Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013 - Page 91
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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer
Radio: Smooth 91.5 top favourites ................. Page 92 Veritas: Audience with Helen Mirren .................... Page 93 The Spoiler: Neighbours and Home And Away ........... Page 93 Jim and Aaron: Top 10 Lists, movies, DVDs .................. Page 94 Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre shows, auditions ............. Page 95 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD
KING KONG: ‘DISAPPOINTING FAILURE’ ‘Phantom’ staged at Dandenong
● Richard Thomas and Kate Amos. Photo: Chris Parker ■ Andrew Lloyd Webber's famous Phantom Of The Opera has finally reached the community theatre world, and such is its popularity that in 2013 there are two productions being staged by highly respected companies. CLOC's fine show has been and gone, but Windmill Theatre Company's season opens on Friday (June 21) and runs until July 14 at Dandenong's Drum Theatre. Phantom is the story of a beautiful soprano, Christine, who becomes the obsession of a mysterious, disfigured musical genius. Playing Christine is another beautiful soprano from Brighton, 23-year-old Kate Amos, who is studying her honours year in a Bachelor of Music at Melbourne University, and who has already performed professionally with opera companies around Melbourne. For Kate, playing Christine is the fulfillment of a lifetime hope. "It has always been a secret dream of mine to play Christine - my first memory of Phantom was when I discovered at home a double CD of the original cast recording when I was about 12,” Kate says. “ I think Mum had bought it when she went to see the original production in the West End, and while I hadn't seen the show, there was something I just loved about it and I listened to that CD over and over for years!" Kate is a young singer going places, as she has won numerous awards and later in the year heads to Italy on a scholarship to study at the Fondazione Spontini Pergolesi, an award she won at the Italian Opera Acclaim Awards. Playing her love interest Raoul is North Balwyn Chris Buchanan, a personal trainer by day, and whose wife Julia is generously lending him to Kate on stage for the season of the show. Chris comes from a professional music theatre background, having toured with the musical Mamma Mia! Every musical needs a bad guy, even if in this case it's a sad character with whom we empathise - the title role of Phantom is playing by Box Hill North's Richard Thomas, whose practical day job as a partner in a city accounting firm is worlds away from his dark and brooding stage persona. Playing the other principal female role, the diva Carlotta, is Wyndam's Cassandra Beckitt, well known for her work as principal soprano with companies including Williamstown Musical Theatre, PLOS and Gilbert and Sullivan Society. Directed by Chris Hughes with musical direction by Julia Buchanan and choreography by Robert Mulholland, Windmill's Phantom is already generating an exciting buzz in the music theatre scene across Melbourne. Tickets: visit www.drumtheatre.com.au or call 9771 6666. - Julie Houghton
Laughing Behind The Piano ● King Kong has opened at the Regent Theatre ■ Saturday night’s grand opening of King Kong has been met with disappointing reviews by Melbourne’s theatre critics. Respected Melbourne critic Simon Parris, at his Man In Chair website, said: “As a groundbreaking theatrical spectacular, King Kong is a lavish, jaw-dropping success. As a ‘music theatre event’, however, it is a disappointing failure, setting the art form back 70 years. Excerpts of Parris’s stinging review include: ■ “As strong as each of these design elements are, the overall look and style are completely at odds with the 1930s setting, as is the music. ■ “There is a feeling of ‘too many cooks’ in terms of decisions related to where to spend the budget and creative energy. ■ “Direction, by Daniel Kramer, contains sufficient broad strokes to help audiences follow the simple plot, but is sorely lacking in character development and detail. ■ “Music theatre aficionados would be better advised to stick with Legally Blonde or Flowerchildren,” Simon Parris said. AussieTheatre.com.au forum critic ‘Sam’ said: “The book is pretty awful. I can’t believe this is the same man that gave us the glorious Light In The Piazza. The dialogue is banal and the plotting is very schematic. “The choreography is truly abysmal. It looks like a bad 90s video clip – even when the characters are supposed to be 1930s chorines. The women’s choreography in particular is vulgar and slutty. It’s out of place and just ugly. “Like Spiderman, I don’t think Kong is really a show for music theatre fans. It’s not a well-crafted musical by any means. Its strengths are its moments of spectacle. “If they cut out most of the songs (which are a waste of time) and developed the storytelling and narrative more, I think it could work as a ‘theatre spectacular’ – but currently there’s about 20 minutes of excitement mired in an ugly mess. Kim Choe of 3News.co.nz remarks: “The expectation of Kong's arrival makes the opening somewhat sedentary in contrast. “The dialogue is clunky in parts and initial character development is lacking, especially in film director Carl Denham, who is but a shadow of his previous delusional, megalomaniacal incarnations. Age reviewer Cameron Woodhead offered 3½-stars, and had some praise. He called the music “a (discerning) dog’s breakfast”. “Two main problems stand out: the disjointed transitions from stage action to song, and the fact that some numbers sound pretty without doing hard yards dramatically. "Some spectacular aspects of the production, when they fail, fail in a similar vein. A somewhat flimsy book is the show's weakest link, and there are scenes where you feel your senses boggled as a substitute for, rather than as a technique for enhancing, dramatic narrative. “The use of tits and arse, in particular, can feel utterly gratuitous. In a story that condemns the crass exploitation of an animal for entertainment, the portrayal of women is troubling.” Coral Drouyn, of Stage Whispers, listed positives about the King Kong production, adding: “In all probability the show needs to be rebranded as a spectacle, and the word musical eliminated from the marketing. “This score is a mishmash of styles (and truly abysmal melodies in some cases) tied together with Marius de Vries’s overblown underscore. “"There’s clunky dialogue in which one line of exposition is meant to replace real development. There are awful jokes which elicit embarrassed chuckles. There are anomalies that are never explained Kevin Trask, on his That’s Entertainment program on 96.5 Inner FM on Sunday, described the show as a “amzaing technical achievement ... musically, it didn’t grab me.”
■ Being an accompanist to a high profile performer is no laughing matter. Just ask well known Melbourne accompanist Peter Hurley, who promises to reveal all in his Melbourne Cabaret Festival show, Laughing Behind The Piano. When he is not doing his serious day job of lecturing in aural studies to the serious Bachelor of Music students at Melbourne University's Conservatorium of Music, Peter has a whole other life! Once he shuts the university lecture room door, he becomes Peter Hurley, accompanist and partner in crime to many famous names…but to drop them here would be to spoil the secrets he will share in Laughing Behind The Piano. While he may be best known as one of Melbourne's great piano men, Peter is no slouch as a singer, so he combines those skills plus a lifetime of stories in his cabaret show. So what is the unsuspecting audience in for? Peter takes up the tale … "Songs old and new, and stories that spill the beans on some of those whose strings might have been 'adjusted' by that not-so-quiet manual manipulator - the pianist for hire!' Peter explains gleefully. "Politics, sex, religious, special singers - they all get it in the neck!" Could this be subtitled the accompanist's revenge? Sounds like you will have to go along to Laughing Behind The Piano and join Peter Hurley and his musical 'mates' Noel Coward, Tom Lehrer, Blossom Dearie and the rest of the gang to find out. Laughing Behind the Piano is at the Globe Café, Chapel St, Prahran, on Friday, July 5 at 9pm and Saturday, July 6 at 7pm. www.globecafe.com.au - Julie Houghton
● Peter Hurley
Page 92 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Observer Showbiz Smooth 91.5 favourites
● Louis Armstrong: What A Wonderful World ■ Richard Wilkins announced the Louis Armstrong hit, What A Wonderful World, as topping Smooth 91.5 500 alltime favourites, this week. The week-long presentation saw the 500 top songs, voted by Smooth listeners in Melbourne and Sydney, go to air. The most popular 30 songs were: 1. What A Wonderful World. Louis Armstrong. 2. Sweet Caroline. Neil Diamond. 3. Over The Rainbow. Eva Cassidy. 4, Winner Takes It All. Abba. 5. Imagine. John Lennon. 6. How Deep Is Your Love. Bee Gees. 7. Haven’t Met You Yet. Michael Bublé. 8. Unchained Melody. Righteous Brothers. 9. If Tomorrow Never Comes. Ronan Keating. 10. Wonder of You. Elvis Presley. 11. Some Like You. Adele. 12. At Last. Etta James. 13. Angels. Robbie Williams. 14. Hold On. Wilson Phillips. 15. Total Eclipse Of The Heart. Bonnie Tyler. 16. If. Bread. 17. I Will Always Love You. Whitney Houston. 18. I Won’t Let You Go. James Morrison. 19. We’ve Only Just Begun. Carpenters. 20. Woman In Love. Barbra Streisand. 21. Daydream Believer. Monkees. 22. More Than A Woman. Bee Gees. 23. Unforgettable. Natalie Cole/Nat King Cole. 24. I’ll Be There. Mariah Carey/Trey Lorenz. 25. Careless Whisper. George Michael. 26. Knowing Me. Knowing You. 27. Need You Now. Lady Antebellum. 28. When A Man Loves A Woman. Percy Sledge. 29. If You Leave Me Now. Chicago. 30. Be My Baby. Ronettes.
r Observbei z Show
Wednesday, June 19 ■ Moe (Moses) Howard, of The Three Stooges, was born in New York in 1897. He died aged 77 in 1975. British actor and comedian Charlie Drake was born in 1925. He died aged 81 in 2006. Broadcaster Anne Deveson was born in Malaysia in 1903 (83).
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Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria
SURVIVORS GROUP THRIVES
■ More than 40 mates gathered for the ‘Survivors’ twiceyearly luncheon at South Melbourne on Saturday. The group was formed by Bert Newton, Ron Tudor and John Proper more than 40 years ago at The Latin restaurant. Over the years its members have included Doug Elliot, Doug McKenzie, Joff Ellen, Norm Spencer, Frank Rich and Bob Horsfall. This week’s meeting was chaired by Ron Tudor, 89, and convened by Bruce McKay, who started his radio career at 3AW in 1956. The meeting remembered media personalities Tony Charlton, Helen Cronin and Dot Howson who had recently passed away.
Visitor from Sweden ■ Attending the Survivors for the first time was Geoff Harrison, who was one of the first on-air personalities on Fox FM in Melbourne in 1980. His career has taken him to Sweden and Scandinavia, where he is now a correspon-
VETERANS GATHER FOR TWICE-YEARLY LUNCHEON
Volunteer position
■ Brooklyn-based community radio station Stereo 974 has a volunteer position for an Arabic speaking announcer for a new upcoming Arabic program. Previous radio experience is preferred, however applicants do not require previous radio experience as full training and voice coaching will be provided. Contact Kim at stereo974.com ● Radio men Denis Scanlan and Des Ford were at the Survivors group luncehon held at the Rising Sun Hotel, South Melbourne, at the weekend. Denis conducts a morning program on Geelong’s Pulse 94.7. Des lives in Tropical North Queensland, and works on Cairns FM 89.1. Des still continues to keep in touch with his friends at Melbourne’s Golden Days Radio 95.7. dent for the BBC and SBS Australia. Geoff is also busy as a travel writer, and works for the On Air World Radio/TV group.
“I am deeply in love with a man. And he is not my fella,” said Swan. “I've known him for nearly 10 years and it was love at first listen. He is my best man-friend and I first met him when I was working at a radio station on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.”
Loves Jamie ■ Mix 101.1’s Chrissie Swan has written an article in the News Limited press about her friendship with breakfast show nchor Jamie Row. Swan wrote about when she first met Jamie whilst they each worked at Hot 91 on the Sunshine Coast.
Fourth survey results soon ■ The next radio ratings survey results are due to be released on Tuesday, July 2. This will be the fourth set of audience figures for the year. There are eight surveys scheduled for 2013.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Ray Lawrence, President of Radio Eastern 98.1, has been receiving attention for skin cancer spots ... but is out and about , sounding good. Radio man Phil Barnes, who worked at 3SR/ SUNFM Shepparton, 3TR Traralgon, and Hardy Audio in Ballarat, died on Thursday (June 13). ACE Radio breakfast presenter Jon Vertigan achieved a personal best by running 50 kilometres at the weekend. Commercial Radio Australia has blamed a ‘key ing error’ for an overblown sales growth figure in last month’s statistics. Victorian Premier Denis Napthine apeared in a chummy spot on 3AW’s breakfast program to celebrate 100 days in the chair. Too chummy?
● Geoff Harrison
Melbourne
Observer
On This Day Thursday, June 20
Friday, June 21
Saturday, June 22
Sunday, June 23
Monday, June 24
Tuesday, June 25
■ Actor Errol Flynn was born in Hobart in 1909. He died aged 50 in 1959. Footballer Dick Reynolds was born in 1915. He died aged 87 in 2002. Former Premier Joan Kirner was born as Joan Hood in 1938 (75). Actress Nicole Kidman is 46 today (1967).
■ Boxer Lionel Rose was born in Warragul in 1948. He died aged 62 two years ago John Paul Young was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1950 (63). Racing driver Craig Lowndes was born in Victoria in 1974 (39). Prince William Arthur Philip Louis Windsor is 31 today.
■ Film preducer Mike Todd was born in 1907. He died aged 51 in 1958 when his private plane Lucky Liz, named after wife Elizabeth Taylor, crashed. Actress Meryl Streep was born in 1949 (64). TV sports commentator Bruce McAvaney was born in South Aust. in 1953 (60).
■ Edward III, King in 1936, was born in 1894. He died aged 77 in 1972. He abdicated so that he could marry Wallis Simpson. Singer Diana Trask was born in 1940 (73). Actor Bryan Brown was born in Sydney in 1947 (66). Actress Geraldine Turner is 63 (1949).
■ Recording industry pioneer Bill Armstrong is 84. Drummer Mick Fleetwood is 69 (1942). He was born in Cornwall, England. Athlete Raelene Boyle was born in Coburg in 1951 (62). Michael Tuck, veteran of 426 AFL games, is 60 (1953).
■ Actress June Lockhart, who played the mother in the Lassie TV series, is 88 (1925). Singer-songwriter Carly Simon was born in New York City in 1945 (68). English comedian Rick Gervais was born in Berkshire, England in 1961 (52).
Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates. Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013 - Page 93
Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour Veritas The Spoiler SKIP ROPE FOR HEART
ShowBiz!
For Those Who Have Lost The Plot
Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven ■ Monday, June 24. Despite her guilt, Kate and Mason get back together; Josh is forced to choose between Amber and his training; Lucas and Vanessa set a date but do they want the same wedding? ■ Tuesday, June 25. Toadie and Sonya clash over Walter; Josh can't face breaking up with Amber; Bailey chooses Callum over Rani. ■ Wednesday, June 26. Untrustworthy Walter works his way into Toadie's house and Sheila's affections; Working to pay for a wedding costs Lucas his health; Ajay and Karl disagree about broadening the Band's appeal. ■ Thursday, June 27. Kate's attempt to mend bridges between Paul and the Turners backfires; Lucas and Vanessa face the possibility that his cancer has returned; Karl is threatened when Georgia is a big hit. ■ Friday, June 28. Amber realises that Josh is keeping their relationship a secret; for the sake of their relationship, Kate and Mason want Paul and Matt to end their rift; Karl feels betrayed by Ajay.
Home and Away ■ Monday, June 24. Brax wants to see Ricky. Casey is hurt that Tamara has latched onto Kyle. Maddy organises a protest to save Bianca's job. Spencer promises Roo he'll reveal his relationship to Maddy. Then, Kyle and Tamara kiss. ■ Tuesday, June 25. Brax wants Ricky to stay. Kyle struggles to control his feelings for Tamara. Zac confronts Natalie over her feelings for Brax. Maddy stages the protest to save Bianca's job. Sasha and Spencer can't tell Maddy the truth about their relationship. ■ Wednesday, June 26. Natalie and Zac's domestic problems are affecting Leah. Things don't go smoothly when Jett introduces VJ and Nina. Dex wants to propose to April, against his family's advice. Marilyn is forced to question whether she and John are becoming too close. ■ Thursday, June 27. Casey is finding it hard to deal with Tamara's condition. Heath struggles filling Brax's shoes. Kyle tries to get Tamara to stay in the Bay. Roo wants find out what's bothering Marilyn.
■ Three Legally Blonde The Musical stars yesterday (Tues.) visited pupils at Chatham Primary School, near Surrey Hills, to assist with their Skip Rope For Heart fundraising. Erika Beynatz, Ash Bee and Shaye Hopkins showed some of their signature moves to support teh cause promoted by the Heart Foundation Victoria.
Challenge to Court
■ Derryn Hinch (Channel 7) has lost patience, and is challenging the Victorian Supreme Court to “charge me or have the decency to advise that the matter has been dropped”. Hinch says that 10 weeks Supreme Court Judge Geoffrey Nettle “ordered the prothonotary to charge me with contempt of court”.
Audience with Helen Mirren
● Erika Heynatz in her role as Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde The Musical. “I have waited every day since for the knock on the door from a Police officer carrying the summons ordering me to a court ap- ■ The Rob Guest Enpearance to face charges of dowment Gala Concert contempt of court,” Hinch is moving to Sydney after being held for the past four said on Monday. "A court appearance years in Melbourne. The event will be held that my lawyers fear, and I know, will result in a jail at the Sydney Lyric Thesentence of at least three atre on November 25. months - maybe more, afThe concert has been ter the last five months held previously at Her under house arrest - if I am Majesty’s Theatre, Melconvicted.” boure. Rob Guest died That’s life, Derryn. in 2008.
Gala night heads north
Review: Herding Cats
PHOTO: FACEBOOK/ CRAIG MURCHIE
● Craig Bennett with Maggie Kirkpatrick ■ Showbiz reporter Criag Bennett (Today Tonight) has been in the UK, and with Maggie Kirkpatrick (best known as ‘The Freak’ from Prisoner), and Craig Murchie, have attended An Audience With Helen Mirren at the Gielgud Theatre.
Derryn: plane crazy ■ Who almost missed their plane at the weekend? Derryn Hinch sent this message out on Twitter early Sunday morning: “Thanks Qantas staff for patience/good humour when dummy is travelling to Cairns on Virgin. Long dash from Q to V at 6.40 for 7 flight.” Hinch might have got there quicker if he wasn’t sending out messages on social media.
Golden Days interview
Media Flashes
★
"Fairfax has confirmed 75 full-time jobs in advertising production for its regional media titles will be axed as it outsources some work and centralises prepress for most regional publications in four hubs," reports The Australian. 3AW host Dee Dee Dunleavy was busy on social media on Monday, suggesting Aussie women should boycott Brit Nigella Lawson's books until she “makes a stand on domestic violence". Harrison Craig was named of The Voice on the Nine Network on Monday night. He beat Luke Kennedy for the title. Observer columnist Ted Ryan will be guest speaker before the Old Ivanhoe Grammarians v top side Mazenod amateur football match at Chelsworth Park, Ivanhoe, this Saturday (June 22). Swap Cards Galor is conducting a charity swap card sale day on Saturday, June 29 at St Mary’s Church Hall, Cnr Hood Cres and Glen Eira Rd, Caulfield, from 10am3pm. Howard Panter, co-founder of the Ambassador Theatre Group, which is costaging Legally Blonde The Musical in Melbourne, has received a Knighthood in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List (UK) “for services to the theatre”.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
● Ngaire Dawn Fair and Paul Ashcroft in Herding Cats at Red Stitch Actors Theatre. Photo: Jodie Hutchinson ■ Lucinda Coxon's Herding Cats his client Saddo (Dion Mills) is not (presented by Red Stitch) centres on delved into in its entirety. There are too many questions left unJustine, a self-obsessed alcoholic who is falling for her boss, and Michael, an answered and no real backstory to eiagoraphobic phone sex worker who de- ther character to give you any insight as velops feeling towards one of his cli- to where their motivation comes from. Even director Susan Chaundry ents while pretending to be his daughseems to fail in her interpretation and ter. The housemates not only share a flat, delivery of the play, with moments but a deep dependence on each other and where the voices weren't heard and supposedly a history, although this is not times where actors were completely out exposed or explained to the audience at of view of the audience. Despite all this, all three actors demall. onstrate immense talent and work well The play has potential to be thought- together on stage. provoking and powerful but unfortunately There is a sense of connection bemisses the mark in its interpretation. tween both Justine and Michael, and Justine (Ngaire Dawn Fair) Michael and Saddo, that is indeed made me irritated after a mere five min- deep and real. utes. Her fragility and vulnerability are Season: Until August 7 only exposed toward the end of the play, Times: 8pm Wednesday, Thursday but by this stage I felt no empathy at all Friday; 4pm and 8pm Saturday; 6.30pm toward the character or her plight due Sunday to her obnoxious and, to be honest, borVenue: Red Stitch Actors Theatre ing attitude to the world and those around Rear 2 Chapel St, St Kilda her. Tickets: $20 - $39 It is also unfortunate that the storyline Bookings: http://redstitch.net - Review by Stephen Leeden between Michael (Paul Ashcroft) and
● Alex Hehr with Ron Blaskett ■ Golden Days Radio General Manager Alex Hehr recorded an interview with ventriloquist Ron Blaskett on Monday this week. The chat will be broadcast in Alex’s Saturday morning breakfast program on 95.7 FM at 9am. Ron Blaskett was one of the early stars of GTV9, appearing on and producing a number of programs. He is probably best known for appearances with Gerry Gee on The Tarax Show.
Whatever happened ...? ■ Whatever happened to Panda Lisner - best known as ‘barrel girl’ on Graham, Kennedy’s In Melbourne Tonight, and ‘Princess Panda’ on The Happy Show with Happy Hammond? The last we heard Panda was living in North Balwyn, and was penning a book. Was the book ever published?
● Vic Gordon, Panda and Happy Hammond
Page 94 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013
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Movies, DVDs With Jim Sherlock and Aaron Rourke
What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs
● Denzel Washington in Flight FILM: FLIGHT: Genre: Drama. Cast: Denzel Washington, Kelly Reilly, Nadine Velazquez, John Goodman. Year: 2012. Rating: MA15+. Running Time: 138 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***½ Verdict: Denzel Washington is superb as an airline pilot who saves a flight from total disaster, and becomes a media hero as a result, but an investigation into the malfunctions of the flight reveals something troubling. Inspired by an actual event, great performances dominate all round as the search for the truth is slowly revealed, and the subsequent results revealed. Uninhibited and graphic, though marginally flawed, even overlong and unevenly repetitious, it still packs a wallop and is a flight well worth catching. FILM: AMOUR: Genre: Drama. Cast: Jean-Louis Trintignant, Emmanuelle Riva, Isabelle Huppert. Year: 2012. Rating: M. Running Time: 127 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: **** Verdict: Jean-Louis Trintignant, Emmanuelle Riva, Isabella Huppert. Deservedly Oscar nominated film for Best Picture, Best Foreign Film and Best Actress, this is the poignant and moving story of a retired couple in their eighties in Paris, two music teachers whose life and love to each other has been one of total commitment, but before long illness strikes and what follows is a series of events that must be left you to discover yourself. This is sometimes an uneasy film to watch, and even though old age can be difficult to confront, its emotional honesty and compassion are forces here that make it and undeniably uncompromising, unflinching and totally unmissable experience. FILM: WESTWORLD: Genre: Science Fiction/Thriller. Cast: Yul Brynner, Richard Benjamin, James Brolin. Year: 1973. Rating: PG. Running Time: 88 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: *** Verdict: An entertaining enough Saturday matinee sci-fi romp of a robot malfunction that creates havoc and terror for unsuspecting vacationers at a futuristic adult-themed amusement park. If it sounds familiar, it should. This is the genesis of what director and writer Michael Crichton would revisit and reinvent for his world in the form of Jurassic Park 20 years later by replacing the robot idea with hungry dinosaurs. It is interesting to note that the robot that Yul Brynner portrays is an homage of his character Chris from the 1960 western classic The Magnificent Seven, right down to the same costume. Good fun! FILM: THE GAZEBO: Genre: Comedy/Crime. Cast: Glenn Ford, Debbie Reynolds, Carl Reiner. Year: 1959. Rating: G. Running Time: 100 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: ***½ Verdict: Delightful and hilariously engaging dark comedy of a TV writer who end up all sorts unexpected strife and ends up having to bury a blackmailer under the new gazebo in his suburban backyard, but due to a series of further mishaps, the nervous writer can't let the body rest there. Brimming with plot twists and one comic gem after another, especially as everything goes wrong so he queries Alfred Hitchcock on the phone for some what do I do with a dead body advice. Screen veterans Glenn Ford and Debbie Reynolds are in top form, as are John McGiver and comic great Carl Reiner adding to the macabre merriment. This botched perfect crime mystery is a joy, a corpus delicti of laughs from beginning to end! - James Sherlock
SAHARA: 4½ STARS
● Humphrey Bogart discusses the enemy with his dedicated comrades in the superb action/drama Sahara. ■ (PG) (1943). 97 minutes. Avail- of cinematic satisfaction that is hard to beat. able on DVD. RATING - ****½. Both exciting and involving, this WWII stunner easily maintains its classic status, and still proves to be one of Humphrey Bogart's best films. Set just after the fall of Tobruk, we are introduced to Sgt Joe Gunn (PG) (1936). 82 minutes. Avail(Bogart) and his small tank crew, who ■ on DVD. have barely managed to escape the able From one Bogart classic to another, clutches of the Nazis, and are attempt- this confidently handled film adaptaing to make it back across British lines tion of the Broadway play by Roband safety. ert Sherwood is firstly an engrossing On the way they encounter six sol- hostage drama, but secondly can be diers (five Brits, one French) who are looked upon in a number of ways, medialso falling back after a heavy defeat, tating on what was happening in the and after a brief confrontation are al- world at the time. lowed to tag along. Set at one of those Last Chance roadWith these unexpected additions, ra- side restaurants in the middle of the tions become dangerously low, and the Arizona desert, the story centres on combined units are in desperate need Gabrielle Maple (Bette Davis), a young and innocent dreamer whose faof water. As the group begin to cross the ther (Porter Hall) runs the restaurant, Libyan desert, the exhausted crew a business that doesn't see much paalso pick up Sudanese Sgt Major tronage. Gabrielle is continuously pestered Tambul (Rex Ingram) and his Italian P.O.W Giuseppe (J Carrol by grid-iron obsessed Boze (Dick Foran), but is entranced by British Naish). After reaching a run-down structure drifter Alan Squier (Leslie that may have water, Gunn and his Howard), a failed writer who feels men find themselves pinned down by a no sense of place or self-worth. Not long after the arrival of rich large number of German soldiers, and couple Mr and Mrs Chisholm as such decide to take them on in a va- (Paul Harvey and a particularly imriety of cleverly conceived ways. pressive Genevieve Tobin), the enWhat allows Sahara to stand the test tire group are taken hostage by gangof time is its refreshing lack of propa- ster Duke Mantee (Bogart) and his ganda and jingoistic fervour, instead gang, who are on the run after comjust giving the viewer a number of or- mitting a violent robbery. dinary men dealing with extraordinary As the night goes on, views are excircumstances (the scene where Gunn pressed and personalities are brought first encounters Tambul and Giu- into the light, at times changing who seppe perfectly sums up the film's sen- has the upper hand. timent and themes). Despite its one-location setting, The Each character is given a solid foun- Petrified Forest never feels artificial, dation, making us look at the unit as a thanks to fast-paced, smartly composed whole, rather than just the lead actors direction by Archie Mayo, and outwho are most likely going to survive. standing performances from a perfectly This creates a greater sense of loss chosen cast, with Howard and when soldiers are killed in battle, in- Bogart recreating their Broadway stead of coming across as mere ten- roles. Davis shines as Gabrielle, empins to be knocked over at the approbracing this wide-eyed girl's optimispriate time. The entire cast is excellent, with a tic outlook on a world that has not only superb Bogart surrounded by a fine en- gone through a very dark period, but semble that includes Ingram, Naish, may be about to see another dark cloud horizon. Bruce Bennett, Richard Aherne, on the The film's windy, dusty atmosphere and a young Lloyd Bridges. a potent air of uncertainty, repThe compact yet intelligent screen- creates resenting world still unsure about play is wonderfully directed by Zoltan what path ita will take, accompanied by Korda (The Four Feathers - 1939 / a charismatic villain trying to hold on Cry, The Beloved Country - 1951), who to outdated ideals. effortlessly moves the film between The Petrified Forest is must-see action and drama. viewing, showing many of today's Vivid cinematography by Rudolph would-be film-makers what happens Mate (Foreign Correspondent) is also when all the important elements (writa major asset. ing, acting, direction, and clear, strong From its well-staged opening se- vision) come together so beautifully. A quence to its memorable finale, Sahara genuine classic that needs to be seen, is the type of top-shelf entertainment enjoyed, and admired. RATING - ****½. that can be watched again and again, - Aaron Rourke each time delivering a definite sense
The Petrified Forest
Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. FAST AND FURIOUS 6. 2. THE GREAT GATSBY. 3. THE HANGOVER PART III. 4. STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS. 5. IRON MAN 3. 6. THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES. 7. YEH JAWAANI HAI DEEWANI. 8. NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: THIS HOUSE. 9. THE RELUCTANT FUNDAMENTALIST. 10. HAPPINESS NEVER COMES ALONE. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: JUNE 13: A LADY IN PARIS, AFTER EARTH, THE INTERNSHIP, YOU AIN'T SEEN NOTHIN' YET. JUNE 20: DESPICABLE ME 2, ERRORS OF THE HUMAN BODY, EVERYBODY HAS A PLAN, MONSTERS UNIVERSITY, SATELLITE BOY, WORLD WAR Z. THE DVD TOP RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. LINCOLN [Drama/Historical/ Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones]. 2. SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK [Drama/Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Jackie Weaver]. 3. ANNA KARENINA [Drama/Keira Knightley, Jude Law]. 4. DJANGO UNCHAINED [Western/ Drama/Christoph Waltz, Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio]. 5. HANSEL AND GRETEL: WITCH HUNTERS [Action/Horror/Jeremy Renner]. 6. LIFE OF PI [Drama/Adventure/ Irfan Khan, Suraj Sharma]. 7. THE SWEENEY [Action/Ray Winstone, Damian Lewis, Hayley Atwell]. 8. THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey [Fantasy/Adventure/Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen]. 9. JACK REACHER [Action/Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike]. 10. THE IMPOSSIBLE [Drama/ Naomi Watts, Ewan Mc Gregor, Tom Holland]. Also: SKYFALL, MOVIE 43, STOLEN, YOU WILL MEET A TALL DARK STRANGER, GANGSTER SQUAD, QUARTET, ARGO, LES MISERABLES, HITCHCOCK, GUILT TRIP. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: AMOUR [Drama/Jean-Louis Trintignant, Emmanuelle Riva]. FLIGHT [Drama/Denzel Washington, Bruce Greenwood, Kelly Reilly]. SAFE HAVEN [Drama/Julianne Hough, Josh Duhamel, Dir: Lasse Hallstrm]. MAFIA [Crime/Drama/Ving Rhames, Pam Grier, Robert Patrick]. HIGH ROAD [Comedy/Ed Helms, Kathryn Burns, Michael Coleman]. KNIFE FIGHT [Drama/Rob Lowe, Julie Bowen]. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: THE PUBLIC ENEMY [1931/Crime/ Drama/James Cagney, Jean Harlow]. WESTWORLD [1973/Sci-Fi/Yul Brynner, Richard Benjamin, James Brolin]. BEDROOM MAZURKA - UNCUT [R18+/1970/Annie Birgit Garde]. MAGIC [Family/Drama/Robert Davi, Christopher Lloyd]. SPARKLE [1976/Drama/Music/ Irene Cara, Lonette McKee, Philip Michael Thomas]. ● Turn To Page 99
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013 - Page 95
Observer Showbiz FOUR LETTER WORD THEATRE
Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold
‘HAIRSPRAY’ AT PARKDALE STAR ATTRACTION
● Eleanor Bally (Ava), Sean Paisley Collins (the Man), James Gand-Hunt (Otto) and Eva Torkkola (Hannah) in Chiasmus, presented from June 25-30 at the Collingwood Underground Car park. Photo: Robert Alexander Smith ■ Four Letter Word Theatre is announcing its first original development, Chiasmus – a play about people, fear, insecurity and primal instinct, where our world is built on lies and no lines go uncrossed. At what point does it all become too much? Angus Cameron makes his literary debut with this demanding and highly intellectual piece of contemporary theatre. Following on from two successful productions of Equus and Titus Andonicus presented already this year, Four Letter Word Theatre presents their latest offering in trademark confrontational style. Four Letter Theatre is dedicated to quality, thought-provoking and affecting theatre … by whatever means necessary. It was formed to present challenging, contemporary theatre that isn’t afraid to push boundaries to the limit. Building on the success of sell-out shows in 2012 and 2013, Chiasmus is Four Letter Word Theatre’s third offering from a season of six unexpected works. Chiasmus (a workshopped season) is being presented from June 25-30 at 7.30pm (6 pm Sunday) at the Collingwood Underground Car Park, 44 Harmsworth St, Collingwood. Bookings: fourletterwordtheatre@gmail.com www.fourletterwordtheatre.com/Four_Letter_Word_Theatre/ Chiasmus.html
LORD OF THE STRINGS ■ Enjoy a vibrant, musical journey with the gifted Matthew Fagan in Lord Of The Strings on June 23 at Christ Church, South Yarra, and June 29 at the Gemco Players Community Theatre in Emerald. This guitar and ukulele concert stars international 10-string guitar virtuoso and Maton endorsed ukulele player Matthew, and guest Latin singer Crystal Laine, singing vibrant and joyous Latin Bossa Nova Jazz songs. Matthew is renowned for his virtuosity and versatility on guitar, surprising audiences with his original arrangements and modern interpretation with a magical repertoire, spanning many eras, cultures and genres. He will present an exciting spin on genres that cross from Spanish Classical and Flamenco, Celtic, Folk, Latin American and World Music, New Age/ambient music to Bluegrass finger style and electric rock. A particular highlight of Matthew's performance is his virtuosic hit rendition of J.S Bach's Toccata on Celtic Steel String Guitar, which featured as the climax on the final episode on the Australian ABC TV1 television production A Moody Christmas Performances: ■ Lord of the Strings on Sunday, June 23 at 3.00pm, doors open at 2.30pm at Christ Church, South Yarra, Corner Punt and Toorak Roads, South Yarra and ■ Saturday, June 29 at 8.00pm, doors open at 7.30pm at the Gemco Players Community Theatre. 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Admission: $20/$15, $40 Family (2 adults and 2 children), $10 child under 16, Children under 3 are free. Bookings: 0438 881 985 or by email mjb2fagan@gmail.com Online trybooking http://www.trybooking.com/CXCN plus Booking Fee www.matthew-fagan.com
Melbourne
Observer
Melb. French Theatre ■ Melbourne French Theatre is holding auditions for Funny Money by Ray Cooney, on June 22 from 2pm sharp and June 24 from 7pm sharp at 203-205 Canning St, Carlton. Directed by Noel Anderson and produced by Michael Bula, Melbourne French Theatre will present the third in the trilogy of Cooney plays, completely transformed into a French production and set in the Paris suburb of Saint-Maur. The production will be presented entirely in French, with English subtitles adapted by Michel Blanc and Gerard Jugnot. Audition enquiries: 9349 2250. Audition bookings: www. melbournefrenchtheatre.org.au
AUDITIONS ● Amy Partridge (Amber Von Tussle) and Susie McCann (Velma Von Tussle) in Hairspray, being presented in Parkdale from July 12-20. Photo: Jason Stringer ■ Aspect Theatre presents Hairspray from July 12-20 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Rd, Parkdale. This colourful, happy show is directed by Lyn Laister, with musical direction by Emma McGeorge and Kim Annette is choreographer. Ashleigh Kreveld as Tracey Turnblad is joined by a large cast of talented performers. Tickets: Gala Night July 12 $35/$30/$25. Other performances: $30/$25/$20. Bookings: www.aspecttheatre.com.au or email bookings@ aspecttheatre.com Enquiries: 9580 8415 after 6pm.
SHOWS ■ The Mount Players: The Threepenny Opera (by Bertolt Brecht), Until June 23 at 56 Smith Street, Macedon. Director: Leo Vandervalk: Musical Director: Peter Weerts. Tickets: $28/$25. Bookings: www.themountplayers.com.au ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: Albert Nobbs (by Gordon Steel) Until June 29 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Road, Parkdale. Director: Martin Gibbs. Tickets: $24/$22. Bookings: 9587 5141. www.mordialloctheatre.com.au ■ MLOC Productions: Big The Musical Until June 22 at the Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Road, Elwood. Director: Trish Carr; Musical Director: Geoff Earle: Choreographer: Keir Jasper. Tickets: $32/$30/$28. Bookings: www.mloc.org.au ■ Mountain District Musical Society: Fiddler on the Roof Until June 22 at the Karralyka Centre, Mines Road, Ringwood. Director: Paul Watson; Musical Director: Ryan Jacobs; Choreographer: Kaela Brushett. Tickets: $38/$35/Children U15 $25. Bookings: 0402 221 681 or email: tickets@mdms.org.au ■ Windmill Theatre Company: The Phantom of the Opera June 21 - July 4 at the Drum Theatre, Dandenong. Director: Chris Hughes: Musical Director: Julia Buchanan; Choreographer: Robert Mulholland. Tickets: $39.60/$35.20. Bookings: www.phantomoftheopera.net.au ■ Malvern Theatre Company: What the Butler Saw (by Joe Orton) June 21 - July 6 at 29 Burke Road, Malvern. Director: Michael Coe. Tickets: $20 no concession. Bookings: 1300 131 552. ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: The Beauty Queen of Leenane (by Martin McDonagh) June 27 - July 13 at 2 Albert Street, Williamstown. Director: Ellis Ebell. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9885 9678 www.wlt.org.au ■ Sunshine Community Theatre: Boston Marriage (by David Mamet), June 28 - July 6 at the Dempster Park Hall, 82 Phoenix Street, North Sunshine. Director: Lee Cook. Tickets: $15/$12. Bookings: 0407 802165 www.sunshinecommunitytheatre.com ■ Hartwell Players: Fractured Fairy Tales, A Trio of One Act Plays, July 6 at 2pm and 7pm at Hughesdale Community Centre, Cnr . Poath and Kangaroo Roads, Hughesdale. Tickets: $12. Bookings: 9513 9581 or bookings@hartwellplayers.org.au ■ Aspect Theatre: Hairspray July 12 - 20 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Road, Parkdale. Director: Lyn Laister; Musical Director: Emma McGeorge; Choreographer: KimAnnette. Bookings: www.aspecttheatre.com After hours: 9580 8415. ■ Altona City Theatre: Spring Awakening: A New Musical July 5 - 20 at the Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona. Bookings: www.altonacitytheatre.com.au or 0425 705 550. ■ The Fabulous Nobodys: That Awkward Moment (by Hannah Bird) July 9 - 12 at Vermont Secondary College, 27-63 Morack Road, Vermont. Director: Tony Bird. Tickets: $20. Bookings: 0400 039215 or fabulousnobodys@gmail.com
■ Nova Music Theatre: Gypsy June 20 - 23. Please call 9727 0192 for further details and venue. ■ Wyndham Theatre Company: Deathtrap (by Ira Levin) June 22, 29 at 12.00 noon at the Crossroads Theatre, Corner Synot Street and Duncans Road. Werribee. Director: Ron Fenton .Audition bookings: 0403 338 836. ■ Players Theatre Company Inc: The Sound of Music June 23 - 24. Please call 0413 022 608 or playerstheare@hotmail.com for further details. ■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (by Gay Presson Allen), June 27 at 7.00pm, June 30 at 12 noon at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation Street, Geelong West. Director: Stacey Carmichael. Audition bookings: 0400 233 085. ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest June 30 and July 1 at 36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna. Director: Chris Baldock. Audition bookings: chris.baldock@gmail.com ■ MLOC Productions: The Producers Information Evening July 4 at 7.30pm at the Parkdale Church of Christ hall, 174 Como Pde., Parkdale. Auditions: July 9, 11, 13. Dance Audition July 14. Director: Jane Court; Musical Director: Ian Nesbit; Choreographer: Keir Jasper. Audition bookings: www.mloc.org.au or 9589 4912. ■ Williamstown Musical Theatre Company: Urinetown the Musical July 10 - 15 at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, Corner Melbourne Road and Electra Street, Williamstown. Director: Anna Marinelli; Musical Director: Malcolm Fawcett; Choreographer: Carla White. Audition bookings: 1300 881 545.
MATTHEW FAGAN
● Matthew Fagan, see story at left
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 96 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013 Melbourne
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 32 Across
2. Supervisory (position) 7. Pays brief visit (5,2) 11. Rule 17. Yacht pole 18. Untruth 19. Spanish cheer 20. Ellipse 21. Hangover symptom 22. Decreased 23. Woeful 26. Unfilled space 28. Citizen soldiers 29. Adolescent 31. Existence 34. World computer link 36. Archfiend 39. Female equines 41. Roused 43. Suspension of workers (3-3) 46. Morocco's capital 47. Writer, Emily ... 49. Frolicked 51. Pharaohs' tombs 52. Repaints (car) 53. Short-sighted 54. Lieu 55. Flip in air 56. Ill-treatment 61. Featured musicians 64. Nautical speed unit 65. Fellows 66. Extending 67. ... or nay 69. Possessor 71. US coins 74. Not apparent 76. Penny-pincher 78. Elderly horse 79. Phlegm condition 81. Anti-terrorist squad (1,1,1) 83. Wigwam 84. Aunt's husband 86. Scented purple flower 89. Desert illusions 90. Humility 93. Roll (dice) 94. Sailor's yes (3,3) 97. Made (wage) 100. From India or China 101. Saviour 103. Subway 106. Long letter 108. Short-circuited 109. Mistake (4-2) 110. Untied 111. Islamic governors 112. Renowned 113. Power group 115. Salon worker (4,7) 118. Minor roads (4,7) 121. Be without 124. Early harps 128. Hickory tree nut 129. Aimed 130. Cosmos scientists 134. Brings up (child) 135. Excessively fat 136. Overshadow 137. Fragrance 138. Existing
Across 139. Abandon 140. Alluring 143. Natural disaster, ... wave 144. Vote in 147. Film 150. Extinct bird 151. White flower (7,4) 155. Not justified 157. Chime 158. Smell 159. Concur 162. Snapshots 164. Harrowing trial 167. Doctor 168. Rid of lice 169. Comfy seat (4,5) 172. Journalists' credits (2-5) 173. Polite 174. Unassuming 177. Deprive of food 180. Islands 181. Flight from reality 183. Reconstructed 184. Notorious gangster (2,6) 186. Potato variety 187. In vain, to no ... 188. Fulfilled (demand) 191. Actress, ... Diaz 195. See next page (1,1,1) 197. Megastars 198. Earphones 200. Idiocy 202. Middle-distance runner 203. Weeding implement 205. Protrudes (6,3) 206. ... de Cologne 208. Pleasant 209. Fireproof material 212. Funeral guests 215. US Mormon state 217. Feeble 220. Capital of Iowa, Des ... 222. Hiding game 224. Close watch (5,3) 226. Fries lightly 228. Wife, the ... 229. Bake (meat) 230. Crazier 232. Check 235. La Scala city 236. Dallas is there 238. Well-meaning person (2-6) 241. Spot 242. Admonish 243. Gain through will 244. Singer, ... Horne 246. Require 252. Mental stress 253. Renounce throne 254. Eyelid swelling 255. Focal point 256. Rug 257. East European 258. Opposition 259. Shipping route (3,4) 260. School project
Down
Down
1. Right on target (4-2) 2. Dr Jekyll's alter ego (2,4) 3. Ark builder 4. Moves (towards) 5. Recognise 6. Peru beasts 7. Battery segment 8. Grass 9. Weary sound 10. Xmas 11. Responds 12. Contraptions 13. Crocodile relatives 14. Taverns 15. Small lump 16. Wine jug 24. Trophies 25. Addressed crowd 26. Shaking motion 27. Listing articles 28. Actors Gibson or Brooks 30. Lamb's mother 32. Lack of aptitude 33. Instructors 35. Lament 37. Defence force 38. Beastliest 39. Raider 40. Glimpse 42. Map guide 44. Chooses 45. Thrifty 47. Long-snouted monkey 48. Ice-free Norwegian port 50. Rounded roof 53. Ponder 57. Freedom from guilt 58. Bare 59. Rocket ship crew 60. Talks keenly 62. Mountaineer's tool (3,3) 63. Oppress 65. Judi Dench stars in ... Henderson Presents 68. Aviator, ... Johnson 70. Vigilantly 72. Admission 73. Old photo colour 74. Open sore 75. Dessert, ... caramel 77. Kenya & Tanzania region (4,6) 80. Letter jumbles 82. Italian city 85. Come together 87. Daunted 88. Prince Edward, ... of Wessex 91. Biblical garden 92. Auction 95. Containing nothing 96. Upwardly mobile young people 98. Ripped apart, torn ... 99. Naked models 102. Group loyalty (6,2,5) 104. Nimble-fingered 105. Helps 107. Piercingly 113. Flowered 114. Requested from menu 116. US cotton state 117. Betrayal crime 119. Cavalryman 120. Codswallop 122. Accomplish 123. US motorbike stuntman, Evel ... 125. Extract (metal) 126. In the Arctic Circle 127. Specifically (2,3) 128. Sacred song 130. Astern
131. Weight unit 132. Record label (1,1,1) 133. Droop 141. Pseudonyms 142. US Rhode Island resort 145. Lengthy (4-6) 146. Droll plays 148. Totally preoccupies 149. Unable to read and write 152. Behaved 153. Louts 154. Finish 155. Great Bear constellation, ... Major 156. Jockey 160. Congers or morays 161. Native American tribespeople 163. Stitched garment edges 165. Cain & ... 166. Vending machine 167. Hitler book, ... Kampf 170. Vile act 171. Largest Turkish city 175. Leaves out 176. Praise highly 178. Panic 179. Current (permit) 182. Prison occupant 185. Progressed (4,2) 188. Names used wrongly 189. Most easily offended 190. Cigar dust 192. Almond biscuit 193. Most corroded 194. Flightless bird 195. Trite remark 196. Band 199. Induces 201. Made amends 204. Rowing aids 207. In present condition (2,2) 210. Companies 211. Samples (wine) 213. Coral bank 214. Safari 216. Large yacht 217. Scavenge 218. Tardiest 219. Your school, ... mater 221. Slip up 223. German or Greek 225. Eastern veils 227. In the past, long ... 228. Russian space station 231. Putrefy 233. Four score 234. Toughen (steel) 235. Liqueur, crème de ... 237. Afternoon nap 239. Most senior 240. Enfold 245. Urges on, ... up 247. Junior Scouts 248. Epic tale 249. Notion 250. Highest point 251. Windmill arm
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013 - Page 97
Solution on Page 90
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Page 98 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Victoria Pictorial
Melbourne Shops Historic Photo Collection
● Shop fronts, Flinders St, City
● Doyle’s greengrocer shop, Miller St, West Melbourne. Circa 1900
● Bank Street, Emerald Hill, (from J.B. Youl's drapery shop)
● Barber Shop, North Melbourne
● Bottle shop, Scott’s Hotel, Melbourne. 1956
● Rue de la Paix dress shop, Collins Street. 1965.
● Teresa Porta at entrance to fish shop in High Street, Armadale. Bottles on left are mussels, and cooked fish in left window. Right hand window
● Benjamin Bolton, Family Grocer, Port Melbourne.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013 - Page 99
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
MODIFIED TURNOVER QUESTION ■ The imposition of a product fee on wagering operators to bet on Victorian thoroughbred racing through the use of our race fields is a topic that has produced much debate over recent years. Racing Victoria's Chief Executive, Bernie Saundry, writing in Inside Racing, says “Turnover versus Gross revenue which model is best for racing and you're likely to get a different answer from varying sectors of the industry". It's not rocket science when it comes to determining the best fit. Numbers can be projected with a degree of confidence, but punter behaviour is not as easy to predict. The past 12 months have delivered us a rapidly evolving wagering landscape and one that has had a significant impact on performance and projections. After a positive finish to 2012, there has been an overall flattening of the wagering market throughout the opening months of 2013. The interstate TABs have gone through substantial structural changes over the past 12 months, particularly through the sale of Tote Tasmania, and the impacts of this remain on-going. The corporate bookmaker sector is also progressing through a significant period of consolidation. The past 12 months have welcomed new entrants into the market and seen changes in ownership with UK based entities acquiring managing stakes in Australian bookmakers. So what does this all mean? It means that the industry needs to take
Ted Ryan
● Macedonian Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
prudent approach to the future. While they remain committed to fostering long-term growth in the business, they need to have a crystal clear view of what lies ahead. The wagering landscape is not settled, and for this reason the Board retains an openmind to the best longterm approach to product fees. Racing Victoria previously applied a model that saw wagering operators charged a product fee of 10 per cent of gross revenue, rising to 15 per cent in the Spring carnival months of October and November. This was changed to a turnover-based model on August 16, 2012, which coincided with the start of the new TAB wagering licence. At this time RV outlined their policy that would be reviewed before June 30, this year. This is to determine the conditions for approval to wager on their product beyond this time.
That extensive review, which includes submissions from wagering operators and shareholders, has been completed and it found that the switch to a turnover-based model has had no detrimental effect on wagering operators. Average gross margins have increased across all wagering categories for the eight months to the end of March 2013, with corporate bookmaker's turnover on Victorian thoroughbred meetings up 14 per cent. In the same period, the turnover-based model has returned $ 44 million in product fees to Racing Victoria from interstate wagering operators- and increase of 25 per cent on the previous year (to date). While this is a really positive move for the industry, it should be noted that it was not entirely unexpected and an uplift in returns was budgeted for the 20122013 financial year. It was on this basis, thanks largely to the new 50/50 TAB joint venture, but taking into
● Black And Bent Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
account all projected product fees, that Racing Victoria were able to implement $18.7 million in prizemoney increases from August 1, 2012. It was decided recently upon completion of the review, that wagering operator approvals to use Victorian race fields will be granted for a period of 12 amonths from July 1, 2013.
Jump classics ■ After a successful, Wa r r n a m b o o l Jumps carnival, all those connected with the" the ups sand overs", are now looking forward to the two big races to be run at Sandown (Sporting
● Bel Esprit Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 Bet Park), next South Australia, month. with great jumping on The Grand Na- show for the racegoers. tional Hurdle will be Leading trainer, run on Sunday, July 14, Peter Moody, proand the Grand Na- duced Macedonian tional Steeple on Sun- over the sticks, and afday, July 28. ter winning by 20 Warrnambool, as lengths at his first start usual, was spectacular over the hurdles, made set in a picturesque set- it two on end recently, ting with big crowds in and look the goods. attendance who enWith jumpers like joyed the thrills of the Bash Boy, MaceJumps. donian, Man of Unfortunately due Class, Brungle Cry, to the inclement Black and Bent, weather, the Austra- Kiribilli Gold, and lian Hurdle and Half Moon Rising, Steeple which was to ready to strut their be run at Sandown stuff, I feel we are in (Sporting Bet Park) for a great season of on Saturday, June 1, iumping. was abandoned due to Leading trainer, the state of the track Robert Smerdon, after heavy rain. could be laughing all This combined the way to the bank meeting has been with a team such transferred to Wednes- Black and Bent, day August 28 Kiribilli Gold, and at Sandown. Jumps Brungle Cry going racing has continued in around.
● Kirribilli Gold Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 94
Top 10 Lists NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: THE WOMEN OF SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. DEXTER: The Complete Seventh Season. McCLOUD: The Complete Sixth Season. McCLOUD: The Complete Seventh Season + The Return of Sam McCloud. HALO 4: Forward Unto Dawn. CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: World Away. FALLING SKIES: The Complete Second Season. TRANSFORMERS PRIME: Season One. WARREN MILLER'S: Like There's No Tomorrow. BERGERAC: The Complete Seventh Series. EXPERIENCE MONTREUX: Quincy Jones & Herbie Hancock. STATE OF ORIGIN: NRL/The Ultimate Collection. SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS: Sweet and Sour Squidward. TOP BLU-RAY RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. LINCOLN [Drama/Historical/Daniel DayLewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones]. 2. SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK [Drama/Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Jackie Weaver]. 3. ANNA KARENINA [Drama/Keira Knightley, Jude Law]. 4. DJANGO UNCHAINED [Western/Drama/ Christoph Waltz, Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio]. 5. HANSEL AND GRETEL: WITCH HUNTERS 3D + Blu-Ray [Action/Horror/Jeremy Renner]. 6. JURASSIC PARK 3D [2013/Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Richard Attenborough, Jeff Goldblum]. 7. LIFE OF PI - 3D + Blu-Ray [Drama/Adventure/Irrfan Khan, Suraj Sharma]. 8. THE SWEENEY [Action/Ray Winstone, Damian Lewis, Hayley Atwell]. 9. JACK REACHER [Action/Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike]. 10. THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey 3D + Blu-Ray [Fantasy/Adventure/Martin Freeman]. Also: The Impossible, Skyfall, You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger, Stolen, Movie 43, Hitchcock, Gangster Squad, Quartet, Argo, Les Miserables. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: AMOUR [Drama/Jean-Louis Trintignant, Emmanuelle Riva]. FLIGHT [Drama/Denzel Washington, Bruce Greenwood, Kelly Reilly]. SAFE HAVEN [Drama/Julianne Hough, Josh Duhamel, Dir: Lasse Hallstrm]. WESTWORLD [1973/Sci-Fi/Yul Brynner, Richard Benjamin, James Brolin]. BEDROOM MAZURKA - UNCUT [R18+/1970/ Annie Birgit Garde]. KNIFE FIGHT [Drama/Rob Lowe, Julie Bowen]. SPARKLE [1976/Drama/Music/Irene Cara, Lonette McKee, Philip Michael Thomas]. DEXTER: The Complete Seventh Season. HALO 4: Forward Unto Dawn. CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: World Away - Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray. FALLING SKIES: The Complete Second Season. - James Sherlock
Racing: a big ask ■ News that the Moonee Valley Racing Club is trying to entice some of the world's best gallopers for their Cox Plate, is great news, especially, if they can at least get say five of the 20 invited. Over the years I feel the Cox Plate has lost of its charm, and it wouldn't hurt to inject a bit of International flavor. The brilliant Hong Kong galloper, Military Attack, could be one of those coming as connections are keen to try and win races such as the Cox Plate around the world. Dunaden, who won the 2011 Melbourne Cup by an eyelash, has been invited, along with Camelot who won this year's Irish and Epsom Derby. It would be a coup to get him, along with Alkazeem, who recently won the Group One Tattersalls Cup. Another is the Goldolphin star, Farhh, a Group One winner. Also gallopers have been invited from all over the globe, Japan, America and South Africa among the notables approached. Let's hope the Club can get at least three or four of the star internationals. - Ted Ryan
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Page 100 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs
TERANG: THRILL OF A LIFETIME
■ Graeme Lang's 5-Y-0 Live Or Die/Estelle Bromac was successful in the Pennant Products Tullamarine Pace for C1 class over 2190 metres at Maryborough. Driven by Gavin Lang, Livia Degerolstein taking a mares concession, led throughout from the pole in defeating George Street Lad off a three wide trail last lap and Dancing Legacy (five back the markers) in a rate of 2-03.5.
■ Youthful concessional reinsman Reece Moore received the thrill of a lifetime at the Terang trotting meeting on Wednesday June 12, doing what a lot before him have not achieved - driving a winner at his first race drive in a registered race. Using a claim, Reece was trusted with the drive aboard smart Kiwi bred 4Y-0 Live or Die/Super Telf gelding Magical Telf trained by ‘bos;" Dean Braun in the Dick and Anne Box Pace for C3 & C4 class over 2180 metres. Restrained at the start from gate six to settle four back in the running line with Ourcrowninn leading from gate two, Reece bided his time in a slowly run affair until easing Magical Telf three wide in the back straight on the final occasion. Surging up to the leaders approaching the home turn, Magical Telf's class told on straightening as he coasted to the wire 6.5 metres in advance of his semi-stablemate Keeper Of The Fire which followed him home from last, with Ourcrowninn weakening to finish third a further 3.4 metres away. The mile rate 2-04.2 (last half 57.2 - quarter 27.8). Formerly from Queensland, Reece knew nothing about harness racing when he applied for a job with Dean Braun in Lara almost two years ago and has gone along quietly ever since learning the trade, while also doing a short stint with Maree and John Caldow. Following the race. Reece was full of gratitude for both Braun and the Caldows for what he has been taught.
Ninth success
First run
Severe blow at Shepp. ■ Bagshot trainer/driver Warren Cochrane dealt quaddie punters a severe blow at Shepparton, when 5-Y-0 Washington Vc/Regal Banner gelding Stealing Life greeted the judge in the third leg - the Neatline Homes Pace for C1 class over 2190 metres, paying Supertab odds of $33.50. Crossing the pole marker Ariah Prince inside him shortly after the start, Stealing Life was restrained to allow the well supported Forbidden Forest to take over, giving him the run of the race. Easing outside the leader on straightening, Stealing Life nabbed Forbidden Forest right on the wire to score by a half head in a rate of 2-00.2, with Dusty Smiles (three wide last lap) third.
Happy and victorious ■ At Maryborough on Thursday, Kyabram trainer Graham Lyon was victorious with Bacardi Lindy/ All Finesse filly Claudys Princess in the 1st Heat of the Empire Stallions Vicbred Super Series for 2-Y-0 Trotting Fillies over 2190 metres, much to the delight of veteran harness racing devotee Gus Underwood who bred her. Driven by Gavin Lang, Claudys Princess (gate four) ran home stylishly from mid-field to score from Four Lillies and Edge Hill in a rate of 2-05.
1500th win for Greg ■ Axedale's Mick Carbone produced an ex-Kiwi by the name of Master Pip to score a first up Australian victory in the Maryborough Highland Society Pacers Handicap for C2 or better class over 2190 metres. Having his first outing since March when a winner at Motukarrara (South Island), Master Pip a 4Y-0 gelded son of Mach Three and Vermillion, Master Pip led most of the way, just lasting from Bubble Art along the sprint lane after trailing, with Whata Avenue third after facing the breeze. The mile rate 2-04.5. In winning, reinsman Greg Sugars chalked up his 1500th victory.
Good run at M’borough
■ Quality Tennotrump/Box Brownie gelding Brunelleschi chalked up his ninth victory, by taking the 2nd Heat of the Empire Stallions Vicbred Super Series for 4-Y-0 Trotters over 2190 metres at Maryborough. Trained and driven by Amy Tubbs for mother Kate, Brunelleschi from the extreme draw possied mid-field in the running line with the speedy Mister Gunsen (gate four) leading. Sent forward three wide in the final circuit, Brunelleschi led on turning to score by 1.9 metres from Katmandonny which trailed the leader being held up at a vital stage and Mister Gunsen in an allMelton area trifecta. The mile rate 2-04.3.
Handy combination
■ Heywood trainer Kevin Brough combined with Terang's Matt Craven to land the Goodtime Lodge 2-Y-0 Pace over 1680 metres at Terang with Artistic Fella/Gold Liner gelding Paua Fella in a rate of 2-00.7. Crossing Vader (gate two) shortly after the start from gate six, Paua Fella coming off a nice second to The Fat Man at Horsham on April 22, led virtually throughout in accounting for Vader which was no match over the concluding stages, finishing eight metres in arrears, with the favourite Watch This Spot third after missing away and circling the field to race parked at the bell.
■ Even though it was only a low grade $1500 non winners event - an interesting winner at the Bendigo harness fixture on Saturday June 8 was 9-Y-0 Davids Pass/Its Whatz Left stallion Nonno Medoro in the Alderbaran Park Pace over 1650 metres. Part-owned and trained by former Sydneysider Peter Berrell in Wedderburn, Nonno Medoro was making his first race appearance in almost four years, having his previous outing on July 14, 2009 at a Nyah meeting. Driven by Inglewood based Peter Sanderson, Nonno Medoro at the juicy odds of $52.80, led throughout from the pole to defeat Miss Fidelety (three back the markers) and Waltalight (one/two) in a rate of 1-59.1.
Baker’s Delight
Harness Racing
This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Melbourne
Observer
len-baker@ bigpond.com
with Len Baker
All aboard ■ The Metropolitan and Country Harness Racing Association advises that once again it is taking a coach tour to the famous All Trotting Redwood Day to be held at Maryborough on Sunday July 14. The coach is to leave the Moonee Valley Tabaret car park at 8.30am and Tabcorp Park Melton at 9am. Cost including lunch, afternoon tea, admission and a race book is $70pp to book give me a call on 0401 679 745) no later than Sunday June 30.
New status ■ Chintin trainer/driver Steve Cleave scored a super victory with 4-Y-0 D M Dilinger/Natural Winner gelding Black Coyote in the Victorian Equine Group Pace for C0 class over 1690 metres at Shepparton on Tuesday June 11, breaking his maiden status at start number 14. Bred and raced by Bruce Donaldson, Black Coyote was restrained to the rear of the field from gate six, spending most of the race there. Moving forward out wide in the final circuit, Black Coyote despite being at least six wide on the final bend, ran home at 100 miles an hour to register a 2.6 metre runaway victory in advance of a death-seating Wet Paint and Benoah along the sprint lane off the back of the weakening leader Stylishgate. The mile rate 1-58.6.
Good win ■ At Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday, bonny 7-Y-0 Village Jasper/ Broadway Gal mare Broadways Best returned to the winners stall after taking the Harness Breeders (Vic) Richmond Lass for M0 or better class mares over 1720 metres.
Now back with Shannon McLean at Gisborne South after spending some time with Emma Stewart in Ballarat, Broadways Best ($1.40) appeared to have yards on her rivals and she did, leading throughout from outside the front row with Nathan Jack in the sulky, defeating Lombo Cloud Nine and Repelem in a rate of 1-55. It was Broadways Best's 26th victory in 63 outings.
Cracked in ■ Melton hobby trainer David Manning finally cracked it for a victory with honest 4-Y-0 Our Sir Vancelot/Cinderella Lady mare Belated at start number 24 - taking out the Harbergers Pace for C0 class over 2100 metres at the Donald HRC fixture held at Charlton on Monday June 10. Driven by Melton based Zac Phillips, Belated led throught from gate two, accounting for Fictional Hero and isntshesomething in a mile rate of 2-04.4. Belated will return to Charlton on June 20 to compete in the $5,000 Final.
Times Pace ■ Rockbank trainer Joe Vassallo's tough 4-Y-0 Union Guy/Special Code gelding Damascus Road chalked up his fifth success when greeting the judge in the Buloke Times Pace for C1 class over 2100 metres at Charlton. With Brian Gath in the sulky, Damascus Road was driven the way he likes by working forward to sit in the open shadowing the pacemaker Be Cool before outstaying his rivals to score from Longtan Tigerman and Be Cool in a rate of 203.2. He too will return to defend his victory on June 20. - Len Baker
Wednesday - Yarra Valley/Bendigo, Thursday - Charlton/Geelong, Friday - Ouyen @ Mildura/Melton, Saturday - Shepparton, Sunday - Ararat, Monday - Warragul, Tuesday - Kilmore.
Horses To Follow ■ My Lishi, Maorisfavouritesun, Pirates Plunder, Dream Bonus, Cool Machrista, Kiwi Rage, Sals Mo, Punchinello, Forbidden Forest.
Brothers take honours ■ The Strathfieldsaye combination of brothers Glenn and Daryl Douglas took the honours at the Nyah harness meeting held at the Swan Hill Racing Centre on Thursday June 13, Glenn providing three winners on the nine event card and Daryl also chalking up a trio of victories including one for the stable. Art Major/Intrude filly Rogers Passion driven by Glenn started the ball rolling by taking the Laser Electrical 3-Y-0 Pace over 1609 metres in a rate of 1-58.4. Settling three back in the running line from the extreme draw, Rogers Passion was sent forward three wide solo in the final circuit to lead on straightening, before just lasting to score over Phantom Of The Opera along the sprint lane off the back of the pacemaker and third placegetter Bretaca by a half head in a tricky finish. Daryl took the reins aboard stablemate Gohardorgohome in the Mallee Sands 3-Y-0 Pace over 1609 metres and after sitting in the breeze for the majority of the trip, the intact son of Art Major and Clarenden Elite proved too strong at the finish for Fineandsunny (three wide last lap from mid-field) and My Lishi which ran on late when extricated from a tight pocket along the markers. The mile rate 1-57. The third of the stable treble came up in the Tooleybuc Sporting Club Pace for C2 class over 1609 metres, with Kiwi bred 4-Y-0 Falcon Seelster/Duomo Bromac gelding Conflict Of Interest taking a concession for Josh Duggan and leading throughout from the pole to defeat Hotasel which trailed and Seymourjasper (five back the markers) in a rate of 1-55.7. Daryl's other two winners were Centonic for Echuca trainer Faye McEwan in the Academy Graphics Pace for C6 or better class over 1609 metres and Jilliby Tarzan for Ouyen's Mal Retallick in the Kiel Tiling Pace for C0 class over 2240 metres. Ultra consistent 7-Y-0 Sports Town/Vixen Star gelding Centonic came from the tail of the field at the bell to be three wide trailing both Fire It Up and Lord Coburn in the last lap and despite being right off the track on the home turn, sprinted like a gazelle on straightening to easily account for Superstar Xpress and Shakatomic in a slick 1-55.6. Jilliby Tarzan a gelded 4-Y-0 son of Artsplace and Jilliby Spice starting from inside the second line, possied four back along the markers, with Sonofathena running along at the head of affairs. Coming away from the inside in the final circuit, Jilliby Tarzan dashed to the lead prior to the home turn, holding a margin to the wire to defeat the fast finishing Dream Bonus and Run Diamond Son in 2-02.1.
Strode home at the turn ■ Another Heywood winner on the night was inform 4-Y-0 Life Sign/Midnight Kazooie mare Life Is A Pleasure for Rebecca East in the ABS Australia Pace for C0 class over 2180 metres. Driven by Matt Craven, Life Is A Pleasure from gate two on the second line was sent forward from mid-field to park outside the pacemaker Soho Jolie at the bell. Striding clear approaching the home turn, Life Is A Pleasure despite racing roughly halfway up the running, scored by a neck over Art Of Gold (one/ one last lap) and Soho Jolie in a rate of 2-04.2.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013 - Page 101
Victorian Rural News
Page 102 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 19, 2013
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Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
MARK NEELD SLICED BY DEMONS unity organisations ■ Elite training facilities for local and regionally-based elite athletes ■ Local community meeting and flexible space ■ Education facilities, including lecture theatres, classrooms and laboratory space
Let’s help this community ● Mark Neeld ■ Melbourne coach Mark Neeld was sacked on Monday morning after the club conferred and confirmed with the AFL last Friday. It is is a tough business which demands results. Neeld simply made the “wrong choice”. Mark, good luck for your future.
Fans confused ■ The fans are confused and not too sure who plays who, but the players and coaches are loving the ‘byes’. Can’t blame them as AFL today is a 24/7 routine and even this schedule is still not enough time! How beneficial is this current formula for ‘the rest’ is still being analysed as so many factors must be considered such as body fatigue, injury recovery time, mental rest from the incessant volumes of verbal, written and on-field practice drill material fed to the players. It is nonstop, flat-out repetitive learning. As I write this there will be sports analysts studying what the past and present years byes do to benefit the AFL. We shall watch which teams improve their Ladder positions – some will say that’s the only answer. The Final 6 seems firmly fixed with: Haw, Geelong 40pts; Essendon 36; Swans/Freo 34pts and Coll on 32pts at 6th spot then follows Rich on 28(114.3%%) and Carl, 116.9%, WCE. 115%, Port Adel 114.5% all on 24pts, Adel 103.6%, GCSuns 92.5% both 20pts and North Melb 16pts 111.1% the only other chance to win a Final 8 spot. On Mark Neeld’s demise I was told he was the best credentialed of the three Geelong assistants but Brenton Sanderson, Crows and Brendan McCartney Bulldogs live on to fight another day. Neeld has the talent but again proves the axiom, “you must be in the right place at the right time.”
Freo welcomes $10 million ■ Fremantle Dockers this week welcomed Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s announcement of a Federal Government funding commitment of $10 million for the City of Cockburn’s proposed regional aquatic and recreation centre at Cockburn Central West. The Federal Government’s multi-million dollar contribution to the $114 million state-of-the-art facility at Cockburn Central West follows an announcement in December 2012 that the Fremantle Dockers had reached
Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel a heads of agreement with the City of Cockburn to develop the club’s new elite training and administration facility at the 26,000sqm green field site. Fremantle Dockers’ CEO Steve Rosich said the announcement of the Federal Government’s contribution to the project was a great endorsement of the world class facilities at Cockburn Central West that will place the club at the absolute forefront of integrated elite sporting and community facilities in Australia. The $10 million funding commitment was awarded after a two-stage application process to the Regional Development Australia Fund by the City of Cockburn in conjunction with the Fremantle Football Club. “We understand it to be one of the larger single grants RADF has allocated to this type of project nationally, and follows the significant and detailed work that has gone into the project to date,” Rosich said. “The joint project involving the City of Cockburn, the Fremantle Dockers and other potential stakeholders will, in time, garner a national reputation as a revolutionary model for integrated elite sporting and community facilities. “We are extremely grateful for the Federal Government’s significant contribution to the project - which is in addition to the $65 million committed by the City of Cockburn and $10 million by the Fremantle Dockers that will significantly enhance the recreational opportunities for residents in the Cockburn region and beyond. “In particular, we acknowledge Prime Minister Gillard, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Anthony Albanese, Regional Services, Local Communities and Territories Minister Catherine King, the RADF panel members and WA federal members Melissa Parke (Fremantle), Gary Gray (Brand) and Stephen Smith (Perth) for their assistance with the RADF application process.” Rosich also reaffirmed the club’s commitment, announced by Fremantle President Steve Harris last year, that while the club would be moving its core operations for administration and football to the Cockburn Central West site, it would not be leaving Fremantle. “We are in the early stages of working with a consultant on a plan for the redevelopment of the club’s existing facility at Fremantle Oval, including an ongoing presence by the Freo
Dockers at Fremantle Oval for sporting, community, retail and commercial purposes,” Rosich said. The site at Cockburn Central West, bounded by North Lake Road, Midgegooroo Avenue, Beeliar Drive and Poletti Road, is highly accessible being 500m from the Cockburn Central train station and in close proximity to the Kwinana Freeway. Recent developments in the area include substantial commercial and residential projects, including high density housing and a retail precinct, and the $38 million Cockburn Integrated Health and Community Facility. The proposed new facilities at the Cockburn Central West site include the provision for larger elite football and administration facilities for the club of more than 6000sqm plus green space, with the club also having exclusive or priority access at designated times to facilities including but not limited to: ■ AFL standard oval and access to a second oval ■ 50 metre, 10 lane outdoor competition swimming pool ■ 25 metre indoor swimming pool ■ Hydrotherapy pool and aquatic recovery pools ■ Regional multipurpose indoor sporting centre, including six highball courts ■ Sports store, including a Fremantle Dockers’ retail outlet ■ Supporter facilities, with the exact nature and size of these facilities to be determined in the next stage of design ■ Additional community facilities in the current scope of the project, which will serve a catchment of more than 207,000 people in Perth’s rapidly growing southern corridor, include: ■ Café ■ Playground and picnic areas ■ Health and wellness facilities, wellness and fitness studio, gymnasium, activity rooms, rehabilitation facilities and sports medicine facilities ■ Meeting and conference rooms ■ Administration offices for comm-
■ To my AFL Family: I am very concerned and have pledged to help the Utopia aboriginal community. There is much more to come of this challenge. I shall keep you informed. Seton Barbour, Health Promotion Officer of the Urapuntja Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, Alice Springs, writes: “I have been asked as Health Promotion Officer working for Urapuntja Health Service Aboriginal Corporation, to write a brief outline regarding our Indigenous men and the importance of AFL football played in our community. “Since working for the health service in this position for over 18 months it has been brought to my attention through attempting to organising football training and practice sessions that this game offers much more than I ever expected or imagined as a health professional. “Not only does this game bring the men, women and children together, it offers them enjoyment, exercise and more importantly it gives them a sense of self worth, respect, solidarity and union. “With no fields with lawn or designated goal posts, no football boots and very limited equipment these men and children rally together to train and play through all adversities with a smile and enjoyment I have not seen before. “Due to our remote geographical location and the lack of resources, job opportunities and the like our men and children have a lot of down time so to speak. “Football is an integral part of their well being and ongoing health needs and this is recognised not only by health professionals as having an opportunistic forum to screen and meet health needs, but by the Traditional Owners, Elders and all community and familial members having and sharing a sense of pride. “Through tragic circumstance we recently lost one of our up and coming stars who committed suicide, devastating the community and team. “Through the common interest of
ROUND 13 Friday, June 21 Hawthorn vs. West Coast Eagles (ES) (N) Saturday, June 22 Port Adelaide vs. Sydney Swans (AS) St Kilda vs. Melbourne (MCG) (T) Western Bulldogs vs. Richmond (ES) (N) Sunday, June 23 Fremantle vs. North Melbourne (PS) Brisbane Lions vs. Geelong Cats (G) (T) Byes: Adelaide Crows, Carlton, Collingwood, Essendon, Gold Coast Suns, GWS Giants football, the community rallied and united in a way of dealing with their grief and honoured this man by wearing their team guernsey with pride to his funeral. “Football offers so much more than health and fitness. With support or funding, this would change the lives of so many in the Utopia Homelands.”
Halfway point
■ At the halfway point of the season the premiership appears to be within the province of the three top, in-form teams, Hawthorn, Geelong and Sydney. The other challengers are Fremantle, Collingwood, Essendon, Carlton, Richmond, WCE and Adelaide. The shrewd punters believe to win the Flag your team must make ‘The Top Four’. I agree. There is a long way to go but in analysing the draw, the “hot today-cold tomorrow” form of many teams it is difficult to predict who will make the fourth spot. ‘ I’ll opt for Fremantle. The Top 8 add Collingwood, Carlton, WCE and Essendon. It will be an exciting finish to a controversial season.
Explained ...
■ The Marking Rule. This has been subjected to the most recent confusing interpretations and explanations by umpires boss Jeff Gieschen. The mark or free-kick must be paid if the player going for the mark is pushed or deliberately hit to prevent him marking by the hand(s), forearm(s), extended arm(s), elbows or any other part of the body to the side or back, including a side on bump, when the ball is NOT within 5metres of the contest. If the “spoiler” decides to fist the ball away from the marking contest he must be careful not to infringe with his momentum into the body of the player attempting to mark the ball.
● Local ground for Urapuntja Health Service Aboriginal Corporation
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