Melbourne Observer. 120516A. Wednesday, May 16, 2012. Pages 1-26, Pages 39-46

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■ Melbourne’s latest cabaret venue, Downstairs At Alma’s, has had to close this month due to a planning permit reversal by Glen Eira Council. Proprietors Will Conyers and Paul ‘P J’ Buchanan are winning support from the arts community which is assembling a petition to the Council and the Alma Sports Club at North Caulfield. See Page 3.

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Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 3

Breaking News

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

COUNCIL MUST ACT NOW ON Observer ‘DOWNSTAIRS AT ALMA’S’ In This 64-Page Edition

COMMENT

● ‘Downstairs at Alma’s’ operated by Will Conyers and Philip ‘P J’ Buchanan

Observer man at Probus

■ Ten months ago, then-Glen Eira Council Mayor Cr Margaret Esakoff was proudly opening the Downstairs At Alma’s cabaret in North Caulfield.

DAA has provided a much-needed venue for Melbourne performance artists. Downstairs At Alma’s, which is situated with the Alma Sports Club, has had to suddenly close for May-June, because the Glen Eira Council has curiously reversed a zoning decision.

DAA operators Will Conyers and Philip ‘P J’ Buchanan are at a loss to explain why the Council reversed its zoning.

DAA National Patron, Paul Baden, who operated the successful Capers, Cabaret venue says: “I know people have their own reasons for not wanting to see the club reopen - they choose to hide behind the red tape of councils and planning permits.

“There is no genuine reason why a permit is not approved and no reason why it can,t be approved now and not in a few months time.

Comedian Rachel Berger said: “There is no other venue in the immediate area that offers such a diversity of entertainment for a demographic age range from 18-80.”

An online petition has already secured hundreds of signatures from people calling for Glen Eira Council to swiftly pass the necessary planning permits.

Glen Eira Council should do all things necessary, quickly, so DAA may re-open.

Straight From The Heart: Bob Richardson .. Page 4 News: ‘Cosi’ staged at Mornington ......... Page 5 Melb. People: Our cameras at work ....... Page 6 Di Rolle: Kathy meets the Queen .......... Page 8 Melb. Confidential: Winkler must pay ..... Page 9 Long Shots: What a talented gang ........ Page 10 Photos: Naked Boys Singing ............... Page 11 Pictorial: Mothers Day at Crown ......... Page 12 Life And Style: Yvonne Lawrence writes .. Page 13 Extra: Paul Cronin profile .................. Page 16 Readers Club: Birthdays to celebrate ... Page 18 Independent Theatre Radio Confidential Movies, DVDs Local Theatre

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

Gambling not addictive ■ Work coming out of the University of Sydney’s Gambling Treatment Clinic suggests that problem gambling may not be addictive. “The idea of gambling addiction is widespread, but inaccurate,” says Dr Fadi Anjoul, who has treated problem gamblers for the past 15 years.

Dog back at Wang.?

■ Greyhound Racing Victoria will not make a final decision on a possible return of the sport to Wangaratta until local trainers' concerns have been heard, reports the The Wangaratta Chronicle.

Trainers say a track such as The Meadows would fit at Appin Park.

ADVERTISING SALES AGENT ● Peter Davies, Bill Doyle, Coral Newstead and Ewan Colson ■ Melbourne Observer show business writer Last week saw Kevin talk at the Probus Kevin Trask has a busy schedule with his Club of Templestowe Central which meets columns, plus his That’s Entertainment pro- on the second Wednesday of the month at the gram on 96.5 Inner FM, and appearances on Manningham - Templestowe Leisure Centre 3AW, 4BC and regional radio stations. and has 110 members, some of whom are Kevin is also a keen theatre producer and pictured above. director .... and we can add guest speaker to Kevin also addressed The Ionian Club, his CV. which meets on the second Thursday of each Kevin has more than 20 speaking assign- month at Butleigh Wootton in Kew. The club ments booked for 2012, talking about his life is for women from interstate or overseas. in show business, and his cousin Diana Trask.

See another photo on Page 10.

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 NON-STARTERS FOR A SAME SEX MARRIAGE 5. Michael Kroger and Peter Costello 4. Julia Gillard and Maria Venutti 3. Jason Akermanis and Brendan Fevola 2. Brynne Edelsten and Lara Bingle 1. Kyle Sandlilands and anyone

Full-time or part-time. Work from home.

The Melbourne Observer newspaper is expanding, and is appointing an additional Advertising Sales Agent to its team.

Since it was first published in 1969, the Observer has earned a reputation as a solid weekly family newspaper, on sale at newsagents across Victoria.

Over those 43 years, the Observer has become a favourite advertising medium for small-, medium- and large-businesses. Almost 10,000 businesses have taken ad packages with the Observer in the past 10 years.

We are now seeking another keen, enthusiastic and talented Advertising Sales person to join our team.

The successful applicant will probably have a background in sales and customer service, preferably in media, as well as a clear and positive telephone manner.

The position can be either fulltime, or part-time, and is work-fromhome.

You will need your own home office, with landline telephone, computer and e-mail. You will require computer literacy. Local Media Pty Ltd reimburses telephone call costs.

The position involves the calling on our customers and prospects, and attending to their advertising requirements.

Each day, a complete list of ‘warm’ client calls is e-mailed to our Advertising Sales Agents, so your day is spent as productively as possible.

Payment - which takes the form of a generous commission - is weekly. This means your earnings are not capped. You can start earning immediately.

You will require an ABN, and the position is on a contractor basis.

To discover more about the Advertising Sales Agent position, contact the Melbourne Observer office by e-mail, or by phone 1-800 231 311.

We will mail you an information package that explains more about this exciting opportunity.

For more information, contact Ash Long editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

Page 4 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

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Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

ROB RICHARDSON: A NOTE OF PRAISE ■ At 71 years-of-age, radio presenter Rob Richardson is young at heart and an all- round good guy, renowned for lending a hand to people in need.

Rob is a proud Freemason and Past President of the Altona branch of the Probus Association of Victoria still, he continues to raise awareness and much-needed funds for various charitable organisations around Melbourne.

Working with radio veteran Yvonne Lawrence for over a decade at numerous radio stations, each Monday afternoon, Rob sets off from his Porch in Altona to the Box Hill Studios to co-present on Yvonne Lawrence's popular Life and Style program on community radio 3WBC 94.1FM - where I was invited to the studio for a live Porch Thought interview - and after the 'ON-AIR' light switched off, I traded places with Rob with some Porch Thought questions.

As we sat down, Rob kindly reminded me I owed $100.00 to the charity of his choice - 'Probus'; after I set him the zany challenge to be photographed with US$1.00 bills in various locations on his recent trip to the USA. Rob informed me of almost being hit by a car on the famous Route 66 setting up one of my photo challenges. "Oops, sorry Rob!" For each photo Rob emailed me on his trip posing with a dollar bill, Porch Thoughts sponsors, Prestige Group International generously

matched dollar for dollar and in true Rob Richardson fashion, was quick to accept our donation.

It is wonderful to see you back safe from your trip Rob, what exactly happened on Route 66, all in aid of raising $1.00?

After dicing with death with a car for your photo challenge, I travelled on short sections as far as the Hoover Dam on the border of Nevada and Arizona.

Later in the trip I found the sign in Adams Street Chicago marking the start of Route 66.

You literally jumped at this opportunity to raise money for Probus, what is Probus?

It's an association for active retirees who join together in clubs. Its aim is to provide regular opportunities to keep minds active by expanding interests and members enjoy the fellowship of new friends. Membership is open to both men and women.

You emailed close to 50 photos holding one dollar bills, were there any odd comments from on-lookers?

Many asked, "What is that MAD Aussie doing?" - especially at the Space Needle in Seattle.

You travelled to many cities in the USA, what were a few highlights of your trip?

Meeting up with friends, visiting the Masonic Centre and Mormon Temples in Salt Lake City and ski

COMMUNITY PORCH THOUGHTS ing at Whistler were highlights. Being upgraded to the Presidential Suite in Chicago, enjoying the history in every street in Boston and visiting The World Trade Centre Memorial in New York, downtown Los Angeles.

Your first job was at McEwans in Elizabeth Street Melbourne which set the scene for your Engineering Sales background before moving to Canberra for employment at J Blackwood & Son in 1975. You established the Media Department within the company, did this spark your interest in the media?

Yes when I arrived in Canberra I was staying with a local 2CC DJ friend, Con Van and it turned out I had a bigger collection of 45 RPM rock 'n roll records than the station, so I quickly became a friend of all the DJ's.

You have been involved in providing counselling assistance to various groups such as Lifeline, PCV & Suicide Help Line, how important are these community service programs to individuals?

Very important! Suicide was a taboo subject for so long, now we can discuss it quite openly enable us to give resources and help to those in need of assistance.

You met Yvonne Lawrence in 1991 through a mutual friend, working together at 3AW, 3AK and now 3WBC. How has Yvonne helped your on-air skills and presenting?

When you work with Yvonne you are always learning. Yvonne is a true professional and I am always learning. Her interview skills are probably still the best on radio today.

The Life and Style program on 3WBC is aired each Monday afternoon, what is the program essentially about?

The program is generally a conversation between friends covering all subjects which are of interest to the listeners, along with interviews from local and overseas guests.

What's one thing you know about Yvonne, that you really shouldn't tell me about?

Her unselfish generosity towards friends and always being there for them.

What is your most memorable interview?

Definitely the interview in March last year with the most recent Past

● Rob Richardson on Route 66

● Rob in San Francisco and at the Space Needle in Seattle

● Rob Richardson and Yvonne Lawrence at 3WBC FM Grand Master of Freemasonry and a common bond of fellowship.

Victoria, Vaughan Werner. He was I believe you and Yvonne are invery open and responsive to the ques- terviewing Freemasons Victoria's tions asked and I'm sure he gave lis- new Grand Master Bob Jones at the teners a greater insight to Freema- end of this month (May 28), what is sonry, that it's not a secret society one burning question you have up and is open to all men of good stand- your sleeve to ask him as a fellow ing.

Mason?

You are a proud Freemason, Where will Freemasonry be in 10, being a member for 51 years at the 20 and 30 years?

Altona Masonic Lodge, what role What is your Porch Thought of do you think Freemasonry plays in the Day? a young man's life today?

To show kindness and compasAs younger men of all nationali- sion especially to the elderly, rememties are joining today, we are gain- ber they got there first and we are ing a better understanding of cultures next.

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 5

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Showbiz News

‘COSI’ STAGED AT MORNINGTON Two investigators for practitioner

Briefs Stash uncovered ■ A 28-year-old Alfredton man has been charged with trafficking ecstasy and amphetamines and possessing the proceeds of crime. Police say they uncovered a $35,000 stash of party drugs during a routine licence check in Ballarat.

Stolen ■ Timboon district residents have been warned to be on the lookout for stolen birds after a spate of burglaries in the town.

Valuable birds, including cockatiels, have been taken in the raids, where tools were also a target. A tomahawk was thrown through a window.

Cat out of the bag

■ An intruder foiled their own robbery attempt by letting a cat out of the laundry of a Wodonga home.

The owner was stirred by the cat when it was let out of the laundry.

The Gondoliers

● Meet the cast of Mornington CEF Players’ forthcoming production of Louis Nowra’s Cosi. From top left: Kelly Spencer, David Stares, Campbell Sewell, Stephanie Poon, Andrew Pollock, Kat Webster, Janet Reid, Ash Cooper, Geraldine Gordon, Tim Blencowe and Ross Charlesworth.

Directed by Mike Fletcher and Cameron Sweatman, Cosi can be seen on May 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27 at the Bellamy Hall, Albert St., Mornington. Tickets: $20/$17/$14.

Bookings: 5975 5904. www.cefplayers.com.au Photo: Mike Fletcher

Jazz fund raiser at Burvale ■ The Victorian Jazz Archive is staging a fund-raiser a the Burvale Hotlem Nunawading, from 1.30pm-4.30pm, Sunday, July 1, featuring the Pippa Wilson Swingtet.

Admission is $15, with food and drinks available from 12 Noon. Bookings are essential. More information is available on 9847 9900.

■ Blackburn-based Chinese medicine practitioner Reza Ghaffurian’s ‘professional misconduct and unprofessional conduct’ was reported in the Melbourne Observer on May 2.

Our report noted that evidence was given in a complaint made by the Chinese Medical Registration Board of Victoria, and heard at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Trubunal.

There were two investigators. One, ‘AB’, was hired by the Board, to pose as a patient.

The other investigator was Debra Gillick, former Registrar of the Board, who gathered evidence against Ghaffurian.

Our May 2 report gave the impression that Ms Gillick posed as a patient. This is not correct.

Ghaffurian is alleged to have told a patient: “I can cure anything.”

He offered stem cell therapy, quoting $6000 for six injections.

Ghaffurian was also alleged to have treated seriously ill patients with bottles of herbs that had no labelling.

He is alleged to have told a patient that he was a general medical practitioner and surgeon, trained in Italy, who had chosen to work in alternative medicine. His registration was suspended last year.

Penalty has yet to be determined

by VCAT.

‘STAFF UNDERPAID’

■ The Fair Work Ombudsman has taken action in the Federal Court in an effort to enforce back payment and penalty orders against Kew man Giuseppe De Simone who owned Cape Cafe in Brunswick St. De Simone, and his company Compumark Pty Ltd, were fined $99,000 by Melbourne Magistrate Kate Hawkins in 2010.

Two kitchen hands had been underpaid $7061 and $1575 in wages and superannuation.

The Fair Work Ombudsman alleges that the worker have still not been back paid.

Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

It is also alleged that De Simone and Compumark Pty Ltd have not paid the penalties imposed on them.

The matter went to the Federal Court on Friday. Judgement is to be handed down at a later date.

Fair Work Ombudsman Nicholas Wilson says that if Compumark is wound up, a liqudiator will examine the company to determine whether it has any assets that can be liquidated to met the back payment and penalty orders.

“The Fair Work Ombudsman is committed to taking proactive action to ensude that Court Orders made in response to our litigations are complied with.”

● From left, Rebecca Frew (Tessa), Nicholas Jensen (Giuseppe), Montgomery Wilson (Marco) and Cristina Russo (Gianetta) in the Savoy Opera Company’s production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Gondoliers.

■ Hail the nearest gondola and make your way to the Alexander Theatre on Saturday, May 12 or 19 for a trip to Venice with the Savoy Opera Company in their new production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta, The Gondoliers.

One of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular and colourful operettas, The Gondoliers is the typical tale of love lorn maidens and swains, confused identities and rapier sharp wit that never dates, along with tunes the audience will be humming on their way home.

Savoy Opera has assembled a cast of exciting young talent, mixed with some of the best of experienced G and S performers in Melbourne.

Directed by Stee Dixon with musical direction

by Robert Dora, The Gondoliers can be seen at 8pm on Saturday, May 12 and also at 2pm and 8pm on Saturday, May 19 at the Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton.

Tickets: Full price $37, Concession $30, Child/ Student $22.

Bookings: 9905 1111 www.monash.edu.au/ mapa www.savoyoperacompany.com

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Part-time. Work from home.

The Melbourne Observer newspaper is expanding, and is appointing an Executive Assistant to its team.

We require a person - who will be able to work the position from their own home office - and who has a positive, ‘can do’ attitude.

The successful applicant will have fast, accurate typing and computer skills, exceptional organisational ability, and a pleasant and confident telephone manner to assist our clients and readers.

You will possess the ability to work without supervision, and undertake commercial projects, taking responsibility for their outcomes.

We would expect that the person winning this position will have their own computer, e-mail, phone and fax. Running costs will be fully reimbursed.

We would expect that the successful applicant will prob-

ably live close to the Observer office at Eltham, and be able to pick-up assignments on a daily basis.

This position - which will be on a contractor basis, requiring an ABN - will commence on a trial basis.

We believe that the position woul possibly suit a parent of school-age children, looking to return to the workforce. Hours can be arranged to accommodate school hours, and term dates.

Applications with a background in sales administration, possibly in media, would be favourably received.

To discover more about the Executive Assistant position, contact the Melbourne Observer office by e-mail, or by phone 1-800 231 311.

We will mail you an information package that explains more about this exciting opportunity.

For more information, contact Ash Long editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 6 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Travel man nominated

● David Ellis

■ The Observer’s travel writer David Ellis has beennominated in two categories – print and website – for this year’s prestigious Raccontami L’Umbria (Stories on Umbria) Travel Writing Award, part of the annual Perugia Journalism Festival in Italy. David was listed as one of the top travel writers in the world.

People Melbourne

Send news to editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

Fax: 1-800 231 312

Preview

Mothers Day at Crown

Heston meets Tash ■ World-renowned chef Heston Blumenthal visited Melbourne this week, and a request was made to be photographed with Natasha Stipanov, Media Relations Manager at Crown Melbourne.

Festival opens at St Kilda ● Noel Grosby with her daughter, young Natalie ■ Ann Peacock of Crown Melbourne held her annual Mothers Day luncheon, with guests including Noel Grosby and daughter Natalie, who has just returned from a trip to NewYork.

Photo: Sue Deenim

Golden Days for Dan

● Dan Webb and Alex Hehr ■ Much-admired Melbourne TV-radio veteran Dan Webb is to be a guest on Alex Hehr’s Thanks For The Memories program on Golden Days Radio 95.7 FM. Dan has pre-recorded a two-part interview where he remembers the pioneering days of 3DB and HSV-7.

■ Opening night for the St Kilda Film Festival will be held at the Palais on Tuesday night (May 22).

Australia’s top 100 films will be showcased at 15 screenings at the Palais and Astor theatres.

Prize money totalling $40,000 will be offered. The festival includes the Soundkilda music video competition, and an international section.

High tea for two

■ Matthew Anderson, of Chadwick Models, and Suzanne Carbone were spotted by the Observer cameras at the Mothers Day High Tea held at the Myer Mural Hall.

Photo: Sue Deenim

● Dr Gerard Vaughan ■ The new Napoleon: Revolution To Empire exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria will be previewed to the media on Thursday, May 31, by Director Dr Gerard Vaughan, and the President of the Council of Trustees, Allan Myers.

The exhibition runs from June 2-October 7.

Pops night ■ The 42-piece Australian Philharmonic Orchestra will perform with John Foreman, Todd McKenny and Chloe Dallimore this Friday-Saturday (May 18-19) at the Palms at Crown.

Glenn plays RocKwiz

● Brian Nankervis with Glenn Bear ■ Former Ivanhoe resident Glenn Bear has tried his luck on the SBS TV program, RocKwiz. The episode will air later this year. Glenn has had a lifelong interest with music, and closely follows the performances of artists including Ross Wilson. ● You can e-mail your Melbourne People pix to: editor@melbourneosberver.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 7

p +61 7 5492 666 free ph 1800 068 798 e info@norfolks.com.au www.norfolks.com.au 32 Queen of Colonies Parade, Moffat Beach, Caloundra, Qld

Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Barry breaks record

● Barry Manilow ■ I was pleased to receive information that Barry Manilow’s album, Live In London, has broken 35-year chart record.

It debuted as #1 Billboard top internet album, #5 Indie Albums and #24 on the Billboard Top 200.

That’s the highest charting live album since 1977.

This marks the second consecutive powerhouse debut of Barry Manilow CD from the partnership of Stiletto Entertainment and Ingrooves Fontana in less than an year.

Barry has a new album, 15 Minutes, which debuted at #7 on the Billboard Top 200 and #1 on the independent chart.

15 Minutes is yet to be released in Australia and I will bringnews of when that will happen and also any possible Aussie tour of Barry as soon as I can find out.

“This is just incredible ,” said Manilow on hearing the news of his albums success. “Two successful albums in one year? I couldn’t be more grateful.” he said.

Recorded in London at the O2 Arena in May last yeart with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, Live In London provides audiences with gorgeous arrangements of Manilow classic hits Looks Like We Made It, Mandy, and Can’t Smile Without You, among others, available on either the CD or in the deluxe CD & DVD package with a 16 track CD and the 13 Track DVD. With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow is ranked as the top adult contemporary chart artist of all time, according to R&R (Radio & Records).

With 47 top 40 hits to hits credit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Manilow has produced, arranged, and released more than 40 albums over the course of his career.

Watch this space !

Loved the dress ■ Kathy Lette (see right) had the predominantly female audience laughing all night as she spoke about her husband, Human Rights lawyer Geoffrey Robertson, and how she had hidden Julian Assange in her attic.

Salmon Rushdie too – everyone except Anne Frank, she said!

She also told delightful story of meeting Queen Elizabeth, with Kathy wearing an outfit decorated in corgis wearing crowns.

The meeting was in the white drawing room at Buckingham Palace before a Royal reception for members of the Australian community living in the UK in London last year.

The Queen loved the dress.

By the way, I just loved seeing Prince Charles reading the weather on the news during the week!

International winner ■ It was a week where I triumphed over Twitter, I am now an official Twitterer.

Barack Obama showed amazing courage in support of gay marriage, and Michael Kroger showed his true colours about Peter Costello.

There were lots of announcements regarding new television shows and awards.

Go Back To Where You Came From, SBS’s hit television series has been awarded two prestigious awards at the Rose d’Or Awards ceremony in Lucerne, Switzerland.

The controversial series has received one of the highest international accolades for a television program, being awarded the coveted Golden Rose for Best of 2012 across all programs in all categories.

This is huge. It’s the first time an Australian production has won this prestigious prize.

The three-part documentary series also won the award in the factual entertainment category.

SBS is the first Australian broadcaster to ever win, as well as be nominated in this category.

For both of the awards, the decision of the jury was unanimous. Congratulations to all at Cordell Jigsaw Production who made the series for SBS Television.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

To

Great

Di

I love my job!

For KATHY MEETS THE QUEEN

with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE

■ I clearly need to get out more and explore more of my city.

I had the most fabulous night in the company of the wonderful Kathy Lette. H ere to promote her latest book The Boy Who Fell To Earth, she spoke beautifully at a night at The Wheeler Centre in the city.

I have always loved Kathy. She has such enthusiasm and is so positive about life and her exuberance and, of course ,great writing has long been an appeal for me.

Articulate, smart ● Kathy Lette talks with Queen Elizabeth. Lette is wearing and quick witted she an outfit decorated in corgis wearing crowns. The Queen loved wasn’t the author in it. Kathy talked about it at the night at Wheeler Centre. residence at the Savoy I bought her book, train stations. Parking stone walls that supHotel for nothing. and had it signed. She is available opposite in port this iconic 19th Kathy Letter pio- wrote ‘Dear Di, You n the QV compleves. century building. neered smart, funny, are a Goddess. Make The Moat estabVisit wheeler fiction with a frivolous sure you are wor- centre.com or call lishes an atmosphere edge and a feminist shipped accordingly. 9094 7800 during busi- unlike any other. flavour. ness hours.

Love Kathy x’ Boasting an interior Her latest modernFor more informaI will be back there designed by Christo girl heroine is filled a tion about Kathy and for sure … because Gillard, the Moat pays wilted love life and her her books visit her on down stairs from the homage to the nostaladorable but challeng- www.kathylette.com Wheeler Centre is a gia and intellect of the ing autistic son.

The book is pub- wonderful restaurant building whilst also Told with Kathy’s lished by Bantam called Moat. catering to the whimsy signature wit and Press and I recomand fantasy of the ficwarmth, The Boy Who mend it highly. tion housed above!

Fell To Earth draws on It is a must read for Flip said upon walkpersonal experience mothers of children ing into the restaurant ■ As if seeing Kathy of her own son. with Asperger’s. she felt her IQ rise by Lette at the Wheeler At the Wheeler The Wheeler Cenwasn’t 30 per cent.

Centre she talked, tre is worth a visit I Centre I have to say it was function, humour and must say, they have enough, my friend who just delightful and I took me to see Kathy, autism with Monica some wonderful Dux, a feminist with a speakers coming up, Flip Shelton and I de- cannot wait to go cided to dine at Moat back! well-developed funny and it’s free.

There is even a below the bone.

Actually Bob situated book exchange proWheeler Centre, It was an excellent Katter is going to The Moat Bar and gram within the restaunight and I wanted to speak on Thursday, immediately run home June 7 at the Wheeler Café offers Mel- rant!

I felt like my mate and write a book.

Centre from 6.15pm to bourne a new perShe is an inspira- 7.15pm,in conversa- spective on eating and Stephen Fry was going to walk in the door tion. Chatting after- tion with Barrie drinking.

Flip and I sat in a at any moment! wards she told me that Cassidy.

Moat is located at Prince Charles and Now that would be little table underneath Camilla are coming to an interesting one to a window where we the basement 176 felt immediately like Little Lonsdale St, Australia in Novem- attend. were in London. Melbourne, beneath ber and what fun comThe Wheeler Cen- weThe service was the State Library of pany they are. tre is located in a wing Camilla is very of the State Library on excellent and the food Victoria, downstairs down to earth. the corner of Swan- – well it was to Di from the Wheeler Kathy spoke won- ston St and Little for!We Flipped over Centre.

Visit them on derfully of Aussie Lonsdale St. The the food!

With its unique www.themoat.com.au women and she venue is serviced by clearly had a great Swanston St trams and courtyard and the or ring them on 9094 night.

Melbourne Central hefty, time worn blue- 7820.

‘To Di For’

■ Couldn’t be more happy that it is the Queens Diamond Jubilee as I am going to be watching Royal Family documentaries for the rest of my years the way I am going.

I was thrilled to circle very quickly the The Diamond Queen 7.30 Sunday evenings ABC1 for the next two weeks, Part One was delicious.

British journalist Andrew Marr documents her life and achievements.

She is a great woman.

Leigh returns to ‘7.30’ ■ And it’s great news that 7.30 anchor Leigh Sales will be returning to the program after six months maternity leave.

I have missed her. She will be back on ABC1 on Monday, May 28.

With Leigh’s return,Chris Uhlmann will return to his regular role as 7.30’s Political Editor in Canberra.

Chris has been presenting the program since the end of January, while Leigh has been on leave.

Leigh Sales says: “It had always been flexible as to when I might return, but the timing feels right now, and I’m eager to get back into it.

“I’m looking forward to coming back to work. I have been very lucky with a happy and easy baby boy, and a wonderful husband of course, so the decision to come back now has been made easier.”

7.30’s Executive Producer Sally Neighbour said,:“Leigh makes a welcome return to the program, at a fascinating time in national affairs and federal politics.

“She will re-join a 7.30 team whose aim is to make the ABC’s nightly flagship a must-watch program, which provides the best analysis of the day’s events, incisive interviews with the people making the news, and groundbreaking stories on issues of major public interest.

“Chris has been outstanding as the anchor of the program, and we look forward to the return of his incisive daily political coverage.

“Heather Ewart, who has filled in for Chris during his absence from Canberra, will go back to her role as 7.30’s National Affairs Correspondent from Melbourne.

“We’ve got a great team here at 7.30 and, while not re-inventing the show, we’re applying added rigour to daily and weekly story selection and investing in more investigative reporting, and I think it’s paying off,” Neighbour said.

“7.30 has broken some great stories recently including Hayden Cooper’s reports on visa application fraud; the treatment of soldiers with PTSD and the Defence Force Facebook group; Sarah Dingle’s story on the slaughter of protected dugongs and turtles in northern Australia and Caro Meldrum-Hanna’s casino and bikie stories.”

The national edition of 7.30 is on ABC1, Monday to Thursday, with local state and territory editions on Fridays.

Viewers can catch up with 7.30 on iview or at the 7.30 website – abc.net.au/7.30

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 9

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Confidential Melbourne

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

SEX-WITH-PATIENT PRACTITIONER ALLOWED TO RESUME PRACTICE

Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets

How does Steve do it?

● Steve Price in the 2GB studios ■ After the failure of Melbourne Talk Radio, Program Director Steve Price was moved to sister Sydney station 2GB to work out the remainder of his five-year contract.

Price has told the press that he will commute from his Melbourne home to the Harbour City, in order to present his 8pmMidnight program.

An Observer reader asks how Price manages to appear on the Ten Network’s The Project, produced in Melbourne at 6.30pm, and then be in Sydney by 8pm.

Interesting question.

They’re engaged!

■ Chinese medicine practitioner John Terry will be permitted to re-commence practice, despite admitting having a sexual relationship with a patient, ‘Ms X’.

Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Senior Member Ian Proctor, together with colleagues I Cali and X Gu, have affirmed the decision of the Chinese Medicine Registration Board of Victoria to allow the acupuncturist to re-start, subject to being monitored by a mentor over six months.

Terry reported himself to the Board, after the threemonth sexual relationship with Ms X came to a conclusion.

She had sought his treatment, partially in relation to mental health issues. At their last appointment, they discussed entering into a personal relationship.

‘Mr Terry told Ms X if they were to become involved, their clinical relationship would have to end.

He would refer her to another Chinese medicine practitioner,” the VCAT determination noted.

“The referral was made ... at least one person providing treatment to her was of the view the relationship between Mr Terry and Ms X had been deterimental to her.”

Terry voluntarily ceased practice as a Chinese medicine practitioner in January last year. He has not practised as such since then.

Rachel Ellyard, Counsel for the Board, said that Terry understood his actions were wrong, that he had suffered professional embarrassment, and there would be further embarrassment with publication.

REPORT FOCUS ON FAKE ACCOUNT ■ Which newspaper used quotes from a fake Brian McFadden Twitter account?

It seems one writer thought Australia’s Got Talent judge had made nasty comments about exfiance Delta Goodrem.

But the Twitter account is not his, and McFadden had nothing to do with the remarks which were quickly deleted.

McFadden is now engaged to Dancing With The Stars competitor Vogue Williams.

Rumour Mill Hear It Here First

Sorry, wrong numbers ■ Fairfax Media has admitted it released inflated data for the number of pages being used on its smartphone apps, reports the Mumbrella media industry website.

Fairfax claimed it had delivered a monthly average of 2.7 million to The Age’s phone apps.

By contrast, the last quarter saw those numbers apparently fall to 1.5 million, which would have been a drop of 44 per cent.

A spokeswoman for Fairfax Media told Mumbrella that the original data three months ago was wrong.

■ Actor Tony Sheldon has secured a Green Card to work another 12 months in America, and has resigned for another year for Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert. Had the Green Card not been approved, he would have to leave the US.

WINKLER MUST PAY $36,123

● Luke Mitchell (Romeo)has proposed to his on-screen and off-screen Home And Away girlfriend Rebecca Breeds (Ruby) ■ It is an engagement story that you would only expect to see on a TV series like Home And Away.

Luke Mitchell, who plays Romeo in Home And Away, has popped the question to actress Rebecca Breeds (Ruby).

"Honestly, it was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done in my life," he told New Idea.

The real-life engagement coincides with their H&A characters being reunited.

■ Melbourne builder Allan Winkler, trading as A.L.W. Lecbld, has been ordered to pay $36, 123, which includes $6123 interest, to Roy Joseph Shepherd and Michelle Jean Shepherd.

Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Vice-President Judge Timothy Ginnane was told that the Shepherds lent $63,500 to Winkler in 2007.

The money was meant as bridging finance for a commercial development at Bayswater.

Winkler had counter-claimed against the Shepherds, alleging they had made statements to business

More time

● Matthew Newton ■ Melbourneborn actor Mattnew Newton is to have extra time before appearing in a Miami Court on battery and other charges. The hearing has been adjourned to July 25.

Newton is now expected to plead not guilty to four charges.

New job

Tony signs for 12 months

● Brian McFadden

Whispers

lenders, real estate agents, banks and previous clients, which made it impossible for him to obtain business finance. As a result ,he said, existing mortgagees foreclosed.

The Tribunal heard that Keith Smith of Colonial Holdings Australia Pty Ltd approached the Shepherds, asking if they could provide a loan to Winkler.

Their understanding was that Winkler would re-pay $63,500, plus $5000, within four months.

The Shepherds arranged for the loan funds through accountant Peter Sangster.

The $63,500 was not re-paid.

The Shepherds re-paid their loan to Sangster, eventually having to sell their family home.

Winkler gave evidence that he had not met the Shepherds. He said he did not engage or authorise Smith to approach the Shepherds.

He had no knowledge of a bridging loan or $5000 incentive. There was no documentation of the loan alleged by the Shepherds.

Judge Ginnane determined that Winkler expressly atuthorised Smith to obtain a loan of $30,000 and no more from Sangster. A penalty interest rate of 10.5 per cent was applied.

E-Mail: Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

● Kirsten Smart ■ Greta Donaldson Publicity has appointed Kirsten Smart as Account CoOrdinator. Kirsten is originally from Mildura.

Illegal ■ Baby names that have been declared illegal include Fish and Chips (New Zealand), Venerdi (Friday) in Italy, Brfxxccxxmnpcccclllmmnprxvclmncksqlb11116 (Sweden), Gesher (Norway), Chow Tow (Malaysia), @ (China), Miatt ( G e r m a ny ) , Anus (Denmark), Ovnis (Portugal) and Akuma (Japan).

Hacked ■ Entertainer Tim Ferguson’s e-mail account was hacked, with bogus messages sent, requesting cash from friends.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

The Best Columnists

WHAT A TALENTED GANG! Top of the Class

Our Doors are Open!

Freemasons Victoria scholarship recipient recounts her experience

● Candice Waldhauser and Freemasons Victoria Grand Master Bob Jones.

For Melburnian Candice Waldhauser the elation of securing a very serendipitous last-minute university place to study veterinary science was somewhat dampened by the agonising realisation that she wouldn't be able to support herself while studying in Queensland for five years - the demanding veterinary course simply wouldn't allow the time for a part time job.

"It was early February when I received a phone call from the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the faculty of medicine, health and molecular science from James Cook University," says Candice.

"He informed me that I was being offered a position and I had 24 hours to accept or decline a place in the Bachelor of Veterinary Science. My initial thought was that this must be a prank call!" says Candice.

But it wasn't a prank call - instead Lady Luck had dealt her a favourable card.

Although she wanted to accept the placement, Candice knew she couldn't manage financially and didn't want to be a burden on her parents.

"After discussing the pros and cons with my parents, they gave me the choice and reassured me that they would find a way to support me in order for me to live my dream.

“In a matter of 24 hours my life path had taken an unexpected turn and I was moving to Townsville."

Candice accepted the placement at James Cook University and set about applying for government scholarships but unfortunately wasn't successful.

Her father, Peter, applied for a Freemasons Victoria scholarship and a few months later, Candice was told she was the recipient of a new accommodation scholarship, the Sydney George Manefield Residential Scholarship.

Freemasons Victoria's Board of Benevolence Fund awards this one-year scholarship to assist with university accommodation and providing the student does well in their studies, they are eligible to reapply for the scholarship; Candice was awarded this scholarship for the duration of her five-year course.

"This scholarship gave me the opportunity to live on campus," says Candice.

"As the college provided all the meals and I didn't have to travel to and from uni, this allowed me to designate a lot more time to my studies which involved 40 contact hours a week plus at least another 40 hours of private study," she says.

"Having my accommodation costs taken care of meant I didn't have to worry about working a part time job," says Candice who has since graduated from university and has returned to Melbourne.

"Freemasons Victoria played such a big role in helping me achieve and live my dream."

To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, or attend upcoming public events, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au or 'Like' our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ freemasonsvic for the most up to date information.

● Heather Close, Carole Ayre, Kevin Trask and Rhonda MacMahon ■ Long Shots never ceases to be amazed at the talent within the team of columnists that writes for the Melbourne Observer.

Entertainment writer Kevin Trask, who presents the popular Whatever Happened To series, appears on 3AW, 4BC and a host of regional radio stations.

On Page 3 this week, we note his talks at Probus and other organisations, including the Ioanian Club at Kew (above).

Mark Richardson (Page 4), also a talented song writer, was a guest of the 3WBC FM Life and Style program hosted by editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au our own Yvonne Lawwith Ash Long, Editor rence. It was a great chat.

Long Shots

Everywhere

● Julie Houghton ■ Our arts contributor Julie Houghton seems to be everywhere too.

In addition to her radio work at 3MBS and Vision Australia, Julie is a publicist for various theatrical organisations including the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic.

Her computer works overtime - except for a rare time soon when Julie’s husband, Allan, whisks her away for a special 30th anniversary holiday in the Cook Islands.

Julie is also appearing in a Gilbert and Sullivan production, The Gondoliers (see top right).

● Julie Houghton (left) at The Gondoliers rehearsals with Myfwany Coghill.

“For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”

Another of our crew who rarely takes holidays is theatre correspondent, Cheryl Threadgold, who files independent theatre and community theatre columns every week.

In between this and community work, Cheryl fits in a university course on writing!

Special Olympics ■ The Special Olympics Victoria State Games will be held this weekened (May 19-20).

Athletes have been competing at regional events.

State Minister for Sport and Recreation, Hugh Delahunty, has had a working relationship with SOV for a number of years.

He attended the State Games last year involved.

"The Victorian Government is proud to be as-

sociated with events that provide more opportunities for Victorians to not only participate but to perform at the highest level," Mr Delahunty said.

"Athletes have the chance to qualify to represent the State and their community at the National Special Olympic Games and potentially earn a coveted spot on the Australian team.”

Spanish Film Festival ■ The 2012 Spanish Film Festival, presented

by Estrella Damm, returns to Melbourne in July, for its 15th birthday celebrations!

The festival will once again travel to Palace Cinemas in Melbourne, screening a rich programof contemporary Spanish language cinema from July 4-25.

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT COURT REPORTS Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Melbourne Observer shall in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any person or body due to information provided. The information is provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content. No inference of a party’s guilt or innocence should be made by publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.

● Kieran Johnson-Vickers with Hugh Delahunty, Minister for Sport and Recreation

Observer Treasury Thoughts For The Week

■ Lawsuit. n. A machine which you go into as a pig and come out as a sausage.

- Ambrose Bierce ■ There is nothing so irritating as somebody with less intelligence and more sense than we have.

Observer Curmudgeon

■ “A liberal is a man who leaves the room when the fight begins.”

- Heywood Broun

Text For The Week

■ “A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit."

- Proverbs 15:13

Free reader ads are available in the Melbourne Trader section of the ‘Melbourne Observer’

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 11

Melbourne People

Naked Boys Singing Premiere Night Malthouse Theatre

● Cheryl Farrer and Sherie Chasemore

● Thomas Phillips with Angela Bitney

● Lulu McCaltchy, Paul Anthony and Jo Ellis

● Terence Murphy with Michael Baldwin

● Jason Warbington with Peter Ritchie

● Frank Van Straten with David Cullinane

● Josephine Giles with Anne-Marie Peard

● Chelsea Gibb with Debra Warne

● Ian Kerr with Gary Bartholomew

● Robert Brierley with Bill Passick

● Will Conyers with Paul ‘P J’ Buchanan

● Jillian Hough with Judith Roberts

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne People

● Jim Lee with Natasha Stipanov

Mothers Day Lunch Crown Melbourne Photos: Sue Deenim

● Mario Natoli and Andrea Batoli

● Lillian Frank with Kate Peck

● Noel Grosby with daughter, young Natalie

● Jane Kennedy with Suzanne Carbone

You can have the Melbourne Observer home delivered every week.

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Phone 1-800 231 311 and pay by Credit Card

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Melbourne

Observer Life & Style

MY FAVOURITE OLD DRESSING GOWN ■ There is something very comforting about a well worn dressing gown. It’s like putting on a favourite pair of slippers.

Sitting down to breakfast at the kitchen table wrapped in your gown and reading the obituaries in the morning newspaper and finding your name not there has to be the most satisfying moment.

With a cup of coffee in hand and wrapped in your old gown walking around the garden whilst checking on the progress of your new seedlings is my idea of heaven.

Who cares if a neighbour walking their dog stops at your front gate to say hello and sees your well-worn garment?

It’s all part of being a neighbour.

Yvonne’s Column

Moosh remembered ■ Well, my Christian Dior dressing gown was looking a little ‘Kitchen Dior’ and it was time to update.

I hated the thought of putting it in the rag bag because there was still lots of wear in it, besides, I would miss the familiar sight of it hanging, always at the ready, on its own hook behind the bathroom door.

And now I am feeling very swish because Moosh my cat gave me a new dressing gown with matching pajamas for Mother’s Day. Now, I know I’m not a mum although I always have a happy day with godchildren popping in and showing their love on this day, but Moosh never forgets. After all, I am his mum!

Now, how did he know that the gown would be a terrific gift? Perhaps he heard me dropping hints to my husband!

Wait until my neighbour sees me swishing around the garden wearing my new glamorous hooded velvet gown. I think I’ll put the hood on just to be that much more mysterious.

Gifts for mother ■ Somehow though, the new gown doesn’t go with old comfortable slippers and hair that is not been coiffed.

I made my mum a hostess gown once. It was like a dressing gown, but much more elegant, and it was fitted.

Using a Vogue pattern and making it in the middle of the night so that mum wouldn’t know, it was a wonder it turned out so well.

She was thrilled, and never mentioned that one of the pockets could have sat a bit better.

White chrysanthemums were a tradition once.

Bunches of them were on every street corner, on every counter, and that with a card was all that mum expected: a box of chocolates was a real gift.

Now, the media is full of advertising trying to entice us to buy gifts that mum really doesn’t want or need.

And if you have bought her a gift that requires instructions make sure that you assemble it before you go home. I still have an espresso coffee machine that sits unused in the kitchen because the instructions are in Chinglish.

with Yvonne Lawrence yvonne.lawrence@bigpond.com

Liquor for Mums?

■ What really got my goat were the full-page advertisements to give mum discount liquor for her day.

Knowing the problems alcohol can cause at a family gathering I think it is such a negative gift.

As alcohol is found to be the cause of so many teenage road deaths it is giving the wrong message.

I’d like to see someone who will be brave enough to start an anti liquor campaign with the strength of the anti smoking lobby.

But it will take a blue moon for someone to bite the bullet and take a serious look at the liquor laws Cigarette smoking is at the lowest it has ever been in Victoria and it is said to be directly due to the anti smoking advertising campaigns.

Sorry for smokers ■ I was a smoker once, and it’s not easy to quit, but I did and I’m glad I did. I don’t like the smell of smoke now where once I didn’t notice, but I can’t help but feel sorry for those smokers who are being treated like pariahs.

It is their choice, and they don’t need rudeness from non-smokers adding to their feelings of guilt.

Some do gooders are now wanting to stop people from smoking in their own home, and, if you can believe it, even anywhere outdoors.

Many non-smokers feel so smug when they rudely make a comment to a smoker sitting outside a café or somewhere in the open.

If the Government is so concerned about smoking, why isn’t it made illegal.

We all know why!

The answer is simple. The almighty tax grab!

It couldn’t balance the budget without the revenue.

I wonder how that balances out against the enormous cost of treating smoking related diseases?

Arts Briefs

Anti-smoking campaigns

Jazz time

■ Why don’t Councils install more ashtrays in the shopping strips? I agree that cigarette buts outside offices on footpaths look terrible, but where are the appropriate receptacles?

My husband and I ran the gauntlet of smokers outside a restaurant the other night. Later that night we witnessed a noisy disagreement at a table of diners who had had more liquor than they could handle. It becomes an avoidance, avoidance situation for the restaurateur to ask them to leave, yet if a smoker lights up, the waiter quite rightly pounces.

I’m not a drinker, and I like to see people have a good time, but there is a big problem if they need to have a skin full just to be sociable.

So, here I am, all wrapped up in my new dressing gown as I write. I’m as warm as toast.

I wonder how long it will be before I look on the new gown with as much love as my old, comfortable wrap around.

I hope your Mothers’ Day was a great day, and you received a traditional bunch of white chrysanthemums that is still giving you great pleasure and many wonderful memories of your day.

Last word on possums ■ And this is my final word about possums.

Andrew, please take note!

If they are eating your roses, try feeding them.

We have had a family of possums at out house for years.

It’s a ritual every night to feed them. We ring the temple bells, and down they scamper from the trees for their dinner.

I have names for them, and love it when mum possum brings her baby, clinging to her back, to the feeding table. It’s been hard not to pick them up because they are so friendly, but we just feed them and keep our distance.

Even Moosh the cat is trained to look but not to touch. He usually presides over their dining from a safe distance.

And do you know, they haven’t eaten our roses, or for that matter, anything in the garden, or not that we’ve noticed.

So, if by some remote chance a possum gets into your roof, check that you haven’t overlooked a narrow opening where they can squeeze in to sleep.

I find that sweeping up a few droppings is small price to pay for sharing your garden with some of our very cute and loveable protected wildlife.

Yvonne.

Contact: Melbourne Observer, P.O, Box 1278, Research. 3095

■ Lovers of good jazz will want to be at Dizzy's Jazz Club in Richmond on Friday (May 18) for the return of the Craig Schneider Trio.

Led by jazz vocalist and pianist, Craig Schneider, the Trio also comprises master bass player Frank Di Sario with Dean Cooper on drums.

Craig Schneider returned to Melbourne a couple of years ago following a successful six years in London's jazz scene, where he played regularly at Claridges, the Ivy Club and the Pizza Express Jazz Club, as well as more tradition venues including the Royal Albert Hall and the National Theatre.

Craig was the first graduate to complete a Master's Degree in Jazz Performance and Arranging and Composition at the Canberra School of Music, and has released six CDs of jazz, swing, and Cole Porter and Gershwin favourites.

So if you want to hear the fine sounds of the Craig Schneider Trio, pop along to Dizzy's Jazz Club on Friday at 9pm. Tickets are $20 or $16 concession and can be booked on 9428 1233.

- Julie Houghton

Gala recital to raise funds for 3MBS-FM ■ Marathons of various kinds are popular ways to raise money for good causes, and Melbourne’s only local fine music station, 3MBS, is launching its radiothon with a gala recital.

Abbotsford Convent Arts Complex, the home of 3MBS, will host some of Australia’s leading musicians to kick off the 2012, fundraising Radiothon with a bang, at 6.30pm on Friday (May 18).

Lending their talents to help 3MBS stay alive are the Melbourne Piano Trio with famed clarinetist Paul Dean, whose day job is artistic director of the Australian National Academy of Music.

Early music specialists Ludovico’s Band and the revered vocal ensemble The Consort of Melbourne make up the rest of this fine team of artists.

Feature of the concert will be the beautiful Brahms’ Clarinet Trio, and 3MBS General Manager Gabrielle Waters is hoping that

Melbourne music loves will come and support 3MBS by buying a ticket to this special concert.

Having these three outstanding groups of musicians performing in the one recital is a rare chance for an audience to hear the best of instrumental and vocal music on the one program.

“3MBS relies heavily on the financial support of our loyal community of musicians, listener, donors and sponsors to continue broadcasting fine music.

“Lovers of fine music can support 3MBS by attending this unique recital or by contacting the station on 9416 1035.’ Gabrielle said.

The 2012 3MBS Radiothon runs from May 28-27.

Tickets for the Gala Recital are $20 - $35 and can be bought by calling the station on 9416 1035 or through www.trybooking.com/ 22455.

- Julie Houghton

● Melbourne Piano Trio: Ji Won Kim, Chris Howlett, Hoang Pham

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

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www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 15

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Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

■ Paul Cronin starred in some of the classic Australian television series produced by Crawford Productions for more than 20 years.

Paul Cronin was born in Jamestown Soldiers' Memorial Hospital in 1938 and grew up on a farm in South Australia.

He worked at various jobs before landing ‘bit parts’ in Crawford Productions. One of his early roles was as Ted Hamilton's ‘off sider’ in Division Four and played the ‘best man’ when Ted's character got married.

Paul landed the ongoing role of the motorcycle policeman Gary Hogan in Matlock Police. He worked with Michael Pate, Vic Gordon and Grigor Taylor in the popular television series.

When Matlock Police finished filming in 1976 Paul reprised his Gary Hogan character in the spin-off series Solo One for a season of 13 episodes on the Seven Network.

Paul was cast as Dave Sullivan in The Sullivans and was with the period drama from 1976 till 1983.

This was one of the most popular series in the history of Crawford Productions, it was seen throughout the world and was very popular in The Netherlands, United Kingdom, Ireland and New Zealand..

The cast included Lorraine Bayly, Andrew McFarlane, Steven Tandy, Reg Gorman, Richard Morgan, Norman Yemm, Susan Hannaford, Vivean Gray and Vikki Hammond.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Whatever Happened To ...

Paul Cronin

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM Many famous Australian actors played roles in The Sullivans and Paul recalls doing a scene with a young NIDA graduate, Mel Gibson.

(Maybe it is time for the commercial networks to re-screen The Sullivans.)

He won five Silver Logies for his portrayal of Dave Sullivan and was crowned King of Moomba in 1980.

He acted in two telemovies, Matthew and Son and A Place to Call Home.

Paul had a passion for VFL football and in 1986 became part of a consortium with Christopher Skase to launch the new team in Queensland, the Brisbane Bears.

Paul was with the club for three years and worked hard to establish the interstate team.

● Paul Cronin on the set of The Sullivans After the financial collapse of the Skase busi- Down Under which was a caravan and campness empire Paul battled to keep the club run- ing television series.

Paul and his wife Helen married in 1959 they ning before resigning in 1990. The club eventuhave four daughters and 12 grandchildren. ally became the Brisbane Lions.

- Kevin Trask Paul Cronin worked at 3AW for 10 years on The Time Tunnel - with Bruce & PhilNightline and Remember When as a replaceSundays at 8.15 pm on 3AW ment for Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady.

That's Entertainment - 96.5FM SunI used to enjoy working with Paul during our days Remember When segment, The Trask Time at 12 Noon Tunnel - we became friends and had a lot of 96.5FM is streaming on the internet. fun.

To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and I enjoyed Paul's lifestyle series Discover follow the prompts.

TOWNS THAT SPRING OUT OF NOWHERE

■ As I drive up the Stuart Highway I often make a few ‘comfort stops’, or just have a stretch, or investigate some disappearing reptile.

But ... Flies!

Millions of them!

As soon as the car door is opened, they immediately buzz out of the middle of nowhere.

This time just south of Coober Pedy.

I've seen little old ladies go almost beserk at the Rock, where they often seem to proliferate; I've seen people who've come from from all over the world just to see this edifice, but won't leave their hotel rooms because of these pesty little creatures.

Years ago our scientific ‘experts’ figured out that they bred in ‘cow pats’, the familiar piles which dot the paddocks of every farm in the world, which were deposited throughout the Centre by Outback cows.

So they decided to introduce the Dung Beetle from South Africa, an insect which also uses the same substance for its breeding cycle; it buries the stuff as soon as it hits the ground, getting it out of the reach of the flies.

So supposedly the flies wouldn't have anywhere to breed, and they'd just fade away.

Didn't work!

■ As with most other towns in Australia, Coober Pedy once boasted a drive-in.

And then, of course, TV gradually stretched its claws out into the bush; then videos, now the whole gamut, so they're virtually a thing of the past.

Every second Saturday, though, volunteers crank up the projector once more for some old classics.

However, as mailman Peter Rowe pointed out to us, there was a phenomenon peculiar just to this town.

Coober Pedy is a mining town, but there are no companies or corporations - every individual miner works for himself. Usually there are private partnerships, but these are just handshake deals.

As with all other mining towns, gelignite is employed - here to loosen up the soil. So every individual miner with a Miners' Right could wander into the BP, fill his tank, buy a Mars Bar and a case of gelly. (The situation is a little tighter these days with security concerns.)

It suddenly occurred to the drivein operator that most of the patrons

The Outback Legend

with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au would have a few cases in their boot, so there would be tons of explosives on the premises. Not very safe!

Hence a sign erected at the entrance - "Patrons are requested not to bring explosives into this theatre".

This sign appears on most postcards sold in town!

■ I've spent much of my life on opal fields, and I'll be back in Andamooka and Coober Pedy again in a couple of weeks.

Hundreds of millions of dollars are annually mined in Australia's fields, the majority from Coober Pedy.

Every opal field in Australia has begun with a bushie or a miner discovering some ‘colour’, and telling his mates, who soon join him, and shortly thereafter, a store - and voila - a town!

Coober Pedy, Andamooka, Lightning Ridge, Mintabie - all the same.

And through western Queensland, there are many such settlements, such as Yowah and Opalton and Opal Creek.

The most recent was Lambina, east of Marla, which sprung up just a few years ago.

All the miners built huts and humpies to live in. Then the store. But no pub, because this would require a Police presence, which they don't want!

From Pimba in SA to Renner Springs in the NT the Stuart Highway is paved mostly over opal-bearing clay.

Whilst it is probably not desirable to burrow under this thoroughfare (although years ago before it was paved one miner found about $100,000 directly underneath), there it all is - just a few feet down!

■ On the drive home from Coober Pedy I encountered a phenomenon which I'd never seen south of the NT before, although I'd often observed it at Alice and the Rock.

I was happily gliding down the highway when I suddenly noticed a furry looking ‘snake’ slowly weaving its way across the road. I immediately performed a quick ‘Uie’ and drove back to render assistance.

It wasn't a snake, but a line of Processionary Caterpillars, and I got there just in time!

Dozens of these woolly creatures , each about an inch long, congregate together and form a line, playing "follow-the-leader" across the desert sand.

Of course if this slow moving ‘snake’ crosses a road its individuals are decimated as passing vehicles run over them. They're not very brave or intelligent so they just curl up into a furry ball and lie there and hope for the best. So they all end up being squashed by subsequent vehicles.

There wasn't much traffic about so I picked each individual up and relocated him back to the desert, where he'd rejoin his mates and form another reptilian line and hopefully wander off in another direction.

Only one other car passed, and he viewed my behaviour with bewilderment and suspicion!

■ Further down, in the Port Germain Gorge, I encountered a couple of snakes who were sharing the underside of large rocks with the scorpions which I was seeking.

It's interesting to witness Mr Darwin's Galapagas-inspired basic evolutionary theories in practice (although I do have a few issues as to how our own incredibly complex nervous systems and psyches and consciousnesses just ‘happened’ to evolve by themselves!).

I often watch a blue tongue lizard with its wriggly body and tiny legs desperately trying to escape any perceived danger.

Its legs are more of a hindrance than a help - the wriggles of its body help more in its progress.

I have often encountered snakes moving at amazing speeds.

Those I encountered under the Port Germain rocks were only small, about a foot long, but very thin and wiry.

During the time between lifting the rock and reaching down to grab them, they had just disappeared.

They moved so quickly that it was faster than my eyes could follow them, on both occasions.

So it may be that in a few million years the bluey's legs will have disappeared, and they'll be just wriggling along with the best of them!

- Nick Le Souef ‘The Outback Legend’

From The Outer

Melbourne

Observer

kojak@ mmnet.com.au

With John Pasquarelli

■ How long ago did Gillard and her mates know about Craig Thomson and the HSU mess, whose victims are those lower paid members of the health industry who do all the hard yakka only to see their union bosses living it up on their membership dues.

Bill Shorten, Paul Howes and a host of others who have done well out of the union movement rabbited on about Work Choices which admittedly had lots of flaws but the best Shorten could do about the HSU was to say he was 'disturbed.'

Various unions have got away with blue murder over the years but now the corruption and criminality is bubbling to the surface.

Rewind to the early 1990s when Gillard's then boyfriend Bruce Morton Wilson was allegedly milking funds from the AWU as detailed by Ian Cambridge in a lengthy affidavit which was supported by none other than Labor kingmaker Bill Ludwig.

There are plenty of Labor appointees in places like the Federal Court and Fair Work Australia.

Bernard Murphy who was with Gillard at Slater & Gordon joined the Federal Court in 2011 while Ian Cambridge was appointed to FWA in 2009.

A Royal Commission into the unions will hopefully achieve justice for their honest hardworking members.

- John Pasquarelli: kojak@mmnet.com.au

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Observer Readers’ Club 100 Years Ago. Coburg Leader.

Friday, May 17, 1912.

At the competitions held at Colac last week, Miss Alice Wilcox, of Ly gon street, East Brunswick, was very successful in the pianoforte sections.

Miss Wilcox secured first prize for reading music at sight, first prize for open solo and first prize for champion solo. In the open duet, Miss Wilcox and Miss Winifred Neylon won the first prize.

The judge, Herr Carl Saner, stated in his remarks that Miss Alice Wilcox gave a splendid opening, she pessessed an excellent touch and had a fine grasp of the pieces played, and throughout gave most artistie performances.

At the seame competitions, James Melody and Edgar Cole, of East Brunswick, secured the second prize in the pianoforte duet under 13 years. ★★★ Appearances pointed to brisk busi.ness at the Coburg Court on Tuesday, and it was understood that there was a good list on.

As it was, a licensing case and a motor collision occupied the attention of the court the whole morning.

Leslie Kennett and Claude William Peters,. two lads, pleaded guilty at the Brunswick Court on Wednesday, to the theft of a canary valued at £l.

Kennett had a prior conviction for throwing a stone at a Chinaman. Peters was tined £l or three days and Kennett £1 10s or seven days.

Two lads named Gorden Rowe and Charles Howard were charged at the Brunswick Court on Wednesday, with throwing stones to the danger of the public on April 5. Constable Dugdale gave evidence of catching ,the accused and two other lads on the occasion mentioned. The two accused gave wrong names and ad dresses, which entailed trouble on the police in bringing them to book. E ach culprit was fined £1.

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● Melbourne Observer reader Dennis Wall sends this photo of four Newlands High School students who have just held a 50-year reunion of their first day there in 1962. The early-day photos are from Grade 5. The reunion was organised by Marian Atlis. From left: Susan Henshall, Marilyn Hill, Glenys Maitland, and Dennis Wall

Word Of The Week

Reader Recipes

■ Pedotrophy - The raising of children.

■ What was the name of the mother chracter in The Brady Bunch?

Your Stars with Christina La Cross Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 20) Some sort of disruption is indicated in your working surroundings. Interesting developments are apparent in the romantic field, but be careful of telling too many people too soon. Time is on your side. Use it.

Taurus (Apr 21 - May 21) A challenge comes your way which you may be nervous about accepting, but go ahead with confidence and you may be surprised at how much you can achieve. Leos offer good career guidance.

Gemini (May 22 - June 21) This is a particularly favourable time for affairs of the heart. Take a good look at the way you are handling a personal situation as there is room for improvement if you make a special effort.

Cancer (June 22 - July 23) Try to be more friendly towards someone you're not very fond of. This is also a good time to try again with a project which you failed at in the past. Experience has made you wise.

Leo (July 24 - Aug 23) This week appears to be the start of a much luckier phase for you. Don't keep looking back to the past, focus on the future. There's so much for you to enjoy, I can assure you my friend.

Virgo (Aug 24 - Sept 23) This is not the perfect day for taking chances I'm afraid, especially where money is concerned. Outside influences could cause some friction in a close relationship, but only if you allow it.

Libra (Sept 24 - Oct 23) Things could start to move with surprising speed from today onwards and some exciting events are indicated in your stars. Your future prospects brighten considerably and life and love start to get interesting again.

Scorpio (Oct 24 - Nov 22) You have a difficult decision to make and you may have to accept the lesser of two evils. More short distance travel than usual is forecast. Try to steer clear of a dispute in your circle.

Sagittarius (Nov 23 - Dec 21) There may be problems involving a social event but be careful of saying what you think others want to hear just to placate them. Your words could come back and bite you if you're not careful.

Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 20) If you feel you're getting into a rut, make an effort to find a new interest or project.

You're a sign who needs stimulation not boredom, so get out there and make your life count again.

Aquarius (Jan 21 - Feb 19) Someone who was in your life in the past is back in it again. Try not to take up the temptation to flirt if they're not giving you signals or you could burn the bridges you've built.

Pisces (Feb 20 - March 20) You may not be feeling at your best and you may have to delegate some of your chores to other people. Of course you could always try dealing with the real issue on your mind, couldn't you?

FAX: 1-800 231 312 E-MAIL: editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au

Bumper Sticker

■ Nature never intended us to pat ourselves on the back. If she had, our hinges would be different.

Birthdays/Celebrations

Trivia Challenge Answer: Carol

THe Way We Were

● Fast Winter Soup ■ Full of hearty vegetables, this speedy winter soup will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients (serves 2) 1 tbs olive oil 1 onion, chopped 1 long red chilli, seeds removed, finely chopped 1 celery stalk, chopped 1 carrot, chopped 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1 cup red lentils, rinsed, drained 1L (4 cups) chicken or vegetable stock Low-fat natural yoghurt, to serve Method Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, add the onion, chilli, celery and carrot and cook for 2-3 minutes.

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Add the red lentils and chicken or vegetable stock, bring to boil and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until lentils are tender.

Season with salt and pepper. Serve in bowls with a dollop of yoghurt.

■ Thursday, May 17. Observer reader Brad Matheson celebrates today.

■ Friday, May 18. Country singer Troy CassarDaley was born 47 years ago. Observer reader John Pitharas of Greensborough is 32. Birthday greetings to Nicki Wendt, Wendy Hargreaves and Ken Mackenzie-Forbes.

■ Saturday, May 19. Melbourne-born pianist David Helfgott is 65. Singer James Reyne is 55.

■ Sunday, May 20. We remember the late Raymond ‘Joff’ Ellen, entertainer, who was born on this day at Myrtleford in 1915. He died aged 84 in 1999. Politician Brian Dixon is 76.

TV newsreader Mal Walden was born in England 67 years ago.

■ Monday, May 21. Former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser is 82. Singer Sally Boyden is 47.

■ Tuesday, May 22. Football identity StanAlves is 66. Melbourne Lord Mayor Cr Robert Doyle is 59. Actor Gary Sweet was born in Coburg, 55 years ago.

Cheerios

Funny Signs ■ Seen in Manila, Philippines: “This is a private, controlled environment.

Poor people and other disturbing realities strictly prohibited. Thank you.”

Parental Advice ■ Seen in Sri Lanka: “Children should be carefully overlooked by parents.

“Thank you.”

Kitchen Memo ■ Housework is something that mums do - but nobody notices until she hasn’t done it.

● Sally Williams with Suzanne Carbone ■ A big cheerio to Sally Williams, who helps us buy better.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 19

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Weddings

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 25

Observer Classic Books

r

e rv S se U N Ob N IO BO CT SE

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Pride and Prejudice CHAPTER 45 - continued

Their visit did not continue long after the question and answer above mentioned; and while Mr. Darcy was attending them to their carriage Miss Bingley was venting her feelings in criticisms on Elizabeth’s person, behaviour, and dress. But Georgiana would not join her. Her brother’s recommendation was enough to ensure her favour; his judgement could not err.

And he had spoken in such terms of Elizabeth as to leave Georgiana without the power of finding her otherwise than lovely and amiable. When Darcy returned to the saloon, Miss Bingley could not help repeating to him some part of what she had been saying to his sister.

“How very ill Miss Eliza Bennet looks this morning, Mr. Darcy,” she cried; “I never in my life saw anyone so much altered as she is since the winter. She is grown so brown and coarse!

Louisa and I were agreeing that we should not have known her again.”

However little Mr. Darcy might have liked such an address, he contented himself with coolly replying that he perceived no other alteration than her being rather tanned, no miraculous consequence of travelling in the summer.

“For my own part,” she rejoined, “I must confess that I never could see any beauty in her.

Her face is too thin; her complexion has no brilliancy; and her features are not at all handsome.

Her nose wants character — there is nothing marked in its lines. Her teeth are tolerable, but not out of the common way; and as for her eyes, which have sometimes been called so fine, I could never see anything extraordinary in them.

They have a sharp, shrewish look, which I do not like at all; and in her air altogether there is a self-sufficiency without fashion, which is intolerable.”

Persuaded as Miss Bingley was that Darcy admired Elizabeth, this was not the best method of recommending herself; but angry people are not always wise; and in seeing him at last look somewhat nettled, she had all the success she expected. He was resolutely silent, however, and, from a determination of making him speak, she continued: “I remember, when we first knew her in Hertfordshire, how amazed we all were to find that she was a reputed beauty; and I particularly recollect your saying one night, after they had been dining at Netherfield, ‘SHE a beauty! — I should as soon call her mother a wit.’ But afterwards she seemed to improve on you, and I believe you thought her rather pretty at one time.”

“Yes,” replied Darcy, who could contain himself no longer, “but THAT was only when I first saw her, for it is many months since I have considered her as one of the handsomest women of my acquaintance.”

He then went away, and Miss Bingley was left to all the satisfaction of having forced him to say what gave no one any pain but herself.

Mrs. Gardiner and Elizabeth talked of all that had occurred during their visit, as they returned, except what had particularly interested them both. The look and behaviour of everybody they had seen were discussed, except of the person who had mostly engaged their attention. They talked of his sister, his friends, his house, his fruit — of everything but himself; yet Elizabeth was longing to know what Mrs. Gardiner thought of him, and Mrs. Gardiner would have been highly gratified by her niece’s beginning the subject.

CHAPTER 46

Elizabeth had been a good deal disappointed in not finding a letter from Jane on their first arrival at Lambton; and this disappointment had been renewed on each of the mornings that had now been spent there; but on the third her repining was over, and her sister justified, by the receipt of two letters from her at once, on one of which was marked that it had been missent elsewhere.

Elizabeth was not surprised at it, as Jane had written the direction remarkably ill.

They had just been preparing to walk as the letters came in; and her uncle and aunt, leaving her to enjoy them in quiet, set off by themselves.

The one missent must first be attended to; it had

● Jane Austen been written five days ago. The beginning contained an account of all their little parties and engagements, with such news as the country afforded; but the latter half, which was dated a day later, and written in evident agitation, gave more important intelligence. It was to this effect: “Since writing the above, dearest Lizzy, something has occurred of a most unexpected and serious nature; but I am afraid of alarming you — be assured that we are all well. What I have to say relates to poor Lydia. An express came at twelve last night, just as we were all gone to bed, from Colonel Forster, to inform us that she was gone off to Scotland with one of his officers; to own the truth, with Wickham! Imagine our surprise. To Kitty, however, it does not seem so wholly unexpected. I am very, very sorry. So imprudent a match on both sides! But I am willing to hope the best, and that his character has been misunderstood. Thoughtless and indiscreet I can easily believe him, but this step (and let us rejoice over it) marks nothing bad at heart. His choice is disinterested at least, for he must know my father can give her nothing. Our poor mother is sadly grieved. My father bears it better. How thankful am I that we never let them know what has been said against him; we must forget it ourselves. They were off Saturday night about twelve, as is conjectured, but were not missed till yesterday morning at eight. The express was sent off directly. My dear Lizzy, they must have passed within ten miles of us. Colonel Forster gives us reason to expect him here soon. Lydia left a few lines for his wife, informing her of their intention. I must conclude, for I cannot be long from my poor mother. I am afraid you will not be able to make it out, but I hardly know what I have written.”

Without allowing herself time for consideration, and scarcely knowing what she felt, Elizabeth on finishing this letter instantly seized the other, and opening it with the utmost impatience, read as follows: it had been written a day later than the conclusion of the first.

“By this time, my dearest sister, you have received my hurried letter; I wish this may be more intelligible, but though not confined for time, my head is so bewildered that I cannot answer for being coherent. Dearest Lizzy, I hardly know what I would write, but I have bad news for you, and it cannot be delayed. Imprudent as the marriage between Mr. Wickham and our poor Lydia would be, we are now anxious to be assured it has taken place, for there is but too much reason to fear they are not gone to Scotland. Colonel Forster came yesterday, having left Brighton the day before, not many hours after the express. Though Lydia’s short letter to Mrs. F. gave them to understand that they were going to Gretna Green, something was dropped by Denny expressing his belief that W. never intended to go there, or to marry Lydia at all, which was repeated to Colonel F., who, instantly taking the alarm, set off from B. intending to trace their route. He did trace them easily to Clapham, but no further; for on entering that place, they removed into a hackney coach, and dismissed the chaise that brought them from Epsom. All that is known after this is, that they were seen to continue the London road. I know not what to think. After making every possible inquiry on that side London, Colonel F. came on into Hertfordshire, anxiously renewing them at all the turnpikes, and at the inns in Barnet and Hatfield, but without any success — no such people had been seen to pass through. With the kindest concern he came on to Longbourn, and broke his apprehensions to us in a manner most creditable to his heart. I am sincerely grieved for him and Mrs. F., but no one can throw any blame on them. Our distress, my dear Lizzy, is very great. My father and mother believe the worst, but I cannot think so ill of him. Many circumstances might make it more eligible for them to be married privately in town than to pursue their first plan; and even if HE could form such a design against a young woman of Lydia’s connections, which is not likely, can I

suppose her so lost to everything? Impossible! I grieve to find, however, that Colonel F. is not disposed to depend upon their marriage; he shook his head when I expressed my hopes, and said he fear W. was not a man to be trusted. My poor mother is really ill, and keeps her room.

Could she exert herself, it would be better; but this is not to be expected. And as to my father, I never in my life saw him so affected. Poor Kitty has anger for having concealed their attachment; but as it was a matter of confidence, one cannot wonder. I am truly glad, dearest Lizzy, that you have been spared something of these distressing scenes; but now, as the first shock is over, shall I own that I long for your return? I am not so selfish, however, as to press for it, if inconvenient. Adieu! I take up my pen again to do what I have just told you I would not; but circumstances are such that I cannot help earnestly begging you all to come here as soon as possible. I know my dear uncle and aunt so well, that I am not afraid of requesting it, though I have still something more to ask of the former.

My father is going to London with Colonel Forster instantly, to try to discover her. What he means to do I am sure I know not; but his excessive distress will not allow him to pursue any measure in the best and safest way, and Colonel Forster is obliged to be at Brighton again tomorrow evening. In such and exigence, my uncle’s advice and assistance would be everything in the world; he will immediately comprehend what I must feel, and I rely upon his goodness.”

“Oh! where, where is my uncle?” cried Elizabeth, darting from her seat as she finished the letter, in eagerness to follow him, without losing a moment of the time so precious; but as she reached the door it was opened by a servant, and Mr. Darcy appeared. Her pale face and impetuous manner made him start, and before he could recover himself to speak, she, in whose mind every idea was superseded by Lydia’s situation, hastily exclaimed, “I beg your pardon, but I must leave you. I must find Mr. Gardiner this moment, on business that cannot be delayed; I have not an instant to lose.”

“Good God! what is the matter?” cried he, with more feeling than politeness; then recollecting himself, “I will not detain you a minute; but let me, or let the servant go after Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. You are not well enough; you cannot go yourself.”

Elizabeth hesitated, but her knees trembled under her and she felt how little would be gained by her attempting to pursue them. Calling back the servant, therefore, she commissioned him, though in so breathless an accent as made her almost unintelligible, to fetch his master and mistress home instantly.

On his quitting the room she sat down, unable to support herself, and looking so miserably ill, that it was impossible for Darcy to leave her, or to refrain from saying, in a tone of gentleness and commiseration, “Let me call your maid. Is there nothing you could take to give you present relief? A glass of wine; shall I get you one? You are very ill.”

“No, I thank you,” she replied, endeavouring to recover herself. “There is nothing the matter with me. I am quite well; I am only distressed by some dreadful news which I have just received from Longbourn.”

She burst into tears as she alluded to it, and for a few minutes could not speak another word.

Darcy, in wretched suspense, could only say something indistinctly of his concern, and observe her in compassionate silence. At length she spoke again. “I have just had a letter from Jane, with such dreadful news. It cannot be concealed from anyone. My younger sister has left all her friends — has eloped; has thrown herself into the power of — of Mr. Wickham. They are gone off together from Brighton. YOU know him too well to doubt the rest. She has no money, no connections, nothing that can tempt him to — she is lost for ever.”

Darcy was fixed in astonishment. “When I consider,” she added in a yet more agitated voice, “that I might have prevented it! I, who knew what he was. Had I but explained some part of it only — some part of what I learnt, to my own

Continued on Page 26

Page 26 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

From Page 25 family! Had his character been known, this could not have happened. But it is all — all too late now.”

“I am grieved indeed,” cried Darcy; “grieved — shocked. But is it certain — absolutely certain?”

“Oh, yes! They left Brighton together on Sunday night, and were traced almost to London, but not beyond; they are certainly not gone to Scotland.”

“And what has been done, what has been attempted, to recover her?”

“My father is gone to London, and Jane has written to beg my uncle’s immediate assistance; and we shall be off, I hope, in half-an-hour. But nothing can be done — I know very well that nothing can be done. How is such a man to be worked on? How are they even to be discovered? I have not the smallest hope. It is every way horrible!”

Darcy shook his head in silent acquiescence.

“When MY eyes were opened to his real character — Oh! had I known what I ought, what I dared to do! But I knew not — I was afraid of doing too much. Wretched, wretched mistake!”

Darcy made no answer. He seemed scarcely to hear her, and was walking up and down the room in earnest meditation, his brow contracted, his air gloomy. Elizabeth soon observed, and instantly understood it. Her power was sinking; everything MUST sink under such a proof of family weakness, such an assurance of the deepest disgrace. She could neither wonder nor condemn, but the belief of his self-conquest brought nothing to her consolatory to her bosom, afforded no palliation of her distress. It was, on the contrary, exactly calculated to make her understand her own wishes; and never had she so honestly felt that she could have loved him, as now, when all love must be vain.

But self, though it would intrude, could not engross her. Lydia — the humiliation, the misery she was bringing on them all, soon swallowed up every private care; and covering her face with her handkerchief, Elizabeth was soon lost to everything else; and, after a pause of several minutes, was only recalled to a sense of her situation by the voice of her companion, who, in a manner which, though it spoke compassion, spoke likewise restraint, said, “I am afraid you have been long desiring my absence, nor have I anything to plead in excuse of my stay, but real, though unavailing concern. Would to Heaven that anything could be either said or done on my part that might offer consolation to such distress!

But I will not torment you with vain wishes, which may seem purposely to ask for your thanks. This unfortunate affair will, I fear, prevent my sister’s having the pleasure of seeing you at Pemberley to-day.”

“Oh, yes. Be so kind as to apologise for us to Miss Darcy. Say that urgent business calls us home immediately. Conceal the unhappy truth as long as it is possible, I know it cannot be long.”

He readily assured her of his secrecy; again expressed his sorrow for her distress, wished it a happier conclusion than there was at present reason to hope, and leaving his compliments for her relations, with only one serious, parting look, went away.

As he quitted the room, Elizabeth felt how improbable it was that they should ever see each other again on such terms of cordiality as had marked their several meetings in Derbyshire; and as she threw a retrospective glance over the whole of their acquaintance, so full of contradictions and varieties, sighed at the perverseness of those feelings which would now have promoted its continuance, and would formerly have rejoiced in its termination.

If gratitude and esteem are good foundations of affection, Elizabeth’s change of sentiment will be neither improbable nor faulty. But if otherwise — if regard springing from such sources is unreasonable or unnatural, in comparison of what is so often described as arising on a first interview with its object, and even before two words have been exchanged, nothing can be said in her defence, except that she had given somewhat of a trial to the latter method in her partiality for Wickham, and that its ill success might, perhaps, authorise her to seek the other less interesting mode of attachment. Be that as it may, she saw him go with regret; and in this early example of what Lydia’s infamy must produce, found additional anguish as she reflected on that wretched business. Never, since reading Jane’s second letter, had she entertained a hope

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Observer Classic Books of Wickham’s meaning to marry her. No one but Jane, she thought, could flatter herself with such an expectation. Surprise was the least of her feelings on this development. While the contents of the first letter remained in her mind, she was all surprise — all astonishment that Wickham should marry a girl whom it was impossible he could marry for money; and how Lydia could ever have attached him had appeared incomprehensible. But now it was all too natural. For such an attachment as this she might have sufficient charms; and though she did not suppose Lydia to be deliberately engaging in an elopement without the intention of marriage, she had no difficulty in believing that neither her virtue nor her understanding would preserve her from falling an easy prey.

She had never perceived, while the regiment was in Hertfordshire, that Lydia had any partiality for him; but she was convinced that Lydia wanted only encouragement to attach herself to anybody. Sometimes one officer, sometimes another, had been her favourite, as their attentions raised them in her opinion. Her affections had continually been fluctuating but never without an object. The mischief of neglect and mistaken indulgence towards such a girl — oh! how acutely did she now feel it!

She was wild to be at home — to hear, to see, to be upon the spot to share with Jane in the cares that must now fall wholly upon her, in a family so deranged, a father absent, a mother incapable of exertion, and requiring constant attendance; and though almost persuaded that nothing could be done for Lydia, her uncle’s interference seemed of the utmost importance, and till he entered the room her impatience was severe. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner had hurried back in alarm, supposing by the servant’s account that their niece was taken suddenly ill; but satisfying them instantly on that head, she eagerly communicated the cause of their summons, reading the two letters aloud, and dwelling on the postscript of the last with trembling energy, though Lydia had never been a favourite with them, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner could not but be deeply afflicted. Not Lydia only, but all were concerned in it; and after the first exclamations of surprise and horror, Mr. Gardiner promised every assistance in his power. Elizabeth, though expecting no less, thanked him with tears of gratitude; and all three being actuated by one spirit, everything relating to their journey was speedily settled.

They were to be off as soon as possible. “But what is to be done about Pemberley?” cried Mrs. Gardiner. “John told us Mr. Darcy was here when you sent for us; was it so?”

“Yes; and I told him we should not be able to keep our engagement. THAT is all settled.”

“What is all settled?” repeated the other, as she ran into her room to prepare. “And are they upon such terms as for her to disclose the real truth?

Oh, that I knew how it was!”

But wishes were vain, or at least could only serve to amuse her in the hurry and confusion of the following hour. Had Elizabeth been at leisure to be idle, she would have remained certain that all employment was impossible to one so wretched as herself; but she had her share of business as well as her aunt, and amongst the rest there were notes to be written to all their friends at Lambton, with false excuses for their sudden departure. An hour, however, saw the whole completed; and Mr. Gardiner meanwhile having settled his account at the inn, nothing remained to be done but to go; and Elizabeth, after all the misery of the morning, found herself, in a shorter space of time than she could have supposed, seated in the carriage, and on the road to Longbourn.

CHAPTER 47 “I have been thinking it over again, Elizabeth,” said her uncle, as they drove from the town; “and really, upon serious consideration, I am much more inclined than I was to judge as your eldest sister does on the matter. It appears to me so very unlikely that any young man should form such a design against a girl who is by no means unprotected or friendless, and who was actually staying in his colonel’s family, that I am strongly inclined to hope the best. Could he expect that her friends would not step forward? Could he expect to be noticed again by the regiment, after such an affront to Colonel Forster? His temptation is not adequate to the risk!”

“Do you really think so?” cried Elizabeth, brightening up for a moment.

“Upon my word,” said Mrs. Gardiner, “I begin to be of your uncle’s opinion. It is really too great

a violation of decency, honour, and interest, for him to be guilty of. I cannot think so very ill of Wickham. Can you yourself, Lizzy, so wholly give him up, as to believe him capable of it?”

“Not, perhaps, of neglecting his own interest; but of every other neglect I can believe him capable. If, indeed, it should be so! But I dare not hope it. Why should they not go on to Scotland if that had been the case?”

“In the first place,” replied Mr. Gardiner, “there is no absolute proof that they are not gone to Scotland.”

“Oh! but their removing from the chaise into a hackney coach is such a presumption! And, besides, no traces of them were to be found on the Barnet road.”

“Well, then — supposing them to be in London.

They may be there, though for the purpose of concealment, for no more exceptional purpose.

It is not likely that money should be very abundant on either side; and it might strike them that they could be more economically, though less expeditiously, married in London than in Scotland.”

“But why all this secrecy? Why any fear of detection? Why must their marriage be private?

Oh, no, no — this is not likely. His most particular friend, you see by Jane’s account, was persuaded of his never intending to marry her.

Wickham will never marry a woman without some money. He cannot afford it. And what claims has Lydia — what attraction has she beyond youth, health, and good humour that could make him, for her sake, forego every chance of benefiting himself by marrying well? As to what restraint the apprehensions of disgrace in the corps might throw on a dishonourable elopement with her, I am not able to judge; for I know nothing of the effects that such a step might produce. But as to your other objection, I am afraid it will hardly hold good. Lydia has no brothers to step forward; and he might imagine, from my father’s behaviour, from his indolence and the little attention he has ever seemed to give to what was going forward in his family, that HE would do as little, and think as little about it, as any father could do, in such a matter.”

“But can you think that Lydia is so lost to everything but love of him as to consent to live with him on any terms other than marriage?”

“It does seem, and it is most shocking indeed,” replied Elizabeth, with tears in her eyes, “that a sister’s sense of decency and virtue in such a point should admit of doubt. But, really, I know not what to say. Perhaps I am not doing her justice. But she is very young; she has never been taught to think on serious subjects; and for the last half-year, nay, for a twelvemonth — she has been given up to nothing but amusement and vanity. She has been allowed to dispose of her time in the most idle and frivolous manner, and to adopt any opinions that came in her way.

Since the —— shire were first quartered in Meryton, nothing but love, flirtation, and officers have been in her head. She has been doing everything in her power by thinking and talking on the subject, to give greater — what shall I call it? susceptibility to her feelings; which are naturally lively enough. And we all know that Wickham has every charm of person and address that can captivate a woman.”

“But you see that Jane,” said her aunt, “does not think so very ill of Wickham as to believe him capable of the attempt.”

“Of whom does Jane ever think ill? And who is there, whatever might be their former conduct, that she would think capable of such an attempt, till it were proved against them? But Jane knows, as well as I do, what Wickham really is. We both know that he has been profligate in every sense of the word; that he has neither integrity nor honour; that he is as false and deceitful as he is insinuating.”

“And do you really know all this?” cried Mrs. Gardiner, whose curiosity as to the mode of her intelligence was all alive.

“I do indeed,” replied Elizabeth, colouring. “I told you, the other day, of his infamous behaviour to Mr. Darcy; and you yourself, when last at Longbourn, heard in what manner he spoke of the man who had behaved with such forbearance and liberality towards him. And there are other circumstances which I am not at liberty — which it is not worth while to relate; but his lies about the whole Pemberley family are endless.

From what he said of Miss Darcy I was thoroughly prepared to see a proud, reserved, disagreeable girl. Yet he knew to the contrary himself. He must know that she was as amiable and unpretending as we have found her.”

“But does Lydia know nothing of this? can she be ignorant of what you and Jane seem so well to understand?”

“Oh, yes! — that, that is the worst of all. Till I was in Kent, and saw so much both of Mr. Darcy and his relation Colonel Fitzwilliam, I was ignorant of the truth myself. And when I returned home, the —— shire was to leave Meryton in a week or fortnight’s time. As that was the case, neither Jane, to whom I related the whole, nor I, thought it necessary to make our knowledge public; for of what use could it apparently be to any one, that the good opinion which all the neighbourhood had of him should then be overthrown? And even when it was settled that Lydia should go with Mrs. Forster, the necessity of opening her eyes to his character never occurred to me. That SHE could be in any danger from the deception never entered my head. That such a consequence as THIS could ensue, you may easily believe, was far enough from my thoughts.”

“When they all removed to Brighton, therefore, you had no reason, I suppose, to believe them fond of each other?”

“Not the slightest. I can remember no symptom of affection on either side; and had anything of the kind been perceptible, you must be aware that ours is not a family on which it could be thrown away. When first he entered the corps, she was ready enough to admire him; but so we all were. Every girl in or near Meryton was out of her senses about him for the first two months; but he never distinguished HER by any particular attention; and, consequently, after a moderate period of extravagant and wild admiration, her fancy for him gave way, and others of the regiment, who treated her with more distinction, again became her favourites.”

It may be easily believed, that however little of novelty could be added to their fears, hopes, and conjectures, on this interesting subject, by its repeated discussion, no other could detain them from it long, during the whole of the journey. From Elizabeth’s thoughts it was never absent. Fixed there by the keenest of all anguish, self-reproach, she could find no interval of ease or forgetfulness.

They travelled as expeditiously as possible, and, sleeping one night on the road, reached Longbourn by dinner time the next day. It was a comfort to Elizabeth to consider that Jane could not have been wearied by long expectations.

The little Gardiners, attracted by the sight of a chaise, were standing on the steps of the house as they entered the paddock; and, when the carriage drove up to the door, the joyful surprise that lighted up their faces, and displayed itself over their whole bodies, in a variety of capers and frisks, was the first pleasing earnest of their welcome.

Elizabeth jumped out; and, after giving each of them a hasty kiss, hurried into the vestibule, where Jane, who came running down from her mother’s apartment, immediately met her.

Elizabeth, as she affectionately embraced her, whilst tears filled the eyes of both, lost not a moment in asking whether anything had been heard of the fugitives.

“Not yet,” replied Jane. “But now that my dear uncle is come, I hope everything will be well.”

“Is my father in town?”

“Yes, he went on Tuesday, as I wrote you word.”

“And have you heard from him often?”

“We have heard only twice. He wrote me a few lines on Wednesday to say that he had arrived in safety, and to give me his directions, which I particularly begged him to do. He merely added that he should not write again till he had something of importance to mention.”

“And my mother — how is she? How are you all?”

“My mother is tolerably well, I trust; though her spirits are greatly shaken. She is upstairs and will have great satisfaction in seeing you all.

She does not yet leave her dressing-room. Mary and Kitty are, thank Heaven, are quite well.”

“But you — how are you?” cried Elizabeth. “You look pale. How much you must have gone through!”

Her sister, however, assured her of her being perfectly well; and their conversation, which had been passing while Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were engaged with their children, was now put an end to by the approach of the whole party. Jane ran to her uncle and aunt, and welcomed and thanked them both, with alternate smiles and tears.

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From Page 26 questions which Elizabeth had already asked were of course repeated by the others, and they soon found that Jane had no intelligence to give.

The sanguine hope of good, however, which the benevolence of her heart suggested had not yet deserted her; she still expected that it would all end well, and that every morning would bring some letter, either from Lydia or her father, to explain their proceedings, and, perhaps, announce their marriage.

Mrs. Bennet, to whose apartment they all repaired, after a few minutes’ conversation together, received them exactly as might be expected; with tears and lamentations of regret, invectives against the villainous conduct of Wickham, and complaints of her own sufferings and ill-usage; blaming everybody but the person to whose ill-judging indulgence the errors of her daughter must principally be owing.

“If I had been able,” said she, “to carry my point in going to Brighton, with all my family, THIS would not have happened; but poor dear Lydia had nobody to take care of her. Why did the Forsters ever let her go out of their sight? I am sure there was some great neglect or other on their side, for she is not the kind of girl to do such a thing if she had been well looked after. I always thought they were very unfit to have the charge of her; but I was overruled, as I always am. Poor dear child! And now here’s Mr. Bennet gone away, and I know he will fight Wickham, wherever he meets him and then he will be killed, and what is to become of us all? The Collinses will turn us out before he is cold in his grave, and if you are not kind to us, brother, I do not know what we shall do.”

They all exclaimed against such terrific ideas; and Mr. Gardiner, after general assurances of his affection for her and all her family, told her that he meant to be in London the very next day, and would assist Mr. Bennet in every endeavour for recovering Lydia.

“Do not give way to useless alarm,” added he; “though it is right to be prepared for the worst, there is no occasion to look on it as certain. It is not quite a week since they left Brighton. In a few days more we may gain some news of them; and till we know that they are not married, and have no design of marrying, do not let us give the matter over as lost. As soon as I get to town I shall go to my brother, and make him come home with me to Gracechurch Street; and then we may consult together as to what is to be done.”

“Oh! my dear brother,” replied Mrs. Bennet, “that is exactly what I could most wish for. And now do, when you get to town, find them out, wherever they may be; and if they are not married already, MAKE them marry. And as for wedding clothes, do not let them wait for that, but tell Lydia she shall have as much money as she chooses to buy them, after they are married. And, above all, keep Mr. Bennet from fighting. Tell him what a dreadful state I am in, that I am frighted out of my wits — and have such tremblings, such flutterings, all over me — such spasms in my side and pains in my head, and such beatings at heart, that I can get no rest by night nor by day. And tell my dear Lydia not to give any directions about her clothes till she has seen me, for she does not know which are the best warehouses. Oh, brother, how kind you are!

I know you will contrive it all.”

But Mr. Gardiner, though he assured her again of his earnest endeavours in the cause, could not avoid recommending moderation to her, as well in her hopes as her fear; and after talking with her in this manner till dinner was on the table, they all left her to vent all her feelings on the housekeeper, who attended in the absence of her daughters.

Though her brother and sister were persuaded that there was no real occasion for such a seclusion from the family, they did not attempt to oppose it, for they knew that she had not prudence enough to hold her tongue before the servants, while they waited at table, and judged it better that ONE only of the household, and the one whom they could most trust should comprehend all her fears and solicitude on the subject.

In the dining-room they were soon joined by Mary and Kitty, who had been too busily engaged in their separate apartments to make their appearance before. One came from her books, and the other from her toilette. The faces of both, however, were tolerably calm; and no change was visible in either, except that the loss of her favourite sister, or the anger which she had herself incurred in this business, had given

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Observer Classic Books more of fretfulness than usual to the accents of Kitty. As for Mary, she was mistress enough of herself to whisper to Elizabeth, with a countenance of grave reflection, soon after they were seated at table: “This is a most unfortunate affair, and will probably be much talked of. But we must stem the tide of malice, and pour into the wounded bosoms of each other the balm of sisterly consolation.”

Then, perceiving in Elizabeth no inclination of replying, she added, “Unhappy as the event must be for Lydia, we may draw from it this useful lesson: that loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable; that one false step involves her in endless ruin; that her reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful; and that she cannot be too much guarded in her behaviour towards the undeserving of the other sex.”

Elizabeth lifted up her eyes in amazement, but was too much oppressed to make any reply.

Mary, however, continued to console herself with such kind of moral extractions from the evil before them.

In the afternoon, the two elder Miss Bennets were able to be for half-an-hour by themselves; and Elizabeth instantly availed herself of the opportunity of making any inquiries, which Jane was equally eager to satisfy. After joining in general lamentations over the dreadful sequel of this event, which Elizabeth considered as all but certain, and Miss Bennet could not assert to be wholly impossible, the former continued the subject, by saying, “But tell me all and everything about it which I have not already heard.

Give me further particulars. hat did Colonel Forster say? Had they no apprehension of anything before the elopement took place? They must have seen them together for ever.”

“Colonel Forster did own that he had often suspected some partiality, especially on Lydia’s side, but nothing to give him any alarm. I am so grieved for him! His behaviour was attentive and kind to the utmost. He WAS coming to us, in order to assure us of his concern, before he had any idea of their not being gone to Scotland: when that apprehension first got abroad, it hastened his journey.”

“And was Denny convinced that Wickham would not marry? Did he know of their intending to go off? Had Colonel Forster seen Denny himself?”

“Yes; but, when questioned by HIM, Denny denied knowing anything of their plans, and would not give his real opinion about it. He did not repeat his persuasion of their not marrying — and from THAT, I am inclined to hope, he might have been misunderstood before.”

“And till Colonel Forster came himself, not one of you entertained a doubt, I suppose, of their being really married?”

“How was it possible that such an idea should enter our brains? I felt a little uneasy — a little fearful of my sister’s happiness with him in marriage, because I knew that his conduct had not been always quite right. My father and mother knew nothing of that; they only felt how imprudent a match it must be. Kitty then owned, with a very natural triumph on knowing more than the rest of us, that in Lydia’s last letter she had prepared her for such a step. She had known, it seems, of their being in love with each other, many weeks.”

“But not before they went to Brighton?”

“No, I believe not.”

“And did Colonel Forster appear to think well of Wickham himself? Does he know his real character?”

“I must confess that he did not speak so well of Wickham as he formerly did. He believed him to be imprudent and extravagant. And since this sad affair has taken place, it is said that he left Meryton greatly in debt; but I hope this may be false.”

“Oh, Jane, had we been less secret, had we told what we knew of him, this could not have happened!”

“Perhaps it would have been better,” replied her sister. “But to expose the former faults of any person without knowing what their present feelings were, seemed unjustifiable. We acted with the best intentions.”

“Could Colonel Forster repeat the particulars of Lydia’s note to his wife?”

“He brought it with him for us to see.”

Jane then took it from her pocket-book, and gave it to Elizabeth. These were the contents: “MY DEAR HARRIET, “You will laugh when you know where I am gone, and I cannot help laughing myself at your

surprise to-morrow morning, as soon as I am missed. I am going to Gretna Green, and if you cannot guess with who, I shall think you a simpleton, for there is but one man in the world I love, and he is an angel. I should never be happy without him, so think it no harm to be off. You need not send them word at Longbourn of my going, if you do not like it, for it will make the surprise the greater, when I write to them and sign my name ‘Lydia Wickham.’ What a good joke it will be! I can hardly write for laughing.

Pray make my excuses to Pratt for not keeping my engagement, and dancing with him to-night.

Tell him I hope he will excuse me when he knows all; and tell him I will dance with him at the next ball we meet, with great pleasure. I shall send for my clothes when I get to Longbourn; but I wish you would tell Sally to mend a great slit in my worked muslin gown before they are packed up. Good-bye. Give my love to Colonel Forster. I hope you will drink to our good journey.

“Your affectionate friend, “LYDIA BENNET.” “Oh! thoughtless, thoughtless Lydia!” cried Elizabeth when she had finished it. “What a letter is this, to be written at such a moment! But at least it shows that SHE was serious on the subject of their journey. Whatever he might afterwards persuade her to, it was not on her side a SCHEME of infamy. My poor father! how he must have felt it!”

“I never saw anyone so shocked. He could not speak a word for full ten minutes. My mother was taken ill immediately, and the whole house in such confusion!”

“Oh! Jane,” cried Elizabeth, “was there a servant belonging to it who did not know the whole story before the end of the day?”

“I do not know. I hope there was. But to be guarded at such a time is very difficult. My mother was in hysterics, and though I endeavoured to give her every assistance in my power, I am afraid I did not do so much as I might have done! But the horror of what might possibly happen almost took from me my faculties.”

“Your attendance upon her has been too much for you. You do not look well. Oh that I had been with you! you have had every care and anxiety upon yourself alone.”

“Mary and Kitty have been very kind, and would have shared in every fatigue, I am sure; but I did not think it right for either of them. Kitty is slight and delicate; and Mary studies so much, that her hours of repose should not be broken in on.

My aunt Phillips came to Longbourn on Tuesday, after my father went away; and was so good as to stay till Thursday with me. She was of great use and comfort to us all. And Lady Lucas has been very kind; she walked here on Wednesday morning to condole with us, and offered her services, or any of her daughters’, if they should be of use to us.”

“She had better have stayed at home,” cried Elizabeth; “perhaps she MEANT well, but, under such a misfortune as this, one cannot see too little of one’s neighbours. Assistance is impossible; condolence insufferable. Let them triumph over us at a distance, and be satisfied.”

She then proceeded to inquire into the measures which her father had intended to pursue, while in town, for the recovery of his daughter.

“He meant I believe,” replied Jane, “to go to Epsom, the place where they last changed horses, see the postilions and try if anything could be made out from them. His principal object must be to discover the number of the hackney coach which took them from Clapham. It had come with a fare from London; and as he thought that the circumstance of a gentleman and lady’s removing from one carriage into another might be remarked he meant to make inquiries at Clapham. If he could anyhow discover at what house the coachman had before set down his fare, he determined to make inquiries there, and hoped it might not be impossible to find out the stand and number of the coach. I do not know of any other designs that he had formed; but he was in such a hurry to be gone, and his spirits so greatly discomposed, that I had difficulty in finding out even so much as this.”

CHAPTER 48 The whole party were in hopes of a letter from Mr. Bennet the next morning, but the post came in without bringing a single line from him. His family knew him to be, on all common occasions, a most negligent and dilatory correspondent; but at such a time they had hoped for exer-

tion. They were forced to conclude that he had no pleasing intelligence to send; but even of THAT they would have been glad to be certain.

Mr. Gardiner had waited only for the letters before he set off.

When he was gone, they were certain at least of receiving constant information of what was going on, and their uncle promised, at parting, to prevail on Mr. Bennet to return to Longbourn, as soon as he could, to the great consolation of his sister, who considered it as the only security for her husband’s not being killed in a duel.

Mrs. Gardiner and the children were to remain in Hertfordshire a few days longer, as the former thought her presence might be serviceable to her nieces. She shared in their attendance on Mrs. Bennet, and was a great comfort to them in their hours of freedom. Their other aunt also visited them frequently, and always, as she said, with the design of cheering and heartening them up — though, as she never came without reporting some fresh instance of Wickham’s extravagance or irregularity, she seldom went away without leaving them more dispirited than she found them.

All Meryton seemed striving to blacken the man who, but three months before, had been almost an angel of light. He was declared to be in debt to every tradesman in the place, and his intrigues, all honoured with the title of seduction, had been extended into every tradesman’s family. Everybody declared that he was the wickedest young man in the world; and everybody began to find out that they had always distrusted the appearance of his goodness. Elizabeth, though she did not credit above half of what was said, believed enough to make her former assurance of her sister’s ruin more certain; and even Jane, who believed still less of it, became almost hopeless, more especially as the time was now come when, if they had gone to Scotland, which she had never before entirely despaired of, they must in all probability have gained some news of them.

Mr. Gardiner left Longbourn on Sunday; on Tuesday his wife received a letter from him; it told them that, on his arrival, he had immediately found out his brother, and persuaded him to come to Gracechurch Street; that Mr. Bennet had been to Epsom and Clapham, before his arrival, but without gaining any satisfactory information; and that he was now determined to inquire at all the principal hotels in town, as Mr. Bennet thought it possible they might have gone to one of them, on their first coming to London, before they procured lodgings. Mr. Gardiner himself did not expect any success from this measure, but as his brother was eager in it, he meant to assist him in pursuing it. He added that Mr. Bennet seemed wholly disinclined at present to leave London and promised to write again very soon. There was also a postscript to this effect: “I have written to Colonel Forster to desire him to find out, if possible, from some of the young man’s intimates in the regiment, whether Wickham has any relations or connections who would be likely to know in what part of town he has now concealed himself. If there were anyone that one could apply to with a probability of gaining such a clue as that, it might be of essential consequence. At present we have nothing to guide us. Colonel Forster will, I dare say, do everything in his power to satisfy us on this head.

But, on second thoughts, perhaps, Lizzy could tell us what relations he has now living, better than any other person.”

Elizabeth was at no loss to understand from whence this deference to her authority proceeded; but it was not in her power to give any information of so satisfactory a nature as the compliment deserved. She had never heard of his having had any relations, except a father and mother, both of whom had been dead many years. It was possible, however, that some of his companions in the —— shire might be able to give more information; and though she was not very sanguine in expecting it, the application was a something to look forward to.

Every day at Longbourn was now a day of anxiety; but the most anxious part of each was when the post was expected. The arrival of letters was the grand object of every morning’s impatience.

Through letters, whatever of good or bad was to be told would be communicated, and every succeeding day was expected to bring some news of importance.

But before they heard again from Mr. Gardiner, a letter arrived for their father, from a different quarter, from Mr. Collins; which, as Jane had - Continued on Page 40

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Observer Classic Books From Page 30 received directions to open all that came for him in his absence, she accordingly read; and Elizabeth, who knew what curiosities his letters always were, looked over her, and read it likewise. It was as follows: “MY DEAR SIR, “I feel myself called upon, by our relationship, and my situation in life, to condole with you on the grievous affliction you are now suffering under, of which we were yesterday informed by a letter from Hertfordshire. Be assured, my dear sir, that Mrs. Collins and myself sincerely sympathise with you and all your respectable family, in your present distress, which must be of the bitterest kind, because proceeding from a cause which no time can remove. No arguments shall be wanting on my part that can alleviate so severe a misfortune — or that may comfort you, under a circumstance that must be of all others the most afflicting to a parent’s mind. The death of your daughter would have been a blessing in comparison of this. And it is the more to be lamented, because there is reason to suppose as my dear Charlotte informs me, that this licentiousness of behaviour in your daughter has proceeded from a faulty degree of indulgence; though, at the same time, for the consolation of yourself and Mrs. Bennet, I am inclined to think that her own disposition must be naturally bad, or she could not be guilty of such an enormity, at so early an age. Howsoever that may be, you are grievously to be pitied; in which opinion I am not only joined by Mrs. Collins, but likewise

by Lady Catherine and her daughter, to whom I have related the affair. They agree with me in apprehending that this false step in one daughter will be injurious to the fortunes of all the others; for who, as Lady Catherine herself condescendingly says, will connect themselves with such a family? And this consideration leads me moreover to reflect, with augmented satisfaction, on a certain event of last November; for had it been otherwise, I must have been involved in all your sorrow and disgrace. Let me then advise you, dear sir, to console yourself as much as possible, to throw off your unworthy child from your affection for ever, and leave her to reap the fruits of her own heinous offense.

“I am, dear sir, etc., etc.”

Mr. Gardiner did not write again till he had re-

ceived an answer from Colonel Forster; and then he had nothing of a pleasant nature to send. It was not known that Wickham had a single relationship with whom he kept up any connection, and it was certain that he had no near one living.

His former acquaintances had been numerous; but since he had been in the militia, it did not appear that he was on terms of particular friendship with any of them. There was no one, therefore, who could be pointed out as likely to give any news of him. And in the wretched state of his own finances, there was a very powerful motive for secrecy, in addition to his fear of discovery by Lydia’s relations, for it had just transpired that he had left gaming debts behind him to a very considerable amount. Colonel Forster believed that more than a thousand pounds would be necessary to clear his expenses at Brighton.

He owed a good deal in town, but his debts of honour were still more formidable. Mr. Gardiner did not attempt to conceal these particulars from the Longbourn family. Jane heard them with horror. “A gamester!” she cried. “This is wholly unexpected. I had not an idea of it.”

Mr. Gardiner added in his letter, that they might expect to see their father at home on the following day, which was Saturday. Rendered spiritless by the ill-success of all their endeavours, he had yielded to his brother-in-law’s entreaty that he would return to his family, and leave it to him to do whatever occasion might suggest to be advisable for continuing their pursuit. When Mrs. Bennet was told of this, she did not express so much satisfaction as her children expected, considering what her anxiety for his life had been before.

“What, is he coming home, and without poor Lydia?” she cried. “Sure he will not leave London before he has found them. Who is to fight Wickham, and make him marry her, if he comes away?”

As Mrs. Gardiner began to wish to be at home, it was settled that she and the children should go to London, at the same time that Mr. Bennet came from it. The coach, therefore, took them the first stage of their journey, and brought its master back to Longbourn.

Mrs. Gardiner went away in all the perplexity about Elizabeth and her Derbyshire friend that had attended her from that part of the world. His name had never been voluntarily mentioned

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before them by her niece; and the kind of halfexpectation which Mrs. Gardiner had formed, of their being followed by a letter from him, had ended in nothing. Elizabeth had received none since her return that could come from Pemberley.

The present unhappy state of the family rendered any other excuse for the lowness of her spirits unnecessary; nothing, therefore, could be fairly conjectured from THAT, though Elizabeth, who was by this time tolerably well acquainted with her own feelings, was perfectly aware that, had she known nothing of Darcy, she could have borne the dread of Lydia’s infamy somewhat better. It would have spared her, she thought, one sleepless night out of two.

When Mr. Bennet arrived, he had all the appearance of his usual philosophic composure.

He said as little as he had ever been in the habit of saying; made no mention of the business that had taken him away, and it was some time before his daughters had courage to speak of it.

It was not till the afternoon, when he had joined them at tea, that Elizabeth ventured to introduce the subject; and then, on her briefly expressing her sorrow for what he must have endured, he replied, “Say nothing of that. Who should suffer but myself? It has been my own doing, and I ought to feel it.”

“You must not be too severe upon yourself,” replied Elizabeth.

“You may well warn me against such an evil.

Human nature is so prone to fall into it! No, Lizzy, let me once in my life feel how much I have been to blame. I am not afraid of being overpowered by the impression. It will pass away soon enough.”

“Do you suppose them to be in London?”

“Yes; where else can they be so well concealed?”

“And Lydia used to want to go to London,” added Kitty.

“She is happy then,” said her father drily; “and her residence there will probably be of some duration.”

Then after a short silence he continued: “Lizzy, I bear you no ill-will for being justified in your advice to me last May, which, considering the event, shows some greatness of mind.”

They were interrupted by Miss Bennet, who came to fetch her mother’s tea.

“This is a parade,” he cried, “which does one good; it gives such an elegance to misfortune!

Another day I will do the same; I will sit in my library, in my nightcap and powdering gown, and give as much trouble as I can; or, perhaps, I may defer it till Kitty runs away.”

“I am not going to run away, papa,” said Kitty fretfully. “If I should ever go to Brighton, I would behave better than Lydia.”

“YOU go to Brighton. I would not trust you so near it as Eastbourne for fifty pounds! No, Kitty, I have at last learnt to be cautious, and you will feel the effects of it. No officer is ever to enter into my house again, nor even to pass through the village. Balls will be absolutely prohibited, unless you stand up with one of your sisters.

And you are never to stir out of doors till you can prove that you have spent ten minutes of every day in a rational manner.”

Kitty, who took all these threats in a serious light, began to cry.

“Well, well,” said he, “do not make yourself unhappy. If you are a good girl for the next ten years, I will take you to a review at the end of them.”

CHAPTER 49

Two days after Mr. Bennet’s return, as Jane and Elizabeth were walking together in the shrubbery behind the house, they saw the housekeeper coming towards them, and, concluding that she came to call them to their mother, went forward to meet her; but, instead of the expected summons, when they approached her, she said to Miss Bennet, “I beg your pardon, madam, for interrupting you, but I was in hopes you might have got some good news from town, so I took the liberty of coming to ask.”

“What do you mean, Hill? We have heard nothing from town.”

“Dear madam,” cried Mrs. Hill, in great astonishment, “don’t you know there is an express come for master from Mr. Gardiner? He has been here this half-hour, and master has had a letter.”

To Be Continued Next Issue

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Page 42 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Places To Go

Accommodation starting from $220 inc hot breakfast History Tours & Lunch or Morning tea High Tea May 20 Morning Music May 30 Xmas in July dinner July 21 Sunday Roast Lunch Irish Band June 3.7.10.17,24

Rupertsood Mansion “Birthplace of the Ashes” 3 Macedon Street I PO Box 686 Sunbury 3429 T: +61 3 9740 5020 I F: +61 3 9740 3686 I w: www.rupertswood.com

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 43

Melbourne Seniors News

Twins Parks Village Boutique Retirement Living in Preston

Cnr Davis St & Tyler St, Preston 3072 Telephone: 8470 9888 or 0425 881 424 (Philip) E-Mail: tpacc@bigpond.net.au

Page 44 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

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Buying or Selling a Business?

Call Melbourne’s leading business brokers… www.bpabrokers.com.au BAR–LOUNGE - 5AM LICENSE TAKING $28,000 - $35,000

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY BUSINESS BROKERS

Excellent Melb City location, operating 2 nights only Friday & Saturday, large well setup venue, licensed for 500 patrons, secure lease & reasonable rental, long established Bar / Lounge, ideal for owner operator / investor, huge profits, must be sold, inspection highly recommended POA Call MARLEINE PORCELLATO 0414 933 007

-Are you interested in earning $100,000+ PA ?

-Are you a people person ?

-Are you a self motivated person ?

-Are you an Experienced broker ?

-Are you looking for excellent conditions?

-Are you looking for a long term career ?

-If you answered Yes to the above then Call Mino on 9485 4488 or 0414 886 364

CAFÉ “ ST KILDA “ $288,000

CAFÉ/FAST FOOD “RESERVOIR“ “ URGENT CHATTEL SALE “

Tkg $12,000 - $13,000, Fitzroy Street location, 7 days no nights, seating 84 in / out, long established venue, rent $1,000pw, lease 12 years, semi managed café, simple menu & operation, coffee sales 30+ kilos pw, well equipped, if you are looking for a solid business, look no further, ideal for owner operator, high profits, must inspect Call MINO STRONGHILIS 0414 886 364

CAFÉ – PATISERRIE – BAKERY “ PRIME KEW LOCATION “

Tkg $10,000, Closed Sundays, well equipped business, rent $458, lease 11 years, seats 34, coffee 12-15 kilos, this café was previously taking $14,000+ pw, current owner has no experience, minimal overheads, rare opportunity, definite improver, ideal family business, high profits, must inspect POA Call MATTHEW CHEUNG 0411 236 280

“ALBERT PARK” CAFE / RESTAURANT

Beautiful Restaurant & Cafe in Albert Park, Potential to reach $25,000-$30,000 pw, 6 days, Best Quality fitout & Equipment, Seats 120 patrons in/out, Liq License POA Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

CAFE / BAR / RESTAURANT “$395,000”

Tkg $20,000, Busy Moonee Ponds Entertainment Strip, 7 days, seats 130, well established, regular clientel, many forward bookings for functions, cheap rent, fully licensed Call GEOFF LEWIS 0418 502 754

FERGUSON PLARRE “BARGAIN”

Tkg $16,500 - $17,500, Closed Monday, large premises seating 65, only 2 owners since established in 1996, rent $656 pw, lease 12 years, full commercial kitchen, plenty of parking, excellent reputation, perfect business for family or partners, high profits, inspection highly recommended $348,000 Call MINO STRONGHILIS 0414 886 364

CHICKEN BAR TKG $26,000 PW

Western Suburbs, 7 days, Semi Managed, Brilliant setup, commercial equipment, simple operation, potential, Freehold also available, ideal for family or partners.

Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

CHARCOAL CHICKEN / TAKEAWAY

Tkg $14,000+, Outer Northern suburbs, excellent town centre location, rent $373, best of equipment, long established, no opposition, huge profits $318,000 ONO Call GEOFF LEWIS 0418 502 754

CHARCOAL CHICKEN “BAYSIDE AREA“

Tkg $14,000 - $18,000 pw, Nelson Place, excellent setup, seats 70 in/out, secure lease, best of locations, commercial kitchen, ideal for chef or family, must inspect Call GEOFF LEWIS 0418 502 754

CAFÉ “BRIDGE RD” RICHMOND

Tkg $11,000, corner location, 7 days 7.30 – 4, can trade nights, rent $1,326 incl outgoings, seats 70 in/out, lic 11pm, coffee 20+ kg, must see, All Offers Considered Call JOSIE LUCIANO 0400 566 146

CAFÉ “ CLIFTON HILL “

$269,000

Tkg $10,500, Queens Parade, excellent location, 7 days 7-5, rent $890, secure lease, seats 52, coffee 18+ kilos, owner selling after 10 years, definite improver, high profit Call JIMMY ALAME 0432 148 337

CAFÉ – SANDWICH BAR “DANDENONG“

Tkg $10,000, busy commercial / industrial estate, 5 days 6-3, seats 80+, large well equipped café, onsite car park, simple menu, 12 year lease, cannot be faulted $345,000 Call JIMMY ALAME 0432 148 337

CAFÉ “ HIGHPOINT SHOPPING CENTRE “

Tkg $10,000, busy food court location, previously taking $16,000+, buy now and reap the rewards once renovations are completed, great opportunity, well equipped, $320,000 Call GEOFF LEWIS 0418 502 754

CAFÉ “MELB UNIVERSITY PROXIMITY“

Tkg $8,500-$9,500 pw, busy location, 5.5 days, rent $644pw inc 4 bdrm dwelling, seats 45 in/out, coffee 19 kg, good setup, simple menu, ideal for couple $290,000 Call JIMMY ALAME 0432 148 337

CAFÉ “ FLINDERS ST “ NO COOKING

Tkg $4,500 - $5,000, located in foyer of office building, seats 26, coffee 15 kg, lease 16 yrs, rent $865 pw incl car park & outgoings, definite improver, suit 1st business POA Call JOSIE LUCIANO 0400 566 146

CAFÉ “ SOUTH YARRA “

Tkg $4,500, excellent Commercial Rd location, quality fitout, seats 60+ includes courtyard, lease 9 years, rent $1,328 pw includes 2 bedroom dwelling, must inspect POA Call MATTHEW CHEUNG 0411 236 280

CAFÉ / TAKEAWAY “ALTONA“ $79,000

TKG $7,000-$8,000, Ascot Vale shopping strip, 6 days, large well equipped business, rent $675, seats 20, simple operation, improver, ideal 1st business bargain, must see Call EVAN PAPADOPOULOS 0404 499 277 Tkg $7,000, excellent strip location, large well equipped operation, good lease, rental $680 pw, potential to double sales, requires experienced operator, must see $185,000 Call EVAN PAPADOPOULOS 0404 499 277

COFFEE, NUTS, SPICES, TKG $13,000 PW

Excellent business, Tkg $13,000 pw, Major Shopping Centre Location, Great exposure, Huge potential, Coffee, Nuts, Spices, Simple business, Asking $189,000 + Stock Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

COLD ROCK ICE-CREAM FRANCHISE

Fantastic St.Kilda beach location, huge weekly turnover, fully under management, ideal for owner operator, get in early and capitalise on summer! only $110,000 plus stock Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

DELICATESSAN TKG $25,000 PW !

Tkg $14,000, Major West suburbs S/Centre, successful franchise, rent $1,300 pw, excellent location, fully refurbished, operates under management, improver, NO COOKING OR BAKING, Excellent franchisor support , great for a H+W team, cannot be faulted, good profits, MUST BE SOLD, reduced for quick sale, will not last, must inspect $228,000 Call GEOFF LEWIS 0418 502 754

MILK BAR-TKG $14,500 PW “POTENTIAL”

Northern Suburbs, Large Lock-Up Shop, 7 days, Secure 12yr lease, cheap rent $430pw, Simple operation, no food, ideal family business, h/profits, Must Sell, Negotiable Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

PIZZA TAKEAWAY TKG $25,000 PW

Brand new shop, 9 months old, taking $25,000 pw, Secure lease, Great rental, huge potential for growth, massive expanding area, brand new fitout & equipment - POA Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

PIZZA RESTAURANT TKG $12,000 PW

Beautiful setup restaurant, licensed until 11pm, Moonee Ponds area, 6 nights only, no delivery, recently renovated, seats 70, ideal for an experienced operator, $329,000 Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

RESTAURANT GREENSBOROUGH

Huge premise, Tkg $11,000, excellent location, opportunity for cuisine change, Seats 150+ patrons, 70 onsite parking, Commercial Kitchen, Secure 15 yr lease, $159,000 Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

RESTAURANT/CREPERIE STH YARRA

Taking $5,500 pw, brilliant Main Rd. location, huge potential to grow, full commercial kitchen & setup, large seating capacity, simple operation, must inspect $159,000 Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

SANDWICH BAR & CONFECTIONARY

Taking $11,000, Berwick , closed Sunday, busy shopping precinct, coffee 5 kilos, lease 10 years, newly renovated, simple operation, no cooking, high profits $298,000 ONO Call MARLEINE PORCELLATO 0414 933 007

SANDWICH BAR / CAFÉ “ LAVERTON “

Beautiful Deli setup, Major Northern Shopping centre, Taking $25,000 pw, Nuts, Coffee, Grocery, Great location, Secure lease & rent, Absolute Bargain, Call Now $179,000 Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

Tkg $8,500 - $9,000, no opposition, 5 days 6-3, new estate, rent $550, best of equipment, only 2 years old, lease 20 years, still growing, best on the market, h/profit $298,000 Call MINO STRONGHILIS 0414 886 364

FISH & CHIPS “NORTH SUBURBS“ $398K

SANDWICH BAR / CAFÉ “ NORTH MELB “

Tkg $15,000 - $16,000, excellent location, 6 days, large shop, modern equipment, established business, rent $588, lease 15yrs, best on market, suit family or partners Call EVAN PAPADOPOULOS 0404 499 277

FISH & CHIPS “TAYLORS LAKES FRINGE“

TKG $8,000 - $8,500, no opposition, located in local strip, excellent equipment, closed Mondays, rent $450, secure lease, ideal 1st business, huge profit $198,000 ONO Call MATTHEW CHEUNG 0411 236 280

HAND CAR WASH “ GEELONG “

T/O $11,200 pw, city centre location, rent $1,164 pw, franchise brand name, simple operation, low overheads, fully computerised, suit owner operator, h/profits $365,000 Call PATRICK MAYA 0407 910 810

HEALTHY LIFE FRANCHISE TKG $16,500

Tkg $8,000+, simple 5 day operation, rent $388, seats 16 in/out, mainly sandwiches & takeaway food, coffee 7 kilos, ideal 1st business, must inspect $188,000 ONO Call MATTHEW CHEUNG 0411 236 280

SANDWICH BAR “ MALVERN ROAD “

Tkg $3,800 ave, busy corner location, rent $332, Closed Sunday short hours, simple menu, operated by 1 owner + 1 employee, definite improver, ideal 1st business $85,000 Call JIMMY ALAME 0432 148 337

SUPERMARKET IGA “TAKING $65,000”

West Suburbs location, large property, onsite parking for 100 cars, has all major departments, well equipped, fully managed business, high profits, must see $780,000 + SAV Call RAY FARAH 0425 861 467

SUPERMARKET “ FOODWORKS “ POA

Huge turnover of $16,500 pw, brilliant location, major shopping centre, northern suburbs, fully managed, health products/supplements/vitamins, Must Sell $149,000 Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

Tkg $30,000, Located North Subs, large property of 500sqm, caters for major departments, onsite parking, 25yr lease, well equipped, h/profits, ideal family business Call JIMMY ALAME 0432 148 337

MECHANICAL (AUTO) WORKSHOP

TAKEAWAY FOOD “DEER PARK“ 6 DAYS

Tkg $9,000 pw, well equipped setup, established 24 yrs, located busy city fringe, strong client base, RACV approved, suit mechanic, owner operator, $165,000 Call GEOFF LEWIS 0418 502 754

MILKBAR TAKING $20,000 PW

Tkg $3,500 pw, Closed Sunday short hours, rent $307 pw, new lease, seats 39, simple menu & operation, well equipped, suit 1st businesS, good profits, must see Call JIMMY ALAME 0432 148 337

Excellent business, fantastic 4 bed dwelling at the rear, Huge growth area, Large shop, very simple operation, no food at all, great opportunity, Freehold also available, POA Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

CATERING “ CORPORATE & PRIVATE “

MILK BAR TKG $20,000 PW WEST SUBS

Tkg $5,000 pw, Eastern Subs, established 20 yrs, rent $207, lease 15 yrs, commercial setup, includes van, opportunity to incorporate café within, high profits $120,000 Call RAY FARAH 0425 861 467

CARWASH ‘AUTOMATED’ BUSINESS & FREEHOLD

PIZZA/PASTA-REST/TAKEAWAY “RESERVOIR ICON“

CAFÉ / RESTAURANT “ BRIGHTON “

CAFÉ “ WILLIAMSTOWN “ $370,000

Taking $9,000 - $10,000 pw, Open 2 nights only, 3 am License for 100 patrons, Fantastic Main Road Location, Excellent Restaurant & Bar Precinct, Excellent setup, Great for functions & Parties, Cheap Rent only $750 pw, Low Overheads & Huge Profits, Resident DJ’s & Live Music, Must sell, Submit offers Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

Automated carwash, Taking $9,500 pw, brilliant location, massive growth area, 6 bays plus vacuums, dogwash, Full recycling, Bore water, Desal system, 16 Security Camera’s, fully computerized, No vendor involvement, Best setup in Melbourne’s West, Fully managed, excellent opportunity, Call now...

Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

CHICKEN BAR “URGENT SALE“$118,000

Restaurant recently closed down, fully setup, licensed 200+, excellent location, rent $565 lease 14 years, separate function room & c/yard, offers over $200k considered Call EVAN PAPADOPOULOS 0404 499 277

BAR 2 NIGHTS - 3 AM LICENSE “ MOONEE PONDS “

Freestanding building, onsite parking, main rd, excellent exposure, convert to café Bakery/restaurant/Asian food/fast food, large kitchen, commercial equipment, potential to seat 150+ (STCA) cannot be faulted, vendor looking for quick sale, no financials, Chattel sale OFFERS OVER $200,000 CONSIDERED Call MINO STRONGHILIS 0414 886 364

CAFE/REST. ‘MOONEE PONDS’

Taking $20,000 pw, Absolute Icon in the area, huge space, massive seating area inside & out for 135 patrons, commercial kitchen, 1am liquor license, must inspect, POA Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

9485 4488

Taking $20,000 pw, Onsite parking, Corner location, massive growth area, Modern setup, Excellent equipment, 3 bedroom dwelling, huge profits, suits H & W team, POA Call FRED SAMOUN 0417 319 873

181-187 Plenty Road, Preston Victoria 3072

Tkg $7,000, business park/residential area, rent $500, lease 20 yrs, only 1 year old, excellent equipment, definite improver, ideal for couple, must inspect $145,000 ONO Call RAY FARAH 0425 861 467

THAI RESTAURANT “FERNTREE GULLY “

Tkg $10,000pw, busy Burwood Hwy location, 7 nights, 12 yr lease, free standing building, 28 onsite parking, fully managed, can change food use, urgent sale $110,000 Call MATTHEW CHEUNG 0411 236 280

WHAT’S NEW FRANCHISE “ $168,000 “

T/O $400,000pa, Major North Subs Centre, well presented store, simple operation, selling giftware, novelties etc, training & assistance provided, ideal business for couple Call MATTHEW CHEUNG 0411 236 280

Phone 9485 4488

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012 - Page 45

Real Estate News

Where the Great Ocean Road meets the ‘Hamptons’ 'Paradise Gardens and Cottages' is set amidst three acres of beautiful gardens. Offering two story book cottages set over a picturesque lake and a luxurious three bedroom home, with a bed and breakfast attached, this award winning prop erty operates as a successful accommodation business. www.paradisegardens.net.au All buildings have been superbly constructed; include quality fittings throughout and inclusive of stylish furniture and linen with the accommodation.

The main home is complete with a grand lounge, large dining room, generous country style kitchen, atrium and a staircase that leads to a generous master bedroom with ensuite and adjoining study. The views from the double spa bath are magical.

Within the home in a separate wing, lies the Bed and Breakfast accommodation. With a separate external entrance for privacy, this established in-house unit features a king sized bed, a dining setting, and large ensuite with a double corner spa and separate shower. A further queen bedroom is attached to accommodate extra guests.

The two gorgeous cottages provide a choice of either two or three accommodation units. The double storey main unit, is self contained, consisting of an open plan living/dining and kitchen area and upstairs king sized bed bedroom, high cathedral ceilings and ensuite with a double spa, large separate shower and decking that extends over the water with an outdoor setting and bar-b- cue.

The adjoining single storey Plum Tree Cottage has a separate entry and consists of high cathedral ceilings, a king sized bedroom, ensuite with spa and shower, kitchenette and decking extending over the water.

These two units are designed to work either as one cottage or two separate units to accommodate four people.

The second cottage consists of an open plan living/dining/kitchenette, again with high cathedral ceilings.

Overlooking the lake and island is the queen sized bedroom, with ensuite, spa, etc. Decking, again extending majestically over the lake.

Adjacent to the home is a large workshop, ample shedding and under cover parking for vehicles.

The extensive and established gardens are watered (if required) via an automated irrigation system topped up with water pumping rights from the Barham River.

Given a four and a half star rating through AAA. Inspection strictly by appointment.

When two individuals with exceptional talents get together to explore their own sea change/tree change, exciting results occur.

Jock, an architect and landscape architect, learned his craft in Melbourne, taking pleasure in hands-on projects over many years, including the rebuilding and running of the luxury 'The Grange' B&B in Williamstown.

Jo's passion is interior decoration and gardening, with many projects in leafy Bayside suburbs. Her natural flair for design has been expressed in both their home and the cottages with a distinct ‘Hamptons’ feel.

From the wall papers to the light fittings and deep couches, the whole house oozes relaxed luxury and enduring style.

As a keen board rider, Jock returned endlessly to the mystical Otways to chase that perfect wave and in 2000 stumbled upon one of the most unspoilt places on the coast. Jo, also keen for a rural change, was introduced to the magic of Paradise and instantly fell in love with it's beauty and tranquillity.

Ten years later Jo and Jock Williamson have a superb property, inspired by their love of all things natural and beautiful.

They were fortunate that they inherited a property with good bones; established exotic trees, terraced gardens and wonderful views all around. They have designed, built and decorated two self-contained cottages, used for accommodation, which are set over a picturesque ornamental lake.

Their own house, recently extended and renovated is large and comfortable and makes the most of the north sun and views to the surrounding forests. It is a rare thing - a home with all mod cons yet one which allows its owners close contact with a truly beautiful part of the world and where one can gain great respect and admiration for nature and the seasons.

Their property, only 10 minutes from Apollo Bay along a sealed scenic road, is nestled in one of the most beautiful valleys in the Otways and is unique in that it offers the lush surrounds of rainforest and farmland yet is an easy drive to the ocean - the best of both worlds.

Living in the peaceful surrounds of Paradise Gardens, the decision to move for Jo and Jock was never an easy one. "We are looking forward to new building and garden design challenges but leaving one of the most beautiful places in Victoria (and arguably Australia) will be very difficult".

■ Two picturesque cottages and stunning three bedroom home ■ luxurious main dwelling ■ established cottage accommodation with furniture inclusive ■ wood fires, reverse cycle air conditioning units ■ workshop, ample shedding, woodshed ■ three acres of award winning landscaped gardens ■ five water tanks ■ petrol generator, ride on mower, log splitter and mulching machine

Further details: ■ Machinery shed 4.8 x 6.8m ■ Underneath section garden shed 2.2 x1.5m ■ Car port 7 x 9m ■ Main shed 13.5 x 6.5m ■ With secure fully lined and carpeted mezzanine floor 3.2 x 3.8m ■ Woodshed 3 x 6.5m ■ 2 tanks up the hill behind the house on leased land 45,000 litres ■ 2 tanks at back of shed 20,000 litres ■ 1 small tank that pumps from larger tanks 1,000 litres ■ 1 megalitre per annum unmetered can be pumped from the river.

Pump reconditioned will pump 20,000 litres in a 10 hour cycle.

■ Automatic feed to garden from tanks.

■ Petrol generator with electric start (go with the sale) ■ Ride on mower (go with the sale) ■ Log splitter

Page 46 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Real Estate News

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