Melbourne Observer. 120215C. February 15, 2012. Part C. Pages 39-60.

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 37

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www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

F-bombs galore in premiere play at La Mama ■ La Mama presents the Australian premiere of Huzir Sulaiman's Cogito until February 19 at the La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton.

Skilfully staged in the round by director Suzie Hardgrave, the venue acoustics risk causing some inaudibility when actors turn away to deliver dialogue.

Huzir Sulaiman's intense dialogue invites the audience to hinge on every word. The narrative tells of Katherine Lee having read in a newspaper of the assassination of her husband Tony Szeto, a highly prized Singaporean biomedical scientist. She also discovers she is not Tony's only wife and arranges to meet the other woman, Katherine Two. We discover there are three Katherine Lees, two in physical form, plus Katherine One's voice as the subconscious, who all intriguingly know about each other's lives.

Glenda Linscott articulately portrays Katherine One and Kristin Keam presents a delightfully down-to-earth Katherine Two. Newly arrived Katherine Three is played with stylish elegance by Suzy Cato-Gashler and Frank Handrum believably depicts lawyer Lex. Linda Harper's costume detail for Katherines Two and Three is superb.

Unfortunately, while there is always a place for effective use of the ‘F word’, there is unnecessary overuse in Katherine Three's dialogue, detracting from the impact of an otherwise powerful script.

The play finishes with two Katherine Lees and you will need to see Cogito yourself to reach a conclusion. Lex points out, “The mind and body is one, thoughts are bodies, bodies are thoughts.” So, are there three, two ... or only one?

Performances: Until February 19 Times: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday at 6.30pm, Saturday at 8.30pm Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton.

Tickets: $25 Full, $15 Concession Duration: 60 minutes Bookings: www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142 ★★★ La Mama also presents Schism until February 19 at La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond Street, Carlton.

Written by Western Australian playwright Melanie Bainbridge and performed as a solo performer theatre piece by her sister, Pippa, Schism is presented in the round under the directorial expertise of Suzie Hardgrave.

The story tells of twins separated at an early age as a result of a diagnosed disorder, who experience a schism of conscience. One twin has an overactive conscience and cares so passionately for the environment that she wants to destroy living life to allow the world to regenerate. The other twin did not receive a conscience at all, and craves power and wealth.

Both twins are scientists and we realise the paradox of one wanting to kill humanity to save the world, while the other researches cancer to save human life.

Pippa Bainbridge does great work depicting the two twins, instantly transforming into the contrasting characters and working solidly onstage for almost an hour.

Melanie Bainbridge's terrific script informs, entertains and offers food for thought (without resorting to using one ‘F word’!).

Casey-Scott Corless has designed the clever minimalistic set surrounded by laboratory streak plates, with first-class lighting and sound by Rebecca Etchell and Skye Klein respectively.

Congratulations to the Bainbridge sisters on devising and presenting Schism and all good wishes for future collaborative projects.

Performance season: Until February 19 Times: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday at 6.30pm, Thursday and Saturday at 8.30pm Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St., Carlton.

Duration: 60 minutes Tickets: $25 full, $15 concession.

Bookings: www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142 - Reviews by Cheryl Threadgold

Radio Confidential: The latest radio news .... Page 36 Veritas: More strife at MTR 1377 .................... Page 37 The Spoiler: Next week’s ‘soaps’ plotlines ............ Page 39 Jim and Aaron: Best DVD-film selections ................. Page 40 Cheryl Threadgold: Community Theatre - it’s a wrap ...... Page 41 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD

GYPSY MUSIC!

● Karavana Flamenco rehearses for the Karavan International Gypsy Music Festival on February 25 at The Corner Hotel, Richmond.

■ Musiktrafik presents the biggest gypsy party in the Southern Hemisphere - Karavan! International Gypsy Music Festival, 2012. on Saturday, February 25 at The Corner Hotel, 57 Swan St., Richmond.

Rolling into town for its third season this year, Karavan! will bring with it the most exciting and diverse line up yet.

The line up in Melbourne features Baro Banda from Istanbul, DJ Click (France) and The Crooked Fiddle Band from Sydney.

Melbourne favourites include The Band Who Knew Too Much, Vardos, Systa BB, Karavana Flamenco and Byzantine Blues.

Tickets: $40 (plus $3 booking fee) Door $50 Full $45 Conc (if available) Bookings: cornerhotel.com 9427 9198.

- Cheryl Threadgold

The Mousetrap ● By Julie Houghton ■ One of my most treasured possessions from a brief trip to London a couple of years ago is a black T-shirt, emblazoned in red with The Mousetrap.

I joined the thousands of people over the past then-58 years who had made the trek to London's West End to see Agatha Christie's record-breaking mystery play, The Mousetrap.

Initially, I was sceptical about whether this was simply a lurk to get the tourists in, but it wasn't long before I was caught in the trap, mesmerized by this gripping play, full of red herrings but with the usual surprise Agatha Christie ending.

So I'm delighted that in order to see it again, I don't have to make the trek back to the Old Dart, because to celebrate its Diamond Anniversary it's coming to Melbourne at the lovely old Comedy Theatre from August 30 until October 7.

It seems it's the year for Diamond Anniversaries, another high profile English identity has also celebrated one recently ... but I digress.

Turn To Page 47

ABC wins at Kidscreen awards ■ ABC TV this week took home two 2012 Kidscreen Awards from New York - and received more nominations than any other broadcaster in the awards across all categories.

ABC3’s landmark drama series My Place, series 2, won the Best Non-Animated or Mixed Series award and ABC4Kids popular Giggle and Hoot hosts, Jimmy Giggle and Hoot, won the Best On-Air Host or Hosting Team Award.

The Kidscreen Awards are among the most prestigious awards for the international children’s television industry and are part of its annual summit, attended by 1600 executives and producers from 42 different countries.

Tim Brooke-Hunt, Controller of ABC Children’s Television, said: “These awards confirm the high regard in which the Australian children's TV industry is held internationally, and reflect great credit on Matchbox Pictures and other producers.”

In addition to these two awards, ABC TV and its commissioned productions were nominated in the following categories: ■ Best Companion Website – Bananas in Pyjamas (ABC TV) ■ Best Non-Animated or Mixed Series – Dance Academy (Werner Film Productions) ■ Best Channel Design – ABC4Kids· ■ Best Channel Website – ABC4Kids (www.abc.net.au/ abc4kids)

Page 38 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Observer Showbiz

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria

NO LICENCE FOR 77 DAYS

Country Crossroads

MILDURA STATION FLOUTS THE LAW

info@country crossroads.com.au ● Big Breakfast Show.

Southern FM 88.3.

Tues. 6am-9am. ● Country Crossroads.

Casey Radio 97.7.

Wed. 10pm-12 Midnight

All aboard for Nova Rob Foenander

COUNTRY HONOUR

■ Peter Ellis from Bendigo was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in this years honours list for service to the arts through the collection and preservation of Australian folk history and heritage.

He founded the Bush Dance and Music Club of Bendigo in 1979 and has subsequently been made a life member. He also founded the Emu Creek Bush Band and was a member for 30 years and has been a member of the Wedderburn Old Timers Orchestra for 32 years.

KERNAGHANS UNITE

■ Ray Kernaghan, patriach of the famous Australian country music family, has joined forces with daughters Tania, Fiona and youngest son Greg in a new song.

The collaborative effort is titled Is It Goodbye Aussie Farmer? and calls on all Australians to support Australian Made - Australian Grown.

The song can be downloaded on Itunes.

JOSH AIELLO’S SINGLE

■ Eighteen-year-old Melbourne country artist Josh Aiello is certainly an up and comer worth keeping an eye on.

His new single Always Be Dancing was recorded as part of the Uncovered Kool Skools project with a video release in production.

The single adds to the other seven written songs Josh has already recorded towards his debut album.

● Max Thorburn COURTESY: ABC

■ ABC Local Radio Mildura has saluted Max Thorburn whose effort of broadcasting an independent radio station for 77 days without a licence, brought independent radio to the region in the 1980s.

The Australian Broadcasting Tribunal disallowed an application of the community station, so Thorburn decided to transmit programs anyway.

Authorities seized the transmitter, the tape recorder and the tape that was playing at the time. He was fined $1.

The licence was eventually granted in 1991.

Ads on BBC

■ Advertisements are about to be sold on the BBC World Service radio channels.

The BBC Trust has approved the moneymaking plan for i9ts global channels for a year-long pilot scheme, hoping to raise £3 million. ● My Kitchen Rules contestants Kate and Carly Cheung joined Nova 100 breakfast show pair Dave Hughes and Kate Langbroek on the City Circle tram broadcast. ● Sydney radio man Alan Jones (second from right) is starring in the harbour city’s production of Annie.

Will a Melbourne radio man be signed to fill the same role when the show opens at The Regent in Melbourne?

Jones is pictured with showbiz reporter Angela Bishop, her mother Bronwyn, and Channel 7’s Craig Bennett.

SATURDAY NIGHT COUNTRY

■ The latest in the ABC's Saturday Night Country series of compilation albums has been released.

The CD features all of the Aussie Country music well knowns including Lee Kernaghan, Beccy Cole, James Blundell and a track from the host Felicity Urquhart.

The most popular tracks aired on the show are featured on the CD and is available at ABC shops.

-Rob Foenander

r Observbei z Show

Wednesday, February 15 ■ Australian entertainer Roy Rene ‘Mo’ (Henry van der Sluys) was born in Adelaide in 1892. He died aged 62 in 1954.

Graham Kennedy was born in 1934. He died aged 71 in 2005.

Football identity Neale Daniher was born in Ungarie, NSW, in 1961 (51).

■ Has there ever been a Gold 104.3 news bulletin that has gone to air without the annoying message “But first ...”, introducing the sponsored traffic update?

■ Who is the third voice on the Brig & Lehmo Show on Gold 104.3? Veritas is yet to hear the ‘stars’ share the spotlight.

● Brig and Lehmo

More power ■ Kilmore community radio station OKR-FM has increased its transmission strength through the Mitchell Shire, north of Melbourne.

The station broadcasts on the 98.3 FM frequency.

But first ...

Jolly good fellow

■ Mick Malthouse, now carving a career as a 3AW commentator, is about to become a Vice-Chancellor’s Fellow at La Trobe University.

“Individual, organizational and community leadership have been core to my professional life and are also a major part of the success of students and local communities,’ says Mr Malthouse.

Vice-Chanceller Professor John Dewar says La Trobe is entering partnerships with schools, sports clubs, and local leadership initiatives.

Melbourne

Observer

On This Day Thursday, February 16

Friday, February 17

Saturday, February 18

Sunday, February 19

Monday, February 20

Tuesday, February 21

■ Singer, and politician, Sonny Bono was born in 1935. He died aged 62 in 1998.

Patty Andrews, a member of the Andrews Sisters, was born in 1918 (94).

US tennis player John McEnroe was born in Germany in 1959 (51).

Actress Lisa Loring was born in 1958 (54).

■ Folk poet Andrew ‘Banjo’ Paterson was born in NSW in 1864.

He died aged 76 in 1941.

British actress Patricia Routledge was born in Cheshire, England, in 1929 (83).

US singer-songwriter Gene Pitney was born in 1940. He died aged 66 in 2006.

■ Sports commentator Rex Mossop was born in 1928. He died aged 83 last year.

Director-producer Milos Forman was born in Czechoslovakia in 1932 (80).

Artist and musician Yoko Ono was born in Japan in 1933 (79).

Actor John Travolta was born in 1954 (58).

■ English actor Dick Emery was born in England in 1918. He died aged 65 in 1983.

Actor Lee Marvin was born in New York in 1924. He died aged 63 in 1987.

Prince Andrew was born in 1960 (52).

Actress Zoe Carides was born in Sydney in 1962 (50).

■ Fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt was born in New York in 1934 (88).

Actor Sir Sidney Pottier was born in Miami, Florida, in 1927 (85).

Football commentator Neil Kerley was born in South Australia in 1934.

Actress Lisa Hemsley was born in 1968 (44).

■ Actor Kelsey Grammer was born in the Virgin Islands in 1955 (57).

American actor Christopher Atkins was born in New York in 1961 (51).

US actor William Baldwin, younger brother of Alec, was boprn in New York in 1963 (49).

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

Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 39

Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler BRIAN, MOIREE REMEMBERED Media

ShowBiz!

For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Home and Away ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven.

■ Monday, February 20. As Sonya frets over the results of her fertility tests, Toadie plays the wise and supportive partner; Kate still refuses to come home, and Sophie takes her fate into her own hands.

■ Tuesday, February 21. When Susan discovers Sophie’s missing, Callum can’t help but feel worried for his friend; desperate Paul looks for Sophie; Sonya tries to take Toadie’s mind off his fertility issues.

■ Wednesday, February 22. Kate and Sophie realise they’re better apart; Rhys gets concerned when he suspects his superior, Jessica, is developing a romantic interest in Karl.

■ Thursday, February 23. Paul struggles to convince the DHS he’s fit to be Sophie’s guardian; Jade finds a unique way to show Kyle how she feels about him.

■ Friday, February 24. Unable to stop thinking about Michael and their kiss, Emilia attempts to talk to him about their feelings for each other; seeing no option, Summer decides to repeat year twelve.

■ Variety,the Children’s Charity, each year honours its first patron Brian Naylor and his wife Moiree, who tragically lost their lives in the 2009 Black Saturday Bushfires.

The four recipients of the 2012 Brian and Moiree Naylor Memorial Educational Scholarships are: ■ Alexander Franklin, Whittlesea Secondary College, ■ Hannah Davey, Diamond Valley College, ■ Emma Walters, Alexandra Secondary College, ■ Chelsea Quilliam, Yea High School The Brian and Moiree Naylor Scholarship provides funding of up to $30,000 annually and is awarded to students from the five secondary schools affected by Victoria’s 2009 Black Saturday bushfires.

The funds are to be used to further recipients’ education and tertiary studies.

Flashes

Top 10 job for Lachlan

● Brian and Moiree Naylor

Veritas Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic

Donna’s 20 years

■ ACP Magazines' parent company is in talks to sell it to Pacific Magazines owner Seven West Media, The Australian Financial Review reports.

More strife at MTR

■ Senior ranks of Rupert Murdoch’s The Sun (London) have been arrested over corruption allegations.

Home and Away ■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7.

■ Monday, February 20. Struggling to cope with Charlie's death, Ruby continues to push everyone away, Romeo is reluctant to continue his career path in sales and John pressures Dennis to return his investment.

■ Tuesday, February 21. Roo takes a tough love approach with Ruby, April and Dex start to rebuild their friendship and Brax signs up for a dangerous cage fight.

■ Wednesday, February 22. Leah struggles to keep her distance from Brax, April is upset with Heath for lying to her, and Bianca tries to reason with April over Heath. The ladies rally around Irene to try and find her a new hobby.

■ Thursday, February 23. Bianca and Liam struggle to keep the surprise news of their pregnancy a secret. The investigation into Stu's murder leads the Police to Dex and Xavier. Irene attempts to get on with her life and has a go at karaoke.

■ Friday, February 24. Casey is furious after Tyler lands a job at the Caravan Park, Gina learns the truth about John's lost investment and Roo vows to never work with Harvey again. As the investigation into Stu's murder continues, Dex and Xavier are suspects.

Magda comes out ■ Actress Magda Szubanski is supporting a public campaign in support of gay marriage.

Her statement was issued yesterday (Valentine’s Day). ”I am 1000 per cent in favour of gay marriage.

We pay taxes, fight wars for this country, nurse you when you are sick, make you laugh, sing and dance for you, play netball for you, star in your movies,” she said.

“And, chances are, gay people designed whatever it is you’re wearing.

“All Australians, including gay Australians, should have exactly the same rights, including the right to love, marry and take care of our partners.

“The law means that you could be a serial killer and have killed all of your spouses and yet you would still be considered fit to marry,” she said.

“But if you are gay, then you are not worthy of these same rights.” ”The law as it stands is unfair and it needs to be changed to reflect the wonderful, tolerant, live-andlet-live society Australians have created.”

■ Lachlan Murdoch has been confirmed as Chairman of the Ten Network. He replaces Brian Long Murdoch acted as CEO throughout last year. New CEO James Warbur ton has joined the Board. ● Lachlan Murdoch ■ FHM magazine - once one of the most dominant brands in the men's magazines sector - has suffered one of the biggest circulation drops in Australian media history. It has lost half of its circulation, from 50,154 to just 26,026.

● Donna Demaio with Marina Prior ■ Donna Demaio celebrated 20 years at 3AW on Monday this week (Feb. 13). It represents a quarter of the life of the radio station which celebrates its 80th anniversary on Wednesday next week (Feb. 22).

■ Matthew Rodmond from Melbourne has taken the position as Announcer/Promotions at Snow FM. The station is currently seeking a new Program Director, reports Greg Newman of Jocks Journal.

Observer Special Reader Offer

CD: Matthew Field ‘Love Story’ ● Steve Price, MTR 1377 Program Director ■ The two joint-venture partners at Melbourne Talk Radio MTR 1377 are in serious dispute over the future of the fledgling station.

John Singleton’s Macquarie Radio Network has served a ‘Notice of Breach’ on Melbourne-based Pacific Star Network, which owns the licence of the 1377 frequency.

Macquarie alleges PSN is in ‘material breach’ of the ‘Owners and Contributors Deed’ of Melbourne Radio Operations Pty Ltd, which operates MTR. Macquarie says PSN has failed to procure its representatives to vote to approve a budget for the business.

PSN’s representative earlier described the proposed budget as “unsustainable”. It called fror more information and a more comprehensive assessment of the proposals tabled to support the budget.

Pacific Star says this information was not forthcoming.

“The draft budget inferred critical changes to the business plan of Melbourne Radio Operations Pty Ltd, whjich required assessment and agreement in their own right,” said PSN Chairman Andrew Moffat.

“Macquarie Radio Network’s represntatives ... expressed reluctance to source independent legal advice relating to those critical business decisions that are required to implement the budget.”

MTR has already disbanded its Melbourne newsroom.

$20 including postage and handling Melbourne pianist Matthew Field has released his latest CD, Love Story. The CD includes 13 great tracks: Lady Di Columbine Dance Medley - Souvenirs D’Enfance and Marriage D’Amour Easy Winners Rondo Alla Turca Medley - Jardins Secret and Coleur Tendresse Moonllight Sonata Tenderly The Man I Love Les Roses De Sable Ballad Pour Adeline Somewhere In Time Medley - Murmures & Love Story You can obtain this CD for $20, including postage and handling

Simply send the form below. All orders will be despatched promptly after cheque/ money order clearance.

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Page 40 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Observer Showbiz DVD & Blu-Ray Release Of The Week

● Viola Davis as Aibileen Clark FILM: THE HELP: Genre: Drama/Comedy.

Cast: Viola Davis, Jessica Chastain, Sissy Spacek.

Year: 2011.

Rating: M. Running Time: 146 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ****1/2 Verdict: Superbly executed drama of an aspiring author during the civil rights movement in 1960s Mississippi who decides to write a book detailing the African-American maid's point of view on the white families for which they work, and the hardships they go through on a daily basis, but not before everyone in town has a thing or two to say themselves when they become unwittingly, and unwillingly, caught up in the changing times. This is not Alan Parker's searing Mississippi Burning or Norman Jewison's In The Heat of the Night, but a none the less up there in this equally compelling, intelligent, thought-provoking, tragic and even humorous tale of racial discrimination and redemption. Outstanding cast excels in this richly detailed emotional tale brimming with excellent 1960's recreation and well deserved Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Viola Davis as Best Actress, a certain to win, and Jessica Chastain and Octavia Spencer each for Best Supporting Actress. A winner!

OTHER RELEASES: FILM: THE THING: Genre: Science Fiction/Horror.

Cast: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton.

Year: 2011.

Rating: MA15+.

Running Time: 103 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ** Verdict: In Antarctica a group of scientists unearth a spaceship and alien, a shape-shifting creature that has the ability to turn itself into a perfect replica of any living being [it's a shame it didn't land on Parliament House in Canberra], and the paranoia spreads like an epidemic among a group of researchers as they are each infected, one by one, by the mystery from another planet. Billed as a prequel to John Carpenter's 1982 science fiction horror classic The Thing, this is nothing more than a remake, a sloppy, miscast and unintelligent clone that tries to capture the intensity and chills of the original with a touch of Alien thrown in for good measure, the only mildly redeeming moment is at the end, and that is interrupted by credits. This a case of what could have been, not what is.

FILM: JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN: Cast: Rowan Atkinson, Rosamund Pike, Gillian Anderson, Dominic West.

Genre: Comedy.

Year: 2011.

Rating: PG. Running Time: 101 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ** Verdict: Rowan Atkinson returns as the bumbling secret agent who must stop a group of international assassins before they eliminate a world leader and cause global chaos. After his first outing in the dismally unfunny Johnny English in 2002, I thought with hopeful optimism that things could not get any worse upon announcement of the sequel, and it doesn't, but it doesn't get any better either, as the tired old repetitious spy gags and scenes are wheeled out yet again and are a total misfire.

Rowan Atkinson is one of Britain's comic legends, but what he needs here is another scriptwriter and director, among other things, and even though the overall production values are high, and with an scene stealing performance by The X-Files star Gillian Anderson, I strongly recommend that you go for Carry On Spying, a Pink Panther movie, or the 1966 spy parody Casino Royale instead, which is a masterpiece by comparison.

- James Sherlock

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Movies, DVDs

With James Sherlock

Reviews by ‘Birthday Boy’ Aaron Rourke

OSCAR SNUBS

■ With the Oscars screening here on Monday February 27, this year certainly is a mixed bag of nominees.

The follwing is a list of people and films who were unlucky not to be nominated.

■ Drive. This superb 1970s-style thriller was ignored, and deserved nods for Best Film, Director (Nicolas Winding Refn), Actor (Ryan Gosling), Supporting Actor (Albert Brooks), Cinematography, and Editing.

■ The Descendants. This wonderfully touching drama does have a number of nominations, but Shailene Woodley deserved a nomination for Supporting Actress, and veteran Robert Forster also should have been recognised for Supporting Actor.

■ The Beaver. Mel Gibson can consider himself very unlucky not to be nominated for Best Actor for his extraordinary performance, as can Kyle Killen for his original, incisive screenplay.

■ J. Edgar. Leonardo DiCaprio was excellent as Hoover and is a surprise absentee for Best Actor, as is Armie Hammer for Supporting Actor. Also missing is Clint Eastwood for Best Director for his fluid, intelligent work.

■ The Ides Of March. Surprisingly light on Oscar nominations, this absorbing drama could have easily been nominated for Best Film, Actor (Gosling again), Director (George Clooney), and Cinematography.

■ The Tree Of Life. Scored three nominations, but deserved many more, including Supporting Actor (Brad Pitt), Supporting Actress (Jessica Chastain, who is far better here than what she was in The Help), Sound, Music Score, and Editing.

■ Take Shelter. This brooding drama had an outstanding central performance by Michael Shannon, who should have been nominated for Best Actor. Also deserved a nod for Cinematography.

■ Higher Ground. A challenging film about faith and independence, this impressive directorial debut by actress Vera Farmiga deserved recognition for Best Director and Actress (both for Farmiga).

■ 13 Assassins. A huge, worldwide critical success, it is absolutely amazing that this wasn't nominated for Best Foreign Film, and definitely deserved nominations for Best Director (Takashi Miike), Actor (Koji Yakusho), Cinematography, and Editing.

■ Another Earth. Low-budget gem, this fascinating sci-fi/drama deserved nominations for Actress (Brit Marling), Original Screenplay, and Music Score.

■ Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. Has two nominations, but how director Tomas Alfredson failed to score a nomination is a complete mystery.

Also deserved nominations for Cinematography and Editing.

■ Margin Call. One of the nicest surprises of the year, this precise, wellmeasured drama also deserved nods for Best Director (J.C Chandor) and Supporting Actor (Jeremy Irons).

■ The Guard. The film itself was fun if somewhat uneven, but Brendan Gleeson was brilliant as the title character, and deserved a nomination for Best Actor.

■ We Need To Talk About Kevin. De-

● Ellen Page spite the film's rather over-the-top approach, Tilda Swinton was exceptional, and surprised everyone for not being nominated for Best Actress.

■ The Woman. This brutal social satire/battle-of-the-sexes was overlooked for Supporting Actress (Pollyanna McIntosh) and Adapted Screenplay.

■ Super. Under-rated black comedy about a vigilante superhero, this deserved a nomination for Supporting Actress, for Ellen Page's vibrant, hilarious work.

■ Essential Killing. Vincent Gallo's incredible, non-verbal performance should have received a nomination for Best Actor.

■ I Saw The Devil. First-rate work

by Kim Ji-Woon, Choi Min-Sik, and Mogae Lee should have earned them nominations for Director, Supporting Actor, and Cinematography respectively.

■ Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes.

The end result may have been a CGI creation, but the work done by Andy Serkis through motion capture technology is what made Caesar such an involving character, and should have garnered him a nomination for Supporting Actor.

■ The Yellow Sea. This compelling, draining drama/thriller deserved nominations for Best Foreign Film, Director (Na Hong-Jin), and Supporting Actor (Kim Yun-Seok).

■ The Borrower Arrietty. This beautiful charmer from Studio Ghibli should have been nominated for Best Animated Film.

■ Rebirth. The moving, heartbreaking performance by Hiromi Nagasaku as a woman who bonds with the young girl she kidnaps is a towering achievement, and is more than worthy of a Best Actress nomination.

■ Villain. As a lonely woman who becomes attracted to a murderer, Eri Fukatsu's sterling work deserved a nomination for Supporting Actress.

Films that were unlucky not to be nominated in the Foreign Film category are Milocrorze : A Love Story, The Front Line, The Last Circus, Kidnapped, Troll Hunter, Tales Of The Night 3D, The Unjust, and Poetry (which also deserved to be nominated for Best Director and Actress).

- Aaron Rourke

● Aaron Rourke

Melbourne

Observer

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. CHRONICLE. 2. THE DESCENDANTS. 3. UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING. 4. A FEW BEST MEN. 5. TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY. 6. HUGO. 7. SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS. 8. THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO. 9. JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND. 10. MAN ON A LEDGE. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: FEB 9: ANY QUESTIONS FOR BEN, SAFE HOUSE, SHAME, STAR WARS: EPISODE I - THE PHANTOM MENACE (3D), THE VOW, EK MAIN AUR EKK TU. FEB 16: THIS MEANS WAR, BUCK, MY WEEK WITH MARILYN, ONE FOR THE MONEY, THE GREY. THE DVD TOP SELLERS: 1. THE HELP [Drama/Viola Davis, Jessica Chastain, Sissy Spacek, Octavia Spencer].

2. CRAZY STUPID LOVE [Comedy/ Romance/Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore].

3. THE THING [Horror/Science Fiction/Joel Edgerton, Mary Elizabeth Winstead].

4. LOVE AND OTHER DRUGS [Comedy/Romance/Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway].

5. FOOTLOOSE [Drama/Dennis Quaid, Andie MacDowell, Julianne Hough].

6. TREE OF LIFE [Drama/Brad Pitt, Sean Penn].

7. THE HUNTER [Drama/Willem Dafoe, Sam Neill].

8. RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES [Sci-Fi/Action/James Franco, Andy Serkis, John Lithgow].

9. FRIGHT NIGHT [Horror/Comedy/Colin Farrell, Toni Collette, David Tennant].

10. THE HANGOVER: PART II [Comedy/Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, Paul Giamatti].

Also: FINAL DESTINATION 5, ZOOKEEPER, CAPTAIN AMERICA: The First Avenger, BOARDWALK EMPIRE: S1, RED DOG, COWBOY'S & ALIENS, THE ONE, THE GUARD, BRIDESMAIDS, SUPER 8.

NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: TRESPASS [Thriller/Nicolas Cage, Nicole Kidman].

THE DOUBLE [Thriller/Richard Gere, Martin Sheen].

PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3 [Thriller/Lauren Bittner, Katie Featherstone].

NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: None Listed for This Week.

NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: Joanna Lumley's NILE. PETER USTINOV ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS. PAUL MERTON IN INDIA. PAUL MERTON IN EUROPE. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC: Australia's Hardest Prison Lockdown Oz - Casuarina WA. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC: Australia's Greatest Flood - 2011 Queensland Floods. To Page 55

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 41

Observer Showbiz TOWER SUITES ■ Arts House presents the world premiere of Tower Suites from February 22 - 26 at the North Melbourne Town Hall.

Tower Suites is created, directed, choreographed and performed by Australian leading dancer/choreographer Ros Warby, and is the delicate blend between a trio of performers with the choreography of dance, sound, film and light, observing the subtle layers of hierarchy in relationships through historical references and personal experiences.

The work draws attention to the often confused attempts in navigating the delicate terrain of human behaviour, incorporating the creation and collapse of worlds and structures people build in these situations.

The visual elements in Tower Suites provide an insight into the individual smallness or overpowering largeness into the creation of relationships in society and the developed values (and possible inaccuracies) of these highly established perceptions.

Other performers include Helen Mountfort (cello) and Ria Soemardjo (voice).

Venue: Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne Season: Wednesday, February 22 – Sunday, February 26 Time: Wed – Fri, 7.30pm; Sat 3pm and 7.30pm; Sun, 5pm.

Duration: 50 minutes no interval.

Tickets: Full $30 / Conc $25 Bookings: artshouse.com.au or 9322 3713

PEOPLE

Community Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

‘MAN ALIVE’ AT MALVERN SHOWS ■ Malvern Theatre Company: Man Alive (by John Dighton) February 17- March 3 at 8.15pm Tues-Sat, 2.00pm February 18, 26 at 29a Burke Rd., Malvern. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Tickets: $20/no concession. $18 groups 10 plus. Bookings: 1300 131 552. www.malverntheatre.com.au

Lady Chatterley’s Lover

■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: The 39 Steps February, 17, 18 at 8pm at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation St., West Geelong. Director: Kelly Clifford. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 5225 1200 www.geelongrep.com.au ■ Eighteen Twelve Theatre: Lifetimes (a selection of one act plays) February 16 - 18 at The Bakery, 3 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Bookings: 9758 3964 or 0406 752067. www.1812theatre.com.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Moonlight and Magnolias Until February 25, Tues-Sat at 8.15pm, Sundays 5.00pm, final Saturday matinee 2.00pm at 2-4 Albert St., Williamstown. Bookings: 9885 9678 www.wlt.org.au ■ The Basin Theatre Group: Tuesdays With Morrie (by Mitch Albom and Jeffrey Hatcher) February 17 - March 10 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Christine Grant. Tickets: $22. Bookings: 1300 784 668. www.thebasintheatre.org.au

And The Birds Fell From The Sky

● Luke Steward,artistic/musical director/ performer/musician in Myths and Hymns.

■ Myths and Hymns, with music and lyrics by Adam Guettel, is being presented from February 16 - 25 at 8pm at the Revolt Melbourne Artspace, 12 Elizabeth St., Kensington.

Presented by Groove Tonic, Melbourne, Myths and Hymns is the central feature of Luke Steward's Master of Applied Theatre Studies degree. He will participate in the show as Artistic Director, Musical Director, performer and musician, playing piano, cello and bass guitar, whilst remaining in character.

This masterful collection of songs explores the cyclical nature of our lives in relation to the path of Saturn, suggesting that at our 29th year we have the chance to reflect on our life's journey thus far and set ourselves on a course for the next stage of our lives.

The challenging one act ensemble work is being presented in a fusion performance, featuring actors and musicians who have the dual responsibility of not only acting, but also providing the musical accompaniment while portraying central characters. This often involves moving between the two roles within a song.

Director Emily Paterson is recreating Luke Steward's vision into reality and the cast includes Victor Brincat, Natalie Calia, Ryan Leahy, Julie Marr, Stephen McMahon, Lucy Brien, Renee Pope-Munro and Luke Steward.

Luke says "I wanted to create a product that was interesting and engaging to an audience, but also challenges the performers, offering them the chance to demonstrate their skills.

Guettel's work is generally recognised as being notoriously difficult, but when you get it right, it has an incredible musicality and uniqueness."

Performances: February 16, 17, 18 22, 23, 24, 25 at 8.00pm Venue: Revolt Melbourne Artspace, 12 Elizabeth St., Kensington. Bookings: 9376 2115 or online at www.revoltproductions.com

Melbourne

Observer

■ Arts House presents And the Birds Fell From the Sky: Kidnap The Audience - They Are The Fourth Wall, from February 29 to March 18 at the North Melbourne Town Hall.

And the Birds Fell From the Sky, Il Pixel Russo, combines the creative forces of theatre director Silvia Mercuriali and film maker Simon Wilkinson , resulting in an autoteatro film performance joyride, where the audience is crammed into a car with three Faruk clowns , all the way to the edge of civilisation.

Autoteatro explores a new theatrical technique, where an audience of one or two members escape realism and are invited to this performance style to use simple technology and instructions that form the basis of script ... there is no actual ‘audience’ beyond the other participants.

Armed with video-goggles and MP3 players, the participants follow clear audio instructions for dialogue and action, which is mirrored simultaneously in the film and allows for interaction with the other characters immersed in a sensory atmosphere of odours and physicality.

The linear narrative of And the Birds Fell From The Sky is a journey inside the audience’s mind as they are kidnapped by a group of Faruk clowns and ultimately meet their own Faruk version of themselves.

Escapism is taken to a whole new level as participant’s lose sense of their real physical location and embrace the fictional environment created in And the Birds Fell From The Sky. Venue : Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall, 521 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne Season: Wednesday, February 29 – Sunday, March 18 Time: Every 15 minutes between: Wed– Fri, 2.30pm– 4.30pm and 6pm–9pm; Sat 1pm–4pm and 5.30pm–8.30pm; Sun, 1pm–4pm and 5.30pm–7.30pm.

Duration: 20 minutes no interval.

Tickets: Full $15 / Conc $10 Booking: artshouse.com.au or 03 9322 3713

● Jamieson Caldwell (Oliver Mellors) and Claire Nicholls (Lady Chatterley) in a romantic scene from Lady Chatterley's Lover, playing at Ripponlea until March 8.

■ The Australian Shakespeare Company is presenting Lady Chatterley’s Lover at Ripponlea until March 8. Ripponlea is a perfect back drop and you certainly feel you are being transported to another era. Audience members carrying their picnic hampers are able to soak up the glorious atmosphere.

The novel, Lady Chatterley’s Lover, was written by D.H Lawrence and published in 1928. Constance’s aristocratic husband, Clifford, has been paralysed and declared impotent.

Constance’s frustration leads her into an affair with the handsome gamekeeper.

This play is adapted and directed by Glenn Elston. Due to the vastness of our surrounds, the audience may feel removed from the intimacy of the piece. Glenn has the challenge of bringing the classic to and entertaining a new audience.

Six vibrant young actors have been cast. The leading lady, Claire Nicholls, is consistent as the frustrated and confused Lady Chatterley. Jamieson Caldwell portrays Mellors, the gamekeeper and the ladies in the audience agreed that he was cast well as the physically perfect object of Lady Chatterley’s desire.

Nudity is integral to this work, and bravo to the actors who have the daunting task of being at their most vulnerable.

Whilst it may not live up to the expectations of D.H Lawrence purists, the audience certainly enjoyed themselves.

Lady Chatterley’s Lover is performing at Ripponlea House and Gardens, 192 Hotham Street, Elsternwick; Monday to Thursday at 7pm.

Tickets are $40 for adults, $35 concession and $25 for under 18’s. Call 1300 122 344 or book through Ticketmaster. Cash sales can be made at the on-site box office, unless sold out.

- Debbie Keyt, guest reviewer

SHOWS ■ BLOC Musical Theatre: Zombie Prom February 16, 17, 18 at 8.00pm and February 18 at 2.00pm at the Helen Macpherson Smith Theatre, Camp St., University of Ballarat, Ballarat. All tickets $25. Bookings online www.blocmusictheatre.com.au ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: The Lion in Winter February 23 - March 10, Thurs to Sat at 8.00pm, with 2.00pm matinees on February 26 and March 4 at 36 Turnham Ave., Rosanna. Bookings: 9457 4117 www.htc.org.au ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Albert Nobbs February 23 March 10, Tues-Sat at 8.00pm, Sunday matinees at 2.15pm at the Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Wilson St., Brighton. Director: Eric Heyes. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 9589 0005. www.brightontheatreco.com More on Page 47

Cheryl Threadgold on 3AW ■ Non-Pro Theatre columnist Cheryl Threadgold is heard weekly on 3AW Melbourne Overnight program hosted by Andrew McLaren. Cheryl presents a segment with the latest community theatre news at 12.45am Wednesdays.

Page 42 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

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Things To Do

Saturday - Mini Pipe Band competition and solo piping and drumming

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 43

Things to Do

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Page 44 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Things To Do

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 45

Fishing and Boating

ALL NEW Episodes! RIVER TO REEF TV SHOW - FISHING, BOATING, LIFESTYLE Wednesday nights on Foxtel’s Aurora Channel 183 @ 8.30pm Thursday nights on Ch 31 (digital 44) at 9.30pm www,rivertoreef.com.au

Page 46 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Fishing and Boating

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 47

Continued from Page 41`

Observer Showbiz AUDREY AND SEYMOUR

● Jess Rawlins (Audrey) and Brad Ericson (Seymour) in the Cardinia Performing Arts Company's production of Little Shop of Horrors.

Photo: Lee Geraghty ■ The Cardinia Performing Arts Company (CPAC) is delighted to be celebrating its 10th anniversary with the popular production Little Shop of Horrors, from February 25 to March 9 at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Blvd., Pakenham.

Based on the movie starring Rick Moranis and Steve Martin, CPAC's production of this comedic science fiction spoof is directed by Lee Geraghty, choreographed by Robert Mulholland, with musical direction by Tony Toppi.

Performances will be on February 25, March 3, 9 at 8.00pm, March 8 at 7.00pm (all tix $25), and February 26 and March 4 at 2.00pm.

Tickets: Adults $30, Conc. $27, Children U15 $25, Family (2 adults and 2 children) $100 Bookings: 0407 090354 or www.trybooking.com

LA BOHEME

Community Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

Melbourne

Observer

THE ITALIANS ARE COMING

■ I Musici, the Italian ensemble that made The Four Seasons so popular decades ago is coming here as part of its 60th anniversary tour, on their only Melbourne concert at Monash University's Robert Blackwood Hall on Wednesday, February 22 at 7 30 pm.

Several decades ago, I Musici made a legendary recording of The Four Seasons. The line up of I Musici has changed over the years, but it remains the premier Italian string ensemble and becoming part of it is considered one of the highest musical honours.

President of I Musici, and one of its viola players, Silvio di Rocco, said that the orchestra is very excited about coming to Australia: "Last time I Musici played in your country was some 30 years ago, and that is such a long time ago! Australia represents a sort of enchanted country, not only because of the distance, but the nature, the landscape the beautiful sea … how can I say? Australia itself is an authentic wonder of nature."

I Musici was founded six years after the end of World War II, and Silvio said that at the time, people were deeply wounded

and desperately seeking some medicine for the soul.

"I Musici's music has a unique sense of what I call 'breathing fresh air'. Listening to The Four Seasons gives you a sort of spiritual wellness." Silvio said.

At the February 22 concert, I Musici will play their famous Vivaldi's The Four Seasons, plus works by other Italian masters including Rossini, Paganini and Donizetti.

Parking at Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, is free and the Robert Blackwood Hall bar and adjacent coffee shop are open before the concert. There is also a free pre-concert talk at 6.45pm for those who would like to know a bit more about what they will hear.

"Our goal is always to build an emotional bridge between us and the people in the hall, bringing them with us in a beautiful journey around the music, reversing the roles and acting as if we are the hosts and the public our guests!"

Tickets from $40 from www.monash.edu/mapa or 9905 1111 - Julie Houghton

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS SHOWS ■ Cardinia Performing Arts Company: Little Shop of Horrors February 25 - March 9 at the Cardinia Performing Arts Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham. Bookings: 0407 090354 www.cardiniaperformingarts.com

Parade

■ Sherbrooke Theatre Company Inc: Play in a Day (various authors and directors) Performances: Saturday, February 25 at 7.30pm. Tickets: $15. Bookings: 1300 650 209. www.sherbrooketc.org.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): The Mousetrap March 1-10 at 8.00pm. 2.00pm matinee March 4 at the Strathmore Community Centre Theatre, Cnr. Loeman and Napier Sts., Strathmore. Director: Drew Mason. Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 9382 6284 or www.stagtheatre.org/reservations

AUDITIONS

● Angela Hogan (Musetta) centre, and Roger Howell (Benoit) seated at left, rehearse with the cast of Melbourne Opera's La Boheme, opening on March 3 at the Athenaeum Theatre.

■ Melbourne Opera opens its 10th anniversary season with Puccini's ever-popular La Boheme on Saturday, March 3 at the Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St., Melbourne.

The season will conclude with a Gala Performance in Monash University's Robert Blackwood Hall on March 31.

Directed by Hugh Halliday, Melbourne Opera has assembled an outstanding cast for La Boheme with Greg Hocking conducting the Melbourne Opera Orchestra and Chorus.

Set in Bohemian Paris in the 19th century, La Boheme tells the tragic story of the love between Mimi, a seamstress and Rodolfo, a poet.

Their friends Marcello and Musette have a far more volatile relationship, but all are united by the power of young love.

La Boheme contains moving and perennially popular music such as Your Tiny Hand Is Frozen, They Call Me Mimi and Musetta's Waltz Song.

Performances: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St., Melbourne. March 3, 7, 10, 14, 17 at 7.30pm and March 18 at 2.30pm. Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University. March 31 at 8.00pm Bookings for both venues: www.melbourneopera.com or Ticketmaster.com.au 9650 1500

AUDITIONS ■ Mooroolbark Theatre Group: My Three Angels (by Sam and Bella Spewack) February 16 at 7.00pm at the Mooroolbark Community Centre, Brice Avenue, Mooroolbark. Director: Arline Myers. Audition bookings: 9726 4282.

■ Moreland Theatre Company Inc: Twelfth Night (by William Shakespeare) February 20 and 23, 7.00pm - 10.00pm at St Ambrose Hall, Dawson St., Brunswick (opp. the Brunswick Baths). Director: Sam Browne. Audition bookings and enquiries: 0438 804 042.

■ Altona City Theatre: The Boy From Oz February 20, 21, 22, 25 at the Hobsons Bay Community Workshop Facility, 280 Queen St., Altona. Audition bookings: 9398 5588 www.altonacitytgheatre.com.au ■ ARC Theatre Company: Jekyll and Hyde February 25, 26 from 10.00am, February 28 from 7.00pm, Movement Audition on February 29 at the Banyule Theatre, Heidelberg. Director: Jason Vikse; Musical Director: Simon D'Aquino. Audition Bookings: 0451 116894 or email auditions@arc-theatre.com ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: An Inspector Calls (by J.B. Priestley) February 26 at 6.30pm and February 27 at 7.00pm.

Director: John Jenkins. Enquiries: johnthegonz@gmail.com ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Scrubbers (written and directed by Cenarth Fox) March 4 and 5. For full details refer to website www.stagtheatre.org

MOUSETRAP ● From Page 37 ■ Christie's classic 'whodunit' opened on London's West End in November 1952 and has played more than 24,000 performance - it's the longest running show of any kind in the world, and is still playing at St Martin's Theatre, where I saw it.

Originally written as a radio play called Three Blind Mice and broadcast in 1947, Christie rewrote it for he stage as The Mousetrap, and it has never been adapted for film, thereby allowing the tradition of not revealing the ending to endure.

I well recall the excitement when a cast member stepped forward on the stage of St Martin's Theatre, and solemnly informed the audience that we were part of a very special club of people who had seen The Mousetrap, and we were sworn to secrecy not to reveal the ending.

The strange thing was that I took this to heart, and to this day I can't recall 'whodunit', because I want to keep that secret!

You can join in the fun and find out for yourself 'whodunit' in September and early October. Casting and ticket details are yet to be announced.

- Julie Houghton

● Charles E. C. Grounds (Frankie Epps) and Taylor Branecki (Mary Phagan) rehearse for the Victorian premiere of Parade, opening on March 2.

Photo: James Terry ■ Waterdale proudly presents the Victorian premiere of the American musical masterpiece Parade, with lyrics and music by Jason Robert Brown, from March 2, 3, 8, 9, 10 at 8.00pm and March 4 at 5.00pm at the Rivergum Theatre, Parade College, 143 Plenty Rd., Bundoora.

Set in 1913, Parade tells the true and tragic tale of Leo Frank, a Brooklyn-born Jew living in Georgia, who is put on trial for the murder of 13 year old Mary Phagan, a factory worker under his employment.

Already guilty in the eyes of everyone around him, a sensationalist publisher and a janitor's false testimony seal Leo's fate.

His only defenders are a governor with a conscience and, eventually, his wife Lucille, who finds the strength and love to become his greatest champion.

Jason Robert Brown worked with the Donmar Warehouse theatrical group to make changes for a reworked edition, while director Aimee Fraser is enjoying the reworked version after performing in a version of the original show.

Musical Director Ian Nisbet will be writing his Masters thesis on the compositional techniques of Parade composer Jason Robert Brown.

Tickets: $24/$20. Bookings: waterdale.org.au/parade

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Page 50 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Melbourne

Observer

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Travellers’ Good Buys

with David Ellis

The bridge that stopped a President ■ When British businessman Sir Chay Blyth decided in 1997 to organise a rowing race across the Atlantic from England to America, he thought he’d publicise it by having some of the participants row up the River Thames to St Katherine’s Dock, including passing under the iconic Tower Bridge.

But he didn’t quite expect the publicity his little promotion would create – particularly in splitting a security convoy that had been weeks in the planning into two parts, and subsequently leaving one of the world’s most powerful men, America’s President Bill Clinton on one side of the Thames, and most of his forward bodyguards and other security men on the other.

One of the rowing team’s sponsors had taken some VIP clients aboard a little luxury yacht called Gladys to watch their team pass up the river.

And has been tradition since the Tower Bridge was built a couple of centuries ago, when Gladys reached the bridge, and her masts were too tall to pass under, the operator raised its double-drawbridge roadway to give the yacht clear passage.

But President Clinton was returning late and behind schedule to the American Embassy from a lunch with British Prime Minister Tony Blair at a restaurant on the banks of the Thames – and to the horror of his forward security detail who had already crossed the Tower Bridge and cleared

● UK London's Tower Bridge

Observer Wines & Liqueurs Melbourne

with David Ellis

Chadonnays make their comeback ■ Wineconsultant, tutor, critic and author, Rob Geddes noted recently that Aussie Chardonnays are making a come-back, after falling off the rails in the 1990s and their sales being hammered further by rising star Sauvignon Blanc.

Rob blames the Chardonnay demise on makers here following the Californian experience and coming up with what he calls their “Dolly Parton-style – full-bodied, up-front and with everything on show.”

In brief, he says, “they were overscented, thickly textured and laden with toasty oak.”

As we know sales of our Chardonnays spiralled downwards over the past decade, but Rob says we’ve learned our lesson and Aussie Chardonnays today are more likely to be more elegant, lean and streamlined.

And certainly one that falls into that category is Cumulus Estate’s 2011 Rolling Chardonnay that’s possibly the best that their winemaker Debbie Lauritz has ever produced.

Made from fruit from the company’s vineyards on the Central Ranges and at Orange NSW, this is a Chardonnay that’s elegant with finer than usual fruit flavours ranging through citrus, white stone-fruits and riper tropicals, and with some acidity and a wonderful mouthfeel.

At $17.95 enjoy this new-look Aussie Chardonnay with grilled lemon chicken.

■ Smaller than average crops in the Hunter Valley in 2010 produced some wonderfully intenselyflavoured fruit for winemakers, and one stand-out drop that resulted from this was Mount Eyre Vineyards’ 2010 Three Ponds Merlot.

A wine with generous dark berry fruit flavours and some nice soft tannins, it’s a lovely drink now but will develop further complexity over the next ten years if you’d like to tuck it away.

If more interested in enjoying it now, pay $22.95 and share it on the table with almost any red-meat dishes.

■ New-look Aussie Chardonnay to enjoy with grilled lemon chicken.

■ Invest for the cellar, or team this one now with almost any red-meat dishes

traffic for the President’s safe journey, the bridge suddenly opened behind them for yacht Gladys ... exactly on a scheduled time previously agreed to by the Embassy.

A fuming Bill Clinton was left on one side of the Thames, and most of his security men on the other.

When asked how the bridge could have been opened at such a delicate moment, even though the President was late-running, a spokesman for the bridge told London media: ”We tried to contact the American Embassy, but they wouldn’t answer their phone.”

The Tower Bridge was the second bridge built across the Thames in the centre of London, the first being London Bridge, made famous by the nursery rhyme “London Bridge Is Falling Down.”

The Tower Bridge was built in the second half of the 19th century during a boom in commercial activity in London’s east, and to get around the long detour over London Bridge and a haphazard ferry services.

A competition for its design attracted 50 entrants, and after several years of argument a winner was finally named – that eventual winner, incidentally, turning out to also be one of the judges.

Yes, well … Two huge towers were built in the river itself and joined by two bascules (or draw-bridges) that could be raised to allow river traffic to pass.

The towers were connected to the shore by mini-suspension bridges.

There were also two walkways between the tops of the 65m towers that are now used as a museum and a spot from which to take spectacular photos of the Thames and nearby London landmarks.

Construction began in 1886 and the bridge was opened eight years later by the Prince of Wales.

It cost £1.2 million – the equivalent of $A160 million in today’s currency.

Its design attracted much criticism, including such snide remarks such as “it represents the vice of tawdriness and pretentiousness” and “a more absurd structure than the Tower Bridge was never thrown across a strategic river”.

There is no such disapproval today... although President Clinton’s security chief would doubtless not agree.

To celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II in 1977, the bridge was re-painted from its dull brown to red, white and blue...and that’s the way it’s been ever since.

Some 40,000 people cross the Tower Bridge every day – local pedestrians, motorists, cyclists and, of course, the multitude of meandering tourists.

And buses, one of which, a doubledecker, in 1952 was on the bridge deck when it suddenly started to rise.

It’s claimed one of two warning bells for traffic had not been rung, and showing true Bulldog spirit the bus driver, Albert Gunter planted his foot on the accelerator and drove across the growing already metre-wide gap – landing two metre below on the opposite bascule, which had not yet started to rise.

Next time you are visiting London make the Tower Bridge a must – and recall the Day It Stopped A President

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 51

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Travel Extra

The Pavilions, Port Douglas Fact File

The Pavilions Port Douglas your place in paradise!

Boutique holiday accommodation in Port Douglas Australia.

NAME: The Pavilions, Port Douglas ADDRESS: 35 Macrossan St, Port Douglas, Qld 4877 PHONE: (07) 4099 4888 FAX: (07) 4099 6025 CONTACT: Stephen Warden WEB: www.thepavilions.com.au E-MAIL: info@thepavilions.com.au

Just a one hour very scenic drive north from Cairns International Airport.

As the Accommodation is located in the heart of Port Douglas you are only a short stroll away from everything in Port Douglas - beautiful 4 Mile Beach, 5 star restaurants, boutique and international designer shops, the eclectic Sunday market to the fabulous Marina Mirage.

- 4 Star - Boutique Holiday Apartments - In the Heart of Port Douglas - Walk to Beach, Shops, Dining & Marina - Studio, 1 & 2 Bedroom Accommodation - All have Spa Baths & Private Balconies - Wireless Internet Available Example: 2 BEDROOM ACCOMMODATION - dual key Comprised of 1 Bedroom & Studio Apartments King size bed/twin Spa bath Air conditioning & ceiling fans Private Terrace with ceiling fan Television, Cable, DVD and Data Phone ADSL Wireless Service Kitchen/ette including fridge, microwave and hotplates Room Safe, Hairdryer, Iron Apartment serviced weekly

Page 52 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

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Lovatts Crossword No 2 Across

1. Full of vitality 6. Took a break 11. Soothes (fears) 15. Protecting 20. Red-rind cheese 21. Actor, Ryan ... (1'4) 22. Solemn promise 23. Solid ground, ... firma 25. Anglican church caretaker 26. Ethics 27. Public persona 29. Mania 32. Hind section 34. Ruler, Genghis ...

36. Innocently 39. Colorado ski resort 41. Alexandria is there 43. Titled ladies 46. Lessened 48. Hair dye 49. Madam (2'2) 51. Hideous monster 52. Replanting with trees 55. Long story 56. Arrests 59. Beginning 61. Moderate, ... down 62. Ancient musical instrument 63. Skirmish 64. Sadder (state) 67. Women's court sport 68. Legitimately 70. Japanese hostess 71. Obtained (funds) 72. Womb 73. Academy Awards 74. News stories 75. Encloses 77. Proclamation 78. Comes in 79. Behaviour 82. Simpler 86. Jewish language 87. Biblical son of Isaac 89. Minor planets 92. Gambling chances 94. Acute anxiety 96. In a frenzied state 98. European defence pact 100. Caravan itinerant 101. At a distance 103. Requirement 105. Gallows rope 106. Oil producers' cartel 108. Contest of honour 111. Nursery rhyme, Three Blind ...

112. Utterly exhausted (4,4) 114. Discouraged 116. Domestic helper 119. Actress, ... Thompson 120. Ukraine capital 121. Belonging to that 123. Writer, ... Blyton 124. Restore to health 125. Spectators 126. Senior citizen 127. Gentlest 130. Typist's complaint (1,1,1) 131. Hollering 135. Scrapes (knee) 138. Dad 139. Metal pen-points 141. Premonitions 144. Coal mine waste 146. Food enhancer (1,1,1) 147. Excessively formal 148. Sense of self 149. Established (foundations) 150. Golfing body (1,1,1) 151. Devil's abode 152. Improvised (4,2) 153. October stone 155. Feed (fire) 157. More orderly 158. Twig shelter 160. Atlantic or Indian 161. Huffs 162. Throw up 163. Reside 165. Even further delayed 166. Famous record label (1,1,1)

Across 167. Argentina's ... Peron 168. Yellowish-brown pigment 169. Rush off 171. Nimble 172. Donor 175. Tribal emblem 176. Religious statue 179. Squirm in pain 180. Crowd brawl 182. Wine, ... spumante 184. West Indian music 185. Pop group, Bee ...

186. Kangaroo pouch 188. Germination pod 189. Gearwheel tooth 190. Sixty minutes 191. Crack army force (1,1,1) 193. US space organisation 194. Deal with 196. Cereal bowl 197. Trimmed of fat 198. Aroma 200. More scrumptious 205. Wrath 207. City roads 210. Gorged oneself 211. Last day of April 212. Amongst 213. Leading 214. Household fuel 216. Spoken exam 218. Hordes 219. Was obliged to pay 220. In so far (as) 224. Political stirrer 227. Adversaries 229. Optic organs 230. Valley 231. Happen 232. Mad Roman emperor 233. Data 235. Remove (tape) from VCR 237. You 239. Cheeky smile 241. Skewered meat 244. Great Bear constellation, ... Major 246. Scenery 249. Leer 252. Straight (route) 254. Charted 256. Scattered 258. Of long duration (3-3) 259. Cavalry spear 260. Vigilantly 263. Short period 264. Synagogue scholars 265. Make untidy (4,2) 267. Huts 270. Administer 271. Slid 272. Win 273. Nuclear agreement (4,3) 274. Small herring 277. Liberated 279. Graven image 281. Distributed (cards) 284. Sinks in middle 286. Ark builder 288. Luxuries 292. Power group 294. In present condition (2,2) 295. Fork spike 298. The Suez ...

300. English tennis champ, Fred ...

301. Gaze 303. Boats' spines 306. Thickly 308. Test run 309. Blemish 311. Chunkier (stew) 314. Disorder, cerebral ...

315. Screen legend, Marilyn ...

316. Finance in advance 317. Honourably 318. Fond of, ... on 319. Nazi government, The Third ...

320. Nothing 321. Peevishness 322. Alcove 323. Moved furtively 324. Bed cover

Down 1. Do breaststroke 2. Lamented 3. Garden entrances 4. Brief 5. 12-months 6. Despoil 7. Nailfile (board) 8. Fasten (bolt) 9. Legendary kingdom, El ...

10. Take up again 11. Nearly 12. Robbery 13. Egg centres 14. Dress ribbons 15. Beef-cut for stock 16. Senseless 17. Disregard alarm clock (3,2) 18. Tick over 19. Elapse (2,2) 24. Glimpse 28. Work team 30. Irish sweater style 31. Identify 33. Weirder 35. Maxims 37. Windmill arm 38. Part of ear 40. Bridge-player's bid (2,6) 42. Spurs 44. Polar 45. University compositions 47. Concur 48. Risked 49. Mortuaries 50. Helping 53. Yacht's mooring cushions 54. Treated badly (3-4) 57. Seabird with large wingspan 58. Fluctuates 60. Cotton tops (1-6) 63. Detective story 65. Porridge flakes 66. Proportional, pro ...

68. Decoy 69. Scottish lake 76. Plane terminal 79. Silent 80. Bare 81. Perfume, ... toilette (3,2) 83. Brisbane suburb & racecourse 84. Internal 85. Decompose 88. First animals in dictionary 90. Shade of colour 91. Frosted (biscuits) 93. Tottering 95. Drawing pin 97. Incessantly (2,3,2) 99. Word formed from initials 100. Pleased 102. Dummy pass 104. Waned 107. Danger 109. Author, ... Bronte 110. Bullets 111. Non-glossy 113. Powerful light (3,4) 115. Elevate in rank 117. Spicy lentil dish 118. Futile (attempt) 121. Tel Aviv native 122. Side benefit (4-3) 127. Revolving tray, lazy ...

128. Froths 129. Greatest 132. House seller (6,5) 133. Dormant 134. Rainwater channel 135. Least rough 136. Lack of awareness 137. Most swift 138. Blazed trail 140. Deliverance 141. Vehicle distance gauges

Down

142. Capture spirit of 143. British military academy 145. Collects 151. Sack material 154. Spanish friend 156. Addicts 159. Conger or moray 164. Bustle 169. Battle 170. Large pitchers 173. Prickling 174. Baby birds of prey 177. Desist 178. Approaches 181. Foolish 183. Melting 187. Firebugs 192. Firmly securing 195. Standard 199. Inventor 201. Weaponry 202. Carry-on (2-2) 203. All set 204. Charmer, ... fatale 206. Say 207. Employees 208. Deciduous trees 209. London underground 213. Bump into 215. Prosecutor 217. Appearance 221. Take a nap 222. America, ... Sam 223. Chile's tip, Cape ...

224. Singer's solo 225. Narrow bay 226. Quarrel 228. Swedish tennis ace (5,4) 234. Views 236. Bike rider 238. Radio hobbyist 240. Charged particle 242. UK country 243. Speak to 245. Abating 247. Changed suitably 248. Spirit medium 250. Mouth cosmetic 251. Commercials 253. Chore 255. Discontinued 257. Refuses to (3,1) 258. Your school, ... mater 261. Consumable 262. Mood 265. Intimidate 266. Damascus is there 268. Uplift 269. Vendor 275. Peel (apple) 276. Snakes 278. Make bigger 280. Climb down 282. Compass point 283. Exist 285. Carbonated drink 287. ... & nail 289. Euphoric drugs 290. Topped with breadcrumbs, au ...

291. Sprites 292. Called (of donkey) 293. Part of shoe 296. Ward off 297. Stockings fibre 299. Not anybody (2-3) 302. Stun 304. Lodge deeply 305. Store for future use (3,2) 306. Fall 307. Subsequent 308. Anti-flood embankment 310. Door handle 312. ... of Capri 313. Peruse

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 53

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Page 54 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Healthy Living

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 55

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 40

FOR AND AGAINST Travel Extra

● China Thames Town replica british village ■ Thames Town looks as jolly the in-laws. But this hasn’t come British as its name implies: walk about and Thames Town – deits streets and you quickly learn spite being dubbed locally Ghost the traps of cobblestones, fash- Town – is the closest to coming ion boutiques rub shoulders with to success. a pub that pumps real ale, the And this modest success is houses and villas are classic not because some people in Georgian and Victorian, the town overcrowded Shanghai took the square sports a statue paying trib- plunge and moved the 30km “into ute to Sir Winston Churchill, and the countryside,” but because if you’ve forgotten your mobile many older, more-affluent Chiphone there are enough red nese have bought houses and phone boxes to make that urgent apartments there as rental investcall home. ments.

And if you want to feel the But most are empty, even grass under your toes there’s a though Thames Town is within nice little town green on which to the boundaries of Songjiang New do so, while with luck you may City and adjacent to Songjiang be on time to see the Changing University Town that has no of the Guard at the entrance to fewer than seven universities atthis quintessential market town – tended daily by 70,000 students and if you’re looking for some- and staff. where unusual to tie the knot, But it’s attracting quite a few there’s even the Gothic-style tourists, both local Chinese and Christ Church in which to do so, from overseas to gawk at it’s alplus a four-star hotel to celebrate most eccentricities, shop in its in afterwards. boutiques, dine in its EnglishThe only thing that’s askew is style eateries, drink in the “Enthat this ever-so-British-looking glish pub,” have a cuppa at the Thames Town, that’s complete oddly, if not prophetically-titled down to a traditional fish and chip Incomplete Coffee shop, and even shop and street signs showing stay overnight in the four-star High Street, Oxford Street, Liston Hotel.

Queen Street and similar, is anyAnd at weekends happy-snap thing but British.

Chinese wedding couples who Because rather than sitting use the replica Gothic-style comfortably alongside Old Fa- Christ Church to tie the knot. ther Thames, it in fact sits beHappy-snappers also clickside a man-made river in China. away at a healthy sprinkling of And rather than the busy com- statues around the town that pay munity its creators envisaged homage to dignitaries such as Sir when they built it in the mid- Winston Churchill, royalty in1990s, Thames Town is more cluding Princess Diana, British Ghost Town with most of its book and movies icons like Harry houses and apartments empty, its Potter, and take a stroll along the shops largely devoid of custom- man-made ‘Thames River’, dine ers and its streets eerily quiet. in a floating restaurant, and takeIt’s part of a Chinese in the tranquillity of parks with takeaway scheme that hasn’t shady trees… quite clicked, those who conThey even find an Englishceived it believing it would help style club, a supermarket, medialleviate the massive over- cal clinic and a kindergarten – crowding of China’s largest city, all of them under-utilised.

Shanghai that has a population And as Thames Town is a of over 23 million (just a tad more kind of gated community, they than Australia’s entire population can watch the daily Changing of 22.8-million.) of the Guard, at the entrance to And in fact Thames Town this unusual community. Tourists was just one part of a grand visiting Shanghai can take the scheme titled One City, Nine train from the city to either Towns that would see nine new Songjian New City or Songjiang communities created in an arc University Town and catch a loaround Shanghai – each of them cal bus or taxi to Thames Town a copy-cat of typical small towns that’s just 4km from both centres. in rural England, Italy, Spain, Australia’s Wendy Wu Tours America, Holland, Germany, have independent packages to Sweden, China itself, and as an Thames Town and can add them architectural whimsy, an “eco- to tours beginning or ending in logical town” called Lingang. Shanghai.

Each would house up to Details from www.wendy 10,000 people, hopefully up- wutours.com.au or 1300 727 wardly mobile younger and 998. For general information wealthier Chinese wanting to get about Shanghai: www.meet-inaway from being cooped-up with shanghai.net

■ The thought of not having horse racing on a Monday, has been met with mixed reaction.

Industry leaders have given qualified support to the idea, but did have some reservations.

The Trainers and Jockeys' Associations as well as the Thoroughbred Racehorse Owners' Association, welcomed the initiative Racing Victoria suggested recently.

RVL is still assessing whether it would be viable to introduce a race-free day for the 2013-2014 season.

Tabcorp is providing figures on what a race-free day would mean financially, and if it would be covered by having two county meetings on the same day.

The ideal situation in my opinion would be to run two meetings on the Sunday one North, one South or one East and one West.

For instance: Sale and Ballarat on the same day, or Bendigo and Mornington, or Cranbourne and Ballarat.

This would cover all areas, and be easier for trainers and jockeys to plan their day.

I am sure that trainers and jockeys would appreciate a day off, especially those hoops that are married giving them a day to be with their families.

I know they don't have to ride every day, or a trainer to place his horses.

However it is an extra earn for not only jockeys and trainers, but the owners who put in their hard earned to get something back.

Victorian Jockeys Chief Executive, Des O'Keefe, hit the nail right on the head when he asked "what does a free day constitute?

Jockeys would not want having to front up to 25 trials at Cranbourne on a day off.

Likewise with other tracks who run Monday trials.

JohnAlducci, CEO of the Victorian Branch of theAustralian Trainers Association said a no-racing day would ease the burden on trainers whose day had been extended.

On top of this there had been an increase in twilight meetings this season and night

Ted Ryan

racing. Night racing will increase to 33 meetings, with Cranbourne having their first meeting on March 9.

It is pretty tough on trainers and jockeys alike, when there is a race meeting say at Sale on Friday and they have to get to Moonee Valley for the night meeting.

Right, they don't have to ride at both tracks, but a lot of the jocks are stable riders and have to follow what connections want.

There is certainly plenty of talk at the moment, let's hope it can be all sorted out for the sake of those participating in our popular industry.

In the meantime Racing Victoria has decided to re-instate six of the Saturday country meetings it removed from the winter calendar.

This means there will be a Saturday meeting in the country every other week during winter.

Cup today ■ As we hit the streets with the Melbourne Observer today, crowds are sure to be flocking to the picturesque Mornington Racetrack for the 2012 Centrebet Mornington Cup, which always attracts a class field to contest the popular event.

I have pleasant thoughts of triple winner, Gunnamatta wining the coveted event

for local trainer, Tony Noonan.

There will be plenty of action on course away from the racing, with Fashions On The Field and plenty of entertainment for the children and only a half hour down Eastlink.

I am working there on the day on the P.A. at the main gate, hope to see you there.

Packages ■ Young Members attending the Blue Diamond Stakes Day, will be looked after in the prestigious Hiskens Grandstand with sweeping views of the home straight.

An exciting group package has been put together by the MRC, which includes aglass of French Champagne on arrival, and complimentary canapés from 2-3 pm.

DJ Entertainment, including Nick Foley, entry and limited transport to the exclusive after party and much more.

Top 10 Lists TOP BLU-RAY SELLERS: 1. THE HELP [Drama/Viola Davis, Jessica Chastain, Sissy Spacek, Octavia Spencer].

2. CRAZY STUPID LOVE [Comedy/Romance/ Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore].

3. THE THING [Horror/Science Fiction/Joel Edgerton, Mary Elizabeth Winstead].

4. TREE OF LIFE [Drama/Brad Pitt, Sean Penn].

5. LOVE AND OTHER DRUGS [Comedy/Romance/Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway].

6. FOOTLOOSE [Drama/Dennis Quaid, Andie MacDowell, Julianne Hough].

7. THE HUNTER [Drama/Willem Dafoe, Sam Neill].

8. FRIGHT NIGHT [Horror/Comedy/Colin Farrell, Toni Collette, David Tennant].

9. RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES [SciFi/Action/James Franco, Andy Serkis, John Lithgow].

10. THE HANGOVER: PART II [Comedy/Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, Paul Giamatti].

Also: Zookeeper, Spy Kids 4, Boardwalk Empire S1, Captain America: The First Avenger, Cowboy's & Aliens, Red Dog, Final Destination 5, The Guard, Bridesmaids, Super 8.

NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON 3D Edition, DVD and Blu-Ray. TRESPASS [Thriller/Nicolas Cage, Nicole Kidman].

THE DOUBLE [Thriller/Richard Gere, Martin Sheen].

PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3 [Thriller/Lauren Bittner, Katie Featherstone].

- James Sherlock

National Celtic Festival ■ The National Celtic Festival will be held over the winter long-weekend at Portarlington.

Planning is underway for this year’s 10th anniversary celebrations marking a decade for the festival at its Bellarine Peninsula home.

Early bird tickets went on sale on February 1. National Celtic Festival director Una McAlinden returned to Europe this month as the only Australian delegate invited to take part in the annual Showcase Scotland event held in Glasgow.

Showcase Scotland is held as part of Celtic Connections, Glasgow’s annual folk, roots and world music festival, which celebrates Celtic music and its connections to cultures across the globe.

The five-day long event allows record labels, media, agents and other festival and music industry representatives the chance to sample some of Scotland’s finest musical talent.

Ms McAlinden was invited to be one of 180 delegates from 21 countries as a result of her successful visit last year to the Interceltique Festival in France, where she networked and promoted the National Celtic Festival to the world’s Celtic community.

Ms McAlinden said she looked forward to enriching the National Celtic Festival experience while promoting the Bellarine region to the world.

SOME VRC MEMBERS DO THE WRONG THING ■ The VRC was a little disappointed with a small number of members doing the wrong thing over the Melbourne Cup Carnival by transferring their non-transferable membership cards for use by others.

How ridiculous can you be, with your photo I.D., on the membership card?

VRC Vice Chairperson, Amanda Elliott said "There were very few instances of misbehavior during the Carnival; we were very pleased with the behaviour of the majority of members and their guests".

Page 56 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

Won in a breeze ■ Kialla trainer Dave Farrar's exciting Mach Three/ Silkari Star 4-Y-0 gelding Attackamach had nothing more than "a stroll in the park" to land the Carolyn Boyd Big 50 - VHRSC Provincial Cup (4th heat) for C1 class over 2190 metres.

With regular reinsman Nathan Jack in the sulky, Attackamach led throughout from gate three to win in a breeze over the dead-heaters Chess Timer which trailed and Life Savings (three back the markers) in a rate of 2-00.

First win for the season ■ Bendigo based Clinton McSwain's handy Lombo Mandingo/My Petite Lombo filly Miz Lulabell Lombo chalked up her 3rd victory (first this season), when successful in the Workforce On Tap - A Programmed Company 3-Y-0 Pace over 1690 metres at Shepparton.

Beginning with a wing on every foot from gate five, Miz Lulabell Lombo led throughout to score in a rate of 1-57.8 from the first starter Mistress Manhattan which trailed and We Never say Die from three back in the moving line.

Power Of The Trotters ■ Maiden Gully trainer David Van Ryn combined with Leigh Sutton aboard 4-Y-0 Pegasus Spur/Villa Glory gelding Sir Pegasus to land the Power Of The Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2100 metres at the St Arnaud meeting held at Charlton on Friday.

Leading out from barrier two, Sir Pegasus was never headed in accounting for the 30 metre backmarker Another Clare which raced in the open and Allawart Ugo who trailed the winner. The mile rate 2-05.3.

Smart gelding’s double ■ Dick and Raeleene Howarth's very smart 4-Y-0 Jet Laag/Whata Western gelding Airzone made it two from two this time in, when successful in the God Pace for C3 & C4 class over 1609 metres.

Restrained from gate four to settle near last with the pole marker Superstar Xpress leading, Air Zone moved forward three wide solo at the bell and despite looking to be under pressure approaching the home turn with The Red Opal travelling strongly inside him, rallied on straightening to score narrowly in a rate of 1-58 from The Red Opal and Our Mick Ison (four wide on the home turn) after following the winner home.

Out for three months ■ Melton based reinsman Darren Pace is another to join the list of sidelined reinspersons following a nasty accident prior to the start of the Ballarat Meat Company Pacers Handicap at Ballarat on Wednesday.

Darren was tipped out of the cart of an uncontrollable One Tough Reign, suffering severe ligament damage and is likely to be off the scene for at least three months.

This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Wednesday - Diamond Valley@Melton/Nyah, Thursday - Warragul/Echuca, Friday - Maryborough/Melton, Saturday - Geelong, Sunday - Bendigo, Monday - Stawell, Tuesday - Sebastian@Melton.

Horses To Follow ■ Hung Jury, Whispering Alm, Taw, Algeepee, Spring Fly, Well To Do Lombo, Mistress Manhattan, Authenticate, Armbro Expo, Tessanzo.

- Len Baker

GATH STABLE RETURNS TO FORM ■ Long Forest husband and wife Andy and Kate Gath have experienced a turnaround in stable form and produced their third winner in the space of five days, when 4-Y-0 S J's Photo/Whitney Grace gelding Elegant Image scored in the SEW-Eastern Zone Trotters Handicap (1st Heat) for T0 or better class over 2650 metres at Yarra Valley on Monday February 5.

Slowly away from the 20 metre mark, Elegant Image settled six back along the markers, with the sole front marker Mister Scorcher leading easily, before taking a trail on the 40 metre backmarker Earl Or Nothing.

Coming away from the markers approaching the bell, Elegant Image was accommodated by Mister Scorcher also moving off the inside to give him a charmed one/one passage for the final circuit.

When Mister Scorcher got the better of the leader on turning, Elegant Image (three wide) pounced, drawing away in the shadows of the post to register an impressive 1.5 metre victory in 2-05.3, with Red Hot Special (three back the markers) running his usual honest race for third.

With the luck still running, the pair brought up a double after 4-Y-0 Art Major/Leading Lady gelding Silent Prowl greeted the judge in the Bayswater Senior Citizens Club Pace for C1 class over 1650 metres in a rate of 1-56.9.

Trapped wide from gate five before settling outside the leader Relentless Advance (gate two), Silent Prowl outstayed his rivals to score by 6.9 metres in advance of Stylish Jasper from mid-field, with Relentless Advance holding down third.

Big winner ■ Junortoun (Bendigo) mentor Bruce Morgan's 3-Y-0 Our Sir Vancelot/ Rosie Jo gelding Advance To Go was a big winner of the Emily Jane Shambrook Pace for C0 class over 2150 metres in a rate of 1-58.

Driven by Jodi Quinlan, Advance To Go from the pole was beaten for speed by Aimeetothepost (gate four) who handed over to Hiflyin Cruiser, before being sent forward to take over at the head of affairs.

Always in control from there on, Advance To Go raced away on the final bend to score by 20.9 metres from Hiflyin Cruiser, with Rhinestone Cowgirl third after galloping away from gate two and settling a clear last.

Baker’s Delight

Harness Racing

Held margin to the wire

Melbourne

Observer

lenbaker@ bigpond.net.au

with Len Baker

Grand style ■ Avid harness fans Julie and Jennifer Coventry, part-owners of the Lee Evison (Longwarry) trained 5-Y-0 Kiwi bred Courage Under Fire/ Seabreeze Hanover 5-Y0 gelding Alpine Andy, would have received a thrill when he scored in the Imagination Play Pace for C3 & C4 class over 2150 metres at Yarra valley.

Given a cosy trip from gate four one/one, Alpine Andy was eased three wide in the last lap to join the leaders Winnies Central and Iamnotabindi running into the final bend, with Bettor Give It four wide outside him.

Racing to the front on turning, Alpine Andy was challenged strongly by Bettor Give It, before fighting back in grand style to register a 1.2 metre margin in 1-58.1, with Flying Class a further 12.6 metres away in third place after being last at the bell.

Consistent ■ Huntly trainer/driver Anthony Crossland's Kiwi bred Tinted Cloud/ Limbo Maid 5-Y-0 gelding Buriton Bailey was rewarded for his consistent efforts of late, when successful in the 1st $7,000 Heat of the Decron Hoof Care Tontine Pacers Series for C2 & C4 class over 2195 metres at Ararat on Tuesday.

Enjoying a sweet passage just off the speed from gate two on the second line with the favourite Mark Dennis having a torrid run outside the pacemaker Brutus Smith in the early stages, Buriton Bailey was given the run of the race one/one with Greater Magellan facing the open.

Easing three wide solo in the last lap, Buriton Bailey dashed to the front on the home turn, scoring by 10.3 metres in a rate of 1-59.5 over Brutus Smith

which came again after being used up early, with Talk To The Hand (four back the markers) using the sprint lane for third,nosing out Greater Magellan in the last bound.

Trapped wide ■ Heat two of the Tontine went the way of Mernda horseman Ian Dornauf's 7-Y-0 Falcon Seelster/Dels Holme gelding Bad Cat in a rate of 200 even.

Trapped wide from gate five running into the first turn, Dornauf pressed forward with Bad Cat to eventually cross the leader Tinkers Taxi, with the hot favourite Galleons Prospect (gate six) four wide before moving to park in the open.

With Chris Alford aboard Galleons Prospect putting the foot down in the last lap, the pair drew right away to fight out the finish, with Bad Cat holding an advantage on turning.

Trying hard to get on terms, Galleons Prospect was slightly impeded by Bad Cat shifting ground halfway up the running, resulting in Alford then switching inside him, but failing to draw level.

Safely holding a margin, Bad Cat scored by 4.6 metres in a last half mile of 58.9 - quarter 29.9, with Heavyweight third from three back in the moving line.

■ Eight year old Saab/Tibby Lombo gelding Lombo Limmo was successful in the Choice Hotels 132400 Claiming Pace over 2195 metres at Ararat.

Trained and driven by Mt Cottrell based Tony Pullicino for mother Gaita, Lombo Limmo was eased at the start from gate four, settling three back in the moving line, with stablemate Sandler (gate six) keeping the leader Anvils A Coaster (gate three) honest.

Sprinting sharply in the last lap, Lombo Limmo led on turning and held a margin to the wire in defeating the 11-Y-0 Vintage Direct (behind leader), with Spinalong running home late from last for third.

The mile rate 2-00.8.

Three wide on final bend ■ Kilmore owner/trainer Bruce Kennedy does a fine job with his small team and was successful with Life Sign/Katheey filly Fulsome in the Tatchell Plumbing 3-Y-0 Pace over 1690 metres at Maryborough.

Driven by Brian Gath, Fulsome spent most of the race three back in the moving line from gate two, moving three wide on the final bend and running on strongly to score from Tessanzo (one/one) on debut and Victoria May which trailed the weakening leader Melrose Kate before using the sprint lane to no avail. The mile rate 1-59.2.

Locals win at Shepp.

■ Shepparton's Thursday fixture saw plenty of local winners prevailing including Bunbartha trainer/driver John Newberry's 4-Y-0 Earl/Shine On Alisha gelding Just Call Me Earl in the Planet Power Trotters Handicap for T1 or better class over 2190 metres in a rate of 2-05.4.

Coming from the 10 metre mark, Just Call Me Earl stepped cleanly, settling five back along the markers with Smile No More beginning brilliantly to lead from outside the front row.

Moving to be four back in the running line midrace, Newberry set Just Call Me Earl alight three wide racing for the bell, continuing the move to lead on straightening in accounting for Spring Fly (three back the markers) and Im Victor Trumper which followed the leader.

Clean sweep in final ■ Gillieston trainer Russ Thomson's 4-Y-0 Blissful Hall/Valchelon gelding Pinevale Willpower made a clean sweep of the Hotondo Shepparton/Kialla Knight CC Pace Final for C0 class over 2190 metres.

Driven with gusto to lead from gate three, Pinevale Willpower bred and raced by long time participants Terry Forster and Heather Lyttleton was rated a treat by Daryl Douglas, kicking clear at the straight entrance to defeat the favourite Gottahavasheffield which trailed using the sprint lane to no avail, with Run Forrest.

Maiden status broken ■ Kyneton trainer/driver Barry Turner has a handy type in 4-Y-0 Pacific Fella/ Printers Gold gelding Juan Amigo who has shown something in each of his six race appearances prior to breaking his maiden status in the Maryborough & District Conveyancing Pace for R0 class over 2190 metres at Maryborough on Wednesday.

Trapped wide from gate five before parking outside the pacemaker Hez Mighty (gate three) shortly after the start and again being left in the open when Chris Alford continued to press forward out wide with the former Sydneysider Tullies Return (gate six), Juan Amigo spent the entire race without cover.

Showing plenty of tenacity on straightening, Juan Amigo wore down Tullies Return which raced roughly approaching the home turn to score by 3.5 metres in a rate of 2-03.4, with Stands Alone (three wide last lap) third.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012 - Page 57

Horses

Big night for Kerryn at Terang Cup In Perth ■ Australasia's premier harness event - the Inter Dominion commences in Perth this Friday and I will be in attendance to bring readers a review of all the action from the series over the next two weeks.

Harness win ■ Parwan trainer Scott Phelan was successful with 4-Y-0 Grinfromeartoear/Dacca mare Take Time To Smile in the SEWEurodrive Pace for C1 class (mares) over 1720 metres at the Bendigo meeting conducted at Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday.

Taking a concession for Charlton reinswoman Ellen Tormey who is shortly off to represent Victoria in the Inter Dominion Young Drivers Series in Perth, Take Time To Smile from the extreme draw settled three back in the moving line, easing three wide solo in the last lap to set out after the leaders No Good At Maths and Well Hello Dolly.

Sweeping to the front on straightening, Take Time To Sail proved too strong at the finish for Linga Longa Lass and Well Hello Dolly in a slick rate of 1-57.7.

- Len Baker

■ The Terang Harness Racing Club held its feature night of racing at Dalvui Raceway on Saturday (Feb. 11), with the $25,000 Terang Co-Op Pacing Cup the highlight, supplemented by the $$10,000 Barastoc Terang Trotters Cup, both winners being driven by the "Queen of the Western District" Kerryn Manning.

Seven-year-old Kiwi bred Village Jasper/Stylish Onedin gelding Onedin Hustler registered his biggest victory to date when successful in the Cup. Trained at Melton by Lance Justice for Paul Nobes, Onedin Huster making his 90th race appearance was trapped three wide from gate four, with the Ouyen Cup winner Devilish Smile leading from gate two being trailed by Night Of The Stars starting from the pole, while the favourite Pacific Playgirl was restrained to the rear

by Greg Sugars after drawing outside the front row.

Gaining cover when both Lets Slash An Burn and Captain Joy were sent forward within a lap, Onedin Hustler possied three back in the running line, with Captain Joy in the open and Lets Slash An Burn one/one.

When Pacific Playgirl commenced a forward move racing for the bell in the 2680 metre event, both Jar Zinyo (one/three) and Onedin Hustler came out ahead of her, with Onedin Hustler leading up the three wide line heading into the back straight on the final occasion.

Sweeping to the front in the straight, Onedin Hustler defied a challenge from Pacific Playgirl down the outside fence to score by a neck in a rate of 157.9 (last half mile 57.5 - quarter 28.6),

● Len Baker with Our Malabar rushing home late for third after following the runner up home. Night Of The Stars first up since finishing fourth in the Gold Nugget at Gloucester Park Perth in November used the sprint lane for fourth.

The Barastoc Trotters Cup for T5 or better class (D-H) over 2650 metres was a local victory, with 8-Y-0 Safely Kept/Glory Girl gelding Crescent Glory scoring a well deserved victory after several eye catching runs of late.

Raced in partnership by Cudgee trainer John Meade and father-in-law Len Fahey, Crescent Glory appeared well handicapped off the front line and

stepped safely from barrier five to take over from the poleline roughie Adams Crown shortly after the start, with both Cillas Earl and Earl Of Mot moving forward from well back in the field midrace after coming from 20 and 40 metre backmarks.

Travelling kindly throughout with Earl Of Mot outside him and Cillas Earl one/one, Crescent Glory trotted faultlessly and kicked clear on the final bend as Cillas Earl three wide tried to issue a challenge.

Safely holding a margin to the wire, Crescent Glory registered a 4.3 metre victory over Cillas Earl, with Motu Young Jacob (one/two) 14.2 metres back in third place.

With quarters of 31.7, 31.1, 29.5 & 29.3 for the last mile, Crescent Glory having start number 68 returned a mile rate of 2-05.6 for the journey, recording his first victory since winning at Moonee Valley in September 2009.

It was a ‘night of nights’ for Kerryn Manning who also landed the Harry Whiting Memorial Silver Plate for C4 to C6 class over 2180 metres aboard partner Grant Campbell's 6-Y-0 Badlands Hanover/Kamwood Express gelding Hez The Bart Man. - Len Baker

Black Caviar nominates

■ Black Caviar's first step towards a surprise start in the Coolmore Lightning Stakes was officially completed today when the champion mare was nominated for Australian racing's only 1000-metre Group 1.The Peter Moody-trained superstar was one of 16 entries for the $750,000 event that kicks off this year's Global Sprint Challenge at Flemington on Saturday.After arrogantly winning the Group 1 Sportingbet C.F. Orr Stakes at her first test over 1400m last Saturday, which took her astounding record to 18 wins from as many starts, the five-year-old is now poised to run two weekends in a row for the first time.

Super win ■ Parwan's Jodi Quinlan scored a super victory with ex-Riverina 7-Y-0 gelding Jaydens Castle in the Nevele R Stud Pace for C7 or better class over 2240 metres at Melton, returning a mile rate of 156.2.

Settling mid-field in the running lane from gate four on the second row, Jaydens Castle ended up last at the bell after several moved around him three wide racing into the final circuit.

Hopelessly boxed in and still last approaching the home turn, Jaydens Castle when extricated into the clear on straightening, rattled home at 100 miles an hour down the outside fence to nab a death-seating Atlas Alliance in the last bound in a finish which tricked many, with Hung Jury third off a three wide trail on Talaspring in the last lap.

Irregularity ■ Racing Victoria stewards this week announced that they would not be pursuing charges against a trainer whose horse returned an irregularity to arsenic in a swab taken following a Victorian race in the latter part of 2011.

Page 58 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 15, 2012

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Observer Victorian Sport

SYNTHETIC GROUNDS: THE FUTURE OF FOOTY

■ Last weekend I was in Melbourne for my older brother Vic’s 90th birthday.

As AFL football has been my ‘life’, Thoroughbred Horse Racing has been his.

The late Jack Elliott, the Melbourne Herald’s doyen of racing writers and Vic, ‘came-up with the Horse of the Year’ concept, which like our Brownlow Medal Night has grown into Racing’s annual glamour event.

Arguably the nation’s three greatest living jockeys of their era, Ron Hutchinson, Roy Higgins and Damien Oliver were present among a galaxy of racing friends to pay their respects.

Roy quipped, “they won’t start the races until Vic arrives!”

It was a great day topped off by the “1950’s Australia’s own ‘Vera Lynn’ and still performing, our family friend Dorothy Baker who sang We’ll Meet Again and her favourite and mine Stand By Your Man which reminds me of a piece I wrote on Geraldine Sheedy back in October 2007 after Kevin Sheedy was sacked by Essendon.

(I’ll reprint it at the end of this Comment.)

I stayed with one of my daughters, Kerrie, at her unit at Altona Beach.

Gee hasn’t Altona changed with its multi-million mansions on The Esplanade and manicured parks with the ‘state of the art’ push button and automatic locked toilet blocks.

I walked the beach each morning and upon my return home to NSW and some research it has provided this Editorial Comment.

On the Sunday morning I met up with a group of young boys around 10 to 12 years training on the beach under the supervision of five men aged between 30 and 45 years.

It was all well organised. I got to talking with the kids and Luke who was taking the notes of the times taken for the drills. I asked was it a ‘soccer’ team?

Proudly came back the answer “No way!”

We are the U12s Point Cook Juniors from the AFL Western Region Football League. ” And why are you training at Altona which is 20 minutes by car from Point Cook?

Because our ground is being used for the cricket finals.

Then I was informed it is the only ‘all weather synthetic grass oval in the world’.

This seemed to me to be a real innovative project – so now read on what happened after I googled WRFL and as reported on December 15, 2011.

That’s two months ago!

What can this technology do for sport!

On the NSW Central Coast if you ‘spit’ twice the local council cancel all local footy!

We must all contribute in our own small way to support this venture of synthetic grass grounds particularly for the Juniors.

No greater love

■ I mention the Melbourne HeraldSun article titled “No greater love” about Geraldine and Kevin Sheedy with the sub title “But pain of leaving Essendon still lingers for the Sheedys”.

I can confirm its authenticity as I wrote in my column of Wednesday, August 1 2007, which I reprint:

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel Geraldine ‘Stands by Her Man’ Stand By Your Man was first sung by the late Tammy Wynette in 1968.

It was resurrected, not in song, but metaphorically, on yesterday’s (31/7/ 07) front page Melbourne Herald Sun article, by the genuinely publicity shy, Geraldine Sheedy.

It was the one time, and the right time, to come out and “Stand by Her Man”.

Her man, Kevin, was hurting.

Ouch! How much? Only a handful of family and closest mates will ever know.

In 1968 Sheedy was in his second of a brilliant, 13 years, 251 games career at Richmond, which included three Flags, club captain, B&F and State player.

He coached Essendon for 27 years, four premierships and four time ALL Australian coach.

Geraldine’s man was sacked in front of the biggest media throng ever assembled for football’s biggest story since Melbourne sacked Norm Smith mid-season back in 1965 and Ron Barassi left Melbourne to be playingcoach at Carlton the same year.

Synthetic oval opens at Point Cook ■ The world’s first AFL/Cricket Australia synthetic oval opened this week in Point Cook.

Football clubs in Melbourne’s west can now look forward to a bright new era with Wednesday’s official opening of the first ever AFL and Cricket Australia endorsed full-sized synthetic oval at Saltwater Reserve in Point Cook.

Joining representatives from the AFL, AFL Victoria, Western Bulldogs, Cricket Australia, Cricket Victoria, and Wyndham City Council, the Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hugh Delahunty officially opened the new synthetic oval.

“In the last few years, both our metropolitan and regional sports ovals have been vulnerable to overuse and climate extremes, including drought and excessive rain,” Mr Delahunty said.

“The new synthetic oval here in Point Cook provides a more reliable and durable solution to susceptible natural turf pitches.

“That is great news for nearby clubs and associations looking to play and train longer, and attract new players,” Mr Delahunty said.

The new synthetic oval is situated in the heart of Melbourne’s fastest growing residential area, Wyndham, and is the first of several sports facilities soon to be established at the new Saltwater Reserve, including two additional natural turf ovals.

The AFL’s General Manager of National & International Development, Andrew Dillon, said that many of our suburbs and towns are either growing very fast or in the inner urban areas regenerating and in both cases land for sports use is hard to find.

“The AFL’s own growth was meaning that clubs were asking too much from just one oval. Synthetic ovals offer part of the solution where we can get three times the amount of use than a natural turf oval and protection from changing weather and climate” Mr Dillon said.

“The project at Point Cook is a fine example of all the parties working together to find a solution that will work. With Cricket and AFL working together, we can maximise the use of the oval and hence give real value to the investment by Wyndham Council and State Government.”

Mr Dillon acknowledged the leadership of the City of Wyndham for embarking on the first project of this nature.

“We appreciate the confidence they have shown in our game and in the support for local sporting clubs” he said.

The project was funded by the City of Wyndham, Victorian State Government, AFL, Cricket Australia and Cricket Victoria.

The AFL/Cricket Australia Synthetic Turf Program is based on research undertaken by the University of Ballarat to develop criteria for playing both football and cricket on a synthetic surface.

The criteria was developed to mimic the performance characteristics of natural turf and ensure playability, player comfort and safety is maximised.

- Excerpt from WRFL, Decembver 2011

coaching Essendon next year. “I stood up and put my arms around him, gave him a hug, and told him how sorry I was.

“I told him life goes on, and we have our health and our children, and that no matter what he does or what happens he would always have the support of myself and our children.

“And things happen for the best.

Perhaps it’s time for you to move on.

I’m sure it will all work out good.”

Tammy Wynette’s song has been It is with great pride I applaud aired thousands of times on emotional occasions in lives sharing grief and Geraldine for her story.

She would not have had a chance disappointment.

It seemed to me how appropriate to discuss it with her ‘million miles an hour’ man who is always on the go- for Geraldine – I’m sure besides your family, friends and Kevin’s fans, go.

She would have thought long and Tammy would also be proud of you as you “Stand By Your Man”. hard ‘should I do it?’.

“What will Kevin and the kids think?’

Well we are able to confirm to this lovely, always in the background, ■ Round One, NAB Cup (all times beautiful blonde wife and mum, “you are local, and the timings for games done good!”

It’s tough for wives with husbands 2/3 are approximate): Friday February 17 in the public eye in politics, business Etihad Stadium; Richmond v or sport.

North Melbourne (6.45pm), North They quickly learn they and their Melbourne v Hawthorn (7.50pm), children have to share their man. They Hawthorn v Richmond (8.55pm) don’t own him exclusively. The pubBlacktown International lic do.

Sportspark Sydney; GWS Giants v This is more so in Melbourne with Western Bulldogs (7.15pm), Western the AFL religion. v Collingwood (8.20pm), That’s why he was hurting. Sheeds Bulldogs Collingwood v GWS Giants (9.25pm) knew the inevitable day would come.

Sunday February 19 But he deserved an open and honPatersons Stadium; West Coast est discussion and appraisal by the Eagles v Essendon (4.45pm), Board before the day.

Essendon v Fremantle (5.50pm), After-all Sheedy is the face of Fremantle v West Coast Eagles Essendon. Sheedy is the brand, the (6.55pm) marketing and coaching genius. ★ Surely his opinion on the direction, Week Two, continuation of Round planning and future of the club, with One matches or without him, was worth canvassFriday February 24 ing.

Etihad Stadium; St Kilda v Sydney Or did the Board after a lifetime Swans (6.40pm), Sydney Swans v NOT trust him to be honest with them? Geelong Cats (7.45pm), St Kilda v That’s why he was hurting.

Geelong Cats (8.50pm) On the morning of the fateful anSaturday February 25 nouncement, Wednesday, July 25, Metricon Stadium; Gold Coast 2007, Sheedy was at the ground for a Suns v Melbourne (6.10pm), 7.00am training session.

Melbourne v Brisbane Lions After training the players were sent (7.15pm), Brisbane Lions v Gold home only to be emailed by the club Coast Suns (8.20pm) to come back by 12 noon.

Sunday February 26 Sheedy’s assistants Gary Ayres, AAMI Stadium; Port Adelaide v Gary O’Donnell, Dean Wallis and his Carlton (2.40pm), Carlton v Adelaide medical/fitness and reserve club Crows (3.45pm), Adelaide Crows v coach, Matthew Knights were not Port Adelaide (4.50pm) told by the club administrators of the impending explosive news.

Sheedy is trustworthy and loyal to his staff and friends.

He “picks and sticks” almost to a ■ The tallies of pre-season / night sefault at times to his own best interests. ries premierships won by AFL clubs since the first competition was played That’s why he was hurting.

You had to know and be very close in 1956 to Sheeds to see it during the mara- 9 - Hawthorn Essendon thon media conference in which he 65 -- North Melbourne, Western Bullstarred, settling the nerves of CEO dogs Peter Jackson and the emotions of 4 - Carlton, Sydney Swans, St Kilda some of his experienced, hard headed 3 – Melbourne, Geelong Cats media mates who have known him all 2 - Fitzroy,Collingwood,PortAdelaide their journalistic lives.

1 - Richmond, Adelaide How many times has he been there 0 - Brisbane Lions, Fremantle, West for you with an out-of-left-field quote Coast or story on a quiet news-day? That’s ★ why he was hurting.

AFL Life Membership – Matthew And into the breach stepped his Scarlett, Geelong Cats. Matthew will loyal wife, partner and mother of their qualify for automatic life membership four children, Renee, Chelsea, Jessica of the AFL when he plays his opening and Sam. match of the NAB Cup for the Geraldine simply told it as it was:” Geelong Cats. Since his debut in 1998, He might not be showing it but he is Matthew has played 299 official hurting deep down – he is only hu- games, comprising 268 premiership man. “ matches, 27 pre-season matches, one He told me late Tuesday night State of Origin match and three Inwhen he got home he would not be ternational Rules matches.

NAB Cup begins

Milestones

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Football

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