Melbourne Observer. December 12, 2018

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12 , 2018

VICTORIA’S INDEPENDENT WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

49TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION $2.95

S TATE EDITION Vol 50 No 1719 SERVING VICTORIA SINCE 1969

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● Music Theatre Guild of Victoria Recipient of Best Director and Production of the Year (Spring Awakening) Angela Phillips, with Assistant Director Ashley Wilsnach. Winners’ list - Page 10. More photos - Page 11.

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Showbiz News

What’s On At Eternity’s Gate

‘My life in broadcasting’ ■ Retired broadcaster and journalist Cliff Peel spent his youth at boarding school, in farm work and on surfing holidays.

Born in 1936 in a small farming community near Geelong, Cliff expanded his interest in the world by hitchhiking around Tasmania with a school friend at age seventeen. Thus began a lifelong love of travel.

Gaining media experience while President of the Young Farmer’s Association, Cliff decided to enrol at the Vincent School of Broad-

One more issue before Christmas

■ Next week’s issue (Dec. 19) of the Melbourne Observer will be the final edition for 2018.

The first issue for 2019 will be published on Wednesday, February 6.

Advertising bookings will be accepted until 5pm Monday (December 17).

● Cliff Peel, author of My Life in Broadcasting: It’s Been a Lot of Fun

Music Play Family Festival

casting in Melbourne while supporting himself as an electrical meter salesman and spruiking for Woolworths.

In My Life in Broadcasting: It’s Been a Lot of Fun, Cliff describes his first positions as a broadcaster, copywriter and journalist in regional radio stations in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

In 1964, Cliff moved to Melbourne television and worked in the newsrooms of ABV-2 and Channel 0, between undertaking the first of many solo rail trips to see the world.

A stamp lover from childhood, Cliff became a serious collector as an adult and travelled the world to visit these places, eventually having visited 67 countries.

Also in his book, Cliff describes his work as the first Tapes Room editor in the news department and his later assistance with the implementation of the BASYS digital computer system at the ABC and other locations.

Cliff recounts his personal experience of the transformation of broadcasting from Morse code and telegrams to the digitised 24-hour news cycle.

Also included are his recollections of football umpiring, surf lifesaving, amateur theatre, wine, cheese and railway appreciation, volunteer work and travels both within Australia and overseas.

Cliff returned to the ABC before going to work at Channel 0 (now Channel 10) as Chief of Staff in the newsroom in 1971 and at this time met his life partner Rob. He later became the inaugural Tapes Editor at ABC Radio News in Melbourne, where he oversaw the training of journalists such as Ian Henderson, Barrie Cassidy and Heather Ewart.

Cliff Peel’s autobiographical book My Life in Broadcasting: It’s Been a Lot of Fun is available from various online sources, including www.amazon.com - Cheryl Threadgold

■ Directed by Julian Schnabel and co-written with Louise Kugelberg and Jean-Claude Carriere this biographical, dramatic screenplay, At Eternity’s Gate, was awarded the 2018 Venice Film Festival, Golden Lion.

Schnabel’s intention was to film the much explored last year’s life of Vincent van Gogh (Willem Dafoe) through the eyes of the painter.

His version has drawn on documented letters and facts threaded with speculation.

Schnabel accomplishes this through dialogue between key players, Vincent’s beloved brother and patron, Theo (Rupert Friend), his close friend, Paul Gaugin (Oscar Isaac) and inhabitants including doctors of Arles and Bouches-du-Rhone, and Auvers-sur-Aise: the French towns where the artist spent his latter years.

Beautifully filmed in the three towns, the use of held-hand camerawork and discordant music captured his instances of freedom, inspiration, exhilaration along with his torment, sorrow and madness.

Evident in Dafoe’s deep-lined face, piercing blue eyes and colouring, the likeness to Vincent’s self-portraits is haunting. We see inside Vincent’s gentle but anguished soul when taunted by townsfolk who misunderstood his work and persona.

He is cited as saying “When facing a landscape, I see nothing but eternity. Am I the only one?” This statement, giving title to the film, characterises the depths of his understanding of what he saw enabling him to paint in his unique way. The title leads us to hope that death may have soothed his psychological delusions and opened another gate.

His impatience becomes the source of Gaugin’s ire when describing Vincent’s work as sculptural leading to their subsequent rift.

Finally, circumstances surrounding Vincent’s mysterious death remain unanswered. Schnabel has achieved a stunning portrayal of the tragedy and genius of Vincent.

Opens February 14.

- Review by Sherryn Danaher

Observations

with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● James Morrison ■ Melbourne Recital Centre announces its ing lullabies. Children discover a perfect in2019 program for Music Play Family Festi- troduction to pop and rock music with The val, covering four days of concerts, workshops Kiddyrock Band, and Inventi Ensemble perand fun free activities just for families, includ- forms Peter & the Wolf, with a new narration. ing standout performances by James As always there is plenty of learning going Morrison, Melbourne Youth Orchestra and on, from singing, dancing and music-making Romanian pianist Alexandra Dariescu. in Song Play to learning a new instrument in Each year the Festival is eagerly awaited Woody Clark’s The Ukulele Kids Show – ukuby audiences young and old. The Centre is leles provided. renowned for presenting the world’s finest muOther highlights are the fabulous worksicians and bands on its stages, and Music shops.

Play unleashes the musician, composer, rock Learning and Access Coordinator Belinda star or rap artist in all of us.

Ashe says: “We are excited to be presenting a The year 2019 is Melbourne Recital range of fun interactive workshops for famiCentre’s 10th Anniversary, which makes the lies. Children of all ages will have the chance Festival an occasion to celebrate all families to learn how to beatbox, write a song, play and their stories of enjoying great music at the percussion or even sign a pop song in Auslan Centre.

– the language of the Australian deaf comFor many children, Music Play will be their munity.’ first time attending a live performance or playAll this plus free foyer activities including ing an instrument.

Open Stage, a photo booth and face painting, Director of Programming Marshall hosted by Madame Lark.

McGuire says: “In our 10th Anniversary year, “There’s an open stage where kids can perMusic Play is brighter and bigger than ever form for us all, and Madame Lark – slightly before. You can see and hear The Nutcracker spooky, slightly kooky, but always willing to in a mesmerising new production with live share a birdsong with you – will roam throughmusic and dance interacting with projected out the venue for the whole festival. images.

“Make sure you meet her. There’s music “The Bush Concert is a uniquely Austra- of all sorts, for audiences of all ages. What lian way to meet the orchestra, and James better way to start our 10th Anniversary than Morrison, Australia’s great man of jazz, al- with a big party where music for kids and famiways amazes with his astonishing musician- lies is the focus,” Marshall McGuire said. ship.’

Music Play Family Festival 2019 Along with big concerts in Elisabeth Wednesday January 16 – Saturday JanuMurdoch Hall, there is an array of mini con- ary 19, daily from 9am certs for the little ones held daily in Primrose Melbourne Recital Centre Potter Salon. The Lullaby Project has parTickets from $10 ents and kids under two years relaxing to sooth - Di Rolle

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5

THE T OP 5 PRODUCT S THA T TOP PRODUCTS THAT DIDN'T MAKE IT BE CAUSE BEC THEY WERE BADL Y BR ANDED BADLY BRANDED ANDED..

5. 7Down.

4. Young Spice.

3. John Daniels.

2. iPud. 1. Fred Tam.

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Observer Theatre Guild Awards inc orpor a ting the Melbourne A d vvertiser ertiser, incorpor orpora Ad Melbourne T ict orian Rur al Ne ws Trr ader ader,, V Vict ictorian Rural New and Melbourne Seniors News News..

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■ The 32nd Annual Bruce Awards were presented by the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria at the stunning, new state-of-the-art theatre, Bunjil Place in Narre Warren.

Hosted by Windmill Theatre, this year’s event was kept moving by entertaining compere Ang Cuy, with direction by Stuart Dodge, musical direction by Malcom Huddle and production management by Brett Wingfield.

In her opening address, President of the MTGV, Beverley Meldrum spoke of excellence achieved through passion and commitment and spoke of the event as a ‘collective celebration of musical theatre’.

Beverley also drew attention to the fabulous work undertaken on a voluntary basis by members of the two MTGV Judging Panels.

This year, 117 Victorian productions were submitted for judging in the period December, 2017 to November, 2018, including school productions.

The Open Panel and Junior Panel judging involves the judges travelling across Victoria to regional and urban areas to see productions at their own expense and in their own time.

The quality acts presented during the evening by schools and theatre companies were selected from productions seen during the year, and gave an indication of the current incredibly high standard of non-professional musical theatre in Victoria.

Awards were presented as follows.

Life Member Awards Brad Fischer David Crawshaw Musician’sAward Ned Dixon Edith Harrhy Award Jeff Maxwell Awards of Excellence Open Concert Award Geelong Lyric Theatre Song Contest – The Almost Eurovision Experience 2018 Design Award Horsham Arts Council Audrey2Design in Little Shop of Horror Ensemble Award MLOC Productions Spring Awakening Cameo Performance Award Stephanie Powell CLOC Musical Theatre Jekyll &Hyde the Musical Gladys Moncrieff Award for First Performance in a Featured Role Josh Gardiner Peter Allen in Boy From Oz Wonthaggi Theatre Company Dancer’s Award Chaise Rosseillo Billie Lawler, 42nd Street CentreStage Geelong Junior Performer in an Open Production Phoebe Bourke Mary in Dusty Babirra Music Theatre Five Awards of Excellence Junior The King David School for The Sound of Music opening sequence sung entirely in a cappella Mount Scopus Memorial College, for a student’s aerial acrobatics performance at the start of The Little Mermaid Emmaus College, for the performance of the Wickersham Brothers in Seussical the Musical Girton Grammar, for design of program for production of Peter Pan Adamson Theatre Company, Wesley College, for Lincoln Pinnell’s performance as Tam in Miss Saigon Congratulations Mount Scopus Memorial College on your “Award for Excellence" for a students aerial acrobatics performance at the start of your production of The Little Mermaid.

Awards of Excellence Junior Junior Design Brentwood Secondary College In the Heights For Settings Camberwell Grammar School with Canterbury Girls Secondary College Jesus Christ Superstar For production concept and technical achievement.

Junior Female in a Supporting Role

Your Stars with Kerry Kulkens ARIES: (March 21-April 20) Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 1-2-1-9 Lotto Numbers: 1-12-19-25-28-37 More opportunities and scope to push career plans. Some may have doubts about existing relationships. Wise to leave things the way they are for the moment. Social scene brings some unusual invitations.

● By Cheryl Threadgold Susannah Bourke as Annas in Jesus Christ Superstar.

Camberwell Grammar with Canterbury Girls Secondary College. and Tori Hronopoulos as Daniela in In the Heights Brentwood Secondary College Junior Male in a Supporting Role Campbell Nathan, Sonny, in The Heights Brentwood Secondary College Junior Female Performer in a Leading Role Chloe Vigilante, JoJo in Seussical the Musical Emmaus College Junior Male Performer in a Leading Role Will McGrath, Freddy Benson in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Caulfield Grammar Choreography of a Junior Production Robert Mulholland, Seussical Emmaus College Musical Direction of a Junior Production Ben Bishop, Jesus Christ Superstar Camberwell Grammar and Canterbury Girls Secondary College Direction of a Junior Production Andrew Stocker, Jesus Christ Superstar Camberwell Grammar with Canterbury Girls Secondary College and Joe Bathala, In the Heights Brentwood Secondary College Awards of Excellence Open Technical Achievement Award Windmill Theatre Company We Will Rock You Sound Award Marcello Lo Ricco PLOS Musical Productions The Phantom of the Opera Lighting Award (Joint) Daniel Gosling, Jason Bovaird and Daniel Jow PLOS Musical Productions’ The Phantom of The Opera CenterStage Geelong's production of We Will Rock You WardrobeAward Victoria Horne CLOC Musical Productions Strictly Ballroom Settings Award DaveAngelico Altona City Theatre Rock of Ages and Annie, Leongatha Lyric Theatre Female Performer in a Supporting Role Alarna Summers, Martha, Spring Awakening MLOC Productions Male Performer in a Supporting Role Daniel Nieborski, Moritz, Spring Awakening MLOC Productions Female Performer in a Leading Role Morgan Heynes, Scaramouche in We Will Rock You CentreStage Geelong Male Performer in a Leading Role Jonathon Gardner, Galileo in We Will Rock You CentreStage Geelong ChoreographyAward Fiona Luca-Kingsbury 42nd Street CentreStage Geelong Musical Direction Award Nathan Firmin, The Phantom of the Opera PLOS Musical Productions Direction Award Angela Phillips, Spring Awakening MLOC Productions Junior Production of the Year Jesus Christ Superstar Camberwell Grammar and Canterbury Girls Secondary College Production of the Year Spring Awakening MLOC Productions

TAURUS: (April 21- May 20) Lucky Colour: Yellow Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2-4-3-4 Lotto Numbers: 4-13-22-31-39-40 Friends could try to meddle in your private affairs if you let them. Your ideas could be spot on, so use you own intuition for the best results. Most will be more in demand on the social scene.

GEMINI: (May 21- June 21) Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 4-5-3-2 Lotto Numbers: 4-13-22-31-32-42 Don't rush into any romantic encounters on the side or you will be found out. Health is important, so look after yourself. Most will be feeling more aggressive and pushing their own point of view across at work and this could make things happen.

CANCER: (June 22- July 22) Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 5-1-6-5 Lotto Numbers: 5-14-23-26-35-41 Emotionally a rather intense period and most are inclined to overspend to keep their loved one happy. New opportunities to gain financially are indicated.

LEO: (July 23-August 22) Lucky Colour: Peach Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1-4-6-4 Lotto Numbers: 5-14-25-30-32-44 New friends could bring opportunities to mix business with pleasure. Love relationships should be more enjoyable. Most can expect a few surprises while travelling.

VIRGO: (August 23- September 23) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1-4-1-7 Lotto Numbers: 1-10-14-17-27-33 A good time to ask for favours, start new ventures and make investments. Romantic opportunities are about and someone you meet during this period will definitely take your interest.

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23) Lucky Colour: Pink Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 1-1-3-4 Lotto Numbers: 1-11-25-35-40-43 Something in your past is likely to surface. Answers to mysteries and tying up of loose ends is indicated. Ask favours from those in a position to further your ambitions. Many will set off on entirely new paths.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 3-7-4-3 Lotto Numbers: 3-7-16-30-37-43 Most will be overcoming obstacles in family relationships, however make sure others are paying their own way and not relying too heavily on you.

SAGITTARIUS: (November23- December20) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 2-2-7-6 Lotto Numbers: 2-11-20-27-29-38 Many will be renewing relationships and friendships.

Many will be attracted to the unusual and someone with a hint of mystery could take your attention. However some may not be able to handle the pace.

CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19) Lucky Colour: Blue Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 3-3-2-1 Lotto Numbers: 3-12-21-26-30-39 Friends could provide an excellent financial opportunity.

Old friends get in touch and most will feel more like socializing. Financially a lucky period coming up.

AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 1-8-9-2 Lotto Numbers: 9-18-24-34-36-42 A period of rewards and surprises coming up. Most will gain more responsibility and harder work, but the rewards should be worth the effort and some could expect a financial windfall.

PISCES: (February 20- March 20) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 3-2-8-3 Lotto Numbers: 12-21-30-38-39-40 Others will be trying to influence you around to their ideas. However you could surprise all with your own ability to expand your business and aims. Believe in yourself when it comes to going after your own ambitions.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 11

Melbourne People

● David Youings with Imogen Whittaker from MLOC’s award-winning production Spring Awakening

● Liam McWhinney and Nicholas Armstrong (PLOS Musical Productions).

● Music Theatre Guild of Victoria President Beverley Meldrum, with new Life Member Brad Fischer and Secretary, Elly Foster.

Music Theatre Guild Annual Awards Photos: Malcolm Threadgold

● Ticket Secretary Fran Boyd and Simon Foster.

● Jim Slattery (left), Esme Jones (MLOC Productions) and Andrew McCormick (Windmill Theatre).

● Kaye Jackson with Dot Parker (Babirra Music Theatre).

● Kayla Wilson (PLOS Musical Productions) and Hannah Lees.

● Alana Parkin (MLOC Productions) and Jesse Thomas (PLOS Musical Productions)

● Best Choreographer Award recipient Robert Mulholland with Elise Cavallo from Emmaus College.

● Fiona Cowan (Notre Dame College, Shepparton) with Stephanie-Kaye Wilson (St Leonards College).

● President Williamstown Musical Theatre Marcus Cassidy-Anderson with Mark Spencer.

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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CHARLTON. Charlton Newsagency. 69 High St. CHELSEA. Chelsea Newsagency. 403 Nepean Hwy. CHELTENHAM. Cheltenham Newsagency. 332 Charman Rd. CLAYTON. Clayton Newsagency. 345 Clayton Rd. CLIFTON HILL. Clifton Hill Newsagency.

Queens Pde. COBURG. Coburg Newsagency. 481-483 Sydney Rd. COLAC. Blanes Newsagency. 164 Murray St. COWES. Cowes Newsagency. 44-46 Thompson Ave. CRAIGIEBURN. The Lucky Charm.

Craigieburn Central. 340 Craigieburn Rd CRANBOURNE. Cranbourne Newsagency. 105 High St. CROYDON. Burnt Bridge Newsagency. 434 Maroondah Hwy. CROYDON. Croydon Newsagency. 166 Main St. CROYDON NORTH. Croydon North Newsagency. 5 Exeter Rd. CROYDON SOUTH. Eastfield Newsagency. 7 The Mall.

DANDENONG. Lonsdale Newsagency.

216 Sunnyside Ave. DAYLESFORD. Daylesford Newsagency.

45 Vincent St. DELACOMBE. Ballarat Authorised Newsagency. 1 Laidlaw Drive.

DENILIQUIN. Deniliquin Newsagency and Bookstore. 14 Napier St. DIAMOND CREEK. Diamond Creek Newsagency. 62A Hurstbridge Rd. DINGLEY. Dingley Newsagency. Shop 2, Dingley Village.

DOVETON. Doveton News & Lotto. 37 Autumn Place.

DROMANA. Dromana Newsagency. 177 Point Nepean Hwy. DROUIN. MVH News. 93 Princes Way. DRYSDALE. Drysdale Newsagency. 14 High St. EAGLEMONT. Eaglemont Lucky Lotto News and Post. 60 Silverdale Rd. EDITHVALE. Edithvale Newsagency. 253 Nepean Hwy. ELSTERNWICK. Elsternwick News & Lotto. 444 Glenhuntly Rd. ELTHAM. Eltham Newsagency and Toyworld. Shop 2, 963 Main Rd. EMERALD. Emerald Newsagency. Main St. ESSENDON. Essendon Newsagency. 15a Rose St. ESSENDON. Roundabout Newsagency. 85 Fletcher St. ESSENDON NORTH. North Essendon Newsagency. 1085 Mt Alexander Rd. FAIRFIELD. Fairfield Newsagency. 99 Station St. FAWKNER. Fawkner Newsagency. 54 Bonwick St. FAWKNER NORTH. Moomba Park Newsagency. 89 Anderson Rd. FITZROY. Fitzroy Newsaagency. Cnr Brunswick and Johnston Sts. FOREST HILL. Brentford Square Newsagency. 29-31 Brentford Square.

FOREST HILL. Forest Hill Newsagency.

Shop 215, Forest Hill Chase.

GARDENVALE. Gardenvale Newsagency.

168 Martin St. GEELONG.. Geelong Newsagency and Lotto. 140 Moorabool St. GEELONG WEST. Murphy's Newsagency.

198 Pakington St.

GISBORNE. Gisborne Newsagency. Shop 20, Village Shopping Centre.

GLENFERRIE. Glenferrie Newsagency.

660 Glenferrie Rd GLEN WAVERLEY. Kingsway Newsagency. Shop 4, 39 Kingsway.

GLEN WAVERLEY. Syndal Newsagency.

238 Blackburn Rd. GLEN WAVERLEY. The Glen Newsagency. Shop 2, 065 The Glen Shopping Centre.

GLENROY. Glenroy Newsagency. 773 Pascoe Vale Rd. GRANTVILLE. Grantville Newsagency.

1509 Bass Hwy. GREENSBOROUGH. Plaza News. Shop 4/5, Greensborough Plaza.

GREYTHORN. Greythorn Newsagency.

272 Doncaster Rd. HADFIELD. Hadfield Newsagency. 120 West St HAMPTON. Hampton Newsagency. 345347 Hampton St. HAMPTON EAST. Hampton East Newsagency. 412 Bluff Rd. HAMPTON PARK. Hampton Park Newsagency. Shop 3, Shopping Centre HAWTHORN . Glenferrie South Newsagency. 546 Glenferried Rd HAWTHORN. Hawthorn News & Lotto. 89 Burwood Rd. HAWTHORN EAST. Auburn Newsagency.

119 Auburn Rd. HAWTHORN EAST. Auburn South Newsagency. 289 Auburn Rd. HEIDELBERG. Heidelberg Heights Newsagency. 35 Southern Rd. HEIDELBERG. Heidelberg Newsagency.

124 Burgundy St. HEIDELBERG WEST. The Mall Newsagency. Shop 18 The Mall.

HOLMESGLEN. Holmesglen Newsagency. 637 Warrigal Rd. HUNTINGDALE. Huntingdale Newsagency. 290 Huntingdale Rd. INDENTED HEADS. Intended Heads Newsagency. 13 The Esplanade.

KEILOR. Keilor Newsagency. 700 Old Calder Hwy. KEW. Cotham Newsagency. 97 Cotham Rd. KEW. Kew Newsagency. 175 High St. KEW NORTH. North Kew Newsagency. 93 Willsmere St. KINGSVILLE. Kingsville Newsagency.

339 Somerville Rd. KNOX CITY. Knox City Newsagency, Wantirna South.

KNOXFIELD. Knoxfield Newsagency.

1597 Ferntree Gully Rd. KOOYONG. Kooyong Newsagency. 483 Glenferrie Rd. KYABRAM. Kyabram Newsagency. 117 Allan St. KYNETON. Collins Newsagency. 95 Mollison St. LANGWARRIN SOUTH. Langwarrin South Newsagency. 1/143-149 Warrandyte Rd LARA. Lara Newsagency. 44 The Centreway.

LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St. LOWER PLENTY. Lower Plenty Newsagency. 95 Main Rd. MALVERN. Lucky Malvern Lotto. 167 Glenferrie Rd. MALVERN. Malvern Newsagency. 114 Glenferrie Rd. MALVERN. Malvern Village Newsagency.

1352 Malvern Rd. MALVERN EAST. Central Park Newsagency. 393 Wattletree Rd. MALVERN EAST NEWSAGENCY. Waverley Road Newsagency. 336 Waverley Rd. McKINNON. McKinnon Newsagency. 163 McKinnon Rd MELBOURNE. Domain Newsagency.

Shop 6, 401 St Kilda Rd. MELBOURNE. Flinders Street Newsagency. 65 Flinders St. MELTON. Newsxpress Melton.

MENTONE. Mentone Newsagency. 24 Como Pde. MERLYNSTON. Merlynston Newsagency.

17 Merlyn St. MIDDLE PARK. Middle Park Newsagency. 16 Armstrong St. MILDURA. Klemm's Mildura Newsagency.

53 Langtree Mall.

MILDURA. Mildura Newsagency and Lotto. 71 Langtree Ave. MILL PARK. Mill Park Newsagency. 4 Stables Shopping Centre.

MITCHAM. Mitcham Newsagency. 503 Whitehorse Rd. MITCHAM NORTH. Mitcham North Newsagency. 228 Mitcham Rd MOOROOPNA. Mooroopna Newsagency.

84 McLennan St. MORDIALLOC. Warren Village Newsagency. 87 Warren Rd. MORNINGTON. Mornington Newsagency. 97 Main St. MORWELL. Morwell Newsagency. 176 Commercial Rd. MOUNT ELIZA. Mount Eliza Newsagency.

102 Mount Eliza Way.

MOUNT GAMBIER. Posters Newsagency.

79 Commercial St East.

MOUNT MARTHA. Mount Martha Newsagency. 2 Lochiel Ave. MOUNT WAVERLEY. Pinewood Newsagency. Shop 59, Centreway Shopping Centre.

MOUNTAIN GATE. Mountain Gate Newsagency. Shop 9B, Mountain Gate Shopping Centre.

MULGRAVE. Northvale Newsagency. 901 Springvale Rd. MULGRAVE. Waverley Gardens Newsagency. Shop 44, Waverley Gardens.

MURRUMBEENA. Murrumbeena Newsagency. 456 Neerim Rd. NARRE WARREN. Narre Warren Newsagency. Shop 1, Narre Warren.

NEWBOROUGH. Newborough Newsagency. 30 Rutherglen St. NEWMARKET. Newmarket Newsagency.

292 Racecourse Rd NOBLE PARK. Noble Park Newsagency.

422 Douglas St. NORTHCOTE. Newsplaza Newsagency, Northcote Plaza.

NORTHCOTE. Northcote Newsagency.

335 High St. NORTH MELBOURNE. Ledermans Newsagency. 234-244 Macauley Rd. NUNAWADING. Mountainview Newsagency. 293A Springfield Rd. PARKDALE. Parkdale Newsagency. 238 Como Pde. West.

PASCOE VALE SOUTH. Coonans Hill Newsagency. 67 Coonans Rd. PASCOE VALE SOUTH. Paper N Post.

372-380 Bell St. PRESTON. Preston N’agency. 377 High St. PRESTON. Preston Town Hall Newsagency. 247-249 Murray Rd. PRINCES HILL. Princes Hill Newsagency.

607 Lygon St RESERVOIR. Broadway Newsagency.

279 Broadway.

RICHMOND. Swan St Newsagency. 108 Swan St. RICHMOND. Vernons Newsagency. 308A Bridge Rd. RINGWOOD EAST. Ringwood East Newsagency. 52 Railway Ave. RINGWOOD NORTH. North Ringwood Newsagency. 182 Warrandyte Rd. ROBINVALE. Robinvale Newsagency. 67 Perrin St. ROSANNA. Rosanna Newsagency. 135 Lower Plenty Rd. ROSEBUD. Rosebud Newsagency. 1083 Point Nepean Rd. RYE. Rye Newsagency. 2371 Pt Nepean Rd. SALE. Sale Newsagency. 310 Raymond St. SANDRINGHAM. Sandringham Newsagency. Shop 5, 18-34 Station St. SCORESBY. Scoresby Newsagency. 14 Darryl St. SEAFORD. Seaford Newsagency. 124 Nepean Hwy. SEBASTOPOL. Sebastopol Newsagency.

Shop 3, 'Safeway Complex'.

SHEPPARTON. Goulburn Valley Newsagency. 314 Wyndham St. SHEPPARTON. Lovell Newsagency. 246 Wyndham St. SOMERVILLE. Somerville Newsagency.

Shop 24, Plaza, Eramosa Rd. SOUTH MELBOURNE. Clarendon Newsagency. 9 Thistlewaite St. SPRINGVALE. Springvale Newsagency.

321 Springvale Rd. STRATHFIELDSAYE. Strathfieldsaye News and Lotto. Shop 5, 939 Wellington St. TARWIN LOWER. Tarwin Lower Newsagency. 45 River Drive.

TATURA. Tatura N’agency. 138 Hogan St. TEMPLESTOWE. Macedon News and Lotto.

THORNBURY. Normanby News and Lotto. 25 Macedon Rd TOORADIN. Tooradin Newsagency. 92 South Gippsland Hwy. TOORAK. Toorak Village Newsagency.

479 Toorak Rd. TORQUAY. Torquay Newsagency. 20 Gilbert St. TRARALGON. Seymour Street Newsagency. 83 Seymour St. TRARALGON. Traralgon News and Lotto.

51-53 Franklin St. TULLAMARINE. Tullamarine Newsagency. 2/191 Melrose Dr. VERMONT. Vermont Authorised Newsagency. 600 Canterbury Rd. VERMONT SOUTH. Vermont South Newsagency. Shop 14, 495 Burwood Hwy. WANTIRNA SOUTH. Wantirna South Newsagency. 223 Stud Rd. WARRAGUL. Warragul Newsagency. 43 Victoria St. WARRNAMBOOL. Reinheimers Newsagency. 145 Koroit St. WATSONIA. Watsonia Newsagency.

Watsonia Rd. WHEELERS HILL. Wheelers Hill Newsagency.

WODONGA. Mahon's Newsagency. 168 High St. YARRAVILLE. Yarraville Newsagency. 59 Anderson St.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 13

Observer Magazine

Stateside with Gavin Wood in West Hollywood

75 years of WeHo service ■ Hi everyone, from my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.

Out and About

Inspiration to everyone

469 killed so far

■ It was 12 months ago when Managing Director of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites in West Hollywood, Alan Johnson, and his General Manager, William Karpiak, received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Hospitality Award from the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce at the 34th Annual Creative Business Awards.

This year they salute the General Manager of the Sunset Marquis, Rod Gruendyke, making 75 years of hospitality between the two properties in West Hollywood.

Mr. Gruendyke is being celebrated with the 2018 Legacy Award. All three gentlemen have been true friends and also an inspiration to everyone in the hospitality industry.

Breaking Bad big screen ■ Breaking Bad may have had its finale in 2013, but Variety has confirmed that series creator Vince Gilligan is working on a new film with ties to the beloved series.

Gilligan is working on a two-hour film, though whether it's destined for multiplexes or television is unclear.

Details are sparse, with no information on what shape the movie would take a prequel like Better Call Saul or something else or whether any of Breaking Bad's stars will return.

The Albuquerque Journal includes a logline stating the film "tracks the escape of a kidnapped man and his quest for freedom”.

● Pictured at the 35th Annual Creative Business Awards are Ramada General Manager, William Karpiak, with Legacy Award winner, Rod Gruendyke and Ramada Managing Director, Alan Johnson.

Lady Gaga gives back ■ Lady Gaga is putting her heart and soul into helping people driven from their homes by the California wildfires and she delivered an emotional speech to evacuees.

Gaga, who herself was forced to flee her Malibu home, showed up Sunday evening at a Red Cross shelter at Pacific Palisades High School, and told the displaced crowd, "I extend my love ...

I know we do not know each other, but I love you. This is an emergency, but you are not alone."

She encouraged everyone to take advantage of mental health counselors on the premises, and to "share your stories and talk to each other during this time."

Gaga's home has reportedly survived the flames, so far, but it's obvious the danger of the Woolsey fire is taking an emotional toll.

She spent about 90 minutes at the shelter. She took photos, handed out gift cards, and even sang to a 98-year-old woman who'd been evacuated.

As Gaga put it, "Let's keep the faith, together."

There's no doubt her time and words were greatly appreciated, and effective in lifting spirits.

Charge card fraud ■ Employees of the US. Department of Housing and Urban Development, armed with government charge cards, made "at least 950" "unauthorised, unsupported, or ineligible purchases" in fiscal 2017, according to a report by the department's inspector general.

These included a $400 charge at "an adult entertainment gentlemen's club" and a $282 "unauthorized ATM withdrawal" followed by an $849 "unauthorised charge" at a Las Vegas casino hotel.

"Housing and Urban Development's travel cards were used for unauthorisd, unsupported, or ineligible purchases in at least 950 instances totaling more than $95,000," said the Inspector General's report.

The Inspector General estimated the overall number of unauthorised, unsupported and ineligible purchases by examining a selected sampling of actual purchases.

Bill Gates’s new project ■ Bill Gates believes the world needs better toilets. Specifically, toilets that improve hygiene and don't have to connect to sewerage systems at all and can break down human waste into fertiliser.

Mr Gates held the Reinvented Toilet Expo in Beijing, a chance for companies to showcase their takes on the simple bathroom fixture.

Companies showed toilets that could separate urine from other waste for more efficient treatment, that recycled water for hand washing and that sported solar roofs.

It's no laughing matter. About 4.5 billion people more than half the world's population lives without access to safe sanitation.

Globally, Mr Gates told attendees, unsafe sanitation costs an estimated $223 billion a year in the form of higher health costs and lost productivity and wages.

■ Over a recent weekend, 43 people were shot in Chicago and five of the victims died, making it one of the most violent weekends in the Windy City this year.

Since the beginning of the year, 2530 people have been shot in Chicago, according to the shooting and homicide data maintained by the Chicago Tribune.

Further data, collected by the Chicago Sun-Times, shows there have been 469 homicides in Chicago so far this year, 408 of those deaths resulted from shootings. Stabbing caused another 30 homicides and another 31 deaths were caused by "another type" of violence.

Despite these crimes, a new poll shows that nearly half (45 per cent) of Chicagoans say gun violence is "not a problem."

Fifty-one percent say it is "a problem”.

US officers at work

GavinWood

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

● Lady Gaga

Americans oppose guns

1000 jobs cut by Govt.

■ A recent survey shows that a strong majority of Americans, 57 per cent, oppose banning semi-automatic guns, specifically semiautomatic rifles that the media often label "assault rifles." A semiautomatic rifle (or pistol) is a gun that fires one bullet each time the trigger is pulled.

In the poll, Gallup asked, "Are you for or against a law which would make it illegal to manufacture, sell or possess semi-automatic guns, known as assault rifles?"

Forty percent said they were "for" a ban and 57 per cent said they were "against" a ban.

■ The number of people employed by the federal government declined by 1000 in September, according to data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Since President Donald Trump took office, federal employment has declined by 16,000.

In December 2016, the month before Trump's inauguration, there were 2,810,000 people employed by the federal government, according to the BLS data.

By August 2018, that had declined by 15,000 to 2,795,000. In September, it declined another 1,000 to 2,794,000.

www.gavinwood.us

■ Only around one-third of a police officer's time is spent actually enforcing criminal law; most of the work of a police officer involves peacekeeping, order maintenance, and problem solving.

American law enforcement agents only solve around 21per cent of all reported crime.

Although law enforcement agencies were organized in England in the 13th century, the first modern police officers operated in London starting in 1829.

American police officers are organised locally, whereas police forces in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America are nationally organised.

The United States has roughly 18,000 separate law enforcement agencies, all of which operate largely independent of each other.

In the American colonies, law enforcement initially took the form of "the watch”, a group of adult males that patrolled cities on the lookout for fires and crimes.

Originally, all male citizens of a city were expected to take their turn as watchmen, but gradually it became a paid professional position.

During the early years of America, many southern states created "slave patrols" meant to prevent slave revolts and catch runaways.

The Charleston slave patrol employed around 100 officers far more officers than any northern police force of the time.

Have a chat with Jennifer

■ 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.

We 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 and The Local Paper.

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

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

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au www.LocalPaper.com.au

Victorian History

Sister Olive won the 1921 Melbourne Cup ■ Sister Olive was a three-year-old filly when she won the Melbourne Cup back in 1921.

Jer jockey Teddy O’Sullivan guided her home in a time of three minutes 27.75 seconds.

Nine years later the Cup was won in exactly the same time, the horse – Phar Lap. This Saturday (Dec. 15) sees the running of the Sister Olive Handicap, over 3000 metres, at the Yea Picnic Races.

The local connection is that Sister Olive was trained at Molesworth.

Sister Olive was originally trained

by Jack Williams to be a sprinter, but it wasn’t until jockey O’Sullivan took her out for a test that her true potential was discovered.

After running her, O’Sullivan informed Williams he was training Sister Olive for the wrong races. According to O’Sullivan she was a natural stayer.

At the 1921 Melbourne Cup, Sister Olive began the race approaching the leading group of three and O’Sullivan nursed her through all the way.

As the 16/1 chance raced around the bend for home, O’Sullivan urged the filly along to gain three lengths over Amazonia and win the race.

She raced home in a time of three minutes 27.75 seconds.

The Argus newspaper reported on the betting on the 1921 Melbourne Cup with the headline: ‘Olive! You Beauty!’

“There were several score of men on the course who were delighted with Sister Olive's victory.

“They were the bookmakers.

“Not for a number of years had such a long-priced competitor won the Melbourne Cup, and they celebrated accordingly, by cheering-, yelling, throwing their hats, in the air. and waltzing around with one another on the. grass. .

“During the race, however, they were the most unconcerned Iot of people on the c ourse. A win for any one of the favourites meant paying out a/small fortune.”

The Argus had described the lead-up to the race: “It was a sweltering day; a day of low visibility, and drops of rain were on the footpaths as early as 8 o'clock in the morning.

“From that moment it was known that the day was not to be a riot of colour. The more courageous of the women wore their favour ite colours, but they had a second string in a raincoat.

“But alas! In many ca ses the ust coat, light, and in harmony with the costume, had to serve as a raincoat.

“It was a flimsy creation which held the dust, and the dust held tbe moisture.

“At ten minutes to 2 o'clock there was a large quantity of dust at Flemington apart from that which was on tlie ground. And then the rain came, not heavily, but in large drops which might have boen, dodged if people .had not rushed for cover.”

Press correspondent ‘Booklyn’ wrote: “People flock to Flemington on the first Tuesday in November each year to see the Melbourne Cup decided.

“The event is recognised as Australia's most important race and usually the pick of the horses likely to run out a strenuous two miles compete.

“This year the race was still looked upon as a great event, but

● Sister Olive wins the Melbourne Cup in 1921.

“Weight will tell, but every one with the instincts of a sportsman hopes that the champion will have a good passage and will win or fail on his merits.

“His opponents, a good looking, well trained lot of thoroughbreds, have made theirway to the post. The suspense is almost unbearable.

“One turns to look at the scene.

Every seat in the grandstands and other places of vantage are occupied.

“The spacious lawns are black with people. What a densely packed crowd. Among them are several poor, helpless creatures in their cots.

“Yes, there was a war, but to-day ● The Argus (Nov. 2, 1921) reported the Cup win. we must forget such things. After all, added interest was given to it because “Different in colour, but in mark- the great clash of arms twas only a a Western Australian-owned horse, ings somewhat similar to Carbine, passing cog in the wheel of time.

Eurythmic, had been set the task of maybe a heritage from his great rela“The weather is anxiously equalling Carbine's record estab- tive, Eurythmic leisurely makes his watched, for it is cloudy, close and lished 31 years ago, and among the way down the straight, his massive warm. Just before the third race some great throng were many people from shoulders showing tremendous light rain falls and a few minutes prior the Western State. power. to the Cup there is a clap of thunder “Like thousands of others they “Then McLachlan wheels him and up go umbrellas. had worked themselves up to an un- round and in a second wonderful ac“But it is nothing. The roar in the usual state of excitement and expec- tion is brought into play. vicinity of the betting ring has almost tation. “Could it be possible that “There is the movement of the ceased, and a strange quietness another greyhound on a bigger scale. It is a reigns.

Carbine had arisen? Would Euryth- free and easy gait and the well de“All eyes are turned in the one mic perform the almost impossible veloped muscles work with fascinat- direction, watching the riders of 25 task? ing regularity. horses lining them up at the barrier.

“The doings of Carbine and Eu“He quickens his pace, and a Where is the favourite? There he is, rythmic have been discussed in ev- great driving force comes into ac- about seventh from the rails. He is ery detail, and from all aspects the tion as if some unseen piston rod is skittish. general consensus of opinion was propelling the whole.

“Up go the ropes and at the same that if Eurythmic succeeded he “He strides along with apparently instant there is a cry, "Eurythmic is would not be Carbine's equal but his a featherweight in the saddle, but away badly." And so he was. superior. before the end of the journey those “Passing the stand, however, he “A whisper goes round the course 145 pounds will not be such a light was in a much better position than that Dempsey, who has ridden Eu- burden. he was last year, when he was half rythmic in all his races since the “Good to look upon and fit to race turned round when the barrier rose. champion left Western Australia, for a kingdom this is the Eurythmic “Racing in the middle of the field would be.unable to ride. What a pity! who came into the racing world and he is still nicely placed. Six furlongs Dempsey knew all the peculiarities proved himself a peer among his from home lightly weighted horses of the horse. kind. have, and are still, making the tasks “W. H. McLachlan, who has rid “This is the great horse that many of the heavy weights more difficult. den in many Melbourne Cups, and times has taught a large section of “At the home turn Eurythmic is has won three of them, is to have the the com munity of the Common- within striking distance, going well mount. wealth, just as the boys from the with in himself, and looking all over “The.time draws near. Never has Swan River and our footballers did a winner, for we all know his great a racecourse crowd so anxiously recently, and ·just as others will pace. Some thing has happened. awaited a Melbourne Cup. surely do, that Western Australia "The favourite; look at him!"

“Here comes the champion, for must be reckoned with in sport and “In a second he has dropped out if he wins or loses he is Australia's pastimes as in other things. of the race, and the well bred filly champion to-day.

“Once before in 1905 a Western Sister Olive has won, the Cup for “The genuine cheers as the hand- Australian owned horse won the Mr. F. W. Norman, one of the most some chestnut steps on to the track Melbourne Cup, but he did not have popular members of the Victorian are good to listen to, and one realises the burden of 10.5 on his back.

Club.

“One wonders what his feelings are to win the Melbourne Cup. “Yes, Mr. Norman is a supremely happy man.”

Writer ‘Cardigan’ in The Arrow noted: “Sister Olive's Melbourne Cup win only goes to again demonstrate that a fair staying three-yearold is a hard nut to crack in the big Flemington race.

“They have the pull in the weights over the older horses, and it is marvellous what difference a few pounds makes at the end of a fast run two miles race.

“Strictly on form it was hard to stand Sister Olive, as although I selected her in these columns last week as the best of the outsiders, I could not by any stretch of imagination see her beating Purser, and that was the general opinion of those that saw the Caulfield Cup. “In that race Purser finished better than her, and was meeting her on much the same terms. However, she has evidently improved with racing, and is a genuine stayer, whereas Purser found the last furlong too much.

“To look at Sister Olive is a very nice mare, being a chestnut somewhat after the same color as Richmond Main, and has a white face and hind leg.

“She is not massive, but is a medium-sized filly, thickly set, and next year should be a very fine mare.

“Her owner, Mr. Fred Norman, is an enthusiastic owner, breeder and punter, and his success would be very popular amongst Melbourne sporting men, as he is a prominent member of the Victorian Club, and takes an active interest in the affairs of that body.

“He bred Sister Olive himself, and owns her sire, Red Dennis, whom racegoers in Sydney will remember as being a member of W. Kelso's team not many years ago.”

Bluebloods.com says: “Red Dennis was one of so many imported horses to race in Australia during and immediately after the Great War and in a brief career on Australian tracks the son of the very good sire (but poor racehorse), Tredennis, won the valuable Australia Day Cup at the old Williamstown course.

“The filly’s dam, Jubilee Queen, was equine royalty, being by the excellent stallion Positano (the sire of four Melbourne Cup winners) from the imported mare Tragedy Queen, the dam of the 1910 Cup winner and champion sire, Comedy King.

“When retired to stud Sister Olive would continue the female line excellence as the dam of the star miler Manolive and fourth dam of the Hall of Famer Tobin Bronze.”

The Age newspaper reported: “Residents of Yea were delighted when the news came to hand that the locally bred mare Sister Olive had won the Melbourne Cup. “Red Dennis, her sire, for several years has been on Mr. Norman’s Yea property, the Clarendon Stud Farm, were greatly interested in Sister Olive's prospects.”

Mr Norman had raced a number of horses with the prefix “Sister’, believing it was lucky for him. These included Sister Flo and Sister Patience. ‘Olive’ was named after his daughter Olive.

The Standard said: “Nearly all the Alexandra "punters" had their money on the "also rans”.”

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 15

Observer Magazine

Photos from the past: Yarra Glen

● Yarra Glen. 1923.

● Yarra Flats Hotel, between Melbourne and Woods Point. 1936.

● Store at the Yarra Flats. 1888. Photo: Fred Kruger.

● Rustic bridge at the Yarra Flats. Circa 1880. Photo: Fred Kruger

● Deer shooting on the Yarra Flats. 1890. Engraving: David Syme

● ‘Flooding in Healesville, 1934’. Photo: State Rivers Commission

● Yarra Glen. 1911.

● Grand Hotel, Yarra Glen. 1949, Photo: Colin Caldwell

Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Observer Magazine

■ I can clearly remember seeing the film Rock Around the Clock at the Majestic Theatre in Flinders St,Melbourne, in 1956.

During the film the teenage audience were dancing in the isles to the new sound of ‘Rock and Roll’.

I remember talking to my mate Peter Robinson on the way out, Peter was so inspired he went on to learn to play bass and sang with The Strangers and also The Seekers.

That was a momentous film - we were introduced to Bill Haley, Freddie Bell and the Bellboys and a sensational afro-American singing group The Platters.

I couldn't wait to buy their latest records and hear the brand new songs.

The Platters were an American singing group originally formed by Herb Reed in 1953 but went through several changes to the line-up before becoming famous.

The title for the group came from records or ‘Platters’ as many of the disc-jockeys called them.

They were signed to Federal Records and a management contract with songwriter Buck Ram. Only You, their first hit record for Mercury Records in July 1955 was originally written

by Buck Ram for The Inkspots.

Their second hit song, The Great Pretender, is now regarded as one of the great classic rock classics of all time.

The members of the group in 1956 were Herb

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Whatever Happened To ...

The Platters

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

Reed, Tony Williams, David Lynch, Paul Robi and Zola Taylor. In the film Rock Around The Clock they performed both Only You and The Great Pretender.

In the same year they appeared in their second film The Girl Can't Help It and performed You'll Never Know.

In 1957 The Platters were inAustralia in the Lee Gordon Big Show and toured withBill Haley, LaVerne Baker, Freddie Bell and The Bellboys and Big Joe Turner.

I notice there is a mint condition program from that show for sale on the internet and they want $400 for it.

In the years that followed The Platters had more hit songs with My Prayer, Twilight Time,

● The Platters Harbour Lights and a wonderful version of 200 concerts each year. Herb was the last surSmoke Gets in your Eyes. The group had 40 hit viving member of the original Platters until he singles on the American Billboard charts be- passed away in 2012. The Platters were intween 1955 and 1967 including four number one ducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the Vocal Hall of Fame in 1998. hits.

Kevin Trask The Platters were the first Rock and Roll Kevin can be heard on 3AW group to have an album in the top 10 charts.

Over the years The Platters appeared in 27 The Time Tunnel - on Nightline - Thursdays at 10pm with Philip Brady and films mainly in the soundtracks.

Simon Owens.

The members of the group continued to change over the years and as they left they Mike Till Midnight - Saturday nights at 9pm with Mike Brady and Chris Ryan. formed their own Platters group.

And on 96.5 FM At one stage there were four Platters groups That's Entertainment - Sundays performing throughout the world. at 12 Noon for two hours.

Herb Reed had his own group and did about

Mini's meagre mileage over many years OK. With John O’Keefe Rod Stewart returns

● Rod Stewart ■ After an absence of 15 years or more, Rod Stewart has announced he will tour Australia next year, sometime in the July to November period.

Frontier Touring are promoting the tour and tickets are already on sale at the usual outlets.

Pay day for Judge Judy

■ Judy Sheindlin is the world’s highest paid TV star. Judy who ? She is also known by her stage name of Judge Judy, seen locally on the Ten Network.

Her net worth is $ 400 million, including $ 147 million she makes from her TV show and sale of 5200 episodes of Judge Judy, plus on going eps.

Her net worth ranks her the 48 th richest self-made woman in USA.

● This little red Austin Mini’s one lady owner clocked up just 6500 kilometres ■ Alittle red 1989Austin Mini whose ceived was a boxy little auto into which one lady owner had driven a mere four people could be literally shoe6500km in her whole 29 years of horned, and which had a transverse ownership, equating to a miniscule onengine and gearbox that allowed for a revolutionary, fuel-efficient frontaverage four kilometres a week, has just fetched an amazing 13,000 pounds wheel drive – something drivers around the world instantly took to, and Sterling (AU$22,654) at auction in the which is still as in-vogue today as all UK. those decades ago.

Amazing, because that lady had And the little red 1989 Austin Mini paid a touch over just 1900 pounds that’s just sold in the UK with that ex(A$3361) when she’d bought her little traordinarily low 6500 kilometres afMini new all those years before. ter 29 years on the road (meaning an The concept of the Mini actually average use of just 222km a year, or a goes back a further 30-odd years betouch over a mere four kilometres a fore that to 1957 when head of the week,) still had its original sale conMorris Car Company, Sir Leonard tract in the glovebox, original handLord foreshadowed a place for a book and keys and supplier company’s small, fuel-efficient and budget-priced windscreen sticker, and the original family car in view of a looming world 1980’s style registration disc holder. fuel crisis, and tasked his top engiAnd while he’s paid around a third neer, Alec Issigonis with heading up a more than the 10,000 pounds the car team of designers to bring about just was expected to sell for at auction, its such a vehicle. new owner says he bought it both to with David Ellis enjoy driving, and as an investment.

Amongst ideas that team con-

Struth

Water on the brain

■ Despite knowing 3AW presenter/Carols singer Denis Walter for 40 years, or more, fellow broadcaster Mike Brady referred to hs friend as Denis Waters in a voice - over promoting a big time Carols gig in Geelong.

To make matters worse the station let the incorrect announcement go to air.

Mike , your homework is to write out 100 times ‘Water , water, everywhere – there’s only one Denis Walter’.

Stocking filler

■ What a year it’s been for Grant Denyer. His latest project is to release a single titled Driving Home for Christmas –it’s in music stores now with proceeds going to Rural Aid. Great idea for a stocking filler.

Bets on vets

■ Back in 2008 Ten launched Bondi Vet, and at same time launched the career of Dr Chris Brown. Bondi Vet became a ratings winner, was sold overseas and Dr Chris bobbed up as Ten talent on other shows.

Now Nine has commissioned an identical program but no Dr Chris, yet a lookalike is part of the cast. Nine has re-named their version Coast to Coast and will be on air in New Year.

- John O’Keefe

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 17

Antiques and Collectables

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Santorini on Mudjimba Beachfront accommodation on the Sunshine Coast 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION IN MUDJIMBA, SUNSHINE COAST, QUEENSLAND This four star resort offers you the opportunity to get away from it all. You can do as much or as little as your heart desires. Come and experience Mudjimba, the way the beach used to be.

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This Month’s Sale Item is a ready-to-hang Limited Edition Art Print of Melbourne in 1882.

This is a stunning Melbourne aerial view showing the historical development of the 1880's era. It is a beautiful reminder of our wonderful past and development.

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Homemaker

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Best Places

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Port Melbourne

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M & A McCormack FUNERALS Also trading as Bamfords F.S. Murrindindi 1800 080 909 Family owned and operated

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Observer Classic Books

Bleak House - by Charles Dickens He seemed to be working hard, with the perspiration standing on his forehead, and had a piece of chalk by him, with which, as he put each separate package or bundle down, he made a crooked mark on the panelling of the wall.

Richard and Ada, and Miss Jellyby, and the little old lady had gone by him, and I was going when he touched me on the arm to stay me, and chalked the letter J upon the wall — in a very curious manner, beginning with the end of the letter and shaping it backward. It was a capital letter, not a printed one, but just such a letter as any clerk in Messrs. Kenge and Carboy’s office would have made.

“Can you read it?” he asked me with a keen glance.

“Surely,” said I. “It’s very plain.”

“What is it?”

“J.” With another glance at me, and a glance at the door, he rubbed it out and turned an “a” in its place (not a capital letter this time), and said, “What’s that?”

I told him. He then rubbed that out and turned the letter “r,” and asked me the same question.

He went on quickly until he had formed in the same curious manner, beginning at the ends and bottoms of the letters, the word Jarndyce, without once leaving two letters on the wall together.

“What does that spell?” he asked me.

When I told him, he laughed. In the same odd way, yet with the same rapidity, he then produced singly, and rubbed out singly, the letters forming the words Bleak House. These, in some astonishment, I also read; and he laughed again.

“Hi!” said the old man, laying aside the chalk.

“I have a turn for copying from memory, you see, miss, though I can neither read nor write.”

He looked so disagreeable and his cat looked so wickedly at me, as if I were a blood-relation of the birds upstairs, that I was quite relieved by Richard’s appearing at the door and saying, “Miss Summerson, I hope you are not bargaining for the sale of your hair. Don’t be tempted.

Three sacks below are quite enough for Mr. Krook!”

I lost no time in wishing Mr. Krook good morning and joining my friends outside, where we parted with the little old lady, who gave us her blessing with great ceremony and renewed her assurance of yesterday in reference to her intention of settling estates on Ada and me. Before we finally turned out of those lanes, we looked back and saw Mr. Krook standing at his shop-door, in his spectacles, looking after us, with his cat upon his shoulder, and her tail sticking up on one side of his hairy cap like a tall feather.

“Quite an adventure for a morning in London!” said Richard with a sigh. “Ah, cousin, cousin, it’s a weary word this Chancery!”

“It is to me, and has been ever since I can remember,” returned Ada. “I am grieved that I should be the enemy — -as I suppose I am — of a great number of relations and others, and that they should be my enemies — as I suppose they are — and that we should all be ruining one another without knowing how or why and be in constant doubt and discord all our lives. It seems very strange, as there must be right somewhere, that an honest judge in real earnest has not been able to find out through all these years where it is.”

“Ah, cousin!” said Richard. “Strange, indeed!

All this wasteful, wanton chess-playing IS very strange. To see that composed court yesterday jogging on so serenely and to think of the wretchedness of the pieces on the board gave me the headache and the heartache both together. My head ached with wondering how it happened, if men were neither fools nor rascals; and my heart ached to think they could possibly be either. But at all events, Ada — I may call you Ada?” “Of course you may, cousin Richard.”

“At all events, Chancery will work none of its bad influences on US. We have happily been brought together, thanks to our good kinsman, and it can’t divide us now!”

“Never, I hope, cousin Richard!” said Ada gently.

Miss Jellyby gave my arm a squeeze and me a very significant look. I smiled in return, and we made the rest of the way back very pleasantly.

the waggoner delivered to each of us respectively, reading the name aloud first. In answer to Richard’s inquiry from whom they came, he briefly answered, “Master, sir, if you please”; and putting on his hat again (which was like a soft bowl), cracked his whip, re-awakened his music, and went melodiously away.

“Is that Mr. Jarndyce’s waggon?” said Richard, calling to our post-boy.

“Yes, sir,” he replied. “Going to London.”

We opened the notes. Each was a counterpart of the other and contained these words in a solid, plain hand.

“I look forward, my dear, to our meeting easily and without constraint on either side. I therefore have to propose that we meet as old friends and take the past for granted. It will be a relief to you possibly, and to me certainly, and so my love to you.

John Jarndyce” I had perhaps less reason to be surprised than either of my companions, having never yet enjoyed an opportunity of thanking one who had been my benefactor and sole earthly dependence through so many years. I had not considered how I could thank him, my gratitude lying too deep in my heart for that; but I now began to consider how I could meet him without thanking him, and felt it would be very difficult indeed.

The notes revived in Richard and Ada a general impression that they both had, without quite knowing how they came by it, that their cousin Jarndyce could never bear acknowledgments for any kindness he performed and that sooner than receive any he would resort to the most singular expedients and evasions or would even run away. Ada dimly remembered to have heard her mother tell, when she was a very little child, that he had once done her an act of uncommon generosity and that on her going to his house to thank him, he happened to see her through a window coming to the door, and immediately escaped by the back gate, and was not heard of for three months. This discourse led to a great deal more on the same theme, and indeed it lasted us all day, and we talked of scarcely anything else. If we did by any chance diverge into another subject, we soon returned to this, and wondered what the house would be like, and when we should get there, and whether we should see Mr. Jarndyce as soon as we arrived or after a delay, and what he would say to us, and what we should say to him. All of which we wonCharles Dickens dered about, over and over again.

In half an hour after our arrival, Mrs. Jellyby way through the sunshine and the fresh air, won- The roads were very heavy for the horses, but appeared; and in the course of an hour the vari- dering more and more at the extent of the streets, the pathway was generally good, so we alighted ous things necessary for breakfast straggled one the brilliancy of the shops, the great traffic, and and walked up all the hills, and liked it so well by one into the dining-room. I do not doubt that the crowds of people whom the pleasanter that we prolonged our walk on the level ground Mrs. Jellyby had gone to bed and got up in the weather seemed to have brought out like many- when we got to the top. At Barnet there were usual manner, but she presented no appearance coloured flowers. By and by we began to leave other horses waiting for us, but as they had only of having changed her dress. She was greatly the wonderful city and to proceed through sub- just been fed, we had to wait for them too, and occupied during breakfast, for the morning’s post urbs which, of themselves, would have made a got a long fresh walk over a common and an old brought a heavy correspondence relative to pretty large town in my eyes; and at last we got battle-field before the carriage came up. These Borrioboola–Gha, which would occasion her into a real country road again, with windmills, delays so protracted the journey that the short (she said) to pass a busy day. The children rick-yards, milestones, farmers’ waggons, day was spent and the long night had closed in tumbled about, and notched memoranda of their scents of old hay, swinging signs, and horse before we came to St. Albans, near to which accidents in their legs, which were perfect little troughs: trees, fields, and hedge-rows. It was town Bleak House was, we knew. calendars of distress; and Peepy was lost for an delightful to see the green landscape before us By that time we were so anxious and nervous hour and a half, and brought home from Newgate and the immense metropolis behind; and when that even Richard confessed, as we rattled over market by a policeman. The equable manner in a waggon with a train of beautiful horses, fur- the stones of the old street, to feeling an irratiowhich Mrs. Jellyby sustained both his absence nished with red trappings and clear-sounding nal desire to drive back again. As to Ada and and his restoration to the family circle surprised bells, came by us with its music, I believe we me, whom he had wrapped up with great care, us all. could all three have sung to the bells, so cheer- the night being sharp and frosty, we trembled She was by that time perseveringly dictating to ful were the influences around. from head to foot. When we turned out of the Caddy, and Caddy was fast relapsing into the “The whole road has been reminding me of my town, round a corner, and Richard told us that inky condition in which we had found her. At name-sake Whittington,” said Richard, “and that the post-boy, who had for a long time sympaone o’clock an open carriage arrived for us, waggon is the finishing touch. Halloa! What’s thized with our heightened expectation, was lookand a cart for our luggage. Mrs. Jellyby charged the matter?” ing back and nodding, we both stood up in the us with many remembrances to her good friend We had stopped, and the waggon had stopped carriage (Richard holding Ada lest she should Mr. Jarndyce; Caddy left her desk to see us too. Its music changed as the horses came to a be jolted down) and gazed round upon the open depart, kissed me in the passage, and stood bit- stand, and subsided to a gentle tinkling, except country and the starlight night for our destinaing her pen and sobbing on the steps; Peepy, I when a horse tossed his head or shook himself tion. There was a light sparkling on the top of a am happy to say, was asleep and spared the and sprinkled off a little shower of bell-ringing. hill before us, and the driver, pointing to it with pain of separation (I was not without misgiv- “Our postilion is looking after the waggoner,” his whip and crying, “That’s Bleak House!” put ings that he had gone to Newgate market in said Richard, “and the waggoner is coming back his horses into a canter and took us forward at search of me); and all the other children got up after us. Good day, friend!” The waggoner was such a rate, uphill though it was, that the wheels behind the barouche and fell off, and we saw at our coach-door. “Why, here’s an extraordi- sent the road drift flying about our heads like them, with great concern, scattered over the nary thing!” added Richard, looking closely at spray from a water-mill. Presently we lost the surface of Thavies Inn as we rolled out of its the man. “He has got your name, Ada, in his light, presently saw it, presently lost it, presently precincts. hat!” saw it, and turned into an avenue of trees and Chapter VI— Quite at Home He had all our names in his hat. Tucked within cantered up towards where it was beaming The day had brightened very much, and still the band were three small notes — one ad- brightly. It was in a window of what seemed to brightened as we went westward. We went our dressed to Ada, one to Richard, one to me. These Continued on Page 31

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From Page 29 be an old-fashioned house with three peaks in the roof in front and a circular sweep leading to the porch. A bell was rung as we drew up, and amidst the sound of its deep voice in the still air, and the distant barking of some dogs, and a gush of light from the opened door, and the smoking and steaming of the heated horses, and the quickened beating of our own hearts, we alighted in no inconsiderable confusion.

“Ada, my love, Esther, my dear, you are welcome. I rejoice to see you! Rick, if I had a hand to spare at present, I would give it you!”

The gentleman who said these words in a clear, bright, hospitable voice had one of his arms round Ada’s waist and the other round mine, and kissed us both in a fatherly way, and bore us across the hall into a ruddy little room, all in a glow with a blazing fire. Here he kissed us again, and opening his arms, made us sit down side by side on a sofa ready drawn out near the hearth. I felt that if we had been at all demonstrative, he would have run away in a moment.

“Now, Rick!” said he. “I have a hand at liberty.

A word in earnest is as good as a speech. I am heartily glad to see you. You are at home. Warm yourself!”

Richard shook him by both hands with an intuitive mixture of respect and frankness, and only saying (though with an earnestness that rather alarmed me, I was so afraid of Mr. Jarndyce’s suddenly disappearing), “You are very kind, sir!

We are very much obliged to you!” laid aside his hat and coat and came up to the fire.

“And how did you like the ride? And how did you like Mrs. Jellyby, my dear?” said Mr. Jarndyce to Ada. While Ada was speaking to him in reply, I glanced (I need not say with how much interest) at his face. It was a handsome, lively, quick face, full of change and motion; and his hair was a silvered iron-grey. I took him to be nearer sixty than fifty, but he was upright, hearty, and robust. From the moment of his first speaking to us his voice had connected itself with an association in my mind that I could not define; but now, all at once, a something sudden in his manner and a pleasant expression in his eyes recalled the gentleman in the stagecoach six years ago on the memorable day of my journey to Reading. I was certain it was he. I never was so frightened in my life as when I made the discovery, for he caught my glance, and appearing to read my thoughts, gave such a look at the door that I thought we had lost him.

However, I am happy to say he remained where he was, and asked me what I thought of Mrs. Jellyby.

“She exerts herself very much for Africa, sir,” I said.

“Nobly!” returned Mr. Jarndyce. “But you answer like Ada.” Whom I had not heard. “You all think something else, I see.”

“We rather thought,” said I, glancing at Richard and Ada, who entreated me with their eyes to speak, “that perhaps she was a little unmindful of her home.”

“Floored!” cried Mr. Jarndyce.

I was rather alarmed again.

“Well! I want to know your real thoughts, my dear. I may have sent you there on purpose.”

“We thought that, perhaps,” said I, hesitating, “it is right to begin with the obligations of home, sir; and that, perhaps, while those are overlooked and neglected, no other duties can possibly be substituted for them.”

“The little Jellybys,” said Richard, coming to my relief, “are really — I can’t help expressing myself strongly, sir — in a devil of a state.”

“She means well,” said Mr. Jarndyce hastily.

“The wind’s in the east.”

“It was in the north, sir, as we came down,” observed Richard.

“My dear Rick,” said Mr. Jarndyce, poking the fire, “I’ll take an oath it’s either in the east or going to be. I am always conscious of an uncomfortable sensation now and then when the wind is blowing in the east.”

“Rheumatism, sir?” said Richard.

“I dare say it is, Rick. I believe it is. And so the little Jell — I had my doubts about ’em — are in a — oh, Lord, yes, it’s easterly!” said Mr. Jarndyce.

He had taken two or three undecided turns up and down while uttering these broken sentences, retaining the poker in one hand and rubbing his hair with the other, with a good-natured vexation at once so whimsical and so lovable that I am sure we were more delighted with him than we could possibly have expressed in any words.

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 31

Observer Classic Books He gave an arm to Ada and an arm to me, and bidding Richard bring a candle, was leading the way out when he suddenly turned us all back again.

“Those little Jellybys. Couldn’t you — didn’t you — now, if it had rained sugar-plums, or three-cornered raspberry tarts, or anything of that sort!” said Mr. Jarndyce.

“Oh, cousin — ” Ada hastily began.

“Good, my pretty pet. I like cousin. Cousin John, perhaps, is better.”

“Then, cousin John — ” Ada laughingly began again.

“Ha, ha! Very good indeed!” said Mr. Jarndyce with great enjoyment. “Sounds uncommonly natural. Yes, my dear?”

“It did better than that. It rained Esther.”

“Aye?” said Mr. Jarndyce. “What did Esther do?”

“Why, cousin John,” said Ada, clasping her hands upon his arm and shaking her head at me across him — for I wanted her to be quiet — “Esther was their friend directly. Esther nursed them, coaxed them to sleep, washed and dressed them, told them stories, kept them quiet, bought them keepsakes” — My dear girl! I had only gone out with Peepy after he was found and given him a little, tiny horse! — “and, cousin John, she softened poor Caroline, the eldest one, so much and was so thoughtful for me and so amiable! No, no, I won’t be contradicted, Esther dear! You know, you know, it’s true!”

The warm-hearted darling leaned across her cousin John and kissed me, and then looking up in his face, boldly said, “At all events, cousin John, I WILL thank you for the companion you have given me.” I felt as if she challenged him to run away. But he didn’t.

“Where did you say the wind was, Rick?” asked Mr. Jarndyce.

“In the north as we came down, sir.”

“You are right. There’s no east in it. A mistake of mine. Come, girls, come and see your home!”

It was one of those delightfully irregular houses where you go up and down steps out of one room into another, and where you come upon more rooms when you think you have seen all there are, and where there is a bountiful provision of little halls and passages, and where you find still older cottage-rooms in unexpected places with lattice windows and green growth pressing through them. Mine, which we entered first, was of this kind, with an up-and-down roof that had more corners in it than I ever counted afterwards and a chimney (there was a wood fire on the hearth) paved all around with pure white tiles, in every one of which a bright miniature of the fire was blazing. Out of this room, you went down two steps into a charming little sitting-room looking down upon a flower-garden, which room was henceforth to belong to Ada and me. Out of this you went up three steps into Ada’s bedroom, which had a fine broad window commanding a beautiful view (we saw a great expanse of darkness lying underneath the stars), to which there was a hollow windowseat, in which, with a spring-lock, three dear Adas might have been lost at once. Out of this room you passed into a little gallery, with which the other best rooms (only two) communicated, and so, by a little staircase of shallow steps with a number of corner stairs in it, considering its length, down into the hall. But if instead of going out at Ada’s door you came back into my room, and went out at the door by which you had entered it, and turned up a few crooked steps that branched off in an unexpected manner from the stairs, you lost yourself in passages, with mangles in them, and three-cornered tables, and a native Hindu chair, which was also a sofa, a box, and a bedstead, and looked in every form something between a bamboo skeleton and a great bird-cage, and had been brought from India nobody knew by whom or when. From these you came on Richard’s room, which was part library, part sitting-room, part bedroom, and seemed indeed a comfortable compound of many rooms. Out of that you went straight, with a little interval of passage, to the plain room where Mr. Jarndyce slept, all the year round, with his window open, his bedstead without any furniture standing in the middle of the floor for more air, and his cold bath gaping for him in a smaller room adjoining. Out of that you came into another passage, where there were backstairs and where you could hear the horses being rubbed down outside the stable and being told to “Hold up” and “Get over,” as they slipped about very much on the uneven stones. Or you might, if you came out at another door (every

room had at least two doors), go straight down to the hall again by half-a-dozen steps and a low archway, wondering how you got back there or had ever got out of it.

The furniture, old-fashioned rather than old, like the house, was as pleasantly irregular. Ada’s sleeping-room was all flowers — in chintz and paper, in velvet, in needlework, in the brocade of two stiff courtly chairs which stood, each attended by a little page of a stool for greater state, on either side of the fire-place. Our sitting-room was green and had framed and glazed upon the walls numbers of surprising and surprised birds, staring out of pictures at a real trout in a case, as brown and shining as if it had been served with gravy; at the death of Captain Cook; and at the whole process of preparing tea in China, as depicted by Chinese artists. In my room there were oval engravings of the months — ladies haymaking in short waists and large hats tied under the chin, for June; smooth-legged noblemen pointing with cocked-hats to village steeples, for October. Half-length portraits in crayons abounded all through the house, but were so dispersed that I found the brother of a youthful officer of mine in the china-closet and the grey old age of my pretty young bride, with a flower in her bodice, in the breakfast-room. As substitutes, I had four angels, of Queen Anne’s reign, taking a complacent gentleman to heaven, in festoons, with some difficulty; and a composition in needlework representing fruit, a kettle, and an alphabet. All the movables, from the wardrobes to the chairs and tables, hangings, glasses, even to the pincushions and scentbottles on the dressing-tables, displayed the same quaint variety. They agreed in nothing but their perfect neatness, their display of the whitest linen, and their storing-up, wheresoever the existence of a drawer, small or large, rendered it possible, of quantities of rose-leaves and sweet lavender. Such, with its illuminated windows, softened here and there by shadows of curtains, shining out upon the starlight night; with its light, and warmth, and comfort; with its hospitable jingle, at a distance, of preparations for dinner; with the face of its generous master brightening everything we saw; and just wind enough without to sound a low accompaniment to everything we heard, were our first impressions of Bleak House.

“I am glad you like it,” said Mr. Jarndyce when he had brought us round again to Ada’s sittingroom. “It makes no pretensions, but it is a comfortable little place, I hope, and will be more so with such bright young looks in it. You have barely half an hour before dinner. There’s no one here but the finest creature upon earth — a child.”

“More children, Esther!” said Ada. “I don’t mean literally a child,” pursued Mr. Jarndyce; “not a child in years. He is grown up — he is at least as old as I am — but in simplicity, and freshness, and enthusiasm, and a fine guileless inaptitude for all worldly affairs, he is a perfect child.”

We felt that he must be very interesting.

“He knows Mrs. Jellyby,” said Mr. Jarndyce.

“He is a musical man, an amateur, but might have been a professional. He is an artist too, an amateur, but might have been a professional.

He is a man of attainments and of captivating manners. He has been unfortunate in his affairs, and unfortunate in his pursuits, and unfortunate in his family; but he don’t care — he’s a child!”

“Did you imply that he has children of his own, sir?” inquired Richard.

“Yes, Rick! Half-a-dozen. More! Nearer a dozen, I should think. But he has never looked after them. How could he? He wanted somebody to look after HIM. He is a child, you know!” said Mr. Jarndyce.

“And have the children looked after themselves at all, sir?” inquired Richard.

“Why, just as you may suppose,” said Mr. Jarndyce, his countenance suddenly falling. “It is said that the children of the very poor are not brought up, but dragged up. Harold Skimpole’s children have tumbled up somehow or other.

The wind’s getting round again, I am afraid. I feel it rather!”

Richard observed that the situation was exposed on a sharp night.

“It IS exposed,” said Mr. Jarndyce. “No doubt that’s the cause. Bleak House has an exposed sound. But you are coming my way. Come along!”

Our luggage having arrived and being all at hand, I was dressed in a few minutes and engaged in putting my worldly goods away when a

maid (not the one in attendance upon Ada, but another, whom I had not seen) brought a basket into my room with two bunches of keys in it, all labelled.

“For you, miss, if you please,” said she.

“For me?” said I. “The housekeeping keys, miss.”

I showed my surprise, for she added with some little surprise on her own part, “I was told to bring them as soon as you was alone, miss. Miss Summerson, if I don’t deceive myself?”

“Yes,” said I. “That is my name.”

“The large bunch is the housekeeping, and the little bunch is the cellars, miss. Any time you was pleased to appoint tomorrow morning, I was to show you the presses and things they belong to.”

I said I would be ready at half-past six, and after she was gone, stood looking at the basket, quite lost in the magnitude of my trust. Ada found me thus and had such a delightful confidence in me when I showed her the keys and told her about them that it would have been insensibility and ingratitude not to feel encouraged. I knew, to be sure, that it was the dear girl’s kindness, but I liked to be so pleasantly cheated.

When we went downstairs, we were presented to Mr. Skimpole, who was standing before the fire telling Richard how fond he used to be, in his school-time, of football. He was a little bright creature with a rather large head, but a delicate face and a sweet voice, and there was a perfect charm in him. All he said was so free from effort and spontaneous and was said with such a captivating gaiety that it was fascinating to hear him talk. Being of a more slender figure than Mr. Jarndyce and having a richer complexion, with browner hair, he looked younger. Indeed, he had more the appearance in all respects of a damaged young man than a well-preserved elderly one. There was an easy negligence in his manner and even in his dress (his hair carelessly disposed, and his neckkerchief loose and flowing, as I have seen artists paint their own portraits) which I could not separate from the idea of a romantic youth who had undergone some unique process of depreciation. It struck me as being not at all like the manner or appearance of a man who had advanced in life by the usual road of years, cares, and experiences.

I gathered from the conversation that Mr. Skimpole had been educated for the medical profession and had once lived, in his professional capacity, in the household of a German prince. He told us, however, that as he had always been a mere child in point of weights and measures and had never known anything about them (except that they disgusted him), he had never been able to prescribe with the requisite accuracy of detail. In fact, he said, he had no head for detail. And he told us, with great humour, that when he was wanted to bleed the prince or physic any of his people, he was generally found lying on his back in bed, reading the newspapers or making fancy-sketches in pencil, and couldn’t come. The prince, at last, objecting to this, “in which,” said Mr. Skimpole, in the frankest manner, “he was perfectly right,” the engagement terminated, and Mr. Skimpole having (as he added with delightful gaiety) “nothing to live upon but love, fell in love, and married, and surrounded himself with rosy cheeks.”

His good friend Jarndyce and some other of his good friends then helped him, in quicker or slower succession, to several openings in life, but to no purpose, for he must confess to two of the oldest infirmities in the world: one was that he had no idea of time, the other that he had no idea of money. In consequence of which he never kept an appointment, never could transact any business, and never knew the value of anything!

Well! So he had got on in life, and here he was!

He was very fond of reading the papers, very fond of making fancy-sketches with a pencil, very fond of nature, very fond of art. All he asked of society was to let him live. THAT wasn’t much. His wants were few. Give him the papers, conversation, music, mutton, coffee, landscape, fruit in the season, a few sheets of Bristolboard, and a little claret, and he asked no more.

He was a mere child in the world, but he didn’t cry for the moon. He said to the world, “Go your several ways in peace! Wear red coats, blue coats, lawn sleeves; put pens behind your ears, wear aprons; go after glory, holiness, commerce, trade, any object you prefer; only — let Harold Skimpole live!”

To Be Continued Next Issue

Page 32 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Quantity Surveyors

Property depreciation services Just Depreciation is always going the extra mile to help all our clients whenever we can. We have decided to answer some of our frequently asked questions to help give you some advice and get a better understanding of our services to save you time and money.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 33

Exceptional Lifestyle Property

This unique lifestyle property blends a serene private country lifestyle with the breathtaking views of the Gippsland Lakes. Situated on the Great Alpine Road, just five minutes from Bairnsdale, the property is accessed by a long tree-lined drive. The current owners have maintained the property at the highest level. The modern very open plan design is perfect for entertaining and takes advantage of the 300-degree vista with expansive terraces overlooking rolling lawns and sweeping views of the Gippsland Lakes to the south and snow-topped mountains to the west.

Immaculately maintained park-like gardens surround the home, providing a peaceful environment to spend time watching the sunset, and enjoying a wine by the campfire. There are six well-fenced paddocks, two dams, town water, solar power and on-the-grid power. Ample shedding with bathroom and toilet enclosed.

The residence is approx. 42 sq., four large bedrooms, main with walk-in robe and ensuite, office and large main room, open plan design for entertaining. Picture windows to enjoy the views of the Gippsland Lakes. There is also a country shack with kitchen, barbecue, and toilet faciolities for real country cook-outs.

Five minutes drive from Bairnsdale CBD, train station, easily accessible to buses, an abundance of cafes and restaurants, supermarkets, boutique shops, hospital, quality schools and the beauty of the Gippsland Lakes close by.

The only way to fully appreciate what this property has to offer is by “having a look yourself �

The owners will make you most welcome for any viewing. Contact: Kim Ashwood, 0421 868 147; Greg Carter, 0409 418 332.

$1.79 million

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Killingworth Hill Cafe & Whisky Bar 36 Killingworth Rd, Killingworth (Yea) Open 11am-8pm Friday-Sunday

The café and whisky bar wil be open each day from 11am between Wednesday December 26 and Sunday January 13 Today’s Menu Charcuterie Boards: Your choice of a meat platter, cheese platter, terrine platter or fish platter all accompanied with fresh home grown and made produce, for example, vegetables, gluten free pesto’s, chutneys, nuts, etc,

Fresh Gourmet Pizzas Fresh Homemade Pies Dessert: As per display cabinet Teas/Coffee: Assortment of Herbal Teas and classic Teas & Coffee, Cappuccino, Latte Mug Short/Long Black or Plunger Coffee

Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea We strive for excellence, we do not rest until our best is better We guarantee our products 100%.

If unsatisfactory, please advise staff who will replace or refund immediately

Are you arranging your staff Christmas party or a get-together before the big day? The team at Killingworth Hill Café & Whisky Bar will happily host your party Why not call us to discuss your requirements and make a booking?

Killingworth Hill Cafe & Whisky Bar Phone: 0455 266 888 www.killingworthhill.com.au

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Observer Crossword Solution No 37 I N N E V A Z A N A I V R I M A D E A B A S T E S C A B T E R A N C O T F R I Y A M A S I A T L T I D I E I G U L F T R H T H A I U T M E L T O L E P O O R U Y P E D L M Y O M A N Y N E S M O E B M O A N B R R O G U Y O O V E R S O S O T M R E S P A A R S H A I R

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S T W I O S H I D T S I B A N C K A S E S O E R T I E N P G H E M B E R A L L A B R M A D R O R L S E T Y S D D O W E N H P Y D L E

R H A F O F V I E A R D E O D G G Y Y M O N U T H H E G D O A L M E A T B I A N E X E P I R A T E E E L U S P E E D B B S L A E N D E A L

E T I N A M G M C I A N C E T I N S I T D R C E A S E C O D E A N R O S E S S A O T A N R A T E E O D O M G N W A M E N O L A S T S T W P R E F O R E R T N W P I N A A D A M L R N E S T D I A P Y R T I A O N E R H B L O S E E L L A M S A R U M P S I A I R M A N S E G F T I N G E E N N O L T A L E N T A S T R E P A R L L E T U A U P S S P U N S S P E C I B E L H A S I A I F F E R D T M I E N S E S

MELBOURNE OBSERVER MEGA 037 - (X grid) MEGA.eps. © Lovatts Crosswords 11/1/07 - Artist - JT

A L I C O Y T N I U X A K E L E S S T M E T T E L L G E N T R E E T E R A W T R E E R E R O N R E T E E R G O A E A N N O T L O N I F I N O O N T O B H B A I L L S E N T A S L L R E B L E I A N G L E O L S L E Y I S T A G E B E A L I S R E M C A A G U D G E E S I

L U C I L L E

I E M K E R A Y Y E T R E S S

A R S C O N T I N E N Y T O U A D R S T R O O L L P R A U C L H A A S E N C A C P I E D A S L I T N G H

S A L O O N

M E S T H A M A E S R I N T I N P E S E U N D O T N Y M I N N C E I N M S R E A N O P L E C C P P E H E A R S E E D

R U I N O K N A S P A C R A Y E O N X Y N G E O N A S T P E O K E V S M E G N E N E D A E R M N E U S N S D O L M I E N I R U R B S

E C A O D G M E A R A B T H E O N S

R E A E S L E A L N R R E O A A D M I L L Y O G I I C E L L E L S A G O M P B P E A H R S E N S S A S U D D O O R R U S U R R A N L E A A S S S A S R B C M A H O O T O P I L E E N A G R G S A L V M E A N P E G L U K E L E

A T E E A M S P A S P P K L I D A N N C E D O A N G I N W A E N M E B L A E N Y O D R E A M U P O M B E D D I G E N E C T E O N E C H T O

E D E E E D R I L C A W E Y E I R S H S K S I N G E L L D N S E D S T R E W R S A C H Y A B E R O O N C K O E S Y S T A P N S

Church

Looking for a Professional to run the show? ★ Compere/Host ★ Auctioneer ★ Promotions ★ A-Grade Journalist ★ Voice-Over Commercials ★ Race Caller All Sports, Race Nights ★ TV, Radio, Press ★ Respected Member of the Media

Ted Ryan Phone 9876 1652 Mobile: 0412 682 927 E-Mail: tedryan@australiaonline.net.au ted.ryan@optusnet.com.au

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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 43

Observer Victorian Sport Melbourne

Motu Gatecrasher victorious ■ The Stawell HRC raced on Sunday December 2 featuring the $40,000 (Group 3) Barham Insurance Advisers Stawell Pacing Cup for M0 or better class over 2600 metres and the $12,000 Renown Silverware Stawell Trotters Cup for T5 or better class over the same distance.

Bannockburn trainer/driver Geoff Webster's 5Y0 Changeover-Motu Fantasy entire Motu Gatecrasher was victorious in the pacing cup at the generous odds of $9.50.

Beginning swiftly from gate three, Motu Gatecrasher was unable to head off semi-local Perspective from the pole and was left momentarily in the open.

Shuffled back when Star Chamber, Tough Call and Mad Robber all made moves to get outside the pacemaker at various stages, Motu Gatecrasher ended up four back in the moving line as they raced for the bell.

When Mad Robber surged clear in the final circuit, Motu Gatecrasher was in hot pursuit after commencing a forward move three wide and in a thriiling finish, nailed Mad Robber by a half head on the wire.

Gunbower Cup winner Rackemup Tigerpie was an unlucky third, running home late from three back the markers when clear to be 10.4 metres away.

Raced by loyal stable clients Ron Anderson, Neil Richmond and Margaret Allen, Motu gatecrasher returned a mile rate of 1-58.1.

■ Former St Arnaud resident Shaun McNaulty now training in Marong, received a huge thrill when ex-Kiwi - 7Y0 Monarchy-Solar Fire gelding Fratellino snared the trotters cup in a rate of 2-03.3.

Raced by Shaun and brother Jason who had earlier in the day along with family members snared the Grampians Excavations Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2180 metres with Chissy under the care of David Van Ryn, Fratellino driven by Shaun's partner Michelle Phillips began best to lead from barrier two and allowed to bowl along, treated his rivals with contempt, scoring by 13.9 metres in advance of Savannah Jay Jay (one/one at bell) after starting from 20 metres, with Justtentrumps (three back the markers) using inside runs to be third 2.6 metres back.

At Yarra Valley

■ It's always a great day out at Yarra Valley trots and Bulla trainer Paul Buhagiar enjoyed it most after providing a stable double on Monday - 5Y0 Rock N Roll Hanover-Powerful Princess gelding Rocknroll Prince taking the United Petroleum Pace for C1 class over 1650 metres and 4Y0 Modern Art-Twinkletoes mare Dance To The Stars the 1650 metre C0 class St Ronans Cider Pace, both driven by John Caldow.

Rocknroll Prince first up since April, Led from gate four, with Caldow electing to allow the hot favourite Implode to ease off his back and assume control with a circuit to travel. Using the sprint lane, Rocknroll Prince finished too well for the leader to register a 1.6 metre victory, with Rebellin Ruby coming from the tail of the field to be third 2.8 metres away. T he mile rate 1-56.9. Dance To The Stars possied three back in the moving line from gate four as polemarker Lady Flora led. Going forward swiftly three wide in the last lap, Dance To The Stars won stylishly by 4.7 metres from Lady Flora who could offer no resistance in a rate of 1-57.2. Cantbetold (one/one) was a head away third.

■ Andy and Kate Gath who have been having a great run of late, especially with Inter Dominion Trotting Championship contender Tornado Valley, landed the Festivus 21 December Pace for C4 to C6 class over 2150 metres with more than handy Kiwi bred 6Y0 Mach Three-Elena Star gelding Dikerry.

Racing exposed for the last half of the journey after starting solo on the second line, Dikerry gave plenty over the concluding stages to prevail by a half head from Ideal Chance along the sprint lane after a one/one trip. Gozo Lighting (three wide last lap from the tail) was third 3.4 metres back.

The mile rate 1-59.4.

Harness Racing

Melbourne

Observer

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Double Day

■ Wednesday was double day with Charlton racing at Maryborough in the afternoon and Shepparton at night.

At Maryborough, Bannockburn co-trainers Richard and Emmett Brosnan landed the North West AG Services Trotters Mobile for T0 class over 2190 metres with Kiwi bred 5Y0 SundonBody And Soul entire Sun Body on debut in a rate of 2-02.

Enjoying a beaut passage from inside the second line trailing the polemarking leader and favourite Majestic Time, Richard and Sun Body used the sprint lane to perfection, scoring by 2.7 metres over Majestic Time who couldn't defend the challenge, with Do ball (one/four - three wide last lap) an eye catching third 4 metres away.

■ Ross Creek's Jenny Douglas snared the Vale Michael Bourke Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2690 metres with Hanging On A Dream, a 7Y0 Malabar Maple-Hangin With Sally mare.

Driven by brother Glenn, Hanging On A Dream settled at the tail from barrier five after a slow beginning, with local Bebubbalouie stepping quickly to lead from barrier four, with Glenn Conroy dashing past him shortly after aboard Girls Go First, then surrendering to the favourite The Paigeboy.

Letting rip with a brilliant burst of speed from last in the back straight on the final occasion, Hanging On A Dream raced clear on turning to prevail by 5.9 metres in advance of Bebubbalouie which found a gap in the straight, with AnneMaree Conroy's Celtic Rose (one/one) a most unlucky third after being shuffled back to near last ion the final circuit, flashing home late to blouse her stablemate Girls Go First by a nose.

The mile rate 2-04.5.

■ Eight year old Mach Three-Tasma Walton gelding Master Mach Manus proved to be a giant killer in the Charlton & District Community Bank Pace for C3 & C4 class over 2190 metres at Maryborough.

Trained and driven by Greg Albert from Nanneella , Master Mach Manus (gate two) was given the run of the race trailing the red-hot favourite Ellas Puppeteer first up since February which zoomed across the face of the field from gate five to lead.

With the leader given little peace by a fierce racing Top The Ace, he looked to be in trouble on straightening as Franco Jolto (one/one) joined in quickly to issue a challenge.

Looking all over a winner, Franco Jolto appeared to star gaze in the shadows of the post and was bloused by Master Mach Manus along the sprint lane by a neck so quickly did he stop.

Ellas Puppeteer held down third 5.8 metres away in a mile rate of 1-57.7.

Honest run

■ The trotters races are always interesting affairs at Shepparton and it was local Kialla owner/ breeder/trainer Peter Hornsby's very honest 8Y0 Eilean Donon-Styx mare Nica Macdonon who gained the prize in the Cardigan Boko Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2190

metres. Driven by Stacey Towers (Lee), Nica McDonon began safely to settle four back along the markers as roughie Michaels Mename strode clear from barrier three.

Easing away from the inside at the bell to lead up the outside division, Nica MacDonon dashed to the front turning out of the straight when the leader galloped and went for home opening up a big lead on the rest of the field.

Although her rivals gave chase in vain, Nica MacDonon held a 2 metere margin on reaching the post to defeat Zoomas Legend (three back the markers) and The Majestic (one/one at bell) who was 17.6 metres back in third place. The mile rate 2-03.9. It was Nica MacDonon's 13th victory at start number 106.

3 wins in a row

■ Geelong Cup winner from two weeks ago Buster Brady brought up three wins in succession when a big victor of the fast class feature at Shepparton - the C5 to C7 class Saddleworld Shepparton Pace over 2190 metres.

A former New Zealander, Buster Brady a lightly raced 6Y0 gelded son of Real Desire and Kacie Marie trained and driven by Avenel based Kima Frenning went forward from outside the front line to cruise past South Australian visitor Emain Macha (gate five) whose driver Greg Sugars wisely elected to take a trail.

Coasting all of the way, Buster Brady toyed with his rivals to record a untouched 8.3 metre margin over Emain Macha which safely held down second in a rate of 1-57.7. Polemarker Zuberi although up in grade was third 13.1 metres back after following the pair.

Sulky Snippets This Week

■ Wednesday - Ballarat, Thursday - Echuca, Friday - Yarra valley/Bendigo, Saturday Melton (I-D Grand Final), Sunday - Terang, Monday - Melton, Tuesday - Swan Hill.

Horses to follow

■ Rule Of Thumb, Clear Lake, Emain Macha, Col Du Galibier, Needabacardi, Radius, Celtic Rose, Mister Zhivago, Kasbah Kid.

for C3 & C4 class. With Sydney based Todd McCarthy taking the reins, Franks Very Much led throughout from gate two to easily account for Elteearr which trailed from the pole, with Kamwood Caesar gaining inside runs on turning to be third, The margins 3.1 by 4.8 metres in a mile rate of 1-57.6.

Grand Finals

■ All roads will lead to Tabcorp Park Melton this Saturday for the running of the $200,000 Inter Dominion Grand Finals for both Pacers and Trotters.

The best chances in the pacers are : Spankem. Cruz Bromac, Im Pats Delight and ■ Echuca's Ros Rolfe was successful at Tiger Tara, while the Trotters looks to be a match Shepparton with home bred 5Y0 between Tornado Hanover and Speeding Spur Grinfromeartoear-Cisstar gelding Franks Very with Save Our Pennys a distinctive place Much in the 2190 metre JDC Contractors Pace chance.

Inside running

Observer Overmatter Bankrupt charged Hear Me Roar

■ Kevin Leeder of Parkville, was convicted of two bankruptcy offences; hiding a sum of money and disposing of a vehicle that could have been used to repay his debts.

Mr Leeder sold a property in September 2016 and received over $60 000, which was deposited into one of his bank accounts.

He then withdrew $40 000, before filing for bankruptcy in November 2016. It is an offence under the Bankruptcy Act to hide money that could be used to repay creditors.

Mr Leeder also disposed of a 2006 Mercedes Benz motor vehicle by claiming he had sold it to a third party for $20,000 and providing a handwritten tax invoice / statement to verify the transaction. The third party was his housemate.

No receipt was provided for the alleged cash payment and no evidence was provided of the receipt of the cash amount. Mr Leeder disposed of the vehicle by changing the registered owner details so as to intentionally defraud his creditors.

“Bankrupts need to be honest with their bankruptcy trustee. Honesty helps achieve equitable outcomes for all parties,” said Paul Shaw, National Manager of Regulation and Enforcement with the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA).

“Most people in bankruptcy do the right thing, but AFSA has no tolerance for those who intentionally misuse the system.”

Mr Leeder was sentenced in the Melbourne Magistrates Court on November 26 to a 12 months’ Community Corrections Order that includes performing 250 hours of unpaid community work.

The matter was prosecuted by the Office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions on behalf of the Australian Financial Security Authority.

■ Trevor Ashley and Phil Bathols today announced a Melbourne date for Hear Mr Roar, their new music event that will bring together some of the greatest songs ever written by women, performed by some of Australia’s leading female artists.

Taking its inspiration from Helen Reddy’s legendary lyric, this new show is a musical tribute to female empowerment and will play for one night only in Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne on Saturday March 9 to celebrate International Women’s Day. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Friday (Dec. 14).

Food place audits

■ The Fair Work Ombudsman is targeting restaurants and cafes in the popular Degraves Street and Hardware Lane dining strips in the Melbourne CBD with unannounced workplace audits.

Fair Work Inspectors are in the area speaking to business owners, managers and employees to check that workers are being paid correctly.

At least 40 businesses face audits and inspectors are also examining their employment records for compliance with workplace laws.

The FWO acted after receiving intelligence from a range of sources, including its Anonymous Report tool and various stakeholders, indicating potential workplace breaches by some businesses in the area.

Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker said the audits are the latest in a string of proactive compliance activities targeting popular food hubs.

The hospitality industry was again overrepresented in contacts to the FWO in 2017-18, with 18 per cent of workplace disputes recorded, a third of court actions and almost 40 per cent of all anonymous reports.

Page 44 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Best Places

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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 47

Visit Daylesford

• Galleries • Gardens • Wineries • Fine Dining • Lake Walks • Health and Fitness

Motel Accommodation Phone: 5348 3388 info@centralspringsinn.com.au www.centralspringsinn.com.au For tour group assistance, call Melissa

Page 48 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 49

Holiday Apatyments in Cairns, Tropical North Qld

Argosy On The Beach February and March 2019 50% room rates for all bookings made from this ad

Our one and two bedroom apartments are truly relaxing.

Spacious open plan living areas with floor to ceiling glass open onto huge private balconies overlooking the beach while taking in the cool sea breezes.

All feature a queen size bed in the master bedroom with walk in robe and ensuite bathroom and two single beds in the second bedroom. Each apartment has two bathrooms, one with a full sized bath and every bedroom open directly onto rear balconies which over look rainforest and where the birdlife and free roaming kangaroos are simply a delight with all visitors.

Kitchens are fully self contained with everything you need to make the most of your holiday including, naturally a dishwasher, full oven and cook top, microwave and fridge/ freezer. These spacious apartments have a separate laundry with dryer and ironing facilities and are fully air-conditioned.

For entertainment, there are large flat screen TV's, CD music systems and each apartment has direct phone/internet access. For your convenience the apartments have lift access to all floors including wheel chair access to the complex. Premium linen is standard, with extra rollaway beds available upon request.

We have the facility to lock off rooms for one bedroom bookings and these share one bathroom only. The two bedroom, two bathroom apartments accommodate up to a maximum of 5 persons per apartment, they are serviced weekly or by arrangement.

Apartment Features Beachfront accommodation; 16 x 1 & 2 bedroom fully self contained apartments Large private balconies with absolute beachfront views Outdoor patio dining furniture and sun lounges Full air conditioning throughout with ceiling fans Master bedroom with queen bed, TV, walk in robe, ensuite and rear balcony Second bedroom with two single beds, large robe and rear balcony Second bathroom with shower and full sized bath TV, DVD and CD music systems FOXTEL TV Fully equipped kitchens with microwave, dishwasher, oven and refrigerator/freezer Coffee Plunger Separate laundry with washing machine, dryer and ironing facilities Hair Dryers STD/ISD direct dial telephones Wireless internet Premium linen including complimentary beach towels Apartments serviced weekly or by arrangement at your request 2:00pm check-in and 10:00am check-out Lifts to all floors

Book direct and save: (07) 4055 3333

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Page 50 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Page 54 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 55

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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 57 e urn lbo Me

Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

ver N ser O Ob TI C SE 3

Observer Showbiz

Theatre: Latest Melbourne shows .......................... Page 59 Arts: Peter Kemp’s guide .................................................... Page 58 Country Music: Rob Foenander reports ....................... Page 58 Jim and Aar on: Top 10 lists, reviews .................................... Page 60 Aaron: Cheryl Threadgold: Local shows, auditions ........................... Page 61 PL US THE LLO OVATT”S MEGA CRO PLUS CROSSSWORD

EVITA: TINA OWNS IT Australian Ballet

● La Sylphide Photo: Sergey Konstantinov ■ The much anticipated Australian Ballet School end of year performance Summer Season 2018, La Sylphide and Selected Works, at the Melbourne Arts Centre Playhouse was a thrilling night of entertainment and inspiration presented by over 100 students.

The delights of the evening included both classical and contemporary dance demonstrating the versatility and dedication of these talented young dancers.

Their professionalism can be attributed to the School which is encased in a fine team of trainers including choreographers, music, fitness, health and well-being practitioners, lighting, set and costume designers and support staff.

Waltz from Birthday Celebration, (choreographer Mark Annear) created for level 4 students, captured the grace skill and beauty of their classical ballet techniques.

In the Wolfgang Dance, using Mozart’s first movement Allegro from Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, choreographer Simon Dow playfully marries the repetitive sounds of four strings with movement.

Young, predominantly white-costumed students with powdered wigs skilfully crossed vast distances of stage in tiny steps. The audience revelled in the humour of this cheeky composition.

Heart Strings (choreography Margaret Wilson) pertinently allowed scope for level 6 students’ individuality and youthful self-expression. The minimalist costume, turquoise (female dancers) and black (male), was perfect to allow their bodies and gestures to speak the stories of the tussles of adolescence.

By contrast, the Summer Season’s showpiece performance of La Sylphide, restaged by Greg Horsman after Danish master August Bournonville’s choreography, was fully costumed.

Notably, Matthew Bradwell as James and Joseph Romancewicz, (Gurn) gave powerful, tension-building performances as rivals exhibiting the high calibre and vitality of their talents with precision allegro and faultless solos.

The cast of dancers and music filled the Playhouse stage with atmospheric, otherworldly forest scenes and celebratory, Scottish town gatherings enhanced by wonderful sets.

Through the dedication of this company, Australia is privileged to foresee the burgeoning careers of many world class ballerinas.

- Review by Sherryn Danaher

Ocarina

● Tina Arena (Eva) and Kurt Kansley (Chey) in Evita. Photo: Jeff Busby ■ Argentinian history comes alive onstage at the State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne, as Opera Australia, John Frost and David Ian present the original Broadway and West End production of the fascinating musical, Evita.

With lyrics by Tim Rice and music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Evita tells of the life and death of theatre and radio actress Eva Duarte, from 1919, including her rise to become wife to Argentinian leading figure Juan Perón, and finally regarded as the ‘Spiritual Chief of the Nation’ when dying in 1952.

Under the direction of Hal Prince, visual predominance given to projected images of Eva Perón and the narrative’s true-life characters is a respectful tribute to these historical figures.

The audience is reminded that the elements and magical effects of musical theatre will merge with factual happenings from the past to convey a theatrically creative interpretation.

Credibility may have been reinforced by integrating visual presence of the real Eva Perón with the musical story, but when Tina Arena’s fabulous singing voice resonates through the theatre, this becomes a powerful, real-life dominant force in its own right.

Kurt Kansley (Che) commands the stage with his terrific, high-energy performance. His narrator-style character symbolises various elements including change and thoughts of the Argentinian people. Kansley and Arena’s crystal-clear articulation of dialogue was overheard to be much appreciated by the audience.

A strong, believable performance is also enjoyed from Paulo Szot (future Argentinian President Juan Perón) and a poignant, moving portrayal of Perón’s discarded Mistress from Alexis Van Maanen.

Michael Falzon is great as Magaldi, and the talents of the versatile Ensemble help sustain the show’s fast-moving production numbers.

Musical Director Guy Simpson’s wonderful orchestra is a joy to hear, as are the lovely vocal performances of varied tone and genre. The era-authentic costumes and mood-changing lighting enhance the show’s aesthetics.

A minimalistic setting showcases the story, and Larry Fuller’s superb choreography exudes dynamic vibrance, including meticulously timed military routines.

Arena appears to have diminished opportunity to visually command the theatrical stage. While this would have added visual impact to the stage version, once again the projected images remind us that the real Eva Peron truthfully owns her historical story.

But unquestionably, this stage musical interpretation belongs to the unique and mega-talents of our home-grown star, Tina Arena. Melbourne audiences can delight in seeing Evita until February. https://evitathemusical.com.au/tickets/melbourne/

● Ryan Williams in Ocarina ■ Video-game jazz sensations The Consouls join Ensemble Françaix and Con Brio Strings to perform Ocarina, the new symphonic fantasy celebrating the iconic instrument and music behind the hugely popular Zelda videogames series Featuring real-life ocarinas played by Ryan Williams and cross-genre collaborations combining the powers, colours and possibilities of jazz and classical orchestration, this show is being presented for one night only, December 15 at The Coopers Malthouse.

Presented by Scintillations Music and Youbrio, the work is inspired by and based on the musical themes of videogame composer Koji Kondo, bringing together some of Australia’s young musical talent.

It invites audiences to discover the ocarina, the real-life ancient wind instrument played by the game’s central character Link to traverse far reaches, unlock temples and dungeons, and summon companions in his journey to rescue Princess Zelda.

The concert marks the reunion of award-winning pianist and director of Scintillations Music, Nick Young with Sydney-based video game jazz sensations The Consouls, following their first collaboration in 2017 to celebrate the tenth-year anniversary of Final Fantasy VII. Their creative forces will be augmented by Ensemble Françaix and Con Brio Strings, adding woodwind and string orchestral colours to create a symphonic effect. Melbournebased recorder experimentalist Ryan Williams caps off the musical cast, bringing along with him authentic ocarinas that will be a central feature of the performance.

Accompanying the live performances are exclusive visual projections inspired by characters, settings and events of the game, produced in collaboration with graphic artist Vicky Zhang.

In addition to producing innovative concert presentations, Yobrio provides budding young musicians around the world with revolutionary means to take online examinations, participate in international competitions, and audition for unique opportunities to perform alongside world stars, all through the convenience of a phone or device app.

Scintillations Music is pleased to partner with Youbrio in bringing music education and outreach to the 21st century.

Performance: Saturday, December 15 Time: 8pm Venue: Merlyn Theatre, The Coopers Malthouse Duration: 2 hours with 20-minute interval Cost: A Res $35 - $69, Family $47, B Res $25 - $49, Family $34.50. Premium $39 - $79, Family $57 Bookings: https://malthousetheatre.com.au/whats-on/ ocarina - Cheryl Threadgold

Page 58 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Observer Showbiz

Country Music, Radio, Theatre, Almanac Country Crossroads

By Rob Foenander info@countrycrossroads.com.au

Summer Sounds ■ St Kilda's Memo Music Hall will play host to a number of local artists who've called and still call St Kilda home.

The spotlight on a selection of these performers will be part of the Summer Sounds St Kilda 2019.

Hugo Race, Mikelangelo, Kim Salmon, Harry Howard and The NDE, Lisa Miller, Alma Zygier, Paul Williamson's Hammond Combo, Jack Howard, Acland Street Express and more are scheduled to perform.

Tickets at the Memo.Good Friday Appeal.

Country at Highett ■ The next Country Comes To Town showcase will be held at the Highett Bowls Club on Saturday, February 2, commencing 6pm.

Artists appearing on the day will be Rattlincane, The Prairie Oysters, The Long and Short of It and Anthony Taylor.

Tickets are $10 for members and $20 for public at the door or at www.trybooking.com/ ZGOT

Bungalow C’mas ■ A night of festive spirit with Christmas songs and more is on offer at the The Bungalow - Sandown Regency on Friday, December 21.

Tre 2 Che with Kelvin and Vanessa will entertain from 7.30pm till 11am.

Dinner bookings at the Regency.

- Rob Foenander

Drama League awards ■ The 22nd AnnualAwards of the Victorian Drama League were presented at a glittering dinner held at Merrimu Receptions, Murrumbeena.

Awards were presented for various aspects of theatre-making.

GoldAward BEST SET DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA The Neil Barnett and Chris Churchward Perpetual Trophy Donated by Beaumaris Theatre Company Awarded to: Doug Bennett Ballarat National Theatre Inc. Mr Bailey's Minder by Debra Oswald Silver Award BEST SET DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA Awarded to: Chris Shaw Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Co. Inc. The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance GoldAward BEST LIGHTING DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA The Frank Donahue Perpetual Trophy Donated by the1812Theatre Awarded to: Robin Le Blond Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Co. Inc. The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance Silver Award BEST LIGHTING DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA Awarded to: Steven Georgiadis Skin Of Our Teeth Productions Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, adapted by Christine Davey GoldAward BEST SOUND DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA The Victorian Drama League Perpetual Trophy Donated by V F Trainor Trophies Awarded to: Greg Shawcross Geelong Repertory Theatre Co. The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui by Bertolt Brecht adapted by George Tabori Silver Award BEST SOUND DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA Awarded to: Chris Shaw Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Co. Inc. The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance GoldAward BEST COSTUME DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA The Russell Johnson Perpetual Trophy Donated by Sonja and Eddy Jager Awarded to: Sarah Jeffs / Annie Laurenson Frankston Theatre Group Inc. Charley's Aunt by Brandon Thomas Silver Award BEST COSTUME DESIGN in a COMEDY

r Obser vbeiz On This Day Show

Wednesday December 12

■ American singer and actor Frank Sinatra was born in Hokoken, New Jersey, in 1915.

He died aged 82 in 1998.

Singer Dionne Warwick was born in New Jersey in 1941 (77).

Irish singer and television presenter Daniel O’Donnell was born in Donegal in 1961 (57).

Thursday December 13 ■ American actor Dick Van Dyke was born in Missouri in 1925. He is 93 this year.

Singer/songwriter Ross Ryan was born in Leavenworth, Kansas, in 1950 (68).

Australian signer Anthony Callea was born in Melbourne in 1982 (36).

He made No 1 with The Prayer.

Melbourne Arts ora DRAMA Awarded to Emma Watson Skin of Our Teeth Productions Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, adapted by Christine Davey GoldAward BEST PROPERTIES DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA The Victorian Drama League Perpetual Trophy Donated by V F Trainor Trophies Awarded to: Neil Barnett, Deborah Fabbro, Norma Seager Brighton Theatre Co. In The Next Room or the vibrator play by Sarah Ruhl SilverAward BEST PROPERTIES DESIGN in a COMEDY or a DRAMA Awarded to: Barbara Hughes, David Dare, Dion Sexton Williamstown Little Theatre Inc. Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson GoldAward BESTACTRESS in a MINOR ROLE in a COMEDY or a DRAMA Awarded to: Venetia Macken as "Angustias" Heidelberg Theatre Co. The House of Bernarda Alba by Frederico Garcia Lorca, translated by David Hare GoldAward BEST ACTOR in a MINOR ROLE in a COMEDY or a DRAMA Awarded to: Ryan O'Connor as 'Mason', 'Pilot', 'Ensemble' Skin Of Our Teeth Productions Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, adapted by Christine Davey GoldAward BEST SUPPORTINGACTRESS in a COMEDY The Eileen Bentley Perpeptual Trophy Donated by Essendon Theatre Company Awarded to: Vivienne Rochford as 'Dawn Patterson' Bright Alpine Actors It's My Party (and I'll cry if I want to) by Elizabeth Coleman GoldAward BEST SUPPORTINGACTRESS in a DRAMA The Yvonne Manley Perpetual Trophy Donated by Sherbrooke Theatre Company Continued on Page 59

Cloudstreet ■ Malthouse Theatre and Black Swan State Theatre Company have announced the cast for the epic saga that traverses 20 years of fighting to keep two families—the Lambs and the Pickles - together in one massive house.

Portraying the Lamb family is Alison Whyte (Last Man Standing, The Dressmaker) as Oriel, Greg Stone (The Government Inspector, Pompeii, L.A) as Lester, Guy Simon (Blaque Showgirls, Jasper Jones) as Quick and Benjamin Oakes (Theatre of Speed and Oddlands with Back To Back Theatre), will perform in his debut Malthouse Theatre performance in the role of Fish.

Joining the Lambs in the large house, the great continent where the two damaged clans collide, will be the Pickles family: Bert LaBonte (The Book of Mormon, I Am a Miracle) as Sam, Natasha Herbert (Away) as Dolly and Brenna Harding (Puberty Blues, Black Mirror, Secret City) as Rose.

An ensemble of extraordinary performers will complete the story with Ebony McGuire (Yirra Yaakin’s Kep Kaatijin, Western Edge Youth Arts Caliban), Scott Sheridan (Black Swan State Theatre Company’s The Importance of Being Earnest), Arielle Gray (Picnic at Hanging Rock), Ian Michael (Black Swan State Theatre Company’s Let the Right One In) and in her first mainstage production, WAAPA graduate Mikayla Merks.

With more than five hours of onstage activity, audiences can experience the event as a one-night extravaganza with dinner included, or a two-night saga where the story can be savoured over two evenings.

Adapted by Nick Enright and Justin Monjo from the award-winning novel by Tim Winton, Cloudstreet is brought to life in this monumental new production unprecedented in scale and ambition for Malthouse Theatre.

Cloudstreet can be seen at Malthouse Theatre from May 6 to June 23, 2019. For tickets and further information visit malthousetheatre.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Radio in summer ■ ABC breakfast radio hosts in Melbourne over summer include Meshell Laurie, Alicia Sometimes, Kirsten Diprose and Libby Gorr.

ABC 774 morning hosts will include Prue Bentley, Narelle Graham and Warwick Long.

Richard Stubbs and Rosie Walton, and Michael James (producer), are in the Triple M line-up.

Stephen Quartermain and Craig Willis will partner Kate Stevenson on 3AW. Melbourne

Observer

Friday December 14

Saturday December 15

■ American bandleader Spike Jones was born in Califronia in 1911. He died aged 53 in 1965.

US country singer Charlie Rich was born in Arkansas in 1932.

He died aged 62 in 1995.

Actress Rebecca Gibney was born in NZ in 1964 (54).

■ French engineer Alexandre Eiffel was born in 1833. He died aged 81 in 1923.

Actor Tim Conway, who was Ensign Charles Parker in McHale’s Navy, is 83.

TV presenter Tim Webster is 67.

Cricketer Greg Matthews is 57. TV’s Michelle Stamper celebrates.

Sunday December 16 ■ German classical composer Ludvig Van Beethoven was born in 1770. He died aged 56 in 1827.

British actor, writer and composer Sir Noel Coward was born in 1899. He died aged 72 in 1973.

Actress Georgie Parker was born in Sydney in 1964 (54).

Monday December 17

■ British singer Tommy Steele is 82 (1936).

Australian media magnate Kerry Packer was born in Sydney in 1937.

He died aged 68 in 2005.

ABC presenter Ian ‘Macca’ McNamara was born in 1945 (73).

Artist Clifton Pugh was born in 1924. He died in 1990 (65).

Tuesday December 18 ■ Rolling Stones lead guitarist Keith Richards was born in Kent, England, in 1943 (76).

US film director Steven Spielberg is 72 (1946).

Film critic Leonard Maltin is 68.

US actor Brad Pitt is 56 (1963).

US actress Katie Holmes is 40 (1978).

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

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 59

Observer Showbiz

TV, Radio, Theatre

Drama League ● From Page 58 Awarded to: Paula McDonald as 'Williamina Fleming' Williamstown Little Theatre Inc. Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson GoldAward BEST SUPPORTINGACTOR in a COMEDY The Victorian Drama League Perpetual Trophy Donated by Eltham Little Theatre Awarded to: Gilbert Gauci as 'Mike Molinsky' Essendon Theatre Co. Old Actors Never Die. They Simply Lose the Plot by Lynn Brittney GoldAward BEST SUPPORTINGACTOR in a DRAMA The Margaret and Annesly Keown Perpetual Trophy Donated by Richard Keown Awarded to: Geoff Gaskill as 'Dogsborough' , 'Actor' , 'First Grocer' Geelong Repertory Theatre Co. The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui by Bertolt Brecht adapted by George Tabori GoldAward BESTACTRESS in a COMEDY The Victorian Drama League Perpetual Trophy Donated by Waverley Theatre Company Awarded to: Cat Jardine as 'Sabrina Daldry' Brighton Theatre Co. In The Next Room or the vibrator play by Sarah Ruhl GoldAward BESTACTRESS in a DRAMA The Victorian Drama League Perpetual Trophy Donated by Waverley Theatre Company Awarded to: Gemma Pantaleo as 'Jane Eyre' Skin Of Our Teeth Productions Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, adapted by Christine Davey GoldAward BESTACTOR in a COMEDY The Max Grant Perpetual Trophy Donated by Mitcham Theatre Group Awarded to: Jonathan Best as 'Nicodemus' , 'Lady Enid' Beaumaris Theatre Inc. The Mystery of Irma Vep - A Penny Dreadful by Charles Ludlam GoldAward BESTACTOR in a DRAMA The David Perkins Perpetual Trophy Donated by David Perkins Awarded to: Cameron Allen as 'Arturo Ui' Geelong Repertory Theatre Co. The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui by Bertolt Brecht adapted by George Tabori GoldAward BEST DIRECTOR of a COMEDY Production The Edna (Jones) Bartlett Perpetual Trophy Donated by Gordon Bartlett Awarded to: Natasha Boyd Brighton Theatre Co. In The Next Room or The Vibrator Play by Sarah Ruhl GoldAward BESTDIRECTORofaDRAMAProduction The Edna Chandler Perpetual Trophy Donated by The Basin Theatre Group Awarded to: Greg Shawcross Geelong Repertory Theatre Co. The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui by Bertolt Brecht adapted by George Tabori GoldAward BEST COMEDY PRODUCTION The Victorian Drama League Perpetual Trophy Donated by Charles 'Bud' Tingwell Brighton Theatre Co. In The Next Room or the vibrator play by Sarah Ruhl GoldAward BESTDRAMAPRODUCTION The Nicky McFarlane Perpetual Trophy Donated by Nicky McFarlane Geelong Repertory Theatre Co. The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui by Bertolt Brecht adapted by George Tabori - Cheryl Threadgold

Alice In Wonderland

■ Boyd Productions present a return season of Lewis Carroll's timeless classic Alice in Wonderland, at four Victorian venues from January 9 – 15.

Actors and puppeteers will bring 20 characters to life on stage in a play that takes audiences down the rabbit hole with Alice, one of literature's most beloved heroines, to her adventures in Wonderland - tumbling with the Tweedle Twins, chasing the White Rabbit, booing the boisterous Queen of Hearts and taking tea with the Hatter at Maddest tea party of all time.

Directed and adapted by Australian Penny Farrow, the production features an international creative team with set designs by Zachary Lieberman (Los Angeles), graphic designer Yi Ling (Singapore) and Emmy Award winning costume designer Diana Eden (Canada).

The cast features Georgina Walker asAlice, Liz Skitch as White Rabbit, Simon BurvillHolmes as Queen of Hearts, Catherine Glavicic as Mad Hatter, Ben Adams as March Hare, Anthony Craig as Caterpillar/Dormouse, Justine Anderson as Tweedle Dum and Sarah Whelan as Tweedle Dee. Producer Ethan Walker says: "Alice in Wonderland is extremely universal and speaks to people of all ages.

“The original book has been translated into 174 languages and most people who haven't read the book definitely know the characters and can reference them.

“In our production The Mad Hatter is performed by a female actor and the Queen of Hearts by a male actor."

"The biggest obstacle for us was to create a Broadway calibre production with an affordable ticket price for families.

● Georgina Walker (Alice) with the White Rabbit (operated by Liz Skitch) in Alice in Wonderland.

You can't begin to imagine the expense, time and labour that go into creating the world of 'Wonderland' for a live audience. We have attention to detail in everything from our lavish costumes to our stunningly beautiful stage sets.”

Performance Details: Wednesday, January 9 - Wendouree Centre for the Performing Arts, Ballarat. www.wcpa.com.au 5338 0980 Thursday, January 10 – 12 – Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne. www.ticketek.com.au 132 849 or 9650 1500 Sunday, January 13 – Frankston Arts Centre www.thefac.com.au 03) 97841060 Tuesday, January15 - Capital Theatre, Bendigo www.gotix.com.au 03) 5434 6100 www.aliceinwonderlandlive.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Latest shows, auditions SHOWS

AUDITIONS

■ Heidelberg Theatre Youth Group: Alice in Wonderland (by Erich Fordham and Ryan Purdey) Until December 15 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Director: Rhys Purdey. Tickets: $10, Bookings: www.htc.org.au ■ Brighton Theatre Company Youth Group: Bad Auditions By Bad Actors December 13 - 15 at Brighton Arts and Culture Centre, Brighton.

Director: Carina Field. Bookings: www.brightontheatre.com.au ■ PLOS Musical Productions: SHREK The Musical, December 31 - January 9 at the Frankston Arts Centre. Tickets: www.plos.asn.au

■ Wyndham Theatre Company: Stepping Out (a play with tap dancing by Richard Harris) December 15 at 1.00pm and December 17 at7.30pm at Crossroads Theatre, Cnr Synnot St and Rd., Werribee. Director: Renee Belsey.

Enquiries: 0401 932893.

■ Essendon Theatre Company: Suite Surrender (by Michael McKeever) January 15 and 17 at the Bradshaw Street Community Theatre, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Director: George Benca.

Audition enquiries: georgebenca@gmail.com

MELBOURNE ARTS WITH PETER KEMP Ivan Durrant: Colouring Lake Mokoan Located in northeast Victoria near Benalla, Lake Mokoan, now known as Winton Waterlands, is the focus of an environmental rehabilitation program.

Ivan Durrant's paintings of shimmering water and drowned stag trees are presented alongside studies of the artist's paint palettes used to create them. In the exhibition Ivan shares his way of seeing the world as patterns of light and form, and the creative processes through which he materialises this vision through paint.

Exhibition closes March 3.

Kate Rohde: Monster Mash Fun for all ages, Monster Mash is a hyper-colourful in-

teractive exhibition that draws on the fantastical interiors and mutant creatures created by installation artist Kate Rohde.

Enter this magical play space of lush fur, warped mirrors and mythical creatures and create your own monsters and fantasy wallpaper t add to the space.

Opened December 7 and closes February 17.

BenallaArt Gallery Botanical Gardens Bridge St, Benalla ★ Social History Tours: On the tour you will discover the diverse history of the Convent; from its use as meeting place for the Kulin Nation, to its days as a convent when the Good Shepherd Sisters ran a closed monastic site for over

a century, and how it came to be a leading arts, culture and education community it is today. Living memories have been collected from former residents and caretakers of the land, which the Convent's lovely volunteer tour guides share as you explore hidden pockets of the Convent Tour Saturday December 16 at 2pm.

Abbotsford Convent 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford ★ Kingston Arts is currently seeking applications for both solo and group art exhibitions in 2019. For further information contact Michelle James on 9556 4462. Venues: G3 Artspace Shirley Burke Theatre 63 Parkers Rd. Parkdale and G1 & G2 Kingston Arts Centre 979 Nepean Hwy. Moorabbin

Aust. Shakespeare ■ The Australian Shakespeare Company Summer season includes Lewis Carroll’s story Alice in Wonderland being presented from January 3 -27 at Ripponlea House and Gardens.

Adapted by Glenn Elston - best known for his productions of Shakespeare Under the Stars and The Wind in the Willows – this production aims to entertain all ages.

“This Summer season of Alice in Wonderland is loved by audiences every year because children (and adults) prefer fantasy to reality.”, explains Director Glenn Elston.

“Alice offers an endearing and safe guide into a surreal world that encourages the imagination to blossom and explore all manner of possibilities.

“Alice in Wonderland is also an encouraging role model for self-esteem and survival in the face of various strange adversities.

“She stands up for herself in a variety of quite challenging situations. Humpty Dumpty is joining the parade of fantastical characters in this year’s season and there will also be more interaction with the audience, inviting them to participate along the journey through Wonderland.”

Full of fanciful characters, Alice in Wonderland follows Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole into a wonder-land, encountering talking rabbits, caterpillars, cats, and the larger than life Queen of Hearts.

She gets taller and smaller, dances with the codo, talks with a caterpillar, sneezes with the Duchess, has tea with the Mad Hatter, and works to keep her head from the Queen of Hearts.

This promenade-style children's production from The Australian Shakespeare Company includes singing, dancing, and riddles and rhymes, and participation for children.

Even adults have to turn into cards and march behind the Queen of Hearts ... or suffer the consequences.

Performance Dates: January 3 – 27 Times: Tues. - Sun. 11am, Thurs. and Fri. 6pm Tickets: $25 - $30 (children under 12 months free), $90 - $110 Family (4 people) Bookings: 8676 7511 and online at www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au/shows/ alice-in-wonderland Venue: Ripponlea House and Gardens 192 Hotham St, Elsternwick (entry via main gate on Hotham St) www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Ethereal Andy

■ Hyperion Nyx presents Dis-Connected January 16, 17 and 19 at 8.30pm at The Butterfly Club.

This immersive visual theatre experience includes a dimension in-between a low lit room and a outwordly place, where audiences are drawn into smaller, and yet again smaller spaces.

Audiences are navigating the tightly woven maze of the human mind. Turn left.

Adorning the walls are reminders of hardship, identity, ostracism, sexuality. Turn right.

There is a slightly familiar etching of Theseus.

Around another corner is a collection of red yarn... or is it blood? Drawing ever closer to the middle, reflection upon reflection of the past, present and future comes cascading down upon us all, asking what will be found at the core of this labyrinth?

Performance Details: January16, 17 and 19 at 8.30pm Venue: The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne Bookings: www.thebutterflyclub.com - Cheryl Threadgold

Page 60 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Observer Showbiz

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Movies, DVDs with Jim Sherlock, Aaron Rourke What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs FILM: B L ACKkKL ANSMAN: Cast: John David Washington, Adam Driver, Alec Baldwin, Topher Grace.

Genre: Biography/Crime/Drama.

Year: 2018.

Rating: MA15+ Length: 135 Minutes.

Stars: **** Verdict: An African-American police officer from Colorado, successfully manages to infiltrate the local Ku Klux Klan and became the head of their local chapter.

Based on the autobiography by Ron Stallworth, this comically exuberant and emotionally dynamic effort co-written and directed by Spike Lee is his most fearlessly accessible to date, a funny, gripping and masterfully satiric and brutally unforgiving experience that ranks alongside his previous politically and racially charged gamechanging films such as "Do The Right Thing" (1989), "Malcolm X" (1992) and the powerful Oscar nominated feature documentary "4 Little Girls" (1997).

John David Washington, son of Denzel Washington, gives a perfectly quirky and gripping performance as Det. Ron Stallworth, along with his co-assigned sidekick Adam Driver as Det. Flip Zimmerman, as well as Robert John Burke, Laura Harrier, Michael Buscemi and Topher Grace as KKK head, David Duke, all excel!

Masterfully balancing itself between the "Blaxploitation" genre, "Crime-Comedy," the "Period Drama" and the "Police Thriller," from afro hair styles, over-sized shirt lapels, platform shoes to bell-bottom trousers, the 1970s period detail is right on the mark, and playfully executed by Spike Lee, and includes a bristling satirical tribute to the "Blaxploitation" films of the period including such classics of the genre as "Shaft" (1971) "Super Fly" (1972) and "Hit Man" (1972), to name a few.

The classic "Gone With The Wind" (1939) receives a relevant and potent inclusion, but it is the "Birth of a Nation" (1916) screening cross-referenced or intertwined between a KKK meeting and the true story of a racial event told by a surprise cameo is just one of the many searing moments that will hold you spellbound.

A superb mix on the power of race relations and entertainment values, there's no doubt about the film's gripping power and taut originality.

To say any more would be an injustice, so in finishing, Spike Lee's "BlacKkKlansman" is a funny, passionate, absurd, angry, exciting, tragic, relevant, outrageous and thrilling experience, a tremendously entertaining and ultimately a monumentally powerful cinematic achievement that packs such an overwhelming punch that will leave you shell-shocked long after the credits are over!

FILM: Cast: Steenburgen,

BOOK CLUB: Diana Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Mary

Andy Garcia, Craig T. Nelson, Don Johnson, Richard Dreyfuss, Alicia Silverstone.

Genre: Romance/Comedy/Drama.

Year: 2018.

Rating: M. Length: 104 Minutes.

Stars: ***½ Verdict: Four lifelong friends have their lives forever changed after reading "50 Shades of Grey" in their monthly book club.

Delightfully engaging romantic-comedy-drama sparkles brightly due to a stellar cast who have all delivered a much more than significant contribution to cinema and audiences over the decades, and even though they may have not a thing to prove, they pack the screen with enough richly defined credibility, overwhelming personality and endearing charm, that any or all flaws totally immaterial.

Oscar winning veterans Diana Keaton, Jane Fonda, and Mary Steenburgen, and Oscar nominee Candice Bergen, are all having a good time, and so will you, and as for the guys, Andy Garcia, Craig T. Nelson, Don Johnson and Richard Dreyfuss they have not lost an ounce of their charisma and spark, in fact, like their female counterparts, they all seem to be getting better with age.

As for the plot. it may seem a bit pedestrian or formulaic, but no matter, with a solid and effective screenplay, respectful direction and even pacing, this is a laugh out loud, and sometimes poignant, entertaining experience with something for everyone, a most welcome addition to cinemas screens, one that feels like a refreshing glass of iced tea or wine with some old friends on a warm summers day.

Where "Book Club" also excels is in its relevance to the younger generation, as a warm hearted reflection and antidote to those younger audience members who may be concerned about reaching the prime in their lives and what lies beyond, and we all get there sooner than what we think, but no matter here, you're in good hands in this fun romp with four of cinemas great screen legends still very much right at the top of their game!

FILM: Genre: Cast: Liam Neeson,

THE BOUNTY: Historical/Adventure/Drama/Mystery.

Anthony Hopkins, Mel Gibson, Laurence Olivier, Edward Fox,

Daniel Day-Lewis.

Year: 1984/.

Rating: M. Length: 132 Minutes.

Stars: **** Verdict: Beautifully remastered on DVD and Blu-ray, this is the most faithful recreation on the story of Commanding Lieutenant William Bligh and Master's Mate Fletcher Christian and the mutiny on the H.M.S. Bounty in 1789 during an expedition to Tahiti.

Written by Oscar winning "A Man For All Seasons," "Doctor Zhivago" and "Lawrence of Arabia" screenwriter Robert Bolt, and originally intended as a two part epic to be directed by legendary director Sir David Lean, Part One called "The Lawbreakers," that dealt with the voyage out to Tahiti and the subsequent mutiny, and the second part was to have been named "The Long Arm," a study of the journey and the mutineers after the mutiny, as well as the admiralty's response in sending out the frigate HMS Pandora.

Based on the book "Captain Bligh and Mr. Christian" by Richard Hough, and now helmed with Roger Donaldson replacing David Lean, this fifth big screen version of the legendary mutiny is an intelligent, invigorating and resounding triumph thanks to the firm and respectful direction by Roger Donaldson, breathtaking cinematography

by Arthur Ibbetson and a haunting music score by Vangelis.

The A-Grade cast are all right at the top of their game including Anthony Hopkins in a spellbinding performance as the ill-fated Commander William Bligh, Mel Gibson superb as Fletcher Christian, along with screen greats Laurence Olivier and Edward Fox, and early screen roles for Daniel Day-Lewis and Liam Neeson, First filmed as "Mutiny on the Bounty" in 1916, followed by "In The Wake of the Bounty" in 1933 with Errol Flynn, the more fictionalized "Mutiny on the Bounty" in 1935 with Charles Laughton and Clark Gable and the beautifully filmed but overbloated and melodramatic disaster "Mutiny on the Bounty" in 1962 with Marlon Brando, this latest version of the legendary story is the most compelling and haunting of all, as exciting an adventure on the high seas as it can get!

- James Sherlock

Rourke’s Reviews At The Astor

■ Christmas has come early for John Carpenter fans, as brand new 4K restorations of some of his most iconic films will be shown on the huge Astor screen.

For those who have never seen these films, then this will be the best possible way for you to experience them.

For the rest of us who have, then it will be wonderful to see them in a cinema again.

The highly influential filmmaker, who hasn't helmed a feature since the uneven The Ward in 2010, made a triumphant return to the big screen this year, composing the excellent music score for the otherwise forgettable Halloween reboot, collaborating with son Cody.

For more details, please contact The Astor on 9510 1414, or check online at www.astortheatre.net.au Happy viewing.

The Fog

■ (M) (1980). 91 minutes. Thursday December 13, 7.30pm. ****½ After achieving cult followings with Dark Star (1974) and Assault On Precinct 13 (1976), then major box-office success with Halloween (1978), John Carpenter ventured into supernatural territory with The Fog, and delivered a supremely stylish and atmospheric ghost story, which has garnered a beloved fanbase over the ensuing 38 years.

Set in the small coastal town of Antonio Bay, the story moves between popular radio DJ and single mother Stevie Wayne (Adrienne Barbeau), hitchhiker Elizabeth (Jamie Lee Curtis), Nick (Tom Atkins), the friendly local who picks her up, council official Kathy Williams (Janet Leigh), and melancholic priest Father Malone (Hal Holbrook), all of whom have to deal with a deadly, century-old curse, connected to a ship's crew that were deliberately run aground by the town founders.

As the body count begins to rise, this main group try to figure out what is going on and why, and what can be done to stop it.

Carpenter and cinematographer Dean Cundey (who teamed up for a total of five times) afford the film a gorgeous widescreen sheen, while a strong cast make sure the film maintains a solid human centre.

Those wanting graphic gore will be disappointed, but those who prefer a film dripping in atmosphere, then The Fog will hit a resounding bullseye.

There was a remake in 2005, but the less said about it the better.

Escape From New York

■ (M) (1981). 99 minutes. Thursday December 13, screens after The Fog. ****½ Yet another of Carpenter's western homages, this sci-fi take on the Man With No Name is an absolute treat, making the most of the first substantial budget ($6 million) handed to him.

The year is 1997, and New York

has become a maximum security prison, with the city walled off and under heavy military supervision.

When the plane carrying the President of the United States (Donald Pleasence) crash-lands inside, Security Chief Hauk ( Lee Van Cleef) enlists the help of Snake Plissken (Kurt Russell), a former green beret recently arrested for armed robbery, and who doesn't care about the fate of the Commander in Chief.

Forced to complete the mission within a tight time frame, Plissken will encounter dangerous criminals and crazies, while also securing help from a ragtag group of inmates (played by Harry Dean Stanton, Ernest Borgnine, and Adrienne Barbeau), but his foe is a formidable one, namely The Duke (Isaac Hayes), who controls New York with an iron fist.

What seemed like a far-fetched premise in 1981 seems less-so today, but Carpenter and co-writer Nick Castle never forget to keep the tale entertaining, and the director fills the movie with terrific, eccentric performances.

Like Halloween and The Fog, this a great-looking film, with Carpenter using locations to maximum effect. Russell is wonderful in a role he would return to in 1996's Escape From L.A. A proposed remake has been in the pipeline for years, with everyone from Gerard Butler to Chris Hemsworth being touted to play Plissken.

The Thing

■ (MA) (1982). 109 minutes. Friday December 21, 7.30pm. ***** Laced with stunning effects that still astound today, this remake of the 1951 classic was a critical and box-office disappointment when first released, but has since gone on to be deservedly re-appraised as one of the best horror/sci-fi movies ever made.

The team at an Antarctic US research station suddenly find themselves under siege by an aggressive alien organism, which can perfectly imitate other life-forms, leading to paranoia and chaos.

Carpenter is in peak form here, perfectly blending his love for the Howard Hawks produced (and many say directed) version with a more faithful adaptation of the 1938 novella by John W. Campbell Jr., solidly encapsulated by screenwriter Bill Lancaster (son of Burt).

There is exceptional lensing once more by cinematographer Dean Cundey, a creepy, minimalist score by Ennio Morricone, and some of the most inventive and imaginative practical special effects seen on the big screen (created by Rob Bottin, who also worked on The Howling and Robocop), craftsmanship which inspired an entire generation of make-up artists. The cast is superb, headed by Carpenter regular Kurt Russell, and includes Keith David, Richard Masur, Wilford Brimley, David Clennon, Donald Moffat, Richard Dysart, and Charles Hallahan. A prequel was produced in 2011, but in reality it was a thinly disguised remake, lacking everything that made the 1982 version so special.

- Aaron Rourke

Top 10 Lists

DECEMBER 9-15 THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. CREED II. 2. THE GRINCH. 3. BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY. 4. FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE CRIMES OF GRINDELWALD. 5. 2.0.

6. A STAR IS BORN. 7. ROBIN HOOD. 8. WIDOWS. 9. THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS. 10. THE CHILDREN ACT. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: DECEMBER 6: ANNA AND THE APOCALYPSE, CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME? CLIMAX, ELLIOT THE LITTLEST REINDEER, HOSTILES, LIFE ITSELF, MORTAL ENGINES, OVERLORD, SECOND ACT, STUDIO 54: THE DOCUMENTARY. DECEMBER 13: BLACK '47, ONCE UPON A DEADPOOL, PEPPERMINT, SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE. THE DVD AND BLU-RAY TOP RENTALS & SALES: 1. BLACKkKLANSMAN [Biography/Crime/ Drama/John Washington, Adam Driver].

2. BOOK CLUB [Comedy/Romance/Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen].

3. YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE [Thriller/Joaquin Phoenix].

4. INCREDIBLES 2 [Animated/Action/ Adventure/Holly Hunter, Craig T. Nelson].

5. KIN [Comedy/Sci-Fi/James Franco, Dennis Quaid, Gavin Fox].

6. DARKEST MINDS [Sci-Fi/Thriller/Bradly Whitford, Mandy Moore].

7. THE MEG [Action/Horror/Sci-Fi/Jason Statham, Li Bingbing].

8. MILE 22 [Action/Crime/Adventure/Mark Wahlberg, Ronda Rousey, John Malkovich].

9. ANT-MAN AND THE WASP [Action/ Fantasy/Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas, Evangeline Lilly].

Also: THE FLIP SIDE, LUIS AND THE ALIENS, THE EQUALIZER 2, SICARIO: DAY OF THE SOLDADO, MARY SHELLEY, THE SPY WHO DUMPED ME, JIMMY BARNES: Working Class Boy, HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3, SOLO: A Star Wars Story, THE BREAKER UPPERERS. NEW HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK: CRAZY RICH ASIANS [Comedy/Romance/ Constance Wu, Michelle Yeoh, Henry Golding].

A SIMPLE FAVOUR [Crime/Drama/ Comedy/Thriller/Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick].

THE PREDATOR [Action/Sci-Fi/jacob Tremblay, Boyd Holbrook].

CHRISTOPHER ROBIN [Family/Animation/ Adventure/Comedy/Ewan McGregor].

THE WIFE [Drama/Glenn Close, Elizabeth McGovern, Jonathan Pryce, Max Irons].

BEAST [Thriller/Johnny Flynn, Jessie Buckley, Geraldine James].

DVD AND/OR BLU-RAY NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSIC MOVIES HIGHLIGHTS: HOOK-4K-UHD + BLU-RAY [Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman, Bob Hoskins, Julia Roberts].

NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC HIGHLIGHTS: CRIMINAL MINDS: Season 13.

JOANNA LUMLEY'S SILK ROAD ADVENTURE. THE HANDMAID'S TALE: Season 2.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 61

Victorian History

The Upper Goulburn Country ■ “A series of articles on the Upper Goulburn country are being contributed to the Australasian by that able and well informed writer ‘Bruni’, which we shall have pleasure in copying into this journal,” reported the Alexandra newspaper in March, 1887: Mr. J. H. Chrystal, of Killingworth, kindly drove ‘Bruni’ to Alexandra in the early part of this month, where they were the guests of the president of the local agricultural associa tion, Mr. G. Lamont, who showed them over the Thornton district, with which the Australasian correspondent was highly pleased.

It is ‘Bruni's’ intention to pay Alexandra another visit at an early date, and make a thorough tour of the shire.

The following is the first article of the series: The railway has not yet penetrated far into the important agricultural and pastoral country which for some distance borders the Goulburn river before it leaves the mountain country.

The branch line to Yea leaves the North Eastern railway at Tallarook a station situated in what would be a most uninteresting country but for the bold rocky range which rises up a few miles to the eastward.

On leaving the main line there is a very sudden incline down to the Reedy Creek, after crossing which the line passes close in front of the old Tallarook homestead, between the home and the garden.

Just beyond this the river Goulburn is reached, at a point where the stream makes a sharp bend towards north.

Here the river emerges from a narrow valley, with steep rocky hills of considerable height on either side.

Through this valley, which is about a dozen miles in length, the railway runs along the northern bank. The river also hugs this side of the valley, and frequently its broad clear stream is seen close beside the railway line.

This valley has a wild unreclaimed appearance. The hills on both sides are very rocky, and often one sees great boulders delicately balanced high above the line, as if the slightest effort would send them crashing down the hill-side.

These rocky hills are the favourite haunts of holiday folk from Melbourne, and occasionally the train is crowded with young men, all animated with the most deadly intentions towards the game on the mountain, and the fish in the river.

The favourite trysting place for visitors in this locality is the comfortable little Traawool hotel, situated about midway between the Traawool and Kerrisdale stations.

The King Parrot Creek is seen on the way emerging from a deep glen to join the river. A large portion of the waters of this creek have been diverted near its head to swell the Yan Yean reservoir.

Beyond this the valley of the Goulburn opens out, the river flats increase in extent, and the hills on either side are of a much less wild character.

Near the Homewood station the train enters on an entirely different description of country to anything previous seen.

The high mountains recede, and one sees a stretch of country of great extent, composed of low rounded hills of graceful outlines.

● William Forrest’s engraving of the Upper Goulburn. Circa 1874-76.

The surface is everywhere believe that Yea will become an im- surface. "From the little I had seen clothed with a thick pasture and dot- portant country town. of the country I was greatly imted with handsome trees, which give "At the Yea railway station I found pressed with its great grazing capathe country the appearance of an Mr. J. H. Chrystal waiting with a bilities, but my estimate was far beimmense park. buggy to convey me to the low the reality.

Through this pleasant land flows Killingworth estate, one of the largOn Killingworth estate last year the broad, bright stream of the est and most valuable properties in Messrs. Gotch and Chrystal grazed Goulburn, bordered by extensive the district.

27,000 sheep, 770 cattle, and about meadow lands of the highest fertilThough only 505 feet above the 60 horses. ity.

During the year a large number sea, I found the climate in this localAfter passing through such a wild ity entirely different to that of of fat stock were sent to the Melglen as that near Trawool the travel- Melbourne. bourne markets, which realised exler experiences a most delightful The evening was closing in sharp cellent prices. sensation to see spread before him and chilly, and I was glad when, afThis year there are 21,000 sheep, such a pleasant land. ter a drive of four miles through a and 500 cattle on the estate, and the In all my rambles I have seen no series of beautiful rolling downs, we place has all the appearance of becountry that resembles this upper reached the Killingworth home- ing little more than half-stocked.

Goulburn district.

In the old squatting days nothing stead, just as the bold outline of the In some places the hills are like black range was becoming dim in but ruin was predicted for the rash those in the midland district of Tas- the deepening twilight. sheep farmer who settled down in mania, but they are much better, This curious change in the climate any portion of the country to the east grassed. directly one gets inside the fron tier of the Sydney-road.

What surprised me greatly was of the ranges in the north-eastern disThe country was said to give that in this district where the soil on trict I have often noticed. sheep the fluke and the footrot; they hill and dale is fit for agriculture, there A couple of hours ride by rail never grew to any size, their wool areso few farms to be seen. makes all the difference between a was weak and bad, and they never Indeed, in the trip to Yea a culti- most agree able climate and one in by any possibility became fat enough vated field is very seldom seen. which the heat is intolerable. Often for market.

Yea, the present terminus of this the difference in the altitude is This was, years ago, the strong branch of the north-eastern railway scarcely worth mentioning. belief of the sheep farmers over the system is a pretty little village, situKillingworth was held for many greater portion of Victoria, and yet ated in the most charming scenery years as a squatting station by Messrs. in this very country, which was given near where the Yea river, formerly Airey and Ker. such a bad name, I found one of the miscalled the Muddy Creek, joins It was then of large extent, the most attractive and extensive pieces the Goulburn. boundaries being the summits of the of sheep pasture ever saw.

The valley in which it lies is high surrounding ranges.

Ringbarking the trees has done a bounded by softly rounded low hills The selectors took a large slice deal to sweeten and improve the pasor downs occasionally rising to a out of the old run, and when the tures in the north-eastern district but sugar-loaf peak, which are covered present owners purchased the prop- the beautiful grassy hills of the upwith a thick sward of grass, their erty, about three years ago it con- per Goulburn could never have smooth sides dotted over sisted of about 11,000 acres of free- been anything but a wholesome paswith.handsome red-gums, and the hold land, and not an acre of lease- ture-land for sheep. graceful satin-skinned white gum. hold.

The view from KillingworthThe streets of the village are wellThe place had been much ne- house is a very beautiful one. Immade, and are planted with orna- glected, and since Messrs. Gotch and mediately in front is the broad river mental trees.

Chrystal became the owners it has flat, much of which is covered with The houses have a neat well been necessary to replace the old dead trees, the majority of which are eared-for appearance, which greatly tumbledown ring fence with a sub- of great height. disposes the visitors in favor of the stantial sheep-proof fence and to At some distance front the house place. form entirely fresh divisional fences. these dead trees are standing very Though there is no sign of bustle A fine large cultivation paddock thickly, and as the timber is admiin the village, neither is there any has been cleared on the river flat, rable for firewood these unsightly indication of neglect or decay. and a commencement his been trees will likely prove to be very valuYea is one of the oldest townships made in sowing European grasses. able. in this part of Victoria, and though On the opposite side of the river The splendid grazing capabilities not a very progressive town, is more of the property have been greatly im is the fine line of wooded-hills known likely to improve than deteriorate. proved by ringbarking the trees on as the Black Range. It rises steeply When the great agricultural re- the river flats, and in the small val- up, fully 1,200ft., above the valley, sources of the surrounding district are leys that run among the hills, and and extends eastward for many developed, there is every reason to clearing off the dead timber that in miles. All this rangy country has been

either selected or taken up under grazing license, and soon we may ex pect to see the forest that clothes the sides of the hill destroyed by ringbarking.

So far as I have been able to ascertain, killing the tress in the low country has little or no effect on the climate, save in those localities where there are strong prevailing winds ; but the results of all ex perience points to the folly of denuding high mountain ranges of growing timber.

I found the soil on the river flat fully as fertile as I was led to believe from its appearance. It is a deep brown colored loamy soil of great depth, and very free to work.

The grass is as thick as velvet pile, and plentifully scattered through the native grasses are rye grass and clover. The latter plant has found a congenial home throughout all the flats in this district.

So commonly is it met with, that many of the residents believe it to be indigenous.

Near the river I was shown a piece of land let to a Chinaman for tobacco growing. The variety grown is one held in high repute in China, the seed of which was imported by the lessee.

The crop is a most luxuriant one, far heavier than anything I have seen on the Ovensor the Mitta-Mitta.

Here I had a good opportunity of examining the soil. It breaks up as fine as an onion bed, and has the quality of retaining moisture. Before the late ruins set in, the soil would everywhere exhibit moisture halfan-inch below the surface.

It was no wonder that below the ripened seed stems of the grasses all over the flzts there should be any quantity of green feed.

From the Chinaman’s plantation we crossed a splendid grass paddock of moderate extent, on which the grass could not possibly be thicker.

In this field the dead timber has been cleared off and the heavy tussocks have bee long since killed.

Mr. Chrystal, the managing proprietor of the estate, told me he had fattened a bullock to the acre in this paddock.

Beyond this we came to a cultivated field, which was broken up ast year. It is indeed a bonny paddock, almost as level as a howling-green, and without a tree or stump in the cultivated portion. The crop sown was oats, I forget the yield, but Mr. Chrystal told me that after charging all the cost of cultivating, rent of land, ant incidental expenses, the crop left a profit of £5 lOs. per acre.

Another crop will he taken off the field this year, and then it will be laid down with a mixture of grasses, composed principally of rye grass, cocksfoot, and white clover. .

Fifty acres of flat ndjoining the field will be broken up this winter and sown with oats, the great crop of this district.

The farther we went into the flat the heavier became the timber. In some places there is a large quantity of living trees, consisting of red and white gums, which will prove of great value.

The white gum on these flats is of entirely different character to the satin-skinned variety which grows on the hills; often remarkably beautiful, but utterly worth less, otherwise, even for firewood. The wood of the river white gum is almost as valuable as that of the red gum which it resembles greatly.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 62 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 Melbourne

Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 37 Across

Across

1. Most private (thoughts) 6. Eyeball membrane 11. Pond plants 15. Made anew (2-7) 20. Impact sound 21. Genuine thing, the real ...

22. Hawaiian island 23. Paralysis disease 25. Woman's betrothed 26. ... & dime 27. Nodules 29. Artlessness 32. Easiest choice, ... option 34. Chess castle 36. Sparkled 39. From Emerald Isle 41. Call in on 43. Male duck 46. Provide (food) (3,2) 48. Dinners or lunches 49. Manufactured 51. Concept 52. Endlessly 55. Space flight organisation 56. Bucket 59. Humble (oneself) 61. Set of rules 62. Be introduced to 63. Animal welfare group (1,1,1,1,1) 64. Doctor's ... manner 67. Award ribbon 68. Ghastly 70. Encrusted 71. Black Sea port 72. Not as much 73. Sharpshooter, Annie ...

74. From Lone Star state 75. Line touching curve 77. Onward 78. Putrid 79. Revolve on axis 82. Crudely hearty 86. In flight 87. Acceptable 89. Car distance gauges 92. Immense time spans 94. Sauteed 96. Pollution haze 98. Tailless feline, ... cat 100. Hang unlawfully 101. Female sheep 103. Identify 105. Cathedral, ... Dame 106. ... & twos 108. Yoga master 111. Classic painting, ... Lisa 112. Survives longer than 114. Leaving workforce 116. Chilled 119. Japan & Korea are there 120. Cake level 121. Career sportsperson 123. Model, ... Macpherson 124. Acorn trees 125. Consequently 126. Capacity to remember 127. News 130. Maiden name indicator 131. Sinking in middle 135. Bequeath 138. Cocktail, ... colada 139. Capricorn zodiac symbol 141. Parmesan & basil sauce 144. Chasm 146. Golfing body (1,1,1) 147. Biblical first man 148. Meadow (poetic) 149. Intelligence 150. High spirits 151. Unseen observer, fly on the ...

152. Deep ditch 153. Baby bird shelter 155. The N of NB 157. Peacock's mate 158. Siamese 160. Information services 161. Power pole 162. Intoxicated 163. The M of YMCA (3'1) 165. Poisonous tree-snake 166. Liqueur, ... Maria 167. Uncertainties 168. Smooths 169. Dissolve 171. Steak cut (1-4)

172. Heavy horned animal 175. Jogs 176. Boys 179. X, Y or Z 180. Be defeated 182. Upon 184. Abrupt 185. Destitute 186. In the manner of (1,2) 188. Jazz legend, ... Fitzgerald 189. Rabble 190. Sacred 191. The self 193. Olden days, days of ...

194. Narrow roads 196. Type of lily 197. Defendant's bond money 198. Collier 200. Hawkers 205. Unwell 207. Moneylenders 210. Machinery serviceman 211. Captivated 212. Arabian sultanate 213. ... & papa 214. Vapour 216. Irish sweater style 218. Lots of 219. Imminent 220. Drawing up roughly 224. Comfortable chair 227. Jump 229. Mad Roman emperor 230. Adolescent 231. Honourable 232. Amateur radio enthusiasts 233. Church celebration 235. Fume-filled 237. Stagger 239. Actress, ... Russo 241. South American dance 244. Different 246. Embroils 249. Former Soviet region (1,1,1,1) 252. Complained 254. Gloss 256. Beatle, John ...

258. Angrier 259. Crazy 260. Herb garnish 263. Grow quickly, ... up 264. Knaves 265. Shotgun lead 267. Reduced, ... down 270. Homing bird 271. Slid 272. Outshine 273. Irish lass 274. Undisguised 277. Rotated 279. Heroic tale 281. House lizard 284. Just OK (2-2) 286. Spiders' traps 288. Was expert (in) 292. Deck over water 294. Arranges, ... up 295. Grieve 298. Sticker 300. Sultan's wives 301. Colorado ski resort 303. Volley of bullets 306. Exhale & inhale 308. Scarce as ... teeth (3'1) 309. Successor 311. Stingiest 314. Chilly 315. Clash 316. Flamenco instrument 317. Remove from washing-line 318. Deceased 319. Mosquito-like pest 320. Belgrade native 321. Afro or beehive 322. Spectacle glasses 323. Moaned wearily 324. Secrets, ... in the cupboard

Down 1. Terrible tsar 2. Hitler follower 3. More mature 4. Stares lasciviously at 5. Pairs 6. Weaving fibre 7. Gives off 8. Lit 9. Alters 10. Undeniable (facts) 11. Bobcats 12. Comedian, ... Ball 13. Nailfile (board) 14. Bar 15. Skating arena 16. Get by begging 17. Painter's stand 18. Pour with rain 19. Achievement 24. Singer, ... Redding 28. Dashing style 30. Small horse breed 31. Competes 33. Go too far with 35. Equal (2,1,3) 37. Vipers 38. Chopper actor, ... Bana 40. Retaliates (4,4) 42. Religious statues 44. Logic 45. Predicament, fine ... of fish 47. Uluru, formerly ... Rock 48. Long race 49. Distinguished conductor 50. Computer input (4,5) 53. Charged with bubbles 54. Metal extraction plant 57. Electrical device 58. Barristers 60. Ocean phase (3,4) 63. Easily 65. Viewed speculatively 66. Anxious 68. Engage (with) 69. Rove 76. Bigger 79. Exercise club 80. Majestic 81. Musical notes 83. Royal racecourse 84. Less wild 85. Japanese currency 88. Classifying 90. Confesses, ... up 91. Jug 93. Treat with O2 95. Concave mark 97. Constantly busy (2,3,2) 99. Mindless 100. Hair parasites 102. Street urchins 104. One's school, alma ...

107. Fool 109. Fish lungs 110. ... spumante 111. Timbuktu is there 113. Deceive (lover)(3-4) 115. Competitor 117. Ding ... dell 118. Remove peel from 121. Fine 122. Pizza herb 127. Taut 128. River-mouth triangle 129. Parent's mother 132. Embassy bosses 133. Absurd 134. Desexes 135. Fleeting 136. Spotted dog 137. Closets 138. Long thin cigar 140. Mushroom relative 141. Alias 142. Groups' representatives 143. Tyrant

Down 145. Squander, ... away 151. FA Cup stadium 154. Wooden beams 156. Eye-watering vegetable 159. Fuss, ... & cry 164. Bushranger, ... Kelly 169. Complete task (3,2) 170. Architect, Frank ... Wright 173. Turning up (skirt) 174. Incapacitates (racehorse) 177. Positive electrode 178. Casseroles 181. Male rowers 183. Scottish emblem 187. Retriever dogs 192. French policemen 195. Atone for 199. Infuriate 201. TV award 202. Actress, ... Redgrave 203. Frighten 204. Ski-track 206. Singer, ... Abdul 207. Russian mountains 208. Sloped walkway 209. RisquĂŠ 213. Numerous 215. Pink-eyed rabbits 217. Loch ... Monster 221. Chops down 222. Bury 223. Biting fly 224. Authentic 225. Pursue 226. Pakistan's ... Khan 228. Legal trade bans 234. Compliance 236. Most avid 238. Conger 240. Convent sister 242. Diminishing 243. Early foetuses 245. Disillusions (4,4) 247. Uranus & Pluto's neighbour 248. Paris boulevard, Champs ...

250. Students 251. Wild ponies 253. Sunset 255. Utilised 257. Oil cartel 258. Moon about 261. Kremlin country 262. Responsible 265. Rounded stone 266. Drift (into coma) 268. Corrosive fluids 269. The D of AD 275. Take part in ballot 276. Frolic 278. Boosts morale 280. Ringing (of bell) 282. Famous English college 283. 21st birthday symbols 285. Cosmonaut, ... Gagarin 287. Summer shoe 289. Lucky amulets 290. Covered shopway 291. Mental pictures 292. Looked intently 293. Delight 296. Pig's grunts 297. Reimburse 299. Record's secondary track (1-4) 302. Introduce gradually, ... in 304. Abundant 305. Indistinct 306. Skin eruption 307. Hindu garment 308. London's ... Park 310. Polishes 312. Repeat 313. Soft knocks

Solution on Page g 42

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Page 64 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Observer Victorian Sport Melbourne

Brooklyn Bullet blitz ■ Young Mornington trainer Jason Warren was over the moon after the running of the Buildsafe Plate over 1000 metres at Moonee Valley.

His filly, Brooklyn Hustle, having her first start blitzed them, after missing the start by about two lengths, after drawing the inside ally.

Her jockey, Beau Mertens, said the hold up at the start, meant that she became too Relaxed whist waiting he felt that she nearly went to sleep.

She settled own last of the 11 runners, with Mertens preferring to let her get her feet.

By the time they had raced to the 400- metre mark she was still last giving the leaders a good 10-length start.

Mertens didn't panic, settled her, and then he railed up, prior to the turn and then got a split, but nudged the Hayes-Dabernig trained Namimo.

Mertens later received a suspension for the interference.

The daughter of Starspangledbanner running home her last 200 metres in 10.96 seconds, a time of the likes of Black Caviar and Winx.

Brooklyn Hustle is raced by the Rosemount Stud, under Anthony Mithen, who won the Geelong Cup this year with Runaway, trained

by Gai Waterhouse.

After Brooklyn's big win at the Valley, Warren was ecstatic saying that she is the best twoyear old he has ever had.

He added that when he worked with Lee Freedman before branching out on his own he worked with same nice fillies including the brilliant Blue Diamond Stakes winner, Alinghi.

Warren stated that he now has a worry off his mind with Brooklyn Hustle winning she qualified for the Blue Diamond Stakes to be run at Caulfield in February.

Her outstanding win was the talk of Moonee Valley, had the experts certainly taking about the star filly.

Jason Warren had a good sprinter a while back, in Bel Sprinter, who on his day could hold his own amongst the best.

Winx Number One

■ Scott Gullan from the Herald Sun has enlightened us with the news that Australia's champion racehorse, Winx, has been awarded the Secretariat Voix Populi Award for 2018.

It recognises the racehorse"whose popularity and racing excellence, best resounded with the general public and gained recognition for thoroughbred racing".

The four-time Cox Plate winner was the top choice among international fans representing 60 countries.

As Scott put it to the English upstart, Matt Chapman, who at about time of the time that Winx was getting ready to contest her fourth Cox Plate, he co mmented that she had beaten nothing throughout her career.

Scott's final word, "Cop that Chapman".

Well said, I whole heartedly agree with you in every way.

● Brooklyn Hustle’s sensational win at the Valley. Racing Photos Scholarship at the RCH, a life changing project at the hospital".

Ted Ryan

Christmas meetings

■ The stage is set for some very good country race meetings to be held over the Christmas period.

If you want a good day out, head up to Yea this Saturday for their amateur Christmas meeting at their picturesque track.

Always a popular meeting the picnic meetings at Yea have always proved popular with not only racing fans.

If you are heading up towards Wangaratta the local racing Club is holding a twilight meeting this coming Saturday with a good meeting set down for decision.

Bendigo, one of the major country tracks are racing on Sunday December 18, with plenty of action assured at the "Nursery of Champions", only an hour and half drive from Melbourne.

It's well worth having a look at their picturesque track and surrounds, especially their long standing old grandstand.

Sale will have their Christmas meeting on Sunday December 23, at their famous Green Wattle track, with plenty of action on and off the track with a big day planned for Christmas.

It is one of the most beautiful tracks and surrounds in the country area.

Werribee will race on Christmas Eve with plenty of things planned for their big day, and a big visit from Santa.

- Ted Ryan

$50,000 raised

■ Thanks to the Moonee Valley Racing Club, the Royal Children's Hospital Foundation, nearly $50,000, was raised through the Club raising that figure through the sale of their 2018 Cox Plate Carnival Charity Pins.

The pins were available to purchase meetings at the Valley from the Ladbrokes Cox Plate qualifier race day on September 8, all the way through to the Cox Plate Carnival on October 26 and 27.

They were also available through volunteer pin sellers at each event and at the Moonee Valley Legends, the Junction Club and LeighOak gaming venues.

The Royal Children's Hospital has been providing outstanding care to Victoria's children and their families for nearly 150 years.

Sue Hunt, the RCHF CEO, said "This incredible teamwork and contribution will support education and learning for RCH nurses through

● Jason Warren, trainer of Brooklyn Hustle. Racing Photos

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Wine Column Mudgee shows growth, diversity

● Pia Merrick and local winemaker David Lowe ■ I received a reminder recently of just how much the Central Western NSW winegrowing district of Mudgee had grown since the days I was working there as a young, recently graduated winemaker in the earlyto-mid-1980s.

The reminder came in the form of bottles of five different trophy winners from the 2018 Mudgee Wine Show.

Only one of the five producers was known to me as a participant in the Mudgee wine industry of those days, and even Robert Stein's vineyard was still a small child that had only just produced its first wines.

Petersons, best known as a Hunter Valley producer, had apparently planted its first Mudgee grapes in 1981 but had certainly never produced a local wine in my day.

The producers of the five wines are all known to me - except for Haydn and Erika Harrison's 1838 label, which takes its name from the year in which Mudgee was gazetted.

Indeed, I recall Robert Oatley's Rosemount Estate, based in the Upper Hunter, buying significant parcels of Mudgee red grapes in the late 1970s and early-to-mid1980s.

He'd tasted how rich the reds from the district could be, so I was hardly surprised when he decided to establish a vineyard at Mudgee.

The 2018 Mudgee Wine Show judging was done under the chairmanship of Mike DeGaris, with assistance from judges Annette Lacey, Usher Tinkler, James Horsfall and Pia Merrick.

Apart from the three wines reviewed, five wines tasted also included Petersons 2012 Semillon (trophy for the show's Best Semillon) and Bunnamagoo Estate 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot (winner of the Carlo Corino Trophy for Best Red Wine not Shiraz or Cabernet).

The late Carlo Corino, incidentally, lived across the road from me in Mudgee and was for many years the chief winemaker at Montrose Estate.

WINE REVIEWS 1838 Wines 2018 Classic French-Style Rosé ($25, winner of trophy for Best Rosé Wine): A summary in a glassful of the sort of wine we should be drinking just so much of in many parts of Australia so much of the year.

Our climate, our lifestyle and, increasingly, our choice of food, so suit this dry, refreshing, zappy drink.

Robert Stein 2017 Reserve Chardonnay ($40, winner of trophy for Best Chardonnay): This wine soon loses the obvious oakiness it shows on first opening and reveals a stack of robust but round varietal characters in the stonefruit part of the flavour spectrum. It's a spectacular wine that shows just why Mudgee is regarded as a natural home for chardonnay.

WINE OF THE WEEK Robert Oatley Vineyards 2017 Pocketwatch Shiraz ($17, winner of trophy for Most Outstanding Red Wine of Show): for me, this is what Mudgee is all about hearty, fill-flavoured dry reds. The name celebrates Robert Oatley's ancestor, James Oatley, a convict and watchmaker who rose to become Keeper of the Sydney Town Hall Clock. The wine shows plenty of dark-berry flavours and will certainly reward medium-tolong-term cellaring.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 69

Deck-Doc

Local company chosen as best in the world

For many years Deck-Doc has been supplying retailers throughout Australia with their premium range of timber and decking oils.

For the past three years, Deck-Doc has been predominantly selling their products online to service the whole of Australia as well as international customers.

Deck-Doc was recently chosen over other companies to supply their oils to an international company and is in the process of sealing an agency agreement for exclusive distribution and selling rights in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Deck-Doc timber oil is environmentally friendly and the business has been manufacturing unique, lanolin-based timber oil in Geelong for 15 years.

The formula was developed by Robert Hylands to preserve the natural oils and tannins in the timber.

The timbers oils and tannins determine the colour of the timber.

If the tannins dry out, the timber will lose its own natural colour.

The formula is made up of many different plant oils, waxes and lanolin and designed to stay soft and pliable when absorbed into the surface layers of the timber, therefore will not solidify and form a hard membrane of the surface.

It will move with the timber during all weather conditions preventing water absorption and drying out of the tannins.

Mr Hylands first developed the timber oil when he noticed there was nothing on the market that preserved the timber and protected the timber’s natural colour.

Before his time at Deck-Doc, he gained experience when he owned a factory making hand carved, handpainted wooden decoy ducks for duck hunters.

The timber used for the ducks had to maintain its natural colour and stay on the water without absorbing moisture.

After extensive research, he found lanolin (wool grease) gave excellent water repellency as well as UV protection.

Mr Hylands developed lanolin-based timber protection oil and found the water-repellent protection and preservative way far superior and says lanolin is “Nature’s natural UV protection”.

Lanolin comes from the wool of sheep and is extracted from the fleece.

It is a substance that waterproofs, insulates, and protects sheep from the cold, wind, rain and harmful CV sun rays.

Deck-Doc uses the best merino wool to extract lanolin.

Throughout history ancient mariners such as the Vikings used lanolin to protect, waterproof and preserve the wooden boards on their ships.

Many of the ships were away from their home bases for many years and their ships were subjected to wild storms at sea.

They survived thanks to the protection of Lanolin.

Deck-Doc invites all to visit their showroom in Moolap for free advice in a number of important issues concerning timber care.

There is a large selection of timber types that have been exposed to severe weather conditions, enabling people to understand the importance of choosing a suitable timber type. for the right application.

Also know what happens to the different types of decking stains and coatings, how they weather, and the maintenance required.

The friendly staff have useful hints for anyone preparing to build a new deck.

Page 70 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Rural News

SUMMER IS HERE, ORDER YOUR TANK NOW

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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 12, 2018 - Page 71

Page 72 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Learning to Ride

Balance Bikes from Ivanhoe Cycles Balance Bikes (also called training bikes) are pedalless bikes designed to provide fun and exercise and to teach the basic skills of steering, balance and co-ordination.

They are suited to a child from 2 to 5 years of age.

The child simply sits astride the balance bike and "walks" while steering with the handlebars.

It effectively allows them to learn balance without having to learn to pedal at the same time. It cuts the learning "gradient" down. They are also called pre bikes or first bikes.

Balance bikes are becoming increasingly popular, as it is so much easier to learn to ride. Learning to ride can be achieved at their own pace. A less confident child can “walk� it around for as long as they like, then

when ready, they can gradually lift their feet and scoo along until they are ready to simply push off and jus roll along.

More confident kids will be flying around with huge smiles in no time at all.

Because they have a sturdy aluminium or steel frame and well constructed wheels they are virtually trouble free, and can be passed down from child to child.

BYK E250L PURPLE $219

GIANT PRE BIKE - RED $199

Mongoose Lilgoose WNR Girls Balance Bike 12 Inch $179

Byk E250L Purple - Girls 14inch Balance Bike

12 inch boys balance bike that is a perfect gradient for learning to ride a real bike

The low stand-over height makes it very easy to get on and off the bike,

LIL ZOOMER BALANCE BIKE - GREEN $99

BYK E200L $189

Little Zoomer Balance Bike in any colour. A fun way to teach balance and coordination! Suitable 2-4 years.

Byk E200L. Balance Bikes make it so much easier for your child to learn to ride.

MONGOOSE LILGOOSE WNR BOYS BALANCE BIKE 12 INCH $179 The Mongoose Lilgoose Balance bike is not only one of the cutest designs we've seen on a training bike.