Melbourne Observer. 121003C. October 3, 2012. Part C. Pages 45-64

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 45

Page 46 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 47

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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Veritas: Radio, TV criticism. No fear ............ Page 49 Radio Confidential: Gossip around Victoria ...... Page 50 Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre shows, news ...... Page 53 Jim and Aaron: Hooray! Jim Sherlock returns ............ Page 56 PLUS THE LOVATTS MEGA CROSSWORD SPORT: Thoroughbreds, Harness Racing, Footy Week

ADULTS ONLY PANTO ‘Barassi’ story deserves to be told

● Stephen Smith , Julie Houghton at Fat Swan

● At left: Natalie Portly i(Trevor Ashley) in Fat Swan At right: Natalie Portman in Black Swan ■ Three things need to be made perfectly clear about Fat Swan, the adults only pantomime, which opened on Thursday at the George Fairfax Studio at the Arts Centre: In no way does the show have any connection with the Black Swan horror film starring Academy Award-winning Natalie Portman, and Mila Kunis.

The two-act show is jam-packed with offensive language, simulated sex scenes, non-simulated sex scenes and former TV celebrities.

TrevorAshley is appearing as Shirley Bassey in Melbourne in 2013.

Trevor Ashley has teamed with Phil Scott to pen a pottymouthed romp, full of single entendre, complete with panto devices of reluctant audience member participation, Mintie-tossing to the “boys and girls”, and classic panto yells of “behind you”.

Ashley gives everything to his role, just as he did in Hairspray, Priscilla, and just recently as Franz Liebkind in The Producers for The Production Company.

Trevor Ashley brought Fat Swan to the Spiegeltent earlier this year. Now, the production returns to Melbourne with Genevieve Lemon as the pushy stage mother Barbara Hershey-Bar, channelling Mommie Dearest. Lemon has returned to Australia after a two-year West End season with Billy Elliot.

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● Mitchell Butel with Patrick Brammall

Well rehearsed ad libs

● Aleksa Kurbalija with Vito Mattarelli

The ad libs between Ashley and Lemon, most of them meticulously rehearsed, are a comic delight. So too are the lighting mishaps, cleverly designed by Matthew Marshall.

One of Lemon’s past roles was ‘Rabbit’ in Prisoner. It was great to see former cellmate Betty Bobbitt (‘Judy Bryant’) in the opening night audience.

Also appearing in the four-hander are Priscilla-alumnus Danielle Barnes as a lesbian ballerina with a dark side, and Brendan Moar as the challenged director. Barnes brings an athletic, fruity, raunchy performance. Moar, familiar from The Renovators, even dons the leotards for the opening and closing scenes.

In the earlier season, Tara Morice and Lisa Adam owned roles. Fat Swan is directed by Garry Scale; choreographed by Cameron Mitchell; and designed by James Browne.

The show is not for everyone, particularly those with distended body parts.

● Brian Dixon with Russell Riobinson at the opening night of Barassi at The Athenaeum ■ The stage production of Barassi, which opened last Wednesday at the Athenaeum Theatre in Collins St, far exceeded expectations. It is an important Melbourne story that deserves to be told.

The telling is done respectfully to the life of the 76-yearold football legend, but also entertainingly by a nine-member ensemble, produced by Alan Jager, and directed imaginatively by Terence O’Connell.

The show under-promises, and over-delivers.

Steve Bastoni is promoted in the lead role as the football player, coach and commentator ... but the spotlight should be shared (if not dominated) by Chris Asimos, who plays the younger Barassi (as well as his Ron Barassi Snr).

Writer Tee O’Neill has captured the real-life Barassi’s determination to live up to the standards of Barassi Senior, a Melbourne player who was the Victorian Football League’s first casualty in World War II. Enter football ‘foster father’ Norm Smith, played meticulously by Matt Parkinson. Just before the opening night performance, Matt even made a pilgrimage to Smith’s statue at Jolimont, to pay his salute.

The show is held together by Collingwood footy fan Melba, crafted skilfully by Jane Clifton, who steers the audience through decades of Melbourne history.

Amanda LaBonte cleverly plays the multiple roles of Barassi’s mother Elza, first wife Nancy, second wife Cherryl ... and footballer Ted Hopkins!

The ensemble provides a number of surprises.

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Politically incorrect

● Chris Ryan with Simon Anstey

This reviewer sat behind comic impressionist Gerry Connolly, who laughed and applauded, but appeared not to return for the second act, after making a speedy exit up the stairs at interval to be elsewhere. Gerry would have laughed and applauded more had he been able to stay.

Fat Swan is a theatre delight, especially for Melbourne’s theatre set looking for a relaxed ‘night off’, away from political correctness.

The season comprises 11 performances only, closing this Saturday (Oct. 6).

Reviewer Simon Parris, of Theatre People, urges: “Get some friends together, have a drink or three beforehand, and prepare to laugh yourself silly at Fat Swan.”

Yes, find a friend with body dysmorphia, and a host of other complications, and make a night of it. ‘Natalie’ and ‘Mila’ do.

- Review by Ash Long

● Kate Langbroek with Maryanne Carroll

Page 48 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 49

Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler IS ANYONE AT THE CONTROLS? Media Flashes

ShowBiz!

For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven.

■ Monday, October 8. Confident his epilepsy is under control, Andrew focuses on making Charlie’s a success but Chris sees he misses Summer and Tash; Rhys takes his frustration out on Georgia.

■ Tuesday, October 9. Tash softens towards Andrew and chooses to protect his secret; Jade tries to protect Kyle by hiding how much she’s enjoying her new life.

■ Wednesday, October 10. Summer embraces spontaneity and makes a move on Bradley; Tash agrees to help Andrew but tries to hide the sympathy she feels for him; Susan fears Bradley might be interested in her.

■ Thursday, October 11. A worrying dream about Bradley’s attraction to her forces Susan to realise she needs to put an end to it; Kyle struggles with Jade's last day in Ramsay Street.

■ Friday, October 12. Vanessa is uncharacteristically rattled by news of an unexpected visitor and works to get Lucas out of the house; Chris hopes he’s helped troubled Sophie.

Home and Away ■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7.

Synopsis not to hand when we went to press.

Melbourne Youth Music ■ Melbourne Youth Music (MYM) started its high quality ensemble programs in 1967, and 45 years later it is still going strong!

MYM has just announced its Ensemble Program for 2014, for musical youngsters up to 25, and it will offer eight orchestral, string, band and jazz ensembles.

MYM is forging a new partnership with Federation Square, to make 'Fed Square' a great meeting place for young music makers and their families, who rehearse every weekend during school terms.

MYM has not been immune from budget cuts, and one casualty was the John Antill Youth Band which was formed in 1976 for wind, brass and percussion students.

Sadly, the band was a victim of some necessary budget cuts in 2008, so MYM is delighted that in 2013 the John Antill Youth band is now back on the program, with new conductor Jemima Bunn.

Melbourne Youth Orchestra has a reputation of attracting high calibre professional conductors, and in 2013, it will welcome high profile guest artists Daniel Carter, Brett Kelly, Richard Gill and Eugene Ughetti, with repertoire ranging from Chicken Run to Tchaikovsky.

Melbourne Youth Jazz Orchestra will work with some of Melbourne's finest jazz musicians, names like Paul Williamson, Tamara Murphy and Steve Sedergreen, and will be performing at the Famous Spiegeltent, MYM's annual Bands Festival and on a regional tour with a performance at the Wangaratta Jazz and Blues Festival.

Aapplications for the 2013 MYM ensemble Program are now open and close on Friday October 26.

For more information or an application form, visit mym.org.au - Julie Houghton

■ 3AW might be at the top of the radio ratings tree, but Veritas wonders ‘how long?’ with some of the howlers that Program Director Clark Forbes’s station allowed to get to air last week.

As Melbourne braved the wet for the Grand Final parade on Friday, competitor 774 ABC was broadcasting live from the city celebrations ... whilst AW afternoon host Denis Walter was talking to a chef about barbecuing quail on footy’s big day.

To add insult to injury, the ABC put 3AW presenter Mike Brady to air, with his stirring rendition to the crowd of Up There Cazaly. It captured the pulse of this town.

Meanwhile, on Walter’s program, the chef continued to drone on about the finer points of cooking a bird that will never be on the menu of the traditional 3AW listener. ★ On the 3AW breakfast program, co-host John Burns pontificated about the Richmond City Council.

There has been no such organisation since 1994, when the City of Yarra was created. Cohost Ross Stevenson corrected Burns, as he so often does on matters of fact. ‘Burnso’ is regularly and arrogantly out of touch with so many Melbourne matters.

Melbourne’s self-titled ‘news talk’ station needs to know its city better. ★ On Friday night’s Nightline program with John Blackman and Philip Brady, the latter gave a lengthy plug to a $130-per-head dinner for Catholic seminarians.

It’s fine for presenters to push their favourite causes, but the summer Friday Nightline shows seem to be the spot for favourites, when co-host Bruce Mansfield is absent.

Nigel Williamson from Nigel’s Animal Rescue scores exhaustive air time.

Likewise, AW Promotions Manager David Mann would never obtain such indulgent air time if Bruce Mansfield was there.

Footy replay

● Melbourne Youth Orchestra

■ It’s their radio station, and they have every right to program it how they wish, but you have to wonder if anyone listened to the replay of the AFL Grand Final on Triple M on Saturday night.

Eagles legend at Palais

■ Glenn Frey, Eagles founding member, will perform with the Mebourne Pops Orchestra, at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda, on Friday, February 22.

Frey will perform numbers from his sixth album, After Hours.

Publicist Sue Camilleri says tickets will go on sale through Ticketmaster, 136 100, on Friday (Oct. 5).

● Glenn Frey

■ Writer Mike McColl Jones, speaking with Bob Phillips on 3RPP on Sunday (The Late, Late Broakfast Show), asked if Steve Wonder was responsible for the TV camera work at the AFL Grand Final (Seven) on Saturday. ● From Page 47

Barassi

● 3AW Program Director Clark Forbes

Veritas Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic

Dance Territories ■ Dancehouse presents the Australian premiere of Dance Territories: Sense and Sensibility (International) as part of the Melbourne Festival, from October 24 – 27 at 150 Princes St, North Carlton.

This intercontinental journey to the frontiers of modern movement brings together two internationally renown Swiss choreographers: Perrine Valli and Cindy Van Acker and two of Australian dance’s brightest stars: Sandra Parker and Matthew Day. Dance Territories is a statement that dance has no borders or black and white opinions -– it is an art form where creative intelligence circulates and inspires us differently, meaningfully and profoundly.

Celebrating 20 years, Dancehouse is the centre for independent dance in Melbourne. Through its programs of residencies, performance, training and research, Dancehouse is a space for developing challenging, invigorating, and socially engaged moving art. Dancehouse aims at being a genuine tool for the dance-maker, a catalyst for developing new audiences, and a facilitator of meaningful alliances and mobility schemes, in Australia and internationally.

Venue: Dancehouse, 150 Princes St, North Carlton Dates: Wed, Oct 24 – Sat, Oct 27 Tickets: $35 Adult/$30 Concession /$31 Group/ $30 Senior/$25 Student Bookings: dancehouse.com.au or 9347 2860

■ Retired footballer Russell Robinson has certainly found his stage legs. The ensemble - which also includes Richard Sutherland, Glenn Maynard and Bartholomew Walsh - put into very physical performances, almost ballet-like, choreographed by Alana Scanlan.

Costuming has been well handled by Jim Bishop, complete with ushers and theatre staff wearing ‘31’ Tshirts. The half-time (interval) hot pies on opening night were a nice promotional touch.

The set, designed by Nathan Weyers, resembles the familiar footy grandstands of our times. It is suitably lit by Jason Bouvaird.

The back-projection - with AV designed by Kim O’Connell, and animation by Georgie Pinn - provides superb Melbourne footage of the time, some of it rare colour moving images. There is a flood of newspaper front-pages, although this pedant picked one Argus headline, years after that newspaper had turned to dust.

Congratulations to Paul Norton who designed a sound package that incorporated audio and music of the time. There were too many opening night audio glitches that let down Paul’s good works.

Barassi is a little long. I thought Act One deserved an edit. Others said Act Two had one to many coach’s speech.

We wish this Melbourne production well. It will not be easy for it to be a commercial success. Melbourne’s footy brain switches off with the Grand Final siren, as our town turns to Bathurst, Spring Racing and summer diversions. Barassi would have benefitted by being in the theatre, a month earlier.

Likewise, it would be difficult to imagine the show working commercially in Sydney or Brisbane. Barassi is a show that deserves your cheer.

- Review by Ash Long

● Matt Parkinson with Glenn Maynard

■ 1st Friday Dance Club is being held on Oct. 5 by the City of Melbourne. Vibrant West African dance troop One Africa will take Melburnians on a rhythm fuelled dance fest at this free event presented at Queensbridge Square.

Page 50 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Observer Showbiz

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Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria

END OF SEASON

Country Crossroads

Appointed were station manager John Farmer, Peter Cassidy, football caller Paul Hooper and his offsider Phillip Edwards, Anthony Stanguts and Beth Ramshaw.

info@country crossroads.com.au ● Big Breakfast Show.

Southern FM 88.3.

Tues. 6am-9am. ● Country Crossroads.

Casey Radio 97.7.

Wed. 10pm-12 Midnight

Just repeating Rob Foenander

MELINDA IS A MUM

■ Aussie country music star Melinda Schneider and singer songwriter partner Mark Gable have become proud parents.

Sullivan James Gable was born on August 28 and is already responding to the dulcet tones of his singing parents. it is reported.

Melinda toured her successful tribute show Doris Day So Much More Than The Girl Next Door around Australia in 2011. Mark, who is the lead singer of Australian band Choir Boys, is also a radio host on NSW's Central Coast 2GO.

A ‘BOBBY’ FOR JIMMY

■ The late country music star Jimmy Little posthumously received the prestigious JC Williamson lifetime achievement honour at last week’s Helpmann awards.

The award was received by his long time manager Buzz Bidstrop who heads the Jimmy Little Foundation.

● Eddie McGuire ■ The Triple M Hot Breakfast team are broadcasting from New Zealand this week, billing it as their ‘end-of-season’ trip.

Eddie McGuire, Mick Molloy and Luke Darcy have travelled to NZ for the week.

Darcy broadcast his first AFL Grand Final at the weekend with Garry Lyon and James Brayshaw.

■ They say repetition is the mother of learning ... but it can also be the turn-off factor for radio listeners.

Jane Hall (Mix 101.1) is rehasing the same gags. The “how very dare you” line has done its course, as has “if you don’t hardly mind” If there is a list of people, Hall will recite it as “you’ve got your Brynne Edelstens, you’ve got your Jennifer Hawkins ...”

It was funny the first time.

3WBC AGM

McCLYMONTS AT CROWN

■ Multi award-winning artists and sisters The Mc Clymonts will perform at Palms At Crown on October 12 and 13. The performance is part of the group’s national Two Worlds Collide Tour and will be supported by former Australian Idol winner Wes Carr.

DANIEL’S NEW DVD

■ Country Crossroads will present a world exclusive with the release of A Friendly Chat featuring Ireland's superstar Daniel O'Donnell.

The DVD includes one on one interviews filmed with Daniel on both his 2010 and 2012 Australian tour and is a first of its kind anywhere in the world.

Daniel talks freely about his career, his fans and celebrity friends amongst many other subjects on this one-hour DVD. To order send cheque/ money order to Positude Productions, PO Box 1208 Huntingdale 3166, or go to www.countrycrossroads.com.au Phone 0418 304 625 - Rob Foenander ■ The Darebin Music Feast Songrwiters’ Award Grand Final will be held at the Northcote Town Hall on Sunday, October 7. It is a free event.

r Observbei z Show

iTunes release

■ Catherine Chadwick, publicity officer for Box Hill-based 3WBC 94.1 FM, reports that the station has held an annual general meeting.

● Jane Hall

● Guitarist and composer Matthew Fagan ■ The iTunes release of Matthew Fagan’s 1997 album Indigo Moon will be celebrated on Sunday, October 14 at 4.00pm at the Montsalvat Barn Gallery, 7 Hillcrest Ave, Eltham.

Indigo Moon has had national and international success, with more than 30,000 units sold.

An uplifting performance of Spanish, Celtic and New Age/ Ambient Music, the album and show highlights Matthew’s original compositions for orchestra and the new original 10 string guitar made by Australian luthier James Keith.

A highlight will be a special live performance of the piece Morning Song, which has appeared on television in its entirety for the closing love scene of Episode One of Season Two 2012 Winners and Losers.

Bookings: 9439 7712 or at door Tickets: $35 Full, $25 Concession, U12 Free Free entry to the exhibition for people that attend the concert.

- Cheryl Threadgold

Tim Draxl returns to Melbourne ■ After a sell-out triumph at the Sydney Opera House, Tim Draxl returns to Melbourne in the acclaimed musical play Freeway – The Chet Baker Journey, from October 16 - 20 at the Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre, 100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne Conceived and written by Bryce Hallett and Tim Draxl, the intimate show intersperses fragments of Chet Baker's radiant career and self-destructive life, amid his sparkling musical jewels - the "blue diamonds of jazz" - that spoke of destiny, heartache, despair and love.

Freeway is packed with poignant ballads and classic songs, including My Funny Valentine, My Buddy, Let's Get

● Tim Draxl

Lost, These Foolish Things, You Don't Know What Love Is, Look For The Silver Lining, Born To Be Blue, That Old Feeling and There Will Never Be Another You. Draxl appeared in Melbourne more than a decade ago in She Loves Me for The Production Company.

Performance Dates: October 16 – 20 (Six performances only) Venue: Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre, Melbourne Tickets: $55 Full, $49 Concession, $25 Students Bookings: 1300 182 183 or artscentremelbourne.com.au or Ticketmaster 136 10 Melbourne

Observer

On This Day

Wednesday, Thursday, October 4 October 3

Friday, October 5

Saturday, October 6

Sunday, October 7

Monday, October 8

Tuesday, October 9

■ Tennis player Neale Fraser is 79 (1933).

Gore Vidal, American author, was born in 1925. He died aged 80 in 2012.

Australian actress Noeline Brown was born in Sydney in 1938 (74).

American singer Chubby Checker is 71 (1941).

■ Australian actress Anne Haddy was born in 1930. She died aged 68 in 1999.

Actress Diane Cilento was born in 1933. She died aged 78 last year.

Irish singer songwriter Bob Geldof was born in 1951 (61).

Wilbur Wilde (Nick Aitken) is 57 (1955).

■ American actress Carole Lombard was born in 1980. She died aged 34 in 1942.

Cricketer Richie Benaud is 8 (1924).

Swedish actress Britt Ekland was born in Sweden in 1942 (70).

Cricketer Tony Greig was born in Queenstown, South Africa, in 1946. He is 66 today.

■ US singer Al Martino was born in 1927.

He died aged 82 in 2009.

TV presenter and author Clive James is 73.

American singer John Mellenkamp is 61 (1951).

Skating champion Jayne Torvill was born in 1957 (55).

■ Australian actor Paul Hogan was born in Lightning Ridge in 1939 (73).

Actor David Caradine was born in 1940. He died aged 68 in 2009.

Actor Chevy Chase was born as Cornelius Chase in 1943 (68).

Actress Sigourney Weaver (Susan Weaver) was born in New York in 1949 (63).

■ Guitarist and vocalist John Lennon was born in Liverpool in 1940. He died aged 40 in 1980.

US singer songwriter Jackson Browne was born in Germany in 1948 (64).

Celebrity Sharon Osbourne is 60.

Jennifer Hansen is 48.

■ Radio-TV personality Terry Dear was born in 1913. He died aged 81 in 1995.

American actor Charlton Heston was born in 1922. He died aged 84 in 2008.

English writer Jackie Collins is 75 (1937).

Actress Susan Sarandon was born in 1946 (66).

Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates.

Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

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Observer Showbiz AUDITIONS ■ Windmill Theatre Company: Phantom of the Opera October 19 at 7.30pm, October 21 at 9.00am and October 24 at 7.30pm callbacks at the Berwick Leisure Centre, Manuka Rd., Berwick. Director: Chris Hughes; Musical Director: Julia Buchanan; Choreographer: Robert Mulholland. Audition bookings: call Kylie after Bus. Hours 9700 6603.

■ Encore Theatre Inc: Summer of the Seventeenth Doll (by Ray Lawler) October 21 from 2.30pm and October 23 from 7.30pm at Fleigner Hall, 31 Highland Ave., East Oakleigh.

Director: Trevor Trask. Audition bookings: 9830 1669.

■ Sunshine Community Theatre Inc: Jen and Her Magic Mud September 23 at 2.00pm at the Dempster Park Hall, Phoenix Street, North Sunshine. Director: Lee Cook. Audition bookings: 0407 802165.

REVIEW: FOUR ACCORDIONISTS OF THE APOCALYPSE ■ Although there are some terrific farcical elements to this La Mama production, its hectic pace demands rather more clarity of vocals, both spoken and sung, to fully carry off the complexity of the theme.

We are led at a frenetic pace on a crazy path, crisscrossing a crisis in fertility, Norse gods playing devious games, global warfare, and social crises.

The musical Fugue motif inter layers the aforementioned theatrical journey with energy and wit. Emma Louise Pursey is particularly successful as the midwife in grabbing and holding our interest.

The four accordionists of the title are represented by a now globally unnecessary midwife heading towards a new career in music, an accordion addict, a defiant Valkyrie, and a symbolic “human accordion!” All are booked by Frigg, Norse goddess of fertility, to play at the Apocalypse which will determine whether or not humanity as we know it will survive.

Since accordion music was such an integral part of the theme, it was disappointing to only have it played offstage .

There were some really witty modern allusions to employment agencies, extra marital affairs, caffeine addiction and family dynasties.

Set and lighting were adequate and functional. The costumes were terrific and clearly defined the characters. But all in all, this highly complex piece, despite its creative energy is a little uneven in delivery.

Season: Until October 7 Times: Wed, Fri 6.30pm. Thu, Sat 8:30pm. Sun 4:30pm Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St, Carlton Running time: 80 minutes Tickets: $25 Full. $15 Concession Bookings: Online www.lamama.com.au, 9347 6142 - Review by Maggie Morrison

Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

‘FARNDALE’ AT 1812 THEATRE AUDITIONS ■ The 1812 Theatre: The Farndale Housing Estate Townswomen's Guild Dramatic Society Murder Mystery (by David McGillivray and Walter Zerlin Jnr), October 28, 29 from 7.30pm at the 1812 Theatre, Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully.

Director: Tanya Ryder-Barnes. Audition Bookings: 0408 102323.

■ Brighton Theatre Company: The Female of the Species (by Joanna Murray-smith) November 18, 19 from 7.30pm at Brighton Theatre, Cnr Wilson and Carpenter Streets, Brighton. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Audition bookings: orbbaf@ozemail.com.au ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Steel Magnolias (by Robert Harding) November 17 from 1.30pm, November 19 from 7.30pm at 41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Lyn Carr. Audition bookings: 0422 441 489 or email lindacarr5@bigpond.com

All Shook Up

SHOWS ■ Dionysus Theatre: Exit the King (by Eugene Ionesco) October 5 - 13 at McClelland College Performing Arts Centre, Karingal (entry via Alexander Crescent). Director: Emma Sproule. Bookings: http://www.trybooking.com/brib Enquiries: bookings@dionysistheatre.com.au ■ Panorama Theatre Company: Footloose October 5 - 13 at the Frankston Arts Centre. Bookings: 9784 1060 www.artscentrefrankston.vic.gov.au ■ Croydon Parish Players: HMS Pinafore October 5 - 13 at Mahon Theatre, Aquinas College, Great Ryrie Street, Ringwood.

Director: Phillip Crompton. Tickets: $30 Adults, $26 Con., $20 Child. Bookings: 0447 014584 or www.CroydonParish Players.com ■ Babirra Music Theatre: Hello Dolly! October 12 - 20 at the Whitehorse Centre, Nunawading. Director: Sue Salvato; Musical Director: Hamish Paterson; Choreographer: Cameron O'Reilly. Bookings: 9262 6555 or www.babirra.org.au ■ Encore Theatre Company: The Kingfisher (by William Douglas-Horne) October 12 - 27 at the Clayton Community Centre Theatrette, Cnr Cooke Street and Centre Road, Clayton. Director: Lesley Batten. Tickets: $20 Adults, $18 Concession. Bookings: 1300 739 099 www.encoretheatre.com.au ■ Sunshine Community Theatre: There's More to Life Than Money and Sex (by John Marshall) October 12 - 27 at 82 Phoenix Street, North Sunshine. Directors: Donna and David Prince. Tickets: $15 Adults, $12 Concession. Bookings: 0407 802 165.

■ Catchment Players: Hairspray October 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 at 8.00pm, October 20 at 2.00pm, October 21 at 5.00pm at the Darebin Arts and Entertainment Centre, Preston. Co-Directors: Brad Fischer and Nathan Firmin; Musical Director; Andrew Houston; Choreographer; Nathan Firmin. Tickets: $42, Conc. $37, Ch. U16 $29. Bookings: 8470 8280 or www.darebinartscentre.com.au ■ Nova Music Theatre: 42nd Street, October 26 - November 11 at the Whitehorse Centre, Nunawading. Director: Tim Schwerdt; Choreographer: Lisa-Maree Callaghan; Musical Director: Phillip Osbourne. Tickets: $38/$33 Ch.15 and Under $28.

Bookings: 1300 305 771 or www.novamusictheatre.com.au ■ MLOC Productions: The Wizard of Oz November 9 - 17 at the Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Road. Director: Lucy Nicolson; Musical Director: Tanya Chaves; Choreographer: Keir Jasper. Bookings: 9570-4052. www.mloc.org.au ■ Beaumaris Theatre Inc: The Vicar of Dibley (by Richard Curtis) November 9 - December 1 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Road, Beaumaris. Director: Fred Pezzimenti. Cabaret style. BYO drinks and nibblies. Bookings: www.beaumaris theatre.com.au Enquiries: 9583 6896.

■ The Basin Theatre Group: Over My Dead Body (by Derek Benfield) November 9 - December 1 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Joe Tuppenney. Bookings: 1300 784 668. www.thebasintheatre.org.au

Lunchtime concerts

● Isabel Hertaeg in The Four Accordionists

Melbourne

Observer

■ Two young modern musical ensembles are embracing a major sacred work from the 17th century to present lunchtime concerts in the resonant space of St Paul's Cathedral as part of the 2012 Melbourne Festival.

From Tuesday October 9-Friday October 12, Dr Peter Tregear will conduct the professional vocal ensemble The Consort of Melbourne, accompanied by The Monash Sinfonia, the premier string ensemble of the Monash University School of Music - Conservatorium in a work written in 1680 by German composer Dietrich Buxtehude, Membra Jesu Nostri, The Illustrated Man. What adds interest to the music is that Berlin-based photographer Christian Herrnbeck has produced a series of images which accompany the score to provide a modern day commentary.

Turn To Page 59

● Robert Harsley (Jim), Natasha Bassett (Sylvia) and Natalie Trionfi (Henrietta), in CLOC Musical Theatre’s All Shook Up, opening October 5 at the National Theatre, St Kilda.

Photo: Richard Crompton ■ Award-winning CLOC Musical Theatre is preparing to take a nostalgic trip back to the days of slick hair, smooth talk, cool dudes and hip swivelling rockin’ good times with All Shook Up, opening on October 5 at the National Theatre, St Kilda.

This hilarious new musical is brought to life by spectacular dance routines, set in the 1950s and based around the songs of Elvis Presley.

These include Heartbreak Hotel, Love Me Tender, Don’t Be Cruel, Blue Suede Shoes, Devil In Disguise, Jailhouse Rock, Burning Love, It’s Now Or Never, C’mon Everybody, Follow That Dream and of course the title tune.

All Shook Up is directed and choreographed by Craig Wiltshire, with musical direction by Danny Forward.

Performances: Friday, October 5 – Saturday, October 20. Matinees: 2pm Sunday, October 7, 14 and Saturday October 13.

Tickets: Full price $45, Concession $40, Groups (15+) $40, Children $30.

Bookings: 1300 362 547 or www.cloc.org.au

SHOWS

■ Altona City Theatre: Sweeney Todd Until October 6 at the Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona. Director: Dean Mitchelmore; Musical Director: Ian Nisbet. All tickets $30. Bookings: 0425 705 550. www.altonacitytheatre.com.au ■ Sherbrooke Theatre Company: Slim Chance (by Peter Gordon) October 12 - 27 at the Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Road, Doncaster. Director: Helen Ellis. Tickets: $25/$23. Bookings: 1300 650 209.

WARRANDYTE 55 PLUS ■ Bookings are now open for the Warrandyte 55 Plus Variety Group's Remembering 50 Golden Years Concert, being held on Saturday, November 17 at 1.00pm for 1.15pm start at the Warrandyte Senior Citizens' Club Hall, 1-3 Taroona Avenue, Warrandyte. Tickets: $14.00 donation, include afternoon tea served after the performance. Bookings: Call Alan 9738 2216.

DINNER ■ The Bayside Group of Amnesty International are having their 20th Annual Dinner on Friday, October 19 at 7pm at the Memorial Hall, Sandringham Uniting Church, 14 Sandringham Road, Sandringham.

Guest speaker is David Nyuol Vincent who will speak about his journey as a refugee.

David was a refugee from South Sudan and as a child walked across the Sahara Desert into Ethiopia with his father, from whom he became separated. He was trained as a child soldier and spent 20 years in a refugee camp.

David was given a humanitarian visa to come to Australia in 2004, was awarded a scholarship and completed a BA in Political Science and Criminology at the University of Melbourne.

He has started a number of programs in Melbourne and South Sudan aimed at empowering South Sudanese to participate in decision-making and become agents for change. He is the author of the book The Boy Who Wouldn’t Die. Admission: $30 full price, $25 Conc. (25 per cent of takings will go to assist the people of South Sudan) Bookings by October 15: 9598 5500 or irfox431@tpg.com.au No BYO alcohol, wine will be available.

- Cheryl Threadgold

Page 54 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 g

y,

Melbourne

Observer

g

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

,

Lovatts Crossword No 11 Across

1. More droopy 6. Dig 11. Legendary gold city (2,6) 15. Having a poor ear for pitch (4-4) 20. Relations 21. Undue speed 22. Pen name, ... de plume 23. Gleefully chuckles 24. Tent supports (3,5) 25. Jesus' home town 27. Singing with trills 28. Prima donna 29. Writer, ... Thomas 31. The O of PTO 32. A wolf in ... clothing (5'1) 36. ANC hero, Nelson ...

37. Within house 38. Lovely 41. Dutch centre of govt, The ...

44. Fishing-line fibre 45. Sample 48. Way of life 49. Very busy 52. Goose & ...

56. Out-of-vogue star (3-4) 57. Small stone 58. Most uptight 61. Arduous experience 62. Foretold 63. West African nation, Sierra ...

64. Warms 65. Fools 66. Cleaver 67. Without artifice 71. Toadstools 73. Silly 75. Catastrophes 80. Ignore 82. Ice-cream desserts 83. Globes 85. Acting as go-between 86. Treat cruelly (3-3) 88. African disease fly 90. Nourishing drinks (3,5) 91. Bible song 93. Current flow rating 94. Interjectors 95. Ski headwear accessory 96. Military flying facility (3,4) 97. No part 99. Burial vault 100. Removed from power 104. Hoist (flag) 105. Cat cry 106. Of sheep 107. Leaseholders 111. Slightly wet 113. Crab's pinch 114. Have 115. Wrath 117. Pitch tent 118. Should, ... to 121. Tribal post, ... pole 122. Moved slowly 125. Field 126. Jump high 127. The ... of Capri 129. Assistant 131. Opposed to 132. Releases grip (4,2) 135. Among 136. Emerald Isle 139. Hordes 140. Scolded 144. Eagle's nest 145. Chick's call 146. Aimed 147. Disengage (train carriages) 148. Splendid (mansion)

Across

Down

149. Public square 150. Lacking originality 152. Customary 154. Baton races 157. Flying saucers (1,1,2) 158. Blabs 162. Matching outfit 163. Meagre 166. Flag down (cab) 167. Speech defect 169. Butterfly catchers 171. Biblical you 172. US moon rocket 173. Composer, Andrew ... Webber 175. Cloth fold 176. Chock 179. Culminate in (4,2) 180. Wash lightly 182. Recline, ... down 183. Repetitive strain injury (1,1,1) 184. Grind (meat) 186. Powder, ... of Paris 189. Thread 190. Peace pact 191. Sense receptor 192. Said 196. Tenant's payment 197. Bellow 198. Vermouth cocktail 199. Remnants 201. Playing for time 202. Harvesters 203. Roof overhangs 204. Last Russian tsar 205. Entangle 208. To the rear 210. Bridge designer 211. Sector 212. Outdoors (4-3) 213. Sinks in middle 215. Unfavoured horses 219. Lead-in 221. Sunday joint 223. Not perfumed 227. Juvenile 228. Ambassador's office 230. Move with effort 231. Cut wildly 232. Pillages 233. Mutilate 234. Admire 238. Delighted 239. First 240. Meal 243. Approval 246. Loosen 247. Dough ingredient 250. Corn husks 251. Out of style 253. Laughing scavengers 256. Frequent visitor 257. Female betrothed 258. Cease 262. Spy, ... Hari 263. Steak cut (1-4) 266. Ark builder 268. WA wine-growing region, ... River 269. Business income 270. Artist's medium (3,5) 271. Sewer coverings 272. Born as 273. Man-made fabric 274. Raises (the ante) 275. Climbs down 276. London/Edinburgh express, Flying ...

277. Lacy robe 278. Roomy

1. Confronts 2. Holed atmosphere layer 3. Erect (3,2) 4. ... out a living 5. Coming up (of sun) 7. Red pepper spice 8. Brutal 9. Michael Flatley's Lord of ... (3,5) 10. Simple 11. Famous volcano 12. Inclinations 13. Continually (2,3,2) 14. Phenomenal 15. Turrets 16. Actor, ... Sharif 17. Fire fragment 18. Remove from home 19. Misty 24. Pastime 26. Multitude 30. Lounges about 33. Barn dance 34. Distinguished 35. Actor, Sam ...

38. Ringing (of bell) 39. Nudged 40. Drama venue 42. Afresh 43. Unties 46. Junkies 47. Compared to 49. Cooperative 50. Top of head 51. List down 53. Non-believer in God 54. Roman moon goddess 55. Staff schedules 59. Proximity 60. Able to be rubbed out 67. Uncared-for 68. Traffic jam (5-2) 69. Undoes (envelope) 70. Sly suggestion 72. Opening 74. Telling 76. Debatable 77. Energies 78. Copy 79. Siblings 81. Until now 84. Mattress frame 87. Paint thinners 89. Called 91. Autocue 92. Insane lady 98. Fireplace shelf 101. TV host, ... Dingo 102. Egg shapes 103. Give work to 108. Stoat 109. Colloquial language 110. Inspire 112. Inventiveness 116. Feared Mongolian ruler (7,4) 119. Inattentive 120. Grotesquely 123. Small coffee cup 124. Welcoming 128. Clinging gastropods 130. Hero-worship

Down 132. Feebler 133. Fish commercially 134. Survive (3,2) 137. Turn out 138. Disgust 141. Granny Smith fruit 142. Cogwheel set 143. Personal memoirs 151. On dry land 153. Lucky charm 155. Dismiss (from college) 156. Map book 159. Desire for food 160. Tethered (4,2) 161. Pleads 164. Swiftly 165. Fluid unit 168. Laziness 170. Glimmers 173. Unused portion 174. Public referee 177. Filth 178. Coming into view 181. Water (pasture) 185. River flows 186. Allspice 187. Orange/pink shade 188. Libya's capital 193. Afternoon break 194. Vote back into office (2-5) 195. Wanted 200. Uniformity 201. Divide 206. Not either 207. Car horns 208. Takes into custody 209. Type of spanner 211. Appoints 214. Sultan's wife 216. Sissy 217. Austere 218. Disappoints 220. Hobo 222. Conscious (of fact) 224. Held tenderly 225. Subtleties of meaning 226. Infinite 229. Famous US university 232. Army dining room 235. And so forth (2,6) 236. Greek philosopher 237. Coffee drug 241. Legal trade ban 242. Lawsuits 244. Surgical blade 245. Kissing & cuddling 248. Eases off 249. Which 251. Repressed, ... up 252. Postage stickers 253. Hot & damp 254. Gains 255. Proverb 259. Moral principle 260. Eskimo hut 261. Cricket matches 262. Fix 264. Roughage 265. Midday 267. Padlock clasp

Solution on Page 37

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 55

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Page 56 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Observer Showbiz

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Movies, DVDs

With James Sherlock

Reviews by Aaron Rourke

What’s Hot and What’s Not On DVD and Blu-Ray

● Comic legend Billy Connolly shows no signs of slowing up on his latest trek across America's famed Route 66, a wonderfully funny, truly fascinating and even haunting journey that must not be missed.

FILM: Billy Connolly's ROUTE 66: Cast: Billy Connolly.

Genre: Comedy/TV. Year: 2011.

Rating: M. Running Time: 181 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***1/2 Verdict: Legendary comic Billy Connolly takes us on another fascinating and laugh filled journey, this time travelling one of the world s most famous highways, Route 66, a 2488 mile trike trip from Chicago to Santa Monica. At 70, there seems to be no slowing down as his passion for the wonders and people of this planet are unparalleled, and this superb new four part documentary series that is sure to delight, entertain and enthral in his own unique and unforgettable way.

FILM: BOARDWALK EMPIRE - Season Two: Cast: Steve Buscemi, Kelly MacDonald, Michael Pitt.

Genre: Crime/Drama/TV. Year: 2010/2011.

Rating: R18+.

Running Time: Assorted Running Times.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***1/2 Verdict: Excellent cast, direction, production design and intelligent writing continues with season two of this intense, moody character driven epic gangster series that chronicles the life and times of the undisputed ruler of Atlantic City during the prohibition era, who was equal parts politician and gangster. Produced by legendary Oscar winning director Martin Scorsese and Mark Wahlberg, this is a potent slice of adult entertainment that is a fine addition to the genre.

FILM: THE MIST: Cast: Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden.

Genre: Horror/Drama.

Year: 2007.

Rating: MA15+.

Running Time: 126 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: **** Verdict: Top notch horror-thriller of a freak storm that unleashes a species of bloodthirsty creatures on a small town, where a small band of citizens hole up in a supermarket and fight for their lives. A genuine edge-of-your-seat chiller brimming with nail-biting moments of schrill shreaking horror, dark humour, plenty of twists and even a homage to horror cinema, all brought vividly to life from Frank Darabont, the director of The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile.

FILM: CLUE: Cast: Tim Curry, Eileen Brennan, Lesley Ann Warren, Madeline Kahn.

Genre: Comedy.

Year: 1985.

Rating: PG. Running Time: 94 Minutes.

Format: DVD. Stars: *** Verdict: Fun filled little romp of six guests who are invited to a strange house and must cooperate with the staff to solve a murder mystery. A who-done-it? similar to the outstanding Sleuth and the hilarious all-starcast comedy Murder by Death, but sadly lacking the bite and spark that those deliver in spades. However, it does has some delightful moments thanks to the talents of a fine cast, who are seen to be enjoying themselves enormously.

Melbourne

Observer

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE'S MOST WANTED. 2. HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA. 3. THE WATCH. 4. DIARY OF A WIMPY KID - DOG DAYS. 5. RESIDENT EVIL: RETRIBUTION. 6. KATH & KIMDERELLA. 7. RUBY SPARKS. 8. THE SAPPHIRES. 9. THE EXPENDABLES 2.

10. BAIT.

● Ezra Miller from the film After School Leon is to investigate rumours that Bio Organic Weapons are being used, ■ (MA). 103 minutes.Available now where vicious creatures are controlled by humans infected with a particular on DVD. Provocative and quietly unsettling, virus.

Teaming up with rebel fighters, After School is a disturbing drama that Leon sees that the infection has spread, manages to get under your skin.

Ezra Miller stars as Robert, a quiet turning many citizens into zombies, teenager who is studying at an elite making his mission even more difficult. boarding school.

Despite clunky dialogue and oneEasily bullied by his so-called friends, Robert's only real compan- note characters, Resident Evil : Damion seems to be his computer, where nation still proves entertaining, thanks he roams the internet looking for vid- to an interesting, globally revelent seteos that are becoming increasingly up and some impressive animation.

Landscapes are convincing, and hard-edged.

Nobody can say or do anything any- the action scenes are well-handled, more without someone recording it and and are frequent enough to make sure the film doesn't bog down. posting it on-line.

The big disappointment is that the When Robert accidently films the drug overdose of two popular girls, film was never released in its original the school goes into damage control, 3D format, as many compositions and and Robert's state-of-mind becomes scenes would have benefited greatly fractured and dangerously discon- from the 3D experience.

RATING - *** nected.

Co-editor/writer/director Antonio Campos creates an incredibly suffocating atmosphere, showing Robert and other students existing in an emotional vacuum, where social media is the guiding, developing force in their ■ (G). 82 minutes. Available now on DVD. lives.

This informative, insightful docuMolded by easily accessible modern technology, which gives these mentary will certainly have you cravyoung people the ability to say, do, ing for food when the end credits berecord, and watch anything (rather gin to roll.

The subject is Jiro Ono, who is than engaging in genuine, positive human contact), this is a new genera- regarded around the world as the numtion where going to extremes is just a ber one sushi chef.

Having perfected his craft over six normal way of life.

Reminiscent in style and tone of decades, Jiro attracts customers from film-makers Michael Haneke (Hidden all over the globe, and has even re/ The White Ribbon) and early Atom ceived the highest star-rating from Egoyan (especially Speaking Parts), Michelin, making his unassuming, 10 and featuring a strong performance seat restaurant an extremely popular from Miller (who is better here than eating destination (people have to he was in the over-the-top We Need book months in advance).

We see the relationships between To Talk About Kevin) makes After School a challenging film that de- Jiro and his two sons (who have also become successful sushi chefs), the serves to be seen. small group of apprentices, food critRATING - **** ics, and of course the customers who can't get enough of his tasty creations.

Director David Gelb doesn't force himself into the lives of these people, a mistake a lot of modern documen■ (MA). 96 minutes. Available now tary film-makers make, and instead keenly observes, drawing out their on DVD and Blu-Ray. The Resident Evil juggernaut con- feelings and views about a line of work tinues, with this computer-animated they are obviously passionate about.

From the crowded fish markets to feature the latest to hit DVD shelves. restaurant, we are immersed in A follow-up to the 2008 CGI film Jiro's the meticulous process that has made Resident Evil : Degeneration rather this chef a world-renowned master. than the live-action series starring RATING **** Milla Jovovich, this has U.S Special ■ DVDs and Blu-Rays kindly supAgent Leon Kennedy being secretly plied by Video Vision, 177-179 dropped into a small East-European Carlisle Street, Balaclava. For inforcountry, where civil war has broken mation or bookings on these titles out between rebel fighters and the op- please call 9531 2544.

- Aaron Rourke pressive government.

After School

Jiro Dreams of Sushi

Resident Evil: Damnation

NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: SEPTEMBER 27: ARBITRAGE, LOOPER, ON THE ROAD, TAI CHI 0.

OCTOBER 4: I WISH, MENTAL, SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN, TAKEN 2.

THE DVD TOP SELLERS: 1. DARK SHADOWS [Horror/Comedy/Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham-Carter, Michelle Pfeiffer].

2. THE AVENGERS [Action/Adventure/Robert Downey Jr, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner].

3. MEN IN BLACK 3 [Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin].

4. MIRROR MIRROR [Family/Julia Roberts, Armie Hammer].

5. THE HUNGER GAMES [Action/ Jennifer Lawrence, Woody Harrelson].

6. THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL [Comedy/Drama/Judi Dench, Bill Nighy].

7. THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT [Comedy/Emily Blunt, Jason Segel].

8. THE WOMAN IN BLACK [Horror/Daniel Radcliffe, Ciaran Hinds, Janet McTeer].

9. THE WAY [Drama/Martin Sheen, Emilio Estevez, James Nesbitt].

10. AMERICAN PIE: REUNION [Comedy/Jason Biggs, Eugene Levy, Chris Klein].

Also: BEL AMI, THE PIRATES! BAND OF MISFITS, THE LADY, SAFE, SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN, BEVERLY HILLS CHIHUAHUA 3: Viva La Fiesta, W.E. THIS MEANS WAR, BATTLESHIP, 21 JUMP STREET. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: IRON SKY [Science Fiction/Udo Kier, Julia Dietze].

THE RAVEN [Thriller/John Cusack, Brendan Gleeson, Luke Evans].

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU'RE EXPECTING [Comedy/Cameron Diaz].

THE DICTATOR [Comedy/Sacha Baron Cohen, Megan Fox].

NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: THE MIST [Horror/Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden].

CAN'T STOP THE MUSIC [Musical/Comedy/Steve Guttenberg, The Village People].

ROMPER STOMPER: 20th Anniversary Edition [Drama/Russell Crowe].

TOWN WITHOUT PITY [Drama/Kirk Douglas].

LONELY ARE THE BRAVE/Western/ Drama/Kirk Douglas].

BARBARELLA: [Science Fiction/ Jane Fonda].

Turn To Page 59

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 57

Page 58 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 59

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 56

NOT HAPPY AT THE VALLEY

■ I was browsing through the Moonee Valley Racing Club's, On Track Magazine and was saddened that the Club is disappointed that after more than two years of workshops and discussions with the Moonee Valley Council that the Club has been unable to progress to vision since making formal submission of its Master Plan for redevelopment of the Moonee Valley Racecourse.

Since the MVRC lodged its rezoning application and Master Plan in October last year, it has become clear that they have significantly conflicting positions on several key development issues which has led to an impasse with the Moonee Valley Council.

The issues of greatest conflict include building height and setbacks, public open space, transport and heritage.

There appears no likelihood of a timely solution and therefore, MVRC has requested the Minister for Planning, Matthew Guy, to become the responsible authority in rezoning the racecourse site, and that he facilitates a process to allow the Club's proposal to be considered on its merits.

The Club has continued to communicate with the Council, while the Minister has been considering their request.

However, the significant and ongoing delays from Council's changing positions on a number of development issues will postpone rezoning approval on the site to late 2013.

There appears to be little prospect of resolving these issues unless Council is prepared to allow some flexibility and for MVRC'S proposal to get to exhibition and public consultation, with these delays presenting serious implications for the feasibility of the project.

Master plan

■ In June last year, the MVRC released details of its vision to reconfigure its racecourse and relocate the grandstand and to establish an exciting

Ted Ryan

Observer Racing

● Moonee Valley grandstand

and vibrant residential, commercial and mixed-use development on the Club's freehold land at Moonee Valley.

The Club has a landholding of 40 hectares and proposes to utilise eight hectares of land for residential, commercial and retail use that would be developed over a 15 to 20 year period.

The Master Plan contained the following components; Key Non-Racing Features ■ Provision for up to 3000 world-class townhouses and apartment-style dwellings over 15-20 years.

■ Afford able housing provision; ■ Enhancement of the Moonee Ponds area with new and improved facilities and amenities; ■ Improved Community services; ■ A modern community function centre and ■ Secure employment in construction jobs and, long-term, in commercial retail and other sectors.

Key Racing Features ■ A new four-tier grandstand with capacity for up to 10,000 spectators; ■ Site capacity of comfortably holding crowd of up to 40,000 on W.S.Cox Plate day; ■ A new grass track utilising contemporary innovations for water sustainability; ■ Extended home straight to 317 metres and increased track width to 30 metres;

■ Provision for key distance races of 1200, 1600, 2040, 2400 and 3000 metres; ■ New infield stripping stalls with a tunnel through to the mounting yard; ■ Greater use of the infield for car parking; ■ Efficient state-ofthe-art lighting and ■ Potential for up to 30 night race meetings annually;

Classic shorteners ■ After some great racing of late a number of top gallopers have shortened for some of our major races.

Coming up first we have the Caulfield Guineas with Pierro favoruite, according to the latest markets with Betstar.

At present he is being quoted at even money, but the big money is for his stablemate Proisir who bolted in scoring easily at Newcastle recently.

He by top sire, Choisir, and is showing plenty of promise.

In the One Thousand Guineas for the fillies, over the similar trip over 1600 metres, several have been backed, but I am sticking with Commanding Jewel, who led at Caulfield recently only to be run down in the last stride.

Her rider, Damien Oliver said after the race she will be better suited over the longer trip by being ridden off the pace, so the $6.50

● Artist’s impression of Moonee Valley development is very nice odds.

Cup were the AmeriIn the Caulfield can import, WinchesCup I liked the run of ter, prepared by John ■ At this time I don't I am Martha December Draw be- Sadler who flew whether or Arthur with racing hind Ocean Park, and home when it was all commitments. he has now firmed over at Caulfield.

As usual at this right in for the Cup. The other was the time of the year I will be at the Newmarket Last year he went good staying mare, Tavern on Caulfield around favorite in the Exceptionally, trained Cup Eve, Cox Plate Caulfield Cup, only to Eve and Derby Eve. break down badly and at Stawell, by Terry Each night will be missed nearly 12 O'Sullivan, who ran a doing tips for the big very good third in the race meeting the next months of racing.

I grabbed the $18 Naturalism at Caul- day and giving away prizes. on offer, and now he field.

Also I will be at She will stay as is into $ 13 favourite the Valley for the Cox for the Caulfield Cup. long as your mother- Plate hosting in the Betstar said two of in -law, and at $ 51.00 Tabaret, along with all the biggest shorteners is great value each my country Cup commitments. for the Melbourne way.

Busy times

Top 10 Lists NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: THE BRIDGE: Series One. PUBERTY BLUES: Series One. UNDERBELLY BADNESS. THE WIRE: The Complete Series.

THE BIG BANG THEORY: Seasons 1-5.

THE BIG BANG THEORY: The Complete 5th Season.

BLESS THIS HOUSE: Series Two. ON THE BEACH [Drama/Armand Assante, Bryan Brown, Rachel Ward].

VAMPIRE DIARIES: Season 3.

BONANZA: Season 4.

FLYING ACES OF WWII. HOMICIDE: LIFE ON THE STREET - The Complete Collection.

FRIENDS: The Complete Collection.

BOARDWALK EMPIRE: The Complete 1st and 2nd Seasons.

ADELE: Someone Like Me. HAVE GUN WILL TRAVEL: Season 2.

THREE'S COMPANY: Series 2.

I AM BRUCE LEE [Documentary].

ROBIN'S NEST: The Complete Third Series.

TOP BLU-RAY SELLERS: 1. DARK SHADOWS [Horror/Comedy/Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham-Carter, Michelle Pfeiffer].

2. BOND 50 (007/23 Disc Box Set): [Action/Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore].

3. INDIANA JONES: THE COMPLETE ADVENTURES [Action/Adventure/Harrison Ford].

4. THE AVENGERS: 2D & 3D [Action/Adventure/Robert Downey Jr, Scarlett Johansson].

5. MIRROR MIRROR [Family/Julia Roberts, Armie Hammer].

6. THE HUNGER GAMES [Action/Jennifer Lawrence, Woody Harrelson].

7. TITANIC Blu-Ray 3D + Blu-Ray [Drama/ Romance/Leonardo DiDacrio, Kate Winslet].

8. THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT [Comedy/ Emily Blunt, Jason Segel].

9. MEN IN BLACK 3-2D + 3D [Action/Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin].

10. THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL [Comedy/Drama/Judi Dench, Bill Nighy].

Also: Pirates: Band of Misfits, Bel Ami, The Woman in Black, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, The Lady, The Way, American Pie: Reunion, Safe, 21 Jump Street, Battleship.

NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: IRON SKY [Science Fiction/Udo Kier, Julia Dietze].

THE RAVEN [Thriller/John Cusack, Brendan Gleeson, Luke Evans].

ALFRED HITCHCOCK MASTERPIECE COLLECTION: Limited Edition.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU'RE EXPECTING [Comedy/Cameron Diaz].

ROMPER STOMPER: 20th Anniversary Edition [Drama/Russell Crowe].

PUBERTY BLUES: Series One. THE DICTATOR [Comedy/Sacha Baron Cohen, Megan Fox].

UNDERBELLY BADNESS. THE BIG BANG THEORY: Seasons 1-5.

THE BIG BANG THEORY: The Complete 5th Season.

SUSPIRIA [Horror/Jessica Harper, Alida Valli].

VAMPIRE DIARIES: Season 3.

BARBARELLA: [Science Fiction/Jane Fonda].

THE MIST [Horror/Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden].

I AM BRUCE LEE [Documentary].

- James Sherlock ■ From Page 53

Lunchtime concerts ■ Membra Jesu Nostri is a setting of seven medieval choral pieces, each address to a different part of the body of Christ - his feet, knees, hands, side, chest, heart and head.

With the surrounds of St Paul's Cathedral, the voices of The Consort of Melbourne and The Monash Sinfonia, directed by leading Australian violinist Elizabeth Sellars, audience members are sure to be transported into an ethereal world of beauty and power - at least for the hour that the concert lasts.

Bookings: Ticketmaster 136 100 or www.melbournefestival.com.au - Julie Houghton

Page 60 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

Kilmore Cup Day soon ■ October is with us and that means Kilmore Cup Day is not all that far away.

This year's cup sponsored by the Kilmore Equine Clinic will be held on Sunday October 28, supplemented by the Popular Alm Sprint and the Kilmore Trotters Cup. Make your dining packages early by contacting Kilmore Racing on 5783 0700.

Clear in shadows of post ■ Elmore's Phillip Dean combined with Bendigo based Nic Dyer to land the Evolve Accounting Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class (mares) over 2150 metres with Marita Louise Ok, a 5-Y-0 daughter of Wind Cries Maori and Wayinthedark raced

by Bendigonian Richard Holland.

Coming from 10 metres, Marita Louise Ok was given the run of the race trailing the leader Kyvalley Lily, before using the sprint lane to race clear in the shadows of the post to defeat Apache Speed (one/ one - three wide home turn) and Kyvalley Lily in a rate of 2-07.4.

Beautifully bred winner ■ Shepparton (Kialla) trainer Steve O'Donoghue and stable reinswoman Bec Bartley were successful at Bendigo with beautifully bred Christian Cullen/ Ailsa filly Ariosa in the Bendigo Bank 3-Y-0 Pace over 2150 metres.

Starting from inside the second line, Ariosa spent no petrol three back the markers for most of the journey, weaving in-between runners in the last lap to pounce on the leaders on turning to score from a death-seating Cool Machrista and Judyfree in a rate of 2-00.1.

Arresting the lead ■ Chintin (Darraweit) trainer/driver Steve Cleave has 6-Y-0 Our Sir Vancelot/Sweetadelaidewally mare Maximum Joy racing in peak form at present, bring up two wins in succession by taking the Kilmore Equine Clinic Pace for C1 class over 1690 metres at Kilmore on Tuesday September 25.

Starting from the extreme draw, Cleave wasted no time in sending Maximum Joy forward to arrest the lead from the favourite Hezfullarunning heading into the back straight on the final occasion and kept going, Maximum Joy prevailed by 3.4 metres in a rate of 1-58.9 over Hezfullarunning, with Johnny Tee third.

Took concession ■ Romsey trainer John Ryan's smart 5-Y-0 Dream Away/Island Sailor gelding Island Rumba chalked up his fifth victory in 34 outings, when successful in the George Brosnan Memorial Pace for C1 class over 2180 metres at Kilmore.

Taking a concession for Bob Butt who is likely to become a resident of the Macedon Ranges when trainer Brent Lilley re-locates there, Island Rumba flew away from gate four to lead easily and was never headed, running out a 6.6 metre winner in 203.6 from Algrancos Icon which trailed, with Cape N Cutter (one/one) third.

This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Wednesday - Terang, Thursday - Echuca, Friday - Melton, Saturday - Geelong, Sunday - Kilmore, Monday - Maryborough, Tuesday - Mildura.

Horses To Follow ■ Kotare Roland, Rowdy Rocket, Eurasian Kosmos, Cape N Cutter, Hezfullarunning, Bonspiel Delight, Soho Eastwood.

VICTORIOUS AT KILMORE ■ Maiden Gully trainer David Van Ryn was victorious with 4-Y-0 Last Sunset/Hakuna Matata Angel mare Hakuna Sunset in the KilmoreAgricultural Show Trotters Mobile for T0 class over 2180 metres at Kilmore on Tuesday September 25.

Given an easy time from the pole by nephew Haydon Gray trailing the favourite Im Demimondaine drawn next to her, Hakuna Sunset made full use of the sprint lane, racing clear over the concluding stages to score by 2.7 metres in a rate of 2-05 over Telern Tiger from near last, with Im Demimondaine close up in third place.

Restrained ■ Shelbourne trainer Larry Eastman's 4-Y-0 Northern Luck/Decethree Lombo mare Lombo Cloud Nine brought up thre wins in succession by taking out the Conway Pies Jayson Finnis Concession Driver Of The Year Pace for C1 class over 2200 metres at Horsham on Monday.

With regular reinsman Damian Wilson in the sulky, Lombo Cloud Nine was restrained from gate three as the starter released the field, settling three back in the moving line.

Creeping forward three wide in the final circuit, Lombo Cloud Nine raced clear on straightening to score from G K Galleon which followed her home from last, with Mosquito Flyer (one/one) third. The mile rate 2-01.9.

Quick start ■ Lightly raced seven year old Allawart Ray/ Allawart Liz gelding Allawart Ugo registered his third victory in 21 outings (which include 5 placings), when successful in the Get Well Ray Mills Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2200 metres at Horsham on Monday September 24.

Raced by Ken and Ellie Exell and trained by octogenarian Ken at Mackenzies Creek not far from the Horsham town centre, Allawart Ugo with regular reinsman Mark Hayes in the sulky began quickly from the 20 metre mark to possie one/one, before vacating the prime spot shortly after to park outside the pacemaker Ships Spur which had retained the inside running from the pole.

Applying plenty of pressure to the leader in the final circuit, Allawart Ugo proved too strong at

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the finish for Ships Spur, winning by a 3.7 metre margin in a rate of 2-08.1, with 40 metre equal backmarker Strapperama (three wide from the bell) third.

Bred locally at Allawart Lodge by Geoff and Mabel Foreman, Allawart Ugo was sold for the paltry figure of $250 at a dispersal sale.

At the Horsham Harness Racing Club Season Awards night held two nights earlier, Ken Exell was named ‘Local Strike Rate - Trainer Of The Year’, while Allawart Ugo snared the Graham Eeles - ‘Horse Of The Year’ title, giving both Ken and Ellie a tremendous thrill.

Allawart Ugo usually only races during the day as Ken's eyesight is not as good these days and is reluctant to travel at night.

Ken has spent a lifetime in the sport and fondly remembers the early days of racing in the Wimmera/Mallee District of Victoria where joint gallop and trotting fixtures were a regular thing, attending on a regular basis with his father Arthur.

Consistent ■ The Bendigo program on Wednesday September 26 was a huge night for the local area, with Bendigo supplying four winners on the nine event card.

Husband and wife Paul and Maree Campbell each provided a winner Paul taking the Hygain Feeds Pacers Handicap for C1 or better class over 2150 metres with Dual Agent Tabman and Maree the Worlds Best Hoof Oil Pace for C0 class over 1650 metres with Patrique.

Most consistent Kiwi bred Rustler Hanover/ Ingas Star 7-Y-0 gelding Dual Agent Tabman was tough in his victory after being sent forward from the 10-metre mark to park outside the last start Maryborough winner Fanagalo.

With the pair clearing out in the run to the wire, Dual Agent Tabman outstayed the leader to score by 1.9 metres in a rate of 2-01 (last half 57.4), with Laughing Holme third.

It was Dual Agent Tabman's first victory since July 11 at the same track.

Patrique, a 4-Y-0 gelded son of Union Guy and Peps Pride also raced in the open from gate three and in a punishing finish, prevailed by a neck over the pacemaker Abstraction and The Brazen Jasper in 2-00.7, recording his first victory since June 2011.

Both Paul and Maree drove their respective winners.

Sprint lane ■ Brian Gath's 4-Y-0 Wally Walton/Coffee Black entire Stocker snared the Freedom Tanks Pace for C0 class over 1650 metres.

Raced by wife Denise and daughter Kylie Emerson, Stocker led throughout from gate four to account for Mon Visage which trailed using the sprint lane to no avail, with Rhinestone Cowgirl third after racing in the open.

The mile rate 1-59.7.

Safe step ■ Former South Australian 9-Y-0 Armbro Operative/GoldenAngel gelding Omniscient now in the care of Scott Dyer, took out the Tony's On High Pizza Claiming Handicap over 2150 metres.

Stepping safely from the 10 metre mark, Dyer wasted no time in sending Omnicient forward to race outside the leader The Blurr, before outstaying his rivals to score by a nose from Cowboy Cadillac (one/one) and Rockets Gem in a rate of 2-02.

■ On a night which belonged to the Macedon Ranges, Kyneton trainer Joe Attard snared the Last Chance Trotters Cup Draw Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2150 metres with most consistent 6-Y-0 Extrovert/Kellybrooke gelding Imagunnadogood in a rate of 2-06.8.

Taking a concession for Bolinda based Josh Duggan, Imagunnadogood stepped cleanly from the 10 metre mark, immediately pressing forward to take the lead away from the roughie Dartrenzac.

Once in front, Imagunnadogood was always going to be hard to beat and that's the way it panned out, scoring effortlessly in advance of Dartrenzac and Bonspiel Delight.

It was Imagunnadogood's 10th victory in 55 race appearances.

From the outside ■ Melton's Doug Adams was successful with 5Y-0 Dawn Ofa New Say/Raging Eagle gelding One Dog One Bone in the Bendigo Bank Wallan and District Community Bank Pace for C0 class over 1690 metres at Kilmore on Tuesday September 25.

Driven by in-form reinsman Charlie Borg, One Dog One Bone ($99 on Supertab), possied midfield in the running line from outside the second line, with Mister Bellisimo taking over from My Mums A Star shortly after the start.

Held up for a final dash at the leaders, One Dog One Bone raced by son Charlie finished full of running to record a runaway victory in 1-58.4 over the favourite Braeview Warrior (one/one at bell), with Rowdy Rocket third from three back in the moving line.

Allowed to dawdle ■ Mt Cottrell trainer Bill Galea combined with Damian Wilson to land the Book A Table In The Fashions Pavillion October 28 Pace for C0 class (mares) over 1690 metres at Kilmore with Classic Bliss, a 4-Y-0 daughter of Blissful Hall and Classic Amy. Leading out from gate four, Classic Bliss allowed to dawdle at the head of affairs, scored by a metre from Eleventh Command which trailed using the sprint lane to no avail, with Our Fabiola (one/one) third in an all Melton area finish. The mile rate 201.

Came home strongly ■ Toolern Vale trainer Gary Hoban was successful with 5-Y-0 Modern Art/Estasi mare Black And Yellow in the Bendigo Advertiser Pace for C1 class over 2150 metres at Lord's Raceway Bendigo on Wednesday.

Driven by brother Shane, Black And Yellow from gate five enjoyed an easy time mid-field until the last lap when she was eased three wide to give chase to the leaders My Serina and Our Puddy who had dictated terms in a slowly run affair prior to the bell sounding.

Given full rein on straightening, Black And Yellow ran home strongly to defeat Smokinoff from a long way back and My Serena in a rate of 2-00.1 due to a swift last half mile of 57.9.

Winners at Bendigo ■ Maree and John Caldow were also winners at Bendigo when Kiwi bred Bettors Delight/ Giveitawhirl 5-Y-0 mare Bettor Give It greeted the judge in the Race For Fun Club Pace over 2150 metres for C3 & C4 class.

Settling a long way off the leader Shez The Barmaid from gate four on the second line, Bettor Give It after gaining a three wide double trail in the last lap, finished full of running on turning to score from Jordylan (last at the bell) and Elsu Prince (three wide home turn) in a rate of 1-58.6.

- Len Baker

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 61

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Observer Victorian Sport

MIGHTY GAMBLE THAT PAID OFF

■ Swans coach John Longmire gambled with the fitness of four star players –and won the 2012 AFL Premiership!

Congratulationss to Swans Chairman Richard Colless, his Board, staff, sponsors, John L and his coaching group and players. A brilliant win.

This pre-game Grand Final, like most others, was full of injury rumours and possible last minute withdrawals.

It didn’t happen as both sides lined up as selected. But it was soon evident the Swans had problems with All Australian full-back Ted Richards struggling with his sprained ankle injured late last week as Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin took him on safari and proved too good and too fast. At the breaks Teddy ran off for his compulsory pain-killing needle. And it worked!

The biggest doubt centred on Swan ruckman Shane ‘Mummy’ Munford.

It was right as he couldn’t jump off his right foot or sprint to a contest.

The question was could the ‘Canadian Cub’ Mike Pyke handle all the ruck work and overhead marks or would he ‘blow-up’ into fragments when opened-up for a ‘taste-test’?

Longmire kept the faith – he told Pikey “I’ve closed the bar-no more Canadian bottles - so do your ‘fairy’ best”. And it worked!

By half-time Sydney was down and out as three more wounded hit the medical room for the medicos magic medicine.

Adam Goodes, Jude Bolton and Lewis ‘Jetstar’ Jetta all carrying knee and leg injuries. Still the coach kept his unerring faith in his players, his doctor Nathan Gibbs and physio Matt Cameron. Courage and faith. He kept wiping the sweat from his brow. And it worked!

As promised by Jetta at Friday’s drenched AFL parade he would challenge Cyril Rioli to a ‘boat-race’ for the crowd.

At 3.23 mins. into the first quarter ‘Jetstar’ swooped on the ball in the back pocket, Jolimont end, Southern Stand side and decided to ‘put the pedal to the metal’.

He had a two metre break on Cyril.

He ran his 15m and had his first bounce still 2m.+ ahead. Both are flat-out.

Another 15m another bounce. Now it’s a 3m gap. Full speed ahead! Time for the third bounce-gap 3.5m. Despite the rain the grass is scorched.

‘Jetstar’ flashes past the I/2 FF has his fourth bounce and is now 4m clear of Cyril! The crowd has gone crazy.

He steadies, balanced up and kicked to the goal square. Cyril catches up and crashes into ‘Jetstar’s’ back. Penalty free downfield! That’s what is called AFL entertainment. It is why 99,673 fanatics turned up to see it live.

Another first quarter incident may have cost Hawks dearly. Two minutes after ‘the race’ Luke Hodge left the field under the ‘blood rule’ with a

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel deeply cut right eye. He received treatment and returned after a couple of minutes to the fray with his forehead heavily bandaged.

At quarter time Hawthorn lead 4.5.29 to Swans 1.4.10 points.

The second quarter was all Sydney kicking 6 goals straight to 1 point for a 16 points lead 7.4. 46 to 4.6.30 points.

At the half time break I presume the Hawthorn doctor elected to stitch Luke’s eye wound as he returned for the third quarter without any bandage.

Will this be a good or bad stitch in time? At ¾-quarter time it is Hawks 64 to Sydney 65 pts.

The Final stanza for 2012. The ball is bounced - Sewell to Rioli to Breust, goal, in 18 secs Hawks lead.

Then one minute later Hale grabs ball from a ‘throw-in’. Another goal.

Hawks 78 to 66 (Frees are similar to last week’s count, Haw 21 to Crows 8, Haw 19 to Syd 9 – finished 21 to 10).

Dan Hannebery goals at 8.10 secs.

78 to 72. Tight! One minute later it’s NOT the time to be without your captain to call the plays.

But Luke Hodge runs off to have a head bandage on his bleeding eye. He is off for two minutes. No damage done as upon return he is paid a free and the scores remain 78 to 72.

He sees Kieren Jack level the scores at 78 points then leaves the field again one minute later as the head bandage is slipping.

He returns with another bandage around his head and under his chin.

In his absence Parker kicked a behind and Goodes a goal and Swans with 62 secs to play are four points in front.

Jetta kicks long from 60m and from the bounce Malceski snaps the match winning goal.

Final score Sydney 14.7.91 to Hawthorn 11.15.81.

Hodge missed all up, nine critical minutes.

So was it ‘a stitch in time’ or best to stick with the tape?

Crowd 99,673, Norm Smith Medalist Ryan O’Keefe, in one of the ’gutsiest’ Grand Final wins ever.

Despite the inclement weather nothing could dampen the enthusiasm of the AFL festivities and celebrations.

All Aussie ump ■ First time AFL Grand Final umpire Matt Stevic has also been named the All Australian Umpire for the 2012 Toyota AFL Premiership season.

Stevic finished the season as the highest-ranked AFL field umpire, which also saw him appointed to his first AFL Grand Final.

AFL Umpire's Manager Jeff Gieschen said: "Matt has really matured as an umpire in the last two to three years, he has displayed outstanding consistency during both the home and away and finals series.

"Matt is extremely professional regarding all aspects of his umpiring both on and off the field and is an outstanding leader and role model."

Primus joins Suns ■ The Gold Coast Suns have confirmed that Matthew Primus has agreed to join the club as an assistant coach ahead of the 2013 season.

Primus, played 157 AFL games for the Fitzroy and Port Adelaide Football Clubs as a ruckman and joins the GC Suns coaching panel after spending two years as senior coach of the Port Adelaide Football Club.

In welcoming Primus' appointment, General Manager Football Operation’s, Marcus Ashcroft con-

p y There will be points-in, so back Sydney – you’ll get a run and all out effort for your investment. I’m selecting Sydney to win.

At season start, like other media I attempted to select the Final 8 – I got six right but missed on Adelaide and Fremantle.

Enjoy the week!

Page 46 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Observer columnist Harry Beitzel went against the odds last week to tip Sydney Swans as winners of the 2012 AFL Grand Final against Hawthorn in last Saturday’s battle at the MCG firmed Primus would not only take up a midfield coaching role but also work closely in developing the Suns tall key position players.

"We are thrilled to confirm that Matthew has accepted an assistant coaching role. He brings considerable experience and we believe he has a significant amount to offer our club.

"Matthew's ability to educate and develop our ruckman and key position players, as well as working with our midfield group ensures our playing group will benefit from the best possible tuition as we continue to develop our list."

Primus said he was excited by his latest opportunity.

"I'm really looking forward to joining the Gold Coast and continuing my coaching career."

“It was great to have the Gold Coast Suns show interest in having me join

Observer Victorian Sport

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Melbourne

MY TIP FOR THE GRAND FINAL

■ What a weekend of Finals Football! Especially the thriller between Hawthorn, favourites before the bounce at $1.24, and Adelaide at $6.20.

But with five minutes to play Graham Joncock kicked a goal to put the Crows one point in front.

But the wizard Cyril Rioli goaled and the Hawks front up to Sydney Swans in Saturday’s Grand Final at the MCG. Sydney should be favourites for the 2012 prize of the year. But Bookmakers have their own ideas.

They’ve put Hawthorn up at $1.40 and Swans $2.75. Sydney looked better than Hawthorn in the Prelim Finals wins.

It is important to acknowledge the superb efforts of the losers Collingwood and Adelaide.

Crows” from no-hopers to one straight kick from the Grand Final.

Deserved congrats to all concerned especially cool, calm, collected coach Brenton Sanderson and his assistants and players. A mammoth effort.

Collingwood had to climb Mt Everest twice in the lead-up, losing Captain Nick Maxwell suspended for two critical weeks, no second ruckman with the injury to Chris Dawes, the absence with injury to the experienced and clever goal-sneak Alan Didak and ironman Darren Jolly left to do all the ruckwork.

The biggest emotional drain of all was the tragic death in Las Vegas of the universally popular John McCarthy and his funeral involving the whole Magpie club, coaches, players, administrators and supporters last Thursday, one day before the match.

The conduct of the Collingwood community and family brought them great honour and well earned respect and admiration.

Hawthorn hasn’t as yet totally satisfied the AFL world: what did happen at the MCG on Saturday evening?

Without denigrating Adelaide Crows outstanding performance, the Hawks as one of the shortest priced fFinalists in the history of the game should have performed much better.

This Saturday Captain Luke Hodge will return from his stomach upset and if there was perhaps a trace of over-confidence or cockiness that will have been banished from every breath.

Hawthorn has been gifted with the opportunity to be a ‘second chance winner’. Adelaide hit the front with Joncock’s goal with five minutes to play. This week it’s $1.40 to Swans $2.75!

Against all that is the consistent Swans. They may not win every game but you know they play it hard, tough and fair till final siren.

The weekend media push was to alert the Match Review Panel to make sure they investigate and trap Sydney’s star Shane Mumford with a charge of interfering with the strapping, it was bandaged like a plastercast, on Chris Dawe’s knee.

The media love to stick their nose into controversy. Based on what I’ve read, including a statement from Collingwood, there appears no evidence.

What amazes me is the lack of comment from the media experts about the blatant wrestling by the ruckmen in front of the umpire and on one occasion Mumford was dumped to the ground and was still trying to

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel win the hit-out! All the top umpire did was call ‘play-on’!

There will be points-in, so back Sydney – you’ll get a run and all out effort for your investment. I’m selecting Sydney to win.

At season start, like other media I attempted to select the Final 8 – I got six right but missed on Adelaide and Fremantle.

Enjoy the week!

Impending milestones ■ 100 games – Stephen Gilham, Hawthorn. ★★★ Most Club Finals –Adam Goodes, Sydney Swans. Adam is due to play his 23rd final, the most in club history.

He currently jointly holds the record at 22 finals for South Melbourne / Sydney Swans with Jude Bolton. ★★★ Most Club Finals – Jude Bolton, Sydney Swans. Jude is due to play his 23rd final, the most in club history.

He currently jointly holds the record at 22 finals for South Melbourne / Sydney Swans with Adam Goodes. ★★★ Brothers in Premiership Teams – Reid family. Should the Sydney Swans win this week, Sam Reid (Sydney) and Ben Reid (Collingwood, 2010) would become the 40th pair of brothers in VFL/AFL history to both play in a premiership.

They would be only the 12th pair of brothers to play in premierships with different clubs, joining the Baggott (Jack, Richmond; Ron, Melbourne), Belcher (Vic, S Melbourne; Alan, Essendon), Cooper (Graham, Hawthorn; Ian, St Kilda), Deas (Jack, Fitzroy; Bob, S Melbourne), Grace (Mick, Carlton and Fitzroy; Jim, Fitzroy), Hiskins (Fred, Essendon; Arthur, S Melbourne), James (Brett, Adelaide Crows; Roger, Port Adelaide), Keating (Aaron, Adelaide Crows; Clark, Brisbane Lions), Kekovich (Brian, Carlton; Sam, N Melbourne), Madden (Simon, Essendon; Justin, Carlton) and Selwood (Adam, West Coast; Joel, Geelong Cats) families. ★★★ Brothers in Premiership Teams – Shaw family. Should the Sydney Swans win this week, Rhyce Shaw (Sydney) and Heath Shaw (Collingwood, 2010) would become

the 41st pair of brothers in VFL/AFL history to both play in a premiership, as per the note above. They would be only the 13th pair of brothers to play in premierships with different clubs. ★★★ Father / Son Premiership Players – Kennedy family. Should the Sydney Swans win this week, Josh Kennedy (Sydney) and John Kennedy (Hawthorn, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989) would become the 21st father/son combination in VFL / AFL history to both play in premiership.

They would join the Cassin (Jack, Essendon; John, North Melbourne), Cloke (David, Richmond; Travis, Collingwood), Howell (Jack P, South Melbourne; Jack E, Carlton), Leehane (Steve, Carlton; Ted, Essendon) families as the only father/ son combinations to play in premierships with different clubs. ★★★ Premiership at Two Clubs – Shaun Burgoyne. Should Hawthorn win this week, Shaun will have played in premierships with two clubs, after being part of Port Adelaide’s 2004 win over the Brisbane Lions.

28 players in the history of the game have played in a flag with two clubs, those being Eddie Drohan (Fitzroy and Collingwood), Mick Grace (Fitzroy and Carlton), Frank Caine (Carlton and Essendon), Jim Martin (Essendon and Fitzroy), Charlie Norris (Collingwood and Fitzroy), Tom Fitzmaurice (Essendon and Geelong), Horrie Edmonds (Collingwood and Richmond), Jack Carney (Geelong and Carlton), Brighton Diggins (South Melbourne and Carlton), Gordon Abbott (Geelong and Essendon), Keith Stackpole (Collingwood and Fitzroy), Peter McLean (Melbourne and Carlton), Ian Stewart (St Kilda and Richmond), Barry Davis (Essendon and North Melbourne), Doug Wade (Geelong and North Melbourne), Brent Crosswell (Carlton and North Melbourne), Barry Rowlings (Hawthorn and Richmond), Bryan Wood (Richmond and Essendon), Darren Jarman (Hawthorn and Adelaide), Martin Pike (North Melbourne and the Brisbane Lions), Blake Caracella (Essendon and the Brisbane Lions), Gavin Wanganeen (Essendon and Port Adelaide), Damien Hardwick (Essendon and Port Adelaide), Byron Pickett (North Melbourne and Port Adelaide), Jason Ball (West Coast and the Sydney Swans), Cameron

Mooney (North Melbourne and the Geelong Cats), Stewart Dew (Port Adelaide and Hawthorn) and Darren Jolly (Sydney Swans and Collingwood).

AFL Media Awards ■ The Australian Football Media Association held its annual function in Melbourne.

The Age’s Jake Niall was awarded the 2012 Australian Football Media Association's Alf Brown trophy for overall award for excellence in the football media in addition to winning the best print columnist category, most outstanding deadline report and being highly commended in the best print news reporter category.

The Clinton Grybas Rising Star was awarded to AFL Media’s Callum Twomey while Life Membership was awarded to Greg Baum (The Age), Darryl Timms (Herald Sun), author Ken Piesse and Eddie McGuire (Channel 9/MMM).

Most Outstanding News Reporter. Judged by Michael Gawenda, Bruce Hearn-McKinnon, Geoff Poulter – Michael Gleeson, The Age. Highly Commended; Jake Niall, The Age .

Most Outstanding Columnist.

Judged by Chris Johnson, Bob Gordon, Francis Leach – Jake Niall, The Age. Highly Commended; Robert Murphy, The Age. Most Outstanding Deadline Report. Judged by Steve Harris, Hitaf Rasheed – Jake Niall, The Age. Most Outstanding Feature Writer.

Judged by Digby Beacham, Shane Castleman, Jude Donnelly – Caroline Wilson, The Age. Highly commended, Mark Stevens, Herald Sun Most Outstanding Photographer.

Judged by Clive McKinnon, John Donegan, Louise Graham – Michael Klein, Herald Sun. Most Outstanding Action Photograph. Judged by Clive McKinnon, John Donegan, Louise Graham – Michael Klein, Herald Sun. Most Outstanding News/Feature Photograph. Judged by Clive McKinnon, John Donegan, Louise Graham – Wayne Ludbey, Herald Sun. Most Outstanding Program - Television. Judged by David Lowden, Russel Howcroft, Paul Sheahan – AFL 360, Fox Footy.

Most Outstanding Program - Radio. Judged by Alex Lavelle, Len Johnson, Ondrej Foltin – 3AW. Most Outstanding Special Commentator - Television. Judged by Drew Morphett, Bev O’Connor, Stephen Phillips – David King, Fox Footy.

Most Outstanding Special Commentator - Radio. Judged by Peter Schwab, Bev O’Connor, Neil Cordy – Leigh Matthews, 3AW. Most Outstanding Caller - Television. Judged by David Lowden, Matt Kitchin, Tony Charlton – Bruce McAvaney, Channel 7.

● Jobe Watson Photo courtesy: AFL.com.au

Jobe Watson wins Brownlow

■ Essendon’s Jobe Watson took out the Brownlow Medal on Monday night.

The Bombers captain won with 30 votes, ahead of Tiger Trent Cotchin (26 votes) and Hawthorn's Sam Mitchell (26).

Spotted at the big night at Crown were: Adelaide Crows – Patrick Dangerfield, Sam Jacobs, Rory Sloane, Scott Thompson, Nathan Van Berlo; Brisbane Lions – Simon Black, Jonathan Brown, Pearce Hanley, Joel Patfull, Tom Rockliff; Carlton – Eddie Betts, Chris Judd, Marc Murphy, Heath Scotland, Kade Simpson; Collingwood – Dayne Beams, Nick Maxwell, Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, Dane Swan, Dale Thomas; Essendon – Dyson Heppell, Patrick Ryder, Brent Stanton, Jobe Watson; Fremantle – Stephen Hill, Michael Johnson, Chris Mayne, Aaron Sandilands; Geelong Cats – Paul Chapman, Corey Enright, Tom Hawkins, Joel Selwood, Harry Taylor; Gold Coast Suns – Gary Ablett, Harley Bennell, Dion Prestia, David Swallow; GWS Giants – Jeremy Cameron, Phil Davis, Jonathan Giles, Adam Treloar, Callan Ward; Hawthorn – Grant Birchall, Lance Franklin, Luke Hodge, Sam Mitchell, Cyril Rioli, Brad Sewell; Melbourne – Mitch Clark, Jack Grimes, Jeremy Howe, Nathan Jones, Jack Trengove; North Melbourne – Ryan Bastinac, Drew Petrie, Andrew Swallow, Scott Thompson; Port Adelaide – Brad Ebert, Kane Cornes, Jay Schulz; Richmond – Trent Cotchin, Ivan Maric, Chris Newman, Jack Riewoldt, Shane Tuck; St Kilda – Nick Dal Santo, Sean Dempster, Stephen Milne, Nick Riewoldt; West Coast – Dean Cox, Andrew Gaff, Darren Glass, Nic Naitanui, Matt Rosa, Scott Selwood; Western Bulldogs – Matthew Boyd, Adam Cooney, Daniel Cross, Ryan Griffen, Robert Murphy, Liam Picken.

The Sydney Swans’ players were at a function in Sydney.

their coaching staff and looking at their list, it’s clear they have a great bunch of young players and I am certainly looking forward to working with them when pre season training gets under way, everyone who knows me knows I love coaching and I love teaching, so this is a great opportunity.”

The former Port Adelaide skipper said he was excited by what the future held on the Gold Coast.

“Watching from a far, they have been doing some good work up on the Gold Coast and the opportunity to work in a different culture and in a new environment is certainly something I am looking forward to.”

"The Sunsprovide a fantastic opportunity and I can't wait to join Guy and the rest of the coaching staff up on the Gold Coast to play my role in assisting in the continued development of the club and its players.”

Cloke, O’Brien sign with Magpies ■ Collingwood Football Club is pleased to announce the re-signing of two senior players, Travis Cloke and Harry O’Brien.

Cloke has agreed to a five-year deal and O’Brien a two-year arrangement.

Premiership players both, their commitment enables Collingwood to head into the 2013 campaign with its list all but settled.

Cloke, 25, seems certain to finish his career in black and white. His new deal, which includes a conditional fifth year, will carry the centre-half forward through to the end of the 2017 season.

Cloke played all 25 games of Collingwood’s season in 2012, for a career total of 174 across eight years.

He has led the club’s goal-kicking for the last two seasons, with returns of 69 and 59 goals, and has been the best contested mark in the game over that period.

Collingwood Director of Football, Geoff Walsh, said that retaining a player of Cloke’s ability and proven durability had been a priority.

“It’s obviously a long commitment from both parties which, from our point of view, reflects the regard we hold Travis in and our faith in his ability to play good

football for a long time to come,” Walsh said.

“I think it’s also a reflection of Travis’s regard for Collingwood. He said all along that he wanted to stay at the Westpac Centre and clearly he’s prepared to make Collingwood his football home for many years.

“Although the negotiations have been protracted all parties - Collingwood Football Club, Ralph Carr of RCM Sport, David Cloke and the Cloke family - have always been working towards the common goal of Travis remaining a Collingwood player.

“The final year is not unencumbered. There are conditions that will remain a matter for Collingwood and Travis but clearly both parties are comfortable with them.”

O’Brien, 25, has played 159 matches across eight seasons with Collingwood, where he began as a rookie in 2005.

Like Cloke, a member of the 2010 premiership team, O’Brien has distinguished himself as an attacking back flanker. He won All-Australian honours in Collingwood’s flag winning year and now seems certain to become a 10 year player for the Magpies at the least.

- Harry Beitzel

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Page 63

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Brian Smith

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Tel: 9729 6904

0412 427 247

Fax: 9720 3700 Email: bayswatercakes@i.net.au

146 ARGUS ST, CHELTENHAM VIC 3192 TEL: 9585 2822 FAX: 9585 2422

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Advertiser Of The Week

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 64 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 3, 2012

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