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www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Radio: 3MBS-FM fiddles with program grid ...... Page 108 Theatre: Class clowns show sense of humour ...... Page 109 The Spoiler: Advance plotlines for TV soapies .......... Page 109 Jim and Aaron: Top 10, best movies and DVDs ............ Page 110 Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre shows, auditions ........... Page 111 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD

IAN MOSS AT ECHUCA Quartets At Sunset

● Asher Fisch ■ It's Melbourne Festival time, and in the past classical music lovers have sometimes felt ignored in favour of everything that is new and ground breaking.

The good news is that in this year's festival, thanks to cocurators Richard Tognetti and Michael Stevens, classical is back!

One of the most popular features of past festivals, the sunset chamber music concerts, has returned in the Quartets At Sunset series.

Held at Collins St Baptist Church, these short concerts begin at 6pm, making them ideal for city workers to stay on and enjoy a great concert.

This year's quartets are an exciting mix of international and local musicians, with America's Attacca Quartet kicking off the series on October 14 and 15.

Australia's Flinders Quartet takes the stage on Friday, October 18, followed by the Shanghai Quartet from China and America on Monday-Wednesday, October 2123.

Australia's Ironwood quartet performs on Thursday, October 24, and the final sunset concert is Friday, October 25 featuring the Australian String Quartet.

This year's festival is paying tribute to composer Franz Joseph Haydn. There is a free series of lunchtime concerts featuring Haydn performed by musicians at the Australian National Academy of Music at the Foxtel Festival Hub, in St Kilda Rd opposite Hamer Hall, at 12 Noon from Monday-Saturday, October 21-26.

There are some big names visiting this year - world famous French sisters Katia and Marielle Labèque, pianists who will play a program of Debussy, Ravel and Bernstein on Saturday, October 19, at Melbourne Recital Centre.

Brahms and Wagner are the other two big names being celebrated this year in the festival, and on Friday, October 18 renowned Israeli conductor Asher Fisch takes to the piano and accompanies German mezzo-soprano Stefanie Irányi for an 'illustrated lecture', featuring Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder'.

Asher Fisch pops up the next night, Saturday October 19, at Hamer Hall as conductor of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra with Australian soprano Lisa Gasteen. The combined forces will work their way through many of Wagner's most popular compositions.

Sunday, October 20 and Monday, October 21, see Richard Tognetti don his conducting and lead violin hat with the Australian Chamber Orchestra, with guest cellist Stephen Isserlis, to play Brahms' Symphony No 4 and Dvorak's Cello Concerto at Hamer Hall.

And for those who fancy a huge event that combines music and film, try The Crowd, a one night only event at the Palais Theatre on Friday (Oct. 11), where the Australian Chamber Orchestra, ANAM Orchestra and vocal ensemble The Consort of Melbourne, join forces to explore the question of what we feel when we are part of a crowd, through the music of Debussy, Chopin, Shostakovich, Dean and more, with time-lapse imagery. www.melbournefestival.com - Julie Houghton

By CHERYL THREADGOLD

● Ian Moss ■ Bookings are now open for the Third Annual Riverboats Music Festival, being held on the banks of the mighty Murray river at Echuca-Moama from February 14-16, 2014.

The Riverboats 2014 line-up includes The Cat Empire, Tim Finn, Ian Moss, Paul Dempsey, Don Walker, The Basics, Dan Kelly's Dream Band, Wagons, Thelma Plum, Tinpan Orange, Mojo Juju, Sweet Jean and Liz Stringer.

In a stunning natural location with historic paddle-steamers meandering past all weekend, a mix of Australian music icons and red-hot up-and-comers will take to the amphitheatre stage from lunchtime until late each day, against the unique backdrop of Echuca-Moama's towering river red gums, grassy slopes and historic riverside setting.

Festival Producer David Frazer says: "We are so excited to once again be presenting some of the most celebrated names in Australian music on the banks of our most famous river."

Riverboats takes place at the picturesque Aquatic Reserve in the heart of Echuca-Moama. Families and friends can relax on picnic rugs in the shade whilst enjoying a delicious range of regional food and wine, and the festival's central location means attendees can easily explore the town, historic wharf precinct and natural surrounds, all within walking distance.

A hit of the festival last year, the Riverboats Deluxe Ticket is back in 2014, offering festival goers a unique opportunity to experience a two-hour river cruise aboard one of the grand old dames of the Murray, the paddle-steamer Pevensey.

Accompanied by fine local catering and live music by Riverboats artist Mojo Juju, the cruise takes place on Saturday, February 15 from 12 Noon to 2pm, returning just in time for the start of the festival's Saturday line-up.

Once again, the Beechworth Bakery will be the location for the Official Festival Breakfast, on Sunday, February 16 from 9am - 12 Noon, on the top floor of the bakery, featuring live music, views over the Campaspe River and some of the finest food in the region.

With the announcement of an exceptional 2014 line-up and a three-day festival ticket of just $110, the Riverboats Music Festival is one of the best ways to while away a weekend with friends and family this summer.

For tickets and further information, visit www.riverboatsmusic.com.au

‘The Producers’

● Matt Hadgraft ■ Matthew Hadgraft (pictured) is currently rehearsing for the role of accountant Leo Bloom in MLOC’s production of The Producers, having moved to Melbourne from Brisbane in March last year to pursue more performance opportunities and “be in the thick of it”.

Matt sang with St John’s Cathedral Choir on a choral scholarship, before studying piano, musicology and theory at the Queensland Conservatorium, and Primary Education at ACU. He has taught in primary schools, was a piano teacher for 10 years, and worked as a cocktail pianist at the Brisbane Club.

He was offered the role of Benny in Dancing Queen: Australia’s Ultimate ABBA Show, which he played for seven years, touring much of the east coast.

Between 2006 and 2012, Matt worked in radio on the Gold Coast at Southern Cross Austereo, and played lead roles in Gold Coast community theatre shows including Curtains, Boy from Oz, The 39 Steps, Twice In A Lifetime, Seussical The Musical and the lead in Zen Zen Zo’s professional Cabaret show.

Since arriving in Melbourne, Matt has accompanied shows in the 2012 Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Melbourne Fringe Festival, and wrote, directed and composed Shoulda Coulda Woulda, a succinct musical comedy, for the 2013 Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Versatile Matt also performed in the ensemble of Nova’s 42nd Street in 2012, ARC’s 2013 production of Singin’ In The Rain, and in September was the Musical Director and acerbic receptionist Methel Erman in SHooSH! Productions’ Velvet Addiction.

The Producers can be seen from November 8-16 at the Phoenix Theatre, Elwood, directed by Jane Court, with musical direction by Ian Nisbet and choreography by Taylor Hollands.

Bookings: www.mloc.org.au or 9551 7514.

- Cheryl Threadgold

Page 108 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Lifetime Achievement Awards

● Patti and Bert Newton performing on Monday night

Observer Showbiz ■ The Croozin Country program appears to have come to a close of Yarra Valley FM 99.1. The show went to air 9pm-Midnight Friday, and was hosted by ‘Izzy’.

■ Charlie Pickering is to host this year’s 25th Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs) to be held in Brisbane at the Royal International Convention Centre on Saturday.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

■ I thought I had died and gone to heaven when I attended the 2013 Equity Lifetime Achievement Awards at Her Majesty's Theatre on Monday night (Oct. 7).

I went along thinking there would be a little platform with a microphone upstairs to present Jill Perryman and Kevan Johnston with their Lifetime Awards - but no, this was an amazing show with the cream of the Australian stage talent performing onstage in honour of Jill and Kevan.

The evening was hosted by Equity President Simon Burke. Bert and Patti Newton performed the Nat King Cole hit song Unforgettable and had the whole theatre in stiches with their hilarious comedy patter.

Patti had fallen and damaged her ankle and was in a Moon Boot - so the running gag was "the team of Moonface and Moonboot".

They both spoke dearly of Jill and Kevan. Patti had worked with

Kevan in the original production of Bye Bye Birdie at Her Majesty's Theatre.

Other performers included Lucy Durack and Verity Hunt-Ballard.

There were surprise guests throughout the event, Todd McKenney revealed his association with Jill and Kevan from an early age and had us engrossed with his stories.

Tony Sheldon bounced out onstage and then introduced Nancye Hayes before they sang the comedy duet I'll Never Be Jealous Again from The Pajama Game.

Rohan Browne danced with The Tap Pack in a sensational tap routine.

It was the most entertaining show you could imagine.

Carol Cook, the original star of Hello Dolly in Australia, spoke of Jill in a pre recorded television interview from Hollywood - Carol spoke from the heart.

When Jill and Kevan went onstage to receive their award the audience

were on their feet for a standing ovation.

Jill and Kevan first met each other in 1953 during the run of Call Me Madam and have been married for more than 50 years.

The awards were followed by a party in the theatre foyer.

The audience included Mary Murphy, Reg Gorman, Judith Roberts, Kevin Summers, JohnMichael Howson, Tommy Dysart, Joan Brockenshire, Terry Donovan and many others.

I was pleased to have a long chat to Brian Wenzel (A Country Practice) who said he knew me and I wrote for the Melbourne Observer. It was a fabulous night all made possible by the generous support of Foxtel. Todd McKenney closed the show singing I Honestly Love You to Jill and Kevan.

Congratulations to all involved a fitting salute to two legends of the Australian stage.

- Kevin Trask

Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria

JAZZ PROGRAMS GO MISSING 3MBS-FM FIDDLES WITH ONLINE SCHEDULING GRID

Country Crossroads

to be back on air as early as next week.

Philip was sidelined when he broke a hip whilst in Hong Kong. He has been undergoing rehabilitation in a Melbourne centre, since flying back last week.

John Blackman has been on air with Bruce Mansfield during the ‘break’.

info@country crossroads.com.au Big Breakfast Show. Southern FM 88.3.

Tues. 6am-9am.

Rob Foenander

Jamgrass Music Festival ■ Bluegrass fans will be able to enjoy a host of different artists at the annual Jamgrass Festival from Friday (Oct. 11) Sunday (Oct. 13).

The Thornbury Theatre Ballroom is the venue that will see Victorian acts The Davidson Bros, Quarry Mountain Dead Rats, Bill Jackson Band amongst other interstate and international acts take to the stage over the three day event.

More info: 0405 416 577 or www.jamgrass.com.au

Sarah Storer: Lovegrass ■ The new Lovegrass album from Sarah Storer is one that will surely be on the finalist list at the 2014 Golden Guitar Awards.

Sarah's unique vocal style and engaging melodies are yet again what hooks you in on this 12-track recording and is the sixth album release from the multi-award winner.

Available through ABC Music.

Wolfe Brothers performing ■ There's lots of hype about the Wolfe Brothers who will be performing at the Hallam Hotel on Thursday, Oct. 17.

The Tamanian boys are also now the backing band for country music star Lee Kernaghan and have been successfully touring the country selling out concerts.

Tickets for the show from Ticketmaster or the Hallam Hotel.

Tony Keith at Rod Laver ■ American country music star Toby Keith has announced his first tour to Australia and will play at Rod Laver Arena on March 19.

The Hammer Down Under series of concerts will also include Brisbane and .

Forbes magazine reported that Keith is one of the wealthiest celebrities in the USA with an estimated fortune of $500 million.

- Rob Foenander

● Alison Lee-Tet ■ Online listeners to the Wednesday and Friday night jazz programs on the fine music 3MBS-FM website were in for a shock last week.

Instead of hearing Jazz Rivers with Alison Lee-Tet through the live streaming service, they heard Concerto.

The usual 10pm Friday night Colours of Jazz had also been replaced by Australian Sounds, a show of esoteric music, in a program presented by a female host Desley Dixon who whispers. The Jazz show was moved to 8pm. Who knew? \ This is programming lunacy.

Volunteers do so much to win listener loyalty.

A station spokesman says the jazz programs will be re-introduced online when techology changes are made.

“The 3MBS website will have the option for internet users to choose which stream to listen: our 103.5FM or digital programs, giving our listeners the ultimate choice, and allowing 3MBS to diversify its programming.”

It would have made much more sense to make the technology improvements, THEN make the programming changes.

Philip Brady on the mend ■ 3AW Nightline and Remember When co-host Philip Brady has said that he hopes

● Philip Brady

Online fans tune in to GDR ■ Melbourne station, Golden Days Radio 95.7 FM, continues to build its listenership online.

Station Manager Alex Hehr says more than 7000 listeners tune in. Most hits come from Australia, UK, USA, China, Canada, Malta, France, New Zealand, Japan and Russian Federation.

Petition for Derryn Hinch

Life member

■ A small band of Derryn Hinch fans is assembling a petition to present to Supreme Court Judge Kaye this Friday (Oct. 11) when penalty submissions are heard in relation to Hinch being found guilty of breaching a suppression order.

It had 710 ‘likes’ as at Friday night.

● Derryn Hinch

● Peter ‘Grubby’ Stubbs with ‘Dee Dee’ Dunleavy ■ 3AW Weekend Break cohost Peter ‘Grubby’ Stubbs (12 Noon-6pm, Sat., Sun.) has been made a Life Member of the Sydney Swans Football Club.

Diana visits GDR

No comment from station ■ Darren Adams and David Oaten from Yarra Valley FM both requested a right of reply in the Observer to critical comments from presenters.

We offered space for these replies. For the second consecutive week, nothing had been received by press time.

● Entertainer Diana Trask made a visit to the Glen Huntly studios of Golden Days Radio to be interviewed

by Joan Krutli.

Photo: Kevin Trask

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - Page 109

Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler CLASS CLOWNS Media Flashes

ShowBiz!

For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven ■ Monday, October 14. Joshua and Amber reconcile after he tells her he loves her; Georgia makes a discovery implicating Kyle and Kate; Karl feels that he is past his prime.

■ Tuesday, October 15. Toadie and Imogen are in a predicament; Kyle and Kate are confused by Gem's story; Bailey is suspicious of Callum's assignment results.

■ Wednesday, October 16. Bailey can't believe Callum got an A in biology; Matt is determined to find out what Paul is up to; Susan has doubts about hiring Gem. ■ Thursday, October 17. Rhiannon withdraws her statement about Paul's corruption in return for a job; Imogen is sacked from work experience when her unethical actions compromise Toadie; Chris receives a letter from Hudson but can't bring himself to read it.

■ Friday, October 18. Chris's actions come back to bite him; Sheila struggles to influence Chris and Rhiannon; Lou leaves to spend time with Lolly; Sonya realises Josie has a worrying new obsession.

Home and Away ■ Plotlines unavailable at press time.

■ Thursday, October 17. Double episode.

Star Bursts

★

Environmental scientist and communications consultant Rob Gell delivered the 2013 Festival of Ideas keynote address The State of the Environment last week at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre. Gell was a TV weatherman on Channels 9 and 10.

The Music Victoria Genre Awards will be held tomorrow (Thurs.) at Media House, Docklands. There will be special guest performances from Adalita and Chris Russell’s Chicken Walk The Veneto Club, Bulleen, will feature guest speaker Mick Malthouse at a night where proceeds will go to CanTeen.

Tickets are $100. The function on Friday, October 18, includes a three-course meal and drinks. Phone: 9850 7111.

The ABC has a new rural website: abc.net.au/tural ABC Rural Editor, Leigh Radford, expects the website to attract a diverse range of audiences interested in food, fibre and mineral production; the politics and innovation of land use; and topical debates about the future of food and climate.

Kevin Bloody Wilson is back. The downto-earth Aussie larrikin has spent the last 30 years building up a cult following of loyal fans with songs like I Knew The Bride (When She Was Still A Mole), and Living Next Door To Alan. Kevin will be playing at Palms at Crown on November 22-23.

Enzo Condello's new play, The Tragedy of Lucrece, loosely based on Shakespeare’s epic poem The Rape of Lucrece, made its debut at the 2013 Melbourne Fringe Festival. It closed at the weekend.

A concert to launch the soundtrack CD of the forthcoming documentary, The Songs They Sang will be held at South Melbourne Town Hall on Sunday, October 20.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

■ The 2014 Melbourne International Comedy Class Clowns Competition registrations have opened this week.

Across the country in 13 different locations, teens in years 9-12, or who are 1418 years old in 2014, can sign up and workshop five minutes of their own original gags with professional comedians and then compete on stage at their local heats.

This is all in an effort to learn the comedy trade and try for the title of ‘Australia’s Funniest Teen’ at the Class Clowns National Grand Final in April 2014.

This event is ideal for kids who love to present funny facts, always have the classroom in stitches, or even the quiet types who sit at the back concocting those genius one-liners.

Class Clowns gives kids a chance to figure out how to take their sense of humour from the schoolyard, to the stage.

Entrants can register as a solo act or in a group of up to three members.

The next step is to come up with an original five minutes of stand-up, sketch, musical parody (or something wild in between), participate in one of the workshops (led by a professional practising comedian) and then present their act at a real, life local public performance.

Camp Rock: The Musical

● Andrew Chen, Melbourne International Comedy Festival Class Clowns National Grand Final 2012.

Photo: Stano Murin Comedy The overall winner of tional the 2014 competition will Festival’s education protake home $1500 for them- gram.

Registration is free. Enselves and a $1000 workshop package for their trants can sign up online and learn details of locaschool.

Class Clowns is the tions at www.classclowns. flagship event of the com.au - Cheryl Threadgold Melbourne Interna-

Neil Oliver to stage show in Melbourne ■ Neil Oliver, historian, archaeologist and presenter of acclaimed BBC TV series such as Coast, Vikings and A History of Ancient Britain, is coming to the Australian stage for a live show.

Neil Oliver – History In The Making will coincide with the broadcast of Oliver’s new series Coast Australia on Foxtel in December.

The Melbourne show will be at The Plenary, Exhibition and Convention Centre on Wednesday, November 26, says publicist Ian Phipps.

Helen Pendlebury, BBC spokeswoman, said, “Neil Oliver has a fascinating story to tell about the discoveries and insights he gained for his TV shows in both the UK and Australia.”

PLATFORM FESTIVAL

■ The Platform@LaMama Festival is a mix of theatre, dance, performance art and film , and is all brand new work by artists with a brand new story to tell.

Over three weeks, Platform Youth Theatre is presenting this assortment of works in partnership with La Mama and a host of young, independent theatre makers and key community groups.

This is the third year Platform Youth Theatre has worked with La Mama’s support to present this mini-festival of youth programming.

Heart beats, bus rides, cutting edges, downward spirals, desperate leaps, dreams of ballerinas, dancing ghosts, maybe-robots and magic tricks.

With sessions at 6.30pm and 8.30pm, audiences can see a collection of works.

What is presented one night will not be

the same as the next, so in true festival style – pick your program.

See www.pyt.org.au for a full rundown of the nightly program. Every night is different.

Established in 1998, Platform works with young and emerging artists to make theatre and performances which tell their important stories, and to facilitate their professional practice pathways in partnership with industry recognised individuals and organisations.

Where: La Mama Courthouse Theatre Dates: October 16-November 3 Times: 6.30 and 8.30pm Tickets available at: www.lamama. com.au Full program of shows and schedule available at: www.pyt.org.au

● Wil King and Maggie McKenna play leads Mitchie Torres and Shane Gray in Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical, opening on October 17. Photo: Jessica Charnley ■ Stage Masters presents the Melbourne premiere of Disney’s hugely popular Camp Rock: The Musical from October 17-27 at the Randall Theatre, St Martins Youth Arts Centre, 44 St Martins Lane, South Yarra.

Camp Rock is the ultimate place for aspiring musicians. Mitchie and her friends can’t wait to spend their summer there – jamming out, making new friends and having the time of their lives.

But the new flashy camp across the lake, Camp Star, has drummed up some serious competition and now threatens Camp Rock’s very existence.

To keep the doors open, Mitchie needs to step up, rally her fellow camp rockers, and get them into top shape for the ultimate showdown.

Stage Masters producers David Venn and Jessica Benney direct this young tour-de-force, 60 person cast, in this family musical for all ages..

Season: October 17 – 27 (except Monday and Tuesday) Times: Wednesday-Saturday 7:30pm; Matinees: Saturday, October 19 at 2pm, Sunday, October 20 at 1pm and 5pm, Saturday, October 26 at 1pm & 4.30pm and Sunday, October 27 at 4pm Venue: Randall Theatre, St Martins Youth Arts Centre, 44 St. Martins Lane, South Yarra Bookings: camprock.com.au, or Stage Masters 9016 8486, Ticket: Adult A – Res: $35, Child/Concession A – Res: $29, Single B – Res: $28, Family Pass: $118, Premium seat: $45.

- Cheryl Threadgold

Open Channel pitching

■ Open Channel's recently appointed Executive Director Marc Gracie says: "A good pitch is the tip of an iceberg - below the surface sits all the work, passion and vision of your project."

"Getting the pitch right is about finding the essence below and bringing it to the surface in a way which will enable the idea to shine to attract the partners it needs to come to fruition - financier, producer, director and cast."

This year's Short and Sharp Pitching Competition winner will receive $1000 in prize money and a $1000 Open Channel training and equipment hire voucher.

The winner will also have an opportunity for their project to be pitched by the winning producer of Short and Sharp Pro at the SPAA / Holding Redlich Pitching Competition in November this year.

Entry fee: Free for Open Channel members / $30 for non-members Further information http://www.openchannel.org.au/ support_shortsharp.html Contact: Ally Curtis, 8327 2016 - Cheryl Threadgold

Page 110 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Movies, DVDs With Jim Sherlock and Aaron Rourke

What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs

AARON ROURKE’S MOVIE NEWS Passion

● THE JUNGLE BOOK: There's plenty to sing and dance about with Walt Disney's 1967 magical masterpiece The Jungle Book on DVD and stunning Blu-ray for the very first time, so join Baloo and King Louie for the time of your life with one of cinemas great classics of all time.

FILM: THE JUNGLE BOOK: Genre: Animated/Family/Adventure/Music.

Cast: Phil Harris, Sebastian Cabot, George Sanders, Louis Prima.

Year: 1967.

Rating: G. Running Time: 78 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***** Verdict: Walt Disney's priceless magical animated masterpiece inspired by the classic novel by Rudyard Kipling of a young you who has been raised in the jungle and now Bagheera the Panther and Baloo the Bear have a difficult time trying to convince a boy to leave the jungle for human civilization. This is one of the great classics of all time and an inspiration to millions around the world!

From the opening frame to the last The Jungle Book bursts with vibrant animation, infectiously colourful characters, most notably the magnificent Louis Prima King Louie, Phil Harris as Baloo, Sebastian Cabot as Bagheera and George Sanders as Shere Khan the Tiger, unforgettable music and songs by Oscar winning legends Richard and Robert Sherman, and side-splitting humour.

This was the last film that the legendary Walt Disney personally worked on before his untimely death, and the result experience once seen will never be forgotten! It's not just a classic, but a masterpiece!

FILM: THE WIZARD OF OZ - 75th Anniversary Edition: Genre: Family/Adventure/Musical.

Cast: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Jack Haley, Bert Lahr, Margaret Hamilton.

Year: 1939.

Rating: G. Running Time: 98 Minutes.

Format: DVD, BLU-RAY 3D and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***** Verdict: If ever a movie was made for 3D, THIS IS IT! The results are simply breathtaking! But 3D or not 3D, this all-time classic story from L. Frank Baum classic novel of young Dorothy and her dog Toto and how they are swept away to the magical land of Oz is a masterpiece of Hollywood's Golden Era and Golden year of 1939. For this 75th Anniversary edition the picture and sound have been painstakingly remastered frame-by-frame from the original three strip Technicolor camera negatives producing a breathtakingly vibrant experience far superior to originally release in cinemas 75 years ago. As brisk, fresh and sparkly as the pair of Dorothy's red ruby slippers, this is a jewel in the crown of Hollywood royalty, a bright and shining beacon of a time and an era that can now be experienced like you are actually there, an adventure after which you've seen this time will never be the same again! So ignore all previous releases, this is the one to own!

FILM: FLOWERS OF WAR: Genre: War/Drama..

Cast: Christian Bale, Ni Ni, Xinyi Zhang.

Year: 2012.

Rating: MA15+.

Running Time: 146 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***½ Verdict: The strong and powerful story of a Westerner who finds refuge with a group of women in a church during Japan's rape of Nanking in 1937 who poses as a priest in an attempt to lead the women to safety. Christian Bale gives a standout performance as the troubled westerner. With top notch production design throughout, the battle sequences are staged with gruelling reality and the depiction and victimization of civilians gruelling. Capped off by a haunting music score, this is one experience hard to shake once it's over, a gripping and compelling experience set during the brutality of a place and time when ordinary people did extraordinary things. Like so many others we will never know the names of.

FILM: FAST AND FURIOUS 6: Genre: Action/Crime/Thriller.

Cast: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez.

Year: 2013.

Rating: PG. Running Time: 130 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLUE-RAY. Stars: **½ Verdict: Since the boys Rio heist cost a crime king's empire of over 100 million dollars in Fast & Furious 5 our action heroes have scattered the globe.

Now two years on, and the crew is reassembled to take down a mastermind who commands a global mercenary organization. So it's rev up the cars, trucks and anything else with an engine, including a tank, or goes bang, and let the games begin. This is inferior to its predecessor, a popcorn pot-boiler with silly plot and cardboard performances, but there's plenty adrenaline fuelled energy, and a surprise or two, that moves it briskly along the way. And there's an over the top plane sequence that has to be seen to be believed. This won't win any acting honours, but it delivers more than enough action and thrills not to disappoint fans of the genre and series.

■ (MA). 101 minutes. Available now on DVD. Brian De Palma, who directed such classic suspense chillers as Sisters (1973), The Fury (1978), Dressed To Kill (1980), Body Double (1984), Raising Cain (1992), and Femme Fatale (2002), returns to the thriller genre with Passion, and while it does not reach the heights of his best-known efforts, it still makes for a devilish good time.

Noomi Rapace stars as Isabelle, a talented employee at a successful ad agency in Paris, who happily works for her ambitious boss Christine (Rachel McAdams), but is oblivious to her superior's lust for power within the company.

A series of events will see the two become bitter rivals, and indulge in a very dangerous battle of wits where only one will be left standing.

A remake of the 2010 French film Love Crime (****), directed by Alain Corneau and starring Kristin Scott Thomas, De Palma's version starts almost scene-for-scene exact, carbon copy moments that are missing the small details that connect them in a substantial manner, making the first act feel awkward and jarring.

However, when a certain scene occurs (involving Isabelle and a white mask), you suddenly see what De Palma is doing, and everything begins to click, leading to a second half that sees this master film-maker deliver a number of visually arresting, tremendously entertaining set-pieces, including a finale that is a wonderful homage to one of his best films.

Cinematographer Jose Luis Alcaine brings De Palma's vision to the screen with beautiful precision, and regular composer Pino Donaggio compliments these stylish images with a suitably playful and moody score.

What does let the film down is the absence of two strong lead actors.

Rapace and McAdams just don't have the presence to truly bring these spiteful characters to life, and seems to be the main factor why the first section of the film doesn't quite gel, as these two don't grab the viewer as they should.

Despite its flaws, Passion is a film worth experiencing, crafted by a brilliant artist who has been thrilling us now for over 40 years.

RATING - ***

Leon: The Professional ■ (MA). 133 minutes. Available now on DVD and Blu-Ray. With director Luc Besson's new film The Family opening in cinemas on Thursday, let's look back at one of his crowning glories, the 1994 action/ thriller Leon : The Professional, which is just as exciting now as it was when first released.

Jean Reno excels as reclusive hitman Leon, who reluctantly takes in troubled teen Mathilde (Natalie Portman) after her family is slaughtered by corrupt cop Stansfield (Gary Oldman).

Wanting revenge, Mathilde is taught how to kill by Leon, and the two start to develop a special friendship.

Besson creates two fascinating characters in Leon and Mathilde, who play off each other perfectly, no matter how incredible the situation.

Reno is great as the quiet assassin, but Portman (in her film debut) proved to be a revelation as the headstrong Mathilde, and it is easy to see why she is now an Oscar-winning star.

Gary Oldman is suitably overthe-top as the maniacal Stansfield, genuinely making you wonder what his character is going to do next.

Danny Aiello offers strong support, and the film is beautiful to look at and listen to (thanks to cinematographer Thierry Arbogast and composer Eric Serra).

There are also a number of spectacular action set-pieces, especially towards the end.

RATING - ****½

Toyoko Yamasaki

● Toyoko Yamasaki November 3, 1924 September 29, 2013 Highly celebrated novelist Toyoko Yamasaki, known for socially relevant works such as The Grand Family, The White Tower, Wasteland, Son Of The Earth and Two Homelands, sadly passed away on Sunday September 29, aged 88.

Mr Yamasaki was able to portray a number of social problems, including medical malpractice, political corruption, and parent-child relationships, through the eyes of ordinary people, and amassed a huge following in her native country.

The White Tower became a feature film in 1966, The Burning Mountain River was turned into a successful TV series in 1984 (starring award-winning actor Toshiyuki Nishida), and The Sun That Never Sets was adapted for the big screen in 2009, starring Ken Watanabe, dealing with labour-management relations that lead to one of the worst airline disasters in the history of Japan.

This epic film (202 minutes) is definitely worth tracking down, and is a thoughtful, enthralling drama.

A remarkable author that will be sorely missed.

- Aaron Rourke DVDs and Blu-Rays kindly supplied

by Video Vision, 177-179 Carlisle Street, Balaclava. For information or bookings on these titles please call 9531 2544.

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. GROWN UPS 2.

2. TURBO. 3. THE SMURFS 2.

4. PLANES. 5. PERCY JACKSON: THE SEA OF MONSTERS. 6. RUNNER RUNNER. 7. BLUE JASMINE. 8. WHITE HOUSE DOWN. 9. ONE DIRECTION: THIS IS US. 10. NOW YOU SEE ME. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: OCTOBER 3: BECOMING TRAVIATA, GRAVITY, RUSH, THANKS FOR SHARING, THE ACT OF KILLING. OCTOBER 10: 2 GUNS, DIANA, THE FAMILY. THE DVD TOP RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. THE GREAT GATSBY [Drama/ Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan].

2. FAST & FURIOUS 6 [Action/Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Paul Walker].

3. IRON MAN 3 [Science Fiction/ Action/Robert Downey Jr, Ben Kingsley].

4. STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS [Sci-Fi/Action/Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto].

5. THE JUNGLE BOOK [1967/Animated/Family/Classic/Phil Harris, Sebastion Cabot].

6. FLOWERS OF WAR [Drama/War/ Christian Bale, Xinyi Zhang].

7. THE WIZARD OF OZ: 75th Anniversary Edition [1939/Family/Musical/Judy Garland].

8. THE RELUCTANT FUNDAMENTALIST [Thriller/Kate Hudson, Liev Schreiber].

9. THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES [Drama/Bradley Cooper, Ryan Gosling].

10. SNITCH [Action/Thriller/Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Barry Pepper].

Also: OBLIVION, OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN, TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE, TRANCE, WARM BODIES, CHASING MAVERICKS, G.I. JOE RETALIATION, KON-TIKI, THE CALL, THE ICEMAN. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: HYDE PARK ON HUDSON [Drama/ Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Colman].

SHARKNADO [Action/Drama/Cult// Comedy/Tara Reid, John Heard, Ian Ziering].

THE BLING RING [Drama/Emma Watson, Katie Chang - Dir: Sophia Coppola].

HANGOVER: Part 3 [Comedy/Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis].

DEADFALL [Thriller/Eric Bana, Olivia Wilde].

WELCOME TO THE PUNCH [Action/ James McAvoy, Mark Strong].

NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: FISTFULL OF BULLETS: Spaghetti Western Collection 16 Film Box Set. GREAT WESTERN HEROES Box Set [No Other Details Available].

20 FILM WESTERN PACK [Action/ Western/Lee Van Cleef and many more].

NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: BLACK CAVIAR: The Horse of a Lifetime.

Turn to Page 101

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - Page 111

Observer Showbiz

Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA SHOWS

■ Geelong Lyric Theatre: The Phantom of the Opera Until October 12 at The Playhouse Theatre, Geelong Performing Arts Centre, Little Malop Street, Geelong. Tickets: $40/$35. Bookings: GPAC 5225 1200.

■ Players Theatre Company: The Sound of Music Until October 12 at The Christine Strachan Theatre (Oakleigh Secondary College), Bakers Road, Oakleigh South. Director: Carl Whiteside; Musical Director: Rebecca Dupuy-Purcell; Choreographer: Victoria Rendall. Bookings: Trybooking or 0413 022608.

■ The 1812 Theatre: God of Carnage October 9 - November 2 at 3-5 Rose Street, Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: Justin Stephens.

Tickets: $25. Bookings: 9758 3964.

■ Wangaratta Players: Noises Off (by Michael Frayn) October 10 - 19 at the Stage Door Studio, Evans Street, Wangaratta.

Director: Steve Thorneycroft. Tickets: $20/$25. Bookings: 5721 3758.

■ Encore Theatre: The Merry Widows (written and directed by Cenarth Fox) October 11 - 26 at the Clayton Community Centre, Cooke Street, Clayton. Bookings: 1300 739 099.

■ Croydon Parish Players: Fiddler on the Roof October 11 19 at the Mahon Theatre, Aquinas College, Great Ryrie Street, Ringwood. Tickets: $30/$26. Bookings: www.croydonparishplayers. com ■ CLOC Musical Theatre: Guys and Dolls Until October 19 at the National Theatre, St Kilda. Co-Director: Chris White; CoDirector/Choreographer: Lynette White; Musical Director: Phillip Osborne. Tickets: $50/$45. Bookings: 1300 362 547 ■ Babirra Music Theatre: Carousel October 11 - 19 at the Whitehorse Centre, Whitehorse Road, Nunawading. Director: Chris Bradtke; Musical Direction: Ryan Jacobs: Choreography: Di Crough.

Bookings: 9262 6555 or www.babirra.org.au ■ Old Scotch Music and Drama: The Music Man October 11 - 19 at the Geoffrey McComas Theatre, Scotch College, Hawthorn.

Director: Richard Perdriau; Musical Director: Ben Hudson; Choreographer: Louisa Mitchell. Bookings: www.osmad.com.au ■ Fab Nobs Musical Theatre: It's a Bird … It's a Plane … It's Superman October 11, 12, 14, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at 8.00pm and October 20 at 5.00pm at the Fab Factory, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Karl McNamara; Musical Director: Danny Forward. Bookings: 0401 018 846.

■ Phoenix Theatre Company: Blood Brothers October 18 26 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Director: Craig Maloney; Musical Director: Kent Ross. Further details: www.phoenixtheatrecompany. org ■ Nova Music Theatre: Gypsy October 26 - November 10 at the Whitehorse Centre, 397 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading. Director; Neil Goodwin; Musical Director: Peter Caffyn. Tickets: $40/ $35/$32. Bookings: 1300 305 771, or 9262 6555 or trybooking.

■ Malvern Theatre Company: The Light in the Piazza (a musical by Craig Lucas, based on a novella by Elizabeth Spencer), November 1 - 16 at 29 Burke Road, East Malvern. Director: Alan Burrows. Tickets: $20, Groups 10+ $18 per person. Gala Night extra $5 per person. Bookings: 1300 131 552.

■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Are You Being Served? (a comedy by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft) November 6 - 23 at the Athenaeum Theatre, 39 - 41 Castella Street, Lilydale.

Director: Colin Morley. Bookings: 9735 1777, Mon, Tues, Fri between 10.00am and 2.00pm. www.lilydaleatc.com ■ Peridot Theatre: Easy Virtue (by Noel Coward) November 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 23 at 8.00pm, November 10, 16 at 2.15pm, November 17 at 4.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Road, Mt Waverley. Director: Horrie Leek.Tickets; $23/$20. Bookings: 1300 138 645 or 9898 9090 (for mobiles) or email peridotboxoffice@yahoo.com.au .

■ Mooroolbark Theatre Group: Agatha Crusty and the Village Hall Murders (by Derek Webb) November 7 - 16 at the Mooroolbark Community Centre, 125 Brice Avenue, Mooroolbark.

Tickets: $16/$14. Bookings: 9726 4282.

■ The Basin Theatre: Lend Me a Tenor November 8 - 30 at The Basin Theatre, Corner Doongalla and Simpson Roads, The Basin. Director: Joe Tuppenney. Tickets: $25 incl. complimentary parking, program and all refreshments, $20 Groups 10 or more.

Bookings: www.thebasintheatre.org.au or 1300 784 668 between 7.00pm and 9.00pm.

■ MLOC Productions: The Producers November 8 - 16 at the Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Road, Elwood. Director: Jane Court; Musical Director: Ian Nisbet; Choreographer: Taylor Hollands. Bookings: www.mloc.org.au ■ Williamstown Music Theatre Company: Urinetown November 8 - 23 at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, Corner Melbourne Road and Electra Street, Williamstown. Director: Anna Marinelli; Choreographer: Carla White; Musical Director: Malcolm Fawcett. Bookings and ticket details: visit www.wmtc.org.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: A Funny thing Happened on the Way to the Forum November 14 - 30 at the Williamstown Little Theatre, 2-4 Albert Street, Williamstown. Director: Barbara Hughes.

Tickets: $28/$25. Bookings: 9885 9678 or www.wlt.org.au

Melbourne

Observer THE WOOLGATHERER

Carousel

● Allie Sutherland (Julie Jordan) and Andrew Pennycuick (Billy Bigelow) in Carousel, opening on October 11 at the Whitehorse Centre.

Photo: Gavin D Andrew ■ Babirra Music Theatre presents Rodgers and Hammer-stein’s Carousel, from October 11-19 at the Whitehorse Centre, Whitehorse Rd, Nunawading.

Voted ‘Best Musical of the 20th Century’ by Time magazine in 1999, Babirra’s show is directed by Chris Bradtke, with musical direction by Ryan Jacobs and choreography by Di Crough.

Carousel was Rodgers and Hammerstein’s second collaboration after Oklahoma! and is said to be their personal favourite.

With a musical score that features the iconic You’ll Never Walk Alone, the haunting Carousel Waltz, the beautiful love duet If I loved You, plus June Is Bustin’ Out All Over and many more, Carousel has been one of musical theatre’s most popular shows since its Broadway premiere in April, 1945.

Bookings: 9262 6555 or www.babirra.org.au

AUDITIONS ■ The Mount Players: A Few Good Men (by Aaron Sorkin) October 12 from 9.00am - 5.00pm at the Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith Street, Macedon. Director: Neil Coulson. Enquiries: 0432 901 816.

■ Hartwell Players: Snow White and Friends (by Felicity Keeble) October 13 at 2.00pm and October 15 at 7.30pm. Audition venue t.b.a. Director: David Lawson-Smith.Audition bookings: 0405 633 456 or auditions@hartwellplayers.org.au

AT THE MOVIES: CINEMA THROUGH SONG

■ SLAMS presents its October variety show At The Movies: Cinema Through Song from October 18-26 at the Knox Community Arts Centre, Cnr Scoresby Rd and Mountain Hwy, Bayswater.

This promises to be a fun night out for both lovers of film as well as live performance, with songs from a wide range of film genres and a talented cast.

The show is directed by Will Sayers, with musical direction by Shane Hunt and choreography by Merryn Degnan.

Performances: October 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at 8pm.

Tickets: $25.

Bookings: www.slams.org.au or 9720 3205.

● Laura Wheelwright (Rose) and Lee Beckhurst (Cliff) in The Woolgatherer.

Photo: Chris Beck ■ Prepare for the unexpected with this play. When you see that it’s a two-hander to include a cross continent US truck driver you just don’t expect sensitive, poetic imagery.

The playwright, William Mastrosimone, has created a rhythmic movement to his dialogue between the truck driver, (passing what he’d hoped would be consensual time while his truck is fixed ) and the seeming unworldly dime store assistant.

Although it does seem strange that Rose could have invited Cliff to her barren, dilapidated apartment, or further that he doesn’t walk out when he sees the sparseness, there is a developing magnetism with every word uttered .

Rose’s quiet, intense refusal to listen to ‘bad’ language, accept Cliff’s constant joking or the harsh reality of the outside world is a perfect foil for the truckie’s never ending funny one liners and his live for the moment for the next can be rotten attitude.

Laura Wheelwright’s still, frail physique plays well with Lee Beckhurst’s solidity , with never a sense of physical threat, because of the nuance of language.

Several monologues deeply personalise the two characters .

The disturbing poignancy of Rose’s monologue describing the death of cranes is when we first alert ourselves to some strange, deep problem.

Cliff’s verbal canvas of the vicious travails of truck driving juxtaposed with the heavenly first sight of the Pacific Ocean is brilliant work, exposing unexpected sensitivity.

Mastrosimone’s words find the characters’ sensitivities for us, and these actors find the sensitivity of the words. This was captivating work, directed by Kerry Armstrong. We are embraced by mystery and intrigue and a growing desire for things to work out between the protagonists – yet an increasing, darkening shadow of doubt.

The end was too sudden though, we wanted more ... but that was part of the mesmeric unsettling quality of the whole thing.

The Woolgatherer was presented at La Mama Theatre as part of the 2013 Fringe Festival.

- Review by Maggie Morrison

SHOWS ■ Warrandyte '55 Plus' Variety Group: Around the World in Music and Song at the Warrandyte Senior Citizens Club Hall, 1-3 Taroona Avenue, Warrandyte. Concert: Saturday, November 16 at 1.00pm for 1.15pm start. $14.00 donation, including afternoon tea served after the performance. Cabaret: Friday, November 22 at 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. Tea/coffee provided.

BYO everything else. Bookings for both events:Allan 9877 1077.

AUDITIONS ■ Cardinia Performing Arts Company (CPAC): Whistle Down the Wind October 10, 11 from 7.00pm at the CPAC Rooms, rear of the Pakenham Sports Club Pokies Venue, Henry Street, Pakenham. Audition bookings essential: 0407 090 354.

■ Peridot Theatre Inc: The Hallelujah Girls (by Jesse Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jaime Wooten) October 13 at 4.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Road, Mount Waverley. Director: Annie Blood. Audition bookings: 0438 178 118 or bloodannie@gmail.com

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 112 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013 Melbourne

Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 21 Across

Across

Down

Down

1. Seaside walkway 6. Pouch 11. Brief sharp pain 15. Most cheerful 20. Naming word 21. Chicken breed, ... Island Red 22. Nominate 23. Behind bars 25. Active 26. Indian port, now Chennai 27. Moves closer to 29. Infuriates 32. Unaccompanied 34. Hair dye 36. The N of UN 39. Firmly cooked (of pasta), al ...

41. Of punishment 43. WWII German sub (1-4) 46. Church passage 48. Tin or lead 49. Spy, ... Hari 51. Fulfil (demand) 52. Upsetting 55. US university 56. Shoe cord 59. Follows orders 61. Friar 62. Sports day 63. Britain's Scilly ...

64. Afternoon performance 67. Mythical horned horse 68. US property agent 70. Lunatic 71. Landlord's income 72. Weather map line 73. Lady's title 74. Send (cash) 75. Most avid 77. Anticipate 78. Days & ...

79. Flee 82. Painters' stands 86. Boredom 87. Long time 89. Austrian alpine flower 92. Children 94. Escapade 96. Luncheon meat 98. Identical sibling 100. Laughing scavenger 101. ... & evens 103. Fasten (envelope) 105. Civic 106. Finished 108. Number of cat's lives 111. Dig for minerals 112. Exclusive group members 114. Lampoon 116. Vow 119. Filled tortilla 120. Scottish valley 121. Exercise club 123. Incursion 124. Lambs' mothers 125. Straggler (4-5) 126. Self-sustaining environment 127. Sect, Hare ...

130. Olympic Games body (1,1,1) 131. Talk at incessantly 135. Nude 138. Brazilian soccer hero 139. Rugged peak 141. Grind (teeth) 144. A great deal of 146. In the manner of (1,2) 147. Flying saucers (1,1,2) 148. Through 149. Executive jet 150. Swine enclosure 151. Flog 152. Dictator, Adolf ...

153. Eyelid swelling 155. Ayes & ...

157. Wattle tree 158. Shafts of light 160. ... & lows 161. For a specific purpose (2,3) 162. Henry VIII royal house 163. Kon-Tiki's captain, ... Heyerdahl 165. Bride's partner 166. Immense period 167. Irish organisation (1,1,1)

168. Seance board 169. Climate feature, El ...

171. Argentina's Buenos ...

172. Struck with leg joint 175. Relationship (3-2) 176. Wading bird 179. Carrot colour 180. Middling (2-2) 182. ... spumante 184. Coaches (team) 185. Bright (future) 186. Unhappy 188. Unfluctuating 189. Earthenware cup 190. Owl call 191. Yuck!

193. Cover with gold 194. Bind with string 196. Cold meats & cheeses shop 197. Cash advance 198. Fully satisfies 200. On end 205. Named before marriage 207. Damsels 210. Mouth organ 211. Femur 212. Actress, ... Thompson 213. Anti-attacker spray 214. Gambling city, ... Vegas 216. Street 218. Fabled whale, ... Dick 219. Breakfast or dinner 220. Insignificant people 224. Excessive self-love 227. Rock band, Manfred ...

229. Hand (out) 230. Give off 231. Money resources 232. Dork 233. Slog 235. Extremely 237. Ruminate 239. Knuckle of veal stew, ... bucco 241. Perfume, ... toilette (3,2) 244. Lads 246. Size 249. Infant's carriage 252. Eminent 254. Birthplace of St Francis 256. Canada's capital 258. Hillocks 259. Baby's skin problem, ... rash 260. Licence update 263. Shopping binge 264. Spoof 265. Formed a crowd 267. Russian newspaper 270. Strangely beautiful 271. Exhausting supply of (5,2) 272. Red-nosed reindeer 273. Deliberately sink 274. Greek fable teller 277. As well 279. Ancient Peruvian 281. Hum tunelessly 284. Ukraine capital 286. Captures (criminal) 288. Rousing (speech) 292. Mongrel 294. Writer, ... Blyton 295. Uncensored 298. Milk coffee style 300. Knight's charger 301. Tapering fruit 303. Noblemen 306. Priest's lectures 308. Barrier across stream 309. Head cook 311. More briny 314. Recycle 315. Hammered (in) 316. Perspiration-soaked 317. Spanish friend 318. Crazy 319. Knowledge tests 320. Dedicatory poems 321. Suffering optical defect (5-4) 322. Shelters from sun 323. Promise 324. Moderated (5,4)

1. Prudish 2. Had to repay 3. Reception host 4. Acute anxiety 5. Manage, make ... meet 6. Young hen 7. Vegetable, spring ...

8. Moscow citadel 9. Sample (3,3) 10. Hollywood legend, Marilyn ...

11. Attracts 12. NC US state 13. Tiny insects 14. Readily 15. Dollar division 16. Silly 17. Macaroni or spaghetti 18. European currency unit 19. Ones & ...

24. The A of AD 28. In proportion, pro ...

30. Saudi native 31. June 6, 1944 (1-3) 33. First batsman 35. More orderly 37. Misfortunes 38. Kind 40. Sending via Internet 42. Take on 44. Cook in juices 45. On dry land 47. Eskimo hut 48. Became gentler 49. Latter-day Saints follower 50. Youths 53. Lurked 54. Kindles 57. German shepherd dogs 58. Admires 60. Spruce (up) 63. Crossly 65. High cards 66. Conger fish 68. Metal track 69. Neglect 76. Young paper seller 79. Extrasensory perception (1,1,1) 80. Fast-moving celestial body 81. Bursts (of laughter) 83. Royal racecourse 84. Come in 85. Slide on snow 88. Vital 90. Large birds 91. Taverns 93. Furthest inside 95. Chinese city, Hong ...

97. Utterly stupid 99. Penned 100. Principal 102. River-mouth triangle 104. Directed 107. LP material 109. Uproar 110. Set of two 111. Lowing sounds 113. Most shipshape 115. Discrepancy 117. Thyme or coriander 118. Minus 121. Mourned 122. Assembly toy kit 127. Cambodian communist group, ...

Rouge 128. Irritated (of skin) 129. Carelessly 132. Magician's chant 133. God of Islam 134. Author, Georgette ...

135. Most slender 136. Nepal's capital 137. Work clothes 138. Had 140. Pregnancy 141. Slopes

142. Space traveller 143. Bulb flowers 145. Study of past events 151. Apt 154. Tugs sharply 156. Corrosive fluids 159. Boxer, Muhammad ...

164. French yes 169. Suckle 170. Snooped 173. Token (fee) 174. Baby eagles 177. Pop song's flip (1-4) 178. Mixer drinks 181. Former (3-4) 183. Defrosting 187. Great foe 192. Alternator 195. Writers 199. Is plentiful 201. Unfeeling 202. Impact sound 203. Climb 204. Sydney surf beach 206. Bell 207. Florida resort 208. Condemn to hell 209. Pen tips 213. ... & papa 215. Greed 217. Up hill & down ...

221. Premonitions 222. News stories 223. Polluted air 224. Jacob's Old Testament twin 225. Start (of illness) 226. Scent 228. Romanticise 234. Flattery 236. Summary 238. The States (1,1,1) 240. Jet-bubble bath 242. Joined 243. Cheap-rate time (3-4) 245. Antagonist 247. Parachute delivery 248. Playful marine mammal 250. Remove (limb) 251. Prepared mentally, ... up 253. Speaks 255. Trade 257. Banknote bundles 258. Ship's bottom 261. Naturist 262. Rhyme, Wee ... Winkie 265. Mutter 266. Fissure 268. Paris landmark, ... Triomphe (3,2) 269. Charge with offence 275. Irish Republic 276. Single egg cell 278. Sniffed 280. Brothers' sons 282. Repose 283. Longest river 285. Pimples 287. Holy people 289. Stage whispers 290. Mariner 291. Black Sea port 292. Dr Jekyll's alter ego (2,4) 293. Pull heavily 296. Standards 297. Illegal moneylending 299. Garbage 302. Performer 304. From India or China 305. Composer, Andrew ... Webber 306. As a gamble, on ...

307. Nevada quickie divorce city 308. Weave (one's way) 310. Shun food 312. Towards centre of 313. Wet weather

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - Pageg 113 y, ,

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Page 114 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Presentation to 'Bereavement Assistance' from Duke of Richmond Lodge No.39 ■ The Macedon Ranges Guardian newspaper recently featured a story about the children at Kyneton Primary School who were conducting their own fund-raising for much-needed repair of the heating system and maintenance work at the Kyneton Primary School.

When Kyneton Zetland Lodge member, Brian Ward, read the story, he was appalled, saying that it reminded him of his schooling days, when there was no heating, and no facilities.

"That was during the Depression though and we didn't expect anything then. But in the 21st Century this is totally unacceptable," he said.

Upon reading the story Brian Ward approached his Lodge for support, which was freely given, and a grant of $1200 was made.

"It was then suggested I approach our Freemasons Victoria Board of Benevolence, to find out if they could assist us."

The request was presented to the board and a few days later, Brian received another call from a member of the Board asking what the total cost of the repairs would be.

Bro. Ward told him it amounted to $3968.

The school was then able to cover the full cost of the repairs to the boiler, an achievement only possible due to the initial efforts of the children having started a 'jelly bean guessing competition' and being featured in the local newspaper.

■ Members of the Duke of Richmond Lodge No. 39 were pleased to make a donation to 'Bereavement Assistance' on Tuesday, August 27, after reading of the organisation in a recent copy of the Freemasons Victoria Engage newsletter.

The founder of the organisation Ted Worthington OAM, JP, and a Past Master of St Crispin Lodge was in attendance at theAugust meeting and a presentation of a cheque for the amount of $400 was made to Ted Worthington by Les Cooper in the South at the Waverley Masonic Centre.

Ted and Les were able to review their past involvement in the Victoria Police Service and of the many folk they encountered in their past pursuits.

First Leaders of Freemasonry in Victoria Frederick Thomas Hickford

● Ted Worthington and Les Cooper

Victorian Masonic Bowls Club ■ Get together with friends and your fellow Brother for a game of bowls and a bight to eat on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

There are so many other things that you could be doing on a Sunday, but getting out your whites and polishing up your favourite balls takes your weekend to a whole new level.

At only $10 a year, membership to this Club will provide you with the opportunity to meet with regular or new members as well as stretch the legs.

The Victorian Masonic Bowls Club, established under the name of the Masonic Club Melbourne Bowls Section in the 1960s is proud of its history.

Originally meeting at the Flinders Street Masonic Club, the group moved to the Carlton Bowling Club in 1976 after being advised that the Flinders Stmeeting room would no longer be available. This was quite convenient as some of the members were already members of the Carlton Bowling Club.

The Club also met and played in country areas also; Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat, Colac, Ocean Grove and Traralgon to name just a few.

Additionally, each year a six-day Easter trip was arranged in Sydney. This trip is part of a long tradition of visits that dates back to 1961 when some of the members of the newly formed club went to Sydney for a racing carnival.

On Easter Friday these members apparently could not find a watering hole to wet their whistles so out of desperation (as it was an emergency) dropped in at a local police station to ask where they could go.

The policeman attending at the time advised that the Harbord Bowling Club, of which he was a member, was the only place they could go and if they'd like to wait, he would drive them all there. They waited.

On arrival they were greeted warmly by Harbord Club personnel and as the day wore on, and with each glass tasting better and better, they decided they would come back next Easter and play bowls as a gesture of thanks.

The decision was agreed upon by all of the other members back home marking the start of 47-year friendship, possibly because the Harbord Bowling Club ran out of members!

This tradition in Sydney included visiting the Paramatta Club before it closed down after 40 years, and the Hogan, Erwin, Rosehill and St George Clubs.

As the St George Club also ran out of members, the group then went to the Francis Drake Bowling Club where members met to play for the Cliff Sproule Perpetual Trophy. Cliff's wife Kitty Sproule passed away at the ripe old age of 103.

It wasn't until 1986 that the Club was officially renamed the Victorian Masonic Bowls Club, after gaining approval from the then Grand Master MWBro. Austin Asche with two exceptions; that 75 per cent of members should be Masons and that the President of the Club would have to be a Mason. These two exceptions were placed in the constitution and are still relevant today.

In the late 80s it seemed hoon cars were all the rage around the area, so the Club was given the opportunity to move to the Middle Park Bowling Club, where they have stayed until today.

More recently the Club has entertained the Blind Bowlers at the Middle Park Bowling Club each year in December for a game of bowls, a pre- Christmas meal and refreshments. This event requires sponsors to cover costs the cost of sponsoring a blind bowler is only $10 and includes a game of bowls, a pre-Christmas meal and refreshments.

To be a sponsor you do not have to attend on the day, although it is encouraged.

Over the years since its establishment, membership to the Victorian Masonic Bowls Club has been on a steady increase, starting with 30 members in the 1960s up to around 60 members in the 1970s. By the time the Club moved to Middle Park membership had reached 140 members, but dropped again in 2010 to 80 members.

With such a rich history it would be a shame to see the Club's membership decline even further. It would be great to see some new faces to reignite the traditions of the Club and continue its growth well into the next decade.

The 2013-14 Bowls Season: Sunday, October 20 Middle Park Bowling Club 12pm lunch to be advised - 1pm bowls Sunday, November 17 Coburg/Moreland Bowls Club 12pm lunch to be advised - 1pm bowls Sunday, December 8 Middle Park Bowling Club 1pm bowls - 3pm Xmas dinner Blind bowlers sponsor day Sunday, February 16 Coburg/Moreland Bowls Club 12pm lunch to be advised - 1pm bowls Sunday, March 16 Coburg/Moreland Bowls Club 12pm lunch to be advised - 1pm bowls If you are interested in learning more about the Club or joining, please contact Honourable Secretary WBro. Frank Anning on 9585 5206

By Gabrielle Forman

● Frederick Thomas Hickford ■ Born in Brunswick, Victoria, on November 5 1862, he attended Melbourne University and earned his Bachelor of Arts in 1890, his Bachelor of Law in 1892 and his Master of Arts in 1897.

A schoolmaster at Geelong College, he was called to the bar in 1892.

Frederick Hickford was a partner in various law firms from around 1897 until his death.

In 1902 he was elected to the Victorian Legislative Assembly as the member for East Bourke Boroughs, but he resigned in 1903 to run for the federal seat of Mernda, without success.

From 1906 to 1918 he was a Brunswick City Councillor, serving as mayor from 1909 to 1910.

During his public career Frederick Hickford became renowned as an authority on both local government and tramway matters.

He had a deep commitment to his community; he was a member of the Federation League of Victoria, director of the Australian Natives Association, director and chair of the Melbourne Tramways Trust, president of the Royal Society of St George, and chairman of the Melbourne and Metropolitan Fire Brigade.

Frederick Hickford’s Masonic career was no less distinguished than his business and community involvement, by any standards his rise in Freemasonry was rapid.

He joined the Davies Lodge No. 138 on December 5 1893. He served as Worshipful Master of the Lodge at just 31 years of age.

A further five years saw him holding the very senior position of Grand Registrar, which culminated in his appointment as Grand Master of Freemasons in Victoria in 1918.

Most Worshipful Brother Frederick Hickford died at South Yarra in 1929.

■ Excerpts taken from 'The Masonic Grand Masters of Australia' by Kent Henderson & Wikipedia.

● To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, or attend upcoming public events, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au or ’Like’ our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/freemasonsvic for the most up to date information. ● ‘Freemasons: The Inside Story’ airs every Monday night at 8.30pm on Channel 31, with replays throughout the week on Thursdays at 12.30am, 3pm and Saturdays at 12.30pm. Or catch up online at www.c31.org.au and follow the links.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - Page 115

West Hollywood

JACKMAN BACK ON BROADWAY IN LA

From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.

Special Holiday Offer at Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites

‘Jackman’ of all trades

■ Is there anything he can't do?

Hugh Jackman is now the entertainers’ entertainer.

Hugh is to take Back On Broadway to Los Angeles for one night only for charity.

The Wolverine star and The Boy From Oz Tony winner will revisit his sold out hit Hugh Jackman, Back on Broadway October 12 at the Dolby Theatre, formally the Kodak Theatre, where the Oscars are held every year in Hollywood.

The charity that will benefit from this sold-out show is the Motion Picture and Television Fund.

Hugh, or 'Huge' as we affectionately call him, is starring in one of the best movies of the year.

Critically acclaimed Prisoners is set for release. Starring along with Hugh are Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis, Maria Bello and Terrance Howard.

A stellar cast in a gripping drama about a father whose morality is put to the test when he kidnaps the man he believes is responsible for the disappearance of his daughter and her friend. There is a hot buzz about this film in Hollywood.

At the Australians In Film premiere of Prisoners Alan Johnson from the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites is pictured with Hugh Jackman attacking an Aussie meat pie.

● Alan Johnson with Hugh Jackman

GavinWood

● Chris Hemsworth

● Paul Hogan

■ I have received many requests from you about my new company, Countdown Motion Pictures.

It all started when I reconnected with Adam Howard who used to work with me on Countdown at the ABC Ripponlea Studios in Melbourne.

Adam, as an 18 year old, was in charge of the graphics computer and there were only five in the world at that time.

He worked on Countdown, graphics for the Weather, The Gillies Report, Rock Arena and also shows with the late Frank Thring and Gerry Connolly.

Adam ventured off to the States where he has been for 23 years and has more than 150 movies to his credit.

Adam and I have been business partners for the past three years and we included David Holman into the company.

David is one of the world's best music producers and has worked with Olivia Newton-John, No Doubt, King Bees, Everclear and a hot new artist from Melbourne, Leanne Kingwell.

I will tell you more about Leanne in the coming weeks as she is getting close to be signed to a massive recording contract here in the States.

Her new album/CD. is one of the best I have ever heard. I can't wait for you to hear it. We are very excited about the future of Leanne Kingwell.

Our other member of the Countdown family is Tony McVann.

You might have seen the latest and hugely successful ABBA special on the ABC in Australia; well Tony did the sound for the special.

Tony and I worked together at a radio station in Brisbane back in 1976. Tony is a world class sound supervisor in film, television and radio and we are happy to have him in Countdown Motion Pictures.

Running a company takes revenue and we are always looking for investor involvement. If you would like to join us on our journey please contact me at: gavin@countdownmotionpictures.com

A Man At Work

● Ross D Wyllie

Hoges estate sold for $4.8m ■ Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky have just purchased the Malibu estate from Paul Hogan and Linda Kozlowski for $4.8 million.

The remodeled home, built in 1992 and set on an acre, has ocean views, vaulted ceilings and a library.

There are five bedrooms and six bathrooms with more than 6000 square feet of contemporary interior.

Hemsworth, 30, stars in the new Ron Howard movie Rush and also in the upcoming Thor: The Dark World.

Paul Hogan turns 74 this week, October 8, and Linda Kozlowski, 55, are known for the Crocodile Dundee films.

■ I have managed to secure a terrific holiday deal for all readers of the Melbourne Observer.

When you are planning your trip to Los Angeles come and stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood.

Please mention 'Melbourne Observer' when you book and you will receive the SPECIAL RATE of the day.

Please contact Joanna at: info@ramadaweho.com

Countdown Motion Pictures crew

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

■ I have seen Colin Hay from the very early days of Men At Work where I was the first to play his first hit Who Can It Be Now on 3XY. I received a lovely letter from his father, the late Jim Hay, who was the piano tuner at . He signed it from the Laddie's Daddy. A treasured memory of an exciting time for Australian music that exploded on to the world stage.

Colin lives here in California but I don't think he is home very much. He is now travelling the world with his one-man show that plays to more than 2000 people every night.

Original songs with exceptional guitar playing and comedy make for one enjoyable night with Colin Hay. The man really is funny.

When Colin Hay comes to town make sure you have a ticket, do not miss his show it is one of the best going around. Colin is playing a concert here in Pasadena at the Levitt Pavilion, October 26 at 8pm.

I would be there but I will be in Brisbane for my daughter, Shannon's wedding the next day.

For tickets go to: www.luckmanarts.org/events

Music Men in Melbourne

● Countdown Motion Pictures Management: Gavin Wood, David J. Holman, Adam Howard and Tony McVann at Chin Chin on Sunset Boulevard

www.gavinwood.us

■ I was so pleased to catch up with two of my oldest and dearest friends when I was back in Melbourne a couple of weeks ago.

Ross D. Wyllie and I go right back to Brisbane days and I was so proud to see him host a national pop show called Uptight and Happening 70.

He in my opinion is one of the best showmen in the business.

Ross has had a brilliant career entertaining us over the years and more recently at the 60s GO! Show in Melbourne and Adelaide where he received several standing ovations.

Ross also received a prestigious ‘Molly’ award that was presented to Ross by his old mate Ian 'Molly' Meldrum for his services to the Australian music industry.

Ross is also a proud North Melbourne supporter and we used to host the Northerners lunches before the games for many years.

I was thrilled to see Ross and his beautiful wife Eileen.

My other friend is Bill Duff who was the boss at Festival Records for many years and we used to get up to a bit of mischief over the years.

Bill is still cracking jokes and is the happiest and most positive person I know. He told me that he reads the Melbourne Observer every week so a big 'Hi' Bill and his lovely wife Jo. - Gavin Wood

Page 116 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013

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Hunting

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - Page 117

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Hunting

Dewey: ‘No bells or whistles’ ■ Dewey Knives have released a new book, No Bells Or Whistles, designed for the modern-day hunter.

Robert Dewey is a professional engineer who grew up in Sydney's eastern suburbs and graduated in 1948 as a mechanical engineer.

After some years working as an engineer, he moved on to management and the corporate world.

He finally developed a company which designed and made wood working machinery, imported and part manufactured commercial cutlery and supplied cookery kits and clothing to the hospitality training industry.

Rob first turned his attention to sporting knives when the company tendered for the design and manufacture of a knife for the Australian Army at the time of the first Gulf War. A number of orders followed but, subsequently, an imported knife succeeded in winning the tender for future supply.

The army knife had however made its mark in the hunting world and Rob was requested to continue manufacture for other groups. At this point he began exploring the manufacture of a range of sporting knives.

A major advancement in the development of sporting knife manufacturing came from the Deweys' buyout of Wilf Williams and his Dingo brand. He gratefully acknowledges the technical input and manufacturing expertise together with the knife designs that Wilf provided.

Rob has always been keen to engage the whole sector in the development of sporting knives and in developing his range. He sought and welcomed the suggestions of experienced

● Robert Dewey pictured in No Bells Or Whistles hunters and campers. Many opportuni- major part of their marketing effort. ties for discussion of knife designs took The results from a combination of place at the workshops and talks that web and print media advertising inRob gave to hunting clubs. creased steadily through the As part of the development of a "noughties". range of sporting knives Rob also put Since leaving the corporate world considerable time into researching Rob and his wife Reni have worked sharpening equipment and techniques. as a team on many of the ventures.

It was during this research that he Reni currently handles the accounts learned the value of diamond sharpen- and administrative duties of the ing systems. organisation. Ian branched off to a caRob's son, Ian, developed a well reer based in risk management in outpresented web site which provided the door adventure activities.

All in all, the Deweys were and remain a functioning, well disciplined family team.

At the age of 70 years plus, Rob settled on a future as a sporting knife designer and manufacturer.

Rob likes to be kept busy and treats work as a hobby. Rob finds the research, development and design fascinating and states that he will continue to make sporting knives until it is physically too difficult.

As a professional engineer, Rob has an engineer's eye. He likes simple smooth curves and balance in his knife designs. Handle shapes must be ergonomically sound.

Each knife offered to the hunter/ camper has a particular function to perform so that the knife can meet the hunter's expectations.

He abhors the thought that a knife used in the field should include "bells and whistles" and seeks to ensure his knives do not include features that are not necessary for its stated function.

By deliberate choice, and whenever possible, Rob uses blade steel that has an acceptable mill finish. Whereas the blade bevels will be bright and shiny, the remainder is a non reflective dull grey colour.

Not finishing the overall blade in a highly polished state saves the buyer money,and in no way affects the blade's performance and is less likely to scare prey away in the field by flashing the sun's reflection at the wrong time.

Rob does not consider himself to be a custom knife maker and has not developed his range of knives with an eye on the knife collectors' market.

He admits to being an admirer of the standard of workmanship required to

● The book, Dewey Knives: No Bells Or Whistles, is available for $120. Order through Dewey Knives, 427 Stony Point Rd, Bittern, Vic 3918. Phone 5983 0454.

produce what he sees as works of art.

He holds the view that often these works of art have features that are superfluous to the needs of the camper/ hunter and he states that he will continue to remain in his chosen market niche.

Australian made sporting knives form a minor percentage of Australian sales in this branch of the cutlery industry. However, the Deweys make between 300 and 350 sporting knives a year. The brand has become synonymous with good quality and good customer service. They have become well respected for these attributes throughout the industry.

Page 118 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013

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Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

Melbourne Observer Greyhounds Columnist Kyle Galley

GREYHOUNDS: KYLE GALLEY’S ROUND-UP

■ The annual charity greyhound race series, the Great Chase, concludes with the rich Final at The Meadows track in Melbourne this (Wed.) afternoon.

Each year, the Great Chase series is conducted at tracks throughout country Victoria.

Local disability and community groups are invited to compete, and are ‘matched’ with greyhounds in the qualifying heats.

These groups also receive the opportunity to go to the track and watch their dog compete.

All the while the dogs race for prizemoney for the groups, with the series winner to also earn the representative charity a further percentage of race winnings for the next 12 months.

Numerous community organisations across Victoria have benefited financially from participating in the Great Chase over the years, while the sport of greyhound racing receives valuable publicity, and increases its involvement in the broader community by conducting the series.

Seeing the community group members delight at watching the dogs race, and the enjoyment they receive from interacting with the animals after the event is enough to put a smile on anyone's face.

Adelaide Cup

■ Six Victorian greyhounds are among the qualifiers for Thursday night's $107,000 Adelaide Cup at the Angle Park circuit.

Local chasers could only snare two spots in the feature event after last week's Heats, with the interstate raiders dominating.

The Victorian charge will be led

by Tomac Bale for husband and wife Mark and Lisa Delbridge.

The Delbridge kennel is chasing its first Group One success, and given Tomac Bale's performances in feature races recently, they stand an excellent chance of winning the $75,000 first prize.

Tomac Bale finished second in the prestigious Natonal Sprint Championship Final in August when claimed right on the post by Xylia Allen.

Although he recorded the equal slowest time of the five heat winners last week, Tomac Bale has drawn the coveted one box in Thursday night's Final.

Fellow Victorians in the event are Ronan Izmir, Iona Seven, Farmor Las Vegas, Kokoda Spirit and Peter Rocket.

Seeing the light ■ Several Traralgon night race meetings in coming weeks will be run in daylight due to issues with the racetrack lighting.

Once daylight savings commences, Traralgon's usual Saturday night timeslot will be snapped up by other clubs.

There have been plans to build a new racing circuit at Traralgon, to replace the existing track which has operated since 1973, and word is that the works required on the existing lighting may not be done at all, given they

will be ultimately replaced anyway once a new circuit is built.

Greyhound Racing Victoria CEO Adam Wallish said that the Traralgon circuit will be rebuilt sooner rather than later. As well as the new track, a pavilion for spectators will also be constructed.

The greyhound setup will be located inside the existing gallops course. To my knowledge this will be the only site in Australia where a racetrack and facilities operates in the middle of an existing track and facilities.

Cranbourne works ■ Wallish also indicated that another major infrastructure project on Greyhound Racing Victoria's agenda is the rebuild of the Cranbourne greyhound track.

The circuit opened for business in 1974 and deserves to be bought up to a modern standard, as the greater Cranbourne region is home to several of the states leading training and breeding establishments.

Money will also be spent by the three racing codes, which share the Cranbourne Recreation Reserve complex, on the existing grandstand to give it an overhaul.

Through strategic growth in betting and general interest in greyhound racing, the industry now has the funds to spend on these and other important capital projects.

Geelong Cup ■ Victoria's next big provincial race

is the Geelong Cup, with the series to be staged next week.

Heats are set for next Monday night, October 14, with the Final on Friday week, October 18.

Connections of the winner will pocket $43,750 for a little over 25 seconds work.

Unlike the other two codes, the country greyhound Cups all carry similar stakes. In fact, the regional towns where these greyhound races take place can often boast that their Cup is worth more than the local gallops or trotting feature.

Adopt-a-G’hound ■ The Greyhound Adoption Program stall at this year's Royal Melbourne Show again proved popular, and not just with the thousands of visitors.

The stall was awarded first place in the 'Best Pet and Advance Dog Pavilion Exhibitor' category of the Commercial Exhibitor Awards.

The judging panel made particular mention of the enthusiasm of the staff working at the stand, and the overall quality of the display.

As well as the goodies on offer for patrons to take home for free, of course the chance to get up close to these gentle canines would also be a big drawcard.

The Greyhound Adoption Program is administered by Greyhound Racing Victoria and has proven enormously successful in housing retired racers for well over a decade.

Salegreys

■ A large group of owners are enjoying a good run with greyhounds which bear the Salegreys moniker.

They are raced by members of the Sale Greyhound Racing Club, which has enjoyed good success with low cost syndicates for people of all backgrounds to experience the excitement of racing.

Salegreys Power won two in a row on the Sale track earlier this month before a third at The Meadows last week. She races at Cranbourne this Wednesday night.

Salegreys Chatta ran a few minor placings for trainer Ray Floyd and is close to returning to racing after a short break.

Salegreys Late completes the three starters for the syndicate. She has been a work in progress for some time (hence the name) and after a third at her first race start last week is engaged tonight (Wednesday) at Cranbourne.

All told the Salegreys dogs have collected 10 wins and 16 placings from just 40 starts.

This week

■ Upcoming race meetings. Wednesday: The Meadows (Day), Bendigo (Twilight), Cranbourne (Night), Ballarat (Night). Thursday: Warragul (D), Shepparton (T), Sandown Park (N), Warrnambool (N). Friday: Traralgon (T), Geelong (N). Saturday: Bendigo (T), The Meadows (N). Sunday: Healesville (D), Sandown Park (D), Sale (T). Monday: Ballarat (D), Shepparton (T), Geelong (N). Tuesday: Horsham (T), Warragul (N).

MY GRAND LUNCHEON WITH FOOTY MATES

■ Forgive me, I’m late! It was a grand week. It had been six years since I was down for a live Grand Final which broke a 63 years continuous run.

It is fair to say it was an overwhelming seven days meeting with hundreds of old friends.

The Grand Final from a purist viewpoint was not the greatest spectacle but the coaching tactics were enthralling despite players’ fumbles and miss-kicks.

The Hawk supporters were thrilled with the final siren scoreboard and the 15 points victory. There was no ‘all-in brawl’ as expected so the umps can take credit.

For me the Brownlow Medal night partnering AFL’s first female Commissioner, Sam Mostyn, was the highlight.

Those of you who follow this column know I recently took you on the trip of my first Brownlow count in 1961.

It was held in the VFL’s Harrison House boardroom with my radio station, 3KZ, the only media present.

It has become the AFL’s social function of the year putting the event at the pinnacle of the social calendar.

The younger women partnering their famous footballers are a joy to behold.

Congratulations to all the women, young and mature, who spared no expense to shine on ‘your night’.

The fact it was one of the most exciting counts, ‘milked’ by the vote caller Andrew D to decide the winner from the three champions, Gary Ablett, Joel Selwood and Dane Swan, all neck and neck, and Andrew, as usual, having the last word, “and the WINNER is .... Gary Ablett by one point from Joel Selwood!”

Footy Briefs

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel Every function, and I attended most of them, was like returning to “home week”.

It was Birthday/Christmas/New Year’s Eve all wrapped together.

I did plan an intimate luncheon with a dozen friends, some of whom I hadn’t seen for more than 30 years. All but four attended.

Some may have been surprised I held them in high esteem.

The four apologies were Bobby Skilton, ill; Allen Aylett, Kevin Sheedy and Kevin Bartlett all speaking at charity fundraisers. Forgiven!

The others were: Ronald Dale Barassi, Alex ‘Jessa’ Jesaulenko, John Dugdale, Ron Joseph, Ron

Thomas, umpire mate John Sutcliffe, ‘Hassa’ Mann, Ken Fraser and Barry Davis.

It was everything I wanted – mates recalling great memories and embellishing the facts!

Buddy Franklin’s $10m done deal ■ We move to the biggest ‘atomic bombshell explosive’ news in the recent AFL history: ‘Buddy’ Franklin’s $10m, nine years contract.

My thoughts are mixed because the AFL up here in NSW need the Sydney Swans to continue to be the immed-

iate force playing Finals and picking up a premiership or two as this is the AFL’s toughest market to win and conquer.

GWS Giants would always have needed another three seasons to play Finals with or without the massive ‘Buddy’.

There will be an enormous reaction from the other clubs, criticism of the AFL, especially to Andrew D and the work to date which has gone into the ”equalisation plan”.

It will be suggested there should be NO extra monies for living allowance.

This is a huge blow to the GWS plans as ‘Buddy’s’ presence not only ‘on-field’ but also ‘off-field’ with his publicity and PR value would compensate for the loss of Kevin Sheedy’s huge daily input wearing the ‘Head Coach’s’cap.

No matter what new title he has such as ‘Marketing Manager’ it holds nowhere near the importance for a journo of quoting a comment from the Coach or his assistant.

I wrote along these lines some six weeks back it was important GWS, led by dynamo David Matthews tie

■ Australian Rules football will be showcased on ANZAC Day in Wellington, New Zealand, for the next five years after St Kilda sealed a deal that locks the club into the fixture until 2018.

■ Almost one million footy cards of draft hopefuls have been made available, says afl.com.au After selling more than 630,000 of the cards last year, the AFL has pushed on to issue more than 880,000 cards of the country's brightest prospects ahead of the 2013 NAB AFL Draft.

The AFL, with its official provider Select, produced 92 cards in the Future Forces collection, plus signature sets for the 30 players of the AIS-AFL level two program, and the 22 who earned All Australian selection this year.

■ Sydney Swans lodged a free agency offer for Hawthorn's Buddy Franklin with the AFL on Friday. The Swans have made a nine-year, $10 million offer.

up Sheedy’s next contract and pay him his worth. It could be a base salary plus bonus incentives based on results.

It has not yet been finalised. One thing I have learned in my career - is don’t take anything for granted and never put off something you can do today until tomorrow.

I can’t think of a replacement with the Franklin talents. But on a positive GWS can pick up two key position players in defence and with the overs a ruckman.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - Page 119

Page 120 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, October 9, 2013

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