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www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Veritas: My tip about Melissa Doyle ................ Page 95 The Spoiler: Neighbours and Home and Away ...... Page 95 Jim and Aaron: The life of Richard Matheson ............ Page 96 Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre shows, auditions ......... Page 97 Radio: More women on the air in Melb. ........................... Page 100 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD

Little Orphan trAshley: a gay old time ‘My Life In The Nude’ at La Mama

● Maude Davey tells her story in My Life In The Nude, at La Mama Theatre, Carlton until July 21.

Photo: Paul Dunn ■ La Mama Theatre presents My Life In The Nude at 205 Faraday St, Carlton until July 21.

Maude Davey is retiring her nude acts, having been taking her clothes off in public for 29 years. Now it's time for less make-up, and more clothes!

My Life In The Nude is written and performed by Maude Davey, directed by Anni Davey and designed by Isaac Lumis.

Maude Davey trained as an actor at the Victorian College Of The Arts and was a founding member of the theatre/music a cappella group Crying In Public Places, with which she has toured nationally and internationally with three shows.

She collaborates frequently with Finucane and Smith, performing nationally and internationally in The Burlesque Hour and nationally in Salon de Dance, The Flood by Jackie Smith and Carnival Of Mysteries for the Melbourne Festival 2010.

A celebration of her body of work, My Life In The Nude will be a ribald retrospective, a cabaret confession, in which Maude bares all for the very last time.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council For The Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Performance Season: Until July 21 Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St, Carlton.

Tickets: $25/$15 Bookings: 9347 6142 or www.lamama.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold ■ Pseudo Echo will bring to a close the 14th Australian Masters Games in Geelong this October as they headline an evening of celebration and achievement at the official closing ceremony. Lead singer-guitarist Brian Canham and band members Ben Grayson, Darren Danielson and Simon Rayner will send off Games participants in grand style.

Review by STEPHEN LEEDEN

● Rhys Bobridge, Trevor Ashley and Rhonda Burchmore in Little Orphan trAshley.

Photo: Prudence Upton ■ Following the success of their smash hit Fat Swan, writing team Trevor Ashley and Phil Scott are back in Melbourne and have brought with them their latest production Little Orphan trAshley.

Playing at the Comedy Theatre, the show follows the story of Little Orphan Fannie (Trevor Ashley), an inmate at an orphanage run by the boozy and wretched Miss Trannigan (Rhonda Burchmore). Fannie has a terrible secret about her being "not yet all woman" and sets off to find her parents to seek their permission for gender reassignment surgery.

On her quest Fannie meets acclaimed photographer/multimillionaire Daddy Warhorse (Gary Sweet) who promises to sponsor her and help her along the way.

The plot is not that deep, the storyline is simple, most of the jokes are aimed at a target audience of gay men and the semirelevant topical references used all centre on predictable popular culture.

In terms of writing, Ashley and Scott have done a good job of parodying popular songs to make them suit the action playing out on stage, but the show itself leaves a lot to be desired in terms of the richness of the narrative.

Rhonda Burchmore steals the show each time she steps out on stage, the audience responded with laughs, applause and admiration for her.

Gary Sweet is dashing and charming in his role as Daddy Warhorse, and will make every gay man in the audience want to be adopted by their very own sexy bald millionaire.

Little Orphan trAshley may not be the most powerful, provocative or well scripted show, but if you like a bit of song, dance, drag, and a lot of popular culture references all wound together in one show (or if you simply like watching an attractive buff half-naked dancer dressed as a dog) then it's worth checking out.

Season: Until July 14 Times: Tues 7pm, Wed - Fri 8pm, Sat 6.30 and 9.30pm, Sun 5pm Venue: Comedy Theatre, 240 Exhibition Street, Melbourne

Ron, Linda play to crowd of 33 ■ There is something exciting and novel happening in Burwood that lovers of acoustic music will not want to miss.

Forget about microphones and speakers, because Live At Baker Street is a special performing venue where the focus is on acoustic instrumental and vocal music in an intimate setting.

Comfort for the audience is a large factor, as there are just 33 seats in this delightful venue, and they are the kind of seats you might expect at your local Gold Class cinema.

Coming up on Thursday July 18 at Live At Baker Street, at 2 Florence St, Burwood, are the simply named but powerful duo Ron and Linda.

Linda O'Brien is one of Melbourne's best accompanists who is also a superb jazz pianist with two successful CDs to her name, Kitten On The Keys and Dizzy Fingers .

Linda is teaming with Ron Caffyn, a man with some of the smoothest vocals I have heard, and between them they tackle a selection of Broadway classics, a little jazz, blues, pop and cabaret.

And all with just a small stage, a great human voice and a Yamaha C7 grand piano.

Audience members who value their hearing will enjoy the fact that there is no amplification - it is all done by a pair of human hands and a set of good vocal chords.

The power and emotion of Ron's voice easily projects over thegrand piano, played with Linda's delicacy of touch and dynamics.

Linda O'Brien is a music/arts graduate of the University of Melbourne. She has played piano for Marina Prior, Sally-Anne Russell, Jackie Love, Donald Cant, the Australian Pops Orchestra, Australian Girls Choir and the Melbourne Welsh Male Choir.

She is the official vocal accompanist for many major eisteddfods, including the prestigious Royal South.

Ron Caffyn has performed on many live entertainment television shows, TV shows as well as in cabaret clubs and on major stages, including Hamer Hall, and has been the support artist for many international acts such as Helen Shapiro, Winifred Atwell, Del Shannon, Lovelace Watkins, Wilfred Bramble and Harry Corbett (Steptoe And Son), Norman Wisdom, Warren Mitchell (Til Death Do Us Part) and Eartha Kitt, to name a few.

Recently, Ron and Linda performed together at the Karralyka Theatre to sold-out audiences.

To book your tickets for what sounds like a very special and mellow evening, go to www.liveatbakerstreet.com - Julie Houghton

Gilchrist joins 10 ■ Legendary Australian wicket-keeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist is joining the Ten Network’s T20 Big Bash League commentary team.

Adam will join former team mate Ricky Ponting in the commentary box for the T20 Big Bash League, which will be broadcast live on Ten from December. ““The success of the Big Bash League last season shows T20 has a prominent place not only in the cricket calendar but also in the minds of cricket followers of all ages,” Adam said.

● Adam Gilchrist

● Linda O’Brien

Page 94 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013

MARKETING FEATURE

Places To Go

Highland Games at Amulet

● Tap into Scottish heritage at Amulet Wines on August 18.

● The special day is held at Amulet Winery near Beechworth

■ The fifth annual ‘Highland Games at Amulet’ is shaping to be the best yet.

Held on Sunday, August 18 at the Vineyard near Beechworth, it's the perfect setting for this celebration of Scottish heritage.

It is a family focused event that offers something for every member of the family with traditional Scottish games, pipe bands, traditional sword fighting displays, activities for the children and boutique wine and cider that is made on site.

Professional strongmen compete for the title of ‘Southern Highlander’.

These feats of strength are rarely seen outside metropolitan areas and it is the only event of its kind in northern Victoria.

Another highlight of the day is certainly the massed pipe band parade.

The sound of bagpipes echoing through the hills whilst the bands make their way down the sloping vineyard is spectacular.

Local police and CFA face off in the ‘Guns and Hoses’ charity tug-ofwar, with proceeds going to the Everton CFA. The Blue Ribbon Foundation will also be in attendance, joined by Constable T Bear.

● Hear the massed pipe bands at Amulet Vineyard

● See the mighty feats of strength at the Highland Games

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - Page 95

Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler MY TIP ABOUT MEL Media Flashes

ShowBiz!

For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven ■ Monday, July 15. Holly Hoyland comes to stay with the Kennedys; Paul gives Mason a job; Lucas inadvertantly thwarts the Turners' plans for another child.

■ Tuesday, July 16. Susan realises Holly might be more than she bargained for; Josh decides he wants to be with Amber; Vanessa desperately tries to convince Lucas to get out of the apartment purchase.

■ Wednesday, July 17. Mason breaks his good behaviour bond; Amber struggles against old feelings for Robbo; Kate drops a bombshell which could destroy Kyle's relationship.

■ Thursday, July 18. Kyle is rocked by Kate's news; Robbo claims he wants to win the Turners over but they don't buy it; Robbo discovers that Sonya is the witness against him.

■ Friday, July 19. Sonya's determined to protect her family; Robbo stops Joshua telling Amber how he feels about her; Kate is not pregnant but something is wrong with her.

Home and Away ■ Monday, July 15. Sid considers leaving Summer Bay. Brax tries to break through Casey's facade. Sasha and Spencer's first time together is interrupted by Maddy. Rosie prepares to leave Summer Bay as a former resident returns.

■ Tuesday, July 16. Sally Fletcher returns to Summer Bay. Zac's troubles with Holly escalate. Sasha is trapped in the Spencer and Maddy love triangle.

■ Wednesday, July 17. Zac tries to reach out to Holly.

Bianca races against time to reach Holly and Zac. Sally shows Pippa around the Bay. Roo wonders if Sally is hiding a secret ■ Thursday, July 18. Tamara and Kyle are pushed to breaking point by a disconsolate Casey. April and Dex wonder if they should join Sid in Broken Hill. Ricky and Brax's happiness is short-lived after an unexpected knock at the door.

Star Bursts

★

TV talk show host Michael Parkinson has this week revealed that he has prostate cancer.

★

Andy Murray became the first British male to win the tournament at the All England Club since Fred Perry did in 1936.

French star Marion Bartoli becaqme the fiftholdest woman to win their maiden Wimbledon title. The Australian TV ratings for Wimbledon were only mediocre for 7TWO and Seven.

★

Is a similar move on the cards for Melbourne’s Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady? Veteran 5AA (Adelaide) night announcer Bob Francis will retire at the end of 2013. He says that the decision was his alone; it is possible that 5AA are ready to make a change, and may have encouraged the decision. Francis's ratings have been in decline for some time.

LOCAL THEATRE AUDITIONS

■ Altona City Theatre: Tribute: A Rock Legends Revue July 14, 16, 17.Director: Rachel Collins; Musical Director: Dave Barclay. Audition bookings: 9398 5508 or Skype altonacitytheatre and follow the prompt.

■ Strathmore Theatrical Amateur Group (STAG): Funny Money (by Ray Cooney) August 18 at 5.30pm, August 19 at 7.30pm at the Strathmore Community Theatre. Director: Jonne Finnemore. Audition bookings: jonne2@optusnet.com.au ● Continued on Page 97

■ Veritas reckons the TV gossip have it all wrong about Sunrise cohost Melissa Doyle.

They have been pushing the yarn in print that Mel has been demoted, taken a $150,000 pay-cut, and will be relegated to Channel 7’s digital of-shoot, 7Two. There has also been talk of Mel co-hosting a 4.30pm News bulletin on Seven with former Today Tonight host Matt White.

This may be a shortterm move.

Veritas believes Melissa Doyle will be used in a major bid to re-assert Seven’s performance in the vital 6pm-7pm timeslot which currently includes Seven News with Peter Mitchell, and Today Tonight with Helen Kapalos.

Veritas believes that Seven will use Mel Doyle in a similar way that American network NBC used Today co-host Katie Couric to front the news on a national basis, in addition to local ‘anchors’.

Dills take Gary’s wheelchair

Veritas

Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic

● Melissa Doyle

Pirates Of Penzance ■ If you are anywhere near Warrandyte over the next few days, beware of a sudden appearance of pirates … but be not alarmed, because these friendly chaps are merely the famous Pirates of Penzance, which is having a season at Warrandyte High School Theatre.

Presented by Diamond Valley Singers and accompanied by Eltham Community Orchestra, the cast mixes an enthusiastic chorus with some delightful emerging new talent and some fine experienced Gilbert and Sullivan performers.

If you have never heard of the story of Pirates Of Penzance, it's really quite simple - in a typically topsy turvey Gilbert and Sullivan kind of way.

Young Frederic has turned 21, meaning he is released from his apprenticeship to a band of tenderhearted pirates.

He stumbles across Mabel, the beautiful daughter of Major-General Stanley and falls in love.

But there's a problem - as Frederic's birthday is February 29, he only has a birthday every four years, in a leap year.

His pirate apprenticeship states he must stay a pirate till his 21st birthday, not his 21st year, so the stage is set for mayhem, great music, and eventually a happy and romantic ending.

Perfect fare for chilly school holidays in Melbourne, when indoor activities are safer than outdoor ones, and this is a show that will entertain anyone from three to 103.

Starring as the beautiful Mabel is Linda Belle, while Orthon Charalambous is the handsome Frederic.

Creating the fabulous character role of Major-General Stanley is well known and impressive Gilbert and Sullivan performer, Owen Davies, with a young lady with a wonderful

● Police issued this photo of three men they want to interview regarding the disappearance of Gary Newton’s wheelchair ■ Victorian radio man Gary Newton was the victim of a cruel crime when his wheelchair was stolen from the MCG on Friday night.

Investigators have been told that Newton, 60, of Bell Post Hill, had left his wheelchair near the Medallist Bar while he watched the game from his seat.

It is believed the wheelchair was stolen sometime between 7pm and 10.30pm.

It is described as a light● Gary Newton blue Karma Econ 800 model, standard folding wheelchair. Police have released an image (above) of three men they believe can assist with their enquiries.

Gary Newton was involved in the early days of 3MP, and also worked at stations including 3SH, 3KZ, 3GL, GOLDFM, BayFM and KROCK.

ABC meets with locals

■ Veritas sees the irony that ABC Radio will kiley use the production facilities of the Geelong community radio station that it tried to tip out of its 94.7 FM frequency.

ABC Radio is opening a studio in G-Town, and is expected to utilise audio and production equipment owned by Diversitat, a community service organisation which runs the Pulse licence , on a commercial basis. ● Owen Davies as Major General Stanley in Pirates.

Photo: Lesley Walton voice beyond her years, Jessica Carascalao Heard, as Frederic's devoted and lovelorn nurse, Ruth.

There's an additional reason to support this production, as Diamond Valley Singers has a proud tradition of using its performances to raise money for people far less fortunate than themselves - over the past 20 years, the shows have raised over $128,000 to Open House in Ivanhoe, World Vision and the Elizabeth Nursery School in Malawi.

There are four more shows in the season - July 10, 12 and 13 at 8pm and also 2pm on July 13. Warrandyte High School Theatre is on the corner of Warrandyte and Alexander Rds, Warrandyte.

Tickets are $30 adults, $25 concession, and Under 16s are only $10. www.trybooking.com/cqeo or at the door. Enquiries: 9439 7843.

- Julie Houghton

Gown service for singers

● Melbourne designer of choice for brides and classical singers has launched a new sideline called The Hire Room, so everyone can have the chance to wear a Linda Britten gown for a big occasion. info@lindabritten.com

Page 96 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 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

RICHARD MATHESON February 20, 1926 - June 23, 2013

● The Bletchley Circle: Four from the top secret code-breaking facility at Britain's Bletchley Park during WWII reunite after the war and combine their unique skills to catch a serial killer.

FILM: THE BLETCHLEY CIRCLE: Genre: Thriller/TV. Cast: Anna Maxwell Martin, Rachael Stirling, Julia Graham, Sophie Rundle.

Year: 2012.

Rating: M. Running Time: 163 Minutes.

Format: DVD. Stars: ***½ Verdict: Enthralling and entertaining three part 'who-done-it?' thriller set in 1952 of four women who worked at the WWII's top secret wartime code-breaking centre at Bletchley Park who reunite to track down a serial killer stalking women throughout London. Good script, excellent 1950's Britain period detail and solid performances pull it off nicely. Also gives a fascinating insight into those who worked at the now legendary Bletchley Park and secrecy stipulations they had to endure after the war. A good companion piece to the equally entertaining and compelling series Foyle's War. FILM: ZERO DARK THIRTY: Genre: Drama/History/Thriller.

Cast: Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Joel Edgerton.

Year: 2012.

Rating: MA15+.

Running Time: 157 Minutes.

Release: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: **** Verdict: A step-by-step behind-the -scenes look at the decade-long hunt for terrorist leader Osama bin Laden after the September 11, 2001, attacks up to his death in May of 2011, through the eyes of an extraordinary woman's ten year odyssey to find him. Jessica Chastain gives a stand-out performance, facing personal and political obstacles along the way, all under the tight and tension filled direction of Kathryn Bigelow [The Hurt Locker]. Not an easy watch at times, but a revealing and thought provoking one well worth taking.

FILM: THE NEWSROOM - The Complete First Series: Genre: Drama/TV. Cast: Jeff Daniels, Emily Mortimer, Sam Waterston, John Gallagher, Jr. Year: 2012.

Rating: M. Running Time: 564 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***½ Verdict: A stand-out HBO series of a news anchorman's life that is shaken up when he is confronted with management and staff issues, and forced to work with a new team of colleagues. Oscar and Golden Globe winning creatorwriter Aaron Sorkin, who scribed the Academy award winning The Social Network and the multi-award winning series The West Wing, this time turns his attention to the running of a U.S. network newsroom, with captivating results.

Obviously inspired by Paddy Chayefsky's brilliantly shattering and groundbreaking Oscar winning 1976 drama Network, and even though it's not in that league The Newsroom certainly strike's a strong and captivating chord.

FILM: OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL: Genre: Fantasy/Adventure.

Cast: James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams.

Year: 2013.

Rating: PG. Running Time: 130 Minutes.

Format: DVD, BLU-RAY & BLU-RAY 3D. Stars: **½ Verdict: A re-imagined prequel of sorts to author L. Frank Baums timeless classic The Wizard of Oz is based more on the Oz books, of a small-time magician who is swept away to an enchanted land and is forced into a myriad of adventures and struggles. This is a visually spectacular feast and special effects extravaganza that has little else to offer as this emotionless journey unfolds. Many references to the original classic are throughout however, changes have also been made due to copyright issues from the 1939 MGM classic, making the results muddled for those who remember and revere its original inspiration. Directed with flare by Sam Raimi, who previously gave us The Evil Dead 1 & II, Army of Darkness and Spider-Man, this is an ultimately disappointing effort.

■ One of the greatest and most influential writers for over 50 years sadly passed away on Sunday June 23, aged 87.

A celebrated novelist, short story writer, and screenwriter, Richard Matheson created a number of classic stories, whether it was fantasy, scifi, or horror, leaving a deep impression on a number of writers and film-makers, including Stephen King, Joe Dante, John Landis, John Carpenter, Roger Corman and Tobe Hooper.

Mr Matheson's success began early, when his short stories and poems were accepted and shown when he was still a child, but his professional debut occured in 1950 when his short story Born Of Man And Woman? was published in The Magazine Of FantasyAnd Science Fiction, leading to numerous stories being eagerly snapped up throughout the 1950s.

Mr Matheson's first foray into films, The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957) (*****), where he adapted his own novel, deservedly became one of the landmark sci-fi movies of all-time, and its combination of first-rate writing, intelligent direction, and superb special effects sent the genre down an exciting new path.

Mr Matheson did write occasionally for TV during this period (Now Is Tomorrow - 1958 / Wanted : Dead Or Alive - 1959 / Have Gun - Will Travel 1960 / Cheyenne - 1960), and one of his stories was used for the Studio 57 series (Young Couples Only - 1955), but cinematically he found major success teaming up with independent movie mogul Roger Corman.

Beginning with House Of Usher (1960) (****), one of Corman's best directorial efforts (and the first of his long run of Edgar Allen Poe adaptations), Mr Matheson gave Corman's projects added texture, weight, and wit, allowing the filmmaker to produce some of his most atmospheric creations.

Master Of The World (1961) (***½), an under-rated adventure taken from two Jules Verne novels and starring Vincent Price and Charles Bronson, was followed by The Pit And The Pendulum (1961) (****), probably Corman's most famous Poe film, and contains one of filmdom's most well-known props.

A film that is criminally underseen is Night Of The Eagle (1962) (****), also known as Burn, Witch, Burn, a genuinely creepy outing and definitely had an influence on John Schlesinger's The Believers (1987), and was paid homage to in the Tim Burton spoof Dark Shadows (2012).

Mr Matheson continued to write for TV, including series such as Lawman (1962-63, 3 episodes), Combat (1962, 1 episode), The Alfred Hitchcock Hour (1962-63, 2 episodes), The Twilight Zone (1959-64, 16 episodes), and Star Trek (1966, 1 episode).

His pairing with Roger Corman continued and still proved very successful, with such highly entertaining entries such as Tales Of Terror (1962) (***½), starring Vincent Price and Peter Lorre, The Raven (1963) (***½), again with Price and Lorre, and The Comedy Of Terrors (1963) (***½), the last being directed by the wonderful Jacques Tourneur.

Mr Matheson's novel I Am Legend was given its first movie incarnation in 1964 with The Last Man On Earth (****), starring Vincent Price, and although he was unhappy with the final result, it is a stark, effective piece,

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. MAN OF STEEL. 2. DESPICABLE ME 2.

3. MONSTERS UNIVERSITY. 4. WORLD WAR Z. 5. THE GREAT GATSBY. 6. FAST AND FURIOUS 6.

7. THE INTERNSHIP. 8. EPIC. 9. AFTER EARTH. 10. JATT & JULIET 2.

NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: JULY 4: A GUN IN EACH HAND, REALITY, THE LONE RANGER, THE MAN OF TAI CHI, WE STEAL SECRETS, NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: THE AUDIENCE. JULY 11: MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, PACIFIC RIM, THE HEAT.

● Richard Matheson and it is still the best of all the screen versions (so far).

After adapting his novel The Young Warriors (1967) for the big screen, Mr Matheson wrote the wildly suspenseful Hammer film The Devil Rides Out (1968) (****), based on the Dennis Wheatley novel and starring Christopher Lee, as well as De Sade (1969), directed by Cy Endfield (Zulu).

A prolific stream of projects followed, including The Omega Man (1971) (**), the second adaptation of I Am Legend; Duel (1971) (****½), directed by a very young Steven Spielberg; Night Gallery TV series (1971-72, 7 episodes); The Night Stalker (1972) and The Night Strangler (1973) (both ****), starring Darren McGavin; The Legend Of Hell House (1973) (***½); Dracula (1974); Trilogy Of Terror (1975) (***1/2); Dead Of Night (1977); The Martian Chronicles (1980) (**½); Somewhere In Time (1980) (**½); Twilight Zone : The Movie (1983) (***); Jaws 3 (1983) (**); The New Twilight Zone (1986, 2 episodes); Steven Spielberg's big budget TV series Amazing Stories (1986-87) (***); What Dreams May Come (1998) (***), based on his novel and strikingly directed by New Zealander Vincent Ward; Stir Of Echoes (1999) (***½), adapted from Matheson's novel by David Koepp, and the source material seemed to influence M Night Shyamalan's similarly themed The Sixth Sense (1999); Masters Of Horror TV series (2005 - Dance Of The Dead, directed by Tobe Hooper) (***½); and I Am Legend (2007) (***), the third movie version of Mr Matheson's highly regarded novel, which is surprisingly impressive in its first half, but unfortunately falls away in the second.

Mr Matheson's 1986 Twilight Zone episode Button, Button was adapted and expanded by director Richard Kelly (Donnie Darko) for his 2009 sci-fi/thriller The Box (***½); the ever-popular Family Guy TV series used his short story for the 2010 episode The Splendid Source; and another short story, Steel, was the inspiration for Real Steel (2011), a sci-fi/action film starring Hugh Jackman.

Mr Matheson clearly showed that strong, intelligent writing was not just confined to Oscar-winning dramas and historical epics, and that true imagination and originality offered in genre films lead to noticeable influences on the mainstream movie-making world.

Mr Matheson left a unique stamp on millions of movie-goers, TV viewers, and readers, and will remain a remarkable treasure forever more.

- Aaron Rourke

THE DVD TOP RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. CLOUD ATLAS [Drama/Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant, Jim Broadbent].

2. BROKEN CITY [Crime/Drama/ Russell Crowe, Mark Wahlberg].

3. THE LAST STAND [Action/Arnold Schwarzenegger, Peter Stormare].

4. FLIGHT [Drama/Denzel Washington, Bruce Greenwood, Kelly Reilly].

5. SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK [Drama/Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Jackie Weaver].

6. GREAT EXPECTATIONS [Drama/ Helena Bonham-Carter, Ralph Fiennes].

7. PARANORMAN [Animated/Fantasy/Horror/Sam Fell, Chris Butler].

8. THE PAPERBOY [Drama/Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, John Cusack].

9. LINCOLN [Drama/Historical/ Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones].

10. DJANGO UNCHAINED [Western/ Drama/Christoph Waltz, Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio].

Also: ROMAN POLANSKI: A FILM MEMOIR, THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey, SIDE EFFECTS, BEAUTIFUL CREATURES, HANSEL & GRETEL: WITCH HUNTERS, LIFE OF PI, AMOUR, THE IMPOSSIBLE, ANNA KARENINA, JACK REACHER. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: ZERO DARK THIRTY [Drama/Thriller/ Jessica Chastain, James Gandolfini].

TOWER BLOCK [Action/Thriller/ Sheridan Smith, Ralph Brown].

OZ: THE GREAT AND POWERFUL [Fantasy/Adventure/James Franco, Mila Kunis].

MAMA [Horror/Jessica Chastain].

21 AND OVER [Comedy/Justin Chon, Miles Teller].

COMING & GOING [Comedy/Sasha Alexander, Rhys Darby].

MIDNIGHT STALLION [Family/Adventure/Kris Kristofferson].

NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: RESISTANCE [2011/War/Drama/ Michael Sheen, Andrea Riseborough].

NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: ENDEAVOUR: The Complete First Series.

ANDRE RIEU: RIEU ROYALE. JIMMY PAGE & ROBERT PLANT: Travelers of Time and Space.

WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMEONE DIES [Drama/TV Series]. ● Turn To Page 103

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - Page 97

Observer Showbiz SHOWS ■ Sherbrooke Theatre Company: Agatha Crispie (Written and directed by Cenarth Fox) July 26 - August 10 at 8.15pm, Sunday at 5.15pm at the Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Road, Doncaster. Tickets: $25/$23. Bookings: 1300 650 209 www.sherbrooketc.org.au ■ Frankston Theatre Group: Eric's Homecoming (Written and directed by Roy Thompson) July 26 - August 4 at the Mount Eliza Community Centre, Canadian Bay Road, Mount Eliza.

Tickets: $26.50/$24.50. Bookings: 1300 665 www.frankstontheatregroup.org.au ■ Peridot Theatre Inc: The Wisdom of Eve August 9 - 24 at 8.00pm, August 11, 17 at 2.15pm and August 18 at 4.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Road, Mount Waverley. Director: Annette deBoer. Tickets: $23/$20. Bookings: 1300 138 645 or email peridotboxoffice@yahoo.com.au ■ The Basin Theatre Group: Kid Stakes (by Ray Lawler) August 16 - September 8 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Road, The Basin. Director: Christine Grant. Tickets: $25 all performances. Book online at www.thebasintheatre.org.au or call 1300 784 668.

■ Cardinia Performing Arts Company (CPAC): Oliver August 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31 at 8.00pm, Sun. 2.00pm, Thurs. 7.00pm at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham. Director: Lee Moulton. Bookings: 0407 090 354 or www.trybooking.com

AUDITIONS ■ MLOC Productions: The Producers Auditions: July 11, 13. Dance Audition July 14. Director at the Parkdale Church of Christ, 174 Como Parade, Parkdale. Jane Court; Musical Director: Ian Nisbet; Choreographer: Keir Jasper. Audition bookings by appointment: www.mloc.org.au or 9589 4912.

■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Urinetown the Musical July 10 - 15 at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, Corner Melbourne Road and Electra Street, Williamstown.

Director: Anna Marinelli; Musical Director: Malcolm Fawcett; Choreographer: Carla White. Audition bookings: 1300 881 545.

■ Williamstown Little Theatre: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum August 24, 25. Director: Barbara Hughes; Musical Director: Janet Provan; Choreographer: Jenny VincentGreen. Audition bookings: 9397 3054.

Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

Melbourne

Observer

‘BUGSY MALONE’ AT CRAN. SHOWS ■ Peoples Playhoyuse: Bugsey Malone Until July 11 at the Cranbourne Community Theatre, Brunt Street, Cranbourne. Director: Michelle Thomas: Musical Director: Malcom Huddle; Choreographer: Katrina Flaherty. Bookings: 0402 197390 or www.peoplesplayhouse.asn.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Beauty Queen of Leenane (by Martin McDonagh) Until July 13 at 2 Albert Street, Williamstown. Director: Ellis Ebell. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9885 9678 www.wlt.org.au ■ Altona City Theatre: Spring Awakening: A New Musical Until July 20 at the Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona.

Bookings: www.altonacitytheatre.com.au or 0425 705 550.

■ ARC Theatre: Singin' in the Rain July 10, 11, 12, 13 at 8.00pm and July 13 at 2.00pm at the Banyule Theatre, 10 Buckingham Drive, Heidelberg. Director: Rowena Brown; Musical Director: Rebecca Dupuy-Purcell; Choreographer: Lisa Maree David. Tickets: $32/$29. $29 all matinee tix. Bookings: info@arc-theatre.com or www.arc-theatre.com. Enquiries: 0403 207 778.

■ Encore Theatre Company: The Club (by David Williamson) July 12 - 27 at the Clayton Community Centre Theatrette, Corner Cooke Street and Centre Road, Clayton. Director: Keith Hutton.

Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 739 099 (9am-9pm) www.encoretheatre.com.au ■ The Fabulous Nobodys: That Awkward Moment (by Hannah Bird) Until July 12 at Vermont Secondary College, 27-63 Morack Road, Vermont. Director: Tony Bird. Tickets: $20. Bookings: 0400 039215 or fabulousnobodys@gmail.com ■ PLOS Musical Productions: Little Shop of Horrors July 19, 20, 25, 26 at 8.00pm, July 21, 27 at 2.00pm at the Frankston Arts Centre. Director: Danny Ginsberg; Musical Director: Sue Fletcher; Choreographer: Steve Rostron. Bookings: 9784 1060. www.plos.asn.au ■ Mornington CEF Players: Songs for a New World July 19 - 28 at the Bellamy Hall, Albert Street, Mornington. Directors: Daniel Jow and Tim Blencowe. Tickets: $22/$18/$14. Bookings: 0467 185 176 or email info@cefplayers.com.au

Blithe Spirit

● Final rehearsals for Blithe Spirit are under the watchful eyes of the production team: Wendy Drowley (Director), Melanie Belcher (Stage Manager) and Sheelagh Belton (Assistant Stage Manager).

Photo: David Belton ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company presents Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit from July 11-27 at 36 Turnham Ave, Rosanna, under the direction of Wendy Drowley.

Blithe Spirit was first seen in the West End of London in 1941, creating a new long-run record for non-musical British plays of 1997 performances.

It also did well on Broadway later that year, running for 657 performances.

Coward adapted the play for film in 1945, starring Rex Harrison and Margaret Rutherford, and directed a musical adaptation, High Spirits, on Broadway in 1964.

It was also adapted for television in the 1950s and 1960s and for radio. The play enjoyed several West End and Broadway revivals in the 1970s and 1980s and was revived again in London in 2004 and 2011.

Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9457 4117 or www.htc.org

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 98 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013 Melbourne

Observer

Lovatts Crossword No 39 Across

Across

1. Difficulty (of assignment) 6. Put oil on 11. Balance out 15. Staff members 20. Scruff (of neck) 21. Rock music style, ... metal 22. Spy, ... Hari 23. See 92ac 25. Favour 26. Scours 27. Gowns 29. Lull 32. Hairless 34. Exclusive English school 36. Recline (3,4) 39. Boot-shaped country 41. Basil sauce for pasta 43. Din 46. Goes by horse 48. Strong point 49. Chief 51. ... & ahs 52. Catalogues 55. Disfigure 56. Captures (criminal) 59. Jemima Goldsmith's ex, ... Khan 61. The A of AM 62. Thaw 63. Sports award 64. Disburdens 67. Windpipe 68. Thorny 70. Japanese religion 71. Barbaric 72. Deep wounds 73. Alleged assassin, Lee Harvey ...

74. Roman garments 75. Glow with (health) 77. Distend 78. Introduction (4-2) 79. Philippines capital 82. Invaded 86. Snooker foul 87. Ali ... & The 40 Thieves 89. Remunerates too little 92 & 23ac. Knuckle of veal stew (4,5) 94. Extreme 96. Scan 98. Animal enclosure 100. Laughing scavenger 101. Company emblem 103. Cogwheel 105. Undersized 106. Cultural symbol 108. Loathsome 111. Furtive glance 112. Moon shape 114. Surround 116. Volcanic flow 119. Early Peruvian 120. Cummerbund 121. Fair-haired lady, ... blonde 123. Imminent 124. Pre-dinner snack, ... d'oeuvre 125. Stripped 126. Strain 127. Bears (costs) 130. Post-graduate business degree (1,1,1) 131. Unrelenting 135. Burglary 138. Short skirt 139. Entertainer, ... Harris 141. Alternate, every ...

144. Unwanted plant 146. Donkey 147. Cure 148. Pole 149. Deciduous trees 150. Or near offer (1,1,1) 151. Jane Austen novel 152. Bomb hole 153. London's ... Park 155. Swirl 157. Small hound 158. ... Eildon 160. Hawaiian greeting 161. Wear away 162. Lifeless 163. Tick over 165. Mediocre (2-3) 166. Massage 167. Play on words

168. Remove errors from 169. Automobiles 171. Addis ..., Ethiopia 172. WWII German sub (1-4) 175. Yawns 176. Baghdad is there 179. From Sydney or Perth 180. Rope-making fibre 182. Head cook 184. Take no notice of 185. Flesh of fruit 186. Jet-bubble bath 188. Quickly (1,1,1,1) 189. Fulfilled (demand) 190. Source 191. Mother sheep 193. Mentally sound 194. Unhappily 196. Brave man 197. Wild goat 198. Waters (garden) 200. Colleges 205. Much ... About Nothing 207. Arrange in print 210. Tormented by nightmares (3-6) 211. Chattering idly 212. Identical sibling 213. Not stereo 214. Crack army force (1,1,1) 216. Infatuated, ... over heels 218. ... & twos 219. Korean karate, tae ... do 220. Female boarding house proprietor 224. Songwriter 227. The M of YMCA (3'1) 229. Mexican currency 230. Judge 231. Make speech 232. ... & evens 233. Scamps 235. Reception host 237. Pant 239. Actress, ... Russo 241. Inuit canoe 244. Type of marble 246. Elvis Presley's daughter (4,5) 249. Globes 252. Excursions 254. One or the other 256. Latter-day Saint 258. Consolation 259. Inflexible 260. Tomato sauce 263. Possessor 264. Cowardly 265. Liquid units, fluid ...

267. Say from memory 270. Illusion 271. Necessitates 272. Acorn bearer (3,4) 273. Cut of steak 274. Follows orders 277. Wander 279. Native of Aberdeen or Inverness 281. Festivities 284. Fragrant flower 286. Prompted (actor) 288. Was expert (in) 292. You 294. Hereditary unit 295. Nervous 298. Dressmaker 300. Unnourished 301. Valuable possession 303. Assortment 306. Concert venue, ... Square Garden 308. Actress, Miranda ...

309. Overtake 311. Continue doggedly 314. Secret store 315. Blows up 316. Suspect's excuses 317. Native American tent 318. More than half 319. Join register 320. Nevada city 321. Recently married folk 322. Dissertation 323. Moaned wearily 324. Famous (4-5)

Down

Down

1. Cycling's ... de France 142. Stewardesses 2. Cremation vessels 143. Thefts 3. Nun's attire 145. Wear best clothes (5,2) 4. Outdo 151. Magic potions 5. Snooty person 154. First appearance 6. Granny Smiths or pippins 156. Downward distance 7. Dorks 159. Also titled (1,1,1) 8. Ahead (2,5) 164. Meadow (poetic) 9. Queen's ceremonial chair 169. Manages 10. Outlaw 170. The Constant Gardener actor, ...

11. Pearl-bearer Fiennes 12. Conifer (3,4) 173. Expresses sorrow over 174. ... speak louder than words 13. Lodge firmly 177. Stands on hind legs 14. Samples 178. Search 15. Deserve 181. Overturned 16. Artist, ... Picasso 183. Stiffly 17. Beginning 187. Study of body tissue 18. Mediterranean volcano 192. Heftier 19. Unwell 195. Myths 24. Salt Lake City state 199. Become rusty 28. Dublin republic 201. Cries like crow 30. Test 202. Pig noise 31. Cocktail, ... colada 203. Devonshire tea cake 33. Rosebush pests 204. Holy book 35. Hollywood's movie accolades 206. Lukewarm 37. Note well, nota ...

207. Vagrant 38. Havana is there 208. Cupid 40. Tokyo Bay port city 209.

Former lovers 42. Ringworm 213. Move listlessly 44. Available (2,4) 215. Pale-looking 45. Screen legend, ... Loren 217. Study table 47. Islands 221. Bus terminus 48. Brown skin marks 222. Sufficient 49. Rocket, guided ...

223. Louts 50. Ratty 224.

Shakespearean king 53. Experienced hand 225.

Horse-taming display 54. Visual symbolism 226. Computer input device (1,1-3) 57. Moving onwards 228. Removes surgically 58. Sleighs 234. Pleasant tasting 60. Crazier 236. Meal courses 63. Perplex 238.

Chopping tool 65. 12 o'clock 240.

Persona ... grata 66. Long narrative 242.

Worshipping 68. Brazilian soccer great 243. Pilot's emergency aid, ... seat 69. Fertile soil 245. Pest 76. Encroachments 247. Annoying 79. Inflatable vest, ... west 248. Influence 80. Naked models 250. Bemuse 81. Ill-gotten cash, filthy ...

251.

Set free 83. Savoury jelly 253.

Ireland's ... Fein 84. Furnishing scheme 255.

Promissory notes (1,1,2) 85. Alsatian or labrador 257.

Porridge cereal 88. Booklets 258. Match before final 90. Household dirt 261. Comprehend (4,2) 91. Competent 262. Zoom 93. XVII 265.

Greatest in age 95. Pub drinks 266.

Opted 97. Schedules 268. Earth lumps 99. Antiquated 269. Rowing teams 100. Detect sound 275. Genuine, ... fide 102. Says yes to 276.

Snow monster 104. Land measures 278.

Concerning 107. Quoted 280.

Terminating 109. Alpaca relative 282. Long time 110. On an occasion 283.

Termites, white ...

111. Twosome 285.

Rope tangle 113. Horridly 287.

Hate 115. Goaded 289. Profane oaths 117. Throat-clearing noise 290. Declare to be true 118. Grain husks 291. High standards 121. Devotee 292. Ribbed 122. Stockpiled 293. Leg joint 127. Wooden peg 296. Written composition 128. Small streak 297. Trap 129. Backpackers' accommodation 299. Merit (5,6) 302. Steeple top 132. Insistently 304. Horrify 133. Directed 305. From Athens 134. Vestige 306. Stingy 135. Strictness 307. Sketched 136. Capital of Pakistan 308. On Her Majesty's Service 137. Casual (remark) (1,1,1,1) 138. Indian prince 310. Pack (cargo) 140. Large fruit bat (6,3) 312. News 141. Bone specialist 313. Sea bird

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July y, y 10, , 2013 - Page g 99

Solution on Page g 92

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Page 100 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Observer Showbiz

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria

MORE WOMEN ON MELB. RADIO GIRLS GET A GO OVER THE MID-YEAR BREAK

Pat stands in overnight

● Australian Radio History by Bruce Carty ■ It is probably unwise for an author to give his radio history book to a newspaper editor for review.

Bruce Carty has just received his 94-page book from the printers. It includes a few early radio press ads, a 2UE top 40 chart, various logos, trivia and Australian radio timelines.

It also lists ‘Radio Pioneers of Australia’, and Carty’s choice of the eight Victorians are Sidney Neuman, Ross Hull, the Holst Brothers, Oliver Nilsen, Donald McDonald, Harry Fuller, Morris Israel and Ronald Hipwell.

I would have thought it impossible to list Victorian pioneers without reference to Norman Banks, Dave Worall and Eddie Balmer.

Carty’s book includes random chapters on radio nostalgia, the Wireless Institute, an outside broadcast by 2UW in 1932, and four pages about Queensland station 4CM. There are some early music charts, and a state-by-state listing of early radio stations.

Carty’s lists wrongly state that Derryn Hinch was involved in 3AK-GTV9 broadcasts in 1961. Hinch was 17 in that year, and did not arrive in Australia until 1963.

The book wrongly states Gippsland radio station 3GV (previously 3TR) was named after Goulburn and Latrobe Valley. The Goulburn is a long way from Gippsland.

Carty wrongly states the 3MP licence was bought by 2GB. The licence was always held by Pacific Star Network.

The book wrongly claims media personality Denise Drysdale started her career at Warragul radio station 3UL. Denise started work as a youngster at Channel 9 in the late 1950s.

If this chain of errors can be found in a cursory examination of the self-published book, I hold fears for accuracy of rest of the publication. The author can be contacted at bruce.carty@ bigpond.com - Ash Long

r Observbei z Show

Wednesday, July 10 ■ US actor Fred Gwynne was born in New York in 1926. He died aged 86 in 1993.

WA politician Wilson Tickey is 78 (1935).

Australian singer Digger Revell was born as Gary Hildred in Dubbo in 1943 (70).

Comedian Adam Hills is 43 (1970). Best known for ABC work.

● Libbi Gorr ■ The mid-year break, when Melbourne radio regulars go for a fortnight’s winter holiday, has seen a number of women broadcasters come to the fore.

George McEncroe brought humour to the 774 ABC early afternoon timeslot, replacing Richard Stubbs who treats his microphone as if he were addressing a crowded hall.

Alternatively, McEncroe has realised that the psychology of 21st century talkback radio is about communicating with ONE listener, who can eavesdrop on other calls.

Stubbs addresses his audience as “Ladies and Gentlemen”, whilst McEncroe treated conversations with sensitivity and without contrived one-liners.

Dee Dee, Grubby at 3AW

● Seeing Eye Dogs made a visit to 3AW last week ■ Dee Dee Dunleavy and ■ Just about everyone loves Grubby Stubbs did an excel- Melbourne radio personality lent job, whilst standing in for Jane Holmes ... but is anyone Denis Walter in the 3AW af- helping her? ternoon show.

Jane appears of the Neil Their coverage of stories was Mitchell program (8.30amcrisp, had the right amount of Noon, weekdays, 3AW), but humour, and came across as lis- also co-hosts Magic 1278 tener-friendly. breakfast with Kevin John.

The pair should be used more Magic is currently broadon the Fairfax Radio Net- casting a promotion where Jane work. and Kevin try to joke about put■ Fans who have followed Dee ting chewing gum on the soles Dee’s work on Gold and Fox of shoes, to keep people atwill be interested that her daugh- tached to the footpath.

Is the best gag they can ter Bonnie celebrated her 18th showcase? If so, it is no wonder birthday on Saturday. the audience has dropped by up to half in some demographics.

Jane Holmes loses magic

Behind bars

● Jane Holmes

■ 3CR is broadcasting from behind prison bars this week.

Beyond The Bars ,Australia's only live prison broadcast, came from the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre (Deer Park) and Barwon Prison (Lara) this week. Other shows this week will come from Fulham (Sale), Loddon (Castlemaine), Port Phillip (Laverton). Marngoneet (Lara).

★ ● Dee Dee Dunleavy

Gary Shearston, respected singer/songwriter, passed away at Armidale Hospital after suffering a stroke at his home near Tenterfield.

● Pat Panetta ■ It was refreshing to hear the warm Pat Panetta standing in for Andrew McLaren on 3AW’s Australia Overnight program last week.

Pat’s broadcasting pedigree includes The Circle TV program on Channel 10, 3GG Gippsland, Geelong’s K-Rock and Bay FM, plus 96.5FM Perth, Coast FM WA, Star FM, and North West Radio.

It was disappointing to hear panel operator Mark Petkovic still playing ‘whip’ sound-effects that he introduced when he and Andrew took over from Keith McGowan two years ago this month.

Golden Days meeting time ■ The next public and members’ meeting of Golden Days Radio will be held on Wednesday, August 21 at the Uniting Church Hall, 497 Centre Rd, Bentleigh. The meeting commences at 10am.

At the conclusion of the meeting there will be a morning tea and this will be a chance meet presenters.

Melbourne

Observer

On This Day Thursday, July 11

Friday, July 12

Saturday, July 13

Sunday, July 14

■ Former Australian Prime Minister Gough Whitlam is 97 (1916). He was born in Kew. English comic actor Reg Varney was born in London in 1916. He died aged 92 in 2008.

Sydney radio man Ron Casey was born in 1929 (85).

Comedian Mick Molloy is 47 (1966).

■ Military hero Ed-ward ‘Weary’ Dunlop was born in Wangaratta in 1907.

He died aged 85 in 1993.

American comedian Milton Berle was born in 1908. He died aged 93 in 2002.

Australian writer Phillip Adams was born in Maryborough, Vic., in 1939 (74).

■ American actor Bob Crane, of Hogan’s heroes fame, was born in 1928.

He died aged 49 in 1978.

English stage and film actor Patrick Stewart is 73.

American actor Harrison Ford was born in Chicago in 1942 (71).

He is married to Callista Flockhart.

■ English actor TerryThomas (Thomas Terry Hoare-Stevens) was born in London in 1911. He died aged 78 in 1990.

Us folk singer Woody Guthrie was born in 1912. He died aged 55 in 1967.

Australian actor John Wood was born in Melbourne in 1946 (67). He starred in Blue Heelers.

Monday, July 15 ■ Dutch painter Rembrandt (Haremensz Van Rijn) was born in Holland in 1606. He died aged 63 in 1669.

American singer Linda Ronstadt was born in Tucson, Arizona, in 1946 (67).

Politician Peter Reith is 64 (1949).

Actress Joy Smithers is 50 (1963). Happy half-century Joy

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

Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au

Tuesday, July 16 ■ Actress Barbara Stanwyck (Ruby Stevens) was born in New York in 1907. She died aged 82 in 1990.

US actress Ginger Rogers (Virginia Mcmath) was born in 1911. She died aged 83 in 1995.

TV presenter Don Burke was born in 1947 (66).

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - Page 101

Healthy Living

Page 102 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Wednesday - Geelong/Mildura, Thursday - Shepparton/Ballarat, Friday - Maryborough/Melton, Saturday - Bendigo, Sunday - Maryborough, Monday - Warragul, Tuesday - Ararat.

Horses To Follow ■ Remember Jasper, Indulgent, Military Precision, Sierra Tiavon, Classic Grin, McRita, Lucky Metro, Artistic Wings, Ballandella Baby, Atego Lilly.

Stable double at Echuca ■ Rochester's Mark Thompson has enjoyed a great run with his pacers, especially over the past decade or so and snared a stable double at his local track Echuca on Tuesday July 2, with Lies and Drunken Desire winning their respective races with stable reinsperson Ellen Tormey in the sulky.

Total Truth/Karamea Toastime filly Lies who was an eye catching second on debut at Kilmore a week earlier, lived up to that run when a convincing victor of the Biggest Blokes BBQ Here 14 October 2-Y-0 Pace over 1755 metres.

Starting from inside the second line, Lies a half sister to champion mare Jadah Rose (Totally Ruthless) and Karalta Shine (Forrest Skipper) followed the poleline leader Pushinupdaisies, before moving away from the markers to race in the open for the final circuit.

Cruising to the front on the home turn, Lies had little difficulty in holding off all challengers, scoring by 6.5 metres in advance of Devil Dust (three back the markers - three wide home turn) and Azumah The Boomer which trailed the runner up on the final bend. The mile rate 2-00.2.

Four year old Real Desire/Zora Paree gelding Drunken Desire (gate two on the second line) moved to be one/one mid-race, before surging clear on the home turn in defeating Cullen Hanover which led from the pole before taking a trail on Spiral Jet, with Ballandella Baby third after facing the breeze and crossing to the front in the last lap.

A winner of nine races from 36 outings, Drunken Desire returned a mile rate of 2-01.3.

Cause for concern ■ Elmore trainer Keith Cotchin combined with son Jake to land a re-run of the Echuca Moama Storage Pace for C1 class over 1755 metres at Echuca with honest 5-Y-0 Dream Away/La Meriah gelding The Numbers Man, but not before giving his supporters cause for concern.

Leading out on the first occasion from gate two, the field came to a sudden halt after a nasty fall on the first turn involving both Hangi and Another Jay Jay. Again leading out on the second occasion, The Numbers Man led throughout in defeating Saint Liliana along the sprint lane by a head after trailing from the pole in a rate of 2-00.2, with Statelyness (one/one - three wide last lap) third.

Punters paid $30.20 ■ Punters were left lamenting at Echuca when 5-Y-0 Artesian/Troubleinthedesert gelding Artesian Bore greeted the judge in the Moama Bowling Club Pace for C0 class over 2160 metres paying Supertab odds of $30.20.

Trained at Sebastian by Clem Stanaway, Artesian Bore which had been placed only three times in 33 previous outings possied three back along the markers from the pole, with the well backed Maharaja Lombo leading from gate three.

Eased away from the inside by Chris Alford to be three wide on the final bend, Artesian Bore finished best to register a head victory in 2-01.3 over Lifelong Voyage which faced the breeze from the bell, with Maharaja Lombo weakening for third 4.2 metres away.

SUPER SERIES AT TABCORP PARK ■ A total of $850,000 in stakes was up for grabs at Tabcorp Park Melton over two nights of racing last weekend, with the running of the Empire Stallions Vicbred Super Series for two, three and four year olds.

It was the Trotters Finals that took place on Friday July 6, with five $50,000 Finals over 2240 metres.

Euroa trainer-driver David Jack snared the Two Year Old Colts & Geldings Final with bold front runner Im Stately, a colt by Majestic Son from Shadows.

Beginning brilliantly to lead from gate four, Im Stately toyed with his rivals, scoring by 31 metres over Miracle which did all the chasing, with Spidergrace a further 10.7 metres away in third place. The mile rate 2-01.9. ★ The real Blitzthemcalder appeared to take the Three Year Old Colts & Geldings Final for Lara trainer Ross Payne and Bolinda based reinsman Chris Alford in a rate of 1-59.6.

Retaining the inside running from the pole, Blitzthemcalder a Metropolitan/Like A Calder colt made a one act affair of the race, leading throughout to greet the judge 24.4 metres in advance of last season's Redwood winner Sun Of Sonoko from last racing for the bell, with Soho Ledger (three back the markers) 10.7 metres back in third place. ★ Spidergirl, daughter of Yankee Spider and Lunar Landing, did similar in the Three Year Old Fillies Final.

Trained by David Aiken at Avenel, Spidergirl with Chris Alford in the sulky, led throughout from the pole to blitz her rivals, accounting for Frances Annie (four back the markers) by 42.6 metres, with Fiftyshadesofbrown 1.1 metres away third after trailing the winner. The mile rate 2-00.5. ★ Tennotrump/Box Brownie gelding Brunelleschi, a horse with a tremendous future ahead of him, was ultra impressive in the Four Year Old Final in a rate of 2-01.6.

Trained and driven by Amy Tubbs from Bacchus Marsh, Brunelleschi starting from gate three on the second line possied midfield in the moving line, before going forward to park outside the poleline leader Zedalite racing for the bell.

Pouring on the pressure

Baker’s Delight

Harness Racing

At the head of affairs

Melbourne

Observer

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

approaching the home turn, Brunelleschi drew clear over the concluding stages to register a 8.5 metre margin over Sundons Promise which trailed after a failed attempt to lead from gate three, with Shes An Image (three back the markers) third. ★ Lightly raced Bacardi Lindy/All Finesse filly Claudys Princess snared the Two Year Old Fillies Final, much to the delight of Kyabram trainer Graham Lyon and reinsman Gavin Lang.

Settling mid-field from inside the second line, Claudys Princess was able to follow the Sydney hope Verbier three wide at the bell, before dropping into a one/one spot approaching the home turn.

Taken wide on straightening, Claudys Princess finished determinedly to score from Edge Hill along the sprint lane after trailing the pacemaker and third placegetter Four Lillies. The margins being 9.2 metres by .4 metres in a mile rate of 2-06.5. ★ Saturday featured six Pacing Finals over 2240 metres with the rain pelting down from race one putting a dampener on the evening, with all events from race three having to be put back a race due to the mobile barrier losing traction.

Art Major/Secret Life colt Major Secret was the victor of The Two Year Old Colts & Geldings Final for Ballarat co-trainers Emma Stewart and Clayton Tonkin.

Driven by Daryl Douglas, Major Secret from gate two enjoyed a cosy passage trailing the leader Business In Motion, before using the sprint lane to defeat the Kiwi Messini (three wide last lap) by 1.3 metres in a rate of 1-58.2, with Business In Motion a game third after working to the front from gate six, then being kept honest by the roughie Master Mach Manus.

Quality Bettors Delight/Machane mare La Machane snared the Four Year Old Mares Final for Hopetoun Park pair Ross and Greg Sugars.

Given a cosy passage three back along the markers after both Real Bonus (gate two), Beauty Secret outside her and Blazeaway Macray three wide from outside the front row all vied for the front running, La Machane was able to enjoy a comfortable passage.

Using the sprint lane, La Machane dashed home to blouse Real Bonus by a nose in a tricky finish, with Nats Survival which trailed the front runner 5.7 metres away third. The mile rate 1-58.8. ★ Ever reliable Bettors Delight/Red Hot Rita filly Im Smouldering captured the Three Year Old Fillies Final in a rate of 1-58.9.

Driven by Gavin Lang for Doreen trainer John Yeomans, Im Smouldering starting from gate four on the second line settled five back in the moving line, with Courageousnquick being driven desperately from gate five to lead on the first turn.

Moving forward three wide at the bell, Im Smouldering raced wide for the remainder of the journey, before joining the leaders on entering the straight.

Giving her all, Im Smouldering drew away over the concluding stages to defeat Getya Wings Out along the sprint lane from a mile back by 10 metres, with Magic Moment Lombo (three back the markers) third.

Tune in ■ You can listen to Len Baker on Harness Review, 8pm10pm, on 97.9 FM, which streams on 979fm.com.au

■ In-form Blissful Hall/Janbob gelding Youranut provided both Ross and Greg Sugars with two big winners on the night by taking the Four Year Old Entires & Geldings Final.

Leading out from gate two, Youranut was always coasting at the head of affairs and kicked away on turning to record an easy 4.1 metre victory over Restrepo which trailed from the pole, registering a rate of 1-58.4. Scruffy Major (three back the markers) finished a fast finishing third.

Race of the night ■ The race of the night was the Three Year Old Colts & Geldings Final which featured Guaranteed and Border Control doing battle from outside the second line barrier positions, with Guaranteed the victor in a mile rate of 1-59.4.

Trained by Emma Stewart and Clayton Tonkin, Guaranteed driven by Gavin Lang settled ahead of Border Control, with Major Calypso leading from gate two.

Gavin Lang was first to make a move, sending Guaranteed forward mid-race to park in the open, before assuming control hitting the back straight on the final occasion.

Mark Purdon was off and running at the bell with Border Control, but was trapped wide for the remainder of the journey, with Guaranteed hanging away from the markers approaching the home turn forcing Border Control even wider.

In a thrilling finish, Guaranteed prevailed by a nose in 1-59.4, with the rank outsider Reign Of Pain running the race of his by using the sprint lane for third from three back the markers last lap.

Claim on major prize ■ The Two Year Old Fillies Final was equally as exciting with border hopper Distant Memory claiming the major prize.

A daughter of the now defunct Troublemaker from Macrandra trained and driven by Bill Trembath from Leeton, Distant Memory from gate two was unable to head of the unbeaten Mindarie Priddy inside her, with things getting very tight on the first turn.

Angling to trail the hot favourite, Distant Memory received a sweet trip as Manellira, a stablemate of the pacemaker, moved outside her from mid-field racing for the bell.

When Mindarie Priddy raced clear on straightening, she appeared the likely winner, however Distant Memory sprouted wings along the sprint lane to blouse her by a half head in another tricky finish, with Sandy Kay third after trailing the pair. The mile rate 2-02.

Double at Charlton ■ The successful Coimadai combination of Adam Kelly and Gavin Lang landed a double at Charlton, with a pair of three year olds - Doomed taking the Weir's Supa IGA St Arnaud Pace for C1 class over 2100 metres and Sapphire Swayze the St Arnaud Vicbred Platinum Country Series A (1st Heat) for C1 class over 1609 metres.

Doomed (Live Or Die/Rapparee) spent most of the race three back the markers from inside the second line, before being extricated to join the leaders Dam Lucky and Easton All Action three wide on the home turn.

Driven with vigour on straightening, Doomed proved too strong to register a 1.3 metre victory over Dam Lucky, with Smokinoff using the sprint lane for third after trailing the leader.

Sapphire Swayze (Union Guy/Bold Sapphire) was driven with extreme confidence to park in the open outside the pacemaker Kensington Palace.

Crossing to lead in the last lap, Sapphire Swayze cruised to the wire in a rate of 1-58.1, accounting for Kensington Palace by 4.5 metres, with Ruby Slippers third after trailing the runner up throughout. ● More on Page 103

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - Page 103

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 96

Top 10 Lists

BIG INCENTIVES FOR VICS ■ Racing Victoria is certainly giving budding horse owners a big chance at some outstanding prizemoney with the announcement of their VOBIS Gold System which has just started .

Premier Dr Denis Napthine announced the further enhancements to Victoria’s lucrative breeding and racing incentive scheme.

First of the main events with the Gold VOBIS is the VOBIS Gold Elvstroem Classic run at Swan Hill.

The new incentive scheme includes: ■ Extension of the Napthine Government’s commitment to subsidise 50 per cent of the VOBIS Gold nomination fee for the next two years.

■ Expansion of the exclusive VOBIS Gold Premier Race Series to include six three-year-old feature races alongside for two-year-old features; ■ 2013-14 VOBIS Gold Premier Race Series to offer $1.8 million in prizemoney and bonuses across 10 races – five in Melbourne, and five in country Victoria.

■ The addition of Ballarat and Wangaratta as hosts of VOBIS Gold Premier races alongside existing country racing hosts Swan Hill, Bendigo and Warrnambool; ■ Creation of a VOBIS Gold Premier race day at Flemington on April 5, 2014, with $210,000 VOBIS Gold Ingot (2 Y.O.) and $280,000 VOBIS Gold Stakes for three year-olds.

Together with the expansion of the Premier Race Series, the 2013-14 racing season will also see VOBIS Gold bonuses offered on more than 100 three-year-old races for the first time.

The $20,000 VOBIS Gold bonuses have been highly sought by this season’s two-year-old ownersfor the inaugural crop of nominated horseswho will remain eligible throughout their career for the one-off Governmentsubsidised entry fee of $ 1100 When fully operational, VOBIS Gold and its mother scheme Super VOBIS will see $ 18 million in bonuses and exclusive

Ted Ryan

prize money on offer across Victoria each year.

Chief Executive of Racing Victoria Bernie Saundry, said: “Thanks to the support of the Coalition Government, owners will continue to pay only $1100 to make their VOBIS Gold horse eligible not only for the Premier Race Series, but for lucrative bonuses right throughout its career, not just at two and three”.

Dr. Napthine said VOBIS Gold was already creating benefits for the Victorian breeding industry, particularly premiums being paid at yearling sales for VOBIS Gold eligible horses.

“The economic benefits to Victoria, including new job opportunities in rural areas, created by a growing breeding industry are enormous.”

The 2013-14 VOBIS Gold Premier Race Series is as follows: Two year-olds ■ $280,000 VOBIS Gold Rush (1000 metres) – Bendigo, March 15, 2014.

■ $210,000 VOBIS Gold Ingot (1200 metres) - Flemington, April 5, 2014.

■ $100,000 VOBIS Gold Strike (1000 metres-Fillies).

Warrnambool, April 29, 2014.

■ $160,000 VOBIS Gold Elvstroem Classic (1300 metres). Swan Hill, June 6, 2014.

Three-year-olds ■ $130,000 VOBIS Gold Stakes (1400 metres) – Ballarat, November 24, 2013.

■ $180,000 VOBIS

Gold Carat (1200 metres) – Caulfield, January 4, 2014.

■ $180,000 VOBIS Gold Star (1500 metres) – Moonee Valley, January 24, 2014.

■ $100,000 VOBIS Gold Stakes (1300 metres) - Wangaratta, March 2, 2014.

■ $280,000 VOBIS Gold Stakes (1600 metres) – Flemington April 5, 2014.

■ $180,000 VOBIS Gold Stakes (1800 metres) – Caulfield, July 26, 2014.

One trainer that is right behind the VOBIS Scheme is Cranbourne mentor, Robbie Griffiths who evidently won’t buy a yearling unless it’s VOBIS registered.

A smart move, considering the money on

■ VOBIS (Victorian Owners and Breeders Incentive Scheme) is a multi-million dollar program to boost prize money and bonuses for Victorian bred racehorses.

Super VOBIS is a world-leading incentive scheme designed to reward owners and breeders who invest in Victorian bloodstock.

With more than $18 million in bonuses available for Super VOBIS and VOBIS Gold qualified horses, connections have the chance to increase their hip pocket and maximise market interest in Victorian bred horses.

To help ensure an immediate return on investment for owners, a majority of Super VOBIS bonus races are targeted at TAB country race meetings, with bonuses of up to $10,000 available for two and three-year-old horses. There are also VOBIS bonuses of up to $30,000 available to horses competing on Victoria’s metropolitan tracks.

offer for an outlay of $1100.

The Government and Racing Victoria are to be congratulated, as it will certainly entice a lot more people to join our great racing industry.

Top day ■ I was invited to a top Network Lunch at Colombo’s Restaurant at Balwyn, where the guest

● Dr Denis Naptine, Premier

● Black Caviar Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 speaker was David More Than Ready, Taylor, one of the or a horse like Exceed part-owners of the and Excel.

He wouldn’t commighty mare, Black mit, but my money is Caviar.

David was invited on More Than by the owner of the res- Ready.

In all a great day, taurant, Bill Kurban, who put on a superb and one of our next lunch and the day was guests later in the racing season, I am tipping a big winner. be top veteran Lawrence of will jockey, Darren Arabia, as he is Gauci, who is a reguknown put on a show to lar at Colombo’s, bekeep the uuests amused sides yours truly. before David spoke.

Both were winners.

David went through the start of how he became involved and how his wife didn’t want to ■ I was enjoying a know about it. quiet ale at Club When Black Ringwood, checking Caviar kept winning, out the races at it was a different story. Warranmbool and He went on to say Sale, when a trotting that they were on the race came up at verge on scratching the Menagle in New mare in England be- South Wales.

I thought for a mocause she was defiment or two that I may nitely not right.

But her heart pulled have had too many I watched a trother through. He stated when race and the drivshe didn’t how to lose, ting were riding the trotand of having a great ers ters, evidently a novel temperament. way of running the race When asked who piloted by female ridshe might be mated ers/drivers. with, David said they This I haven’t seen have made a decision, for a long time. but wouldn’t go any furBack in the very ther. early days they did ride However he did say trotters and pacers, but that Fastnet Rock, to see it in this day and Commands and the age, was a bit extreme, English champion the action of the trotFrankel would not be ters, naturally was the same, but to see a the one.

I queried him jockey on top, whether it could be mesmerised me.

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ANDRE RIEU: RIEU ROYALE. - James Sherlock

More Sulky Snippets ■ Melton co-trainers Maree and John Caldow scored a surprise victory with Bacardi Lindy/ Which Chance gelding Quest Front in the Farewell Donald 3-Y-0 Trotters Handicap over 2100 metres at the St Arnaud fixture held at Charlton on Monday July 1.

In what was an impressive performance, Quest Front stepped cleanly from barrier two, only to be caught outside Lochaber which flew the tapes from barrier four.

Dropping down to follow the leader Russell Galleon which had taken over shortly after the start in the last lap, Quest Front eased away from the inside to join the pacemaker on the home turn, before finishing best to register a head victory in a rate of 2-07.4, with Lochaber third after moving three wide on turning.

■ Melton trainer David Manning snared the Logical Property Services Pace for C1 class over 2160 metres at Hamilton on Wednesday with ever reliable 5-Y-0 Our Sir Vancelot/Dillon Daffodill mare Dillon Daphne.

Driven as usual by Ararat's Mick Bellman fast closing in on 100 winners for the season, Dillon Daphne from the extreme draw spent most of the race with most of the field in front of her.

Commencing a forward move in the final circuit, Dillon Daphne although wide on the home turn, rattled home on straightening to score by 4.5 metres over Bohemian Lombo which led from the bell, with Glenburn Rock (one/one) third after joining the pacemaker Dills Rocket on the final bend.

■ Shepparton's Pat Pellegrino used the services of Chris Alford aboard 7-Y-0 Camcracker/ Malibu Lace gelding Whatacracker to land the Christies Welding Pace for C2 & C3 class over 2160 metres at Echuca on Tuesday.

Easily retaining the inside running from the pole, Whatacracker was never in any danger, coasting to the wire 4.5 metres ahead of Mark Thompson's Hes Real which trailed and My Mums A Star (one/three - three wide last lap) in a rate of 2-03.4.

- Len Baker

Page 104 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

MEMO AFL: WE ARE BEING CONNED

■ AFL fans are being conned! We are only’seeing ‘two thirds’of ‘actual football” at each of the ‘crunch’ matches – the other third is taken up in wrestling packs which end after the statuesque umpires decide to blow their whistles and award the weakest decision in our game’s history - ‘the aptly titled ‘Throw-Up’.

In fact it is an ‘inept’, no decision by our ‘decision adjudicators’ – a no free-kick – a waste of real footy time.

Why do the mauling packs develop?

Because players when tackled instinctively (this is the correct word because most players now know they won’t be freed for ‘holding the ball’) hug the ball to their bodies in a self preservation, wrap around tackle, and the umpires have not got the stomach to correctly pay the ‘strong’ decision of “holding the ball”.

Why didn’t I say ‘all’ players because the real champion ball-players, like Gary Ablett, Joel Selwood, Stevie Johnson, Kieran Jack, Dane Swan, Scott Pendlebury and a few others extricate themselves and play the ball on to the team’s advantage.

Chris Judd used to head this list but as age creeps up he too now resorts to this time wasting tactic.

Why not?

When you know you will be rewarded by an impotent decision which plays into the defensive coaches ‘stoppages’ game plan.

Another thing which ‘gets my goat’ is the umpires getting into ‘speakies’ with players about their decisions.

In my old rule book only the captain could question the umpire and then only at breaks.

In the Melbourne v Sydney game at the weekend, Swan ruckman, Mike Pyke, a former Canadian Rugby player was freed for ‘the new one metre space’ rule for throw-ins and throw-ups.

How embarrassing for the umpire as Mike was right on the ump’s mistake but wrong in trying to explain it to the umpire.

I note they’ve dumped the ‘space’ rule - they prefer the ‘wrestle’!

I’m also tired of ex-player commentators’ ignorance of the ‘marking’ interference law which is only legal from the side if and when the ball is within 5m of the contest and NEVER when it is ‘in the back’ or the ball is 20m away.

And why do umpires cower to illegal, negative ‘taggers”’whose sole role is to reduce the ‘champion’ to come down to their level and worse retaliate with a reportable reaction?

It would be best if the umpires were coached to protect the ‘ball player’, stick to the rules, as these lads make the game for fans and umpires.

Grassroots program ■ The AFL and Swisse have extended their connection to community football following the launch a new national grassroots program aimed at enhancing the standard of community football clubs.

The Swisse AFL Quality Club Program, launched at Avondale Heights Football Club, provides an opportunity for community football clubs to improve their administration and operations capabilities while recognising and rewarding those local clubs that meet a range of benchmarks.

The program encourages clubs to reach new standards in providing safe,

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel well managed, healthy, and happy environments for more than 300,000 players involved in club football on a local level.

There has also been the launch of the inaugural Swisse AFL Quality Club of the Year Award, a competition encouraging clubs to showcase their ‘People, Passion, Health and Happiness’ and in doing so go into the running to share in more than $20,000 of prizes for their local club.

AFL General Manager – Game Development, Andrew Dillon, said the AFL is focused on community football clubs creating quality environments to ensure grassroots football continues to flourish.

“The AFL is seeking to ensure a quality environment exists within all community football clubs.

“We know that community based clubs right around the country are passionate about Australian Football and we want to ensure that grassroots football is in great shape now and for generations to come.

“The Swisse Quality Club Program was developed to assist community football clubs to improve their operations and local environment.

“We’re delighted to have Swisse partnering with us as their core values resonate with both the AFL itself and the Swisse Quality Club Program,” Mr Dillon added.

Swisse CEO, Radek Sali, said Swisse was pleased to be able to connect with football clubs at a community level through the program.

“We have been the official vitamin of the AFL for a number of years and through the Swisse Quality Club Program we are now able to dive deeper and connect with those community clubs that are leading the way in creating healthy and happy local football club environments.”

To be eligible for the Swisse AFL Quality Club of the Year Award, and a share in more than $20,000 in prizes, local Clubs must first register as Swisse Quality Clubs at either Bronze, Silver or Gold level.

Clubs then have until August 12to produce a video that showcases their club’s People, Passion, Health and Happiness and upload it to facebook.com/Swissewellness australia Mr Sali said: “The entry criteria is a perfect fit for showcasing what is great about grassroots footy and the healthy and happy ethos engrained in the Swisse philosophy.”

Following the selection of a series of finalists, the winning club will be

decided via a public vote from August 13–26, with the entry that receives the most unique votes being crowned the 2013 Swisse AFL Quality Club of the Year.

The winning club will receive $5000 cash, two tickets to the 2013 AFL Brownlow Medal, and the Swisse Ultimate Sportsman’s Night.

In addition, Swisse will provide one lucky person with two tickets to the 2013 Toyota AFL Grand Final for simply voting for their favourite grassroots Swisse AFL Quality Club video.

For more information regarding the Swisse Quality Club Program, please log onto www.aflcommunityclub. com.au

South Aust. rewarded ■ South Australia has been rewarded with five All-Australians following a successful NAB AFL Under-18 Championships.

South Australian coach Brenton Phillips is the All-Australian coach after taking his team undefeated to the Division One title.

It was the first time South Australia has won since the carnival moved to an Under-18 format in 1996.

Tasmania coach Adam Sanders was named assistant coach after winning the Division Two title. It is the fifth time in 10 years the Tasmanians have won.

Vic Metro is also represented with five players, four from Vic Country, four from Western Australia, two from Tasmania and one each from NSW/ACT and Queensland.

Selection in the Under-18 All Australian team comes following the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships which were played throughout the country from May 25 to July 3.

AFL National and International Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan said many of the names in the team would

be known to thousands of football fans this time next year.

“The team represents the future of the game as these players will be very prominent at the 2013 NAB AFL Draft in November on the Gold Coast.

“Players like Ollie Wines, Nick Vlastuin, Jake Neade , Lachie Whitfield and Joe Daniher were named All-Australians this time last year and have now successfully made the transition to AFL football,” he said.

Only two players, Liam Dawson and Clem Smith, are ‘bottom-aged’ and therefore ineligible for the 2013 NAB AFL Draft.

The NAB AFL All-Australia team selectors for 20123 were: AFL National and International Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan, AIS-AFL High Performance coach Michael O’Loughlin, AFL Academies Development Manager Michael Ablett, Adelaide FC Recruiting Manager Hamish Ogilvie, Brisbane Lions Recruiting Manager Stephen Conole, North Melbourne Recruiting Manager Mark Finnigan and St Kilda Recruiting Manager Tony Elshaug.

The 2013 NAB AFL Under-18 All-Australian team is as follows: Defenders: Zac Jones (Vic Country), Darcy Gardiner (Vic Country), Liam Dawson (Queensland), Clem Smith (Western Australia), Matt Scharenberg (South Australia), Kade Kolodjashnij (Tasmania) Midfielders: Billy Hartung (Vic Country), Dominic Sheed (Western Australia), James Aish (South Australia), Toby Nankervis (Tasmania), Luke Dunstan (South Australia), Josh Kelly (Vic Metro) Forwards: Ben Lennon (Vic Metro), Cameron McCarthy (Western Australia), Jack Billings (Vic Metro), Lewis Taylor (Vic Country), Thomas Boyd (Vic Metro), Darcy Hourigan (South Australia) Interchange: Mitch Honeychurch (Vic Metro), Lloyd Perris (NSW/ ACT), James Battersby (South Australia), Patrick Cripps (Western Australia) Coach: Brenton Phillips (South Australia) Assistant Coach: Adam Sanders (Tasmania) Visit afl.com.au/18s for details of the 2013 NAB AFL Under-18 AllAustralian Team along with news from this year’s Championships

Go well, do well ■ Congratulations to the AFL on its initiative of fielding an All Australian Indigenous Team to represent our country in this year’s International Rules Series (IRS) in Ireland.

These boys will wear the AFL All Australian guernsey and blazer with pride. The honour will always be on their CV. The first Aussie Rules squad to play on the international stage was in 1967 when my ‘Galahs’ challenged Ireland’s Gaelic Champions at their game, their rules at their MCG called Croke Park in Dublin.

The squad picked by Ron Barassi, Ian ‘Liberty’ Law and myself were hurt by the contemptuous and belittling Aussie slang ‘nick-name’ which added to the daily ridicule in the Melbourne media.

It was an “Impossible Dream”

Round 16 Friday, July 12 Collingwood vs. Adelaide Crows (MCG) (N) Saturday, July 13 Port Adelaide vs. Hawthorn (AS) Geelong Cats vs. Melbourne (SS) Richmond vs.

Gold Coast Suns (CS) (T) Carlton vs. St Kilda (ES) (N) Brisbane Lions vs. North Melbourne (G) (N) Sunday, July 14 Sydney Swans vs.

GWS Giants (SCG) (E) Western Bulldogs vs.

Essendon (ES) West Coast Eagles vs.

Fremantle (PS) (T)

to give our handful of champion players the honour of representing their country against another nation.

We had to play Ireland’s indigenous game of ‘Gaelic Football’.

No other country played our game.

So in three weeks we learned Gaelic football. We did give away 49 frees to our one!

At our farewell dinner and jumper presentation I was tackled with the question “What are you going to do about this insulting title ‘The Galahs’?

Ron Barassi and ‘Hassa’ Mann reminded me of my reply at the recent Hall of Fame function.

I said: “Nothing! This name is going to stick with you for the rest of your lives.

“It is up to your deeds on the field whether ‘The Galahs’ is revered and worn with pride.” It is!

Every lad who went on my three tours, 1967-68-78 demands to be remembered as a member. They were responsible for today’s IRS. The reason the indigenous players are representing Australia is for the same reasons only six of the 12 VFL clubs supported me in 1967.

Selfish, righteous administrators want to protect their champions because their club is more important than playing for their country.

You boys front up unless you have a genuine excuse of injury because you have an added incentive, “you are also playing for your race and heritage”.

The IRS has been a great competition since inception in 1984 with the honours and results mostly nail-biting.

In 2011 played here we were trounced as coach Rodney Eade was given a team of youngsters making their way in their AFL careers.

So, you selfish, big noting club officials you have robbed your top players from playing for Australia.

Did you ever represent your country in any sport? Let the players make their decisions.

To the indigenous boys who make the team in October you have earned the honour.

Play with Stamina, Skill and above all Self-Satisfaction.

Like the Galahs you are creating your own history, writing your own records.

If the IRS is to continue it will be through your performance in Ireland.

This quote I got from a famous US baseball coach which I passed onto Ron Barassi - I called it “The 10 x 2 word Commandents for Success” “It Is To Be Me It Is Up To Me”.

Go well. Do well. Ar aghaidh len na cluichi (On with the games).

- Harry Beitzel

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - Page 105

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COOLUM BAYWATCH. Coolum Esplanade. 1768 David Low Way, Coolum Beach, Qld 4573. Phone: (07) 546 5500. Fax: (07) 5446 4455. Contact: Elaine.

Web: www.coolum baywatch.com E-Mail: info@columbaywatch.com FI★

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PRIVATE ADVERTISERS: Sell as many times as you like for No Cost Ever with Free Ads in the Melbourne Observer. We run your Free Ad for up to four weeks, without charge. Lodge the form (below) by mail, or complete the form at www.melbourne observer.com.au No Free Ads will be accepted by phone FI★ _____________________________________________________

SUBSCRIPTIONS. Have the Melbourne Observer newspaper delivered to any letterbox in Australia. $213.75 for 45 editions.

Pay by Credit Card (V, M, AE) by phoning 1-800 231 311. Or post Cheque/Money Order to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095.

FI★ _____________________________________________________

THE ONLINE edition of the Melbourne Observer extends readership to those who live outside the print distribution regions. Advertise your business. Phone our Advisors on 1-800 231 311. FI★ _____________________________________________________

FORMULA FORD FORMULA FORD EXPERIENCE AUSTRALIA. A Formula Ford Race Car Experience is the ultimate gift for any race car fan or motoring enthusiast.

For bookings or more information phone 1300 900 619 or check us out at www.ffea.com.au FI★

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GEL PRODUCTS GEL WORKS. PO Box 2064, Boronia Park, NSW 2111.

Phone: (02) 9879 4979.

Fax: (02) 9817 0650. EMail: sales@office. gelworks.com.au FI★ _____________________________________________________

MEDIC TECHNOLOGY MEDIC 1676, 6156.

117.

1565.

TECHNOLOGY. PO Box Melville South, WA Phone: 1-300 764 Fax: (08) 3438 Contact: Michael.FI★

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Phone your ad through on 1-800 231 311

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PHARMACY MELBOURNE BOULEVARD PHARMACY HEALTH FOODS. Shop 5, 401 St Kilda Rd, Melbourme, Vic 3004.

Phone: (03) 9866 1284.

E-Mail: naturopath,mbp@ live.com.au FI★

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RADIO RADIO ADVERTISING. Looking for low cost, effective Radio Advertising?

Try Melbourne's Golden Days Radio 95.7 FM. Call sponsorship Manager, Alex Hehr on 9572 1466, for a media pack goldendaysradio.com FI★

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VIDEO PRODUCTION ADELE VIDEO PRODUCTION. PO Box 120, Ballan, Vic 3342. Phone: (03) 5368 1378. Contact: Kerry. Web: www.videoproduction.com.au E-Mail: info@video production.com.au.

FI★

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WHAT’S ON

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QUEENSLAND CAIRNS. Grosvenor

In Cairns. 186-18 Mcleod St, Cairns, Qld 4870. Phone: (07) 4031 858. Fax: (07) 4031 8533. Contact: Brian Sweetman, Manager.

FI★ _____________________________________________________

FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME

Local Media Pty Ltd, publishers of the Melbourne Observer, seeks to appoint am experienced sales person for this work-fromhome position. You will be an enthusiastic self-motivated sales professional - with a dynamic approach and account management skills. Attention to detail vital.

All applications will be treated as strictly confidential Contact us for an information package to be sent to you.

Forward your resumé to: editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

_____________________________________________________

THE ONLINE edition of the Melbourne Observer extends readership to those who live outside the print distribution regions. Advertise your business. Phone our Advisors on 1-800 231 311. FI★ _____________________________________________________

Melbourne

Observer

Free Ads Deadline: 5pm Mondays

You can advertise FREE. No fees, no commissions.

FREE ADS are available for private/non-commercial advertisements, published at the discretion of the Editor. ☛ MAIL to: FREE ADS, PO Box 1278, Research, 3095 ☛ FAX FREE ADS to: (03) 9431 6247. Use plain paper ☛ E-MAIL: editor@melbourneobserver.com.au ☛ USE the FREE ADS form at melbourneobserver.com.au

NO PHONE-IN SERVICE FOR FREE ADS

FREE 40-WORD AD WORTH $40

Complete this coupon, one word per square, BLOCK LETTERS

WHITTLESEA COMMUNITY MARKET. Sat., July 20. 8am1pm. 3rd Saturday each month. Whittlesea Showgrounds, Yea Rd. Mel 246 H8. Sites from $20.

Enquiries: 0419 357 395.

Arts, crafts, plantys, clothes, food and more. Casual sites available.

FI★ _____________________________________________________

Friends of a lady (in a small learning group in the northern suburbs), who is a disability pensioner, are seeking the donation of a second-hand computer.

The group is hoping that Microsoft Word for students software might be available.

Please respond to: Leonie Charlesworth. glcharlesworth@ bigpond.com

REG No (FOR CARS) CONDITION:

PRICE:

SUBURB:

PHONE:

DETAILS BELOW NOT FOR PUBLICATION Name: ......................................................................................................

Street Address: ............................................................................................. .............................................. Phone: ........................................................

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 10, 2013 - Page 107

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