Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Page 47
e urn lbo Me
ver N ser IO Ob T C SE 3
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer
Radio Confidential: Ward calls it a day ........ Page 48 Veritas: Language upset in radio ads ............... Page 49 The Spoiler: Next week’s ‘soaps’ plotlines ............ Page 49 Jim and Aaron: Best DVD-film selections ................. Page 50 Cheryl Threadgold: Community Theatre - it’s a wrap ...... Page 51 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD
LEO SAYER’S ‘40’ TOUR Country Crossroads
25 years talking movies
with Rob Foenander 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.
● Leo Sayer ■ Hit-makers come and go in the fickle world of popular music, but Leo Sayer is a stayer, a powerhouse performer who is still captivating audiences globally after 40 years. It was in 1971 when Gerard Sayer made the decision to leave his career in commercial art and seriously follow his passion into the world of music and song writing. His manager’s wife thought he looked like a lion with his incredible mane of curly hair. It was that moment that Gerard became Leo – Leo the lion – Leo Sayer. Leo Sayer has sold millions of albums around the world and has had 20 worldwide top 10 hits during his career, many of these self-penned, and he continues to entertain audiences with an amazing live show featuring his uniquely powerful and recognisable voice. ● Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton ■ The Australian Centre for the Moving Image presents the world premiere of Margaret and David: 25 Years Talking Movies, an exhibition celebrating the 25 year on-screen partnership of Australia’s loved and respected film critics, Margaret Pomeranz and David Stratton. The ACMI-curated exhibition will feature iconic reviews, interviews and discussions from Margaret and David’s 25 years on Australian television and highlight the duo’s ongoing advocacy of the Australian film industry, support for art-house and foreign film, anti-censorship campaigns, and their substantial contribution to the field of film criticism. Alongside archival and never-before-seen footage will be a selection of Margaret and David’s personal treasures, including Margaret’s coveted earrings (there’s a Facebook page dedicated to them), David’s ASIO file, and photos with some of the biggest stars of the silver screen. Visitors will also have the opportunity to play film critic via a ‘green screen’ interactive enabling them to review one of four iconic films with Margaret or David acting as their co-host. The hosts of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s At The Movies since July 2004, Margaret and David’s on-screen partnership commenced in 1986 when they founded The Movie Show on the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS). Their passion for film, witty banter and mutual respect for one another has created a unique television partnership and generated a loyal following Australia-wide. Margaret and David: 25 Years Talking Movies is exhibited in Gallery 2 at ACMI in Melbourne from August 17. Entry is free. For further information, visit acmi.net.au
Amazing character Since his first tour down under in the early 1970s Leo fell in love with Australia and in 2009 became an Australian citizen. To celebrate four decades in the music business Leo will be touring throughout 2011 taking his musical party around Australia, Asia and New Zealand. Plans are also underway for tours of England and Europe later in the year. This year’s show will be a look back over Leo’s 40-year journey that has seen him win a Grammy, fill stadiums around the globe with his concerts and ride a wonderful roller coaster of career highs and lows in the crazy world of the music industry. Leo has come out smiling with energy and enthusiasm to burn. Leo Sayer is truly an amazing character. Some say one of the greatest pop voices of our time. His songs are played constantly in all corners of the globe on a daily basis.
Favourite hits At 62 years of age, and with no signs of slowing down, his voice is as strong as it has ever been. His creativity is constantly flowing, fuelled by his boyish enthusiasm and love of music and the art of creating music. He is often working in the studio he built in his house, recording and writing new songs for an album that he will be releasing next year. Leo Sayer’s 40th Anniversary Concert Tour will feature all his hits including You Make Me Feel Like Dancing, Thunder In My Heart, When I Need You, One Man Band, Long Tall Glasses and many more. Songs that captivated a generation around the world and had Australians glued to their sets each week on Countdown. Leo Sayer is remarkable artist, an amazing catalogue of songs and a sensational live show. ■ Wednesday, July 20. Playhouse Theatre, Geelong. ■ Thursday, July 21. Regent Multiplex, Ballarat ■ Friday, July 22. West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul. ■ Saturday, July 23. Wellington Entertainment Centre, Sale. ■ Thursday, December 1. Bairnsdale RSL Club, Bairnsdale.
Hitchcock goes country ■ Air Supply's Russell Hitchcock has gone country with his latest CD release Tennessee - The Nashville Sessions. Now based in the USA, Russell has previously recorded solo albums but this is his first foray into the country music genre. The new release features 20 tracks spread across two full-length CDs and also includes a 24-page colour booklet including lyrics, pictures and more.
The Man In The Hat ■ Melbourne country music artist and pioneer of the Australian country music industry Gary Ellis, The Man In The Hat, has released his fifth solo CD, Keep In Touch. Featuring a great selection of 14 well-loved country songs, Gazza and his interpretation of classics such as Isle of Innisfree, Royal Tele● Gary Ellis phone amongst others is certainly a "must have" CD for all country music lovers.
Gympie Music Muster ■ The 2011 Optus Gympie Music Muster celebrates its 30th birthday with a star-studded lineup of confirmed artists. Australia's A-list of country music stars headed by Lee Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers and others join contemporary music icons inclusive of Ross Wilson, James Reyne and Nic Barker for the sixday event commencing August 23. The event is held in the Amamoor Creek State Forest, Queensland.
Aussies in Nashville ■ Australian country music artists will feature in this year's annual Global Events showcases to be held this month during Country Music Association Music Festival week in . Guitar maestro Tommy Emmanuel, The McClymont Sisters and 2011 Golden Guitar winners McAlister Kemp join an impressive list of international superstars for the fifth year of the showcase. Expat Aussie Mark Moffat (ex Matt Finish) is handling music co-ordinator duties for the event. ● Turn To Page 48
Page 48 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Observer Radio Confidential Showbiz News from stations from around Victoria Overnighters WARD CALLS IT A DAY www.overnighters.com.au
Nick visits Hall of Fame ■ Overnighters ‘Outback Legend’ Nick Le Souef phoned in a report to the radio program last week from the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio. The 150,000 square-foot museum features seven floors, five theatres for films and special events.
● Nick Le Souef
Brendan’s surprise call
● Brendan Scott
■ Overnighters entertainer Brendan Scott phoned into the 3AW midnightdawn show late last week from a corn field in Minnesota, USA. Brendan, his wife Christine, and t h r e e - ye a r - o l d daughter Keira, are in America, for his brother-in-law’s wedding. Brendan and Christine were married in the ‘Wild Turkey capital’ in Caledonia, Minnesota.
■ Magic 1278 presenter Ward Everaardt is to hang up his headphones on July 29 after 40 years in radio. Everaardt, 65, was well known as one of the top-rating hosts on 3AK ‘Beautiful Music’, and later on 3EE. Everaardt has handled the morning program for Magic for some years. His announcement come close to the news of afternoon presenter Ric Ditchburn’s heart attack, and triple by-pass surgery at Monash late last week. Ward Everaardt recalls that his first job was in the early days of Victorian country television. “My fist job was reading late night news on BCV-8 in Bendigo, but I wasn’t quite up to scratch and I got my marching orders after three months. “However, my demo tape sounded good to 3BO Radio and they put me on air and again I was on my way.”
‘MAGIC’ PRESENTER’S 40 YEARS IN RADIO
Studios ● Ward Everaardt with Magic 1278 General Manager Gary Hoffman Ward says his first job to asking “Is everything in Melbourne radio was OK?” “I never did it again.” presenting the midnightWard’s association dawn show at 3XY. “I feel asleep, to be with radio started while awakened by police bang- working in the same building on the front door and ing as 3AW, while work-
r Observbei z Show
■ Radio Eastern President Ray Lawrence is keen to know the history of 382 La Trobe St, Melbourne, before it was used by radio station 3AW.
Country Crossroads
Melbourne Radio Flashbacks
with Rob Foenander ● From Page 47
Chester’s latest release
Happy birthday Philip ■ Nightline cohost Philip Brady leaves Australia this week to travel on the Amber Train between Berlin and Moscow. His 3AW spot will be taken by Producer Simon Owens. Philip will celebrate his 72 birthday on Thursday next week (June 16).
ing for Muzak background music systems, the sound heard in lifts and foyers. Eager to break into the industry, Ward took the advice of an announcer and joined Clark Sinclair’s Radio School. Ward’s association with 3AK extended for 10 years, and the combination has been described as “made for each other”.
● Philip Brady ● ‘The Captain and The Major’: Ian Major and Jack Dyer on 3KZ and 3XY
■ With a performing career spanning 50 years, Johnny Chester is one of Australia's most enduring recording artists. If you loved his classic hits Shame and Scandal,World’s Greatest Mum, and the 1981 Golden Guitar award-win● John Chester ning I Love You So Rebecca, the good news is that Johnny now proudly announces his latest release What You See Is What You Get. Johnny has been profiled in recent editions of Channel 31’s Wrokdown and Foxtel’s Country Crossroads TV shows. - Rob Foenander Melbourne
Observer
On This Day
Wednesday, Thursday, June 9 June 8
Friday, June 10
Saturday, June 11
Sunday, June 12
Monday, June 13
Tuesday, June 15
■ We remember Jim Long (1921-1987). Comedienne Joan Rovers was born as Joan Molinksy in New York in 1933 (78). Australian actress Jill Forster was born in London in 1936 (75). Australian taekwondo champion Lauren Burns was born in Melbourne in 1974.
■ Mining magnate Lang Hancock was born in Perth in 1909. He died aged 82 in 1992. Prince Philip Mountbatten was born on the Island of Corfu, Greece, in 1921 (90). Entertainer Judy Garland was born as Frances Gumm in 1922. She died aged 46 in 1969.
■ Actor Gene Wilder was born as Jerome Silberman in 1935 (76). Scottish racing driver Jackie Stewart was born in 1939 (72). French scientist and underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau was born in 1910. He died aged 87 in 1997. Actor Richard Todd was born in 1919. Died 2009.
■ The late Bob Davis, Geelong football identity, was born in 1928. He died this year aged 82. American singer and actor Jim Nabors was born in 1932 (79). Australian actor Tom Oliver was born in Hampshire, England in 1938 (73). He plays Lou in Neighbours.
■ Australian actor June Dally-Watkins was born in 1927 (84). Country singer Slim Dustry was born as David Kirkpatrick in Kempsey, NSW, in 1927. He died aged 76 in 2003. TV vet Dr Harry Cooper was born in 1942 (69). ABC radio man Red Symons was born in Englland in 1949 (62).
■ Actor and folk singer Burl Ives was born as Burle Icke Ivanhoe was born in 1909. He died aged 85 in 1995. Actor Ross Higgins was born in Armadale, Vic., in 1931 (80). TV news man Petr Mitchell was born in Frankston in 1960. He is 51 today.
■ American songwriter Cole Porter was born in 1891. He died aged 73 in 1964. US guitarist Les Paul waws born in 1915. He died aged 94 in 2009. Australian actor Terry Norris was born in 1930 (81). Actress Diane Craig was born in Southern Ireland in 1949 (62).
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
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Page 49
Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler ANYONE CAN START Veritas
ShowBiz!
For Those Who Have Lost The Plot
Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven ■ Monday, June 13. After Kyle quits the car yard, Lou refuses to swallow his pride and instead throws himself into work. Harold tries to warn him that his actions might have dire consequences, but Lou won’t listen. ■ Tuesday, June 14. While Jade wrestles with her feelings for Kyle, it becomes apparent that her recent behaviour might make it impossible to even be friends. Could a big housewarming party ease the tension? ■ Wednesday, June 15. When their house is ransacked, Brennan is convinced his enemies are leaving him a message. Callum is on a mission to reunite his family . ■ Thursday, June 16. Brennan is feeling pressured by his boss to go into witness protection, but will his feelings for Kate hinder his judgement? Andrew tries to help Paul and Summer find common ground. ■ Friday, June 17. Tash is on a quest to prov e to Iv an that she’s all grown-up, but her latest stunt will only reinf orce that she’s in over her head. Summer is torn over a proposal from Paul.
Home and Away ■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7. ■ Monday, June 13. Marilyn's kidnap of baby George leaves Nicole and Sid feeling helpless. Roo and Laura head to Melbourne to pitche for B&S funding. Elijah and Laura grow close and it's clearly more than platonic. And will Charlie and Brax give into the strong physical chemistry between them? ■ Tuesday, June 14. A burgeoning romance grows between Sid and Roo. Elijah and Laura seal their successful business pitch with a kiss. ■ Wednesday, June 15. Roo sticks her nose in Marilyn and Sid's problems. Elijah and Laura are the centre of Colleen's gossip mill. John misinterprets Gina's meltdown
Media Flashes
THEIR OWN TV CHANNEL
● Megan Castran with Andrew Lloyd Webber at Love Never Dies Armed with a camera and micro■ Melbourne woman Megan Castran continues to push media boundaries, and phone, Megan interviews the big stars demonstrate that ANYONE can run their on local red carpet events, and then airs her mini-programs on Facebook. own form of TV station. Megan has 1692 followers on her perMegan has become well known in local media circles, particularly after her sonal Facebook page, and 3102 fans to links with Oprah Winfrey. Oprah even her Jewelchic page. Not huge admittedly, but this is how visited the Castran home, in her recent ‘new media’ will take on the ‘old’. Australian visit.
GETAWAY CHOPPED
★ ★
★
Age Editor-in-Chief, Paul Ramadge this week wrote to Herald Sun Editor-in-Chief Phil Gardner accusing the tabloid of plagiarism over a report that top Victorian policeman Sir Ken Jones was being bugged by the Office of Police Integrity. According to The Saturday Age, Ramadge has asked for a written explanation and an undertaking that such ‘plagiarism'’ will not happen again. Veritas ponders if Ramadge will still be in his job at The Age by the time that the Herald Sun replies.
■ Nightline cohost Bruce Mansfield last week spoke of seeing a neon sign at Cranbourne “on the way to Adelaide”. Heaven knows which direction he was travelling in ... Mansfield lives in leafy Eaglemont! That gaffe was ● Bruce Mansfield not as serious as Mansfield going to air with unconfirmed reports of a Digger’s death in Afghanistan. Doesn’t Bruce realise the national security issues at stake? Our military enemies DO monitor Australian media for any tactical advantage they can get. ■ And what about the lady who told Bruce that she needed oxygen for medical reasons. “Oh! Good on you!” Bruce congratulated. Does this man not even listen to callers?
Observer Reader Special Offer
Nothing definite, but is Ten consid ering a ‘lite’-version of Big Brother for the summer non-ratings season as a ‘seat-warmer’?
Barry Rose’s Last Recording: ‘Rose Of The Valley’ $20 including postage and handling
Urban planning expert Bill Kusnirczuk (Streetwise, Saturday mornings, 3AW) voices commercials for sponsors Stockdale and Leggo, in which he says the real estate agents have an intimate knowledge of the communities they serve. He goes on to name some of the suburbs in which they operate, mispronouncing Reservoir, according to its common usage. Kinda defeats the purpose of the ads, Veritas reckons.
THE PROGRAM (contains no repeats from previous Barry Rose CDs): 1 All The Things You Are 2 Red Roses For a Blue Lady 3 How Deep Is The Ocean 4 I Don’t Know How To Love Him 5 I’ll Be Seeing You 6 The Desert Song 7 Theme From ‘The Apartment’ 8 Both Sides Now 9 Sway 10 Hello Dolly 11 Sunday Morning Coming Down 12 Somebody Else Is Taking My Place 13 I Know Him So Well 14 I Left My Heart In San Francisco) 15 La Mer 16 Younger Than Springtime 17 You’ll Never Walk Alone 18 Gethsemane (from Jesus Christ Superstar) 19 Strangers In The Night 20 Dance With a Dolly (with a Hole in Her Stocking) 21 Let It Be Me 22 A Time For Us 23 When I Grow Too Old To Dream 24 What a Wonderful World 25 Goodnight Sweetheart
Simply send the form below. All orders will be despatched within two working days of cheque/money order clearance. Please PRINT CLEARLY your name/address/phone number, and mail with cheque or money order to Resonance Recording Co
To: Resonance Recording Co 16 Christine Ave, Berwick PO Box 565, Berwick, Vic 3806 Yes! Please send me the Barry Rose CD. I enclose my Cheque/ Money Order for $20. Name: .....................................................................................
★
Ex-Herald Sun Editor and current Age columnist Bruce Guthrie has ‘tweeted’ in favour of Ramadge. Guthrie last year penned an antiMurdoch book
■ Veritas is not a prude, but bad language is a mistake on any radio or TV program. Derryn Hunch has a What P----- Me Off segment. No doubt Hinch uses the title to do just that. Likewise, advertiser Hampers Galore refers to ‘Christmas Crap’ in its radio commercials. To many people, particularly oldies, out would come the swear jar.
Episodes of Getaway (Nine) have been trimmed from an hour to 30 minutes. Will there be further cuts?
★
SKY News presenter John Mangos (pictured at right, with Graham Kennedy, left) is being criticised for his words on PM Live of a Chinese man: “Black hair, squinty eyes and yellow skin”.
Bad language upset
Which way did he go?
● Gretel Killeen
★
Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic
Address: ................................................................................ ● Bill Kusznirczuk
...................................... Phone: ............................................
Page 50 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Observer Showbiz DVD and Blu-Ray Releases FILM:
MR. WARMTH - THE DON RICKLES PROJECT .... Two Disc Collector's Edition: Cast: Don Rickles, Clint Eastwood, Robin Williams, Johnny Carson and Many More! Genre: Comedy. Year: 2007. Rating: M. Running Time: 127 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: **** Verdict: There is never-a-dull-moment in this hysterically funny feature length documentary from Blues Brothers, Animal House and An American Werewolf in London director John Landis of comic legend Don Rickles, overflowing with unforgettable tear inducing gags and comic vignettes, the outstanding DVD set includes uproariously side-splitting never-before-filmed footage of his legendary live Las Vegas show. A legend amongst his peers, a Who's Who of guests and interviews from stage and screen include Bob Newhart, Debbie Reynolds, Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, Sidney Poitier, Clint Eastwood, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and many more, along with home movies, riotous clips from the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, and various TV shows and movies etc. The perfect testimony to an unparalleled talent, no one is safe in this wonderfully caustic, insightful, unmissible and timeless laugh-out-loud journey with one of the last comic legends, one of the most inventive and unique comedians the world has ever known. FILM: UNSTOPPABLE: Cast: Denzel Washington, Chris Pine, Rosario Dawson. Genre: Action/Drama/Thriller. Year: 2010. Rating: M. Running Time: 93 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ** Verdict: A loud, noisy and unrelenting pot-boiler of an unmanned, halfmile-long freight train thundering toward a city and a veteran engineer and a young conductor who race against the clock to prevent a catastrophe, loosely inspired by true events, director Tony Scott's MTV music video style cutting and shaky-cam are an assault and insult on the senses that barely let up in this pulse pounding no brainer, but if that's what you like, which I admit to getting a kick out of from time to time, then this one is definitely for you, a guilty pleasure, but for more character driven and tension filled train related action-thrillers you simply can't go past Andrei Konchalovski's 1985 nail-biting chiller Runaway Train or John Frankenheimer's thrilling 1964 WWII epic The Train. FILM: TRUE GRIT: Cast: Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Hailee Steinfeld. Genre: Western. Year: 2010. Rating: M. Running Time: 110 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***1/2 Verdict: This remake of the 1969 John Wayne Oscar winning classic of tough U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn, who helps a stubborn young woman track down her father's murderer, is far more dark and brooding than its brisk and sprightly predecessor, and far more faithful to the book by Charles Portis, Jeff Bridges is a standout as the, cold, boozing and cynical Marshal, as is newcomer Hailee Steinfeld as the young girl hell bent on revenge, and as a result legendary filmmakers Joel and Ethan Coen have created a beautifully filmed adventure and a fitting tribute to a revered western tale that remains respectful to an established classic and an original in its own right. FILM: THE LAST OUTLAW: Cast: John Jarratt, Sigrid Thornton, Steve Bisley, Gerard Kennedy. Genre: Western/Mini-Series Series. Year: 1980. Rating: M. Running Time: 379 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: **** Verdict: Superb four part mini-series set between 1869 and 1880 detailing the life story of Ned Kelly, far superior to the 1970 version starring Mick Jagger, and way ahead of the flat and dismally boring 2003 version, the outstanding cast are all at the top of their game, and direction, cinematography and production design are also all spot on, the flaws are minimal and not worth thinking about, but without doubt the end result is by far the quintessential or definitive telling of the Ned Kelly legend, an epic mini-series over six hours of entertainment that is sure to captivate and enthral from beginning to end. FILM: Cast: neth More. Genre: Year: Rating: Running Time: Format: Stars:
MORNING DEPARTURE: John Mills, Richard Attenborough, Bernard Lee, KenWar/Drama. 1950. PG. 102 Minutes. DVD. ****
Turn To Page 55
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Movies, DVDs
With James Sherlock
Reviews by Aaron Rourke
CARPENTER RETURNS The Films of John Carpenter 'Dark Star' (PG) (1974). ***1/2 (DVD) 'Assault On Precinct 13' (R) (1976). ***** (DVD) 'Halloween' (R) (1978). ***** (DVD) 'Someone's Watching Me' (M) (1978). *** 'Elvis' (PG) (1979). **** (DVD) 'The Fog' (M) (1980). ***** (DVD and Blu-Ray) 'Escape From New York' (M) (1981). ***** (DVD and Blu-Ray) 'The Thing' (MA) (1982). ***** (DVD) 'Christine' (M) (1983). **** (DVD) 'Starman' (PG) (1984). **** (DVD) 'Big Trouble In Little China' (M) (1986). ***** (DVD and BluRay) 'Prince Of Darkness' (M) (1987). **** (DVD) 'They Live' (M) (1988). ****1/2 'Memoirs Of An Invisible Man' (M) (1992). * (DVD) 'In The Mouth Of Madness' (M) (1995). ****1/2 (DVD) 'Village Of The Damned' (M) (1995). ** (DVD) 'Escape From L.A' (M) (1996). *** (DVD) 'Vampires' (MA) (1998). **** (DVD) 'Ghosts Of Mars' (MA) (2001). *** (DVD and Blu-Ray). ■ After a Stanley Kubrick-style absence of ten years, legendary director John Carpenter returns with his first feature film since 'Ghosts Of Mars' back in 2001. While it may not be up there with his best, 'The Ward' is an enjoyable, old-fashioned horror movie that shows the sure hand of a talented, experienced film-maker at work. Set in 1966, the story centres on Kristen (Amber Heard), a troubled young woman who has just been admitted to a mental asylum. Put in an isolated ward with four other disturbed patients, Kristen is treated by Dr Stringer (Jared Harris), who seems to be using unconventional methods to try and cure the psychologically unhinged women. It doesn't take long for Kristen to realise that the asylum is haunted by a menacing, ghostly presence, which seems to be targeting the girls inparticular. Carpenter knows the value of creating mood and atmosphere, slowly building to moments of shock and horror, and he does this with skill, using the asylum setting effectively, capturing the dark, sparsely lit corridors, offices, and therapy rooms with the kind of lovely, slow-moving tracking shots that are synonymous with his work. It is an approach that initially feels jarring but refreshing, as we are so used now to modern film-makers throwing everything in our face from the opening second, with an overly jittery and hyperkinetic style that quickly becomes tiresome. The viewer is allowed to absorb
seemingly small moments (the early scenes of Kristen getting used to her new environment, the girls listening to an old record) that genuinely gives the film an atmosphere that can envelop and involve. Why 'The Ward' is never able to truly take-off is simple; the script by Michael and Shawn Rasmussen is predictable and paper-thin. The other patients aren't given enough specific detail to make the mystery elements more compelling, and makes the twist quite obvious. A more personable cast would have also helped. One can see why Carpenter was attracted to the project, given its haunting locale and interesting character set-up, but one wishes he made sure the script was stronger and more satisfying in these areas before going ahead. It is also a sign of the times that Carpenter isn't surrounded by his regulars, such as cinematographer Garry B Kibbe, editor Edward A Warschilka, producers Sandy King and Larry Franco, and actor Peter Jason. Most notable is Carpenter's absence as composer and that this is his first film since 'Dark Star' (1974) that hasn't been shot in Panavision, two areas Carpenter always excelled at. Despite its flaws, 'The Ward' is still a cut-above the current crop of horror movies, due to a director who has thankfully not lost his cinematic eye. It is just a pity we have to experience it for the first time on DVD, instead of on a cinema screen where it belongs. RATING - ***
Melbourne
Observer
Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE HANGOVER PART II. 2. PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES. 3. WATER FOR ELEPHANTS. 4. SOURCE CODE. 5. THOR. 6. FAST AND FURIOUS 5. 7. SOMETHING BORROWED. 8. HOODWINKED TOO! HOOD VS. EVIL. 9. SNOWTOWN. 10. GET LOW. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: JUNE 2: CANE TOADS: THE CONQUEST, HERE I AM, JULIA'S EYES, MEEK'S CUTOFF, X-MEN: FIRST CLASS. JUNE 9: ORANGES AND SUNSHINE, SUPER 8. THE DVD TOP SELLERS: 1. THE BLACK SWAN [Drama/ Thriller/Dance/Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis]. 2. THE NEXT THREE DAYS [Crime/ Action/Thriller/Russell Crowe, Olivia Wilde, Liam Neeson]. 3. THE KING'S SPEECH [Drama/ Historical/Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Geoffrey Rush]. 4. THE GREEN HORNET [Action/ Comedy/Crime/Seth Rogan, Jay Chou, Cameron Diaz]. 5. HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HOLLOWS: Pt 1 [Fantasy/Adventure/Daniel Radcliffe]. 6. SANCTUM [Drama/Adventure/ Richard Roxburgh, Ioan Gruffudd]. 7. TRON: LEGACY [Sci-Fi/Jeff Bridges, Michael Sheen, Olivia Wilde]. 8. THE FIGHTER [Drama/Sport/ Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Melissa Leo]. 9. TANGLED [Family/Animated/ Voices: Mandy Moore, Ewam McGregor, Steve Martin]. 10. GULLIVER'S TRAVELS [Fantasy/Comedy/Adventure/Jack Black, Billy Connolly]. Also: SARAH'S KEY, THE WARD, LITTLE FOCKERS, ANOTHER YEAR, BURLESQUE, WINTER'S BONE, LOVE AND OTHER DRUGS, RED, THE TOURIST, THE CHRONICALS OF NARNIA: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: UNSTOPPABLE [Action/Thriller/ Denzel Washington, Chris Pine]. HOW DO YOU KNOW [Comedy/ Romance/Reese Witherspoon, Owen Wilson]. NO STRINGS ATTACHED [Comedy/Romance/Natalie Portman, Ashton Kutcher, Kevin Kline]. TRUE GRIT [Western/Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Hailee Steinfeld, Josh Brolin]. FRENEMY [Comedy/Zach Galifianakis, Matthew Modine]. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: ALICE IN WONDERLAND: 60th Anniversary Edition [1951/Disney/ Animated/Classic]. THE ADVENTURES OF MARK TWAIN: 25th Anniversary [1986/ Animated Family]. NEW RELEASE TV/DOCUMENTARY/ MUSIC ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: HANNAH MONTANA FOREVER: The Final Season [Family/Music/ TV/Miley Cyrus]. FOO FIGHTERS: Back and Forth. EUROVISION SONG CONTEST: DUSSELDORF 2011. ● To P55
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Page 51
Observer Showbiz AUDITIONS
Boilerhouse Theatre Company ■ Hair Information Night Sunday, June 12 at 7.30pm. To be presented in late November/early December. For all enquiries call 0449 540915 or visit www.boilerhousetheatre.com
Babirra Music Theatre
Community Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold
‘WEST SIDE STORY’ AT BABIRRA SHOWS ■ Babirra MusicTheatre: West Side Story Until June 10 at 8pm and June 11 at 2pm at the Whitehorse centre, 397 Whitehorse rd., Nunawading. Bookings: 9262 6555.
■ The Pajama Game June 16, 8pm-10.30pm, June 19, 2pm - 6pm, June 20, 8pm - 10.30pm; Dance Audition June 26 at 2pm at Highfield Rd. Uniting Church, Highfield Rd., Canterbury. Co-director: Jason Hoernal, Co-director/choreographer: Kerryn Hoernal; Musical Director: Naomi Osborne. For audition bookings email auditions@babirra.org.au
Windmill Theatre Company
Phoenix Theatre
Fab Nobs
■ Into the Woods June 22, 23 from 7.30pm - 10.30pm at the Phoenix Theatre Company hall, Boronia Grove Reserve, Leeds St., Doncaster East. Audition bookings: 9012 5897.
MLOC Productions ■ Camelot Informational Night June 30 at 8pm at the Parkdale Church of Christ Hall, 174 Como Pde., Parkdale. Auditions July 5, 7, Callbacks July 14. Director: Judy Sullivan; Musical Director: Danny Forward: Choreographer: Merilyn Young. Audition bookings: 9589 4912.
SHOWS
Brighton Theatre Company ■ On Golden Pond (by Ernest Thompson) Until June 11 at the Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Wilson St., Brighton. Director: Peter Newling. Tickets: $18/$16. Bookings: 1300 752 126.
Oliver
■ Jesus Christ Superstar June 24 - July 10 at the Drum Theatre, Lonsdale St., Dandenong. Director: Sue Salvato; Musical Director: Ryan Jacobs; Choreographer: Robert Mulholland. Bookings: 9771 6666.
■ The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee July 1 - 16 at the Fab Factory, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Bookings: 0401 018346 or online www.fabnobstheatre.com.au
Beaumaris Theatre ■ The Importance of Being Earnest (by Oscar Wilde) July 8 23 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd., Beaumaris. Director: Emma Sproule. Bookings: 9583 6896. www.beaumaristheatre.com.au
PLOS Musical Productions ■ Cats July 14 - 23 at the Frankston Arts Centre. Director: Fred Pezzimenti; Musical Director: Bev Woodford; Choreographer: Karen Taylor-Pottinger. Tickets: $39/$34/$26. Bookings: 9784 106
Pippin
The 1812 Theatre ■ Breaking Legs (by Tom Dulack) Until June 25 at 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Robin Miller. Tickets: $22. Bookings: 9758 3964.
ASPECT Inc. ■ Man of La Mancha July 8, 9, 15, 16 at 8pm, July 9, 16 at 2pm and July 10 at 5pm at the Mentone Girls Secondary College Theatre, Cnr. Balcombe and Charman Rds., Mentone. Director: Peter Martignoles: Musical Director: Darryn Wright: Choreographer: Heather King. Tickets: $28/$23/$18 (Gala Night July 8 $5 extra pp). Bookings: BH: 9580 8415, AH 0419 308 636 or www.aspecttheatre.com
FEATURE SHOW ● Chris Burgess (left) is Theo and Drue Goodwin portrays the title role of Pippin in MLOC's fun-filled production of Pippin, being presented on June 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 at 8pm, June 19 at 5pm and June 25 at 2pm at the Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Rd., Elwood. This delightful musical tells of a troupe of Players re-enacting the historic life of Pippin in the kingdom of Charlemagne. Moreover, it is a story of a young man finding his way in the world and trying to do something extraordinary with his life. The show is directed and choreographed by Lyn Laister (Leah Osburn is Assistant Choreographer), with musical direction by Danny Forward. Tickets: $30/ $27/$25. Bookings: 9570 4052 or www.mloc.org.au Photo: Trevor Lowther ● Tyler Delacretaz (left), Jon Christie, Steve Kent, Daniel Nixon, Darren Roberts, Timothy Oon portray the six brothers who seek their own brides in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Photo: Kathryn White ■ Mountain District Musical Society presents Seven Brides For Seven Brothers on June 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 at 8pm and June 19. 25 at 2pm at the Karralyka Theatre, Mines Rd., Ringwood. The show is directed by Adrian Carr, with musical direction by Vicki Barden and choreography by Miranda Brooks. Bookings: 0431 940984 or tickets@mdms.org.au
Melbourne
Observer
Cheryl Threadgold on 3AW ■ Non-Pro Theatre columnist Cheryl Threadgold is heard weekly on 3AW Overnighters program hosted by Keith McGowan. Cheryl presents a segment with the latest community theatre news at 12.45am Wednesdays.
● Nancy (Amelia Hunter) and Bill Sikes (Jesse Thomas) from Oliver! presented by Peoples Playhouse and Kidz 4 Kidz from July 8 - 16 in Cranbourne. Photo: mikefletcher.com.au ■ Peoples Playhouse and Kidz 4 Kidz present Oliver! from July 8 - 16 at the Cranbourne Community Theatre, behind KFC, Cranbourne. Claire Darwish directs the talented youth cast, assistant director is David Stares, orchestral direction is by Malcom Huddle and Leah Osburn is choreographer. Tickets: Adult $22 , Child (3-16yr) $18 , Family (2A & 2C) $70, Concession/Senior $20, Groups (10 or more) $18 . Bookings: 0402 197390 www.peoplesplayhouse.asn.au
SHAKESPEARE: MTC
Hamlet’s The Thing ■ A new production of William Shakespeare’s arguably most famous and performed play, Hamlet, receives a fresh, contemporary interpretation from the creative team that brought Richard III so thrillingly to life in 2010. MTC Artistic Director Simon Phillips will once again direct Ewen Leslie but this time he will on the role of the eponymous hero. Hamlet opens Saturday, July, 23 at 8pm at the MTC Theatre, Sumner. The greatest of revenge tragedies, Hamlet tells the pitiful tale of the young prince of Denmark who discovers that his father has been murdered by his uncle Claudius. What’s more, Claudius has married his mother, Gertrude, and claimed the throne. He must act, yet when and how? As his doubt sets off a tremor through the court, the instability opens Denmark to threats of invasion. Ghosts at night, doubt and despair, madness – real and feigned, false friends, rejected lovers, guilt-ridden consciences, murderous rage, accusations, a delayed revenge, and ultimately, inevitably, tragedy – Hamlet, in its three-hour traffic, bounds all of humanity in a nutshell. Unparalleled in its scope, depthless in its understanding of human nature, Hamlet delivers poetry, wisdom and pity with an intensity unmatched in all of Western drama. “I remember first reading Hamlet at 14 and knowing in my bones that I had struck the motherload. I couldn’t possibly known then what I know now that in its eponymous hero we have the most complex incarnation of a human being ever put on stage; yet my theatre career might be traced back to that moment. I lit my taper from this great blaze. I yearned to direct Hamlet ever since,” said MTC Artistic Director Simon Phillips. Director Simon Phillips Set Designer Shaun Gurton Costume Designer Esther Marie Hayes Lighting Designer Nick Schlieper Composer Ian McDonald Assistant Director Leith McPherson Cast: John Adam (Claudius), Ian Bliss (Marcellus), Jamieson Caldwell (Player Queen), Grant Cartwright (Horatio), Travis Cotton (Rosencrantz), Ewen Leslie (Hamlet), Garry McDonald (Polonius), Robert Menzies (Player King/ Ghost), Tony Nikolakopoulos (Captain), Eryn Jean Norvill (Ophelia), Pamela Rabe (Gertrude), Tim Ross (Laertes), Brian Vriends (Osric) and Lachlan Woods (Guildenstern).
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 52 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 Melbourne
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 24 Across
1. Visionaries 6. Man of Steel hero 11. Tibia 15. Gangster's lieutenants 20. Clumsy lout 21. Tall Kenyan tribe 22. The Boston ... Party 23. Most substantial 24. Sermonises 25. State publicly 27. Causing (havoc) 28. Father (children) 29. Elevate 31. Ireland (poetic) 32. Pester 36. Kenya's capital 37. Gods 38. Prepared (3,3) 41. Takes note of 44. Cymbals sound 45. Dutch centre of govt, The ... 48. Non-professional 49. Mideast shipping passage (3,3) 52. Pushing for 56. Go in front of 57. Dessert, ... split 58. Aerial 61. Culminate in (4,2) 62. California's San ... Fault 63. Vestments 64. Dame Nellie ... 65. Performs service for 66. Joins forces (5,2) 67. Odd bod 71. Canal boat 73. Of sound system 75. Cloudiest 80. Battery fluid 82. Elbowing 83. The T of PTO 85. Vibrated 86. Made reparation 88. Colonial realm 90. Acorn-gathering mammal 91. Dot/dash code 93. Agitated 94. Misbehaved (6,2) 95. Yummiest 96. Prime example 97. A single occasion 99. Unicorn spike 100. Snake 104. Upper leg 105. Tycoon 106. Well done! 107. Freeloaders 111. Spooky 113. UAE sheikhdom, ... Dhabi 114. Estimated touchdown time (1,1,1) 115. Computer/phone link 117. Part of sentence 118. Ate out 121. Brazil's ... Janeiro (3,2) 122. Wood-shaping machine 125. Gambol 126. Clock face 127. Give up (territory) 129. Xmas period 131. Receive 132. Hansel's partner 135. Coober Pedy gem 136. Sticks (to) 139. Peruse 140. International charity club 144. Bravery badge 145. Sultan's wives 146. Cost 147. Grumble 148. Curtly
Across 149. Tuscany is there 150. Kinder 152. Not heavy 154. Surrenders 157. Small version 158. Letter 162. Spinster relative, maiden ... 163. Academy Awards 166. Bathe 167. Assents with head 169. Ayatollah's land 171. Capital of Peru 172. Main Japanese island 173. Rule 175. Raising agent 176. Lead 179. US president, Ronald ... 180. Bird of prey 182. And so forth 183. Facial twitch 184. Encouraged, ... on 186. Half-breeds 189. Scoffs 190. Shrub fence 191. Panic 192. Insists 196. Tofu bean 197. Scythes 198. Monarch's rod 199. Holding up 201. Paraffin oil 202. Stupidly 203. Taunted 204. Carve in stone 205. Inserts 208. Twins zodiac sign 210. Cairo native 211. Teenage heart-throb 212. Disorganised person 213. Tin containers 215. Dodges 219. Paris underground 221. Stop! (nautical) 223. Spear vegetable 227. Robbers 228. Pilot 230. Eighth, ..., tenth 231. Army chaplain 232. Plays at, ... in 233. Nit-picker 234. Fill with blood 238. Synagogue scholars 239. N African country 240. Actress, ... Bullock 243. Changes 246. Fettered 247. Plough (into) 250. Trivial 251. Concur 253. Desists 256. Supervise 257. Wind (of river) 258. Absorb 262. Speed measurement 263. Spoon 266. Rodents 268. Intermediary 269. Goes faster than 270. Wounds 271. Judgments 272. Commercials 273. Kilt 274. Prosecute 275. Adds sugar to 276. Discourtesy 277. Gauged 278. Matchless
Down 1. Disband (troops) 2. Antelope 3. Corn 4. Singer, Diana ... 5. Lampooning comedy 7. Supposition 8. Stripy-tailed US animals 9. Film & Don McLean hit, ... Pie 10. Space agency 11. Depletes 12. Mercenary (5,3) 13. Smooching 14. Formal address 15. Chopping 16. Merit 17. Swimming stroke 18. Servants 19. Dusk to dawn 24. Sheep enclosures 26. Net fabric 30. Very annoyed 33. Yearly book of events 34. US folk singer, Woody ... 35. Stalk food 38. Of heart/lung exercises 39. More fortunate 40. Constant 42. Periods of time 43. Mythical vampire 46. Born Free writer, Joy ... 47. As far as (2,2) 49. Cheese on toast, Welsh ... 50. Blackball 51. London district (4,3) 53. Rush about angrily 54. Lazed 55. Allure 59. Drip shape 60. Most unpleasant 67. Follow-up movies 68. Train coach 69. Tussle 70. Personal reminiscence 72. Deep love 74. Travelling worker 76. Order 77. Made whole 78. Fleshy ear tissue (3,4) 79. Bank clerks 81. Reprimanded severely 84. Nursing sanatorium (4-4) 87. Tinted sun visor 89. Naphthalene pellet 91. Muttered 92. Close watch (5,3) 98. Neglect 101. Early anaesthetic 102. Sow 103. Acupuncture spike 108. Current unit 109. Skin transplant 110. Speedster 112. Rearousal 116. Adapting to stage play 119. Speak off the cuff 120. Outshining 123. Flying craft 124. Newspaper titles 128. Harmed 130. Power-grabber 132. Nomad
Down
133. Banishment 134. Correct (text) 137. Indian group of dialects 138. Bake (meat) 141. Skips 142. Ethiopia's Addis ... 143. Spinning toys (2-3) 151. Distributed 153. Stashes 155. Elephant poacher's cache 156. Cutting beam 159. Mentally gearing (up) 160. Pottery fragments 161. Discarded rubbish carelessly 164. Wear by rubbing 165. Reply 168. Biased (3-5) 170. Famed gangster (2,6) 173. Stayed 174. Lacking ability 177. Lecturers 178. Confined (6,2) 181. Congregate 185. Lessening in intensity (6,2) 186. Siberian dogs 187. Sanctified 188. Trainee doctors 193. Profiteering ticket seller 194. Swaying on heels 195. Common expressions 200. Surrounding 201. Capsize (4,4) 206. Instants 207. Suffocate 208. Clasped 209. Chats 211. Map pressure lines 214. Levee bank sack 216. Include 217. Income cheats, tax ... 218. Equatorial region, The ... 220. Wood joint projection 222. Tot up (3,2) 224. Humiliated 225. Strolling 226. Fruitless 229. Back section 232. Numbered cubes 235. Indescribable 236. Possessed 237. Articles of clothing 241. Turned aside 242. Scorn 244. Normally (2,1,4) 245. Toy bears 248. Trophies 249. Triumphant laugh (2,2) 251. Upper limbs 252. Regain 253. Pitches tent 254. Grand Slam tennis champ, ... Agassi 255. Take (revenge) 259. Internal 260. Summon up 261. Cricket matches 262. Cry in pain 264. Inquires 265. Former Italian money unit 267. Fencing sword
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Page 53
Solution on Page 46
MEGA
CROSSWORD No 24 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
20
11
29
35 41
14
15
25
28 34
13
26
30
38
44
48
49
50
52
58
62
45
51
57
18
19
27
37
43
17
31
36 42
16
22
24
33
12
21
23
32
10
59
53
54
46
40
47
55
60
39
56
61
63
64
65
66 67
68
69
70
71 80
85
72
73
81
82
86
87
88
94
101
102
111
119
126 133
90
106
134
115
121
127
122
128
135
107
114
120
129
136
137
123
131 139
140
148 152
156
157
158 167
172
173 180 187
141
142
143
149
151
166
186
110
125
130
138
147
155
109
145
146
154
108
116
124
144
150
79
99
113 118
78
96
105
112
117
132
89
95
104
77
84
98
103
76
92
97 100
75
83
91 93
74
159
160
161
168
177
178
183
189
165
179
184
190
164
171
176
182
163
170
175
181
188
162
169
174
153
185
191
192
196
193
194
195
197
198
199
200
201
202
203 204
205
206
207
211 215
216
217
208
209
212
218
219
210
213
220
221
214
222
223
224
225
226
227 228
229
230
231
233
234
239
240 247
253
254
248
255
249
236
237
242
243 250
268
269
264
265
245
246 252 258 266
267
270 273
276
244
257 263
272
238
251
256 262
275
241
235
232
271 274
277
278
259
260
261
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 54 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
‘HOUSE FULL’ SIGN FOR QB HOLIDAY MATCH
■ Not only did the Demons do the club and themselves proud with its 33 points win over the Bombers but they gave coach Dean Bailey the chance to relaunch the season and his own tenuous hold on his coaching career. And another ‘bonanza’ crowd for the holiday next Monday – that win will draw an extra 20,000 to around 75,000. Here is the AFL’s Mark Macgugan’s excellent summary: ■ Melbourne, stung by accusations it plays "bruise-free footy" and inspired by a mid-week pep talk from its ill president Jim Stynes, has played its best match of the season to defeat Essendon by 33 points at the MCG on Friday night. After the Demons' 15.11 (101) to 10.8 (68) win, set up by a barnstorming six goals to nil third quarter, victorious coach Dean Bailey revealed details of Stynes' stirring speech, given just "12 to 14 hours" before the club legend went into surgery. "It probably all started when Jimmy spoke to the players during the week … about the importance of showing resilience," Bailey said. "He also mention when he handed the jumper over to (first-gamer Max Gawn) that after the first game he played he got dropped the next week. "He was making the point that it doesn't matter how often you get knocked down, it's how you get back up." (It proves the point the ‘mind’ is all powerful given the right stimulous and motivation and it can ‘move mountains’. No one knows this better than Jimmy Stynes. HB) There can be no doubt that Melbourne's young team, who in Gawn, Jeremy Howe, James Strauss, Dan Nicholson and Michael Evans had five players with a combined five games' experience coming into the match, took the message to heart. Comprehensively knocked down in a sub-standard performance against the Blues the previous week, they got back up to open in spirited fashion against the Bombers. Excessive handballing cost them in the first half, as they struggled to clear Essendon's forward press and went into the main break seven points down. Again Bailey's team climbed back, handballing less, running harder and tackling with vigour as they turned the half-time deficit into a five-goal threequarter-time lead in a stunning 30 minutes of football. As much as hard-bodied, experienced midfielders Brent Moloney and Nathan Jones were crucial, so too were the fleet of talented youngsters. Jordie McKenzie (28 disposals, seven clearances, 13 tackles) had a night out, Jordan Gysberts (30 disposals, four tackles, four clearances) was everywhere, and Tom Scully (24 disposals, six tackles, six clearances) amazed with his endurance in his longawaited return from a knee injury. Down back, Jared Rivers led a superb defence - which didn't allow one Essendon goal from 14 Essendon inside 50s in the third quarter - and young ruckman Stefan Martin (20 disposals, 15 hitouts) again stood up in the absence of 2010 All Australian Mark Jamar. Essendon though was not without some fight of its own. With the club's leading 2011 goalkicker Stewart Crameri well held by Joel McDonald and gun big man Michael Hurley out injured, the Bomb-
Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel ers struggled to find a forward target all evening. Paddy Ryder, playing as the lone key forward in Hurley's absence, booted two second-quarter goals in an otherwise quiet game to be the team's only multiple goal-kicker. While Melbourne’s blitz in the third quarter looked to have decided the match, Essendon suddenly found some room inside 50 in a 15-minute burst to start the last term, and the Bombers slotted three quick goals through David Hille, Angus Monfries and David Zaharakis. Had Crameri then converted one of two comfortable chances in quick succession, the Bombers would have been within two straight kicks and roaring home with the red and black army at their backs. But again, just as Stynes had urged them to do, the Demons buckled down. Skipper Brad Green, a lively contributor from start to finish, kicked his fourth goal of the night with an opportunistic soccer-style hack out of midair, and the Bombers' charge was halted. Green's four majors made him the game's leading goal-kicker, while livewire forward Liam Jurrah booted three to have the better of his duel with Essendon veteran Dustin Fletcher. A trio of goals deep in time-on in the final quarter through Jurrah, Neville Jetta and Moloney put the icing on a memorable victory. Influential players It was hard to find a best player for Melbourne in a game where every player in the red and blue did his bit. McKenzie got the nod for best on ground, just ahead of Gysberts, Scully and Martin. For the Bombers, Sam Lonergan worked tirelessly all game in skipper Jobe Watson's hard-felt absence. He picked up 29 disposals, including six clearances to be his team's best. Jake Melksham played three outstanding quarters in gathering 25 possessions, but only two of those came in the third quarter when Melbourne took control. What it means For all the heat on its coach and scrutiny on its supposed softness and ineffective game plan, Melbourne sits just two points out of the top eight. In statistics that would be immensely satisfying for Bailey, the Demons won both the contested possession (148-133) and tackle (77-51) count.
As Bailey admitted post-match, the challenge now is to get off the "rollercoaster" and get that type of effort on a consistent basis. Essendon, touted as a top-four contender after its impressive start to the season, could now finish round 11 as low as eighth on the ladder. In better news, they look set to regain the crucial Watson and Hurley for their trip west to play Fremantle next week. Next four Melbourne: It's the big clash with Collingwood next Monday, followed by dates with Fremantle at home, Richmond and Western Bulldogs. Essendon: A tough month ahead. They face Freo at Patersons Stadium before clashes with North Melbourne, Hawthorn and Geelong.
Slow starters All other results went mostly as expected although the experts did not expect the normally slow starters Sydney Swans to have their match against Brisbane to be all over at ¼ time and the final massive demolition by 65 points. It pushed Sydney’s percentage up but it is still very low in comparison to the four teams above them and the two teams behind them. Except for Geelong the other top three struggled up to ½ time then took over. Here is the current ladder: Geelong 40pts 147.65%; Collingwood 36pts 170.22%; Hawthorn 32pts 130.60%; Carlton 30pts 132.62%; Swans 26pts 108.28%; WCE 24pts 120.15%; Essendon 22pts 125.30%; Fremantle 20pts 95.20%; Melbourne 18pts 102.57%; Richmond 18pts 90.60%; St Kilda 14pts 90.55% then North, Bulldogs and Adelaide 12pts; Brisbane, Pt Adelaide, GCSuns all 8pts. The early betting odds for next weekend: St Kilda $1.50 v Bulldogs $2.76; Adel $2.42 v WCE $1.61; GCS $3.50 v Nth Melb $1.37; Geel v Haw $2.76; Carl $1.09 v Lions $11.50; Sydney $1.24 v Richmond $3.75; Freo $1.74 v Essendon $2.20 and Melbourne $5.30 v Collingwood $1.18
Coming up Program of Matcvhes (all times are local) Round Twelve (all times are local:) Friday, June 10 St Kilda v Western Bulldogs at
Etihad Stadium, 7.40pm Saturday June 11 Adelaide Crows v West Coast at AAMI Stadium, 2.10pm; Curtain Raiser (NAB AFL Under 18s) – SA v NSW/ACT, 11.05am Gold Coast Suns v North Melbourne at Metricon Stadium, 7.10pm; Curtain Raiser (Foxtel Cup) – Claremont v Northern Bullants, 4.05pm Geelong Cats v Hawthorn at the MCG, 7.10pm Sunday June 12 Carlton v Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium, 1.10pm Sydney Swans v Richmond at the SCG, 2.10pm; Curtain Raiser – Sydney Reserves v Queanbeyan, 10.40am Fremantle v Essendon at Patersons Stadium, 2.40pm Monday June 13 Melbourne v Collingwood at the MCG, 2.10pm
Milestones 650 games coached – Michael Malthouse. Michael is set to become the second person in VFL/AFL history after Jock McHale (714 games with Collingwood) to reach this mark this week, having begun his coaching career in 1983 with Footscray. The leading 20 coaches in the game’s history are Jock McHale (714 games with Collingwood), Michael Malthouse (649 games with Footscray, West Coast and Collingwood), Kevin Sheedy (635 games with Essendon), Allan Jeans (575 games with St Kilda, Hawthorn and Richmond), Tom Hafey (522 games with Richmond, Collingwood, Geelong and the Sydney Swans), David Parkin (518 games with Hawthorn, Carlton and Fitzroy), Ron Barassi (515 games with Melbourne, Carlton, North Melbourne and the Sydney Swans), Leigh Matthews (461 games with Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions), Norm Smith (449 games with Fitzroy, Melbourne and South Melbourne), Dick Reynolds (415 games with Essendon), Percy Bentley (414 games with Richmond and Carlton), John Kennedy (412 games with Hawthorn and North Melbourne), Checker Hughes (378 games with Richmond and Melbourne), Dan Minogue (371 games with Richmond, Hawthorn, Carlton, St Kilda and Fitzroy), Robert Walls (347 games with Fitzroy, Carlton, the Brisbane Lions and Richmond), Denis Pagan (344 games with North Melbourne and Carlton), John Northey (315 games with the Sydney Swans, Melbourne, Richmond and the Brisbane Lions), Rodney Eade (305 games with the Sydney Swans and the Western Bulldogs), Reg Hickey (304 games with Geelong) and Bob Rose (282 games with Collingwood and Footscray). Most Games, Four Brothers – The Selwood Family. The Selwood brothers (Adam, Troy, Joel and Scott) are set to move into second spot for most games in VFL/AFL history by a set of four or more brothers, having played a combined 374 league games. The leading families in history are the Danihers (752 games comprising 313 games for Terry, 82 games for Neale, 233 games for Anthony and 124 games for Chris), the Cordners (376 games comprising 166 games for Don, 52 games for Ted, 152 games for Denis and six games for John), the Hiskins (375 games comprising 50 games for Fred, 185 games for
Arthur, 66 games for Stan and 74 games for Rupe), the Roses (374 games comprising 152 games for Bob, 40 games for Bill, 159 games for Kevin and 23 games for Ralph) and the Selwoods (374 games comprising 143 games for Adam, 75 games for Troy, 103 games for Joel and 53 games for Scott). Club Record Games – Brent Harvey, North Melbourne. Brent is due to play his 312th game this week, breaking the club record of Glenn Archer (311 games between 1992-2007). AFL Life Membership – Barry Hall, Western Bulldogs. Barry qualifies for AFL Life Membership with his 300th official game this week since his debut in 1996, comprising 279 premiership games, 16 pre-season games and four International Rules matches. Most Club Games Coached – Michael Malthouse, Collingwood. Michael is due to coach his 272nd game for Collingwood this week, since taking the senior job in 2000. He will equal Phonse Kyne in second spot on the all-time club list, behind only Jock McHale. The leading coaches in Collingwood’s history are Jock McHale (714 games, 1912-49), Phonse Kyne (272 games, 1950-63), Michael Malthouse (271 games since 2000), Leigh Matthews (224 games, 1985-95), Bob Rose (193 games, 1964-71 and 1985-86). 200 games umpired – Shaun Ryan 150 games – Rhyce Shaw, Sydney Swans 150 games umpired – Ray Chamberlain 100 games – Bryce Gibbs, Carlton 100 games – Michael Pettigrew, Port Adelaide 100 games – Shannon Byrnes, Geelong Cats 100 games – Mark Blake, Geelong Cats 100 games – Hamish McIntosh, North Melbourne Most Consecutive Wins against a Grand Final victor – Geelong Cats. The Geelong Cats have won their last five matches against Hawthorn, since losing the 2008 Grand Final. The Cats can become the third side in history to record the longest streak of wins after a Grand Final loss to the same opponent. Collingwood lost the 1918 Grand Final to South Melbourne and then won the next six matches in 1919 (rds 1 and 10), 1920 (rds 9 and 19) and 1921 (rds 6 and 15). Richmond lost the 1919 Grand Final to Collingwood and then won the next six matches in 1920 (rds 5, 13 andGF),1921(rds5and14)and1922(rd1). Geelong lost the 2008 Grand Final to Hawthorn and has so far won the next five matches in 2009 (rds 1 and 17), 2010 (rds 2 and 15) and 2011 (rd 5). Most career goals – Barry Hall, Western Bulldogs. Barry Hall needs six goals to draw level with Dick Lee in 19th spot for most goals in the game’s history, having kicked 144 goals for St Kilda, 467 goals for the Sydney Swans and 90 goals for the Western Bulldogs.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Page 55
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 6
WET TRACKS GALORE ■ Now is the time of the year if you're a punter, to be aware of the state of our tracks with winter rain, fogs and mist. I remember talking to top Jockey Gary Willetts a few years back about heavy tracks and he amazed with his information. Gary said that looking at the metropolitan tracks, Flemington, Caulfield, Sandown and Moonee Valley, they all race differently. For instance the first three are all grass, while Moonee Valley race on a Strath-Ayr surface. These days we have a fast track, a good track, and then dead, followed by slow and heavy. They are listed in order of surface, and at the moment officials are pondering over the wording ‘Dead’ track. The Dead one serves no purpose and they like most of us, would like something different. The biggest worries for puntersis, say, up to the Thursday before the Saturday meeting it may be listed as a Good 3 track, then the heavens open, and it could end up the heaviest, a Heavy 10. That is when you throw form out the window, and go for the noted wet trackers even if they have done nothing for months. Take for instance the brilliant Sydney galloper, Sacred Choice; every time it rains she gets the giggles. While others; couldn't run out of sight in a fog. Inside Racing, the bible of racing through Racing Victoria, recently listed a guide of some of the sires you should look for when having a wager as they are noted sires of wet trackers as well as dry. Listed in alphabetical order they are; Better Boy, Creole, Encosta De Lago, Good Brandy, Lord Ballina, and sire of the moment, More Than Ready. Then we have Palace Music, Plush, Star Way, Toy Pindarri, Whiskey Road, Woodman and Zamazaan.
Ted Ryan
Observer Racing
Di Rolle’s Column Eva – Tales From The Life Of Eva Cassidy is spearheaded by a highly lauded production team. As well as penning The Man in Black, the Eva’s co-writer Jim McPherson is also responsible for 2010’s hit biographical show The Ultimate Rock ‘n’ Roll Jam Session. The team also comprises Simon Myers, Andrew Barker as Producer and Jodi Gallagher. Tickets are on sale now. Bookings: www.ticketmaster.com.au, or phone Box Office: 9650 1500 Opening Performance: Thurs., August 11 till Sun., August 21, 3pm More information: www.talesfromthe lifeofevacassidy.com.au - Di Rolle ■ From Page 56
DVD Selections
Racing snippets ■ Great news that former top trainer, Brian MayfieldSmith will return to racing after giving it away some time ago. The talented mentor, now in his early sixties, gave it away after a very distinguished career, the most notable feature being him winning the Sydney trainer's title after years of domination by the great Tommy Smith. Brian captured the title in 1986, and from there on dominated the Sydney scene for quite some years. He shocked racing people when he gave the industry away after signing a contract overseas, to help with the preservation of the Black Rhino, a cause close to his heart. Unfortunately Brian and his lovely wife's stay was short lived when the Government of the time backed down on his contract and they returned to Australia and after serious thought he re-entered the field of racing moving to Melbourne, where he established a top team at Flemington. He was a feature at trackwork especially sitting quietly on his pony giving instructions to his track riders. One of his top gallopers was Maybe
Better, who ran a gallant third behind the two Japanese horses Delta Blues and Pop Rock who quinelled the Melbourne Cup in 2006. Not long after, winners weren't coming in and things began to get a bit tough financially and Brian, after a lot of thought, had to give it away. He retired to his lovely property at Yea, but now the pangs are back and he wants to come back into the industry he loves so much. He intends getting a small team together at Yea and hoping he can make a go of it. Why not? He is without doubt not only one of the best trainers in the business, but one of the nicest guys in racing. Best of luck, Brian.
Spirited ■ Two top mares sold at the Magic Millions Broodmare Sale recently. Top galloper, Sister Madly was sold for $1 million, after some very spirited bidding before being knocked down to Bill Mitchell at the Segenhoe Stud. However before she goes to the breeding barn, she will stay race for a while under the care of leading Flemington trainer John Sadler. Another top mare who went under the hammer, was Magic
Verdict: The tragic and nail-biting true story from the director of the Titanic classic 'A Night To Remember' of the crew of a submarine who are trapped on the sea floor when it sinks after an incident with an old WWII mine, and how they must be rescued before they run out of air, the legendary top notch British cast have never been better, full of unrelenting tension and pathos, even humour, one of the best of British cinema, don't miss this one, available on DVD in the 'Silver Screen Collection Volume 1' box set which also includes the British classics 'In Which We Serve' and 'We Dive At Dawn,' great value and great entertainment!
● Brian Mayfield-Smith Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
● Heavy tracks across Victoria Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 Burn, as Mr. Fitzroy's successor. Mr. Burn will become the 20th permanent Chairman of the Club, taking into account the Club's initial policy, until 1871, of rotating the Chair from meeting to meeting. Mr. Burn comes well prepared after being appointed to the VRC Committee in 2003. He joined the audit ■ Popular Victoria committee shortly afRacing Club Chair- ter his appointment man, Rod Fitzroy, will and was elected Vicestep down as Chair- Chairman in late 2008. man on June 24 after Michael is an Exhaving many credits to ecutive Director with his name in the role of the Macquarie the number one at the Group, where he has VRC. built a specialisation in The VRC Board telecommunications, endorsed the current- media and entertainice Chairman, Michael ment industries. Millions Two YearOld Classic winner, Military Rose, who fetched a handy $800,000. She too, like Sister Madly, will continue her career with her regular trainer, Queenslander Gillian Heinrich.
Moves at the VRC
His skills have been invaluable in setting the Club's strategic and financial direction. Michael is also a keen thoroughbred owner. Mr. Fitzroy retires after eight years at the helm of the VRC, as stipulated under the VRC'S constitution and will remain a Director of the VRC. The Victoria Racing Club has also appointed the youngest Director, Elisa Jayne Sturzaker, to their ranks. Ms Sturzaker, only 29, is a Senior Legal Counsel at UGL Ltd and was elected by a postal ballot of VRC members. - Ted Ryan
FILM: HACHI - A DOG'S TALE: Cast: Richard Gere, Joan Allen, Sarah Roemer. Genre: Family/Drama/True Story. Year: 2008. Rating: G. Running Time: 89 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: *** Verdict: A touching family drama from the director of 'The Cider House Rules' and 'Chocolat,' based on the true story of a college professor's bond with an abandoned pup he finds at the local railway station after work and takes into his home, and the dogs extraordinary loyalty after the death of the professor, as he sits in wait for him day and night at the station until his own death 10 years later, this Japanese story was originally filmed as the superior 'Hachiko Monogatari' in 1987 and has now been switched to the U.S. but is no less fascinating, and concludes poignantly with images of the real dog and the statue erected in his honour, a must for all animal lovers and fan's of the similarly classic tale of 'Greyfriars Bobby.' - James Sherlock ■ From Page 56
Top 10 Lists TOP BLU-RAY SELLERS: 1. THE BLACK SWAN [Drama/Thriller/Dance/ Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis]. 2. SANCTUM [Drama/Adventure/Richard Roxburgh, Ioan Gruffudd]. 3. THE NEXT THREE DAYS [Crime/Action/ Thriller/Russell Crowe, Olivia Wilde, Liam Neeson]. 4. TRON: LEGACY [Sci-Fi/Jeff Bridges, Michael Sheen, Olivia Wilde]. 5. THE GREEN HORNET [Action/Comedy/ Crime/Seth Rogan, Jay Chou, Cameron Diaz]. 6. THE KING'S SPEECH [Drama/Historical/ Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Geoffrey Rush]. 7. HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HOLLOWS: Pt 1 [Fantasy/Adventure/Daniel Radcliffe]. 8. TANGLED [Family/Animated/Voices: Mandy Moore, Ewam McGregor, Steve Martin]. - James Sherlock
Observer Sport: Read Harry Beitzel’s ‘Footy Week’ section every week
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 56 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs
Not To Be missed ■ Here's a night not to be missed ! The Metropolitan & Country Harness Racing Association presents: ‘A Night With’ - Featuring Chris Lang (Snr), Kerryn Manning and Bill ‘Hutchy’ Hutchison compered by Rob Auber When : Thursday July 28. Where: Taylors Lakes Hotel, Taylors Lakes 7.30pm Cost : $50. Free drink on arrival, plus supper. For bookings (limited), contact John Muller, 9743 5507 or myself 0401 679 745.
Winners at Shepparton ■ Marong trainer Wally Newton combined with Chris Alford to snare the $5,000 Neatline Homes Pace Final for C1 class over 2190 metres at Shepparton with 6-Y-0 Panorama/Hazel Dawn gelding Pannosus in a rate of 2-01.3. With Chris Alford in the sulky, Pannosus starting from the extreme draw, came from last approaching the home turn to charge down the outside fence in defeating Mach Is Supreme (three wide last lap from mid-field in the moving line) by a nose in a tricky finish, with the favourite Centonic third off a three wide double trail in the final circuit.
Last outing in Victoria ■ In-form Glenn Douglas trained 6-Y-0 Sands A Flyin/Delamaid gelding Our Sand Fly chalked up another victory in the claiming ranks, when successful in the Campbells Soups Claiming Pace over 2190 metres at Shepparton's Kialla Raceway. A revelation in recent months with several victories in this grade going his way, Our Sand Fly (Daryl Douglas) charged straight to the front from outside the front row to lead throughout in accounting for Brulea Charlie from last in a rate of 2-00.2, with the roughie Dark Duncan third after trailing the winner. It was Our Sand Fly's last outing in Victoria, as he was claimed for $9,000 and will most likely do his future racing in Queensland.
Given time to balance ■ Kyabram based Tom O'Shea's 4-Y-0 Conch Deville/Miss Que gelding Ninegrandsons was an impressive winner of the Elite Horse Transport Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2190 metres at Shepparton. Stepping safely from barrier two, Ninegrandsons was given time to balance, settling mid-field in the moving line, before being set alight racing for the bell to cross the pacemaker Im Victor Trumper which had flown away from the 10 metre mark. Showing no signs of stopping, Ninegrandsons coasted to the wire in a rate of 2-06.6 to score easily over Im Victor Trumper and Silver Memory which followed the pair from the bell.
Given time to balance ■ Gordon trainer/driver Tim McGuigan was victorious with 4-Y-0 Life Sign/Imalone Star mare Signs Of Texas in the Bendigo Mitsubishi Pace (2nd division) for C1 class over 2150 metres at Lord's Raceway Bendigo on Wednesday.
This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Wednesday - Maryborough/Terang, Thursday - Melton/Ballarat, Friday - Warragul/Melton, Saturday - Bendigo, Sunday - Mooroopna@Shepparton, Tuesday - Kilmore.
Horses To Follow ■ Two Pot Screamer, Allrumour, Panorama Wealth, Jasmine Sheffield, Albelcin, Secret Desire, Domestic Bliss, Kabbalah Karen.
YOUNG DRIVERS COMPETE ■ Charlton based Ellen Tormey - Victoria's representative in the Australasian Young Drivers Championship which commenced in Dunedin on Thursday, left Australia on a high note Wednesday, after piloting three winners at the Mildura harness meeting held the night before. First to salute the judge was 4-Y-0 entire True Courage in the Casual Collections Langtree Mall Pace for C1 class over 1790 metres. Trained at Armstrong (Ararat District) by Brooke Hansen, True Courage a son of Courage Under Fire and Lady In Paris, led throughout from the pole to score in a rate of 2-00.5 in defeating Egyptian Art and Libby Rice Jones. Next to come along was the Robert Dacey (Nyah) trained 4-Y-0 Peace Of Art/Kelise Lou gelding Sunrose Don in the Coward Cakes Egg & Bacon Pies Pace for C2 & C3 class over 2190 metres. Drifting back in the field from gate four with the South Australian pacemaker and polemarker Dungeon Queen being kept honest by Our Flying Jazz from the bell, Sunrose Don came from near last in the final circuit to mow his rivals down on straightening in a rate of 2-01.7 over Senor Banderas and a game Our Flyin Jazz who battled on extremely well.
No relenting ■ The third leg of the trio was locally trained filly Wotsthefuss in the Mildura Complete Landscaping 3Y-0 Pace, also over the 2190 metre journey. One of two runners trained by Shayne Cramp, Wotsthefusswas sent forward from the extreme draw to park outside the leader Sladkeeson which flew away from outside the front row. Not relenting from the bell, Wotsthefuss Badlands Hanover/Big Brown Eyes), kept on giving and giving on straightening to outstay her rivals in accounting for Sladkeeson and Bettor Art in a rate of 2-03.
Top drive ■ Australia's leading reinsman Daryl Douglas, produced the "drive of the year" to capture the $100,000 Provideo Vicbred Super Series 3-Y0 Colts & Geldings Final over 2240 metres at Tabcorp Park Melton on
Baker’s Delight
Harness Racing
Four back at Kilmore
Melbourne
Observer
lenbaker@ bigpond.net.au
with Len Baker
Friday aboard Grinfromeartoear/Counterfeit Girl colt Devilish Smile. Trained at Smythes Creek (Ballarat) by Peter Tonkin, Devilish Smile was eased from gate three on the second line to settle at the tail of the field, with the well supported Suave Stuey Lombo leading from gate four after working to cross the polemarker Markleigh Ucha. Still last at the bell, Devilish Smile's chances appeared forlorn in the final circuit, with Douglas in desperation switching down to the inside to be four back on the markers approaching the home turn. Weaving a passage inbetween runners on straightening, Devilish Smile charged home at 100 miles an hour to claim victory in the shadows of the post in a mile rate of 1-58.2 (last half mile 58.2 - quarter 29) over Markleigh Ucha along the sprint lane, with Suave Stuey Lombo third just in advance of Royal Verdict which must have been six wide on the final bend. Raced by Russell and Pam Hockham who have spent a fortune on horses over the past decade, Devilish Smile has recorded 16 wins and 12 placings from 36 race appearances, earning stakes of $233,516.
Three wide ■ Former Kiwi 4-Y-0 Tinted Cloud/Raid The Pantry gelding Nonetheless landed a massive plunge to take out the Schweppes Pace for C1 class over 1690 metres at the Shepparton harness fixture held on Monday May 30. Quoted at $6.30 on Supertab with around 60 seconds to the start, Nonetheless was sensationally supported into $2.50 when the mobile gate pulled away.
Trained at Avenel by David Aiken and driven by Scott Dyer, Nonetheless raced by major stable client Brendan James under the banner of BFJ Bloodstock Trust along with wife Anne, from gate two on the second row settled three back in the moving line, with the Albury visitor Scotty McDuff leading from gate two. Easing three wide in the last lap to follow Our Ellas Fella which had been three wide from the outset, Nonetheless when taken to the centre of the track on turning, ran home best to blowse a gallant Our Ellas Fella by 2.8 metres in 1-56.4, with Regalramapleasure third after following the winner home.
Shared win ■ The unofficial ‘Mayor’ of Lancefield Terry Wait, shared in a winner at Kilmore on Wednesday, when Art Major/Play Ball filly Paintball greeted the judge in the Kilmore Trackside Bistro & Function Centre 2-Y-0 Pace over 2180 metres. Trained at Monegeetta by Lisa and David Miles who were overseas to witness the famous Elitlopp in Sweden, Paintball from the pole was crossed by Calleija next to her, with stand-in reinsman Greg Sugars immediately coming away from the markers to stride clear entering the back straight on the first occasion. Always travelling kindly, Paintball making her second appearance at the races following an eye catching second at Ballarat on May 21, kicked clear on turning to score by a half neck from the fast finishing Secret Desire (three back the markers) in a pedestrian rate of 2-07.2, with Zamaye (one/one - three wide home turn) third. - Len Baker
■ Bunbartha trainer/driver John Newberry scored another victory with Pacific Rocket/Madam Jasper gelding Niquero at huge odds in the Heathcote Bin Hire 3-Y-0 Pace over 2180 metres at Kilmore. A winner at Supertab odds of $28.30 back in December at Cobram, Niquero on this occasion was unwanted in the market paying $84.20. Settling four back the markers from the extreme draw, Niquero was driven brilliantly to somehow trail Mooney (one/three) three wide at the bell. Despite being four wide on the final bend and even wider on straightening as the field spread right across the track, Niquero prevailed in a tight finish over Pelling which followed him home and Relaxed (one/one - three wide home turn) in a rate of 2-00.9.
Winners at Bendigo ■ Shelbourne (Bendigo) co-trainers Lynette and Larry Eastman were winners at Lord's Raceway Bendigo on Wednesday, when 4-Y-0 Pacific Fella/ Wide Glide gelding Georgefromguam scored in the Bendigo Community Telco Pace for C0 class over 1650 metres. Bred and raced by Horsham's Rosalie Dougherty, Georgefromguam making his second appearance at the races and driven by Larry, was given a charmed passage from the pole trailing the odds-on favourite Weekend Rustler drawn next to him. Easing away from the inside approaching the home turn, the pair had a ding-dong duel all the way up the running, with Georgefromguam doing best in a brilliant 1-56 rate, with Run Forrest (three back the markers a distant 37 metres back in third place. It was broodmare Wide Glide, a daughter of Waverly Niatross and Bonnie Apollo (Magnus Apollo) 9th individual winner, having left Jonathon (Vestalba Rainbow) 32 wins, Dee Ex (Muckalee Strike) 24, Seizinger (Even Odds) 9, Lenny (The Unicorn) 18, Dougal (Vestalba Rainbow) 26, Schier Drive (Vestalba Rainbow) 1, Schier (Camtastic) 2 and Waterslide (Pacific Fella) 6.
Nothing short of sensational ■ Undera trainer Glenn Freeman has a potential top liner in Kiwi bred 5-Y-0 Courage Under Fire/ Ashes Of Love gelding Radio Ga Ga which made it two from two on Australian soil in winning the Bendigo Animal Hospital Pace for R2 & R3 class at Bendigo over 2150 metres. Nothing short of sensational when scoring at TP Melton on May 1 after giving away a huge start, Radio Ga Ga on this occasion was restrained from outside the front row by Daryl Douglas to settle mid-field in the moving line. Making a lightning burst to park outside the leader Diceneasy with a circuit to travel, Radio Ga Ga strode effortlessly to the front on the home turn and safely held a margin to the wire in defeating Triple Draw and Ballandella Baby in a rate of 1-59.3.
Passing of Merv Dillon ■ I was saddened to hear of the passing of former Bendigo trainer Merv Dillon on Monday May 30 following a long illness. Merv was a great supporter of harness racing over the years and had a very smart performer by the name of Glengower a number of decades back when based in Wycheproof. He also enjoyed lots of success with multiple cup winner Flip A Dollar and the bonny mare Ally Luvzit which was raced by a huge syndicate who followed her all over the state whenever she raced. Merv was a genius with the youngsters, winning several juvenile events season after season and will be sadly missed by the Bendigo fraternity. Sincere condolences are extended to partner Lyn Turnbull and son Tony.
Harness racing enthusiasts: see advt by Graham and Jenny Moon opposite (Page 57)
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Page 57
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Harness Racing
130,000
130,000 litre water tank services house and a one bedroom flat (separate from house)
Page 58 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011 - Page 59
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer
Page 60 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 8, 2011
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au