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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - Page 9
Showbiz News
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Order of Australia honour Observer for 3AW’s Keith McGowan In This 96-Page Edition
Mark Richardson: Mother Africa ............ Page 4 Ash Long: The Melbourne Observer ....... Page 10 Showbiz: Colleen Hewett performs ....... Page 11 Di Rolle: I love my job ...................... Page 12 Melb. Confidential: Ted’s comeback? ... Page 13 TV Memories: Colour television ........... Page 14 Been and Seen: with Fiona Hamilton .... Page 15 West Hollywood: with Gavin Wood ....... Page 17 In The Picture: Melbourne people ........ Page 18 Melb. Extra: Kevin Trask’s column ........ Page 20 Victoria Pictorial: Nostalgic photos ...... Page 21 Local Theatre Burlesque feature Radio, TV Movies and DVDs
Muriel’s Wedding
Observer Showbiz
Latest News Flashes Around Victoria
‘Shocking example’
PHOTO: CHRISTIAN WAGSTAFF/ FACEBOOK
PHOTO: REA FRANCIS/ FACEBOOK
■ Partygoers at Natasha Stipanov’s 40th birthday party at the weekend were part of a delightful unexpected event when the guestof-honour married partner Ari Vlassopoulos in a surprise ceremony. Natasha (nicknamed ‘Muriel’) is a popular Media Relations Manager for the gaming and corporate areas at Crown Melbourne, and Ari has been a successful front-of-house manager at Melbourne’s leading restaurants. Guests, who had been asked to arrive in black-tie/formal wear, partied well into the night after the ceremony. Hundreds of social media friends conveyed their best wishes to the popular couple. Natasha and Ari are honeymooning in a favourite destination: Bali.
PHOTO: NICKI WENDT/ FACEBOOK
● Natasha and Ari Vlassopoulos
Wedding bells for Norm
PHOTO: PENELOPE PERRIN/ FACEBOOK
● Penelope Perrin and Normie Rowe
■ It was wedding bells time for entertainer Normie Rowe, 67, and musician Penelope Perrin, who celebrated her 40th birthday on Sunday. What was supposed to be a 40th birthday celebration in Melbourne turned into a wedding. Norm was Australia’s most popular music star in the 1960s, with a career interrupted by military service. His songs include Que Sera Que, It Ain’t Necessarily So, I (Who Have Nothing), Shakin All Over, It’s Not Easy and ... in 1968, Penelope. Penni is a university-trained vocalist and backing singer.
● The late Keith McGowan ■ A posthumous Order of Australia Medal for the late Keith McGowan was announced in the Queen’s Birthday Honours on Monday. McGowan, who died suddenly at age 70 just prior to Christmas, was acknowledged “for service to broadcast media as a talkback radio host”. Keith Edward McGowan, OAM, conducted the Overnighters radio program on 3AW for more than 20 years. He started work as an office boy at 3UZ in 1957, and worked at 3TR Sale, 7BU Burnie, 7HO Hobart, 6PR Perth, 3TR (again), 2NM uwellbrook, 2KA Katoomba, 2HD Newcastle, 2UW Sydney, 3MP Mornington Peninsula, 3DB, 3AK and 3AW. His widow, Angela McGowan, has been invited to accept the award at Government House later this year. Angela said that her husband was a man who said what he believed, and made her laugh every day . Theyhad 10 years of joyous times together. The couple were married at EchucaMoama in 2006, with Keith McGowan celebrating his 50th annivesary of broadcasting in 2007. He retired from 3AW in 2011. The OAM honour is to take effect from January 16, 2013. Keith McGowan was aware, at the time of his death, that he had been nominated for the honour. The honour was recognised on air early this week with mentions by breakfast show co-host Ross Stevenson, morning broadcaster Neil Mitchell, and Magic 1278 team Kevin John and Jane Holmes.
■ A mother, 32, who pleaded guilty to stealing from trolleys at a Corio shopping centre with help from her 14-year-old son has been told she set a “shocking example”. The woman has not been named to avoid identify her son, the Geelong Advertiser reports. She has to pay $550 in fines, and $425 compensation.
71-y-o sent to jail ■ Eric John Wright maintained his innocence over an incident in the toilet at a Jerilderie hotel where another man suffered a scalp wound and broken ankle after being hit from behind. Magistrate Tony Murray convicted him and imposed a 10-month jail term, with a minimum of two months, reports the Border Mail.
Night club robbery ■ A Ballarat night spot, in Camp St, was the target of a midnight robbery at the weekend, reports The Courier.
Giant Lego theft ■ Detectives are appealing for information after about $15,000 worth of Lego was stolen from a toy store in Seymour, reports The Telegraph.Offenders removed the front glass door and stole about $5000 of Lego, in particular 'Lego City' and Lego 'Technic'.
Weather Forecast ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Today (Wed.). Mostly cloudy. 8°-17° Thurs. Mostly cloudy. 8°-16° Fri. Chance of rain. 8°-14° Sat. Chance of rain. 8°-14° Sun. Partly cloudy. 8°-14°
Mike McColl Jones
Top 5 THE T OP 5 REALITY TV SHO W TOP SHOW FORMA TS THEY HA VEN'T FORMAT HAVEN'T THOUGHT OF YET YET.. 5. Hold a war in your back-yard. M*A*S*H For You At Home. 4. Doctor Edlesten's new ‘squeeze’. Person Of No Interest. 3. A man who sets fire to his laxative. Bum Smoke. 2. A show set in Byron Bay. The Big Bong Theory. 1. How to buy Aussie toilets on hire purchase. Wee Wee on the Never Never.
Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014
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Ash
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - Page 11
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Queen’s Birthday Honours
Top gong for Barry Jones At Flying Saucer Club
Briefs Injured
■ Sale Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are appealing for further information after a baby sustained suspicious injuries. Investigators are treating the 6-weekold baby girl’s injuries as non-accidental, says the Gippsland Times. Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Thanks
● Mark Sayers PHOTO: WANG. CHRONICLE
■ Football umpire Mark Sayers, 43, who died for 15 minutes after suffering a heart attack, has paid tribute to those who helped save his life. He was officiating in the BeechworthWahgunyah match at Beechworth. A nurse and Army medic pumped Mr Sayers’s chest for 30 minutes in the trainers’ office before paramedics arrived, reports the Wangaratta Chronicle. He was flown by air ambulance to the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne.
THE BARREL ‘Never pick a fight with a man who buys ink by the barrel and paper by the ton.’ Tie his kangaroo down, sport
● Barry Jones on Pick-A-Box ■ Politician Barry Jones was made a Companion (AC) in the General Division of the Order of Australia, in the Queen’s Birthday Honours announced on Monday. Writer Les Carlyon was similraly honoured, “for eminent service to literatire through the promotion of the national identity as an author, editor and journalist, to the understanding and appreciation of Australia’s war history, and to the horse racing industry”. Melbourne theatre benefactor Betty Amsden was made an Officer (AO) for her philanthropioc contributions of the arts, including the development of public education and participation programs, particularly for children. Opera singer, composer and artistic director Deborah Joy Cheetham was redcognised dor the development of indigenous artists, and for innovation in performance. Entertainers honoured included Seekers members Judith Durham, Bruce Woodley, Keith Potger and Athol Guy; composer Professor Paul Grabowsky; TV director Sandra Levy. Theatre promoter John Frost is named as receipient of the AM medal., Former Federal Parliamentary Speaker Harry Jenkins receives the AO, as does former Melbourne Lord Mayor John So. Lonely Planet founders Maureen and Tony Wheeler were recognised.
● Colleen Hewett ■ Colleen Hewett is appearing at the Flying Saucer Club on Saturday, July 19. The Flying Saucer is the latest project of the Caravan Music Crew who created the much loved Caravan Club in Oakleigh. It is located at 4 St Georges Rd, Elsternwick. Colleen will be performing severaltracks from her soon-to-be released new album. Colleen was a guest on the Seven Network’s Morning Show with Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies to discuss the Australian music scene in years gone by.
Awards for Victorians ■ Michael Gawenda, former Editor of The Age, of 83 Spenser St, St Kilda, was named as an AM recipient “for significant service to the print media industry as a journalsit and editor, and to the advancement of professional education and development”. Pamela Warrender is recognised for service to the community of Melbourne, and to the arts. Marathon runner Steve Moneghetti of Ballarat “for significant service to athletics”. Christine Unsworth was acknowledged “for significant service to the community, particularly through leadership of the Royal Children’s Hospital”
Best of Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
● Michael Gawenda
Sydney entertainer Richard Wilkins was honoured “for significant service to the community through a range of charities, and to the entertainment industry”. Noel Loughnan, a publisher of the Yarrawonga Chronicle, was cited for service to print media. Jim Marett of Heyington Pl, Toorak, becomes a recipient of the OAM “for service to veterans through a range of roles”. Olga Tennison, widow of the late Pat Tennison, is noted for service to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their carers. Producer Rob Weeks is recognised for service to the broadcast media industry.
College case dismissed ■ A mother has lost her legal action against Ballarat Christian College. The women said her son, a Year 6 student at the College, had Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and that the school failed to take adequate measures to address the disability. Judge Marilyn Harbison, VicePresident of VCAT, heard evidence from each of the boy’s teachers. She said there was “overwhelming evidence’ that the boy engaged in insolence, rudeness, bullying and name-calling. Those behaviours went well beyond any diagnosed ADHD symptoms.
● Excerpt about Rolf Harris ■ Entertainer Rolf Harris wanted to film a sex comedy, according to a 2006 press clipping found by 3AW Nightline producer Simon Owens. Owens says he was looking at a book about 50 years of television, when he discovered this reproduction attributed to Harris. SEXYROLFSHOCKSAUSTRALIA “Rolf Harris has stunned Australian fans by revealing he wants to star in a sex comedy. The man with the signature glasses, beard and wobble board said the film he was considering was in the vein of Alvin Purple. “’It’s based on a book about a very sad little man who has no succes with women. His wife leave shim and a group of schoolgirls take him under their wings.’ “Rolf told TV Week: ‘I’d like to do the film because it would be nice to reveal sex in a normal, real way instead of glamourising it the way James Bond films do.” ■ Have Melbourne’s shop assistants simply given up on saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’? And does anyone say ‘please’ on their mobile phone messages? ■ Some unwelcome publicity for the Grollo family this week. ■ The Australian Press Council has upheld a complaint about an Age article headed ‘The death of Sally Brooks’. It reported the findings of the jury in the trial of Robert Meade for the murder of his former wife, Sally Brooks. The report named a young step-daughter.
Media Flashes ■ The Barrel thinks that The Age’s Jill Stark’s reports are becoming increasingly strident. The Scotsborn journalist has been vocal on Twitter about changes at Fairfax Media. At the weekend, the paper’s sub-editing, most of which is now done overseas, won a mention: “There was a typo in a headline of one of my stories. There is nothing I can say about it that won't get me in strife.” ■ Earlier this month, Stark remarked about her bosses at Fairfax: “Desperately disappointed by Fairfax management's decision to press ahead with sacking our photographers. As mistakes go, this one is epic.”
Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014
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To
Juliette has such beauty
Di For
I love my job! with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE
Welcome to ‘Presentation Night’
● Francis Leach, Cameron Ling and Paul Dempsey. Photo: Carbie Warbie ■ I had one of the best nights out when I attended Presentation Night at The Corner Hotel. Yes the very same Corner Hotel that I used to visit and see great bands. It was so good to return and have a ‘counter meal’ and get ready for a fun night. I was invited by a gal pal to go along and see the third Presentation Night – it was with Cameron Ling and Paul Dempsey. Together they discussed music, football and life and it was hosted by the wonderful Francis Leach. What a combination of wonderful men, all excellent in what they do. Presentation Night is a conversation between a footballer who loves music, and a musician who loves football, live on stage. It was a once-in-a-lifetime pairing between two greats in their respective fields. After making its debut last year with two sold-out shows at The Corner Hotel, Presentation Night #3 was the first one for 2014. Ling, Geelong premiership captain, Mayor of Geelong, Buddy Holly enthusiast and Something For Kate front man Paul Dempsey, multi -platinum recording artist, lover of science, St Kilda tragic, were welcomed into the fold by such an enthusiastic audience for a conversation about music, footy and life. Under the warm glow of the spotlight and with the expert guidance of host Francis Leach, these two great guys discussed their mutual love of music and footy at length in ways that was philosophical, funny and at times surprising. Cameron Ling was asked many times if he was considering a career as a football coach and was promptly given a bottle of Hair for Men by Francis for when and if he considers taking on the coaching role for his hair. The audience loved it. Presentation Night made is first-grade debut in July 2012 with a sold-out show featuring Paul Kelly, legendry singer/ songwriter, author, and Norward FC supporter, and Bob Murphy, celebrated Western Bulldog, Age columnist, and music fan. The following month Tim Rogers ,You Am I frontman, great Australian songwriter, Shinboner, and Matthew Richardson, legendary Tiger, much loved commentator and music lover, came together at another packed house for another very special night. Together they talked about the pressure of unrealistic expectations, mental illness, and overcoming fears to make a mark in their respective fields. 500 people sat completely transfixed from the moment they walked on stage until the last notes of You Am I’s classic Berlin Chair rang out from Tim’s guitar at the end. I have to say at the show I was at, Paul Dempsey performed Bruce Springsteen’s Born To Run superbly and his final song was a stunning breathtaking rendition of The Angel’s Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again – it was brilliant and a wonderful tribute to Doc Neeson given we lost him that day. Presentation Night was born of a desire to talk about two much-loved obsessions together in a public forum, and is an extension of the blog of the same name. In a football and music loving town where the two pursuits are so often followed with equal passion, it makes perfect sense. To have two greats in their field talk about their love of both capers gives us a chance to learn something new about them beyond the usual reportage of their endeavours. Lingy and Paul’s conversation lasted longer than a tweet – and that was the point. It was a great night. I will certainly be going to the next one and will alert my readers when that will be.
■ I think French actress Juliette Binoche is one of the most beautiful women in the world. She is certainly a fantastic actress. She was stunning in The English Patient. So I am very excited to hear that Umbrella Entertainment will release Fred Schepisi’s Words And Pictures in cinemas nationally on July 17 starring Academy Award-winner Juliette Binoche and Golden Globe-winner/Academy Award nominee Clive Owen. The film is a romance about a writer whose talent has dried up and an artist, struggling to paint as her body betrays her, who clash at the school where they teach, sparking both a flamboyant courtship and a school-wide war. Which is the more powerful? The Word or the Picture? It looks wonderful.
● Juliette Binoche
Passionate Scot ■ There is nothing that touches my heart more than the voice of Eddi Reader. Eddi is the Scots singer songwriter known both for her work with Fairground Attraction and for an enduring solo career. After her joyous tribute to Robert Burns at Melbourne Recital Centre in 2012, the perfect folk pop star Eddi is returning to showcase her stunning new album Vagabond, in a captivating deeply personal live concert. From the traditional to the contemporary, Eddi brings to life all forms of song. Her charisma and honesty engages powerfully with her audiences, making for electrifying and memorable concerts. Born in Glasgow, the daughter of a welder, and the eldest of seven children, her brother Francis is vocalist with the band The Trash Can Sinatras. She was nicknamed Edna by her parents. Living at first in the district of Anderston, Glasgow, in a tenement slum demolished in 1965, the young Reader family moved to a two-bedroomed flat in the estate of Arden, Glasgow. I wonder, as I write this if there are any readers from Arden, Glasgow, who will be interested to know. in 1976, due to overcrowding the family was re-housed 25 miles from Glasgow, in the council development of Irvine, Ayrshire; however, Eddi returned to Glasgow where she lived with her grandmother in order to finish her compulsory schooling. It was whilst here
she took up guitar and her love of music grew. Interestingly Eddi is writing a book for publication in 2016 about her great uncle Seamus (or James) Reader, who was head of the Scottish Brigade of the Irish Republican Brotherhood when the Irish War of Independence broke out in 1919, later becoming a founder of the abortive Scottish republican Army, which attempted to replicate the Irish struggle in Scotland between the wars. On Facebook, she posted that he “was in command of 4000 Scots involved in the Irish Rising build up and the Irish war against England. “I am.” she wrote, “feeling like a baton has been passed on to me”. Reader has been a prominent for the Yes Scotland movement, campaigning for a Yes vote in the referendum for Scottish independence from England. Her outspoken appearance on the British news show, Question Time, resulted in her being widely criticised for “unfocused nationalist emotion”, with one viewer threating on Twitter to cut her tongue out. Her charisma and honestly engages powerfully with her audiences, making for electrifying and memorable concerts. Her rare blend of meltingly true vocals, unabashed romanticism and down to earth intelligence has made her a musical icon, winning her fans around the globe. Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, MRC, on Friday, June 20 at 7.30pm Tickets from $50; book 9699 3333
● Eddi Reader
Vintage designer sale ■ Like every girl I love a Vintage Sale so was most excited to hear about the Hawkeye Vintage Designer Sale happening at the historic Como House Ballroom. Friday-Saturday-Sunday, June 13-14-15, from 10am to 5pm; everyone is welcome. The Hawkeye Designer Vintage Collection sale has a percentage going to maintenance of Como Historic House. It will feature some amazing vintage pieces from the 1960s to 80s including labels such as Chanel, Yves St Laurent, Keno, Fendi, Versace, Courreges, Missoni - all seriously collectable investment Vintage couture. Serious vintage shopping is not so much about the cut but whether or not you have deep pockets. This vintage sale however is the more astonishing for its low prices. Pristine Pucci features in the sale. Pucci was of course an Italian aristocrat who started designing ski clothes for himself and then launched his line in 1947 mainly for his friends - the post war glamorous European jet set. His signature abstract designed, silk jersey clothes that slid over the body looked great with a tan. The pristine Missoni on sale is the biggest collection outside of the Missoni family. The Missoni label started in the 1950s with fabulous printed knits, bold colours and patterns setting them apart from the rest of haute couture. Missoni in the late 60s was known for sending models down the runway braless in see through tops tapping into the Zeitgeist of the youth revolution. Danielle Goodwin, owner of Hawkeye Vintage, who is presenting the sale, said she has spent most of her years collecting and selling amazing beautiful designer pieces through online and pop up stores. From collecting and travelling the world from a young age and spending time living in Paris and Tokyo she was able to develop a discerning appreciation of fine vintage designer fashion. The couture will sell from $100 to $1000 and will be displayed in the Drawing Room of Como House. The ballroom will feature about 3000 clothes and accessories from vintage designers. This will be some sale to attend. Be early’ I might get in before you! Historic Como House, Cnr Williams Road and Lechlade Ave, South Yarra (tram 8, stop No 34, Williams Rd). 10am – 5pm
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - Page 13
Confidential Melbourne
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
Doctor reprimanded over ‘unprofessional conduct’
Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets
Injunction over cash ■ The Australian Securitioes and Investments Commission has obtained orders in the Federal Court in Melbourne extending an injunction restraining Sino Australia Oil & Gas Ltd, an Australian Stock Exchange-listed entity, from transferring company funds from two accounts it holds with HSBC Bank Australia Limited. ASIC initially obtained an injunction on an urgent basis in March following concerns that SAO was about to transfer $7.5 million – representing almost the entire cash held by SAO in Australia – to bank accounts in China for purposes that were not disclosed.. ASIC’s investigation expanded into other concerns, including a concern that SAO’s recorded net profit for the period to December 31 was approximately 40 per cent less than that forecast in its prospectus documentation. Justice Davies ordered the extension of the injunction until Auguist 28 with a further hearing set down on August 25. Justice Davies also ordered that SAO be permitted to use a maximum of $673,255.58 in order to pay claims made on SAO by Australian-based trade creditors. Justice Davies said that it was necessary or desirable to extend the injunction in order to protect the interests of the investors and for the preservation of SAO’s assets in Australia.
Status to change
■ Dr Barry McGrath has been cautioned and reprimanded after being accused of unprofessional conduct. Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Senior Member Noreen Megay, assisted by members Mr B. Collopy and Dr PMolloy, heard thart Dr McGrath failed to provide privacy aids to a female patient during an examination. On one occasion he failed to obtain informed consent from the patient when he carried out an examination including palpating an area at the top of her breasts, her inner thighs, and the top of her buttocks. These examinations took place at Lister House Medical Centre, Shepparton, VCAT was told. Dr McGrath admitted “unprofessional conduct” by failing to make adequate notes of his co0nsultations. Dr McGrath’s counsel submitted that the medico had an excellent reputation, that five years had elapsed since the conduct occurred, that he had excellent references, and that his practice had an educative role.
Return
Topical Taps
The “unprofessional conduct” was at the lower end of the range of seriousness that might fall within the definition of “unprofessional conduct”, Counsel submitted. The Tribunal panel said it was satisfied that the public could hjave confidence in Dr McGrath’s future practice of medicine. He is required to complete counselling sessions at his own expense over the coming six months to review appropriately maintaining patients’ privacy, proper note-taking and record kepping; and obtaining informed consent regarding patient examinations.
■ Morakis Funeral Services Pty Ltd has requested a Pre-Hearing Conference at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Tues.) to allege a case of “monies due” against Vassilios Anagnosteas.
■ Most showbiz acts have a warm-up. Celtic Thunder, performing at the Plenary on Saturday night, instead made an announcement about patrons donating to a Leprosy charity. ■ A by-election will be held on August 23 for the Red Hill Ward on Mornington Peninsula Council. ■ Hillcrest Christian College (Vic.) Inc. has requested a Melbourne Magistrates’ Court szession at 10am today (Wed.) to allege “monies due” by Aaron Sharma. ■ Seven Network and 3AW newsman Nick McCallum was unafraid to declare hos political feelings on social media this week: “The more this @sundaynighton7 story on PUP (Palmer United Party) goes on, the the more slimy and "politics as usual" the party looks. McCallum is on 3AW’s Sunday Mornings.
Rumour Mill
Stir over radio station prizes
■ Operations Manager Steven Scodella abbounces that a number of Victorian associations are about to lose their incorporation status: Central Murray Produce Group Inc.; Victoria Police Karate Club Inc.; Parents and Friends of Beaver Street Kindergarten Inc.; The Melbourne Church of Living Stone Inc. Port Musos Inc.; Williamstown Greenwich Bay Ladies Probus Club Inc.; Pregnancy SupportAlbury Wodonga Inc.; Orbost Theatre Group Inc.; Melbourne Film Society Inc.; Design Business Association Inc.; Community Development Group Inc.; The First American Samoan Assembly of God Church Victoria Australia Inc.; Wyndham Wolves Football Club Inc.; Castlemaine JuniorAthletics Club Inc.; My Sister’s Dream Inc.; Snowy River Boat Club Inc.; Batman Street Allstars Inc.; The National Tax Lawyers Association Inc.; Back on Track Inc.; Hume Fishing Social Club Inc.; Kafkas Australia Association Inc.; Victorian Racing Ride on Mowers Inc.; The Association forArt and Culture Development in the Community (AACDC) Inc.; Simply Make A Difference Inc.; Bcubed Productions Inc.; Active First Aid Inc.; SPLM Australia Inc.; Hamilton Touch FootballAssociation Inc.; Murray Deer Farmers Association Inc.; The Kensington Cricket Club Inc.; Quality Improvement and Community Services Accreditation Inc.; Kingsville Community Childcare Inc.; Counselling Education Development Australasia (CEDA) Inc.; Bell Melville Traders Association Inc.; Friends of the Quarries (Clifton Hill) Inc.; Somali Institute of Peace and Development (SIPD) Inc.; Romanian Pentecostal Church Elim Inc.; Post 892 Forum Inc.; Weily Family Inc.; Muckatah 22P Community Surface Water Management System Inc.; Honorable Order of the Bluegoose International Inc.; Friends of Warringine Park Inc.; Epic Teams Association Inc.; The EcumenicalAssociation of Schools Inc.; Limmud Fest Melbourne Inc.; Singapore Widow Inc.; Charlton Stadium Committee Inc.; Swifts Creek Skatepark Committee Inc.; The Beechworth and District Pistol Club Inc.; Beaconsfield Business Group Inc.; South Western District CB Radio Club Inc.; Australian Psychics Association Inc.; South Port Football Club Inc.; Visit Portarlington Association Inc.; Landsborough and District Community Recreation Centre Inc.; Alsalam International Inc.; Smiths Gully MTB Inc.; Green Mums 3228 Inc.; Tarnagulla & District Historical Society Inc.; Croatian Association ‘Bosna’ Geelong Inc.
Whispers
Hear It Here First
● Ted Baillieu ■ If Frankston rogue MLA Geoff Shaw is out of the picture, is there anything to prevent Ted Baillieu returning as Victorian Premier?
Ouch!
● Helen Kapalos ■ Which TV reporter - with the initials of Helen Kapalos - had an elbow to nose experience on trampolines with young relatives on Sunday ... the day before a piece-tocamera was due to be filmed for the Seven Network?
Dispute
Ambulance to Court
■ Staff at 3AW are angry that prizes won on the station are being sold quickly thereafter on the station’s Buy, Swap And Sell program. “Caller who won a heater on Denis Walter's program, rings up and tries to sell said heater on Buy, Swap and Sell. Surely that's against the rules?” sports broadcaster Shane McInnes told colleagues at the weekend. “It's against our policy. That's for sure,” said Nicole Jeffs on Facebook. “That is so dodgy,” agreed Kerrie Firth. “She did the same with a leaf blower. Prizing coordinator knows her address by heart, she has won so much,” said newswoman Jessie Aiton. “There is a simple solution,” offered Simon Owens. “We, as a station need to run a short grab once in each program stating ‘In the best interests of all listeners, no person is entitled to more than one prize per three months. If a subsequent prize is won within that time the prize will not be issued and will be reallocated in future programs’.”.
■ Ambulance Victoria is due to allege a civil claim of “services rendered” against International Entertainment Group Pty Ltd at a Registrars’ Hearing due to be held at 10.30am today (Wed.) at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.
Rival lunch groups ■ Pete Smith and John Blackman will appear at the ‘Premier Australian Marquee Entertainment Luncheon Club’ run by Jeff Joseph, being held at Giorgio’s Restaurant, Malvern, on Tuesday, June 24. Dennis Smith and Ron Fletcher have joined Garry Spry and Jamie Nasser to run a similar named group at Toorak. Its members meet today (Wed.) to hear Normie Rowe.
Down in the mouth ■ Which Melbourne reporter is fuming that she did not receive an invitation to a weekend wedding?
E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au
■ The Trustees Of The Christian Brothers are seeking an interlocutory application hearing against Mara Demarte at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Thurs.) at 9.30am where an allegation of “services rendered “ is due to be heard.
Repeat ■ There were similar rumours about 3AW boss Shane Healy leaving radio to join Carlton Football Club back in 2006. By the way, he barracks for Essendon.
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Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014
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Melbourne TV Memories
● Philip Brady with Keith McGowan in November last year ■ TV-radio personality Philip Brady celebrates his 75th birthday on Monday (June 16). The Nightline-Remember When co-host started work at Channel 9 in 1958, quickly coming to prominence nationally on Graham Kennedy’s In Melbourne Tonight. The former Xavier College student appeared in commercials and comedy sketches as well as compering the show on occasions. He hosted many television shows including Concentration and Everybody's Talking for the Nine Network, and Moneymakers, Junior editor@melbourneobserver.com.au Moneymakers, Casino with Ash Long Ten, Get The Message and Password for the 0–10 “For the cause that lacks assistance, Network. ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance He worked on Good For the future in the distance, Morning Australia with And the good that we can do” Bert Newton as well as guest appearances on Seven‘s Tonight Live with Steve Vizard and ABC‘s The Late Show. Philip hosted shows on radio 3AK and also did shifts on radio 3AW in the 1970s. He worked as producer for Bert Newton’s morning show on radio ■ “Always remember that a man is not rewarded for 3UZ in the early 1980s. In 1986, Brady moved having brains, but for using them.” to the Gold Coast and for nearly five years hosted a daytime radio show on ■ “There are many people who are not actual liars, Easy Listening 97 Tweed but they keep a respectful distance from the truth.” Heads. Brady came back to Melbourne in 1990 and began a long-lasting and ■ “Jesus said, "Wide is the gate and broad is the continuing partnership with Bruce Mansfield on road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that talkback radio 3AW. Long Shots joins with leads to life, and only a few find it.” - Matthew 7:13-14 Philip’s many friends and fans in wishing him well. Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. ■ In a bittersweet note The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, this week, Philip’s former by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to 3AW colleague, the late publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Keith McGowan, was Further details of cases are available at awarded OAM in the www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Melbourne Observer shall Queen’s Birthday in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any Honours. I took the photo person or body due to information provided. The information is (above) of Philip and provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responfor assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content. Keith in November last sibility No inference of a party’s guilt or innocence should be made by year, just one month be- publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be fore Keith’s sudden pass- changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the ing at age 70. action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.
Long Shots
Observer Treasury
Thought For The Week
Observer Curmudgeon Text For The Week
■ Midnight, March 1, 1975. This was a signal moment for television across Australia. Overnight, TV was transformed from black-andwhite to wondrous living-room-filled colour. We went to bed as mundane monochromes and emerged into the morning light as vivacious polychromes. Yes, we vidiots had been taken somewhere far over the rainbow to the land of shaky emeralds, queasy reds and blurring blues and yellows that were, in time, to stabilise into our dreamland of well-defined colour. And so it was farewell to the programs of the past, consigned to the oblivion of late night repeats and graveyard night-owls. Even Mass For You At Home, begun in 1971, would henceforth be viewed in glorious colour, much to the delight of the dedicated ladies who provided their weekly floral altar tributes and, I suspect, those who were the presenters of each Sunday Eucharist. The transition into colour, from my memory was, fairly unremarkable. Perhaps I have a block here, but I really can't recall a memorable program such as a big variety show or sporting event on any channel. Perhaps we were all overwhelmed by seeing our newsreaders, our favourite programs, our commercials in this newest, incredible medium. Of course we'd been looking at the movies in technicolour for years, but television? This was different. This was at home. And being at home, it was so much more intimate: preparing salad for lunch with Tommy and Pot Of Gold, in colour. Bruce Mansfield, in colour, right in your face while eating dinner on your TV tray. Dozing off on the couch during Gown Of The Year. Yes, dozing off... But we dozed off in colour. Did it make television any better really? Did Cinerama make movies any better? Even today, would reality programs be worse in black and white or just as much rubbish? The answer is probably in the quality of the programs. The other test was how wardrobe looked at various materials and clothing, how the makeup departments had to re-think for colour. And it didn't end there. Even VFL football, amongst other sports, had to re-think their team colours and the possibilities of matching footy knickers. No longer was the League bound to black and white shorts. Set designers and painters now had to consider a whole new universe. No longer could a grey-scale match different colours to black and white. No longer could orange marking paint be used on a pale blue floor. That era was over. Meantime, the early 1970s presented TV chef Bernard King. But TV chef he was not, in his place on Pot of Gold in 1975. True to the recipe, much as Red Symons on Nine's Red Faces, King was the King of vile retorts and exquisite put-downs. Tommy Hanlon grinned and smiled a lot, which was the upside of Bernie's brutality. Matlock Police was still in production until 1976, as was The Box, 1974-1977, and of course enthusiastic viewers could now see all their favourite kid's beaming smiles (being out-beamed by Johnny Young) on Young Talent Time. What was a bit of a downer were all those wonderful movies out of Hollywood and Britain that had been shot in stark black and white: Wuthering Heights, The Maltese Falcon, Jamaica Inn,' Casablanca, Citizen Kane. Well we should not have harboured fears that technology would not find a way. In fact it had already begun the process as far back as the early 1900s. True colourisation would become an optional extra for those who wanted to see Film Noir and film black/grey and white in vivid, multi-hued tones. In a time when there were no mobile phones, no personal printers, fax machines, no personal computers, no internet, no Twitter, not even email, Face Book or YouTube, Colour had come to town. Australia collectively lifted its face to the sunshine after the rain, and there, over the hills of faraway, was the double rainbow, displaying all the brilliant variations of what we would come to take for granted almost 40 years later on. - Kenneth Mulholland
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - Page 15
Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Incredible life of John Hyland ■ James Nicolas, of Walhalla Lodge No. 69, has recently written another book, this time commemorating the life of John Hyland. The name of John Hyland is immortalised in several places around Warrnambool. There's a street named after him and his name is inscribed on the foundation stone of the former town hall, now the Lighthouse Theatre. But not many people know much about this rather remarkable character who could list Mayor of Warrnambool as just one of his many achievements. Nicolas, who became fascinated by Hyland's story during a visit to Warrnambool's History House, writes that John Hyland came to Australia as part of the great Irish exodus of the 1800s, his family having been impoverished by the famine. In Australia he lived an eventful and fruitful life, mainly in Warrnambool and Mortlake. He was, at various times, a policeman, squatter, councillor, stock and station auctioneer and friend of highly influential people. Throughout he was a mover and shaker who helped shape the communities in which he lived. "Wherever I go I always delve into the local history. This time I read a bit about John Hyland and realised he was a man who led an extraordinary life. So I thought I would write a book about him," Nicolas said. The book, Warrnambool, a long way to Tipperary - the incredible life of John Hyland, chronicles Hyland's life from his early days in Ireland
● Warrnambool, a long way to Tipperary - the incredible life of John Hyland, available for $29.95. through his many careers and personal life to his death at 79 years of age. Its pages reveal a character who just got on and did things, creating his own opportunities. It also depicts a man ahead of histime - he was an advocate for the women's vote when such a thing was considered untenable by wider society. He also suffered his own personal tragedies, most notably the loss of a son to scarlet fever. History buffs who want to learn more about this district pioneer can buy the book at a number of local bookstores or from cobrascfc@gmail.com for $29.95.
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Milestone at Cohuna ■ The Freemasons Victoria Grand Team, conducted a re-enactment of the consecration of Cohuna Lodge No. 227 during centenary celebrations on Saturday, May 31. Lodge No. 227 was consecrated on September 9, 1913, a year after a group of 12 local men began efforts to seek approval for its formation. A cross-section of the community attended the event, many of whom had not been exposed to Freemasonry. Grand Master Hillel Benedykt led the ceremony to mark the centenary of Cohuna Lodge, which involved local members playing the part of petitioners who sought formation of the Lodge in 1913. Hillel invited all who attended to think back 100 years and imagine the scene as 12 men from a variety of occupations sought the creation of the new Lodge. Ted Jackson outlined the history of Lodge No. 227. Back in 1912, when tentative steps were taken to form the Lodge, the mode of transport in the country at that time was mostly horse and buggy, horse and gig or horseback. There was a very small population in the district and very few roads. Members from a radius of 10 to 14 miles around Cohuna were holding meetings in private homes or at the local police station. The only suitable meeting place in Cohuna at the time was an old brick garage owned by Mr McKenzie-King and was located in Cullen St. As this building was not being used the owner was approached and agreed to lease it to the Lodge. The existing Kerang Masonic Lodge, which recently closed after existing for 129 years, sponsored and supported the fledgling Lodge. The 12 members who had been meeting regularly, made plans to meet on February 10, 1913, where the gathering unanimously resolved that all necessary steps be taken to form a Masonic Lodge in Cohuna. At the same meeting a decision was made that they go ahead and lease the garage. The lease was signed in April 1913. Members also decided to proceed with the call for tenders for the alterations to be made to the garage
● WBro. Ken Dashwood, RWBro. Ken Mawson joined 65-year veteran VWBro. Ernie O’Rourke and his partner Gwen Richie. Photos: Ken Jenkins, Northern Times
● The Freemasons Victoria Grand Team
● Cohuna Lodge members representing original foundation members. to make it an adequate meeting tember 9, 1913. place. The Kerang Lodge received the While the alterations were being petition to form a Lodge in Cohuna made, many of the members were dis- on May 5, 1913; it was received by cussing and making plans for the pur- Grand Lodge and was certified with chase of land and the building of their names of the petitioners on June 6, own Lodge room. 1913. The amount they could afford for On June 19, the Board of General this was £200. Bro. Jackson told the Purposes recommended that the pegathering that having made the deci- tition be granted. sion to form a Lodge in Cohuna, Kerang Lodge was able to supply members would need to get petitions most of the furnishings required of signed and make arrangements for the which Cohuna Lodge were most Consecration and Installation by Sep- grateful ... and the rest is history.
Support when the world seems to be spinning ■ The next time you see someone looking a little unbalanced, maybe even falling over, think twice. This person may be suffering from Meniere's disease, a debilitating condition that effects the inner ear. The disease, which produces symptoms of vertigo, tinnitus and hearing loss, stems from a build-up of fluid in the inner ear which disturbs balance and stability. Vertigo attacks can occur without any warning and cannot be predicted as to how severe the vertigo will be or how long it will last. Tinnitus, distorted hearing and pressure in the ear often occurs in conjunction with vertigo. In the early stages of the condition, hearing returns to normal levels following an attack, but as the disease progresses, measurable and permanent hearing loss occurs. Estimates vary but around 90 per cent of people with Meniere's have the disease in only one ear when first diagnosed. Around 50 per cent of these may go on to develop the disease in both ears. Freemasons Victoria spoke to Len Shenker, a long time sufferer of Meniere's disease.
"Meniere's disease has struck me several times over the past 20 years, with the episodes I've experienced over the past year being the most prolonged and most severe". "The disease hit me with full force. I experienced seasick-like symptoms of nausea and vomiting, an inability to focus my eyes, an inability to walk straight and a general sick feeling. These symptoms were later confirmed to be that of Vestibular Migraines, common amongst Meniere's sufferers,” Len said. Meniere's disease affects one in every 600 Australians, and it appears that Meniere's is diagnosed around the person's late thirties to early fifties. Unfortunately this is a time of life when people are busy with family and careers. It is uncommon for children to be diagnosed. Currently there is no known medical cure for Meniere's. The condition can however be managed to some degree through medication, diet, stress reduction, exercise programs, natural therapies and as a last resort, surgery. If you know someone who may have Meniere's disease or other vestibular disorders or you would like more information, contact Meniere's Australia on 1300 368 818 or visit www.menieres.org.au/
● 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. ● Don't miss Series 2 of Freemasons: The Inside Story, airing Monday nights at 8:30pm on Channel 31, or visit www.C31.org.au to watch it online.
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Observer
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - Page 17
West Hollywood
Farewell to US flying kangaroo From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.
Another Fonda crowned
The Gegesi Impact ■ After 45 years as Head of Marketing Promotions and Entertainment Industry Sales for Qantas USA, Terri Gegesi, received a farewell-framed print of the iconic Santa Monica Boulevard presented by Visit West Hollywood President Brad Burlingame, and Alan Johnson, Managing Director of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites in West Hollywood. Australia is West Hollywood's leading international market with almost 60 weekly flights from Australia to LAX. Los Angeles welcomes more than 20,000 visitors each week. Key statistics for Australian visitors to California: ■ Visitors to California - 537,000 in 2013 ■ Visitor spending - $986 Million ■ Market Share - 45.1per cent ■ Average length of stay - 7-9 days.
● Pictured at the cocktail party, from left, Brad Burlingame, Terri Gegesi, Cameron Daddo, William Karpiak and Alan Johnson.
Disney hit: tourism spikes ■ The Disney hit Frozen is inspiring fans to visit the area that inspired the movie's setting. The popularity of the moviehas not only led to box-office profits, sold-out merchandise and long lines to meet Frozen characters in Disney parks. It's also motivating fans to visit Norway to see the landscape that inspired the animated movie setting. Harald Hansen, US spokesman for Visit Norway ,said the number of US tourists to Norway increased markedly since the film's release in November, with booked hotel nights up 37 percent for the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2013. He said tour operators have also seen a 40 per cent sales increase this year, compared to the same period last year, while Oslo Airport Gardermoen reported a 57 per cent increase in arrivals from New York for the first quarter. "We noticed a huge increase from the US. already in November and December last year, just after we started our marketing with Disney in October," Hansen said. Hansen said that the increase in traffic is most noticeable in the fjord region, but that there is also more interest in Oslo and Northern Norway, where visitors can see the northern lights, a phenomenon that is also shown in the movie. Norwegian Air has also just begun flying direct to Oslo from Orlando, Florida, the airport nearest Disney World. The Disney tour company Adventures by Disney, is taking fans on a series of eight-day trips to Norway this year, priced at more than $5000 per person, including a visit to Geirangerfjord, the fjord that inspired the film's fantasy kingdom of Arendelle. Disney Cruise Line plans a Norway itinerary for 2015.
Co. admits infringement ■ An energy drink company has admitted to infringing on the Beastie Boys band's work with a snowboarding video it sponsored. Beastie Boys' suit against Monster Energy has ended, with jurors finding against the beverage company to the tune of $1.7 million. The suit, brewing for two years before the trial began in New York Federal Court, centered on Monster Energy's use of a Beastie Boys "megamix," put together by DJ Z-Trip, who the beverage company had hired to soundtrack a four-minute-long recap video of a snowboarding competition sponsored by the company. The video incorporated five Beasties songs - Sabotage, Pass the Mic, Make Some Noise, So What'cha Want and Looking Down the Barrel Of a Gun - which Monster Energy, in its opening statements presented last week, admitted to infringing upon.
● The Beastie Boys
GavinWood
From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd
Barry Gibb: Stayin’ Alive ■ A touching look back at Bary Gibb’s remarkable career serves as a tribute to those Gibb brothers no longer with us. Stayin' Alive, the 1977 disco anthem, may be the Bee Gees' best-known song, but it also served as the stated purpose for Barry Gibb's solo tour, which wrapped its first American leg at the Hollywood Bowl. Following the deaths of his brothers and band mates, Maurice in 2003 from a heart attack, and Robin in 2012 from complications of cancer, Barry Gibb had kept a relatively low profile before emerging late last year with the Mythology Tour, his first solo trek. Barry Gibb, now 67, spent ample time digging into the Bee Gees' disco-era hits. The set opened with Jive Talkin', but didn't truly get moving until two songs in, when Gibb pulled out You Should Be Dancing, a percolating disco gem that got the crowd moving, just as the title implored. Backed by an eight-piece band and three backup singers, Gibb touched upon different phases of the band's vast history, with nods to his late brothers and still-living collaborators. Dressed all in black, with his famed mane now thinning and gray, Gibb performed much of the show armed with a blue acoustic guitar. Early in the set, he paid tribute to his younger brother Andy, who died in 1988 at age 30 of a heart condition, likely brought on by substance abuse. Noting that "Andy wanted to be a Bee Gee, but he was too young," Gibb performed the ballad Our Love (Don't Throw It Away) in his honour as images of the younger Gibb appeared on video screens. Maurice was remembered with the presence of his daughter, Sammy, who joined her uncle for the first time of the night on a duet on How Can You Mend A Broken Heart and returned several other times in the set. Robin was brought back via video on I Started a Joke, a song that Barry began singing before Robin took the lead in a duet from the great beyond that worked surprisingly well with accompaniment from the live band. Closing with Tragedy, Gibb reminded us that yes, it's a shame that his brothers are no longer with us, but proved his solo show is the next best thing and shouldn't be missed by any true fan of popular music.
www.gavinwood.us
■ The American Film Institute HAS crownED another Fonda as it celebrates the actress' never-say-die career. In 1978, Jane Fonda looked on from the dais as her father, Henry, became the sixth recipient of the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award. Some 36 years later, Fonda, now 76, will follow in his footsteps as the AFI's 42nd honouree in a long line of Hollywood luminaries. "Jane Fonda is American film royalty," Howard Stringer, chair of the AFI board of trustees, declared in announcing her selection. But given the dramatic twists and turns that her life and her career have taken, it never was a foregone conclusion that Fonda would be honoured this way. In fact, when she got the call, the two-time Oscar-winning actress says "I burst into tears. It's the biggest honor. Bette Davis asked me to present it to her, many years ago in the 70s. Barbara Stanwyck asked me to present it to her. And then, of course, my dad received it. I never thought it would happen to me. You know, I left the business for 15 years and crawled my way back in, starting at age 65. So I just feel very blessed this is happening." Fonda had no trouble breaking into the business, of course: Her first movie role earned her star billing as a marriageminded coed opposite Anthony Perkins in the romantic comedy Tall Story. And by the mid-'70s, she had passed through her ingenue phase and graduated into challenging dramatic roles. But thanks to her passionate anti-war activities, she also had become one of the most polarizing figures in show business. Eager to defend his daughter, Henry Fonda, in his own AFI acceptance speech, introduced his family and spoke of his own father, saying: "He never met my children, but I know he'd be proud. I can hear Dad answering someone criticising Jane: 'Shut up, she's perfect!' " To which Henry tossed in, "Right on, Dad!" Undaunted and determined to forge a screen persona that matched her political ideals, Jane Fonda partnered with producer Bruce Gilbert in their own IPC Films production company to develop projects that tackled serious subjects like workplace sexism (in the comedy Nine to Five), nuclear power (The China Syndrome) and petrodollars (Rollover). At the same time, she also created a mini-empire out of her exercise videos -- only to walk away from the business following her marriage to her third husband, Ted Turner, in 1991. It was only after divorcing Turner in 2001 and completing her 2005 autobiography, My Life So Far ,that Fonda realised, "I could find joy in acting again." The 2005 comedy Monster-in-Law marked her comeback, and she hasn't slowed down since. She's found a relationship with record producer Richard Perry, enthusiastically embraced social media with a website of her own, and earned an Emmy nomination for her role as a network CEO in The Newsroom. As soon as she completed her duties at this year's Cannes, where she reigned as L'Oreal's oldest brand ambassador, she headed off to Switzerland for a role in Paolo Sorrentino's The Early Years. She'll be seen onscreen this fall, playing mom to Tina Fey and Jason Bateman in This Is Where I Leave You. "Boy, did we have fun," she says. And then she and Lily Tomlin begin shooting a new comedy series, Grace and Frankie, for Netflix. Despite her years, she hasn't really settled into the role of grand dame. "It's like T.S. Eliot says," she says. "You spend your life exploring, and at the end of all your explorations, you come back to where you started. I'm back to the feisty girl I was, but I now embody her in a whole different way. I'm still Jane." But to many people she will always be known as ‘Hanoi Jane’. Fonda has been an activist for many political causes her counterculture era opposition to the Vietnam War and associated activities were controversial. She has protested the Iraq War and violence against women, and describes herself as a feminist.
Special Holiday Offer
■ If you want to come over to the Hollywood Bowl and see some amazing acts then I have a special holiday offer for you. I have managed to secure a terrific holiday deal for all readers of the Melbourne Observer. When planning your trip to Los Angeles come and stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, 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 Happy Holidays. See you at the Ramada. Gavin Wood
Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014
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Victoria Pictorial
Sunday Drives Historic Photo Collection
● St Andrew’s Kirk, Ballarat
● The Weir, Lower Side, Yarrawonga. 1950
● Steam Tram. Back Beach, Sorrento. 1914.
● Entrance to ‘The Chalet’, Warburton. 1940.
● The main road, Olinda. 1945.
● View at Mt Dandenong, 1925.
● The Great Ocean Road, Wye River
● Near ‘Elephant Rock’, Flinders. 1921.
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Observer
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - Page 19
Travel Extra
Strewth! David Ellis’s tall travel tales ■ David Ellis says that in Dubai they’ve got a problem with abandoned cars – not clapped-out old heaps left abandoned in the streets, but sparkling luxury, big price-tag saloons, 4WDs and sports cars being dumped to clutter-up airport car parks. Last year alone more than3000 luxury cars were driven to international airports in Dubai and other parts of the United Arab Emirates for the seemingly strangest of reasons: their expatriate owners were fleeing the country to avoid going to prison for being in debt. And it was because under the UAE’s Sharia law, being in debt is a criminal offence, so expatriates whose companies have perhaps gone belly-up, they’ve maybe missed a major regular payment without even realising it, had a cheque bounce
(deliberately or unwittingly,) or they’ve defaulted on their car’s monthly instalment, have simply fled the country to avoid doing time in the slammer. Their luxury cars from a onceglitzy Middle East lifestyle, and now dumped at airports, are impounded, held for a reasonable time to see if their owners will maybe come back, and then auctioned – with pounds currently overflowing with orphaned Mercedes, Aston Martins, Porsches, BMWs, Range Rovers, Corvettes, Audis and the odd Maserati, Lamborghini and, would you believe, Rolls Royce. There’s even a Ferrari Enzo, one of the world’s 10 fastest road cars and of which only 399 were ever produced, and reportedly worth a cool $1.5m.
■ Tourists marvel at a number of Indian “levitators” who spend their days seemingly suspended in mid-air with an arms resting languidly on top of a wooden stick on Rome’s Via degli Annibaldi – while gullible passersby happily toss Euros into a bowl in appreciation of such magic. But Aussie travel writer, Malcolm Andrews who was amongst those pondering the mystery of one levitator recently, says he was deflated when his tour guide started happily chattering away as to how such mystery was achieved. “They arrive before dawn with an associate,” the guide bubbled on. “The levitator is covered with a large blanket which also covers a mat that in turn covers a solid steel plate. The wooden stick is, in fact, an incredibly strong steel shaft attached to
Luxury cars dumped at airports, and the secret behind levitators the plate, with a cantilever hidden up the performer’s arm – and with the levitator’s robes concealing a lightweight seat also off the steel pole, and on which he sits under those robes. “After they think they’ve collected enough Euros and American dollars for the day, the associate, who has been sitting in the background, comes forward, covers the levitator with the blanket again, they pull the whole thing apart and go home to count the day’s takings.” Malcolm says he’s afraid someone is now going to tell him there’s no such thing as fairies …
Melbourne
Observer Life & Style
Never lost my love for politics
■ It seems that I have been following politics most of my life. Indeed, at one point I was asked to stand in a safe Federal seat, I declined but worked for my preferred party wherever I was asked. When I was a youngster, and wanted to listen to a serial on the radio, I was told to be quiet because Parliament was being broadcast. Later Mum introduced me to knitting and needlework, so that my time wasn’t wasted listening to the radio. It worked because I never lost my love for politics.
Yvonne’s Column
Overspending
What happened?
■ I was always conscious from a very early age, what being a Member of Parliament entailed. And dare I say, the respect, hopefully, each Member deserved. I was dragged along to political meetings in cold halls and listened to some boring speakers, but my knowledge was growing. So what has happened to politics on both sides? If a family displayed the same viciousness, childish, nasty, untruths, and indeed dishonesty we see in Parliament, the family would be deemed dysfunctional by society and sent for therapy. Why is one side so vehemently denying that Australia is indeed in big trouble with debt? Johnnie on the street knows that if your spending is larger than your income you are in deep strife.
Disrespect
■ I watch Parliament on television every day, and if I were a drinker I’d be very tempted to open up a bottle or two to drown my disappointment at what I am watching. I was hoping that the Opposition would at last admit that we had a huge debt instead of endlessly repeating that they left the country in a very sound financial condition with a AAA rating. Bill Shorten is forever being told by the Speaker to desist from calling out derogatory remarks. And if he is not doing that he is disrespecting whoever is speaking at the Dispatch Box by turning his back and loudly talking to someone from his front bench. It seems that he has nothing to contribute in answer to Australia’s huge debt. In fact, he denies that Australia has any financial problems at all despite the Government paying a billion dollars every month in interest, most of it going overseas. So, if you put your head in the sand, when all about you are using theirs, you are looking like a
I don’t think I could stand to watch the Senate in action come July. It will certainly make watching the nightly Paul Murray television program very interesting. So where will it all end? Hopefully it will soon be all over. Shaw should be wandering in the wilderness, wondering where he went wrong, and Victoria will remember that it was the Federal Labor Government that had left the country in the financial mess we are in.
with Yvonne Lawrence yvonne.lawrence@bigpond.com
noodnik in the eyes of thinking Australians. It's self-torture to watch Parliament because I get so steamed up with what I’m seeing and hearing.
Enormous ego ■ The State Parliament was a shambles. I find it hard to believe that a maverick such as Geoff Shaw can get away with thumbing his nose at both sides of the House. Surely this is contempt? Who does this man think he is? This man has such an enormous ego. He thinks that he can dictate his terms, so I wonder what he is planning for his future. . I have no doubt that Shaw is an intelligent man, and would well serve his electorate, however, with allegations levelled at him, and his erratic conduct. I believe he has gone past what would normally be expected of a Member of Parliament, and has to go. What a waste of a man who has a good brain, but his king-size ego and ambition will surely bring him down. This behavior upsets not only both sides of the House, but the people of Victoria who must be wondering who is minding the House.
Caution on Palmer ■ But there is another ‘polly’ who is causing havoc: Tycoon MP Clive Palmer. What an arrogant, bombastic, rude, and egotistical manipulator of a man. Seeing Palmer as a joke is not very bright. He is someone so dangerously erratic, he should be carefully watched.
■ Why is it that Labor has such a history of overspending? It’s incongruous that a party that is supposedly for the working man, can’t control its spending. There is something very Freudian about that. But tomorrow I will be in front of the television again, watching as each side slugs it out. Watching a lot of television was one of the benefits of being bedridden for a while after my accident. Mind you, it wasn’t a benefit when the weight started to pile on. And I’m tempted to resist the electric blanket and the thick doona this winter so that I can crawl out of bed and go for a walk. Not a long walk I hasten to add, but a short walk to the corner of the street and back. It’s amazing the changes in your street that seem to have happened almost over night. In fact, the whole street has altered since we moved in.
Lovely vegetables ■ The mansion, which stood at the end of the street, was pulled down to make way for three houses. One occupant is an Italian man who loves to garden. His vegetables are a sight to behold. When I used to walk my dogs I always seemed to catch Mario working in his garden and if I admired any flowers I came home with a bunch. It gave him so much pleasure to hear someone admire his handiwork. Well, I don’t know what has happened to him, but his garden is overrun with weeds, and I don’t see him anymore. I don’t know what I would say to him if I did see him in the garden. I’m sure it would break his heart to see his vegetable patch struggling to survive. I was hoping foxes liked tomatoes and would eat those that are withering on the vines. And I can’t hope for wild rabbits.
● Knit something warm for an animal this winter. Photo: Lost Dogs Home
Dropped bundle
■ There is one house that had a terrific garden: not a blade of grass out of place, and roses seemed to bloom all year round. It was hard to get past his house without him calling out to you to look at something special in his garden. Then I discovered that his wife had died, and he dropped his bundle and let the garden go. He came to my door one day and offered to weed my garden. He said it was lonely without his wife and he loved to garden. I didn’t take him up on his offer, but always gave him the time to talk when I saw him in the garden opposite. And now, I cross the road rather than look at his once beautiful garden and remember him with a ready smile and ready for a chat. He succumbed to dementia and his family put him in a home. He died soon after. And now his once lovely house and garden is a wreck and his family has left it to decay.
Time for knitting
■ Think I’ll take up knitting again. I stopped when I realised that I could buy an Italian jumper for far less than it cost me to buy the wool. Of course, in those days I didn’t need the therapy that knitting would give me today. And if you do like knitting and have spare wool, regardless of colour, make a few blankets for the dogs at the Lost Dogs Home. It’s very cold in those pens, and the weather added to the sadness of their owners not finding them; a cheery blanket will make them feel loved, and a lot more comfortable. Keep warm. Good karma - Yvonne Contact: Editor, Melbourne Observer P.O. Box 1278, Research, 3095.
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Page 20 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014
■ When the ITV drama series Foyle's War began on television here in Australia in 2002 my wife was an instant fan. I said I was not interested and did not have the time to devote to watching the show. But when the whole series was replayed on cable television earlier this year for some obscure reason I started watching and became hooked. I am now a fan and I am fascinated with Honeysuckle Weeks who plays Foyle's chauffeur Samantha Stewart. Honeysuckle Weeks (she was named after the flower) was born in Cardiff, Wales in 1979. Her sister Perdita and brother Rollo are also in the acting profession. Honeysuckle grew up in Sussex and started her acting career with Chichester Festival Youth Theatre. In 1993 after failing an audition for Les Miserables Honeysuckle was cast in the television series Goggle Eyes and played the role of Kitty. She had guest roles in many television shows including The Bill. In 1997 she was cast opposite her sister Perdita in the period drama The Rag Nymph. Honeysuckle was dating Hugh Grant at one stage but the relationship did not last very long. Honeysuckle loves the theatre and during her extensive stage career has played roles such as Viola in a touring production of Twelfth Night,
Whatever Happened To ... Honeysuckle Weeks By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM the Marlene Dietrich role in Witness for the Prosecution and Eliza Doolittle in Pygmalion for the Chichester Festival. She recently starred in the UK premiere of Melanie Marnich's play These Shining Lives. Honeysuckle was engaged to the poet and musician Anno Birkin for a short period before his death in a car crash in Italy in 2001. The following year Honeysuckle was cast as the character Samantha Stewart in the television series Foyle's War. Samantha is a young woman during the Second World War in the UK who becomes the chauffer for Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle. The series is set in Hastings. It has been in
● Honeysuckle Weeks
production over a period for 13 years and there have been nine seasons. Generally in a production year they make about three episodes. The good news is that a new series will be seen in 2015. Honeysuckle was nominated in the Most Popular Newcomer category at the National Television Awards in 2004. Honeysuckle married hypnotherapist Lorne Stormonth-Darling in 2007. They live in London and have a three-yearold son, Wade. She has remained good friends with Michael Kitchen who plays Christopher Foyle in the popular series. Foyle's War is currently being shown on Foxtel and Seven Two. Honeysuckle insists that she is nothing like her character Samantha Stewart and several years ago she actually went topless in the film The Wicker Tree. I think Honeysuckle Weeks is just great in Foyle's War and I am glad that I actually got around to watching the program. Can't wait for the new series in 2015. Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce & PhilSundays at 8.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12Noon 96.5FM is streaming on the internet. To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and follow the prompts.
Controversy over ‘Stolen Generation’
■ There's always been a hue and cry about the ubiquitous ‘Stolen Generations’, with controversy raging at every turn. Most Aboriginal friends of mine who were part of this, and removed from their parents, told me that it was a good thing for them. "Wouldn't be still alive, mate, if they hadn't taken me", was the gen-
eral opinion. And then there was my mate Ozzie, who was also stolen - but he was a white baby taken from his white parents and given to an Aboriginal family - "and rightly so", said Ozzie. Now there is a fresh controversy raging. According to Paddy Gibson, a senior researcher with the Jumbunna Indigenous House of
Pith And Point Music walking tours in St Kilda ■ St Kilda’s 2014 Music Walking Tours are scheduled for Sunday June 22, July 6 and 20. Headed by St Kilda rock chick Fiona Lee Maynard and punk icon and man-about-town Fred Negro, the Music Walking Tours are the brainchild of musicians Rob Wellington and Adam Johnstone, costing $40 per person, with plenty of stops and opportunity for refreshments along the way. The organisers say St Kilda’s history of local artists and musicians can’t be matched in Melbourne, Rock City. In the 1980s St Kilda was home to an explosion of bands as diverse as they were many. Indy Rock was born in the George’s Crystal/Seaview Ballroom. That heritage continued through to today. Bands and venues have come and gone but St Kilda continues to rock. Fred Negro surfed through St Kilda’s venues better than anyone and his memories of St Kilda in the late 70s are priceless. He has documented the decades in thousands of rock posters and comic strips, some of which are available to purchase at the end of the tour. He has hundreds of stories to tell, like walking naked up Fitzroy St from the Espy and getting a free beer at every bar, buying porn with Bo Diddly, and hanging out with heroes like Brian Wilson and Chad Morgan. Fred is now considered a ‘mayor of St Kilda’, where he can be found with a beer, drawing madly, in his favorite local watering holes. At the age of 15, Fiona Lee Maynard snuck into St Kilda’s rock
● Fred Negro venues and took notes, then took up the bass, wrote songs and toured Australia with Have A Nice Day and the US with her band In Vivo. She has played in innumerable bands in St Kilda and still does, with her band Fiona Lee Maynard and Her Holy Men. St Kilda Music Walking Tours explores this history and entertains with an educated pub-crawl from the George (Seaview/Crystal Ballroom) to the POW (Prince Of Wales Hotel), the Espy (Esplanade Hotel) and beyond. Tours begin at 2pm at the George Hotel on Fitzroy St, epicentreof Australia’s legendary punk scene and finish at Pure Pop on Barkly St. In between are a series of rock venues and sites of famous and infamous legend. Organiser Rob Wellington says, “We’ll show you the bullet holes, the watering holes, the blood, guts, myths and lies, from the Rolling Stones to Rowland S. Howard.” St Kilda Music Walking Tours can be followed on facebook or visit them at www.skmwt.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold
Learning, there are more indigenous children being removed from their families than at any time in Australian history - in fact five times more Aboriginal than non-Aboriginal. Many don't need to be removed, he claims. A lot of this stems not from the age old chestnuts of sexual and physical abuse - it's because of their Aboriginality per se: "Frequent travel to visit family, and overcrowding in homes when relatives' visits disrupts children's routines and stability", he said, "and the Department views this as just cause for the children's removal". He didn't mention, however, the booze and the violence endemic in these overcrowded houses. ■ I spent a lot of time with my close Aboriginal mate, Danny Goodwin. He was forever in the bush, often searching for opal, with my guidance as to what to look for. We even got to the stage of signing an official "Document of Partnership". He was a Pit Elder, and as such had certain cuts to his body, particularly in the nether regions, to indicate this. And he was in charge of "men's business" to initiate the boys to manhood with a few of these cuts, performed with a sharp rock. "I love to make them squeal!" he told me. However, whenever he needed to have any further cuts imposed upon his own body, he cheated. He admitted himself into hospital and had the appropriate incisions performed by a surgeon with his knife while he was anaesthetised. We often met at the Casino - I drinking whisky, he endless cups of coffee and Marlboros. I would always try and entice him to tell me some of his tribal stories and Aboriginal lore. "Shut up, Nick, I'm trying to watch the Keno numbers!" ■ The air waves these days are filled with people bemoaning the age of technology, pining for the distant days. Whilst there was indeed romance about the past, no matter the era, the convenience of today's technology is beyond question. My first real mobile was known as a "brick", which I used to drag around Alice Springs, with the dimensions and weight about the same as a Besser Block.
The Outback Legend
over with a spouse - obviously many of these ladies became my customers, and I developed a close friendship with many such families. I often visit the US, and on one such visit I stayed with a good friend from the Base. All of the personnel are, of course, very keen on aerospace, because that's basically what they do. So my mate told me of the Smithsonian Institute, which I had heard of, but never been to. "Especially you've got to go to the Aerospace Museum," he said. I'm not extremely interested in aerospace, but I thought I'd better go along out of politeness. I firstly checked out the National History Museum, with its creatures and gemstones, which was fascinating, and left the Aerospace to last. I ended up spending a day in a place I wasn't interested in.
with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au
■ And probably my favourite place in the world, from this perspective, is the Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson ,Arizona. My dad had a mate, Norman B. Tindale, who was probably the foremost expert on Australian Aborigines. Tinnie, as we knew him, had a mate in Tucson, Julian Hayden, who, I was informed, was a wealthy Southerner, and he wanted to buy some opals. So on my next trip over there, off I flew down to Arizona. "Just like our Outback" I thought. I could have been in the desert around Alice Springs. It turned out that Julian wasn't such the wealthy gentleman - he was a anthropology lecturer at Arizona University, specialising in ancient Indian relics. He would often camp out in the Pinacate Desert in nearby Mexico, investigating old campsites. And rather than a mansion, he lived in a rambling adobe - mud brick home. A fascinating man he was, and we became instant and firm friends. He was also on the board of the aforementioned museum, and he showed me around. What a place. All the desert creatures, including a walk-through hummingbird aviary, which I loved, and an exhibit comparing the uncanny similarities between Australian desert wildlife with that of Arizona and Africa. I've been back a couple of times since - always in awe.
It was powered by a motor bike battery. I used to look at it with pride and say to myself: "I can call anybody anywhere in the world whilst walking down Todd Mall". That was over 20 years ago - look at what has happened now. Then, I reflect on my great-grandfather, who came to Australia via sailing ship in 1837. Once his mother left to travel back to England, and they sadly knew that they would never see each other again. And the only communication they could have was for a letter via the same route - sailing ship. So, he could pen a note, give it to the captain, and about six months later, provided the ship didn't sink, or pirates didn't attack, it would arrive. She could read it, and reply. Then another six months for him to get it. Yep, technology is a blessing for all of us. ■ There are about 500 US residents permanently residing in Alice Springs, personnel at Pine Gap - the "Spy Base" as it is colloquially known. Most of the citizens who work there come
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014 - Page 21
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Page 22 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Victoria Pictorial
Taxis For our nostalgia collection
● Taxi rank, Swanston St, outside Flinders Street Station
● Taxi stopped beside Melbourne tram. 1950s.
● Taxis and trafic during a tram strike in Melbourne. 1954.
● Associated Taxi Service.
● Arrow Taxi Service driver. North Melbourne. 1988.
● Taxi at Go-Gas Richmond, 1979
● Taxi alongside South Melbourne Beach tram. Melbourne.
● Inb the depot’s cafeteria on pay day (Wednesday). 1988.