments offer the perfect location for a Sunshine Coast Holiday.

PENTHOUSE APARTMENTS From the Penthouses, wind down with family and friends using your own private rooftop entertaining area, including electric BBQ. Two bedroom penthouse also has a private heated spa for your pleasure.

On T he Riv er F The River Fee aatt u rree s : ■ Secure undercover parking ■ Saltwater pool & spa (heated in winter) ■ BBQ area set in tropical gardens ■ Apartments serviced weekly ■ Games room with pool table ■ Private jetty ■ Lifts to all levels for easy access ■ Large 2 & 3 bedroom apartments with en-suite ■ Direct dial telephones ■ Foxtel TV & Broadband Internet ■ Security intercom system ■ All rooms have colour TV, some with video, DVD, stereo, Austar ■ All units are Air Conditioned ■ Friendly on-site managers to ensure your stay is enjoyable ■ S/contained, full laundry, (w/machine,dryer) kitchen (oven, microwave dishwasher) ■ There’s plenty for everyone to do

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National Observer - July 2015 - Page 7

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2015-16 Travel Planner

Key Largo Apartments Fact File NAME: Key Largo Apartments ADDRES S: 1911-1915 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads, ADDRESS: Qld 4220 PHONE: (07) 5535 8022 CONT ACT CT:: Angela O’Neill ONTA WEB: www.keylargoapartments.com.au E-MAIL: info@keylargoapartments.com.au

H aavv e a Gold C oas o rremember emember Coas oastt Holida Holidayy tto emember,, just 30 metres to Burleigh Beach. The Beach, Trip A dvisor vvot ot ed as the Bes u sstr tr alia Advisor oted Bestt Beach in A Au tralia this yyear ear . ear.

Your spacious Air Conditioned Apartment has a view of our Tropical Gardens. Our Pool and Spa is heated all the year around for your enjoyment.

Stay at Key Largo where your accommodation is close to Shops and Clubs, Transport is at your door to Theme Parks and Gold Coast Attractions.

Yes, we have our Large undercover BBQ area next to our Pool and Heated Spa But it’s our position ... that’s the reason you will never run out of things to do 10 golf courses within 20 minutes of your accommodation at Key Largo ... including what some say is the Best Golf Course on the Gold Coast, Burleigh Gold Coast Golf Club... just 5 mins drive away Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Surf World, Rock Pools are just a few minutes drive 3 Licensed Life Savings Clubs within are within a 5 minute walk of Key Largo Courtesy Bus will Pick up and drive you home to 2 nearby Licensed Sports Clubs.

Burleigh Beach has just been recognised as the “Best Beach” in Australia!

The main reason being it's location means it is uncrowded, unspoilt and picturesque * Patrolled by Lifesavers year around

* Uncrowded to Enjoy a Sunset or a Sunrise stroll * Roller blading, Walking and Bike Paths with Exercise Depots * Lots of BBQ & Picnic Areas… some undercover * Beach Art Enjoy a Sunrise or Sunset stroll along our uncrowded, unspoilt Burleigh Beach Walk north up to Nobby Outlook stop here and you can marvel at the best view of the Gold Coast stretching from Coolangatta to Stradbroke Island.

May - November keep an eye out for migrating whales going past.

Travelling on up Goodwin Terrace you’ll walk past the Famous Oscars Restuarant on the Beach to Burleigh Outlook (another marvelous sight), walk through the National Park to Tallebudgera Creek, where there is still water, a great spot for the kids to swim.

Burleigh Bears Club, has regular Live Music, inexpensive meals and a cold beverage!

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National Observer - July 2015 - Page 9

2015-16 Travel Planner

Royal Woods Resort

Situated in Ashmore on Queensland’s beautiful Gold Coast, Royal Woods is a world-class resort featuring unique tropical surroundings, exquisite rooms and breathtaking views.

Our Gold Coast luxury accommodation offers a range of spacious and stylish one and two-bedroom suites and freestanding three-bedroom villas perfect for weekend getaways, family breaks and longer term stays.

With an average of 20 feet between villas, an ideal location close to all the region's best attractions and a superb set of guest facilities, Royal Woods Gold Coast holiday accommodation offers privacy, peace and quiet, and all you need for your best break yet.

Enjoy the comfort of a home away from home combined with the indulgence of a luxury resort – book your stay with us today.

One and T w o Bedr oom Suit Tw Bedroom Suitee s Generously sized, fully furnished One Bedrooms Suites with kitchenettes and Two Bedroom Suites with full kitchens, one bathroom per bedroom and comfortable living and dining areas with TV. Most suites feature a spa bath.

One Bedroom Suites feature one Queen bed and are suitable for a maximum of 3 guests.

Two Bedroom Suites at our Ashmore accommodation feature one Queen sized bed and 2 single beds and are suitable for a maximum of 5 guests.

One and T wo Bedr oom Pr emium Suit Tw Bedroom Premium Suitee s Spacious one and two Bedroom Suites with indulgent corner spa baths, full kitchens, and comfortable living and dining areas with TV. One Bedroom Premium Suites feature one Queen bed and are suitable for a maximum of 3 guests.

Fact File NAME: Royal Woods Resort ADDRESS: 16 Mulyan Place, Ashmore, Qld 4214 PHONE: (07) 5597 0650 C ONT ACT ONTA CT:: Kamni Kalwani WEB: www.royalwoods.com.au E-MAIL: accounts_gc@royalwoods.com.au

Two Bedroom Premium Suites feature one Queen sized bed and 2 single beds and are suitable for a maximum of 5 guests.

Three Bedroom Villas Ideal for families and larger groups of friends, our 3 bedroom accommodation Gold Coast features a fully equipped kitchen, three bathrooms, laundry facilities, private lock-up garage, a comfortable living and dining area and an extra kitchenette. Unwind in the sun in your own private garden.

Three bedroom villas feature two Queen sized beds and two single beds and are suitable for a maximum of 8 guests.

Page 10 - National Observer - July 2015

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National Observer - July 2015 - Page 11

KIDS SPLATMASTER PAINTBALL

Page 12 - National Observer - July 2015

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Pet Friendly Accommodation

Home Away From Home Fact File NAME: Home Away From Home ADDRESS: 5 Laurel Ct, Olinda, Vic 378 PHONE: (03) 9751 0824, 0411 822 671 CONT ACT ONTA CT:: Ann Maree E-MAIL: fleurdelysinteriors.com.au

When Only The Best Will Do Total Lounge Room Luxury Daycare, grooming, love. hugs, playtime companionship, walks Must be house trained and clean When you are away from home on holidays, your pooch can be too, at Home Away From Home, at Olinda, in the Melbourne Dandenong Ranges.

Ann Maree offers total lounge room luxury for house trained and clean pooches, offering that extra personalised and individual love and care for your pet.

A range of services is available, including daycare, grooming, love, hugs, playtime, companisonship and walks.

Contact Ann Maree on 9751 0824 or 0411 822 671.

National Observer - July 2015 - Page 13

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Pet Friendly Accommodation

Jubilee Lake Co-Op Ltd

Jubilee Lake Holiday Park is a hidden gem and once our guests stumble upon us they keep coming back time and again.

Nestled amongst the rich beauty of Australia's spa country in Daylesford, lies Jubilee Lake Holiday Park.

Accommodation: The park offers a range of accommodation options for couples and families, including self contained cabins with lake views, non-ensuite cabins, onsite caravans, powered and unpowered camping sites.

Fact File NAME: Jubilee Lake Co-Op Ltd PHONE: 0407 534 925 CONT ACT ONTA CT:: Judy E-MAIL: jubilleelake@gmail.com

Jubilee Lake Cafe: Jubilee Lake Cafe is onsite offering sandwiches, pies, coffee and cake, tea, cold drinks, Ice creams & basic supplies.

Outdoor tables under the trees with beautiful lake view.

Location: Just 2.5kms from the town centre of Daylesford, where you'll find a great selection of cafĂŠs and restaurants that range from quirky and casual to fine dining experiences.

Things to do: Situated right on stunning Jubilee Lake where fishing, hire a canoe or paddleboat, bushwalking and bird watching are some of the activities that our guests can enjoy.In a quiet, natural bush setting, with abundant birdlife and resident peacocks.

We even have our own mineral spring on site.

There are an array of boutique shops, and award winning day spas, with our stunning location and our close proximity to all of the attractions, Jubilee Lake Holiday Park really is the perfect base to explore the region. The area is famous for its mineral springs and since the early 1800's people have been visiting the area to take the waters! There's also spectacular scenery, historic streetscapes, art galleries, golf courses, horse riding and a myriad of options for entertaining the whole family.

Free Wifi: If you need to check up on emails while on holidays, we've got free wireless internet for every guest who brings their laptop, plus a planned kids program during the long weekends in the warmer months. Check with reception for more details!

Facilities: Our facillities include picnic tables close to the lake, three fishing jetties for the keen fisherman, plus a playground and a huge grass area for all sorts of games. Jubilee Lake is stunning all year round, during summertime the lake is a popular swim-

ming spot and is popular with day visitors and guests alike.

We have two camp kitchens, free BBQ's, laundry, disabled toilet and a very relaxing atmosphere!

Pet Friendly: We have one Onsite van where your pampered pooch can stay inside with you.

Dogs are allowed in the park on leads however they are not permitted in the cabins. They are most welcome in your tent, caravan or sleep in your car.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Page 14 - National Observer - July 2015

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Pet Friendly Accommodation

Tathra Beachside Fact File NAME: Tathra Beachside ADDRES S: Tathra Beach Family Park, ADDRESS: Andy Poole Drive, Tathra, NSW 2550 PHONE: (02) 6494 1303 CONT ACT CT:: Michelle ONTA WEB: www.tathrabeachside.com.au E-MAIL: diva@ihug.com.au

Four-legged friends have been travelling with their owners for years but it's only recently that good quality holiday parks have come to appreciate the importance of pets in parks.

Tathra Beachside is definitely one of those enlightened destinations and is more than happy to welcome pets on all sites most of the year (excluding 26th Dec till 9th Jan). Naturally guide dogs are welcome any time.

This multi award-winning park boasts over 500 metres of absolute beach frontage, in the pretty seaside town of Tathra on the beautiful Sapphire Coast. This stretch of coast has been recognised as Australia's Coastal Wilderness for its unspoilt landscape and absence of crowds.

On arrival, canine guests are presented with a welcome treat, and the opportunity to join a pet club - 'BIG PAW' - to receive news about up-coming pet specials. A range of pet supplies are on offer for purchase at reception, as well as a dog wash station to rinse off the sand and salt from playing on the stunning dog-friendly Tathra Beach.

Tathra Beachside offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit all needs and budgets, and guests are spoilt with immaculately clean facilities. Importantly, they recognise that not everyone who holidays with their pet has their own van, so they now offer four pet-friendly cottages complete

with large decks for alfresco dining, pet bedding, enclosed gardens and kennels only metres from the beach.

Tathra Beachside delivers fun-filled beach memories that last your family a lifetime. Being committed animal lovers, they know your pet is important and invite you to come and see what all the fuss is about!

National Observer - July 2015 - Page 15

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Pet Friendly Accommodation

Sabina On Little Myers Fact File NAME: Sabina On Little Myers ADDRESS: 32 Sheridan St, Hamlyn Heights, Vic 3215 PHONE: 0427 785 404 CONT ACT ONTA CT:: Helen WEB: www.sabinaonlittlemyers.com.au E-MAIL: stay@sabinaonlittlemyers.com.au

Sabina on Little Myers can accommodate 1-6 guests. The home allows guests to occupy the whole house and gardens, giving total privacy, relaxation and a home away from home experience.

Services Free WiFi Internet Central heating and cooling Cot hire available A light continental breakfast is provided for the first morning.

Off Street parking in the backyard with undercover parking and a single garage.

Complimentary weekly cleaning for bookings longer than one week.

No smoking Sabina lounge Cosy lounge room with open gas log fire LCD TV, DVD player and Stereo Games console A selection of games and movies Magazines and books E xxquisit quisit eakf tion in the quisitee Bed & Br Breakf eakfaa sstt A Acc c ommoda ommodation heart of Geelong Tucked away in the more peaceful part of Geelong’s CBD is a delightful 3 bedroom Victorian holiday cottage. The space is an eye opener; beyond the gorgeous façade there is a cosy lounge, three bedrooms and a spacious kitchen and dining that looks out onto a grassy rear garden which features a BBQ, private off street parking and space to relax.

Whether you are after a romantic weekend getaway, celebrating a special occasion or in need of relaxation and rejuvenation all you need to bring are your personal items.

Everything else is provided; from quality linen and towels, bath robs and slippers and a light continental breakfast.

Sabina’s greatest charm is her location. From the front door it’s only a short stroll to all of Geelong’s inner-city and waterfront attractions, cafes, gourmet restaurants and shopping.

You’ll also find shopping, arts and crafts and dining precincts in Pakington Street, West Geelong, Belmont and Highton.

If time allows, don’t forget to explore the Bellarine Peninsula, the quaint little villages along the way and the regions fine food and wine.

Busines ecutiv tion Businesss and Ex Executiv ecutivee A Acc c ommoda ommodation in Central Geelong There is nothing better than having a place to call home when on a business trip.

Tucked away in the quieter part of the town, Sabina on Little Myers provides a sophisticated base for business and executive guests looking for accommodation in Geelong. Free WiFi internet is available to all our guests. A light continental breakfast is provided for the first morning, together with refreshments on arrival. A garden to retreat to and secure off street parking is available in the backyard. An ideal luxury home away from home experience for executives requiring short or longer term rental in Geelong.

Page 16 - National Observer - July 2015

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www.MelbourneObser ver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 41

Observer Classic Books From Page 24 come to take this job ” “Never mind Cunningham; he’s dead now,” observed Donovan indifferently.

“Well as I was tellin’ you,” pursued Saunders, “we walked that bend the whole (adj.) night, singin’ out ‘Hen-ree! Hen-ree!’ an’ in the mornin’ we was jist as fur as when we started. Tom, he clears-off to the station before daylight, to git help; an’ by this time I’d come to the conclusion that the kid must be in the river, or out on the plains. I favoured the river a lot; but I bethought me o’ where this dead-wood fence had bin burnt, to git it out o’ our road, before the grass got dry.

So I starts at one end to examine the line o’ soft ashes that divided the bend off o’ the plain — an’ har’ly a sign o’ traffic across it yet. Had n’t went, not fifteen chain, before I bumps up agen the kid’s tracks, plain as A B C, crossin’ out towards the plain. Coo-ees for Cunningham; shows him the tracks; an’ the two of us follers the line o’ ashes right to the other end, to see if the tracks come back. No (adj.) tracks. So we tells the missus; an’ she clears-out for the plain, an’ me after her. Cunningham, he collars his horse, an’ out for the plain too. Station chaps turns-up, in ones an’ twos; an’ when they seen the tracks, they scattered for the plain too. Mostly young fellers, on good horses — some o’ them good enough to be worth enterin’ for a saddle, or the like o’ that. Curious how horses was better an’ cheaper them days nor what they are now. I had a brown mare that time; got her off of a traveller for three notes; an’ you’d pass her by without lookin’ at her; but of all the deceivin’ goers you ever come across”—— “No odds about the mare; she’s dead long ago,” interposed Thompson.

“About two o’clock,” continued Saunders cheerfully, “I was dead-beat an’ leg-tired; an’ I went back to the tent, to git a bite to eat; an’, comin’ back agen, I went roun’ to have another look at the tracks. Now, thinks I, what road would that little (wanderer) be likeliest to head from here?

An’ I hitches myself up on a big ole black log that was layin’ about a chain past the tracks, an’ I set there for a minit, thinkin’ like (sheol). You would n’t call it a big log for the Murray, or the Lower Goulb’n, but it was a fair-size log for the Murrumbidgee. I seen some whoppin’ redgums in Gippsland too; but the biggest one I ever seen was on the Goulb’n. Course, when I say ‘big,’ I mean measurement; I ain’t thinkin’ about holler shells, with no timber in ’em. This tree I’m speakin’ about had eleven thousand two hundred an’ some odd feet o’ timber in her; an’ Jack Hargrave, the feller that cut her”—— “His troubles is over too,” murmured Baxter.

“Well, as I was tellin’ you, I begun to fancy I could hear the whimper of a kid, far away.

‘Magination, thinks I. Lis’ns fit to break my (adj.) neck. Hears it agen. Seemed to come from the bank o’ the river. Away I goes; hunts roun’; lis’ns; calls ‘Hen-ree!’; lis’ns agen. Not a sound. Couple o’ the station hands happened to come roun’, an’ I told ’em. Well, after an hour o’ searchin’ an’ lis’nin’, the three of us went back to where I heard the sound. I hitches myself up on-to the log agen, an’ says I: “‘This is the very spot I was,’ says I, ‘when I heard it.’ An’ before the word was out o’ my mouth, (verb) me if I did n’t hear it agen! “‘There you are!’ says I. “‘What the (sheol) are you blatherin’ about?’ says they. “‘Don’t you hear the (adj.) kid?’ says I. “‘Oh, that ain’t the kid, you (adj.) fool!’ says they, lookin’ as wise as Solomon, an’not lettin’on they could n’t hear it. But for an’ all, they parted, an’ rode roun’ an’ roun’, as slow as they could crawl, stoppin’ every now an’ agen, an’ listening for all they was worth; an’ me settin’ on the log, puzzlin’ my brains. At last I hears another whimper. “‘There you are again!’ says I. “An’ one cove, he was stopped close in front o’ the butt end o’ the log at the time; an’ he jumps off his horse, an’ sticks his head in the holler o’ the log, an’ lets a oath out of him. Fearful feller to swear, he was. I disremember his name jis’ now; but he’d bin on Grundle ever since he bolted from his ole man’s place, in Bullarook Forest, on account of a lickin’ he got; an’ it was hard to best him among sheep; an’ now I rec’lect his name was Dick — Dick — it’s jist on the tip o’ my (adj.) tongue”—— “No matter hees name,” interposed Helsmok; “he have yoined der graat mayority too.”

“Well, as I was sayin’,” continued the patient Saunders, “we lis’ned at the mouth o’ the holler, an’ heard the kid whinin’ inside; an’ when w

e sung-out to him, he was as quiet as a mouse.

An’ we struck matches, an’ tried to see him, but he was too fur along, an’ the log was a bit crooked; an’ when you got in a couple o’ yards, the hole was so small you ‘d wonder how he done it. Anyhow, the two station blokes rode out to pass the word; an’ the most o’ the crowd was there in half-an-hour. The kid was a good thirty foot up the log; an’ there was no satisfaction to be got out of him. He would n’t shift; an’ by-‘n’by we come to the impression that he could n’t shift; an’ at long an’ at last we had to chop him out, like a bees’ nest. Turned out after, that the little (stray) had foun’ himself out of his latitude when night come on; an’ he’d got gumption enough to set down where he was, an’ wait for mornin’. He’d always bin told to do that, if he got lost. But by-‘n’-by he heard ‘Hen-ree! Henree!’ boomin’ an’ bellerin’ back an’ forrid across the bend in the dark; an’ he thought the boodyman, an’ the bunyip, an’ the banshee, an’ (sheol) knows what all, was after him. So he foun’ this holler log, an’ he thought he could nt git fur enough into it. He was about seven year old then; an’ that was in ‘71 — the year after the big flood — an’ the shearin’ was jist about over.

How old would that make him now? Nineteen or twenty. He left his ole man three year ago, to travel with a sheep-drover, name o’ Sep Halliday, an’he’s bin with the same bloke ever since. Mos’ likely some o’ you chaps knows this Sep? Stout butt of a feller, with a red baird. Used to mostly take flocks for truckin’ at Deniliquin; but that got too many at it — like everything else — an’ he went out back, Cooper’s Creek way, with three thousand Gunbar yowes, the beginnin’ o’ las’ winter, an’ I ain’t heard of him since he crossed at Wilcanniar”—— “No wonder,” I observed; “he’s gone aloft, like the rest.”

There was a pause, broken by Stevenson, in a voice that brought constraint on us all: “Bad enough to lose a youngster for a day or two, and find him alive and well; worse, beyond comparison, when he’s found dead; but the most fearful thing of all is for a youngster to be lost in the bush, and never found, alive or dead. That’s what happened to my brother Eddie, when he was about eight year old. You must remember it, Thompson?”

“Was n’t my father out on the search?” replied Thompson. “Tom’s father, too. You were living on the Upper Campaspe.”

“Yes,” continued Stevenson, clearing his throat; “I’ve been thinking over it every night for these five-and-twenty years, and it seems to me the most likely thing that could have happened to him was to get jammed in a log, like that other little chap. Then after five years, or ten years, or twenty years, the log gets burned, and nobody notices a few little bones, crumbled among the ashes.

“I was three or four years older than Eddie,” he resumed hoarsely “and he just worshipped me.

I had been staying with my uncle in Kyneton for three months, going to school; and Eddie was lost the day after I came home. We were out, gathering gum — four of us altogether — about a mile and a half from home; and I got cross with the poor little fellow, and gave him two or three hits; and he started home by himself, crying. He turned round and looked at me, just before he got out of sight among the trees; and that was the last that was ever seen of him alive or dead. My God! When I think of that look, it makes me thankful to remember that every day brings me nearer to the end. The spot where he turned round is in the middle of a cultivationpaddock now, but I could walk straight to it in the middle of the darkest night.

“Yes; he started off home, crying. We all went the same way so soon afterward that I expected every minute to see him on ahead. At last we thought we must have passed him on the way.

No alarm yet, of course; but I was choking with grief, to think how I’d treated the little chap; so I gave Maggie and Billy the slip, and went back to meet him. I knew from experience how glad he would be.

“Ah well! the time that followed is like some horrible dream. He was lost at about four in the afternoon; and there would be about a dozen people looking for him, and calling his name, all night. Next day, I daresay there would be about thirty. Next morning, my father offered £100 reward for him, dead or alive; and five other men guaranteed £10 each. Next day, my father’s reward was doubled; and five other men put down their names for another £50. Next day, Government offered £200. So between genuine

bush was fairly alive with people; and everyone within thirty miles was keeping a look-out.

“No use. The search was gradually dropped, till no one was left but my father. Month after month, he was out every day, wet or dry, and my mother waiting at home, with a look on her face that frightened us — waiting for the news he might bring. And, time after time, he took stray bones to the doctor; but they always turned out to belong to sheep, or kangaroos, or some other animal. Of course, he neglected the place altogether, and it went to wreck; and our cattle got lost; and he was always meeting with people that sympathised with him, and asked him to have a drink — and you can hardly call him responsible for the rest.

However, on the anniversary of the day that Eddie got lost, my mother took a dose of laudanum; and that brought things to a head. My father had borrowed every shilling that the place would carry, to keep up the search; and there was neither interest nor principal forthcoming, so the mortgagee — Wesleyan minister, I’m sorry to say — had to sell us off to get his money.

We had three uncles; each of them took one of us youngsters; but they could do nothing for my father. He hung about the public-houses, getting lower and lower, till he was found dead in a stable, one cold winter morning. That was about four years after Eddie was lost.”

Stevenson paused, and restlessly changed his position, then muttered, in evident torture of mind: “Think of it! While he was going away, crying, he looked back over his shoulder at me, without a word of anger; and he walked up against a sapling, and staggered — and I laughed! — Great God! — I laughed!”

That was the end of the tank-sinker’s story; and silence fell on our camp. Doubtless each one of us recalled actions of petty tyranny toward leal, loving, helpless dependents, or inferiors in strength — actions which now seemed to rise from the irrevocable past, proclaiming their exemption from that moral statute of limitations which brings self-forgiveness in course of time.

For an innate Jehovah sets His mark upon the Cain guilty merely of bullying or terrifying any brother whose keeper he is by virtue of superior strength; and that brand will burn while life endures. (Conversely — does such remorse ever follow disdain of authority, or defiance of power?

I, for one, have never experienced it).

Soon a disquietude from another source set my mind at work in troubled calculation of probabilities. At last I said: “Would you suppose, Steve, that the finding of George Murdoch’s body was a necessary incitement among the causes that led to the little girl’s getting lost?”

“Domson’s ascleep,” murmured Helsmok. “I tink dey all ascleep. I wass yoos dropp’n off mineself.”

And in two minutes, his relaxed pose and regular breathing affirmed a kind of fellowship with the rest, in spite of his alien birth and objectionable name. But I could n’t sleep. Dear innocent, angel-faced Mary! perishing alone in the bush!

Nature’s precious link between a squalid Past and a nobler Future, broken, snatched away from her allotted place in the long chain of the ages!

Heiress of infinite hope, and dowered with latent fitness to fulfil her part, now so suddenly fallen by the wayside! That quaint dialect silent so soon! and for ever vanished from this earth that keen, eager perception, that fathomless love and devotion! But such is life.

Yet it is well with her. And it is well with her father, since he, throughout her transitory life, spoke no word to hurt or grieve her. Poor old Rory! Reaching Goolumbulla, after his sorrowful journey, his soft heart would be stabbed afresh by the sight of two picture-books, which I had posted a fortnight before. And how many memories and associations would confront him when he returned to his daily round of life! How many reminders that the irremediable loss is a reality, from which there can be no awakening!

How many relics to be contemplated with that morbid fascination for the re-quickening of a slumbering and intolerable sense of bereavement! But the saddest and most precious of memorials will be those little copper-toed boots that she left along the way. Deepest pathos lies only in homely things, since the frailness of mortality is the pathetic centre, and mortality is nothing but homely.

Hence, no relic is so affecting as the half-worn boots of the dead. Thus in the funeral of that gold-escort trooper, when I was but little older

than poor Mary. The armed procession — the Dead March — the cap and sword on the coffin — seemed so imposing that I forthwith resolved to be a trooper myself. That ambition passed away; but the pathos of the empty boots, reversed in the stirrups of the led horse, has remained with me ever since.

From sad reflections, I seemed to be thus drifting into philosophic musing, when Helsmok shook me gently by the shoulder. A glance at the setting moon showed that I had been asleep, and that it was long past midnight. Here, therefore, ends the record of December the 9th; and you might imagine this chapter of life fitly concluded.

But sometimes an under-current of plot, running parallel with the main action, emerges from its murky depths, and causes a transient eddy in the interminable stream of events. Something of this kind occurred on the morning of the 10th.

“Collince,” said the Dutchman softly. “Don’ wake op der odder vellers — do no goot yoos now. I gone ‘way roun’ der liknum, und der bullock und der horse not dere. Notteen cronk, I hope. Mi’s well com anodder trip?”

I left my lair, and we walked out across the plain, followed by the faithful Pup. When we had ranged for an hour, in half-mile zig-zags, day began to break; and nothing had turned-up, except four of Stevenson’s horses. But we heard, through the stillness of the dawn, a faint, faraway trampling of hoofs. We headed for the sound, and presently found ourselves meeting three or four dozen of mixed bullocks and horses convoyed by five mounted Chinamen. We stood aside to let them pass. By this time, an advancing daylight enabled me to recognise the roan horse of Sam Young (also called Paul) with a rider who was more likely to be that proselyte than anyone else. At all events, he turned upon me the light of a countenance, broad, yellow and effulgent as the harvest moon of pastoral poetry; and, like a silver clarion, rung the accents of that unknown tongue: “Ah-pang-sen-lo! Missa Collin! sen-lo! Tleepo’ week, me plully liah, all li; nek time, you plully liah, all li! Missa Smyte talkee you bimeby! Hak-i-long-see-ho! You lescue Walligal Alp bullock — eh? You killee me, by cli! Whe’ you holse? Ling-tang-hon-me! My wuld, Tlinidad plully goo’ glass, no feah! Hi-lung-singi-lo-i-lo!”

“Goo’ molnin’, Missa Helsmok!” chanted another yellow agony. “Nicee molnin’, Missa Helsmok! Whaffoh you tellee me lah wintel you sclew my plully neck? Lak-no-ha-long-lee!

Missa Smyte wakee you up — tyillin’-a-head you holse! Man-di-sling-lo-he!”

“Donder und blitzen!” retorted the Dutchman, striding toward the escort, which scattered at his approach. “Yomp off dem olt crocks, every man yack of you, und swelp mine Gott! I weel ponch der het of der vive of you altogedder mit ef so moch der yudge seegs mons pot me into der yail bot!”

“Helsmok,” said I, restraining him; “upon the heat and flame of thy distemper sprinkle cool patience. Let us accept the situation with dignity. Let us pit the honest frankness of the playedout Caucasian against the cunning of the successful Mongol.” Then, addressing the Turanian horde, and adapting my speech to the understanding of our lowest types: “My word!” I exclaimed admiringly, “you take-um budgeree rise out-a whitepeller, John! Merrijig you! Borak you shift-um that peller bullock; borak you shift-um that peller yarraman. Whitepeller gib-it you fi’ bob, buy-it opium. You savvy? Bale whitepeller tell-um boss. Bimeby whitepeller yabber like-it, ‘Chinaman berry good’-yabber likeit, ‘Comenavadrink, John’— yabber like-it, ‘Chinaman brother b’long-a whitepeller.’You savvy, John?”

“Lak-hi-lo-hen-slung!” carolled a third Chow disdainfully. “You go hellee shut up! Eulopean allee sem plully whool! Lum-la-no-sunhi-me!”

And the raiders went on their way, warbling remarks to each other in their native tongue, while the discomfited foreign devils hurried toward their camp, to give the alarm.

But Baxter, Donovan, Thompson, and Saunders had already gone out to feast their eyes on the change which such a night would make in the appearance of their stock. Stevenson was just getting on his feet, and feeling for his pipe.

Cartwright was still asleep. It seemed a pity to disturb him. Sharply whetted to this form of selfindulgence by hardship that would have finished any civilised man, he had gently dozed off as

Continued on Page 41

Page 42 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Observer Classic Books

From Page 41 the last bite of a copious and indigestible supper reached his emu-stomach, and had never moved since.

“Now who’d’a’thought them Chinks was so suddent?” he mused, as I woke him with the tidings. “Trapped! Gosh, what a slant I’d ‘a’ had at that (fellow)‘s horsepaddick, if I’d on’y knowed! Cut-an’-dried, I be boun’. No good chewin’ over it now, anyhow. After you with them matches, Stevenson; mine’s all done.”

“Barefooted Bob’s mixed-up in this,” remarked Stevenson, handing the matches. “Now, who would have suspected it, from his manner last night? But no one is to be trusted. Better take our saddles and bridles with us.”

“In respect of imbecility and ignorance, I grant you,” I replied. “But in respect of deliberate deceit, most men are to be trusted. By-the-way, there’s four of your frames left — out near those coolibahs.”

“Stake the question on Bob,” he suggested. “May as well catch them, and ride.”

“So be it — to both proposals.”, The sun was now above the indefinable horizon, looming blood-red through the smoky haze.

All objects, even in the middle distance, showed vague and shadowy; but, knowing which way the marauders had taken their prey, we went after them, making a slight detour to secure the four horses. But we were just in time to discern a Chinese patrol tailing the same beasts toward a larger detachment, which was moving in the direction taken by the earlier draft. We followed; and, for my own part, even if I had not been personally interested, I should have judged it well worth going a mile to witness the strong situation which supplied a sequel to our homely little drama.

Precise and faithful execution, co-operating with masterly strategy had realised one of the most magnificent hauls of assorted trespassers that I have been privileged to survey. I jotted down a memo. of the numbers. There were 254 head of overworked and underfed beasts — 173 bullocks and 81 horses. These were in the custody of nine Mongolians, two Young–Australians, and two gentlemen — the latter being Mr. Smythe and Bert. Also, 7 bullocks and 3 horses left their bones in the paddock, as evidence of the bitter necessity which had prompted this illegal inva-

Melbourne

sion of pastoral leasehold. There were (including myself) 23 claimants, present in person, or arriving by twos or threes. A few of these were ludicrously abashed; others were insolent; but the large majority observed a fine nonchalance, shading down to apathy. And Mr. Smythe, true to his order of mind, treated the first with outrageous contumely, the second with silent contempt, and the third with a respect born of vague disquietude and anxiety for the morrow. A squatter — just or unjust, generous or avaricious, hearty or exclusive, debonair or harsh — should be a strong man; this was a weakling; and my soul went forth in genuine compassion for him.

The three hours occupied in sorting-out and settling-up, furnished, perhaps, as varied and interesting experiences to me as to anyone else in the cast: first, a thrill of dismay, altogether apart from the drama; and afterward, the fortuitous cognisance of a bit of by-play in the main action.

My horses, of course, were among the captives; each of them with both hobble-straps buckled round the same leg. Early in the reception, whilst treating for them, I was fairly disconcerting Mr. Smythe with my affability, when that sudden consternation came over me. Where was Pup? I put the two pairs of hobbles round Bunyip’s neck, and saddled Cleopatra without delay. The gallant beast, as if he knew the need for despatch, bucked straight ahead till he merged into an easy gallop. A few minutes brought me to the camp; and my anxiety was dispelled. The chaps had hung their tucker-bags on some adjacent lignum, out of reach of the wild pigs, but at a height accessible to Pup. The absence of the owners, though desirable, would not have been absolutely necessary to the performance which followed, for a kangaroo-dog can abstract food with a motion more silent — and certainly more swift — than that of a gnomon’s shadow on a sun-dial.

So I returned to the scene of interest, accompanied by Bunyip and Pup. Twelve or fifteen of the outlaws, having secured their saddle-horses, were sternly ordering the Chinamen to refrain from crowding the stock. The grass in this corner of the paddock was especially good; and these unshamed delinquents rode slowly through and through the mob, each vainly trying to identify and count his own; while now and then one

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would pass out to overbear some encroaching pagan by loud-spoken interrogations respecting a bay mare with a switch tail, or a strawberry bullock with wide horns — such ostentatious inquiry being accompanied by a furtive and vicious jabbing of evidence’s horse, or evidence himself, with some suitable instrument. Yet batch after batch was withdrawn and paid for; while the red sun rose higher, and Mr. Smythe became impatient and crusty, by reason of the transparent dallying.

Helsmok, after protracted and patient sorting, brought out nineteen of his horses, and paid for twenty, besides his hack. He said he would have to borrow a whip from someone, to “dost der yacket” of the impracticable animal that remained in the mob. Relevantly, one of the Chows had a stockwhip, the handle of which represented about six months’ untiring work on a wellselected piece of myall. Helsmok had all along been pained by the incongruity of such a gem in such keeping; and now having discharged his trespass-liability, the iron-wristed Hollander politely borrowed this jewel from its clinging owner, and so recovered his horse without difficulty.

Then, when the bereaved boundary man followed him across the plain, intoning psalms of remonstrance, Helsmok, making a playful clip at a locust, awkwardly allowed the lash to curl once-and-a-half round the body of John’s horse; close in front of the hind-legs. The cheap and reliable rider saved himself by the mane; but he let the stockwhip go at that.

Smythe — high-strung and delicate, in spite of his stockkeeper’s rig-out — was taking little interest in anything except the shillings he collected. At last, with a heart-drawn sigh, he beckoned to his brother.

“You must meet me with the buggy, Bert, when this is over. I have a splitting headache. We can do without you now.” Alas! what doth a station manager with splitting headaches? Answer, ye pastoralists!

Stevenson had just drafted and paid for his batch, when Barefooted Bob stalked up, bearing an unmistakable scowl on his frank face, and a saddle on his shoulder.

“Did you receive my message last night, Bob?” demanded Smythe.

“Well,” drawled Bob, “I couldn’t say whether it was las’ night or this mornin’— but I got your

message right enough.”

“And why didn’t you turn-up?”

“Why did n’t I turn-up,” repeated Bob thoughtfully. “P’r’aps you’ll be so good as to inform me if my work’s cleanin’out reservoys or mindin’ paddicks?”

“But you should be loyal to your employ,” replied Smythe severely.

“Meanin’ I shouldn’t turn dog?” conjectured Bob. “No more I don’t. I ain’t turnin’ dog on anybody when I stick to my own work, an’ keep off of goin’ partners with opium an’ leprosy.

Same time, mind you, I’d be turnin’ dog on the station if I took advantage o’ your message, to go round warnin’ the chaps that was workin’ on the paddick. Way I was situated, the clean thing was to stand out. An’ that’s what I done.”

Meanwhile, Stevenson had lingered to feel his pockets, sort his papers, examine his horse’s legs, and so forth, while his draft spread out over the grass.

“You were right, and I was wrong,” he remarked, aside to me. “Bob is trustworthy — ruthlessly so.”

“Only in respect of conscience, which is mere moral punctilio, and may co-exist with any degree of ignorance or error,” I replied. “I would n’t chance sixpence on his moral sense — nor on yours, either.”

“Thank-you, both for the lesson and the compliment. Don’t forget to call round at my camp, any time you’re crossing Koolybooka.

Goodbye.”

“Are your bullocks here, Bob?” demanded Smythe.

“Horses too,” replied Bob. “Ain’t you lookin’ at ’em?” But Smythe did n’t know half-a-dozen beasts on the station; and Bob (as he afterward told me) was aware of his boss’s weakness in Individuality.

“Take them and get to work then,” retorted Smythe. “How many bullocks are you working?” he added, with sudden suspicion — his idea evidently being that Bob might wish to do a good turn to some of the bullock drivers.

“Well, I’m workin’ten, but”—— “‘But!’—— I’ll have no ‘but’ about it!” snapped Smythe. “Take your ten, and GO!” “Right,” drawled Bob, and he slowly strode toward one of his own horses.

To Be Continued Next Issue

Observer Crossword Solution No 1 GYMK H A N A O Y O E L K N A T UR I SM E H S T OG S R A S H E S M I ME T R SME L T E R E O L L I T A E NNOB L E R I C E I B A C K S D OWN R E R G E ME A N I NGS U W S A SO L OMON E I I O T E D E DUC E S T M ME R I P HOB I A E O E I R A N A S T R A L W D W I S A A C K MOA T S N L A C E D I T AGGE D N I R H A I R I MMU N E N E M R AGE A DOP T E D M R R MA I N A I ROB I E G D R S P I ND L E S N E R U I A R SON I S T S O K M U EMB A L MS R A Y E L A P I ND I A N A E C N SMA R ME AGR E W N O MA Z E ME D I A T OR L DD T O R S T E A D I E S

B U S Y BOD E U R C I V I LWA A E L U MA R K I NG E A E H C L OS E T N Y B U S CH E E R L Y A V OA S I S UN S I N P E S E T A S U O G T H R OW I N A A E A R E N A L S T C L A H S I E V E I M E D E N EM I R AG E B G ORN A T E L S L R K I W I L A O S A Y S ON S E T P D U L E I OMEGA R M Z N I E X C I T I N T A I G E RN E S T R E A RU F L A R E U N B E GA V E L S E I E S S P L A S H T A P O H E L I P A D E I R D MONGO L I G V E M I S H E A R

Y A UC K L A A I N S N M R N E PO T I N F E D W A I CH AMB E NN A L L A R E L I E E L E S S R X M T OK Y A R I C E E C G E DD I T E R I M T I A S CH I N A T S R N G E T H E R E G J S R A L S A CH A O MA E N MB U E NO T A S I T U E L E S S T H G I R R Y GR A Z I E P E E G T E R A L GY N N I C E R E E N URG R OUR A UGB Y R A B Y I E E G E N S N A R O I NG C D N V B Y L I DD I E R N O S OGR E L G I A N H A O Z A I R S E NC E N R A D V E N BOE S I O D H E A V I R E AM D S A B E A U T I I D E R C E D L EO T A R

ND

T UMB L MR S A SM I SO L A A J A R S E R L H A R T E S T Y E D N OB T A R I CH E R C O R D I T H V U D E E S U B S I D RO T L M SM B UMP S E S R A L T A I L E Y R E N N T RO T A T R A Y S V R E R WH A E EMMA S A I O L A T R OU T DO R S R R A A U P S E T N T L MA Y G J AMB E E D T RWA WE E D Y R B I ROU S NOV A N E D MOC K L A L N E S T E E R OD S I A S MUC K R A I O E L E K ME N A S T E F A N B T R N EGA A S S E S M E R W T OA ME A D C E S MA T CH OP S U D S S HOR T

E R S N O T E D E A R I S G I N S O E R S E I S E R F O F F N U OR S U E T E D V L E R N E S T B O B I D E A D A Y R ND A E I NG C E E R Y P S AGE C R K E S V C E D R T E D S S T S A E BOX L E E N S

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 43

Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

e urn lbo Me

Observer Showbiz

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Radio: Our best radio newsreaders ...................... Page 44 Thea tr e: Las Vegas bound .............................................. Page 45 heatr tre: Country Music: Rob Foenander reports ...................... Page 44 Jim and Aar on: Top 10 lists, movies and DVDs ............... Page 46 Aaron: Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre, shows, auditions .......... Page 47 PL US THE LLO OVATT”S MEGA CRO PLUS CROSS SWORD

ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG Beth’s Aussie tour

● 3AW Nightline co-host Philip Brady is pictured with his new dog, Oro, now aged 7 weeks.

Reunion Blues ■ Melbourne-based Late Bloomers Productions brings the 80s back to its full pink taffeta glory in Reunion Blues, being presented at The Butterfly Club from July 1-5.

With a suite of anthems from the ‘raddest’ of decades, cheaper tickets for audiences who dress up and a heartwarming story of nostalgia and redemption, Reunion Blues offers a great girls' night out.

Written by award-winning playwright Bridgette Burton, Reunion Blues is the story of Farsi, played by Clare Pickering.

The show follows her story of high school stardom in Jesus Christ, Superstar, a dramatic fall from grace at the school formal, and then ultimate redemption at the 25-year reunion.

These anecdotes are filled with nostalgia, comedy, and most importantly, classic songs from the likes of Whitney Houston, Tiffany, Pat Benatar and Heart.

Reunion Blues is a comedy about coming of age, Molly Ringwald, and teenage love.

Performance Season: July 1-5 Times: 6pm (Wed and Sun), 7pm (Thurs, Fri, Sat) Venue: The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne Tickets: $25-$32 (Cheaper tickets for those dressed in 80s outfits) Bookings: thebutterflyclub.com - Cheryl Threadgold

● Jessica Papst in Only The Good Die Young.

■ Brisbane cabaret performer Jessica Papst will be performing in Melbourne from July 8-12 at the Butterfly Club, with her three-piece band and a show you can bring your Dad too because “for once, he might know the music”.

Only The Good Die Young will toast the ghosts of Rock ‘n’ Roll, celebrating taken too soon to that ‘great big band in the sky’.

There’s Janis Joplin and Southern Comfort, Jimi Hendrix and the ice-skater, Brian Jones and the Kamikaze Tequila shot.

Together with composer and arranger, Shanon Whitelock, of Oprahfication (winner Melbourne Short+Sweet Cabaret Tour ReadyAward and Melbourne Cabaret Festival Excellence Award, 2012, New York Musical Theatre Festival, 2014) Jessica and her band celebrate and re-imagine some incredible songs, and tell the stories surrounding the artists’ demise and, including some surprises.

Fresh from an engagement at the Brisbane Powerhouse as a part of the Queensland Cabaret Festival, Only The Good Die Young opens at The Butterfly Club on Wednesday, July 8 and runs for five nights. Bookings recommended.

Dates: July 8-12 Times: 6pm (Wed, Sun) 7pm (Thurs, Fri, Sat) Cost: $25/$32 Venue: The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne 3000 Tickets: thebutterflyclub.com - Cheryl Threadgold

● Beth Stelling ■ US comedian, writer and actor Beth Stelling is opening her whirlwind Australian tour in Melbourne, performing at Bella Union on Friday (July3).

Presented by Monster Touring, Blue Murder and Misspelt Youth, Beth Stelling’s inherently likeable demeanour makes for a delightful and hilarious contrast with her acerbic wit.

Beth’s numerous successful US performances resulted in the LA Weekly naming Beth in last year’s ‘top two female comedians to watch’.

For Australian fans of American alt-comedy as seen and heard on comedy podcasts and late night TV, this is a good chance to catch one of the scene’s rising stars live.

Beth Stelling promises a night that will appeal to devotees of theatresports, storytelling and mordant observational comedy.

Co-stars in her Melbourne show will be Bart Freebairn, Anne Edmonds and Xavier Michelides Melbourne performance: .Friday, July 3 Venue: Melbourne Bella Union, 54 Victoria St., Carlton Bookings: misspeltyouth.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

West End hit in Melbourne

● Clare Pickering stars in Reunion Blues at The Butterfly Club.

■ Tickets are now on sale for Headlong Theatre’s (UK) West End smash hit adaptation of 1984, being presented as part of the 2015 Melbourne Festival in association with Philip and Caroline Cornish, from October 16-25 at the Arts Centre Playhouse.

Written by George Orwell and published in 1949, 1984 is one of the most influential novels of all time, with its depiction of perpetual war pervasive government tracking and mind control and the corruption of language and history.

Its ideas have become our ideas, and Orwell's fiction is often said to be our reality.

In this critically acclaimed adaptation co-written and directed by Robert Icke and Duncan Macmillan, the paranoid lives of Winston and Julia crackle into life.

● The UK cast of West End smash hit 1984.

They bring us a realised vision of a permeating tale – a world teeming with flickering screens and hidden cameras.

More than a quarter of a million people have already seen Headlong’s radically staged production of 1984, said to be one of theatre’s most powerful events of recent times.

It received a nomination for Best New Play at the Olivier Awards, won a UK Theatre Award for Best Direction, and forms a timely reminder of the dangers posed by the digital age and society’s subconscious cooperation in our own surveillance.

Show details: October 16 – 25 Venue: Arts Centre Melbourne Playhouse. Tickets: Premium $109, A Reserve $89 / $79, B Reserve $79 / $69 Bookings: melbournefestival.com.au

Page 44 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Observer Showbiz info@country crossroads.com.au

Rob Foenander

Country at Pascoe Vale ■ The Pascoe Vale RSL country music roster for July is as follows. July 3. The Rip Rawers. July 10. Phoenix. July 17.

The Con Artists. July 24. Moonee Valley Drifters. July 31.

Rough Cut. Pascoe Vale RSL is at 40 Cumberland Rd, Pascoe Vale..

Enquiries: Keith , 338 7902 (after fours)

New release for Max ■ Melbourne singer Max Walker has released his brand new album of songs.

Titled The Prayers And Parables Of Kris Kristofferson, Max brings voice to 10 of the legendary Kristofferson songs that have made him one of the world's great singer songwriters.

Leaps and Bounds ■ The Leaps and Bounds Music Festival will run from July 3 -19. The City of Yarra's Music Festival is presented by PBS 106.7FM and Music Victoria.

The festival will also pay tribute to Australia's No. 1 country outlaw, A.P.Johnson (1946 - 1995) at the Rainbow Hotel Fitzroy on Saturday July 11 with a stellar line up of country music acts.

This free all-day show will feature Chris Wilson, Sarah Carroll, members of A.P. Johnson's group the Dead Livers, Kenny Joe Blake and others.

More information: www.leapsandboundsmusicfestival. com - Rob Foenander

Showbiz Briefs ■ Sunday’s episode of 60 Minutes, featuring Belle Gibson, scored more than one million viewers for the Nine Network.

■ Melbourne fine music station, 3MBS-FM, celebrates its 40th anniversary today (Wed., July 1). Its original studios were in Cotham Rd, Kew. ■ Have Jim Schembri and James Sherlock been dropped from the Denis Walter afternoon program on 3AW? Schembri was heard on 3AW’s Nightline program with Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady on Monday night this week.

■ Simon Gleeson, star of Les Miserables, will next week release his debut album, Elements.

r Observbei z Show

News from stations from around Victoria

■ 3AW newsreader David Armstrong is missing from a list of ‘Australia’s ‘Top 40 Metro Radio Newsreaders’ published by the Radio Today website.

In fact, many prominent Victorian radio news presenters are missing from the list.

The list, published late last week, includes Denis O’Kane (3AW), Ashleigh Brown (3AW), Alan Rankin (Gold FM), the late Brian White (former 3AW General Manager), Alison Drower (MMM), Carrie Bickmore (ex-Nova), Nikole Gunn (ex-Nova, ARN and Nova), Jennifer Keyte (exEON and 3XY), Gail Watson (3AW News Director), Tony Tardio, Paul Sime (3XY and 3UZ) Sydneysiders to win ranking include the late Jim Angel, Steve Blanda, Glenn Daniel, Geoff Field, Georgie Gardner, Russell Powell, Monique Dews, Sandy Aloisis, David White, Deborah Clay, Annie Webster. NahelAlavi Dalglesh, Matt D Groot, Mandi Wicks, Steve Liebmann, Helen Tzarimas, Kristy Warner, Tim Webster, Ross Symonds, Frank Avis, Sasha Highett/ Tannock, Carlie Bonavia Adelaide newsreader Anne Fulwood, who worked in radio in the 1980s, is also mentioned.

Also from South Australia is John Williams.

Rod Tiley (ex-Brisbane and Perth) was also honoured by the Radio Today list. Also from Brisbane were John Knox and Emma Blackwod, Mentions for ABC newsreaders were few: John Logan.

Katrina Blowers was also on the list, assembled by Brad March, former CEO of Austereo.

But what about some of the great Melbourne newsreaders of the past?

The 3DB come sto mind with members including Geofrey McComas, John Eden, Danny Webb, and a few familiar

On This Day Friday Wednesday Thursday July 2 July 3 July 1 ■ English actress Olivia de Havilland was born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1916.

Singer John Farnham was born in Dagenham, England, in 1949 (64).

Diana, Princess of Wales, was born in 1964. Died in 1997.

Actress Pamela Anderson is 48.

Radio Confidential

Radio’s top newsreaders

Country Crossroads Big Breakfast Show. Southern FM 88.3.

Tues. 6am-9am.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

■ Comedy writer Larry David was born in New York in 1947 (68).

Actor Grant Dodwell was born in Sydney in 1952 (63).

US fashion model Jerry Hall was born in Texas in 1956 (59).

Australian swimmer Daniel Kowalski was born in Singapore in 1975 (40).

■ Australian singer Kevin Johnson was born in Rockhampton in 1942 (73).

Judith Durham (Judith Cock) was born in Melbourne in 1943 (72).

Michael Cole, American actor and Logies star, was born in Wis-consin in 1945.

He is 70 today.

DAVID ARMSTRONG MISSING FROM THE LIST

Victorian Premier, has been made a Director of the Seven West Media group ... and we cannot help thinking that the former 3AK Director and presenter might have interests in acquiring radio stations.

Kennett joins the Kerry Stokes group, and his strong connections in Victoria, may provide a signpost to future ambitions for Seven West.

Vale Judy

■ Judy Ann Stewart (formerly Judy Ann Ford), one of the 3AK team of the 1960s, has died. She was wife of Chris (deceased), and mother of Ashley and Duncan The funeral service was held last week at St John’s Anglican Church, Toorak.

New boss

■ Amy Moon is taking over as General Manager of Mebourne’s Gay-Lesbian-Bisexual-Transgender-IntersexQueer radio station, Joy. Amy starts in the position on August 3.

Mid-dawn ● The late Geoff McComas of 3DB brilliant names that migrated to televi- technically sion: Brian Naylor, David newsreader, but he certainly was one of the most popular.

Johnston and Mal Walden.

Other Victorians to read What about John Worthy, who graced the 3UZ and 3AW radio news brilliantly included Keith Livingston, Ron microphones?

Colin Denovan, who Alderton, Brian Smith and worked at 3XY and 74 (3LO) Lawrence Costin.

Radio Confidential wonders did not get onto the Radio Toif the list compilers have heard day list.

Also missing wasArthur of the call-signs 3DB, 3UZ and Higgins (3AK, Vision), who 3AK, let alone the spent much of his career on newsreaders. television.

Sir Eric Pearce, who worked at 3DB and 3AK, as well as television, was not a ■ Jeff Kennett, the former

Jeff on board

■ Sydney radio presenter Rad Hadley doesn’t seem to have much respect for radio presenters who manage the midnight-dawn shift.

Hadley last week blasted ABC overnight presenter Rod Quinn. Hadley said Quinn could not be much good if he was only doing the graveyard shift.

Vacancy

■ Community radio station, 3RRR, is sekking to apoint a Sponsorship Co-Ordinator, on a six-month business, to work with new and existing sponsors.

Administrator Gemma Noble is fielding applications.

Melbourne

Observer

Saturday July 4 ■ American conductor and record producer Mitch Miller was born in New York in 1911. He died aged 99 in 2010.

Actress Eva Saint Marie was born in 1924 (in New Jersey.

Italian actress Gina Lollobrigida was born in 1927 (88).

She starred in Falcon Crest.

Sunday July 5 ■ Circus owner P T Barnum was born in 1810. He died aged 81 in 1891.

Australia’s first world boxing champion Jimmy Carruthers was born in Sydney in 1929. He died aged 61 in 1990.

American singer Hue Lewis was born in New York in 1950 (65)

Monday July 6 ■ American former First Lady Nancy Reagan is 92 (1921). She was born as Anne Robbins.

Bill Haley, American singer and guitarist, was born in 1925.

He died aged 55 in 1981.

The late Ruth Cracknell, actress, was born in 1975. She died aged 76 in 2002.

Tuesday July 7 ■ English actor Jon Pertwee was born in 1919. He died aged 76 in 1996. He played Dr Who for four years.

Australian country music star Reg Lindsay was born in 1929. He died aged 79 in 2008.

UK musician Ringo Starr (Richard Starkey) was born in Liverpool in 1940 (75).

Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of Jocks Journal for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates.

Jocks Journal is Australia’s longest running radio industry publication.

Find out more at www.jocksjournal.com

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

ShowBiz!

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 45

Observer Showbiz

Saturday Soirees

● Coombe Cottage ■ The recently opened personal home of Dame Nellie Melba, Coombe - The Melba Estate, is holding Saturday Soirees on July 18 and August 15, where guests will be serenaded while dining on three specifically designed courses befitting the theme.

On July 18 enjoy funky Latino folky jazz music by local band the Sin Frontera Trio, while enjoying a spicy menu by Sous Chef Nick Schwarz ... and dancing will be encouraged.

On August 15, a delicious menu of pork dishes prepared by Sous Chef Vinnie Seeger will be accompanied by a series of Puccini Arias performed by two of Australia’s up and coming opera stars.

Nestled at the gateway to the Yarra Valley in Coldstream, the estate has been transformed into an elegant restaurant, fashion and art gallery, cellar door and providore that pays homage to Madame Melba and the way of life she held dear during her decades living at the property.

When: July 18, August 15 Time: 6.30pm Cost: $80 per person for three course set menu (wine not included) Transport: Free bus pick up/drop off at Healesville and Yarra Glen Parking: onsite - Cheryl Threadgold

Cabaret Gala Shows ■ Melbourne Cabaret Festival time returned and this year’s Opening Gala showcased one of the new venues in which audiences can experience Australia’s cabaret talent: The Alex Theatre, St Kilda.

Though a less intimate space than other festival venues such as Chapel Off Chapel and Butterfly Club, the larger-than-life performances showcased this year had no trouble filling the large stage.

All-female a’capella group Ginger and Tonic, returning for another year, filled the stage in numbers being joined this time by all-male a’capella quartet Suade. The pairing is marvellous and adds more layers and interest to their already entertaining songs.

Helpmann and Green Room award winners Kanen Breen and Jacqui Dark, as Strange Bedfellows, filled the room with fantastic stage presence, a hilarious and touching performance, and glorious voices.

Their show has already played, but track this seasoned pair down in future. You’ll also need to track down drag queen Frayda Cocks, whose rendition of Rise Like A Phoenix is magnificent.

Noni McCallum filled us all with her stunning, huge, seductively dark voice that makes up for a meek, apologetic characterisation. Single in her thirties, her show explores dating and single life today saying you can hurry love.

Host Rob Mills, whose show Surprisingly Good played at The Alex last week,was stiff and lacking a little in the charisma needed for the role, but great when unscripted.

The Festival Closing Gala Showcased the other new location: the historic Melba Spiegeltent in Collingwood built in Belgium, 1910 and renamed for Melbourne and also acted as a fundraiser for next year’s event.

- Review by Deborah Marinaro

TV, Radio, Theatre Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour

Las Vegas bound ■ Female a capella vocal group The Melbourne Chorus is currently enjoying much success.

The group has not only just won Gold in the 2015 National Championship in the mid-size division, and Silver to Acappella West from WesternAustralia in the Open Division, but have received a fabulous wildcard invitation to compete in the Open Division in Las Vegas in October next year.

This is the first time Australia will have two representatives in the main competition at the Sweet Adelines International Convention and Competition.

Commencing July 15, the Melbourne Chorus is running a five-week bootcamp/membership drive every Wednesday evening at 7.15pm at the Kew East Primary School.

This will be a great chance to receive qualified vocal training to improve/achieve new vocal skills, challenges, laughs, have fun, and even possible health benefits,

● Melbourne Chorus members Annette Alakus, Lyn Harty, Noeleen Cooper (top row), Olivia Peake, Yvonne Bourke and Sandy Wingrove. whilst learning to perform 15-August 12 at 7.15pm two songs alongside the (Wed. evenings). award winning MelCost is $15 per week, bourne Chorus. plus $20 for mate Who knows? A few rials. more ladies might eveend Kew East Primary up joining the Melbourne School is in Beresford Rd. Chorus and travelling on For further details and the journey of a life-time to register, call 0431 140 to Las Vegas in 2016. 450.

The Melbourne Chowww.melbourne rus five week a cappella chorus.org.au boot-camp runs from July - Cheryl Threadgold

Talented performers ■ The Young Australian Broadway Chorus presents Disney Aladdin Jr from July 8-11 at the Union Theatre, Melbourne University.

This one-act stage adaptation of the classic animated film features a cast of some of Australia’s most talented young performers.

Enjoy magical school holiday entertainment for the whole family.

Performances: July 8, 9 at 11am and 2pm; July 10. 11 at 2pm and 7pm Venue: Union Theatre, Melbourne University, Parkville.

Tickets: $25/$20 Bookings: disney aladdin.com or 9384 1644.

- Cheryl Threadgold

● Writer and performer Sandra Fiona Long in Pancake Opus 100 at La Mama Theatre.

■ Following a developmental and highly successful presentation as part of La Mama’s 2014 Explorations season, Pancake Opus 100 is being presented until Sunday (July 5) at La Mama Theatre, Carlton.

A solo meditation on loneliness and longing, part spoken song cycle, part stand up performance, and part ‘happening’, Pancake Opus 100 is a journey of smell, sight and sound.

It explores isolation, love and the beauty which can flourish in the depths of loneliness, especially that of a single parent.

Written and performed by Sandra Fiona Long, Pancake Opus 100 is a cycle of song not sung but spoken, with bits of sound from the kitchen.

Performances: Until July 5 , Wed, Fri at 8.30pm, Thu, Sat, Sun at 6.30pm Venue: La Mama Theatre, 206 Faraday St, Carlton.

Tickets: $25 full, $15 concession Bookings: www.lamama.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Ten Minute Quickies

Stand-in

■ Dylan Lewis and Shane Lowe will fill in on Nova’s breakfast show while Meshel and Tommy take a mid-year break.

Pancake Opus 100

● Aladdin (Cody Green, 15), Genie (Jackson Harwood, 15) and Jasmine (Emily Hurst, 16) in Disney Aladdin Jr, presented by the Young Australian Broadway Chorus.

Showbiz Briefs

■ Robert Walls is joining Croc Media’s AFL Live for the remainder of the 2015 football season offering special comments. Walls has spent 14 months in France.

Walls will work alongside Rex Hunt, Peter Donegan and Liam Pickering.

■ K-Rock’s 95.5FM Geelong has announced their new breakfast line-up of Buckle and Hunter.

■ Ciaran Davies is to be Chief Executive APN News & Media Limited, owner of the Australian Radio Network, operators of Gold 104.3 and KIIS 101.1.

■ Eltham Little Theatre’s Ten Minute Quickies are back and will be presented from March 2 -5, 2016 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, Research.

Submissions open August 8 and close August 30, 2015 at midnight. Youth entries remain open until October 4.

The Ten Minute Quickies proves to be an inspiration for all writers to continue or begin writing. Anyone who did not make it as a finalist previously is encouraged to try again.

Budding playwrights are invited to submit an original play or plays for consideration, up to a maximum of five.

The entry fee for each play submitted is: Open Section 18+ $10, Youth Section (17 years and under) $5.

Eltham Little Theatre Inc. invites any budding playwright to submit an original play or plays for consideration up to a maximum of five plays. Entry fee for each play submitted is; Open section 18+ $10. Youth section (17 years and under) $5.

Actors and directors interested in participating in the event can email Paula at 10minquickie@ gmail.com to register interest (if not already on mailing list).

This competition is not open to professional actors and directors.

Prizes are: Best Play Award $1000 (decided by judging panel), People’s Choice Award $500 (voted by audiences over five performances) and Youth Playwright Award $500 (as voted by selection panel).

Please read rules and guidelines before submitting plays in August. www.elthamlittletheatre.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Page 46 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Movies, DVDs With Jim Sherlock and Aaron Rourke

What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs

● David Oyelowo gives an unforgettable performance as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the gripping Oscar winning true life drama, Selma.

FILM: SELMA: Genre: Biography/Drama.

Cast: David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo, Tom Wilkinson, Tim Roth.

Details: 2014.

Rating: M. Length: 128 Minutes.

Stars: **** Verdict: The gripping, evocative and stirring chronicle of Dr. Martin Luther King's campaign to secure equal voting rights via an epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965, which culminated in President Lyndon Johnson signing the Voting Rights Act. David Oyelowo is simply dynamic for every moment of his screen time as Martin Luther King, and veteran Tom Wilkinson gives a standout performance as President Lyndon Johnson. Exemplary on every level from an intelligent and respectful screenplay, taut direction (Ava DuVernay), tight editing and knife-edged performances, Selma is a powerful emotion charged tapestry of an unforgettable journey that is almost impossible not to be moved and inspired by their extraordinary courage and sacrifice with this groundbreaking historical event in history. Footnote: This is the first ever big screen biography on Dr. Martin Luther King and took 8 years to get to the screen.

FILM: CHAPPIE: Genre: Sci-Fi/Action/Thriller.

Cast: Sharlto Copley, Dev Patel, Hugh Jackman, Sigourney Weaver.

Details: 2015.

Rating: MA15+.

Length: 120 Minutes.

Stars: ** Verdict: In the near future crime is patrolled by a mechanized police force, and when one police droid, Chappie, is stolen and given new programming, he becomes the first robot with the ability to think and feel for himself. It's 'Short Circuit' meets 'Robocop' in this inventive but clunky action-science fiction-thriller from the director of the superior 'District 9' (Neill Blomkamp) that doesn't quite come together as a whole due to some misdirection, miscasting, weak screenplay and wooden performances. Nonetheless, this odd-romp is not a total loss, it's oddity and flaws sets it well apart from other more traditionally formulaic science fiction fare, and along with its striking urban landscapes, impressive score by Hans Zimmer and a titanium filled bucket of bolts as a hero that does raise a warm smile, it has enough energy in its dying batteries to be fun.

FILM: BIG HERO 6: Genre: Animated/Action/Adventure.

Cast: Ryan Potter, Scott Adsit, Jamie Chung.

Details: 2014.

Rating: PG. Length: 102 Minutes.

Stars: ***½ Story: Delightfully entertaining animated sci-fi action adventure of a special bond that develops between plus-sized inflatable robot Baymax and prodigy who team up with a group of friends to form a band of hightech heroes. Reminiscent of Disney's "The Incredibles" this superhero adventure is bright, brisk, fast paced and, as you would expect, brimming with superb animation. However, even though it doesn't quite know its intended audience as it jumps from light heartedness to grief to moments of extreme darkness, this and any other minor flaws pass by at a rapid rate, and the overall result is a fun, exciting and satisfying ride.

- James Sherlock

A Most Violent Year ■ (MA). 125 minutes. Available on DVD and Blu-Ray on June 25.

Lovingly crafted in the kind of way we haven't seen since that towering period of American cinema, the 1970s, A Most Violent Year is low-key, slow-burn drama that pays tribute to such film-makers as Sidney Lumet and Francis Ford Coppola.

Set in New York during 1981, the story centres on businessman Abel Morales (Oscar Isaac), who has spent the last five years turning his oil distribution company into a major success, despite ruthless competitors who are less-than-happy about seeing this newcomer stealing their profits.

Abel is married to Anna (Jessica Chastain), whose father originally owned the business that he now runs, aggressive baggage that Abel is trying to overcome and let go of.

Things begin to turn sour when Abel's trucks come under attack by unknown, armed assailants, and his company is about to face criminal prosection from the District Attorney's Office, the case headed by agent Lawrence (David Oyelowo).

Despite warnings from his longtime lawyer Andrew Walsh (Albert Brooks), Abel decides to take these dangerous groups head-on.

Everything about A Most Violent Year is stunning.

Performances are outstanding.

Isaacs, following up his excellent turn in Inside Llewyn Davis (and recently seen in the intelligent sci-fi/drama ExMachina), is even better here, carefully orchestrating his character's change as the city's corruption surfaces its ugly head.

It's a performance reminiscent of Al Pacino's in the original The Godfather.

Chastain (Zero Dark Thirty / Tree Of Life / Take Shelter / Miss Julie) is her typical reliable self as Anna, and other stand-outs include Brooks (Drive / Broadcast News) and Oyelowo (Selma).

Bradford Young's cinematography is simply gorgeous, with jaw-dropping use of blacks and golds (a definite love letter to the late, great Gordon Willis), and concrete greys, making its subject and locations fit in perfectly with the films of Sidney Lumet, especially his epic look at New York corruption, Prince Of The City (1981).

The moody music score by Alex Ebert also deliberately hones in on a very specific period style, notably that of Tangerine Dream (Thief - 1981) and Giorgio Moroder (Scarface 1983).

Writer/director Chandor defies the current trend of Hollywood film-making, where everything is all about mere colour and movement, by developing his story and characters in a slow, meticulous fashion, an approach that has seen the film meet with some divisive reactions.

However, experiencing the manner in which Chandor shows his audience how cinema can absorb and envelop, makes for a great display of directorial brilliance.

If you haven't seen Chandor's previous two films, the wonderfully existential All Is Lost with Robert Redford, and the terrific Margin Call with Kevin Spacey and Jeremy Irons, then please race out and do so.

Easily the most notable absence at

● Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain in the outstanding crime drama, A Most Violent Year. this year's Oscars, A Most Violent Year was vastly superior to most of the movies nominated, and this dazzling crime drama is one of the best films of 2015.

RATING - ****½.

Ernest and Clementine ■ (G). 80 minutes. Available Now on DVD and Blu-Ray. Based on the beloved books by Gabrielle Vincent, this deceptively simple and gorgeously animated film is an utter charmer, and should prove to be enchanting viewing for young and old over the school holiday period.

The story centres on Ernest, a big brown bear who makes a marginal existance as a street musician, and lives in a ramshackle hut on the outskirts of town; and Celestine, a young orphan mouse who is ridiculed and shunned by others because she can't understand why bears and mice, whose worlds are kept separate and closed-off, cannot live in harmony together.

When the mouse community finds out that Celestine has helped and befriended Ernest, she is labeled a criminal, so she escapes to the bear's simple abode, where the two learn true friendship and respect for one another.

What could have become a heavyhanded message movie is instead treated with genuine care and intelligence by directors Benjamin Renner, Vincent Patar, and Stephane Aubier, and screenwriter Daniel Pennac, who allow the two title characters' personalities to shine through in a distinct and lovable manner.

The themes inherent in the story then naturally surface and develop, making for a much more satisfying narrative.

Lambert Wilson provides a memorably deep voice for Ernest, and Pauline Brunner perfectly captures Celestine's innocence and quest for kindness.

Unfortunately the local release only contains the english-dubbed version, featuring the voices of Forest Whitaker, Mackenzie Foy, Lauren Bacall, Paul Giamatti and William H Macy.

The animation is superb, wonderfully recreating the pastel colours and visuals of a classic children's book, helping tap into the child within us all, and is an absolute joy on the eyes.

First-rate family entertainment.

RATING - ****.

- Aaron Rourke.

DVDs and Blu-Rays kindly supplied by Video Vision, 177-179 Carlisle Street, Balaclava. For information or bookings on these titles please call 9531 2544, or check online at videovisiondvd.com.au

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. JURASSIC WORLD. 2. MINIONS. 3. INSIDE OUT. 4. SPY. 5. ENTOURAGE. 6. MAD MAX: FURY ROAD. 7. SAN ANDREAS. 8. HOT PURSUIT. 9. WOMAN IN GOLD. 10. ALOHA. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: JUNE 25: EDEN, FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD , GLOBE ON SCREEN: ANTONY & CLEOPATRA, LOVE & MERCY, TED 2, WOMEN HE'S UNDRESSED. JULY 2: TERMINATOR: GENISYS, AMY, AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA. THE DVD AND BLU-RAY TOP RENTALS & SALES: 1. CINDERELLA (Live-Action/Family/Cate Blanchett, Lily James, Richard Madden).

2. SELMA [Drama/David Oyelowo, Tom Wilkinson].

3. JUPITER ASCENDING [Action/ Fantasy/Channing Tatum, Mila Kunis, Sean Bean].

4. PAPER PLANES [Family/Adventure/Nicholas Bakopoulos, Deborah Mailman].

5. A MOST VIOLENT YEAR [Crime/Drama/Oscar Isaac, Jessica Chastain].

6. FOCUS [Drama/Will Smith, Margot Robbie].

7. THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING [Drama/Romance/Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones].

8. BIRDMAN [Drama/Michael Keaton, Emma Stone, Edward Norton, Naomi Watts].

9. CHAPPIE [Sci-Fi/Action/Hugh Jackman, Dev Patel, Sigourney Weaver].

10. TAKEN 3 [Action/Liam Neeson, Famke Janssen, Forest Whitaker].

Also: WILD, THE INTERVIEW, THE HOMESMAN, FOXCATCHER, THE DISAPPEARANCE OF ELEANOR RIGBY, THE COBBLER, THE GAMBLER, INTERSTELLAR, THE IMITATION GAME, AMERICAN SNIPER. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE [Action/Comedy/Colin Firth, Mark Strong].

THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: Sponge Out of Water [Family/Animated].

THE LOFT [Thriller/James Marsden, Karl Urban].

NEW AND RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: HAMMER HORROR: The Brides of Dracula [1960/Horror/Peter Cushing].

HAMMER HORROR: The Curse of the Werewolf [1961/Oliver Reed].

HAMMER HORROR: The Nanny [1965/Bette Davis].

HAMMER HORROR: The Vampire Lovers [1970/Horror/Ingrid Pitt].

JEDDA [Drama/1955/Ngarla Kunoth, Robert Tudawali].

NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE [Action/Comedy/Colin Firth, Mark Strong].

Turn To Page 53

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 47

Observer Showbiz

Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

‘Time Stands Still’ at Malvern Something To Hide

● Frankston Theatre Group rehearses Something to Hide: (from left) Paul Blake (Will Purdie), Michael Redmond (Inspector Davies), Mark Moore (Howard Holt), Claire Kalab (Karen Holt), Tenee Schneider (Stella) and director, Rob Lister.

■ Frankston Theatre Group presents the classic thriller Something To Hide from July 24 - August 2 at the Mt Eliza Community Centre, Canadian Bay Rd, Mt Eliza.

Written by Leslie Sands and directed by Robert Lister, this exciting gripping tale of love and murder tells of a night of passion turning foul, and a young couple needing to cover their tracks to avoid being caught by the law.

For more than 70 years Frankston Theatre Group has continuously provided opportunities for involvement in community theatre.

Starting with a fundraising activity for the Red Cross in 1942, the group quickly developed with the enthusiastic support of the Frankston community.

A founding member of the Victorian Drama League, FTG hosted their early one act play festivals that ran for several weeks, drawing entrants from all over the metropolitan area.

The group has consistently presented three to four productions annually, including seasons of one act or short plays, providing an ideal showcase for new actors and directors.

Something To Hide will be presented in cabaret style. Bring your own refreshments.

Performances: July 24, 25, 31, August 1 at 8pm, August 2 at 2pm Venue: Mt Eliza Community Centre, Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza Tickets: $28/26, $15 (Children 10-15), $10 (Children under 10) Bookings:1300 665 377 or visit www.frankstontheatre group.org.au

● Melbourne Observer contributors Cheryl Threadgold and Julie Houghton caught up for a coffee at Coolangatta where their respective families stayed for a mid-year break.

AUDITIONS

■ Have You Seen It? Productions: First Dste, the Musical July 1 at Stageworx, Bayswater. Director: Trish Carr; Musical Director: Andrew Houston. Audition bookings: 9729 8368.

■ FAMDA: The Peppercorn Tree (by Alison Campbell Rate) July 4 at 2pm at the Foster War Memorial Arts Centre, 79 Main St., Foster. Director: Bernadette Granger. Audition bookings: 5664 9385.

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Buffalo Gal (by A.R. Gurney) July 5 at 1.30pm, July 6 at 7.30pm at 2 Albert St., Williamstown.

Director: George Werther. Audition bookings: 0402 222 090.

■ MLOC Productions: Jesus Christ Superstar Information Evening Thursday, July 2 at 8.00pm at the Parkdale Church of Christ hall, 176 Como Pde., Parkdale. Auditions: July 14, 16, 18, 19. Enquiries 9589 4912 Audition bookings: www.mloc.org.au

Melbourne

Observer THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMAAN

SHOWS ■ Malvern Theatre Company: Time Stands Still (by Donald Margulies) Until July 4 at 20a Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Bruce Cochrane. Tickets: $20 (no concessions) Bookings: 1300 131 552.

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Private Lives (by Noel Coward) Until July 4 at the Bradshaw St. Community Hall, Bradshaw St., Essendon. Director: Joshua Wolter. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 0422 029 483.

■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: A Special Occasion, Arctic Fevers and Blizzard (by Suzy Wilds, Seaton Kay-Smith and David Ives). Until July 4 at the Mechanics Institute Hall, Cnr. Yarra and Michell Sts., Warrandyte. Directors: Susan Rundle, Alan Cornell and Alastair Rice. Tickets: $25/$20. Bookings: www.trybooking ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Hotel Sorrento (by Hannie Rayson) Until July 11, Sunday matinee July 5 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd., Parkdale. Director: Deborah Fabbro.

Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9587 5141 or www.mordialloctheatre.com ■ Theatre Works (presented in association with Metro Arts): Saltwater July 1 - 12 at Theatre Works, 14 Acland St., St Kilda.

Bookings: 9534 3388.www.theatreworks.org.au ■ Renegade Productions: Letters Home (by Joe Lui) July 1 12 at Theatre Works, 14 Acland St., St Kilda. Tickets: $30/$25. www.theatreworks.org.au ■ Western Arts Theatre Inc: Rent (Book, Music and Lyrics by Jonathan Larson) July 2 - 5 at 7.30pm at Union House Theatre, University of Melbourne, Parkville. Director: Anna Marinelli; Musical Director: Stacey-Louise Camilleri. Tickets: $35/$28/ Bookings: www.trybooking.com/G2HQ ■ The 1812 Theatre: The Board Shorts 10 Minute Play Festival July 2 - 4 at The 1812 Theatre, 3 - 5 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Performances at 8.00pm Thurs, Fri and Sat, with 2pm matinee on Sat. Tickets: $15. Bookings: 9758 3964 www.1812theatre.com.au ■ Amateur Repertory Company Inc (ARC): The New Mel Brook's Musical Young Frankenstein, July 3, 4, 10, 11 at 8.00pm, July 4, 11 at 2.00pm at the Banyule Theatre. 10 Buckingham Drive, Heidelberg. Original Direction and Choreography by Susan Stroman. Tickets: Gala Opening $35 (inc. food and drink), $32/$29. Bookings: arc-theatre.com 0435 062 087., ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Time Stands Still (by Donald Margulies) July 2 - 18 at 2 Albert St., Williamstown. Director: Ellis Ebell. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: www.wlt.org.au ■ Ark Theatre: Farmer Will Swap Combine Harvestor For Wife and Down Came the Jumbuck. (by Hugh O'Brien and Ian Austin) July 3 - 11 at Lilydale Heights College Performing Arts Centre, 17 Nelson Rd., Lilydale (enter through Gate 2). Tickets: $20/ $18. Bookings: 0491 151 340 www.arktheatremelbourne.com ■ Hartwell Players: Crossed Wires July 3 - 11 at 8.00pm at the Performing Arts Centre, Ashwood College, Vannam Drive, Ashwood. Tickets: $18/$12. Bookings: hartwellplayers.org.au 9513 9581.

■ Altona City Theatre: The Producers July 3 - 18 at Altona Civic Theatre, 115 Civic Pde., Altona. Director/Choreographers: Narelle Bonnici and Samantha Heskett; Musical Director: Daniel Heskett. Tickets: $30/$25. Bookings: 0425 705550 www.altonacitytheatre.com.au .

■ People's Playhouse: Children of Eden July 3 - 10 at 7.30pm at the Cranbourne Community Centre, Brunt St., Cranbourne. Bookings: 0402 197 390.

■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The Cripple of Irishmaan (by Martin McDonagh) July 10 - 25 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna.

Director: Bruce Akers. Bookings: 9457 4117 www.htc.org.au ■ Sunshine Community Theatre: Ruben Guthrie (by Brendan Cowell) July 10, 11, 12, 16 (matinee), 17, 18 at 82 Phoenix St., Sunshine North. Director: Rachael Holt. www.sctheatre.com.au ■ Frankston Theatre Group: Something to Hide (by Leslie Sands) July 24, 25, 31, August 1 at 8.00pm and August 2 at 2.00pm at the Mt Eliza Community Centre, Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza.

Director: Robert Lister. Cabaret style. BYO drinks and nibbles.

Tickets: $28/$25/$15/$10. Bookings:1300 665 377.

■ PLOS Musical Productions: Legally Blonde July 24 - 31 at 7.30pm, July 25 and August 1 at 1.30pm at the Frankston Arts Centre, Davey St., Franksto0n. Bookings: 9784 1060 www.plos.asn.au ■ Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV): The Contrabandista and Cavalleria Rusticana July 16, 17, 18 at 8.00pm, July 18, 19 at 2.00pm at the Knox Community Arts Centre, Mountain Highway, Bayswater. Tickets: $35/$29/$17.50. Bookings: www.gilbertandsullivan.org.au ■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr. July 31 - August 16 at the Mechanics Institute, Cnr. Melbourne Rd. and Electra St., Williamstown. Tickets: $35/$31.

For performance and booking details visit www.wmtc.org.au

● Pedro Ramos (Billy) at left, Chris McLean (Jonnypateenmike), Paula McDonald (Eileen) and Rhonda Chung (Kate) rehearse The Cripple of Inishmaan.

Photo: David Belton ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents the comic tale The Cripple Of Inishmaan from July 10 -25 at 36 Turnham Ave, Rosanna.

Written by Martin McDonagh and directed by Bruce Akers, the play is set on a remote island off the west coast of Ireland in 1934.

As word arrives on Inishmaan that the Hollywood director Robert Flaherty is coming to the neighbouring island of Inishmore to film Man of Aran, the one person who wants to be in the film more than anybody else is young Cripple Billy, an unloved boy whose chief occupation has been gazing at cows and yearning for a girl who wants no part of him.

He is determined to cross the sea and audition for the American, and as news of his audacity ripples through the rumour starved community, it becomes a merciless portrayal of a world so comically cramped and mean-spirited that hope is an affront to its order.

The Cripple of Inishmaan promises to take the audience along on Cripple Billy's crazy journey of hope and discovery.

Performance Season: July 10-25, Evenings at 8pm, July 12,19 at 2pm Venue: 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna Tickets: $27/$24 Bookings: www. htc.org.au or 9457 4117

PRIVATE LIVES

● The cast of Essendon Theatre Company’s Private Lives: Leanne Savage (Amanda), Brendan Allan (Victor), Kirsten Page (Sybil) and (sitting) Zoran Babic (Elyot).

Photo: Joshua Wolter ■ Essendon Theatre Company’s current production is Noel Coward’s witty comedy Private Lives, being presented until July 4 at the Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Essendon.

Directed by Joshua Wolter, this 1930s farce in three acts tells of a divorced couple who, while honeymooning with their new spouses, discover they are staying in adjacent rooms at the same hotel.

Despite a rocky relationship, they soon realise they still have feelings for one another.

Performances: July 2, 3, 4 at 8pm Venue: Bradshaw Street Community Hall, Bradshaw St (off Buckley St.), West Essendon.

Tickets: $20/$18 Bookings: www.essendontheatrecompany.com : 0422 029 483

Page 48 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Observer Showbiz

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Local Theatre Melbourne

Observer

With Cheryl Threadgold

Red Stitch Actors Theatre presents new double bill

● Rosie Lockhart (Helen) in Dead Centre, part of the double bill at Red Stitch Actors Theatre.

ARCHE

■ Red Stitch Actors Theatre presents a double bill, including a new work specially commissioned from Australian playwright Tom Holloway titled Dead Centre, and the Australian premiere of Sea Wall by UK playwright Simon Stephens, from July 17 to August 15.

Directed by Julian Meyrick and featuring Red Stitch ensemble members Rosie Lockhart and Ben Prendergast, these companion pieces explore family, place and how we deal with things that cannot be undone.

In Dead Centre, inspired by a Fosters ad that seems to follow her on one particularly sad Tuesday, Helen (Rosie Lockhart) books a flight from the UK and heads for sunny Australia in the hope of starting again. Haunted by her past, an ex-husband and a missing father. Her search for solace is interrupted by a confronting range of emotions. Slowly she begins to face her past and attempts to move on with her future.

‘Love and Information’ at Merlyn REVIEW

● Alexander Bryce and Kristy Denovan in Melbourne Ballet Company’s Arche.

■ The Melbourne Ballet Company brings their latest masterpiece, Archè, to the Hawthorn Arts Centre on July 17 and 19.

In Greek mythology, ‘archè’ indicates the beginning; the principle from which the elements rise and the force that explains their birth and death.

Spiritually, the figure of the swan is seen as a messenger of the gods and is associated with divinity itself.

This production sees the company’s Artistic Director and Resident Choreographer, Simon Hoy, evoke the powerful symbolism and ethereal image of the swan within Greek mythology and Irish folklore.

Drawing inspiration from classics such as W.B. Yeats’ Leda and the Swan and Swan Lake’s Odette and The Dying Swan, Hoy has composed a powerful and uplifting program of contemporary ballet that is stimulated by the fundamental concept of evolution and rebirth.

Set to music by Joan Jeanrenaud, Ennio Morricone and Ludovico Finaudi, the Melbourne Ballet Company’s latest production embodies much of the emotion, line and silhouette of the swan, with the choreography giving form and emphasis to the grace contained within each gesture.

Archè will be the third Melbourne Ballet Company production the Hawthorn Arts Centre has staged, having previously presented Motion Transcend in 2014 and Lucidity in the Season One 2015 program.

Hawthorn Arts Centre is home to prestigious exhibition spaces, grand function rooms, innovative workshop spaces, and more.

Local and international artists showcase their work in a destination boasting an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional design.

The Hawthorn Arts Centre opened in October 2013 as part of a redevelopment brief ‘for a city of harmony where citizens can celebrate, share, express and experience a rich arts and cultural life.’

Performances: July 17 at 7.30pm; July 19 at 2pm Venue: Hawthorn Arts Centre, 360 Burwood Rd., Hawthorn Tickets: $40 full, $34 conc.

Bookings: www.hawthornartscentre.com.au/event/arche/ - Cheryl Threadgold

In Sea Wall. Alex (Ben Prendergast) invites us into his life and all that he cherishes. Beginning full of possibility, he speaks about his wife, having a daughter, photography and the bottom of the sea. But his contentment falls away into deep and heartbreaking grief, crumbling to pieces with a striking vividness.

Bound together but living thousands of miles apart, Dead Centre and Sea Wall explores the stories of Helen and Alex, whilst asking some of the larger questions of life in unexpected and heart-rending ways.

Performance Season: July 17 – August 15 (Previews July 14 – 16) Times: 8pm, Sun 6.30pm, Sat matinees 3pm Venue: Red Stitch Actors Theatre, Rear 2 Chapel St., St Kilda. Tickets: $20 Bookings: redstitch.net/bookings or call 9533 8083

● Zahra Newman (left) and Anita Hegh in Love and Information at the Merlyn Theatre, Malthouse.

Photo: Pia Johnson ■ Malthouse Theatre and Sydney Theatre Company have teamed with an extraordinary interpretation of Caryl Churchill’s Love and Information.

Like Churchill’s famous Top Girls, this show is composed of many characters appearing throughout a series of short scenes and vignettes.

Yet, in Love and Information, there is no connection between any except for the theme indicated by the title. They appearmere moments in time- and dissipate just as quickly.

More intriguingly, Director Kip Williams explains in his director’s notes that Churchill left unusual instructions as to how her work be used.

The seven sections of the piece must appear in order, but the scenes within them can occur in any sequence.

There are 10 extra scenes titled Depression; at least one must be used, and there are 16 titled Random, of which any number could be inserted at any point in the show but none are mandatory.

So each staging of Love and Information could be as dissimilar as new works.

Williams’s staging, along with David Fleischer’s simple yet striking set design, make for a captivating and stunning piece of theatre that is often funny and cute, and sometimes quite moving.

The minimalist set, all white with only several giant white boxes, goes through amazing transformations, the skilled actors moving the blocks around for scene changes like beautifully choreographed dances.

The cast of eight, which includes Marco Chiappi, Harry Greenwood, Glenn Hazeldine, Anita Hegh, Zahra Newman, Anthony Taufa, Alison Whyte, Ursula Yovich, skillfully navigate the hundreds of characters and situations they play. Hegh and Greenwood astound with complete transformations each time.

Whilst I didn’t personally get a sense of the show questioning our connectedness in today’s ‘ever-connected age’ as the company claims, the theme of differing types of love, at varying stages, and looked at from various aspects is strong and consistent.

Performance Season: Until July 4 Times: Wed - Fri, 7:30pm; Sat 3pm and 7:30pm; Venue: Merlyn Theatre, Malthouse, 113 Sturt St, Southbank Bookings: 9685 5111 or malthousetheatre.com.au/whats-on - Review by Deborah Marinaro

Circus Oz

● Unicycle adagio featuring Kyle Raftery and April Dawson, in Circus Oz: But Wait … There’s More.

Photo: Rob Blackburn ■ It’s opening night at Birrarung Marr and under the big top a giant, kilted man with a ferocious, red beard is doublechecking children’s tickets.

A hunched usherette gestures to no-one in particular, peering through her steel-rimmed spectacles.

Something is not quite right. And then the penny drops. Ah ha. It’s the Circus Oz performers, toying with the audience before their new show, But Wait There’s More, has even begun.

For those who have never seen Circus Oz, picture a giant, well-oiled machine where each unique part (aka performer) comes together to create a magical, irreverent, quirky and breathtaking whole.

But Wait There’s More is no exception. The teamwork in this production is a joy to behold. Under the direction of Mike Finch (outgoing Artistic Director) the performers have cocreated a show, in which they also play the instruments, amuse the masses and, oh yes, perform death-defying feats.

But Wait There’s More has something for everyone. Matt Wilson is hilarious as the mad spruiker getting his limbs sawn off. Rap artist extraordinaire, Candy Bowers, is side-splittingly funny in her muscle-man suit.

The ‘fart parade’ by Dale Woodbridge-Brown will have you chortling away in the aisles. Kids will love it and adults will too.

Circus Oz specialises in being fearlessly original while never forgetting the great tradition from whence it has come.

This is good, old-fashioned entertainment, with a twist of hip-hop, a bucketful of mayhem and couple of political statements thrown in for good measure.

Season: Until July 12 Duration: Approx. 2 hours (20 min interval) Venue: Birrarung Marr – Under The Big Top Tickets: Adult $40 - $95 / Child $25 - $95 Bookings: www.ticketmaster.com.au For performance times and further details visit www.circusoz.com - Review by Catherine McGregor

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 49

Observer Showbiz

Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

‘The Birds’ at Irene’s Warehouse Chamber Music

● From left: Paul Ghica, Anne-Marie Johnson, Merewyn Bramble, Courtenay Cleary.

■ It is a common story for Australian classical musicians to head off to big international competitions in Europe or America.

So it is rather satisfying when the tables are reversed, and Melbourne becomes the hub of an international music competition that attracts musicians from all over the world.

The 7th International Chamber Music Competition is happening in Melbourne from July 11-19, and has attracted 16 ensembles from across the globe, with entries from Europe, America and Asia.

There are two Australian entries, including Melbourne's Patronus Quartet, which is thrilled to have scored a berth in this prestigious competition.

Held every four years, this year the 2015 judges are drawn from Russia, Canada/USA, Norway, Australia, China and Australia.

The Patronus Quartet - violinists Anne-Marie Johnson and Courtenay Cleary, violist Merewyn Bramble and cellist Paul Ghica - slid into Melbourne's music world in 2014.

Patronus members hail from Melbourne, Brisbane and Chicago and are all tertiary or postgraduate alumni of schools in Victoria, New South Wales, Illinois and Indianapolis.

Individually, Patronus Quartet members hold several nationally recognised awards and scholarships for solo and chamber music.

The quartet gave its first performance in the Beethoven@4 concert series, with a successful nine show run in the Quartetthaus in the 2014 Melbourne International Arts Festival.

Anne-Marie, Courtenay, Merewyn and Paul are all musicians with the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra and play together in other small ensembles and orchestras of their home city and across Australia.

Anne-Marie and Merewyn are both members of the widely touring Australian Octet.

In past lives members have participated in the Asia-Pacific Chamber Music Competition and the Munich ARD International String Quartet Competition.

Anne-Marie and Merewyn were both educated at Mt Waverley's Huntingtower School, a relatively small school with a huge reputation for producing high profile artistic alumni, including The Great Gatsby star Elizabeth Debicki, and several classical musicians who now play in major symphony orchestras.

This International Chamber Music Competition is a key achievement for Merewyn in particular, as her two brothers Lachlan and Ewen Bramble achieved major success in this same competition several years ago, with Amir Farid, as the Benaud Trio.

The Patronus Quartet hopes to do well in the multi-stage competition, but the significance of simply being accepted into it is their major achievement.

"With the chamber music boom in Melbourne over the last decade, it is sometimes difficult to be a new group and gather supporters and be someone who is different and memorable. So being fortunate enough to perform in the upcoming competition is so amazing for us. People may remember our names, if only for a little while! We'll be able to experience the music making of firecracker chamber musicians from all over the world. This is where we really get to see what's going on and how the future looks." a proud Merewyn explained. www.chambermusicaustralia.com.au - Julie Houghton

Melbourne

Observer VICTORIAN OPERA

SHOWS

● Jaz Wickson (Julia), Angelique Malcolm (Diane) and Sam McDonald (Nat) in The Birds.

■ Spark Productions presents The Birds from July 8 – 18 at Irene’s Warehouse, Brunswick.

Based on the classic story by Daphne Du Maurier, the play

by Conor McPherson centres on the not too distant future after the fall of civilisation.

Two virtual strangers are trapped together in an abandoned farmhouse, trying to keep a tenuous grip on their sanity, as they survive wave after wave of attacks from the birds.

As supplies dwindle and paranoia rises, a young woman arrives to shake up the precarious balance they have found and it quickly becomes a secretive game of survival of the fittest.

Part cautionary tale, part claustrophobic nightmare, The Birds explores what happens to human nature under pressure.

Directed by David Ward, the immersive show seats the audience within the set, inviting the viewers into the post-apocalyptic landscape.

The show aims to break down barriers between cast and audience to heighten the impact and unease of the show, and the use of non-traditional theatre space.

The cast features Angelique Malcolm; Sam Macdonald, Jaz Wickson and Christopher Grant.

Spark Production Company is a new and dynamic theatre company, a team experimenting with the barriers between audience and performers, and are passionate about delivering an immersive event.

Performance Season: July 8 – 18. Wed to Sat Venue: Irene’s Warehouse, 5 Pitt St., Brunswick.

Tickets: $30 full/$25 concession.

Bookings: www.trybooking.com.au/HXCG For more information about the show and a tour behind the scenes. visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aaYFieK3hk

ABBOTSFORD CONVENT

● Harpist Marshall McGuire will perform at the Abbotsford Convent on September 6.

● Jessica Pratt ■ Victorian Opera audiences last year had the thrill of seeing expatriate Australian soprano Jessica Pratt give a fine performance as Violetta in La Traviata.

Victorian Opera obviously agreed with the audience, as they have brought Jessica Pratt back to sing in one performance of Bellini’s I Puritani at Hamer Hall on Thursday July 2.

Jessica is following in the footsteps of another great Australian soprano, Dame Joan Sutherland, and had been dubbed the Queen of Bel Canto for her expertise in this style of opera.

Jessica sang the role in Florence last year, and the critics went wild, with Firenze Post saying that she “was applauded repeatedly, including in the middle of her scenes, her voice luminous, robust and of impeccable technique”. High praise for an Aussie girl starting to shine on the world stages.

Playing opposite Jessica’s Elvira, is Spanish tenor Celso Abelo, who has also been lauded overseas for his performance in the role of Lord Arturo Talbot.

This was Bellini’s last opera, following his earlier successes of La Sonnambula and I Capuleti e i Montecchi. It is set in the 17th century, telling the story of the English civil war between the Royalists who ere faithful to the monarchy and the 'divine right of kings’ and the Puritans who supported the dominance of the parliament, and of course there is a love story involved.

This demanding opera also has an excellent cast of local singers, including Nathan Lay, Paul Whelan, Jeremy Kleeman, Carlos E. Barcenas and Tania Ferris. It is conducted by Victorian Opera’s artistic director, Richard Mills. www.victorianopera.com.au - Julie Houghton

MUSIC IN THE ROUND ■ Following on from the success of last year’s program which marked the Convent’s 10th anniversary, Music in the Round returns to the Abbotsford Convent this Father’s Day, September 6.

Presented by the Abbotsford Convent Foundation, the event will see 15 of Australia’s most renowned chamber musicians playing intimate shows in the Convent’s historic venues; including the award-winning Good Shepherd Chapel, the beautifully restored Oratory and the seldom-seen black and white tiled Mural Hall.

This year, Australian harpist Marshall McGuire returns with a program combining the modern and Baroque composers.

Organist/composer Calvin Bowman also makes a return, performing a series of contemporary Australian works alongside those by JS Bach.

Paul Dean joins pianist Stephen Emmerson for a program of rare works from the 20th century. Australian violinist William Hennessy and pianist Louisa Breen will present a program of Mozart and Brahms, and Ensemble Liaison will perform tango-inspired Argentinian composer Piazzolla.

For piano lovers, Daniel de Borah and rising talent Tristan Lee will perform keyboard solo recitals featuring works by Prokofiev, Beethoven and Liszt.

In the intimate Mural Hall, audiences will be treated to serene string performances, featuring musicians Kristian Winther, Ioana Tache and Daniel Curro, performing a program of string duos and trios followed solo cello works by Christopher Howlett. A series of talks will complement the music program with a special lecture by celebrated cellist Howard Penny.

There will also be free jazz in the Heritage gardens throughout the day and free children’s concerts with Patma Music, making it a fun-filled day for all ages.

Music in the Round was the Australian Musicians' Guild annual showcase for Australian chamber musicians and began in 1972.

When: Sunday September 6, 11am – 5.30pm Where: Good Shepherd Chapel, Oratory and Mural Hall Abbotsford Convent?

Tickets: Full $85 / Conc $65 Bookings: www.melbournerecital.com.au/ musicintheround or call 9699 3333 For more information: abbotsfordconvent.com.au/whatson/events-exhibitions/music-in-the-round-2015 - Cheryl Threadgold

Page 50 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 Melbourne

Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 1

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au y y g

Across

Across

Down

1. Pony competition 6. Meddler 11. Large NZ city 15. Drinking glasses 20. Moose 21. Drizzles 22. Married title 23. Nudism 24. Armed conflict within nation (5,3) 25. Family favouritism 27. Segregated 28. Roman robe 29. Hungry 31. Slightly open 32. Skin eruptions 36. Staining 37. Room 38. Painter of The Queen's latest portrait, Rolf ...

41. Length unit 44. Hair dye 45. Touchy 48. Metal extraction plant 49. Cupboard 52. Banked (on) 56. Gets 57. Form of prayer 58. Futile 61. More affluent 62. Bring honour to 63. Gladden, ... up 64. Japan's capital 65. Shillyshallies 66. Greed 67. Withdraws from position (5,4) 71. Fertile desert spot 73. TV personality, ... McGuire 75. Aid financially 80. Pistols 82. Intervening time 83. Jog 85. Definitions 86. Old Spanish money unit 88. Split in church 90. Slays (5,3) 91. Biting insects 93. Wise biblical king 94. Tossing 95. Fragile & airy 96. Suit-makers 97. Jot 99. Charlotte Bronte novel, Jane ...

100. Concludes 104. Of kidneys 105. Taco sauce 106. Sing monotonously 107. Revolved 111. Deserve 113. Fah, soh, ...

114. Inflatable vest, ... west 115. Serving platters 117. Irrational fear 118. Kitchen strainer 121. Saturate (with colour) 122. The Hunchback Of ... Dame 125. Harpoon hunter 126. Formerly Persia 127. Garden of Creation 129. In place, in ...

131. Actress, ... Thompson 132. Stellar 135. Kuwaiti ruler 136. Eternal 139. Siamese 140. Up-to-date 144. Physicist, ... Newton

145. Excel 146. Castle water barriers 147. Elaborately 148. Cattle-farmers 149. Mad (dog) 150. Tied (shoes) 152. Surprise victory 154. Labelled 157. Chinese gooseberry, ... fruit 158. Of the side 162. Grieg opera, Peer ...

163. SOS 166. Wig material 167. Speaks 169. Kind 171. Door frame post 172. Resistant to disease 173. Start (of ailment) 175. Primp 176. Encouraged 179. Tutsi country 180. Ranted 182. Hawaiian garland 183. Belonging to us 184. Spindly 186. Took in (child) 189. Last Greek letter 190. Wallabies or Springboks sport 191. Synagogue scholar 192. Stimulating 196. Disable 197. Canadian province, ... Scotia 198. Kenya's capital 199. Exhilarating 201. Caught 202. Ridicule 203. Departing 204. Fibre-spinning rods 205. Writer, ... Hemingway 208. Journalist's credit (2-4) 210. Cheap ship fare 211. Fertiliser ingredient 212. Redder 213. Bobs head 215. Firebugs 219. Signalling flame 221. Cruel men 223. Searches out scandal 227. From Brussels 228. Mummifies (corpse) 230. Judge's hammer 231. Democratic Republic of Congo 232. Threatened 233. Slip by 234. Gist 238. Tennis ace, ... Edberg 239. Indianapolis state 240. Splatter 243. Arrival 246. Annulled 247. Dressy 250. Woodwind instruments 251. Fools 253. Paltry 256. Helicopter's landing place 257. More hefty 258. Grills 262. Labyrinth 263. Reverie 266. Honey liquor 268. Peacemaker 269. Central Asian republic 270. Lovely women 271. Miniature toy, ... car 272. Banned pesticide (1,1,1) 273. Downy duck 274. Naval exercises 275. Makes stable 276. Perceived wrongly 277. Aerobics outfits 278. Abbreviates

1. Doomed person 2. Legends 3. Equine 4. Cosy home 5. Nearly 7. A few 8. Persecutes 9. Checkers game 10. Thread 11. Henry VIII's ... Boleyn 12. Second-hand vehicles (4,4) 13. Smart aleck (4-3) 14. Friendly 15. Tests 16. Former Soviet region (1,1,1,1) 17. Lightweight timber 18. Go in 19. Mixer drinks 24. Appeared 26. Trading centre 30. Last-minute 33. Pungent cleaning fluid 34. Small hill 35. Sniffed 38. Cross-breeds 39. Made contact with 40. Takes no notice of 42. Canadian lake 43. Bringing up 46. Stud (with jewels) 47. Conformed, ... the line 49. Hurricane 50. Follows orders 51. Europe/Asia 53. Regards highly 54. Riled 55. Aussie sheep herders 59. Very demanding 60. Settle overseas 67. Bewildered 68. Moved on hands & knees 69. Of earthquakes 70. Run (event) 72. Aplomb 74. Travelling worker 76. Gusty 77. Leave impression 78. Smooth over (4,3) 79. Gushed 81. Brash newcomers 84. Egg dish 87. Dried with cloth 89. Moon shape 91. Grinding (teeth) 92. British royal court, ... Palace (2,5'1) 98. Worldwide 101. Group value system 102. Shade of brown 103. Sends via Internet 108. Alleged assassin, Lee Harvey ...

109. Stop! (nautical) 110. Odds or ...

112. Emerging again from sleep 116. Protective shielding (6,5) 119. Act of dunking 120. Say 123. Canoe with attached float 124. Set out differently 128. Enthusiastically 130. From Tel Aviv 132. Allow inside 133. Banjo sound 134. Gangway 137. Cleopatra's land

Down 138. Famous Swiss mountain 141. Main artery 142. Flowed away 143. Yesterday, ..., tomorrow 151. Cling (to) 153. Early fetus 155. Directed 156. Surly person 159. Hoping (to) 160. Vitality 161. Irritating 164. 365-day periods 165. Cosmetics boss, Elizabeth ...

168. Legendary Atlantic continent 170. Money 173. Car distance clock 174. Mideast waterway (4,5) 177. Raincoat fabric 178. Gradually diminished 181. Devotees 185. Thrilling 186. Loss of memory 187. Beginnings 188. Trampled 193. Obscure 194. Sports injury remedy (3,4) 195. Hot springs 200. Venetian boats 201. Conceive of 206. Havens 207. Increases threefold 208. Sun-tanned 209. Most inquisitive 211. Coup organiser 214. Cigarette users 216. Affair of the heart 217. Giving green light to 218. Huge 220. Blacksmith's block 222. German wine, ... Riesling 224. Most avid 225. US cotton state 226. Giant Himalayan peak 229. Criticise harshly 232. Lion's neck hair 235. Poorer quality 236. Wear down 237. Soft goat wool 241. Fence planks 242. Authorise 244. Bridge over gorge 245. Louder 248. Trophies 249. Those ones 251. Weaponry 252. Bogs 253. Office circulars 254. Grand Slam winner, ... Agassi 255. Writer, ... Dahl 259. Happen 260. Prized fur 261. Genders 262. Method 264. Sudden attack 265. Son of Adam & Eve 267. Sprint Solution - Page 30

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 51

Solution on Page 42

MEGA

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Page 52 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 Melbourne

Observer

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Sport Extra

Sweet It Is tests positive ■ Another week, another drugs drama for greyhound racing.

A urine sample from top Victorian dog Sweet It Is has tested positive to caffeine, after the dog won the Heat and Final of the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Collar in Auckland.

In the Heat, Sweet It Is stunned racegoers with a 16-length win which earned wide praise on both sides of the Tasman.

Sweet It Is ranks as the highest prizemoney winning greyhound in Australian history, but her illustrious career could come undone after samples taken by the New Zealand Racing Integrity Unit tested positive to caffeine, a banned drug.

Under New Zealand penalties, caffeine is rated a category four prohibited substance - trainer Braden Finn could face disqualification of up to six months and/or a fine of $5000.

Racing Integrity Unit Manager Mike Godber said this was the first case of caffeine found in a greyhound in New Zealand in two years.

Godber said that Finn had been "very surprised" when made aware of the positive sample by the Unit.

Finn took over the training of Sweet It Is after former trainer, Darren McDonald, was caught up in the live baiting scandal.

Greyhound Racing New Zealand Chairman John McArthur has been quoted as saying he feels his country’ss drug testing regime is far superior to that in Australia - he believes the figure of six or seven dogs swabbed per race meeting in New Zealand is much higher than here.

Everything from accidental contamination by drug using kennel work-

Greyhounds

with Kyle Galley ers to contamination in poppy seed bread and even chocolate cake has been used by trainers to beat, or attempt to beat, drugs charges over the years.

Life ban

■ Veteran greyhound trainer Tony Mills has become the second person registered in Victoria to receive a life ban for his involvement in the live baiting saga.

Mills received his penalty from the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board last week after being charged at a hearing held on Thursday, June 4.

The RADB chose to defer its judgement until last Wednesday, when it announced its penalty.

In determining the penalty, the RADB stated “there can be no place in the industry for persons – particularly of Anthony Mills’ background and repute – who actively participate in this vile practice.”

Irishman Chris Connolly earlier this month was the first to receive a life ban from live baiting at the Tooradin Trial Track.

Sykes out ■ The Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board has banned a further trainer for their role in live baiting at the Tooradin Trial Track.

Eric Sykes has been disqualified for 10 years (five years suspended pending no further breaches of rules relating to live baiting or animal welfare).

Sykes was charged by Greyhound Racing Victoria Stewards for exciting a greyhound with a live rabbit.

Stewards argued for a substantial period of disqualification.

The penalty stands from February 19, 2015, and the RADB stated regard was given to Sykes' early guilty plea, references, unblemished industry involvement and genuine remorse.

Spotlight ■ Bendigo takes the spotlight in Victorian greyhound racing this week.

Heats of the Southern Cross Ten Bendigo Cup (425 metres) were held recently with the Final set for this Friday night, July 3.

Winner of the Cup this year pockets $47,000 in stakes.

Among the support highlights being staged across the Cup carnival are the $10,000 to the winner Winter Cup over 660 metres, a Grade 5 series for dogs eligible for the GOBIS bonus scheme, and a bonus event for greyhounds sold through the Ready2race series.

Patrons attending the Cup night program can take advantage of a special dining package, on sale through the club.

● Braden Finn and Darren McDonald with Sweet It Is

For charity ■ Speaking of Bendigo, the club recently staged a very successful charity night, raising money for Give Me 5 For Kids.

Ticket numbers were limited to 120 - and they sold out within 48 hours of the club's first media advertisement.

The night raised $3000 for the children's ward at the local hospital, and kicked off a month of fundraising

by Bendigo radio station 3BO. The event was so successful, that Bendigo Greyhound Racing Association Manager, Troy Harley, indicated that a second "ladies night" will be planned for later in the year.

"Girls Night Out has become a much anticipated social event in a short period of time in Bendigo and the Club is grateful for the support of everyone who has made the promotion possible and supported the event," Harley said.

For the month of June the Bendigo club will donate $55 for every number 5 runner that wins a race at the track.

They also donated the gate takings

from their recent June 13 race meeting, and will host a Gala Auction this Saturday night, with monies raise from these various activities also benefitting Give Me 5 For Kids.

"The BGRA has been supporting Give Me 5 For Kids for four years now and are proud to be able to contribute to such a wonderful cause," Harley said.

Upcoming race meetings

■ Wednesday: The Meadows (Day), Bendigo (Twilight), Cranbourne (Night), Ballarat (N); Thursday: Warragul (D), Shepparton (T), Sandown Park (N), Warrnambool (N); Friday: Sale (D), Geelong (T), Bendigo (N), Saturday: Shepparton (T), The Meadows (N); Sunday: Sandown Park (D), Healesville (D), Sale (T); Monday: Ballarat (D), Warragul (T), Shepparton (N); Tuesday: Horsham (T), Geelong (N), Warragul (N).

- Kyle Galley

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 53

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

They’re racing in Japan

■ We recently told you all about the Melbourne Cup trophy journeying the entire globe.

Now we have been to Japan, to show the Japanese people what they are missing by not attending the time honoured event.

The iconic trophy gained a few new admirers among Japanese folk including Sumo wrestlers, geisha girls, and Harajuku girls as it toured the land of the rising sun.

Hosted by VRC Director, Neil Wilson, the club held a trackside event at the Tokyo Racecourse attended by tourism and racing officials, diplomats, and leading horse owners and breeders, including Yatsumi Yoshida and his brother, Teruya for the running of the inaugural Victoria Racing Club Trophy.

The 18 carat solid Gold Cup continued its Japanese tour at Yoshida's impressive Northern Farm in Hokkaido, taking in trackwork , inspecting foals and visiting 2006 Emirates Melbourne Cup winner, and current day showjumper, Delta Blues.

The 15 year-old gelding, who scored a memorable win over compatriot, Pop Rock, posed for photos with the 2015 Emirates Melbourne Cup Trophy.

The tour of the expansive property, included visits to Crown Oaks and Australian Guineas winner, Mosheen and Caulfield Cup winner, Southern Speed, now both broodmares in Japan.

The group also visited the Yoshida Family owned Shadai Stallion Station, the home of rising star stallions, Deep Impact, Orfevre, Lord Kanaloa and Heart's Cry- the latter the sire of the 2015 Melbourne Cup hopeful, Fame Game.

The 33 Australian and New Zealand destinations were unveiled recently, with the tour to begin on July 9..

Ted Ryan

● Joe Janiak and Takeover Target Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754

I had the pleasure of meeting him many moons ago when I was with Channel Nine, and he is not only one of the best commentators in the game, but one of the best blokes going around.

After he hung up his 10x 50's, he devoted many years of his life to harness racing, where he excelled as a trainer-driver.

John filed his final show in the "Gig in the Sky" on Sky Channel recently.

He commenced his star-studded career on Sydney radio station, 2GB. Overall, Tapp called something like 50,000 races that ended in 1998.

He will be the special guest at the Victorian Racing MediaAssociation luncheon at the Emerald Hotel on Monday July 13 , a day I will be looking forward to immensely, as I class him up there with the best.

Remember the greats? Names like Bert Bryant, Bill Collins, Joe Brown, Frank O'Brien, and another legend Ken Howard.

There is a top caller in Western Australia, Darren McAullay; Tapp all over.

Have a listen I am sure you will agree.

Memories

■ It was a sad moment for all horse lovers with the death of one of most colourful racehorses to go around.

That horse was Takeover Target, who unfortunately had to be put down after an accident in his paddock.

Takeover Target took the world by storm, being by Celtic Swing from Shady Stream, from an unlikely looking galloper, he went onto to win at least eight Group One Races including Japan, England, and Singapore.

Legend

■ One of Australia's greatest ever race callers, John Tapp, has decided to all it a day after 50 years in the racing industry.

● John Tapp

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 46

Top 10 Lists

THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: Sponge Out of Water [Family/Animated].

THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: Sponge Out of Water Blu-Ray + 3D [Family/Animated].

THE LOFT [Thriller/James Marsden, Karl Urban].

HAMMER HORROR: The Brides of Dracula [1960/Horror/Peter Cushing].

HAMMER HORROR: The Curse of the Werewolf [1961/Oliver Reed].

HAMMER HORROR: The Nanny [1965/Bette Davis].

HAMMER HORROR: The Vampire Lovers [1970/Horror/Ingrid Pitt].

JEDDA [Drama/1955/Ngarla Kunoth, Robert Tudawali].

THE WHO: LIVE AT SHEA STADIUM. ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK: Seasons 1-2.

NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: MOB WIVES: Big Ang. MOB WIVES: Season 4 - New Blood.

BONDI VET: Season 3.

BONDI VET: Season 4.

WOULD I LIE TO YOU: Volume 1.

WOULD I LIE TO YOU: Volume 2.

MISS FISHER'S MURDER MYSTERIES: Season 3 - Part 2.

TATTOO TALES. STUDIO 9 [Graham Kennedy, Bert Newton, Don Lane, Paul Hogan].

COAST: Season 9.

RUNNING WILS with BEAR GRYLLS. THE WHO: LIVE AT SHEA STADIUM. ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK: Seasons 1-2.

- James Sherlock

Absent friends

In most of his wins he was piloted by Jay Ford, and from 41 starts won 21 of them for a total of $6,019.400 in earnings.

He was bought and trained by a gentleman by the name of Joe Janiak.

The story that sticks in my mind was back in 2004, and I was doing my regular racing gig at the Newmarket Tavern at Flemington.

On the night I do tips, a Phantom Call of the big race the next day, and generally have a chats with patrons.

I looked across the room as this greyhaired gentleman "Do you know what you are talking about?", he said in a humorous way.

He added: “I noticed that you tipped my horse Takeover Target, a place chance in the Salinger Stakes at Flemington tomorrow.”

I conducted an interview with Joe, where patrons were enjoying a bet and a beer at the New-market, when he declared the "Target", 14-1.

He told everybody there that night to say hello to him in the mounting yard before the race, which they did.

● Mosheen Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 Each year after No wonder he that Joe would stay at booted home the first the Quest Apartments winner at Echuca on near Flemington and the same day. walk over and have a Don't worry we will counter tea with his even-up at the next friends.

Since then we have Mass when the plate become very good comes around.

At the religious day friends, although I we always have a haven't seen him for guest speaker, genersome time.

They all got on at ally a man of the Cloth.

This time was Fathe big odds of 14-1. ther Des Fitzgerald, who gave two good talks on ways of life in ■ Once again I had the Catholic life. the pleasure of attendVice-Chairman of ing the 58th day of the Melbourne RacReflection for us ing Club, Peter Le Catholics at the beau- Grand, along with tiful St Leonards Church in Glen former race caller, Waverley, the home of Brian Markovic, were Racing Chaplain, Fa- in attendance along ther Brendan Dillon. with well-known The annual gather- former bookies, Eric ing of the racing fra- Tymms, and Bill ternity is, in racing Dooley, who has just parlance an opportu- turned 92. nity to take a spell and Since our last Reassess what our pro- flection day, we have gram for the new sea- lost a number of memson will be. bers.

Although small in Some of those innumbers those who cluded jockey, Les gathered enjoyed a Coles, who won the great day.

A couple of jockeys Cups double on Even former top hoop, Bob Stevens in 1962, the Skelton, who rode top Victorian rider, Van Der Hum to vic- Kevin Mitchell, New tory in the 1976 South Wales young Melbourne Cup was rider, Nathan Berry, in New Zealand and veteran jockey, Alan another leading rider, McLean, and harness Darren Gauci, racing driver, Don couldn't make it along Dove. with his Father Bill.

- Ted Ryan

Light

■ At the Reflections meeting (see column at left), we remembered that a few leading trainers have left us including Stuart Rawiller, Bob Hoysted, Peter Simonds, Jack Mc Greal, Ross Mc Donald and Ross Gawley.

There was also race callers Wayne Wilson and Bert Day, and former Herald Sun Editor, Harry Gordon.

There is also Clarrie Bennetts ex VRC; and more recently" P’eeping Pete", Vic Beitzel.

Our sympathies to their families.

- Ted Ryan

Sulky Snippets

■ Four year old Chief Marty/Quintessa Bromac gelding Our Supreme Guy gave veteran Glenburnie (Mt Gambier) trainer Ken Dihm a happy birthday present when successful in the Cooinda Work Crew Pace for C1 class over 2180 metres at Terang.

Driven by local Glen Craven, Our Supreme Guy showed blistering speed from gate five to lead easily as the mobile moved away, before surrendering to the polemarker Nobetterthanthis which moved off his back to assume control.

Using the sprint lane, Our Supreme Guy raced clear over the concluding stages to register a 2.3 metre victory over Nobetterthanthis and Top Trio which followed the pair. The mile rate 2-02.

It was Our Supreme Guy's 5th victory in 39 outings.

Ken Dihm had enormous success in the nineties with a fabulous mare by the name of Helens Pleasure who won 32 races including several at Moonee Valley and Globe Derby Park.

■ Monday harness racing was conducted at Cobram on June 22 and Congupna trainer David Bartley pulled off a decent plunge in the Betta Electrical Pace for C0 class over 1670 metres when 4-Y-0 Metropolitan/Excite gelding Airbournemagic greeted the judge.

Given a lovely trip from the pole by Mark Pitt with Nathan Jack setting a sizzling speed from outside the front line aboard Keith Cotchin's Tooram Lad, Airbournemagic backed on fixed odds from as much a 50/1 to run at $5.90 on Supertab's parimutual market, joined the leader on the home turn to score by a nose from Smiling Spirit (three back the markers) and Tooram Lad in a mile rate of 1-55.8.

Page 54 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

Comment ■ With the blackout of all Victorian gallops on Sky Channel over the past few weeks, one would have thought that the Victorian daytime trots would have been given extra cover - unfortunately this is not so.

In actual fact the coverage has been appalling of late with no lead in and only last minute crosses to the track just prior to the race getting under way.

Sky are treating trot punters with no respect whatsoever, apart from what's mentioned above, there have been numerous occasions when no final dividends have been shown with a distinct bias towards the NSW gallops.

Trots maybe in for a torrid time with the Seven network taking over the (Victorian) gallops from late August.

Will died in the wool punters be happy to switch from gallops to trots etc. all through the day or night - if not, turnover is likely to drop drastically on harness racing which will have a great effect on the sport.

On the other hand, if punters are watching the gallops (Australia wide) on Sky with the exception of Victoria, could this have a detrimental effect on the galloping scene.

Interesting times are ahead !

Peeled six wide ■ Junortoun part-owner/trainer/driver Trevor Hilson would have been "over the moon" when his 4-Y-0 Courage Under Fire/Xanadu Rock mare Olivia Rockstar greeted the judge in the Elders Real Estate Pace for C1 class over 1650 metres at Bendigo on Wednesday.

Buried five back along the markers after starting from gate three on the second line, Olivia Rockstar peeled five and six wide on the final bend off a three wide trail to score by a half head over Illawong Lively along the sprint lane after trailing the leader Thankbonnie, with Another Fireball a head away third from mid-field in the running line. The mile rate 1-56.8.

10.4 metres lead ■ Strathfieldsaye's Julie Douglas combined with Bolinda's Josh Duggan to land the World's Best Hoof Oil Pace Final for C1 class over 2150 metres with Live Or Die/La Rube 4-Y-0 gelding Our Leo, prevailing by 10.4 metres from Realy Under Fire and Life Long Voyage in an all Bendigo trifecta. The mile rate 1-59.2.

Rivals destroyed ■ Ardmona duo Amanda Turnbull and Nathan Jack produced a smart Tintin In Amerixca/Zwish gelding by the name of Zee Dana to destroy his rivals on debut in the Bendigo Party Hire 2-Y-0 Pace over 1650 metres, leading all of the way from gate two in winning untouched by 27.7 metres from Pin Code and Sondel in a rate of 1-57.3.

Terang Cup victory ■ Dunnstown brothers John and David Murphy snared the Terang Co-Op Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2180 metres at Terang trots on Tuesday June 23 with honest 5-Y-0 Armbro Variable/Irish Tess gelding Tommy Kay in a mile rate of 2-08.2.

Coming from 10 metres, Tommy Kay was sent forward by David to park in the open with The Night Wind leading from barrier two.

Gaining cover when Bee Arr Dee dashed to face the breeze at the bell from mid-field, Tommy Kay Joined Bee Arr Dee on the home turn and finished best to register a 13 metre victory (his third) over Veegee Bentley (four back the markers), with Bee Arr Dee holding down third.

Harness Review ■ Listen to Len Baker on Harness Review, 8pm10pm Mondays, on 97.9 FM, streamed in 979fm.com.au

Bellman’s big night at Terang ■ Ararat freelance reinsman Michael Bellman took the honours for the night at Terang on Tuesday June 23 with a driving treble - Babalaas Jack in the Noir Rover 3Y-0 Pace over 1680 metres, Four Starzzz Fella in the Welcome Computers Pace for C1 class over the same journey and Sheza Party Doll in the Phonse Hickey Memorial Pace for C0 class over 2180 metres.

Babalaas Jack a fully American bred Somebeachsomwhere/Western Tingira colt bred and raced

by David Carpenter and trained at Great Western

by Michelle Wight, spent most of the race at the tail of the field after starting from the extreme draw.

Despite being five wide on the final bend, Babalaas Jack was too strong at the finish for a most unlucky Mister Chomp which was all set to win approaching the final bend only to go off stride before getting going again in the straight to fail by a head in 2-00.1.

Cheersbigears finished third after trailing the weakening leader Aurelius.

Five year old Four Starzzz Shark/Clarenden Diva gelding Four Starzzz Fella trained at Heywood

by Kevin Brough coming off a victory at Mildura on June 12, was given an easy time three back in the moving lane after also starting from the extreme draw.

Moving forward three wide uncovered in the final circuit, Four Starzzz Fella outstayed his rivals to score by 6.7 metres in advance of a death-seating Smoken Fields, with the pacemaker Emma Jade third. The mile rate 1-59.9.

Michael Bellman was to finish the night on a high note after Holmes Hanover/Divine Lustre 5Y-0 gelding Our Bold Lustre landed the Murfett & Whiting Pace for C1 class over 2180 metres, as he trains the winner.

Using a concession for Denbeigh Wade, Our Bold Lustre began with a rush from outside the front line, but was unable to head off the speedy Jilliby Diablo (gate four).

Taking cover on Our Uptown Girl mid-race, Our Bold Lustre switched down to the sprint lane on straightening to score by 1.9 metres over Jilliby Diablo in 2-02.2, with Destined To Take (three wide last lap from last) third.

Switch ■ Sheza Party Doll a 4Y-0 mare by Dream Away from Lombo Party Doll trained by Bec East at the Brough property in

Baker’s Delight

Harness Racing

This Week’s Meetings ■ Wednesday - Horsham/Shepparton, Thursday Maryborough/Ballarat, Friday - Melton, Saturday Melton, Sunday - Ouyen @ Mildura, Monday - Yarra Valley, Tuesday - Kilmore.

Horses To Follow Melbourne

Observer

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Heywood, came from near last at the bell after starting from gate three on the second line to defeat Mister Untouchable which raced parked from the bell by 2.2 metres in 2-01.9. Dayraid (one/one at bell) finished third after switching down to trail the weakening pacemaker and odds-on favourite Jilliby Passion in the last lap.

Greeting ■ Bec East landed a training double at the Terang meeting, when Rocknroll Hanover/Best Of Wine gelding Dancin With Elvis greeted the judge in the Talisman Floats 3-Y-0 Pace over 1680 metres with Jayson Finnis in the sulky.

Starting from gate two, Dancin With Elvis angled away from four back the markers to be one/one for the last lap, before running home strongly to account for Esspee Rockstar (gate three) which galloped away before circling the field to lead at the bell.

Turbo Elly finished third after easing to face the breeze from three back the markers in the last lap.

The mile rate 2-01.7.

Too tough ■ Ardmona owner/ trainer/driver Donna Castles has 5-Y-0 Lombo Mandingo/Estrelita mare Tennaya going great guns at present and landed the De Maria Mitsubishi Pace for C1 class over 2170 metres at Cobram with her in 1-59.8.

Despite racing in the open from gate five, Tennaya was too tough at the finish for Alcolism (one/one) and Sailors Sweetheart (three back the markers) which flashed home late.

Snare ■ Dunnstown brothers John and David Murphy snared the Terang Co-Op Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2180

metres at Terang trots on Tuesday June 23 with honest 5-Y-0 Armbro Variable/Irish Tess gelding Tommy Kay in a mile rate of 2-08.2.

Coming from 10 metres, Tommy Kay was sent forward by David to park in the open with The Night Wind leading from barrier two.

Gaining cover when Bee Arr Dee dashed to face the breeze at the bell from mid-field, Tommy Kay Joined Bee Arr Dee on the home turn and finished best to register a 13 metre victory (his third) over Veegee Bentley (four back the markers), with Bee Arr Dee holding down third.ing the next line.

Dictated ■ Long Forest duo Andy and Kate Gath's Kiwi bred Bettor's Delight/We Love To Party 4-Y-0 gelding Party Boy led throughout from the pole to land the Dick & Anne Box Pace for C4 to C5 class over 2180 metres at Terang Allowed to dictate terms to suit without any challengers, Party Boy was untroubled to win by 7.9 metres from No Bettertime along the sprint lane from three back the markers, with Keayang Storm third after trailing the winner. The mile rate 2-01.1.

Speedy ■ Bolinda trainer/driver Chris Alford's in-form 4Y-0 Yankee Spider/Apollo Ann mare Celtic Rose brought up her 5th victory in 16 outings, when successful in the Dr. Luke Ellis Trotters Mobile for T2 to T4 class over 2200 metres at Bray Raceway, Ballarat on Thursday June 25.

Beginning speedily from gate three, Celtic Rose led throughout to score by a head only from Savannah Jay Jay off a three wide trail from five back in the moving line.The mile rate 2-03.9.

■ Almihata, Mister Untouchable, Law Legend, Senitas Success, Majestic Grace, Citysneak, The Truth, Sheza Amazon, Watch My Sox, Rate Highly, Mister Chomp.

Led from the pole ■ Long Forest duo Andy and Kate Gath's Kiwi bred Bettor's Delight/We Love To Party 4-Y-0 gelding Party Boy led throughout from the pole to land the Dick & Anne Box Pace for C4 to C5 class over 2180 metres at Terang Allowed to dictate terms to suit without any challengers, Party Boy was untroubled to win by 7.9 metres from No Bettertime along the sprint lane from three back the markers, with Keayang Storm third after trailing the winner. The mile rate 2-01.1.

Settled at the tail

■ At Lord's Raceway Bendigo on Wednesday, Rockbank trainer Frank Offer's lightly raced Sundon/ Littlewhitelies 5-Y-0 gelding Uetliberg scored in the Alderbaran Park Trotters Handicap for T0 & T1 class over 2150 metres, much to the delight of owner Jenny Offer.

Driven by Rod Petroff, Uetliberg settled at the tail of the field after starting outside the 10 metre mark, before gaining a lovely ride home in the last lap on the back of both Majestic Flash and Our Elvis.

Taken wide on turning, Uetliberg finished full of running to register a 4 metre victory over Speedy Rambo from mid-field and a death-seating Watch My Sox in 2-06.5.

Off 30 metres

■ Kerryn Manning's Kiwi import Blue Sky Commander snared his first Australian victory in three outings, by streeting his rivals in the Angove Wines 3-Y-0 Trotters Handicap over 2100 metres at Geelong on Wednesday.

Despite coming off a 30 metre backmark, Blue Sky Commander was soon trailing the pacemaker Mister Oz, before winning by a 12 metre margin in advance of The Third Son and Strazeele in a rate of 2-04.6.

Good win at Ballarat

■ Terang's Matty Craven scored a terrific victory with much travelled 10-Y-0 Wagon Apollo/Reba Springfield gelding Star Gun in the Dr. Louisa Johnson Trotters Handicap for T5 or better class over 2710 metres at Bray Raceway Ballarat on Thursday.

Starting from 10 metres, Star Gun scrambled and galloped several times, before settling a mile off the front line leader Invasive facing an almost impossible task.

Gradually making ground to tack on, Star Gun moved forward mid-race leading up the outside division and appeared to be travelling under a tight rein. Joining the leader approaching the final bend, Star Gun showed a great will to win, scoring by a half head over Senitas Success (which trailed the leader before easing to be on the winners back back on turning), with Invasive weakening to finish third.

The mile rate 2-05.8.

It was Star Gun's 16th victory in 112 outings.

Pleased with win ■ Great Western sisters Michelle Wight and Kerryn Manning were successful with 6-Y-0 Four Starzzz Shark/Talilia gelding Jackabeems in the Kim Hill Pace for C3 & C4 class over 2200 metres at Ballarat, leading all of the way from gate four to account for Sirladyn Reba (three back the markers) and Reign Of Pain which followed the winner. The mile rate 2-00.4.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 55

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FRANKSTON, 3199. Frankston Newsagency. 5 Keys St, Frankston. (03) 9783 3253.

FRANKSTON, 3199. Karingal Hub Newsagency. c/ - Bayside Distribution Services. (03) 9776 7744.

FRANKSTON, 3199. Young Street Newsagency. 78 Young St, Frankston. (03) 9783 2467.

GARDENVALE, 3186. See Brighton.

GARFIELD, 3814. Garfield Newsagency Pty Ltd. 77 Main St, Garfield. (03) 5629 2533.

GEELONG, 3220. Geelong Newsagency & Lotto.

139 Moorabool St, Geelong. (03) 5222 1911.

GEELONG EAST, 3219. East Geelong Newsagency.

78A Garden St. (03) 5229 5109.

GEELONG WEST, 3218. Manifold Newsagency.

Shop 2, 132 Shannon Ave, Geelong West. (03) 5229 5897.

GEELONG WEST, 3218. Murphy's Newsagency. PO Box 7133, Geelong West. (03) 5229 1973.

GISBORNE, 3437. Gisborne Newsagency. Shop 20, Village Shopping Centre. (03) 5428 2632.

GLADSTONE PARK, 3043. Gladstone Park Newsagency. Shop 164. (03) 9338 3921.

GLEN HUNTLY, 3163. Glenhuntly Newsagency.

1164 Glenhuntly Rd, Glenhuntly. (03) 9571 2551.

GLEN WAVERLEY, 3150. Glen Waverley News.

Shop L2, 65 Glen S/C, Springvale Rd, Glen Waverley. (03) 9802 8503.

GLEN WAVERLEY, 3150. Kingsway Newsagency.

65 Kingsway, Glen Waverley. (03) 9560 9987.

GLEN WAVERLEY, 3150. Syndal Newsagency. 238 Blackburn Rd, Glen Waverley. (03) 9802 8446.

GLENFERRIE, 3122. See Hawthorn.

GLENROY, 3046. Glenroy Newsagency. 773 Pascoe Vale Rd, Glenroy. (03) 9306 9530.

GRANTVILLE, 3984. Grantville Newsagency. Shop 4, 1509 Bass Hwy, Grantville. (03) 5678 8808.

GREENSBOROUGH, 3088. Greensborough Newsagency. Shop 4-5 Greensborough. (03) 9435 1024.

GREENVALE, 3059. Greenvale Newsagency. Shop 4 & 5, Cnr Mickleham & Greenvale Rds, Greenvale. (03) 9333 3154.

GROVEDALE, 3216. Grovedale Newsagency. 19 Peter St. (03) 5243 1480.

HADFIELD, 3046. Hadfield Newsagency. 120 West St, Hadfield. (03) 9306 5007.

HAMPTON, 3188. Hampton Newsagency. 345-347 Hampton St, Hampton. (03) 9598 1239.

HAMPTON EAST, 3188. Hampton East Newsagency.

412 Bluff Rd, Hampton East.(03) 9555 2821.

HAMPTON PARK, 3976. Hampton Park Newsagency. Shop 3, Park Square, Hampton Park. (03) 9799 1609.

HASTINGS, 3915. Hastings Newsagency. 56 High St. (03) 5979 1321.

HAWTHORN, 3122. Glenferrie Newsagency.669 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn. (03) 9818 2621.

HAWTHORN EAST, 3123. Auburn Newsagency. 119 Auburn Rd, Hawthorn East. (03) 9813 4838.

HAWTHORN EAST, 3123. Auburn South Newsagency. 289 Auburn Rd, Hawthorn East.

(03) 9882 2009.

HAWTHORN WEST, 3122. Hawthorn West Newsagency. 44 Church St, Hawthorn. (03) 9853 6098.

HEALESVILLE, 3777. Healesville Newsagency.

(03) 5962 4161.

HEIDELBERG, 3084. Heidelberg Newsagency. 128 Burgundy St, Heidelberg. (03) 9457 1098.

HEIDELBERG WEST, 3081. Heidelberg Heights Newsagency. 35 Southern Rd, Heidelberg West.

(03) 9457 2063.

HEIDELBERG WEST, 3081. The Mall Newsagency.

Shop 18, Heidelberg West. (03) 9457 4244.

HIGHETT, 3190. Highett Newsagency. 2 Railway Pde, Highett. (03) 9555 1010.

HIGHTON, 3216. Highton Newsagency. 7 Bellevue Ave. (03) 5243 4824, HOPPERS CROSSING, 3030. Hoppers Crossing Newsagency. 31 Old Geelong Rd, Hoppers Crossing. (03) 9749 2652, HUNTINGDALE, 3166. Huntingdale Newsagency.

291 Huntingdale Rd, Huntingdale. (03) 9544 1175.

HURSTBRIDGE, 3099. Hurstbridge Newsagency.

800 Main Rd. (03) 9718 2045.

IVANHOE, 3079. NewsXPress. 194-196 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe. (03) 9499 1231.

IVANHOE EAST, 3079. East Ivanhoe Newsagency.

262 Lower Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe East. (03) 9499 1720.

KEILOR, 3036. Centreway Newsagency. 59 Wyong St, Keilor East, 3033. (03) 9336 2451.

KEILOR, 3036. Keilor Newsagency. 700 Calder Hwy, Keilor. (03) 9336 7930.

KEILOR DOWNS, 3038. Keilor Downs Newsagency.

Shop 3, Keilor Downs Plaza, Keilor Downs. (03) 9310 9955.

KEW, 3101. Cotham Newsagency. 97 Cotham Rd, Kew. (03) 9817 3840.

KEW, 3101. Kew Newsagency. 175 High St, Kew. (03) 9853 8238.

KEW NORTH, 3101. North Kew Newsagency. 93 Willsemere Rd, Kew. (03) 9853 9383.

KEYSBOROUGH, 3173. Parkmore Newsagency.

Parkmore Shopping Centre, Kensington. (03) 9798 4311.

KILMORE, 3764. Kilmore Newsagency. 41 Sydney St. (03) 5782 1465.

KILSYTH, 3137. Kilsyth Newsagency. 520 Mt Dandenong Rd. (03) 9725 6218.

KINGSVILLE, 3012. See Footscray West.

KNOX CITY. See Wantirna South KNOXFIELD, 3180. Knoxfield Newsagency. (03) 9764 8260.

KOO-WEE-RUP, 3981. Koo Wee Rup Newsagency.

44-48 Station St, Koo Wee Rup. (03) 5997 1456.

LALOR, 3075. Lalor Newsagency. 364 Station St, Lalor. (03) 9465 2698.

LARA, 3212. Lara Newsagency. 44 The Centreway, Lara. (03) 5282 1419.

LAVERTON, 3028. Laverton Newsagency. 12 Aviation Rd, Laverton. (03) 9369 1426.

LEOPOLD, 3028. Leopold Newsagency. 45 Ash Rd, Leopold. (03) 5250 1687.

LILYDALE, 3140. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St. (03) 9735 1705.

LOWER PLENTY, 3093. Lower Plenty Newsagency.

95 Main Rd. (03) 9435 6423.

LOWER TEMPLESTOWE, 3107. See Templestowe Lower.

MALVERN, 3144. Malvern Newsagency. 114 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern. (03) 9509 8381.

MALVERN, 3144. Malvern Village Newsagency.

1352 Malvern Rd, Malvern. (03) 9822 3761.

MALVERN, 3144. Winterglen Newsagency Malvern Lotto. 167 Glenferrie Rd, Malvern. (03) 9509 9068.

MALVERN EAST, 3145. Central Park Newsagency.

393 Wattletree Rd, Malvern East. (03) 9509 9842.

McCRAE, 3938. McCrae Newsagency, 675 Point Nepean Rd. (03) 5986 8499.

McKINNON, 3204. McKinnon Newsagency. 148 McKinnon Rd, McKinnon. (03) 9578 4478.

MELBOURNE, 3000. Mitty's Newsagency. 53 Bourke St, Melbourne. (03) 9654 5950.

MELTON, 3337. Melton Authorised Newsagency.

383-385 High St, Melton. (03) 9743 5451.

MELTON, 3337. NewsXPress. (03) 9743 5451.

MENTONE, 3194. Mentone Newsagency. 24 Como Pde, Mentone. (03) 9585 3494.

MERLYNSTON, 3058. Merlynston Newsagency. (03) 9354 1532.

MIDDLE BRIGHTON, 3186. Middle Brighton Newsagency. 75-77 Church St, Middle Brighton.

(03) 9592 1000.

MIDDLE PARK, 3206. Middle Park Newsagency.

16 Armstrong St, Middle Park.

MILDURA, 3500. Klemm's Mildura Newsagency.

(03) 5302 1004.

MILL PARK, 3082. Mill Park Authorised Newsagency. Stables Shopping Centre, Cnr Childs Rd & Redleap Ave, Mill Park. (03) 9436 4400.

MITCHAM, 3132. Mitcham Newsagency. 503 Whitehorse Rd, Mitcham. (03) 9873 1108.

MOE, 3825. Yeatman's Newsagency. 3A Moore St, Moe. (03) 5127 1002.

MONT ALBERT., 3127. Mont Albert Newsagency.

42 Hamilton St, Mont Albert. (03) 9890 1140.

MONTMORENCY, 3094. Montmorency Newsagency.

41-43 Were St. (03) 9435 8893.

MONTROSE, 3765. Montrose Newsagency. 912 Mt Dandenong Rd. (03) 9728 2057.

MOONEE PONDS, 3039. Puckle Street Newsagency.

45 Puckle St, Moonee Ponds. (03) 9375 2264.

MORDIALLOC, 3195. Mordialloc Newsagency.

574A Main St, Mordialloc. (03) 9580 5141.

MORDIALLOC, 3195. Warren Village Newsagency.

87 Warren Rd. (03) 9580 3880.

MORELAND, 3056. See Brunswick.

MORNINGTON, 3931. Mornington Newsagency. 97 Main St, Mornington. (03) 5975 2099.

MORNINGTON, 3931. Scribes Newsagency. Shop 1/10, Mornington Village, Mornington. (03) 5975 5849.

If your local newsagency is not listed, and you would like them to stock the Melbourne Observer, please ask them to contact All Day Distribution, phone (03) 9482 1145.

MORWELL, 3840. Morwell Newsagency. 176 Commercial Rd, Morwell. (03) 5134 4133.

MOUNT ELIZA, 3934. Mount Eliza Newsagency.

102 Mount Eliza Way. (03) 5974 2347.

MOUNT MARTHA, 3934. Mount Martha Newsagency. 2 Lochiel Ave, Mount Martha. (03) 5974 2347.

MOUNT WAVERLEY, 3149. Pinewood Newsagency.

Shop 59, Centreway Shopping Centre, Mount Waverley. (03) 9802 7008.

MOUNTAIN GATE, 3156. See Ferntree Gully.

MT EVELYN, 3658. Mt Evelyn Newsagency. 1A Wray Cres. (03) 9736 2302.

MULGRAVE, 3170. Northvale Newsagency. 901 Springvale Rd, Mulgrave. (03) 9546 0200.

MULGRAVE, 3170. Waverley Gardens Newsagency. Shop 44, Waverley Gardens, Mulgrave. (03) 9547 5773.

MURCHISON, 3610. Murchison Newsagency, Murchison. (03) 5826 2152, MURRUMBEENA, 3163. Murrumbeena Newsagency. 456 Nerrim Rd, Murrumbenna. (03) 9568 1959.

NARRE WARREN, 3805. Narre Warren News & Tatts. Shop 1 Webb St, Narre Warren. (03) 9704 6495.

NEWCOMB, 3220. Newcomb Newsagency, Geelong. (03) 5248 5434.

NEWMARKET, 3031. Newmarket Newsagency. 294 Racecourse Rd, Newmarket. (03) 9376 6075.

NEWPORT, 3015. Newport Newsagency. 6 Hall St, Newport. (03) 9391 2548.

NIDDRIE, 3042. Niddrie Newsagency. 455 Keilor Rd, Niddrie. (03) 9379 3840.

NOBLE PARK, 3174. Noble Park Newsagency. 22 Douglas St, Noble Park. (03) 9546 9079.

NOBLE PARK, 3174. Variety Newsagency. 1268 Heatherton Rd, Noble Park. (03) 9546 7916.

NORTH BALWYN, 3104. See Balwyn North.

NORTH MELBOURNE, 3051. See West Melbourne.

NORTH MELBOURNE, 3051. Haines Street Newsagency. 46 Haines St. (03) 9328 1195.

NORTH MELBOURNE, 3051. News On Errol. (03) 9326 3744.

NORTHCOTE, 3070. Croxton Newsagency. 509 High St, Northcote. (03) 9481 3624.

NORTHCOTE, 3070. Northcote Newsagency. 335 High St, Northcote. (03) 9481 3725.

NORTHCOTE, 3070. Northcote Newsplaza. (03) 9481 7130.

NUNAWADING, 3131. Mountainview Newsagency.

293A Springfield Rd, Nunawading. (03) 9878 7887.

NYAH, 3594. Nyah General Store. (03) 5030 2230.

OAK PARK, 3046. Oak Park Newsagency. 120 Snell Grove, Oak Park. (03) 9306 5472.

OAKLEIGH, 3166. Oakleigh Newsagency. Shop 61-63, Oakleigh. (03) 9563 0703.

OAKLEIGH EAST, 3166. Oakleigh East Auth.

Newsagency. 190 Huntingdale Rd, East Oakleigh.

(03) 9544 4322.

OAKLEIGH SOUTH, 3167. Oakleigh South Newsagency. (03) 9570 5833.

OCEAN GROVE, 3226. Ocean Grove Newsagency.

82 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. (03) 5256 1779.

PAKENHAM, 3810. Pakenham Newsagency. 99 Main St, Pakenham. (03) 5941 1243.

PARKDALE, 3195. Parkdale Newsagencxy. 238 Como Pde. (03) 9580 1724.

PASCOE VALE, 3044. Pascoe Vale Central Newsagency. 110 Cumberland Rd, Pascoe Vale.

(03) 9354 8472.

PASCOE VALE, 3044. Coonans Hill News/Tatts/ Post Office. 67 Coonans Rd, Pascoe Vale South.

(03) 9386 7465.

PASCOE VALE SOUTH, 3044. Paper N Post. Pascoe Vale South. (03) 9354 1432.

PEARCEDALE, 3912. Pearcedale Newsagency.

Shop 14, Pearcedale Village Shopping Centre, Pearcedale. (03) 5978 6343.

POINT COOK, 3030. NewsXPress. (03) 9395 0424.

POINT LONSDALE, 3225. Point Lonsdale Newsagency. 99 Point Lonsdale Rd. (03) 5258 1159.

PORT MELBOURNE, 3207. Port Melbourne Distribution. (03) 9681 8122.

PORTARLINGTON, 3223. Portarlington Newsagency. Shop 1, 60 Newcombe St, Portarlington. (03) 5289 2892.

PRAHRAN, 3181. Prahran Market Newsagency.

Shop 3A Pran Central, Prahran. (03) 9521 1200.

PRESTON, 3072. Northland Newsagency. Shop 3, Northland Shopping Centre. (03) 9478 2693.

PRESTON, 3072. Preston Newsagency. 377 High St, Preston. (03) 9478 3001.

PRESTON, 3072. Preston Town Hall Newsagency.

411 High St, Preston. (03) 9470 1630.

PRINCES HILL, 3054. See Carlton North.

QUEENSCLIFF, 3225. Queenscliff Newsagency. (03) 5258 1828.

RESERVOIR, 3073. Reservoir Newsagency. 22 Edwardes St, Reservoir. (03) 9460 6317.

RESERVOIR, 3073. Broadway Newsagency. 279 Broadway, Reservoir. (03) 9460 6510.

RHYLL, 3923. Rhyll Newsagency. 41 Lock Rd, Rhyll.

(03) 5956 9205.

RICHMOND, 3121. Swan Street Newsagency. 108 Swan St, Richmond. (03) 9428 7450.

RICHMOND, 3121. Vernons Newsagency. 308A Bridge Rd, Richmond. (03) 9428 7373.

RINGWOOD EAST, 3135. Ringwood East Newsagency. 52 Railway Ave, Ringwood East.

(03) 9870 6515.

RINGWOOD NORTH, 3134. North Ringwood Newsagency. 182 Warrandyte Rd, North Ringwood. (03) 9876 2765.

ROBINVALE, 3549. Robinvale Newsagency. (03) 5026 3264.

ROCKBANK, 3335. Rockbank Newsagency. (03) 9747 1300.

ROSANNA, 3084. Rosanna Newsagency. 135 Lower Plenty Rd, Rosanna. (03) 9459 7722.

ROSANNA EAST, 3084. Banyule Newsagency. 55 Greville Rd, East Rosanna. (03) 9459 7027.

ROSEBUD, 3939. Rosebud Newsagency. 1083 Nepean Hwy, Rosebud. (03) 5986 8359.

RYE, 3941. Rye Newsagency. 2371 Point Nepean Rd, Rye. (03) 5985 2013.

SANCTUARY LAKES, 3030. Sanctuary Lakes Newsagency. Shop 16, 300 Point Cook Rd. (03) 9395 4055.

SALE, 3850. Sale Newsagency. (03) 5144 2070.

SAN REMO, 3925. San Remo Newsagency. 105 Marine Pde, San Remo. (03) 5678 5447.

SANDRINGHAM, 3191. Sandringham Newsagency 58-60 Station St, Sandringham. (03) 9598 1246.

SEAFORD, 3198. Carrum Downs Newsagency. (03 9782 6333.

SEAFORD, 3198. Seaford Newsagency. 124 Nepean Hwy, Seaford. (03) 9786 1220.

SEDDON, 3011. Seddon Newsagency & Lotto. 74 Charles St, Seddon. (03) 9687 1919.

SEVILLE, 3139. Seville Newsagency. 654 Warburton Hwy. (03) 5964 2236.

SHEPPARTON, 3630. Lovell's Newsagency. 246 Wyndham St, Shepparton. (03) 5821 2622.

SOMERVILLE, 3912. Somerville Newsagency Shop 24, Plaza, Eramosa Rd West, Somerville (03) 5977 5282.

SOUTHBANK, 3006. Melbourne Centra Newsagency. 292 City Rd, Southbank. (03) 9690 3900.

SOUTH MELBOURNE, 3205. Clarendon Newsagency. 276 Clarendon St, South Melbourne (03) 9690 1350.

SOUTH MELBOURNE, 3205. South Melbourne Newsagency. 358 Clarendon St, South Melbourne (03) 9690 7481.

SOUTH MORANG, 3752. South Morang Newsagency. 17-19 Gorge Rd. (03) 9404 1502 SPRINGVALE, 3171. Springvale Newsagency. 321 Springvale Rd, Springvale. (03) 9546 9235.

ST KILDA, 3182. Esplanade Newsagency. 115 Fitzroy St, St Kilda. (03) 9525 3321.

ST KILDA, 3182. St Kilda Junction Newsagency 52 St Kilda Rd, St Kilda. (03) 9510 1056.

ST KILDA, 3182. Village Belle Newsagency. 161163 Acland St, St Kilda. (03) 9525 5167.

ST LEONARDS, 3223. St Leonards Newsagency Foreshore Rd, St Leonards. (03) 5257 1604.

STRATHMORE, 3041. Napier Street Newsagency 313 Napier St, Strathmore. (03) 9379 2603.

STRATHMORE, 3041. Strathmore Newsagency. 15 Woodland St, Strathmore. (03) 9379 1515.

SUNBURY, 3429. Sunbury Authorised Newsagency. 14 Brook St, Sunbury. (03) 9744 1220.

SUNSHINE, 3020. Sunshine Newsagency. 3/282 Hampshire Rd, Sunshine. (03) 9312 2654.

SUNSHINE SOUTH, 3020. South Sunshine Newsagency. 22 Tallintyre Rd, Sunshine. (03 9312 1629.

TAYLORS LAKES, 3038. Watergardens Newsagency. Shop 92, Bay B (Near Safeway) Taylors Lakes. (03) 9449 1122.

TEESDALE, 3328. Teesdale Newsagency. 1071 Bannockburn Rd. (03) 5281 5230.

TEMPLESTOWE, 3106. Templestowe Newsagency 122 James St, Templestowe. (03) 9846 2486.

TEMPLESTOWE LOWER, 3107. Macedon News & Lotto. 25 Macedon Rd, Lower Templestowe. (03) 9850 2720.

THORNBURY, 3071. Normanby Newsagency. 703 High St, Thornbury. (03) 9484 2802.

THORNBURY, 3071. Rossmoyne Newsagency. 406 Station St,Thornbury. (03) 9484 6967.

TOORADIN, 3980. Tooradin Newsagency. 94 South Gippsland Hwy, Tooradin. (03) 5996 3343.

TOORAK, 3142. Hawksburn Newsagency. 529 Malvern Rd, Toorak. (03) 9827 3569.

TOORAK, 3142. Toorak Village Newsagency. 487 Toorak Rd, Toorak. (03) 9826 1549.

TORQUAY, 3228. Torquay Newsagency. 20 Gilber St, Torquay. (03) 5261 2448.

TOTTENHAM, 3012. Braybrook Newsagency. 127 South Rd, Tottenham. (03) 9364 8083.

TULLAMARINE, 3045. Tullamarine Newsagency 199 Melrose Dr, Tullamarine. (03) 9338 1063.

UNDERA, 3629. Undera Newsagency. (03) 5826 0242.

UPWEY, 3158. Upwey Newsagency. 18 Main St Upwey. (03) 9754 2324.

UPPER FERNTREE GULLY, 3156. Upper Ferntree Gully Newsagency. (03) 9756 0171.

VERMONT, 3133. Vermont Authorised Newsagency. 600 Canterbury Rd, Vermont South (03) 9873 1845.

VERMONT SOUTH, 3133. Vermont South Newsagency. 495 Burwood Hwy, Vermont South (03) 9802 4768.

WALLAN, 3756. Wallan Newsagency. 59 High St (03) 5783 1215.

WANDIN NORTH, 3139. Wandin North Newsagency. 18 Union Rd. (03) 5964 3339.

WANTIRNA SOUTH, 3152. Knox City Newsagency Shop 2080, Shopping Centre. (03) 9801 5050 WANTIRNA SOUTH, 3152. Wantirna South Newsagency. 233 Stud Rd.. (03) 9801 2310.

WARRAGUL, 3820. Heeps Newsagency. 6 Victoria St, Warragul. (03) 5623 1737.

WATSONIA, 3087. Watsonia Newsagency. 93 Watsonia Rd, Watsonia. (03) 9435 2175.

WATTLE PARK, 3128. See Box Hill South.

WERRIBEE, 3030. Werribee Newsagency. 16 Station Pl, Werribee. (03) 9741 4644.

WERRIBEE, 3030. Werribee Plaza Newsagency Shop 37, Shopping Centre, Werribee Plaza. (03) 9749 6766.

WEST MELBOURNE, 3003. North Melbourne Newsagency. 178-182 Rosslyn St, West Melbourne. (03) 9328 1763.

WESTALL, 3169. Westall Newsagency. 148 Rosebank Ave, Westall. (03) 9546 7867.

WHEELERS HILL, 3150. Brandon Park Newsagency. Shop 28, Wheelers Hill. (03) 9560 5854.

WHEELERS HILL, 3150. Wheelers Hil Newsagency. 200 Jells Rd, Wheelers Hill. (03) 9561 5318.

WHITTLESEA, 3757. Whittlesea Newsagency. 59 Church St. (03) 9716 2060.

WILLIAMSTOWN, 3016. Williamstown News & Lotto. 16 Douglas Pde, Williamstown. (03) 9397 6020.

WINDSOR, 3181. Windsor Newsagency. 71 Chapel St, Windsor. (03) 9510 2030.

WONTHAGGI, 3995. Wonthaggi Newsagency. 27A McBride St, Wonthaggi. (03) 5672 1256.

WOORI YALLOCK. Woori Yallock Newsagency. (03 5964 6008.

YARRA GLEN, 3775. Yarra Glen Newsagency. (03 9730 1392.

YARRAVILLE, 3013. Yarraville Newsagency. 59 Anderson St, Yarraville. (03) 9687 2987.

YEA, 3717. Yea Newsagency, 78 High St. (03 5797 2196.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - Page 57

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