Melbourne Observer. 121107A. November 7, 2012. Part A. Pages 1-16

Melbourne

Observer

TOP VALUE

$2

95

52 PAGES

TED RYAN’S RACING LATEST: P44 NEWS ★ SHOWBIZ ★ LIFESTYLE ★ TRAVEL ★ FEATURES ★ BARGAINS ★ SPORT

Melbourne

Observer SPRING FEVER

STATE EDITION Vol 44 No 1494 Incorporating the Geelong Weekly

Ph 1-800 231 311 Fx 1-800 231 312

ANDRE RIEU TO RETURN Page 39

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2012

LOVATT’S MEGA CROSSWORD $2.95

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

including GST

20% OFF & FREE GUTTER CLEAN* Turn To Page 20

Rupertswood Mansion ‘Birthplace of The Ashes’

MORE LAUGHS PLEASE

3 Macedon St Sunbury 9740 5020 www.rupertswood.com

Page 37

Turn To Page 48

Seamark On First 29 First Ave, Mooloolaba, Qld 4557

Phone: (07) 5457 8600 Fax: (07) 5457 8699 Contact: Greg and Viv McKay Web: www.seamarkresort.com.au

Turn To Page 33

Glen Huntly, Heidelberg & Mitcham! 1800 819 936 ISSN 1447 4611

■ Christie Cooper and Lynda Kinkade were at the West End at Crown Melbourne for the G H Mumm champagne event to celebrate the Spring Racing Carnival.

More Spring Racing photos are inside this week’s Melbourne Observer.

Turn To Page 28

IVANHOE CYCLES FREE LAKE SHOES & CLIPLESS PEDALS*

9490 5213 ivanhoecycles.com.au * See our ad on Page 2

Mattresses Galore Cnr High St & Tooronga Rd, Malvern, 3144 Phone: (03) 9822 9057.

Fax: (03) 9822 9821 www.mattressesgalore.com.au info@mattressesgalore.com.au

See Page 22

Turn To Page 5 Turn To Page 21

THE GREATEST CHRISTMAS GIFT OF ALL! A book about your life

www. darwinsbarrabase.com.au

Currumbin Sands Apartments

Printed before Christmas Order your book for Christmas and receive a free CD of your story

MEMOIRS FOUNDATION 9888 9588

PHONE 0418 883 335 Phone for details

www.gourmethamper.com.au Phone: 1-800 449 295 PHONE (07) 5525 5000. TURN TO PAGE 32

‘MELBOURNE’S WEEKLY SHOWBIZ BIBLE’

See Page 8

Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Page 3

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

City Desk

Melbourne

Observer

The hottest news about Melbourne’s A-listers

The Buzz Moosehead Awards Charming man

● Donna Demaio with Roberto Cavalli ■ Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, 71, has charmed his way into the hearts of Melbourne’s females.

Kissing the hands of many of the women in the Lavazza marquee in the Birdcage at Flemington, Cavalli also recorded an interview with 3AW’s Donna Demaio.

Jon performs

● Jon English ■ Sixties and seventies music features in the Rock Revolution performances being toured across Victoria by Jon English: ■ Thurs., Nov. 8. The Capital Theatre, Bendigo.

■ Fri., Nov. 9. Eastbank Centre, Shepparton.

■ Sat., Nov. 10. Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre.

■ Fri.-Sat., Nov. 16-17. Palms at Crown, Melbourne.

Around town ■ Stephanie Wood tells us the Picture This exhibition is continuing at Gasworks, Albert Park, until November 18.

■ Melbourne violinist Patrick Roberts is launching his new CD, Vision, says A&R man Bill Duff.

■ Condolences to columnist Di Rolle on the passing of her mother Allyson.

● Kate McLennan

■ The 2013 Moosehead Awards Presentation Night is being held on Monday (Nov. 12) at 7pm sharp at the Toff In Town, Level 2, Curtin House, Melbourne.

The Moosehead Awards are run by an independent comedy industry association which raises funds at the Melbourne Comedy Festival each year to support the production of new and innovative shows in the subsequent year.

Hosts are Justin Hamilton and Adam Richard, featuring Dave Thornton, Lehmo, Celia Pacquola and more.

For further details, visit www.mooseheadawards.com.au

Under The Clocks Birthday celebrations at Crown

CHARLES, CAMILLA VISIT SOUTHBANK ● The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall ■ The Die-Nasty Soap-a-thon of improvised theathre is being played out at the Broken Mirror Studios in Brunswick for 52 hours from November 30 until December 2, says Eleanor Howlett.

■ The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall are due to attend a youth performing arts showcase this morning (Wed.) at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School, Miles St, Soutbank.

Their 11.05am visit will follow Camilla’s scheduled visit to the Osteoporosis Australia 10am reception at Government House, with Charles visiting the Housing Melbourne Symposium at the National Gallery of Victoria in St Kilda Rd. The Royals are due to depart from Tullamarine Airport tomorrow (Thurs.) at 10.35am.

Charles and Camilla’s schedule included arrival late on Monday night, staying at Government House, a visit to the Australian Tapestry Workshop in South Melbourne, the Prince’s attendance at Cricket Victoria’s ‘Harmony’ program at the MCG, and attendance at yesterday’s Melbourne Cup at Flemington.

Observer Distribution Manager Sam Fiorini is in Bali this ★Melbourne week for the 50th birthday celebrations of wife Vicki.

Radio man Keith McGowan and wife Angela are en route to Hervey ★Winner Bay, Queensland, for the 80th birthday of 3UZ-3AK man Henry Gay. of the Arts Access Australia first prize for artists with a disabil ★ ity is Peter Hughes. Andrew Follows has won the People’s Choice award. entrepreneur Andrew McManus is in Cabrini Hospital ★Melbourne after contracting meningitis following back surgery.

● Trevor and Kerrie Marmalade at the Club 23 party ■ Crown Melbourne’s Ann Peacock hosted an A-list party to celebrate the first brithday of Club 23. Seen at the celebration were Ricky Ponting, Danny Green, Mark abd Toni Skaife, Tim Campbell and Anthony Callea, Rebecca Maddern and Tim Stuckey. more photos on Page 13.

● Rebecca Maddern with Tim Stuckey

Award finalists

● Vince Colisimo and Suzanne Carbone were pictured at Flemington. Yesterday’s Cup meeting attracted a crowd estimated at approx. 100,000 people.

Photo: Sue Deenim

■ Victorian Australian of the Year finalists are children’s advocate Victoria Anderson, plastic surgeon Ian Holten, businessman Harold Mitchell and musician Dr Ahmad Sarmast.

Victorian Senior Australian of the Year finalists are Graham Atkinson, Dorothy Hamilton, Marilyn King and Prof. T John Martin.

Victorian Young Australian of the Year finalists are Hayley Bolding, Simon Griffiths, Kumari Middleton and Dr Linny Phuong.

Victorian Local Hero finalists are PamAdams, Christine Reade, Dr Rita Seethaler and Andrew Taylor.

● Mark and Toni Skaife at the Club 23 celebrations David Kleesh reminds us that the Whittlesea Community Market ★ will be held on Saturday, November 17, at the Showgrounds, Yea Rd, 8am-1pm. Arts, crafts, plants, clothes and more. Phone 0419 357 395.

Sunrise team will travel to Melbourne for the Starry Starry ★The Night to be held on Saturday, November 17 at Crown Palladium.

Page 4 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

LOOK WHO’S COMING TO TOWN Magical Porch Thoughts

● Santa, Rudolph and Mrs Claus ■ If you are driving past the Burnley venture land is a world first and will Oval along Swan St, then pedestrians showcase everything that we love had better watch out as they may cop about Christmas; plus dazzle visitors a swipe. with a spectacular Christmas themed They may clench a fist and raise it circus show. twice; they're gonna find out what disI caught up with Mrs Claus on her tracted your eyes. magical Porch down 'Down Under' Cause Mrs Claus has landed in in Richmond (I had to check twice) town, yes I'm telling you why; Mrs where she was putting the final Claus has landed in town. touches to the Kingdom ahead of Santa's Magical Kingdom is a Santa's arrival.

Christmas wish come true this NoThe magic officially opens on November and December. The event is vember 16 and will stay with us until tipped to appeal to all children and the Santa needs his sleigh back on Dechild within all us grown-ups when it cember 23. lights up. $1 from all ticket sales will be doThe interactive walk-through ad- nated to the event's official charity

Off The Porch Thought For The Day Jon English Musician/Angler "I first played in Melbourne in 1972 at Festival Hall doing a concert production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Being a Sydneysider at the time, the thing that struck me was how enthusiastic the audience was compared with the 'shut up and show me' attitude you get north of the border. The ensuing years have shown me Superstar was no fluke!”

partner, the Lord Mayors Charitable Foundation, making this festive season a little more special for people in need.

Mrs Claus, I am thrilled to have finally met you. What exactly brought you to Melbourne for a holiday?

Oh thank you my dear Mark, I must say that my trip 'Down Under' to glorious Melbourne is anything but a holiday. I was actually invited to be the official Ambassador of Santa's Magical Kingdom.

How did Santa's Magical Kingdom come to be?

For some time now, Santa and I have been concerned that the true magic of Christmas was being forgotten by the younger, digital generation. We were so pleased when the talented team from Santa's Magical Kingdom came to the North Pole to tell us all about their amazing plan to bring the magic back in Melbourne this Christmas.

I find it odd that you travelled all this way from the North Pole by yourself. Was Santa OK with that?

We could hardly refuse the invitation. Santa is so busy and asked if I would mind coming out a few months early to help with the project - very much like a building site foreman. We also thought it would be a great opportunity to share some of my Christmas tips with all Victorians.

What can families expect to see when they come to Santa's Magical Kingdom?

They will see so much, I mean they will literally feel Christmas has come early. I suppose anyone could be forgiven for making that mistake when they see the magic we have planned.

What are some of the Kingdom's highlights?

There are just so many. There will be a magical Christmas walkthrough wonderland, a snow- landing where artificial snow will fall every 30 minutes, amusement rides, a spectacular Christmas themed circus show and roving Christmas characters. There will also be a Moshi Monsters themed zone, a craft area to make traditional gifts and I will be reading Christmas sto-

● Mrs Claus ries and enjoying warm cookies and and what has been a highlight? milk with all the children, parents and Yes I have been touring all over. grandparents. Best of all, my dear I loved visiting many wineries along husband will be there to wish every- the Mornington Peninsula. The one a merry, merry Christmas. most memorable part of my trip so What does the magic of Christ- far was swimming at Brighton mas mean to you?

Beach and seeing the colourful and I love seeing the all children's eyes cheery beach huts. light up with happy and glowing We know what Santa and the smiles. That is so magical.

Elves do, what exactly do you do in What is your favourite Christ- the North Pole? mas Carol?

I helped with sorting all the letDefinitely Santa Claus Is Com- ters Santa receives. I also create new ing To Town. Everyone gets so ex- recipes that are sent to magazines cited to hear that my husband is on around the world for publishing. his way. I am excited singing it too They don't call me the Martha as I know he will be soon returning Stewart of the North Oils for nothhome to me! ing.

What do you pack for Santa beWhat is one misconception fore he heads off on his sleigh? about giving Christmas presents?

Santa needs lots of energy for his That expensive presents make trip. I always pack him lots of nuts to the greatest impressions. I encourgive him energy, and always a spe- age everyone to make homemade cial treat. Normally it's my carrot gifts this year. I hear all the time cake which he loves so much. that most people love receiving Besides the weather here in them, especially the kind they can Melbourne, what is the biggest dif- really use. Apply your talents to ference between our Christmas and making gifts. If you're a photograChristmas in the North Pole? pher for example, take a one-of-aOh yes, the weather has been a kind photo of your family and have doozey I must say. I wasn't prepared them framed. There is nothing more for the hot weather at all. I packed special than receiving a gift from the my Winter wardrobe and have loved heart. shopping along Bridge Rd. So where What is your Porch Thought of was I? Oh yes, I would have to say the Day? the biggest difference is definitely I hope to find a 2013 subscription the food on Christmas Day. For start- for the Melbourne Observer in my ers you all have Christmas Day stocking on Christmas morning. I lunches instead of the big traditional wonder if Ash Long been naughty North Pole dinners. I've heard about or nice this year? your shrimps, eskies, great AustraFor more magical details on lian wine and famous laid back atti- Santa's Magical Kingdom tude too. www.santasmagicalkingdom.com.au Have you seen much of Victoria - Mark Richardson

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Page 5

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

LB BIGGEST BARRA FOR NT AGAIN IN 2011 CM

))5 )1

*? A , > + 37 = '*3 A !"# ' ( ) * +

+, --/ $/ $0% / 1% /( ! 2 * 3 4 )503 6( 7 - 89: + ;< * =

& >)0; ' < 1 ' #

CALL NOW FOR A GREAT RATE.

!"# $ % & WHY BOOK WITH US?

2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 Day Barra Run Off Safaris - 2013 Start Dates & Availability (as at 5th Oct 2012) February Barra Run Off Safaris Shady Camp

March

14th Feb 2 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

12th Mar 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

Barra Run Off Safaris Shady Camp

8

28th Mar 4 or 5 Day Barra Run Off 10 Shady Camp Spring

7th Apr 2 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

8

20th Apr 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

8

4th Feb 4 or 5 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

17th Feb 4 or 5 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

2nd Mar 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

15th Mar 2 or 3 Day 28th Mar 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Barra Run Off 12 10 Shady Camp Spring Shady Camp Spring

10th Apr 5 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

9

26th Apr 5 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

4th Feb 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

17th Feb 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

6th Mar 4 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

18th Mar 4 or 5 Day Barra Run Off 12 Shady Camp Neaps

10th Apr 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

9

26th Apr 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

7th Feb 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

21st Feb 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

10

6th Mar 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

18th Mar 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off 12 Shady Camp Neaps

13th Apr 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

8

29th Apr 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

11th Feb 4 or 5 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

27th Feb 4 or 5 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

8th Mar 2 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

22nd Mar 4 day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

4th Apr 4 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

8

17th Apr 4 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

8

11th Feb 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

27th Feb 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

12

12th Mar 4 or 5 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

8

22nd Mar 3 day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

12

4th Apr 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

8

17th Apr 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Neaps

8

31st Mar 2 or 3 Day Barra Run Off Shady Camp Spring

10

April Barra Run Off Safaris Shady Camp

Green Numbers (12 OR LESS) indicates seats available.

Red Zero (0) indicates fully booked. For all Safari enquiries Please Call Allan or Greg on (08) 89450376

s /WN !!! 4OURISM 3TAR 2ATED " " ,ODGE IN $ARWIN ONLY MINS FROM !IRPORT 4RANSFERS TO FROM !IRPORT INCLUSIVE DURING DAY LIGHT HOURS NIGHT S ACCOMMODATION BEFORE AFTER 3AFARI )NCLUDING SELF SERVE CONTINENTAL "REAKY FOR ONLY PER PERSON s !LL MEALS AND ACCOMMODATION INCLUDED IN 3AFARI s &ILLETED lSH ARE PACKED INTO APPROVED mIGHT FREIGHT BOXES FOR YOUR RETURN mIGHT HOME s ,AMINATED 4ROPHY "ARRA 0HOTOS PRINTED FOR YOU s )NDIVIDUAL "EST AWARDS GIVEN TO OUTSTANDING CATCHES

Up To Date Seat Availability on our website or Free Call

1800 777 4200

www. darwinsbarrabase.com.au info@darwinsbarrabase.com

Page 6 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Page 7

Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Page 9

It’s All About You!

60th anniversary for Auxiliary

Melbourne

Observer In This 52-Page Edition

City Desk: Melbourne’s A-listers ............ Page 3 People: Opening night pictures ........... Page 10 News: Matt Bissett-Johnson’s view ....... Page 11 Yvonne Lawrence: Life as a carer .......... Page 12 Melb. Confidential: Whispers, Bitch ...... Page 13 Long Shots: Sorry John-Michael .......... Page 14 Travel, Wine: David Ellis reports ........... Page 15 Extra: Whatever happened to .............. Page 16 Magazine: On the buses .................... Page 17 Showbiz: More Sex Please reviews ...... Page 37 Observer Racing: with Ted Ryan ........... Page 44 Movies, DVDs Local Theatre TV, Radio Mega Crossword

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

Oaks Day forecast ● Libby Chanter, June Bates, Leila Cohen, Liz Cameron, Olga Pole, Sallie Bates, Andrea Maynard, Chris Beeson, Joan, Bone, Jill Paquin, Jill Tragear, Elsie Rankcom, Barbara Foley, Ina Clive, Edna Hore, Shirley Gladman, Marj Ritchie, Anne Patterson, Ursula Griffiths, Dorothy Anderson, Janette Lund, Gwen Bliss, Merle Moule, Beryl Lawton “Each one of our volunteers has an im■ The Royal Freemasons Ladies Auxil“Volunteers contribute their unique taliary has celebrating 60 years of dedicated portant role in supporting our mission “to ents, skills, and knowledge of our commuassist our elderly clients to live a secure, nity to provide personalised attention to cliservice.

The Royal Freemasons organisation has dignified and rewarding life…". ents, enable our employees to concentrate “The Ladies Auxiliary volunteers are on the work for which they were profesacknowledged the contribution of more than particularly impressive. They bring vibrancy sionally prepared, and educate the public 1000 volunteers since 1952.

Moira Laverty, Executive Manager Stra- to Royal Freemasons. They complement about our organisation and its cause,” Mr tegic Projects, says the volunteers have self- and add an extra dimension to the Homes Buckingham said. lessly and freely given their time and efforts and the lives of our residents.

“The Royal Freemasons Ladies Auxil“They are highly valued and warmly ap- iary to provide a valued and dedicated service to has achieved this and much more over preciated by the Royal Freemasons comresidents, families, relatives and friends. the past decades.

At the anniversary event held at Coppin munity, who understand that their contribu“Through their diligence, enterprise and Centre in Punt Rd, Ian Buckingham, the tion is as much personal as professional.

“Royal Freemasons encourages a team tireless efforts, the Ladies Auxiliary has newly appointed Chairman of the Board of Royal Freemasons, said that he felt privi- spirit among its staff and volunteers so that raised and donated more than $1.1 million.

“The Royal Freemasons Ladies Auxilleged to represent an organisation that stands we can offer older Victorians the best seriary is to be congratulated on this special vices possible,” Mr Buckingham said. proud.

“The philosophy of volunteerism is anniversary and wished the very best in conHe said that Freemasonry promotes ideals of charity and service to the community, noble, yet straightforward and it takes a very tinuing their very important work,” Mr Buckingham said and could not do this without our volunteers. special person to volunteer.

Melbourne

Observer

Court Roundsman

CHINESE MEDICINE MAN SUSPENDED More Vizard at 3AW

● Steve Vizard ■ Steve Vizard looks likely to join 3AW as a regular fill-in host, working about 16 weeks a year in various shifts whilst regular on-air hosts take holidays.

Derryn Hinch alerted his audience last week that Vizard was having publicity photographs taken.

Hinch and colleague Neil Mitchell have previously said that Vizard’s appearances on 3AW “threatens the integrity of the station."

■ Chinese Medicine practitioner Tony Lim is to be suspended for six months, commencing tomorrow (Thurs.).

This follows Lim being reprimanded after a five-day hearing before Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Senior Member Noreen Megay.

Lim practises from a shopfront in Hopkins St, Footscray, under the name Bai Cao Tang.

Lim faced VCAT after the Chinese Medical Board of Australia accused him of unprofessional conduct and professional misconduct.

The allegations related to Lim’s treatment of a young Somalian man. He has been fined $2000.

Lim must undertake nine monthly supervision sessions including patient communication, ‘red flag’ symptoms presentations, referalls to medical practitioners and hospitals, record keeping, receipt issuing, proper labelling and dispensing of herbs, informed consent and compliance with the Board’s codes and guidelines.

At his own cost, Lim has to have reports prepared on his progress under the supervision courses.

In a related case, practitioner Mei Yang, who worked at Footscray, must undertake 10 onehour mentoring sessions at her own cost.

The sessions are to cover record keeping, proper labelling and dispensing of herbs, informed consent and the following of guidelines.

Payout increase ■ A $20,000 payout to Graham Monks by the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal has been increased to $33,000, by order by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Senior Member Robert Davis.

Mr Monks is to receive the money because of distress he suffered after the murder of his brother Ian. Graham, 49, was present when the murder was committed by nephew Milner Monks.

■ Min 12. Max 21. Shower or two developing. Partly cloudy. Isolated showers later in the day. Light winds tending southwesterly up to 20 kmh during the afternoon.

Where is Dakota’s cash?

■ Teenage stroke victim Dakota Duke has been embroiled in a messy fund-raising venture which has left her without some of the money donated by the Bendigo community.

Half of the money raised through a charity golf day and lunch organised by Ricky Nixon and his assistant Tania Drummond disappeared in the weeks after the June event, reports the Bendigo Advertiser.

Granny crime spree ■ Two grandmothers targeted eight Geelong shops during an afternoon crime spree that netted almost $2700 worth of clothes. The women, both in their 60s and with prior history of thefts, now have a suspended 14-day jail term hanging over their heads for the next six months, reports the Geelong Advertiser.

Mary Smith, 67, of Wallan, and Valerie Hillier, 65, of Moonee Ponds, pleaded guilty to eight counts of shop theft.

Charity accused ■ Two-time bankrupt Andrew Robert Mansell, 52, originally from Bairnsdale, has been accused by Fairfax Media of setting up a ''spurious'' aid organisation - World Humanitarian Aid Foundation - through which he is accused of defrauding millions of dollars from investors.

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 TELL TALE SIGNS THAT YOUR NEIGHBOUR MIGHT HAVE WON MILLIONS IN OZ LOTTO 5.You notice his in-ground pool is filled with Perrier.

4. Their garbage goes out gift-wrapped..

3. His children have their school-lunches made by Neil Perry.

2. The family sends food parcels to Gina Rinehart.

1. He can afford to fill his car with petrol.

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne People

● Jason, Elaine and David Marriner

Opening Night More Sex Please, We’re Seniors Comedy Theatre

● Lisa Edwards with David Mann

● Antonio and Karen Zeccola

● Liz Copping with Val Jellay

● Joan Brockenshire and Tommy Dysart

● Carol Smith and Christine Paradine

● Reg Gorman with John Newman

● John Wood with Malcolm Cooke

● Joan and Gary Mac

● Dennis Smith with Annie Mann

● Stefan Dennis with wife Gail

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Page 11

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Court Roundsman

The Owl and The Pussycat

DOCTOR’S SUSPENSION REVERSED Next To Normal

Briefs Ouch!

● Shane McInnes ■ He swears he didn’t touch a drop of the hard stuff all day, but Derby Day at Flemington was painful for 3AW sports man Shane McInnes.

Shane split his head open on a model horse head in the studio, bedning over to pose for a photo.

To open ■ The Arts Centre Melbourne exhibition War Horse and the Breath of Life opens at 11am this Friday (November 9).

Gold!

■ The effective suspension of a Victorian doctor by the Medical Board of Australia has been reversed by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

But he will be subject to thrice-weekly urine tests and must keep his hair at least 3cm in mlength.

The doctor, who cannot be named by order of VCAT, had had conditions placed upon his practising certificate. The doctor specialises in anaesthesia The VCAT hearing before Deputy President Heather Lambrick and members B Collopy and B Burge, heard that the doctor had been accused of discrepancies in recording and/or disposing of the drug Fentanyl.

A nurse gave evidence that the doctor’s behaviour was suspicious and erratic.

A second nurse had reported the doctor’s demeanour to her Unit Manager. He was scatching his arms, neck, behind his ears, his abdomen and his waistline, and his pupils were extremely constricted.

On one occasion, a nurse observed the doctor leaving with a fully-drawn syringe in his front top pocket, and going to the bathroom. The doctor admitted use of cannabis and ecstasy 15 years ago.– The Board said VCAT should consider the doctor’s unaccounted quantity of Fentanyl, his demeanour, bathroom attendances, patient care and a bruise on his arm.

The VCAT panel said it did not believe that the doctor’s behaviour posed a serious risk to the public.

The doctor said he did not have a substance abuse problem and had not diverted use of the Fentanyl towards his own use.

Evidence was offered that last year the doctor had self-administered the hypnotic drug Propofol, and he had been found unconscious whilst on duty.

VCAT was told that the doctor attempted to take his own life last year, using a hospital needle to cut his wrist. VCAT was asked to consider if the doctor actually had a substance overdose, rather than had made a suicide attempt.

● Brittany Lewis, Paul Watson and Rosa McCarty in Williamstown Musical Theatre Company's production of Next To Normal, opening Friday (Nov. 9).

Photo: Gavin D Andrew ■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company presents Next To Normal from November 9-24 at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, cnr. Melbourne Rd and Electra St, Williamstown.

This emotional powerhouse of a musical portrays the intricacies of a family trying to take care of themselves and each other in the face of a mother's deteriorating mental state.

WMTC's show is directed by Shaun Kingma, with musical direction by Tyson Legg and movement by Nadia Gianinotti.

Tickets: $35/$32/$28. Black tie gala night November 9 $28 flat rate. Devonshire tea special on November 11.

Bookings: 1300 881 545 or www.wlt.org.au

Special subsciption offer ■ The price of a Melbourne Observer 45-issue mail subscription rises to $228 on Friday next week (Nov. 16). Our special $99 offer (coupon below) is available for just one more week.

50 Golden Years

● Mike Menner ■ Back from Europe, one of Melbourne’s popular radio men is returning to Yarra Valley FM 99.1` with Mike Menner Strikes Gold, Thursdays 7pm9pm,from next week (Nov. 15).

PHOTO: ALLAN SPENCER

● Jim Maumill (standing), Alan Rundell, Tom Bone, Tony Johnson and Norm Moore rehearse a number for the Warrandyte 55 Plus Variety Group's Remembering 50 Golden Years Cabaret on Friday, November 30 at 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start at the Warrandyte Senior Citizens Club Hall, 1-3 Taroona Ave, Warrandyte. Tickets: $10 donation. BYO food and drink. Bookings: 9877 1077.

● Freya Pragt, Susannah Frith, Sebastian Gunner, Jason Cavanagh and Tom Molyneux.

■ Repertory theatre was something that used to happen in Australia, and was very much the way to build a theatre company. It was also the tradition in England in which fine actors like Judi Dench learned their craft and were kept employed.

Having to perform in one production at night while rehearsing another in the day was the norm, and over a period of a few weeks, actors needed to be able to perform in several shows in rotation.

These days in Australia, repertory theatre is a thing of the past, but young theatrical entrepreneur Jason Cavanagh, artistic director of 5pound theatre, is bringing it back at his performance space, The Owl and the Pussycat, in Richmond.

Jason and four other actors, with five directors, are performing in five shows over a five-week period.

This week George Bernard Shaw's classic Pygmalion (think My Fair Lady without the music!) is up and running. Next week, from November 13 17, the intrepid cast takes on Sally…A Musical, while November 20 - 24 has the play The Unnamed, Nov 26 - Dec 1features Falling Petals and the final week December 3 - 8 will have a big finish with a reduced version of Shakespeare's Hamlet.

At the end of the five-week season there will be five very tired but happy actors!

Jason Cavanagh's idea is to establish stronger roots in the community and expose people to a style of theatre that has an immediacy and a vibrancy that he feels is largely lost with more rehearsed theatre.

The danger element that anything can and does happen will keep both actors and audiences on their toes. If you would like to be part of Jason's exciting experiment and see live theatre history in the making, you can find full details at www.5pound.com.au The Owl and the Pussycat is at 34 Swan St, Richmond, opposite Richmond Station.

- Julie Houghton

Your Melbourne Observer Home Delivered For A Year - For Just $99

Anywhere in Australia - delivered by Aust. Post The best way to secure your weekly copy of the Melbourne Observer is to pick-up your copy at your local Victorian newsagent - it’s only $1.95 each week.

However, for some, it’s more convenient to have their weekly copy posted to them. We currently have a discounted offer of $99 for 45 copies.

Send the coupon or ph 1-800 231 311

Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

To: Melbourne Observer Subs PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham 3095

Yes! Please send me 45 editions of the Melbourne Observer for $99. ❏ I enclose Cheque/Money Order ❏ Please charge my Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard, AE) for $99.

Charges appear on Credit Card statements as ‘Local Media’ Name: Address: Phone: Credit Card No.

Expiry:

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Sondheim event changes again ■ A third change has been made to the Stephen Sondheim event at Her Majesty’s Theatre.

An interview which was to have been conducted by TV host Ray Martin, will now become a chat with ABC Classic FM host Christopher Lawrence.

One Afternoon With Stephen Sondheim will now be held at 2pm on Friday, November 23.

Ticket holders are being told they can purchase tickets to the 8pm performance of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum at a special price.

Sondheim’s most famous works as composer-lyricist include A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Sunday In The Park With George and Into The Woods. He also wrote the lyrics for West Side Story and Gypsy.

● Stephen Sondheim

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Arts Extra

Girls sing for their supper ■ What do you do if you are a struggling music student who has the chance to go to a prestigious opera summer school but the lack of dollars is the stumbling block?

You follow the old advice in the nursery rhyme and sing for your supper!

Talented Melbourne singers Josephine Grech and Edwina Dalco, both Bachelor of Music students at Melbourne University's Conservatorium of Music, have the opportunity to attend the highly acclaimed Lisa Gasteen national Opera School, which is rather like an opera boot camp for the most talented young classical singers fro around the country.

During the weeks of the summer school, students will have master classes with major operatic figures and learn so much that will propel them to future operatic careers.

But most don't have a lazy $4000

● Josephine Grech

lying around to enable us to pursue our dreams, so Josephine and Edwina are staging a special concert and auction to raise the money to enable them to attend the Brisbane-based school.

The girls are staging Opera Blooms, a concert which will involve them singing a concert of favourite operatic repertoire and duets on Saturday (Nov. 10) at 7pm at All Saints' Church, 2 Chapel St, East St Kilda.

Accompanying Josephine and Edwina will be Jodie Lockyer, and the girls have managed to secure the services of mezzo-soprano Suzanne Johnston as compere, so the evening should certainly be entertaining and full of good music.

To help Josephine and Edwina to achieve their dream, and enjoy a night of beautiful singing, you can book tickets at www.trybooking.com/BWZV or call 0402 535 576.

- Julie Houghton

Melbourne

Observer Life & Style

WELCOME TO LIFE AS A CARER

■ The official reason for my non-appearance in the Observer for a couple of weeks was that I was on leave.

Well, it’s true, I have been on leave.

I would love to tell you that Peter and I popped over to Paris for a few days of shopping and R and R. Actually, I’ve been walking the mile in the moccasins of a Carer.

And after my experience, all Carers deserve a gold medal.

I’ve been nurse, mentor, chef, personal assistant, in fact, I’ve been in my husband’s life 24/7.

Being woken up by the person lying beside you in bed writhing in agony is very alarming.

The first thing you think of is to phone for an ambulance. Common sense prevails, and I attempted to discover what his problem was.

It was his shoulder and there was nothing else but immediate medical attention.

I felt so helpless, and thought I should have continued with my first aid course. I knew what to do if he wasn’t breathing, but a screaming in pain body was something else.

And how do I get fresh pyjamas on a body that doesn’t want to be touched and then manouevre him into the car without causing more damage and pain, and then drive carefully to the hospital.

Shouldering the pain ■ The Casualty Ward is an interesting place in the middle of the night, and the medical staff on duty should be paid a P.M’s salary to take the abuse they have to suffer.

What is happening to society? Where are we coming from? The casualty ward used to be filled with people who needed urgent medical assistance.

The staff is not there to take abuse from drunk or drug affected yobbos who feel that it is their right to immediate attention.

It seems that Peter has done something to his shoulder that is causing him such agony.

And hours later I took him home with his shoulder heavily taped, morphine tablets and strict instructions not to move either shoulder and to rest.

Didn’t leave his side ■ It’s ages since I’ve done anything in the kitchen due to my problem, so in a second, I was in charge and out of my comfort zone.

Thank goodness I had a few ‘Made For You’ frozen foods in the freezer whilst I collected my thoughts.

Yvonne’s Column

climb it would take no effort from me, except a daily chat to them.

Peter made tall bamboo teepees for the vines to climb, and other than feeding them when we planted the seeds and throwing a bit of water around it took no effort at all.

The perfume from the flowers is so strong, and they come in a myriad of colours that blends with any décor.

The scent is almost overpowering, but it only lasts when the flowers are first picked. It a different story when you walk past the teepees even the next-door neighbour tells me she can smell the perfume.

I just hope they last long enough so that Peter can see what a great idea he had.

Never forgiven me with Yvonne Lawrence yvonne.lawrence@bigpond.com

Feeling like an interloper, I navigated my way round the kitchen. Peter had it set up for his way, and it took me a while to find things in the pantry. However, although slow, I managed with my trusty walking stick.

Of course, my mail piled up on my desk because I didn’t have the time to open it. So I suppose I’ll have bills that should have been paid last week.

The doctor has decided on physio for him hoping that the problem will slowly ease and an operation won’t be necessary short term.

Moosh, our cat, took his responsibility seriously because he hasn’t left Peter’s side, except to rush outside for a wee and then straight back on the bed.

Outside the bedroom window is a grapevine that is housing a few birds’ nests with very maternal mums keeping the eggs warm.

Bought on a whim ■ Usually, Moosh shows great interest in the grape vine at this time of the year, but his first duty to Peter is stronger.

He hasn’t even walked to the mailbox with me. And as he likes fossicking in the garden when I’m there, he’s missing me picking a huge bunch of sweet peas every day. I must have picked over a hundred blooms so far.

I’ve never grown them before, and it was on a whim that I bought a couple of packets of seeds, thinking that as long as the vines could

■ Peter is cautious when it comes to me calling the doctor since I took my duties seriously not long after we had been married.

My mother taught me the procedure when someone was sick: the house should be spotless, with fresh towels and soap in the bathroom.

And the most important, she told me, was to always change the bed linen and to finally put on the white Marcella quilt.

My new husband came down with the Hong Kong ‘flu and I knew that I had to call the doctor, but not before I had done all the things that my mother had taught me.

Meantime, as I was busy vacuuming the bedroom, Peter was croaking to please get the doctor.

The doctor finally arrived and I felt very proud that I had everything in readiness. It seemed that Peter had something more than the ‘flu and when the doctor pulled back the bedclothes, there, nestled beside Peter was our Siamese cat.

The doctor suggested I remove the cat and told me that I should get Peter to hospital.

So I suppose I can understand why he silently scoffs when I give him my diagnosis. But he has never forgiven me.

I did notice he didn’t say anything when I changed the bedclothes and put on the Marcella quilt when I brought him home.

On my blacklist ■ I find it hard to comprehend that a restaurateur would not know that guide dogs were permitted in restaurants.

How upsetting that those three unsighted diners didn’t even get in the door before they were told that dogs were not allowed.

Worse, the women were told that the dogs would upset their customers.

I for one will never think of dining at La Four Seasons in Moonee Ponds, and hope that management has the grace to apologise, but not before visiting the Guide Dog Centre and finding out how we respect the dogs and how they bring independence to unsighted people.

Friends came to visit a few months ago and when I answered the door the first one over the threshold was a big blonde macho and very handsome Labrador.

He didn’t wait for introductions and went from room to room, thankfully not finding Moosh.

I told his owners not to let him outside because being a Labrador I knew he would get into out fountain and have a swim. He pushed open the door and was in the fountain in a second.

He could have come inside but his owners told me that they were training him not to come inside without permission.

It turned out that this boisterous dog, though a dropout from the Guide Dogs Victoria, sat when told, and was the perfect gentleman when inside.

On his way out he stopped for a wee, I commented that he sat down and not lifted his leg.

They told me that they are toilet trained that way.

You learn something every day.

Finding daytime TV

■ Never one to watch daytime television I’ve turned into a devotee of television day and night since I’ve become Nurse Ratched.

Having Foxtel I can look at some great programs during the night. And, oh joy, I’ve discovered an hour of The Bill each morning at 6am on UKTV and late at night for an hour on 7TWO, and I never tire of Midsummer Murders (I’ve never seen sweet peas equal to mine in the glorious English gardens) and a new programme on SoHo entitled The Newsroom.

It’s finished the first run, and I’ll have to wait for the return of the series in the New Year.

I’ve had such support from friends and readers. Even Peter has received a few ‘get well soon’ cards.

Betty Jeffrey has written me such newsy letters and sitting in the sun to read has given me a breather.

I must ask Betty if she has a Marcella quilt.

I’m sure she has.

- Yvonne.

Contact: Melbourne Observer.

P.O. Box 1278, Research 3095 3WBC 94.1FM, P.O. Box 159, Box Hill 3128

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Page 13

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Confidential Melbourne

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

CAROLS TIME AGAIN

Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets

Club 23 celebrations

● John Foreman

■ How late in the year is it already?

Today marks the end of the first week in November ... with only six more Observers until Christmas.

We know it is getting close to the festive season, because we spotted musical director John Foreman coming out of a planning meeting for this year’s Carols By Candlelight.

SCRIBE SHOOTS NICOLE KIDMAN

Rumour Mill

● Which Melbourne scribe’s handy camera work - observing Nicole Kidman at Derby Day was flashed across the world, including an appearance in London’s Daily Mail?

● Ricky Ponting, Ann Peacock and Danny Green at the Club 23 first birthday

Film project at Wagga

● John Wood

■ Blue Heelers star John Wood is understood to be working on a three-week shoot on a mystery Aussie movie project at Wagga. And the Rumour Mill hears that the Seekers might be involved in some filming to celebrate their 50th anniversary. But ssssh!

It’s a secret.

Observer Treasury Thought For The Week ■ “The duration of passion is proportionate with the original resistance of the woman.”

- Honore de Balzac

Observer Curmudgeon ■ “Humility is no substitute for a good personality.”

- Fran Lebowitz

Text For The Week ■ “Honour they father and thy mother.”

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

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

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

■ We enjoyed Terry Brown’s story in Saturday’s Herald Sun about the final performance of Melbourne ventriloquist Ron Blaskett, 90, and Gerry Gee, at Knox next month. Probus members will host the event at the Knox Club.

Did you feel that you read about the story before?

Yes, the Melbourne Observer broke the news in our October 17 edition - three weeks ago.

edness in circumstances where her husband did not know about her debt and ACM knew that she did not want him to know about her debt ■ threats to call a debtor’s friends and employer until the debt was repaid ■ threats to have Sheriff’s officers attend a debtor's home or place of employment in a marked car ■ telephone calls to neighbours and friends of a debtor ■ a threat to issue a warrant for a debtor’s arrest ■ a threat to take action that would result in a debtor’s taxi licence be-

● John Newman ■ Melbourne entertainer John Newman (of Tikki and John fame) is heading to the United States.

Already in the States are a group of six people including Rachel D Taylor, Ken MackenzieForbes and John Hay-Mackenzie from The Production Company.

They are visiting Chicago and New York.

Funny line

● Gerry Gee and Ron Blaskett

DEBT COLLECTOR’S ‘SYSTEMIC DECEPTIVE CONDUCT’: COURT

■ One of Australia’s largest debt collection companies, ACM Group Ltd, harassed and coerced debtors and engaged in “widespread” and “systemic” misleading and deceptive conduct when recovering money, the Federal Court has found.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission brought proceedings alleging that ACM contravened the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act when dealing with eight debtors.

ACM purchases debt ledgers predominantly of credit card, personal loan overdraft debt and telecommunications accounts from financial institutions and telecommunications companies then seeks to negotiate repayment programs with the debtors.

The Court was told that the ACM debt collector training manual that was in use made it very plain that debtors should be threatened with litigation.

The Court found several instances of undue harassment or coercion, including: ■ repeated threats to inform a debtors’s husband about her indebt-

Stateside

Hear It Here First

Gee, I’d heard that!

● Heloise Waislitz, Chris and Andrew Moss and Maryanne Giannarelli

Whispers

ing revoked, and ■ a threat to take action that would result in a debtor being unable to travel overseas.

The Court described the tone of one of ACM’s supervisors as ‘rude, condescending and vicious, no description of this call (and some of her later efforts) can adequately capture the offensiveness involved’.

The Court found ACM persistently misled debtors by implying that: ■ ACM was a firm which specialised in commencing legal proceedings for the recovery of debts (when it was not) ■ ACM frequently commenced legal proceedings (when it did not) debtors had been referred to ACM’s lawyers for the purpose of commencing legal proceedings (when they had not) ■ ACM had decided to commence legal proceedings against debtors (when it had not), and ■ legal proceedings, including bankruptcy proceedings, would be commenced immediately (when they would not),.

E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au

● Mark Mitchell ■ It has been slammed by the critics (see Page 14), but the line of the night at More Sex Please We’re Seniors belonged to Mark Mitchell.

As a retiree, he lamented: “I get more phone calls from India than I get from my children.”

Suspended ■ Victorian teacher James Richard Michael Fiford has been suspened as a teacher until April 30 next year.

The Victorian Institute of Teaching found Fiford wasw guilty of serious misconduct.

Fiford must attend six sessions with his current psychiatrist or a psychologist to analyse ethics, professional behaviour, and the imbalance of power between teachers and students.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Readers’ Club Birthdays/Celebrations ■ Happy birthday to John Gilmour, of Gilmour’s Comfort Shoes of Glen Huntly, West Heidelberg and Mitcham. Gilmour’s is a long-time advertiser in the Melbourne Observer. ● John Gilmour ■ Wednesday, November 7. Ob server reader Angela Ewan of Ringwood East is 60. Photographer Tracy Ryan, who studied at RMIT, and now lives in Darwin, celebrates today.

■ Thursday, November 8. Radio man Bruce McKay is 71, happy birthday mate. Observer reader Nancye Redman of Burwood is 66. Triple Brownlow medallist Bob Skilton is 74. Songwriter John Farrar was born in Moonee Ponds, 67 years ago.

■ Friday, November 9. It is fashion stylist Kate Bollard’s birthday today. Ad man John Singleton is 71. Singer Delta Goodrem is 29; happy birthday Delts.

■ Saturday, November 10. Isobell Tunzi is 95 today. Happy birthday to Daniel Humphreys. Many happy returns to Herald Sun photographer Julie Kiriacoudis. Observer reader Helen Eastwood is 52: “happy birthday Helen, oh-oh”. We remember that it is birthday of the late Bobby Limb (born 1924; died 1999).

■ Sunday, November 11. Observer reader Julie Brown is 56. Our dear friend Fiona Mackenzie is 56. Happy birthday to Joy Brown of Lilydale. Musician James Morrison is 50. Avtor Vince Collisimo is 46.

■ Monday, November 12. Matt Crosina is 33.

■ Tuesday, November 13. Observer reader Jessie Lynch of Clifton Hill is 79. Happy birthday to Observer reader Bruno Scarcella of Coburg, 61.

Reader Jean Sinnnamon of Braybrook is 83. Singer Kamahl is 78.

Melbourne

Observer

Ash On Wednesday

TRUTH AS WE SEE IT

■ We have been having some spirited debate going on, behind-the-scenes, at the Melbourne Observer.

The talk has been about how we should approach theatre and restaurant reviews.

As Editor, I say we owe our readers - who pay $2.95 a copy - the truth, warts and all.

That doesn’t mean being cruel or insulting, but it does require honesty if something is not up to scratch.

Others disagree. They argue we have a duty to support local enterprise.

In this week’s edition, we have TWO reviews of John-Michael Howson’s More Sex Please ... We’re Seniors. I have one view, Cheryl Threadgold has another.

I first met JohnMichael in 1976 on a TV Week photo-shoot. We’ve been good mates in those 36 yearssince.

He taught me, in print or on air, have an opinion.

Say something!

So it saddens me to have the view that More Sex was not up to par.

John-Michael will argue that he has written the show for the audience, not the critics.

JMH and I will continue to be mates. And in the end, it’s right that YOU be the judge anyway.

New life for Nyah

Our Doors are Open!

Former Masonic Centre finds a new purpose as a Men’s Shed

● John-Michael Howson

Long Shots

Anglican Bishop Andrew Curnow, Freemasons Victoria Grand Master Bob Jones, local Councillor Gary Norton and Freemason Frank Sharam

editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au

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

Your Stars with Christina La Cross ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 20) Stick to facts. If you even think about telling any lies to your close ones, then you will come unstuck as what you are really thinking is written all over your face.

TAURUS (APR 21 - MAY 21) You are becoming quite a storyteller, but you are getting clumsy and have forgotten which lies you have told to who. Why not make a fresh start and tell it as it is?

GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) If you are going to be venturing out tonight then make sure you put a little extra effort into the way you look. An important face is around that you are sure to want to impress.

CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) You really are like a bull in a china shop. A little thought can ensure you get the longevity you require. Stop asking for what you think others want and tell it like it is.

LEO (JULY 24 - AUG 23) Jupiter is bringing you good luck in your work and is putting you into contact with some people that can help you to utilise your skills to the limit. This is your time. Enjoy it.

VIRGO (AUG 24 - SEPT 23) Don't let younger people get you upset, it may be time to put your foot down, especially if it concerns financial issues.

LIBRA (SEPT 24 - OCT 23) Old friends seem to be of more importance than usual and many of your sign may even find themselves falling quite hard for their charms. Events throughout this week tell you if they're compatible.

SCORPIO (OCT 24 - NOV 22) This week marks an important turning point in your love life as you finally speak from the heart and let down those defences. This could well be the beginning of a whole new chapter!

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23 - DEC 21) Your need to blow off some steam is obviously a throwback from recent stress and pressures but proceed with caution, more eyes than you think are watching you. Be proud of what you do.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22 - JAN 20) Jupiter is doing a lovely job this month of improving your confidence. So much so in fact, that you should finally feel ready to approach the person you have been dreaming and thinking of.

AQUARIUS (JAN 21 - FEB 19) I must say that you have made a lot of sacrifices for your close ones lately, in particular being nice to someone who is important to them. Gratitude for this kicks in today.

PISCES (FEB 20 - MARCH 20) Are you really interested in the person you're gazing forlornly at? If you're not, you're doing a very good job of pretending to like them. Flirting for the sake of it deters the real love matches.

What the critics said ■ Crikey (Byron Bache): “Across the road from Stephen Sondheim’s A Funny Thing in Melbourne, a new all-Australian musical from John-Michael Howson.

To be on the same block is an insult.

“More Sex is dead on arrival ... the jokes come fast, sometimes as many as one per line. Almost none of them land.”

■ Man In Chair (Simon Parris): “ Just a show that is over-long, under-rehearsed and generally free from the charm and wit that make musical theatre the great pleasure that it usually is.

“Pay the extra and see the fabulous farce playing across the road.”

■ The Age (Cameron Woodhead): “John-Michael Howson's musical comedy about going grey disgracefully is so wrinkled, flaccid and frail, some of our better comedians can't save it.

“The primary problem is the writing: unstylish and uninspired. If this is the best John-Michael Howson can do, it's time he hung up his tackle.”

■ Theatre People (Barbara Hughes): “The producers of More Sex Please, We’re Seniors did well to open the show on Halloween because this show is truly frightful.

“Howson willingly sacrifices plot for the sake of corny one-liners that might have been funny 40 years ago, but generally miss the mark here.”

■ Herald Sun (Kate Herbert): “Howson’s script lacks development or narrative, and the gags are wordy, predictable and often unfunny.”

■ Stage Whispers (Coral Drouyn): “I left the theatre feeling sad and depressed.

Whether you like him or not, JohnMichael Howson has made a significant contribution to the Australian entertainment industry over the past 50 years. It would be a great pity if he were to be remembered for this latest offering.”

When the members of Nyah Lodge voted to return their warrant in August 2009, finding an alternate use for their substantial Masonic Centre, a much loved district landmark, was a significant challenge.

At the time of building, Nyah Masonic Centre was the largest Lodge room in the district. With beautiful 'ceremonial space' and excellent facilities, the Lodge boasted 120 members. The Christmas Meeting at Nyah was a highlight of the district's Masonic year.

Nyah Masonic Centre, at 7 O'Connor Street, Nyah West served as a location for the betterment of men for more than 40 years.

That work continues with the building's new life as a Men's Shed. Now, instead of wearing a white apron, using stonemason's tools and being guided by the principles of the square and compasses, the men wear overalls, protective goggles and work with power tools.

The Men's Shed is the fulfilment of a dream by members of the Anglican community in the district, many of whom, like Frank Sharam and Ern Russell, were the strength of both the Church and the Lodge.

With the support of their local Rector, Rev Graeme Snell, and the magnificent cooperation between Grand Lodge and the Anglican Diocese of Bendigo in whom the property is now vested, that dream has become a reality.

Freemasons Victoria's Grand Master Bob Jones officially presented the building to Anglican Bishop Andrew Curnow earlier this year, and interest in the centre (which also includes a community dropin centre and opportunity shop) continues to grow.

Former Lodge member Ian Watson said, "Many of the shed's members are Freemasons and glad to see their building put to good use".

So far, billy-carts, trolleys and pot plant stands have rolled off the Nyah Men's Shed production line, with a cubby house for the local preschool on the cards.

The Men's Shed movement has achieved nationwide success with Nyah the seven hundred and twenty second established.

They work well in small communities with establishments in the surrounding towns of Lake Boga, Sea Lake and Birchip but, as you read this article, your closest 'sheds' are probably less than fifteen minutes away.

Melbourne's inner city has a number of Men's Sheds, all providing the fellowship, skills development and community service that Freemasonry has offered men for centuries.

As the original Men's Shed, Freemasonry is pleased to support this initiative.

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

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012 - Page 15

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer

Travellers’ Good Buys

with David Ellis

Sir Henry’s home, truly his castle

■ Canadian businessman Sir Henry Pellatt firmly believed in every man’s home being his castle, so when he and Lady Mary decided in 1912 on somewhere new to live, they had plans drawn up for just that – a castle.

He was not the least phased when his architect said he would first need 25 hilltop housing lots overlooking Toronto to accommodate it, nor that it would take 300 men three years to put his castle together.

And as for the cost, that was no problem either: Sir Henry had a loose C$3,500,000 (about $48m in today’s terms) he’d put aside just for his house.

Sorry, castle.

Today, as a result of Sir Henry falling on hard times just ten years after moving into his castle, inquisitive visitors can take themselves on a nostalgic tour of the Pellatt’s remarkable fairytale home.

They can marvel at its 98 Edwardian-era rooms that took 40 staff and cooks to maintain and service, a banquet hall with 18m high ceilings, a kitchen with an oven large enough to cook a whole ox, secret passageways, artworks, a library that once housed 10,000 volumes, three bowling alleys (that were never completed,) and a wine cellar that held more bottles than most of us could contemplate getting through in a lifetime.

There’s also Lady Mary’s personal suite that alone covers an average

● Every man’s home is his castle: the extraordinary castle-home of Sir Henry and Lady Mary Pellatt.

Observer Wines & Liqueurs Melbourne

with David Ellis

Neil’s bin there, done that ■ When you’ve been making wine in the Hunter Valley for 140 years or more and are simply continuing to grow – expanding into such other regions as the Barossa Valley, Coonawarra, Adelaide Hills and Eden Valley to name just a few – you should be well-content in the knowledge that you are doing things right.

But McGuigan Wines’ Chief Winemaker, Neil McGuigan while no doubt content with what he can see behind him, is forever looking to the future, crafting better and better wines and creating new labels to reflect new approaches to his ever-evolving skills, whilst ensuring only the best continues to go under existing labels.

A favourite of ours is his valuepriced Bin 7000 Chardonnay, the 2011 vintage a stand-out medium-bodied wine with a creamy mouthfeel and one that’s delightfully fresh and crisp.

Its powerful aromas are all about tropical fruit and lovely citrus overtones – and yet it’s priced at just $12.99.

Definitely not being in the Not Another Chardonnay camp – we still consider the variety amongst our top three white favourites – we’d suggest enjoying this one now with a simple chicken casserole, quickly grilled white-fleshed fish or creamy pasta dishes, or putting it aside for more rewarding drinking in three to five years time.

One For Lunch ■ If you are into pork stir-fries, a nice wine to enjoy one with is a New Zealand Riesling from Giesen in the famed Marlborough region.

Their 2011 Estate Riesling that’s now available nationally is slightly more sweetish than most drier Rieslings, which is why it will go well with that pork stir-fry… the palate has flavours of tangelo, and touches of honey. It’s also got a slightly lower than usual alcohol content at 10.5 per cent.

Pictured ■ Ideal with a simple chicken casserole or quickly grilled whitefleshed fish.

■ Slightly sweeter than usual and lower in alcohol, enjoy with a pork stir-fry.

Australian suburban house block, and a couple of secret passages that, according to legend, were there should Sir Henry have need to slip away unnoticed..

Henry Pellatt was born into a wealthy Canadian stock-broking family in 1859, and as a young man made a fortune from the family company and his own investments in everything from railways to insurance companies and founding the Toronto Electric Light Company.

While he chaired the boards of 21 companies, he was also very active in the volunteer Canadian Queen’s Own Rifles, while Lady Mary worked tirelessly with the Canadian Girl Guides, receiving their highest honour, the Silver Fish.

Henry Pellatt was awarded a knighthood for his services both to the Queen’s Own Rifles and for bringing electricity to Toronto from Niagara Falls.

The Pellatts moved into their castle in 1914 and named it Casa Loma, Spanish for The House on the Hill.

Because one of his investments was the Roman Stone Company, the castle was built of replica ancient roman building blocks the company cast from concrete, with foundations sunk 15m into the ground to support it.

A keen horseman, Sir Henry’s stables had each horse’s name displayed in gold leaf on their stall’s mahogany doors. And in case it rained, a 250m-long tunnel ran 6-metres under an outside roadway to link castle and stables.

Although designed externally along medieval lines, Casa Loma had some amazing mod-cons for its time, including showers with nozzles spraying from the top and three walls as well, and one of Canada’s first private elevators.

And being keen gardeners the Pellatts had a conservatory and potting house with floors and walls of Italian and Canadian marble, topping it with a stained-glass dome that was backlit with 600 new-fangled electric light bulbs to show it off by night and day – and promote the product of his Toronto Electric Light Company.

To communicate through the castle’s jigsaw of rooms and the outside world, a private 59-line telephone exchange handled more calls in its first few years than the entire City of Toronto.

But World War I hit Sir Henry hard, his stock crashed, companies folded and he and Lady Mary were forced to auction off C$1.5m in art and furnishings for a mere C$250,000, abandoning Casa Loma in 1923 for their small farm outside town; Lady Mary died that same year and Sir Henry in 1939.

For a while the castle operated as a luxury hotel and became a popular nightspot. The City of Toronto seized it for unpaid taxes in 1933 and leased it to the Kiwanis Club of Toronto (later the Kiwanis Club Casa Loma,) which used it to raise funds for the castle’s maintenance and charitable projects until management was taken over again in 2011 by the City Council.

Casa Loma is open daily except Christmas Day, and the 2ha gardens from May to October; for details visit www.casaloma.org

Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 7, 2012

■ One of the great things about writing this column is that I enjoy writing about people that many of our readers may have forgotten about over the years.

To be able to bring back the memories is very rewarding and it is nice to remember performers who were a part of our lives.

I can safely say that the first time I recall seeing Denzil Howson on television was as ‘Professor Nitwitty’ on The Happy Show on GTV -9 in the early days of television.

He was a regular performer on the children's program with Happy Hammond, Ron Blaskett and Gerry Gee, Susan Gaye Anderson, Elaine McKenna, Bernard The Magician, Ernie Carroll and many others.

During his career Denzil became an actor, writer, director and producer in radio, television, film and theatre.

Denzil Edward Howson was born in 1918 in the Melbourne suburb of Glenferrie.

His father had been an engineer with the PMG and in 1938 young Denzil attended the RMIT with the view to becoming a radio engineer.

Denzil served in the Army during the Second War World but became ill and was sent to the Heidelberg Military Hospital where he worked in Army education.

Denzil spent four years at radio station 3YB in Warrnambool where he produced many programs.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Whatever Happened To ...

Denzil Howson

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM He returned to Melbourne where he began reading The Argus news services and was heard on several radio stations.

In 1951 Denzil married Dorothy Bradshaw and they visited England in 1952 where he studied television techniques.

After the arrival of their son Paul in 1954 they finally settled in their family home in Malvern.

Their daughter Clare was born in 1956 and at that time Denzil became involved in the live Olympic Games telecasts as a director and cameraman.

He became an Assistant Program Director at GTV-9 and spent many happy years at the Richmond television station.

● Denzil Howson Denzil was versatile and worked as a producer on the famous Christmas pantomime shows.

Ron Blaskett recalled in his book You, Me And Gerry Gee that Denzil produced the film series The Adventures Of Gerry Gee and in 1991 they were both called into Channel 9 to be told that the ‘lost episodes’ had been found in the archives and thankfully the series has now been preserved.

They also produced a series titled Around The World With Gerry Gee and toured the world with their families filming scenes for the show.

Denzil moved onto producing some of the daytime programs on Channel 9 such as Thursday At One and worked with the famous En-

lish film star Jessie Matthews when she took over the show from Evie Hayes.

He also wrote comedy for In Melbourne Tonight and other programs. When he left Channel Nine in 1963 Denzil worked at AMV4 Albury and STW9 Perth.

He was an accomplished actor and over the years appeared in many guest roles in Australian shows such as Homicide, Division 4, Matlock Police, The Sullivans, Prisoner, A Country Practice and Neighbours.

He was in the play Amadeus for the Melbourne Theatre Company and in 1986 played a role in the musical, Me And My Girl. Denzil also worked for a marketing company.

In his later years he was a respected adjudicator at Malvern Theatre Company. I had met Denzil several times and the last time I saw him was at the launch of the marvellous book on The Tivoli by Frank van Straten. I was surprised that he even remembered my name.

Many people have told me that Denzil was a genuine friendly person and a real gentleman.

Denzil Howson passed away in 2005 at the age of 87.

- Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce & PhilSundays at 8.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12 Noon 96.5FM is streaming on the internet.

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

WHY I AM A MEMBER OF THE WOMEN’S AUXILIARY

■ I noticed a gentleman drinking with my mate Paul Hassett in Krafty's Overlanders' Steakhouse one night, and thought he looked vaguely familiar.

Sure enough, I was right - it was Ted Egan. I remembered him from a TV series he has hosted on ABC, and also there was a vague recollection of his using a beer carton as an instrument to accompany his outback ditties.

We got to know each other, and I'd spend many a happy hour in his company, and still do whenever he's in town, or I'm in Alice.

I also introduced him to Keith and Angie McGowan, and Keith often interviewed him for his Overnighters show.

He conducted nightly shows in Alice, originally at the old winery, telling stories of the Outback, and accompanying himself on his carton.

And then about 10 years ago he was appointed as the Administrator, the equivalent of our Governor.

I had a permanent invitation to wine and dine and reside in Government House, but sadly the opportunity never arose.

Now he's just turned 80, and ‘His Tedness’, as his friends know him, is about to be honoured in a ceremony at the Desert Park.

A worthy man, our Ted (AM)!

■ There's talk about resurrecting the Cannonball Run, which reminds me of the last one.

It all began, inspired by the movie of the same name, documenting a race across America, flouting all the speed limits along the way.

Flouting wasn't necessary in the Northern Territory at the time, as there was no speed limit.

The plan was to invite many drivers of highfalutin automobiles from around the world to bring their machines to Darwin, and drive down to the Rock at breakneck speeds. This was not to be a race per se, just a high speed exhilarating ‘run’.

And so it became.

I was interested because of the international flavour, with hopefully a bevy of wealthy potential customers.

So I became a sponsor.

Unfortunately the planned international numbers didn't eventuate - there were only a couple -and my anticipated custom failed to materialise.

However, it was an event of genu-

The Outback Legend

with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au ine excitement, and each town along the way turned out to see the super autos as they sped by.

As is now well known, it unfortunately ended tragically. A red million dollar Ferrari crashed into a checkpoint just near Jim's Place, 100 kms south of Alice, killing the two Japanese drivers and two officials.

A very sombre night at the Rock.

■ I've been a member of the American Women's Auxillary for a few years. Often US businessmen are posted to Australia to work in the US Company's office Down Under.

Usually these gentlemen will be accompanied by their wives as they pursue their chosen vocation.

Of course it's not very likely that these ladies need to seek local employment, so they bond together as a charitable movement to raise money for various local causes.

One of these causes is the Royal Childrens' Hospital. The AWA holds various functions during the year to raise funds for this particular institution - there's usually a specific goal in mind - a particular piece of high tech

equipment -the last one was a laser birth-mark remover. Of course there are raffles and auctions of donated items, and we always donate a nice opal to the cause. I have also donated myself as a prize!

The highest bidders get me for a weekend at Coober Pedy, showing them around.

Each such event has been highly successful, with the winner having a wonderful time exploring this unique town.

The hospital gave us dinner that week last week to thank the donors.

Jennifer Keyte MC'd the event and Etihad provided the venue, both without charge.

I had assumed that institutions such as the RCH were just automatically funded from Government coffers, with a smidge of outside help. Not so!

They rely on donors such as ourselves for much of their support, and there wasn't a dry eye as tales of the children whose lives they had saved and helped were related, and parents told their own heart-rending stories of gratitude.

A worthy cause!

■ The Todd River is of course famous Australia-wide for its presence, running through Alice Springs.

And of course there's always excitement when it occasionally flows with actual water!

However, on occasion, this excitement turns to despair as it floods the town. Every decade or so this additional flow comes cascading down.

Now there's a move afoot to reduce flooding by improving the flow by clearing the river of some excess sand, and some dead branches which have clogged up the waterway.

However, the Aboriginal Areas Protective Authority has vetoed this, citing sacred sites issues.

I often saw big gum trees burning in the river bed when I was there. Apparently two opposing tribal or family groups would be warring with each other, and burning down each other's sacred sites - the big trees.

Now it's down to the branches, apparently.

■ Grog again. Or still. It's been reported this week that many parents are spending the day drinking in the Gap View bar, leaving their little kids and babies waiting outside.

There are 60 - sixty! - premises in

● Ted Egan

Alice Springs which have a licence to sell liquor, and many of these establishments experience the same problems.

One judge recently noted that "there is a never-ending stream of violence" when sentencing one offender for stabbing his wife three times to "get her attention".

"There is one violent case after another, and each case bears a resemblance and disturbing similarity to the one that preceeded it".

I have previously reported that there are gangs of kids, often pre-teen, roaming the streets late at night because mum and dad are drunk at home, incapable of any parental care or control. Often these kids are without food as well as supervision.

As I have often noted, I have seen plenty of attempts to solve the problem, but I've never seen any change, except for the worse, and unfortunately I see no solution. Very sad.

- Nick Le Souef ‘The Outback Legend’

From The Outer

Melbourne

Observer

kojak@ mmnet.com.au

With John Pasquarelli

■ Alan Jones has defied the combined carping of Labor and its lickspittle organisations like Getup and those drongos that spend all their time tweeting, by clearly winning the latest radio ratings - making those panicky advertisers who withdrew their sponsorship of 2GB look like chickens.

What the hell is going on at ACMA - the Australian Communications and Media Authority with its 600-odd employees and huge budget all paid for by the taxpayer?

ACMA is getting stuck into 2GB over its Ray Hadley publicly identifying a serial pest who has been conducting a crazed vendetta for years against Hadley and Jones.

What on earth does ACMA do to justify its existence? TV radio and the print media cannot be allowed to operate like cowboys but 618 employees?

Gillard's call for greatly increased media control by government no doubt stems from the scrutiny of her past by Glenn Milne, Michael Smith, Andrew Bolt and others, concerning the alarm bells first jangled by Bob Kernohan and now Julie Bishop has taken it right up to Gillard in question time, leaving an incandescent PM paddling furiously, unable to label her questioner a misogynist!

What might end up bringing Gillard down in the end will be the cover up.