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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014 - Page 7
Court Roundsman
It’s All About You!
Melbourne
Veteran told not to re-apply Observer for pension compensation In This 80-Page Edition
Love, Loss And What I Wore
● Rachel Negus, Sandy Green, Jodie Sibley and Leann Cairnduff in Love, Loss, And What I Wore until March 22 in Clayton. Photo: Kevin Trask ■ Encore Theatre presents Love, Loss And clothing and accessories and the memories What I Wore until March 22 at 8pm and 2.15pm they trigger to tell funny and often poignant matinee on March 22 at the Clayton Commu- stories that all women can relate to. Love, Loss And What I Wore is perfect for nity Centre Theatre, Cooke St, Clayton. Directed by Helen Ellis, the show is a col- a girls’ night out, but men will also be touched lection of stories by sisters Nora Ephron and by the warmth, honesty and humour of these Delia Ephron, based on the best-selling book women’s stories. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 739 099 by Ilene Beckerman. - Cheryl Threadgold This enduring theatregoing experience uses (9am – 9pm).
■ Former conscripted national serviceman Kazimir Kowalski has been instructed not to make further applications against the Repatriation Commission. Kowalski, who served as a regimental and mechanical draftsman in the RAAF in 1972, has made three pension claims since 2007. Kowalski asked for compensation for reflux, depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, hypertension and ischaemic heart disease. Administrative Appeals Tribunal of Australia Deputy President Stephanie Forgie, sitting in Melbourne, heard that the Commission refused Kowalski’s claims, and that they were not defencerelated. Kowalski unsuccessfully asked that Ms Forgie disqualify herself from sitting on the case. Kowalski also made allegations of fraud, which Ms Forgie said were not backed by evidence. Ms Forgie said it was difficult to see how evidence from Flight Lieutenant Wilson, who prescribed a muscle relaxant to Kowalski, could assist. “Any memory he has of Mr Kowalski would be 40 years old.” No new aspect or evidence had been introduced. The claims have been heard in the past by the Tribunal, the Federal Court and the High Court.
Doomsday in Kensington laboration of new young talents, and lighting and set design by Ben Brockman is first class, as is sound design by Andy Harmsen. One criticism is for actors to ensure audibility when lowering voices, particularly in the opening. Every word of this well-written play deserves to be heard by patrons. Congratulations to Andy Harmsen, Alan
Review by Cheryl Threadgold ■ The premiere of an Australian play is always a special event, and last week Andy Harmsen’s Gothic thriller Doomsday Devices opened at the Revolt Artspace in Kensington, presented by the Sly Rat Theatre Company. Talented theatre practitioners Harmsen and director Alan Chambers met at University, and are now company cofounders. Their mission to ‘produce provocative, immediate and thrilling theatre’ succeeds from the moment patrons enter the dark, hazy Revolt Space, with green spooky stage lighting casting ominous shadows from irregular rows of horizontal wooden slats. The haunting tale is set in a scorching summer in Melbourne where streets are filled with riots and violence. Disturbed, middleaged Maurice (Jeremy Kewley) experiences ghostly events after digging up a trunk in his back-
Chambers and their team for creating a suspenseful, fascinating theatre experience. May there be many more! Season: Until March 22 at 8pm Venue: Revolt Artspace, 12 Elizabeth St, Kensington Tickets: $25 Full $20 Conc. Bookings: www. revoltproductions.com - Cheryl Threadgold
Mark Richardson: Chats with Greg Evans . Page 4 Melbourne Observer: Been and seen ....... Page 8 News: The Barrel’s viewpoint ............... Page 9 Di Rolle: Tina, a non-nonsense gal ........ Page 10 Melb. Confidential: Digger wins pension . Page 11 TV Memories: Black-and-white days ..... Page 12 Pictorial: Sofitel women’s day ............. Page 13 West Hollywood: Gavin Wood reports .... Page 15 Travel and Wine: David Ellis reports ...... Page 16 Kevin Trask: Robert Donat profile ........ Page 18 Readers Club: Competition winners ...... Page 20 Yvonne Lawrence and Jim Sherlock’s columns do not appear this week.
Observer Showbiz
Latest News Flashes Around Victoria
Radio station sues ■ Victorian Radio Network Pty Ltd, associated with 1116 SEN and MyMP, have asked for a Melbourne Magistrates’ Court hearing today (Wed.) to allege a civil claim against Pinocchio Pizza Restaurant Pty Ltd for “services rendered”.
Time for farewell ■ A business institution at Whittlesea is coming to a close. Rod and Marie Luscombe have worked at the local garage since 1959. They have owned it since 1980. New owners are Heath and Nickala Davies.
‘Glassed’ in brawl ■ Two people have been ‘glassed’ in a brawl near the One Tree Hill Hotel, reports the Bendigo Advertiser. Both men required hospital attention.
Ambo drugs stolen ■ Police are investigating another burglary at an Ambulance Victoria depot in Ballarat in which offenders forced entry into the building and stole prescription drugs from a locked safe.
Sword, gun taken ■ A sword and double barrel shot gun are part of cache of goods stolen from a Torquay home.
Weather Forecast ■ ■ ■ ■
Today (Wed.). Mostly cloudy. 9°-21°. Thurs. Partly cloudy. 9°-28°. Fri. Partly cloudy. 14°-26°. Sat. Partly cloudy. 13°-22°.
Mike McColl Jones ● Jeremy Kewley (Maurice) and Katy Reid (Mirabella) in Doomsday Devices at the Revolt Artspace, Kensington. Photo: Joseph Appleton Senior Sergeant Heinz and newcomer Katy Reid (Todd Levi) and proba- is well cast as Mirabella, tionary Constable beautifully depicting her Hoffman (Jennifer innocence and haunting Monk) visit Maurice, then terror. traumatised teenage Todd Levi ‘s strong neighbour Mirabella performance as Sergeant (Katy Reid) arrives and Heinz and Jennifer shares her ghostly experi- Monk’s down-to-earth ences. portrayal of Constable Meanwhile, they hear Hoffman, add a sense of of a shooting involving lo- normality amid the ghostly cal boy Tommy (Brad happenings, while tension Walsh). is heightened by Brad Veteran actor Jeremy Walsh’s appearance as Kewley delivers a superb Tommy. performance as Maurice, It is great to see a col-
Top 5 THE T OP 5 THINGS WE C AN TOP CAN DEFINITEL Y RULE OUT RE GARDING DEFINITELY REGARDING THE MIS SING MALA YSIAN FLIGHT MISSING MALAY FLIGHT.. 5. The flight didn't leave. It's still in the hangar. 4. It's gone to the same place socks go to when they're lost in the washing machine. 3. Its been "jet-napped" by an aliens. 2. Ketut shot it down with his blow-gun. 1. It's hiding behind Clive Palmer.
Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Museum re-opens
Mother And Son
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Ash The Melbourne Observer
■ The Railway Museum at Newport, operated by the Australian Railway Historical Society, will have a trial re-opening to the public on Saturday, March 29 from 12 Noon to 5pm. An official opening day is likely to be Sunday, April 13. The Museum had been closed due to insurance and safety issues. Stairs and rails had to be fitted to trains, no more ladders!
Artists for Orphans
Editor Ash Long is heard: ● 8.45am Wed., with Ron Burke, 3NRG-FM Sunbury ● 10am Wed., with Denis Scanlan, Pulse 94.7 Geelong ● 9.15am Thu., with Bob and Judy Phillips, 3RPP Peninsula ● Noeline Brown and Darren Gilshenan ■ Mother And Son will be staged at the Comedy Theatre, Melbourne, for a three-week season from July 18. Tickets go on sale on Monday (March 24). Noeline Brown and Darren Gilshenan will be joined by Shane Jacobson, Nicki Wendt and Robyn Wendt. The show will be directed by Roger Hodgman, and produced bySpencer McLaren, Dean Murphy and Joseph Thomsen.
Molly wins ‘Ozcar’
Out, About
■ Tristam Miller will start the 31stAnnual Eltham Fun Walk on Sunday, March 23. He will meet and greet from 7.30am until 9am when the Run starts at Eltham Leisure Centre. Book sales are being organised by Eltham Bookshop. ■ David Williamson's play Rupert opened at the Kennedy Centre in Washington DC last week. Williamson says the show went down pretty, well though The Washington Post was less indulgent.
Richie, Farnham perform
● Lionel Richie and John Farnham played to capacity crowds at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday and Monday nights. Toby Keith plays the venue tonight (Wed.), the Rolling Stones perform there on March 28, and April shows include John Mayer, Jason Derulo and Michael Buble. Kayne West performs in May, and Keith Urban will doi his show in June.
Alan Howe signs off
Jeff greets Miss Jane
● Mark Andrew ■ Elvis-impersonator Mark Andrew will perform at the Artists For Orphans funraiser to be held in Kyneton on Saturday, June 28. Bookings can be made with Roni Wildeboer, phone 0424 938 931.
Radio awards
● Alan Howe ■ After spending much of his career at The Herald & Weekly Times Ltd,Alan Howe has left his position as Executive Editor. Howe, also known for segments on 3AW and Melbourne Talk Radio, was a former Editor of the Sunday Herald Sun. He started jis journalism career at the Sunday Observer.
● Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum will be presented with an ‘Ozcar’ Award at the Princes of Wales Hotel, St Kilda, at a liuncheon to be held on Tuesday, April 1, by Alan Johnson, Managing Director of the Ramada Plaza and Suites, West Hollywood. MC is Sam Kekovich. The guest list includes Tony Healey, directors Michael Rymer and Rod Hardy, writer John Michael Howson. Ron Barassi, Mike Brady, Ronnie Charles.
Paula Abdul drops by
■ Crikey Editor Jason Whittaker is leaving the post to edit Private Media’s new title aimed at public servants, The Mandarin, reports Mumbrella. ■ Celtic Thunder, which is to tour Melbourne this year, is saddened to announce the loss of principal singer George Donaldson, who passed away on Wednesday (March 12) at his home in Glasgow, Scotland.
● Ross Stevenson ■ Entries opened on Monday (Mar. 17) for the 26th annual Australian Commercial Radio Awrds, which this year will return to Melbourne and be held for the first time at the Convention and Exhibition Centre on October 18. Previous break-fast show winners have been 3AW’s Ross Stevenson and John Burns.
Your pic ■ Want to be included in the Melbourne Observer? Send your social photos to editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au
Movers, Shakers
Short Shots
● Paula Abdul visited Weekend Break hosts Dee Dee Dunleavy and Peter ‘Grubby’ Stubbs at the 3AW outside broadcast staged at the Grand Prix on Sunday, won by Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg.
■ Derryn Hinch is this week making references on social media to “MY petition” for a national public register for convicted sex offenders. The ego is intact. ■ International violinist Andre Rieu, who has a large fan base in Mebourne, is celebrating that his Facebok page now has one million followers.
● Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett dropped by at the Magic 1278 studios at the weekend to say hello to presenter Jane Holmes. The wekkend marked the 18th Australian of the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Melbourne. Mr Kennett was keen to point out that he wore this outift - and shoes - to Melbourne’s first Grand Prix in 1996, and everything still fits.
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014 - Page 9
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Showbiz News
Radio man Ralph Bain dies, 75 Lauren in spotlight
Briefs Reunion
THE BARREL ‘Never pick a fight with a man who buys ink by the barrel and paper by the ton.’ Death of Larry Noye
■ Macleod College will celebrate its 60th birthday on Saturday, March 29, from 11am-5pm. There will be a memorabilia display at the May St campus.
$2 mil.
■ Building contractor Hansen Yuncken is paying $2 million to Glen Eira City Council to settle a lawsuit over the Sports and Aquatic Centre. The Council was seeking $3 million.
Epitaphs
■ A night on Interesting Cemetery Tales And Humourous Epitaphs will be offred by Dr Celestina Sagazio for the Whittlese Historical Society at the Council offices, South Morang, at 7.30pm on Wednesday, April 9. Supper will be served. Bookings: 9217 2138.
● Ralph Bain ■ Radio man Ralph Bain, best known as the voice identifying speakers on the ABC’s Federal Parliament broadcasts, has died from cancer at age 75. His early work included stints at 3UL Warragul and 3MA Mildura, followed by assignments at 5DN Adelaide and 2CC Canberra. “As kids, Ralph and I spent our early radio years together at 3UL Warragul in the mid-50s,” said industry veteran John Vertigan. “His humour was legend and got us both into hot water on a few occasions.” Canberra radio man Wayne Mac said: “Ralph was one of the few could say he literally 'did drive'. Due to his passion for motor cars he had a segment called Behind the Wheel. “He would take a new car for a spin and record himself giving commentary of the car's performance.” Tony Featherstone said: “I had the pleasure of working with Ralph at ABC Melbourne in the 70s, and was listening to his voice only the other day. Radio executive Mark Collier said: “I worked with him in his Parliamentary broadcast days at NewsRadio. A true gentleman, great company, passionate about his work, a great professional.”
● Amongst the many celebrities photographed at the Grand Prix over the weekend was Melbourne’s Lauren Newton. Photo: Twitter
Cr’s goat herd cleared ■ Former Banyule Mayor, Cr Wayne Phillips, has had to make improvements at his Wollert property after inspectors examined his herd of 6000 goats. The former State Liberal politician says he has been vindicated after a complaint was lodged about the health of the animals. Department of Environment and Primary Industries inspectors visited the farm, near Epping, late last month, to see if the animals had an adequate water supply. “They were satisfied with what I’m doing and they won’t be issuing a penalty notice, or show notice, or a notice to comply,” Cr Phillips told the Heidelberg Leader.
Best of Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
● Cr Wayne Phillips
“They will be sending me a note acknowledging this meeting will include some suggested improvements,” Cr Phillips told reporter alura Armitage. Cr Phillips said he believed the complaint was made after someone saw a goat stuck in mud around one of the six dams on the property. A report about alleged animal cruelty went to air on Ten Eyewitness News. Cr Phillips maintained that he kept his herd well fred and watered. Cr Phillips served in State Parliament under the Kennett Liberal Government, and is a member Mayor of the Diamond Valley and Banyule Councils.
Licence move ■ Jarratt Keith Swan has successfully appealed against a County Court conviction for culpable driving causing death. The Court of Appeal allowed his guilty plea to a charge of dangerous driving causing death, and a lower sentence has been imposed. A non-parole period of 16 months had been imposed. Swan was given permisison to appeal that sentence. County Court Judge Cotterell had found Swan geunuinely remorseful. A seven-year licence disqualification has been reduced to four years. Swan will be allowed to apply for a licence on June 20 next year. The appeal was heard by Supreme Court Judges Maxwell, Bongiorno and Coghlan.
● Larry Noye ■ Western suburbs journalist Larry Noye died on Tuesday last week, aged 85. He had been a patient at hospitals and St George's Benetas, Altona Meadows. Laurence 'Larry' Richard Noye, a resident of Seabrook, began his newspaper career as a copy boy at Truth in Melbourne after leaving Williamstown High School in 1944. A cadetship at the Footscray Mail followed, also stints on daily newspapers in Bendigo, Geelong, Launceston and Hobart. Canberra and a political life called. He was initially on the press gallery staff of Australian United Press in 1958 and, after working elsewhere, was back in the ACT for 14 years. This included casual work with AAP, the ABC and government departments as well as eight years with the Defence Department. He was a regular contributor to magazines and the press generally, including writing on Australian football and naval history. His writings included unsolicited contributions to the Melbourne Observer. Noye had an interest - almost obsession - in Australian politician King O'Malley, and self-published a book, O'Malley MHR. His passing is mourned by nephews and nieces: Lincoln Erm, Heather Pitt, Greg, Martin, Julian and Rohan. He was brother to Jack, Nancy and Peggy (all dec. ) and brother-in-law to Valerie. The funeral service was held in Altona Baptist Church, on Friday (Mar. 14), followed by burial at Williamstown Cemetery.
Barrel Briefs ■ Melbourne comic Marty Fields tells us: “I did a book signing today. Librarians get angry pretty quick.” ■ Eddie McGuire is boasting about being ‘Number 1’ in Melbourne breakfast FM radio ratings. His audience figures actually went down in this survey. ■ Michael Gordon has released an inside story of Hawthorn’s journey to its 11th premiership. The book, Playing To Win, has a foreword by Alastair Clarkson. ■ Dan Webb, veteran newsman, hoined with Bob Adams to publish a book, Mountain Man: The Story of Bill Marriott. The book was launched in Bright. ■ Greensborough Historical Society has launched a new book, As I Recall, with a collection of stories by local residents tracing the area’s change from country to suburbia. ■ Only four more Observers until Easter. ■ Only single seat tickets are available for the final performances of Grease on March 29-30.
Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014
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To
Is Matt the best comedian?
Di For
‘Is racism the new Black?’
● Richard Frankland ■ It seems like just last week that I was walking in to the Melbourne Town Hall to see an event at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival ... and here I am getting ready to head off again. The MICF each year presents gems of shows, and some hits and misses. Each one is individual and important to each performer. It is now one of the three biggest comedy festivals in the world, alongside Edinburgh and Montreal. This year promises to be no different. One show that really appeals to me came through to my desk with the headline: Comedy Stars ask Melbourne: Is Racism the new Black? They’re used to finding humour in awkward situations. Now comedy stars Charlie Pickering, Libbi Gorr and Meshel Laurie will shine their lights on the painful subject of racism in Australia. The trio will join acclaimed Melbourne playwright, scriptwriter, musician, actor and director Richard Frankland in a comedy event being run by the Lowitja Institute in Melbourne tomorrow (Thu.) Addressing the theme of racism in Australia, the comedy panel event aims to start a conversation by using humour to break through barriers. All four panelists are passionate about the subject and believe humour can help us talk about uncomfortable and painful subjects, allowing us to heal. Richard has won numerous awards and accolades for his work in the arts and indigenous affairs and was a finalist for the Human Rights Medal in the 2013 Australian Human Rights Commission Awards for his 30-year commitment to indigenous issues through film, theatre, music and community capacity building. The Lowitja Institute comedy event wraps up a week-long awareness program that includes a national health conference and the biennial Congress Lowitja 2014. Australia’s national institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research, the institute is the only research organisation in Australia solely focused on the health and wellbeing ofATSI peoples. Named in honour of former Australian of the Year, Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue , the institute brings together world-leading researchers, policy makers and experts in cutting-edge service delivery, enabling collaborative health research that will make a real difference to people’s lives. The board has a majority Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander membership and comprises highly skilled and experienced professionals from health, education, indigenous and community sectors. “Talking about racism will ensure that there is a voice that provides an alternative thinking, those who have experienced racism will no longer feel alone and bring to the fore ways to change our society for the better,” the institute’s chief executive officer, Lyn Brodie, said. “It will find new ways to address racism and promote diversity within Australia.” “Is Racism the New Black?” is produced by Jason Tamiru from Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre. It will be held at Storey Hall, RMIT, from 7.30pm tomorrow (Thu.). Tickets are $20 and available at the door or online at www.lowitja.org.au/comedy
I love my job! with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE
■ Comedian Matt King has one of those fabulous faces, I know him well from lots of things on telly. He has a show in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2014. He is returning to Australia with a new stand up show at The Comedy Club from March 26-April 20. Tickets are on sale now via Ticketek. The enigmatic 'cult hero' of award winning British sitcom Peep Show, Matt has appeared in an impressive range of international movies including Guy Ritchie’s RocknRolla. As a stand-up comic he has performed at the Edinburgh Festival and at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. I have been told by colleagues that he is the funniest comedian in Australia and I look forward to finding out for myself. Matt also co-wrote and created BBC2 sitcom, Whites, and most Australians will remember and love best as the ghostly English rock star Henry Mallet in acclaimed Australian TV series, Spirited, costarring and created by Claudia Karvan. The role won him the Most Outstanding Performance by an Actor award at the 2011 ASTRAAwards. Matt is currently in production on new feature film Get Santa playing opposite Oscar Award-winning actor Jim Broadbent. The Comedy Club’s Edinburgh Festa Besta will also feature headline Australian comedians Jacques Barrett and Tom Siegert. Jacques has returned from a tour of Europe and Asia to join Matt on the stage. Tom is a headline act at top comedy venues Australia-wide as well as a gifted comedy writer.
Tina, a no-nonsense gal ■ One of the nicest people I have worked with is Tina Arena. Not only brilliantly talented with that fabulous voice, she is a great person. Strong, and a no nonsense sort of gal. I worked with her when she toured with Andrea Bocelli. So I was thrilled to hear that kicking off the exciting new So You Think You Can Dance Thursday night shows on Network Ten from tomorrow (Thu.), Tina is returning home to perform her new single, Reset. Tina Arena is synonymous with Australian music and pop culture. Her voice has resonated throughout generations, from her early days on Young Talent Time, to her coming-of-age debut album Strong As Steel, through to the incredible international success of her sophomore album, 10 times platinum Don’t Ask, and the smash-hit followups In Deep and Just Me. Following the overwhelming success of her latest album Reset – which was her first original English language release in 12 years – Tina returns to our shores ahead of her national tour later in the year. Joining her on the stage are So You Think You Can Dance Australia winners Jack Chambers and Talia Fowler. Ahead of tomorrow’s performance, Tina said: “Dance is an art form I have the utmost respect for, and to share the stage with those who perfect this craft is each and every time an honour for me. Dance and music… for many, one doesn’t live without the other.””
Charlie signs off
● Tina Arena
Great day at Sofitel ■ I spent a lovely couple of hours at the inaugural Sofitel Women in the Arts Luncheon at No. 35 restaurant at Sofitel. It was lovely to catch up with guests and meet new people. I must go back to No.35; it really is impressive with the fabulous floor to ceiling views of our marvellous Melbourne, the ambience and the local produce. The fabulous lamb on the menu was the best I have tasted. It was a great time and wonderful to have all the women involved in the Arts community in one room. Sofitel is in my diary for all special events whether afternoon tea at Sofi’s or a cheeky cocktail at the Atrium on 35, it’s one of my favourite places in Melbourne.
● Matt King, see story top right
● Charlie Pickering ■ I nearly shed a tear along with Carrie Bickmore when Charlie Pickering made his announcement about leaving The Project TV program. After nearly five years behind the desk at Network Ten’s The Project, Charlie has decided to leave the show. Charlie made the tough decision late last year, after much deliberation. His last show will be on Monday, April 7 – three months shy of the fifth anniversary of the launch of The 7pm Project with Charlie, Carrie Bickmore and Dave Hughes. Charlie said: “The Project has been an incredible ride. I have been able to interview everyone from Prime Ministers and astrophysicists to my comedy heroes like Will Ferrell, John Cleese, Clive James and Billy Connolly. “As a stand-up comedian I have never planned to do one thing for five years, let alone five days a week. At the end of last year it was clear to me that I needed to find new challenges. “I will miss working with Carrie, Pete Helliar and all of our regulars. I will miss having my hair maintained by a team of professionals.” Charlie also announced that he and his wife Sarah are also thrilled to be expecting their first child later this year, and will use this opportunity to take a trip overseas while they still can. I have always enjoyed watching Charlie Pickering. I think he is a major talent and I do hope he goes on to other things. Not having him on the screen or in any media project would be a terrible loss. He did a great job for Network Ten and certainly one of the essential parts of why I watch The Project. I do hope Channel Ten retains him. I like what Craig Campbell, Executive Producer, Roving Enterprises, said of Charlie: “Since Charlie joined The Project we have watched him grow from a stand-up comedian to an accomplished broadcaster. His talent and skills have enabled us to develop a formidable format that we are incredibly proud of.” Charlie is highly intelligent and very funny, and is way up there among the top talents in Australia. Let’s hope he is back on screen soon.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014 - Page 11
Confidential Melbourne
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
Ex-soldier wins Tribunal fight to be paid pension
Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets
Fran hosts ‘Insiders’
■ Former AustralianArmy soldier William John Reid has won his fight to be paid a pension after a long fight with the Repatriation Commission. Reid took his case to the Veteran Appeals’ Division of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal of Australia in Melbourne. Senior Member Graham Friedman last week ruled that Reid’s depressive disorder was defencecaused, and that he was entitled to be paid a disability pension at the special rate, eith efect from February 2010. Reid served in the Australian Army from January 1972 until July 1973. He was being paid a 20 per cent pension for back pain caused from his defence work. His pension was increased to 80 per cent in 2010 when hearing loss and tinnitus were accepted by defence-caused.
Reid sought a ruling that his depressive disorder was Army-related, and that he could not work more than eight hours per week. Reid completed an apprenticeship as a mechanic with the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board, then trained with the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Corps. He was posted to the School of Military Engineering. He injured his back when he fell from a bulldozer. At Puckapunyal, he was re-
Vic. bodies lose status ● Fran Kelly ■ Wangaratta-born Barrie Cassidy is stepping down as host of The Insiders so he can write a book. The ABC says his leave is temporary. Fran Kelly from Radio National will take over hosting duties on the ABC1 Sunday morning show. The move has not been welcomed by all. Cartoonist Larry Pickering said Kelly was the “darling of the Lesbian Left”. “Now don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against homosexuals, I have good friends of that persuasion ... this was purely a political issue,” said Pickering, who recalled their days at The Bulletin. “I vividly recall the eighteenth green at Arundel, I was lining up a two-foot putt with a quite a few dollars at stake, when my phone rang: “Hello Larry, it’s Fran here. I can’t run that cartoon, can you do another one?” “Now I’m normally a placid sort of bloke but the first tee could clearly hear my response: ‘You run that f...ing cartoon, you half baked upstart, or walk upstairs and tell Kerry (Packer) why you won't!’ “She ran the cartoon all right but I missed the putt... and that’s something I will never forgive her for. We haven’t spoken since.” Cassidy was raised in Chiltern, attended high school in Rutherglen, worked for the Albury Border Mail and the Shepparton News, then the Melbourne Herald and ABC, before becoming Prime Minister Bob Hawke’s Press Secretary.
■ Emmanuel College has requested a Melbourne Magistrates’ Court Registrars’ Hearing today (Wed.) at 10.30am where it is due to allege a “monies due” civil claim against Maria Torre. ■ Freemasons Victoria Pty Ltd is due to allege a civil claim for “services rendered” against Alejandro Vargas in a pre-hearing conference at 10.30am.
■ A number of Victorian associations have sought to bring their incorporated status to a close, advises Deputy Registrar David Betts: Holy Family Tennis Club Inc.; Broadmeadows Residents Advisory Team (BRAT) Inc.; Folkwaves Cultural Group Inc.; Dobson Kindergarten Inc.; Monash Social & Adventure Club Inc.; West Melbourne Vineyard Network Inc.; Wildlife Health Australia Inc.; Goulburn Valley Athletics Club Inc.; Waterline Sustainable Coastal Communities Inc.; Australian Chronic Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases Foundation Inc.; Pakenham Carols Inc.; Motorcycle Riders’ Association of Victoria Inc.; Flemington Tenants Association Inc.; Richmond Public Tenants Association Inc.; Wangrail Inc.; Australian Stroke Association Inc.; The Probus Club of Canterbury Inc.; Roxburgh Park Little Athletics Club Inc.; Muckatah 4/8p Drain Inc.; Art in Bark Association of Australia (Victorian Branch) Inc.; Power Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Inc.; Broady Social Club Inc.; Diamonds S S F Inc.; Australian Napoleonic Association (A.N.A) Inc.; Rutherglen Community Toy Library Inc.; Williamstown Mens Shed Inc.; Monash Caulfield Art and Design Students Society Inc.; Weston Street Holdings Inc.; The Workers’Occupational Health Centre Inc.; Broomball Victoria Inc.; Myrniong Fire Brigade Community Support Inc.; Hammurabi Cultural Society Inc.; Willaura Mens Shed Inc.; ADDVIC (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Association of Victoria Inc.; Knox Theatre Company Inc.; Australian Plants Society Murrindindi Group Inc.; Healesville Tourist Precinct Inc.; Moreland Stormers Rugby League Club Inc.; The 4 Words Foundation Inc.; Victorian Tigers National League Water Polo Inc.; Gentlemen’s Choice Car & Motorcycle Club Inc.; Ladies Probus Club of Warrawee Inc.; The Probus Club of Sunraysia Inc.; HMASAnzac/Tobruk Association Inc.; Australian Polish Historical Society Inc.; Lake Hawthorn Sailing Club Inc.; Rotary Club of Elsternwick Inc.; Polish Youth Support Society of Victoria Inc.; The Hive Inc.; Apollo Bay Leisure Centre Community Liaison Committee Inc.; Laburisti Italiani Inc.; Arafemi Victoria Inc.; Solar City Calisthenics Club Inc.; East Gippsland Animal Welfare Inc.; Moreland Classic Music Festival Inc.
quired to lift heavy objects. Upon discharge he worked as a mother mechanic at Maryborough and Portland. He worked with a Ford dealership in Melbourne, but his depressive disorder became so severe that he instead took on a clerical position with the Gas and Fuel Corporation, and later the Portland Council. Reid also found work as a business studies computer teacher at a TAFE Institute, worked as a travelling salesman, and later moved to Geelong where he could not find work. “The Tribunal is recently satisfied that there is a casual connection between Mr Reid’s major depressive disorder and the circumstances of his defence service, and finds that his major depressive disorder is defence-caused from February 25, 2010,” Mr Friedman said.
Whispers
Cheer squad
● Andrew Holden ■ Did we hear correctly? Was that Age Editor Andrew Holden on the Jon Faine 774ABC radio program, saying that the DanielAndrewsled Labor Party will be in State Goverment in Victoria in November?
To Court
Rumour Mill
Hear It Here First
Hinch’s high hopes?
● Luke Darcy, Eddie McGuire, Derryn Hunch and Mick Molloy at Triple M last week ■ When Derryn Hinch split with wife Chanel, was he hopeful of a reconciliation with his ex, Jacki Weaver? The pair were married twice previously, from 1983-1996 and 1997-98. Jacki is married to Sean Taylor, and her other previous husbands were Max Hensser and David Price.
Job cuts at Uni ■ Job cuts at La Trobe University in Bundoora and Melbourne could reach 350. The Uni wants to make $65 million in savings. Most of the job cuts will be in administration. Some of the University’s colleges will be merged.
E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au
■ Christian College Geelong Limited has asked for a Registrars’ Hearing today (Wed.) at 11am at Geelong Magistrates’ Court and is due to allege a civil claim against Kaylene Smith for “services rendered”.
Black spots
■ Hundrdes of Victorian communities have been ignored., with mobile phone black spots remaining despite a $100 million plan, reports The Weekly Times.
Prices ■ Lamb prices are about to reach their highest in three years, butchers warn. Lambs are selling for $200 each at market.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Melbourne
Observer
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Melbourne
Observer
Ash On Wednesday
Charges dropped ■ Caulfield businessman Frank Penhalluriack is celebrating that Glen Eira Council has dropped criminal charges against him. The municipality served an infringement notice against the hardware store operator over a rooming house under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act. The Council’s backflip followed the tenant of the Hawthorn Rd property, Tomer Rabba, pleading guilty to failing to register a rooming house. He was placed on a 12 month bond and ordered to pay $2000 to the Court Fund.
Birthday
● Frank Penhalluriack
Long Shots
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■ As a teenager, in 1972, I used to bundle newspapers some nights at Stock and Land newspaper, in North Melbourne. The paper is this year celebrating its 100th annivesary, and is holding a centenary gala dinner on July 4 at the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds. Those attending the black-tie event will pay $170 per person. I knew lamb prices were up, but that’s five-star in anyone’s language.
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with Ash Long “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”
Observer Treasury
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■ Long Shots does not know all the details of the ‘racist’ stubby holders made by members at Sunshine Police Station ... and we don’t support racism ... but isn’t going a bit too far, sacking experienced officers such as Sgt Callum McCann? It reminds us of the tragedy at Healesville Police Station when Sgt Tony Van Gorp was sacked by then-Chief Commissioner Simon Overland. Tony Van Gorp suicided at the station soon after.
Sick list ■ Get well wishes to our Observer columnists Yvonne Lawrence and Jim Sherlock, both on the sick list. Their columns will return soon.
with K enneth Mulholland Kenneth
Robert Meillon
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Melbourne TV Memories
Thought For The Week ■ “Some people recognise their responsibilities in time to dodge them.” ■ “Criticising another’s garden doesn’t keep the weeds out of your own.”
Observer Curmudgeon ■ “Conversation is an exercise of the mind, but gossiping is merely an exercise of the tongue.” - The Buloke Times
Text For The Week ■ "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin." - James 4:17 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.
■ I should like to make it clear that what I have to say about Bob is in no way to be taken as derogatory to him or to his memory. Possibly it is derogatory to me. But it would be wasting time to sue myself. No doubt I'd lose and have to pay court costs as well. In 1970 I married Maria. I met her at Channel 7, and there is much to tell of our journey to the altar (at some other time). Robert was my Best Man. A few weeks later he resigned from HSV-7 and joined ATV-0. There he quickly established himself as a competent A-Grade cameraman while I floundered along as a B-Grade. Several years later Robert married Gail Barling. I was his Best Man (thus fulfilling the early promises we made to each other). I was an inadequate Best Man. Stuart Kinchin or Graham Arthur would have been far better candidates. Graham was assigned the pick-up, or perhaps decanting, of John Meillon from the airport. John was in controlled-drinking mode, calculated to get him through the wedding and reception and still be on his feet at the end. Yet Bob and I had locked each other in years before and so did the best we could for the sake of our close friendship of old. Bob always maintained that he had never changed in his friendship toward me. I too had said as much early on, yet it didn't take me too long to realise that human beings are not static, that we constantly change and grow, that our bodies and minds evolve. And that we cannot help but be influenced, and the influences cause us to see the world, ourselves and others anew. Besides, I was falling steadily behind in the television world. I didn't have the desire, the ambition, to move upward. And, I had made the decision to try to write a very large book. The divide widened when Bob became Head Cameraman and later moved into Programming. He was going forward. I was not achieving, still writing and basing that, gambling that, against everything else. Now it was me that was falling apart. Alcohol too was my downfall. It became a part of my life. The world didn't look right unless it was on a slant. However, what befell me is minor to this memoir of Robert. Bob, like his mother and brother, was motivated by a work ethic. And they all had the great good fortune to find a chosen field that suited their temperament: Jill in radio script writing; John in the theatre, television and film; and Robert as a television director. In their time, each of them achieved success, bought hard and at much personal loss. Alcohol, over time, was the devastating price for their triumphs. I know too well the truth of this last sentence. I saw men of some respect reduced to attempting to hide their addiction in all kinds of cunning (to them in their addled minds) ways that simply exposed them for what they had, or were becoming. A Dr Crockett, once gave me some sage advice: “Try not to drink in the morning.” That little pearl took me a lot of years to master. My wife Maria has a great deal to do with me still being able to type these words. Back with Robert. He made the transition from Programming to Directing with relative ease. Or at least he made it look so. I'm not sure if he directed on Matlock Police, as did Graham Arthur, but he definitely did on The Box. In time he directed a number of television series both in Victoria and NSW: Cop Shop, Home and Away, A Country Practice, Neighbours and Holiday Island among them. When my father died at home in the early 80s at the age of 65, my mother rang me early in the morning and I drove over as quickly as I could. There, in that silent house I found Mum at the kitchen table. Dad was in the bedroom. I went in and sat on the floor beside him. His gold watch, a long-service retirement gift, was softly ticking off the seconds on the side-table. I thought, 'So this is how it ends, and this is what it looks like. Dad has stopped and all of us just go on, even his watch goes on. Turn To Page 17
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014 - Page 13
Melbourne People
Sofitel’s ‘Women In The Arts’ Luncheon Photos: Fiona Hamilton
● Emily Langridge (Cosette in Les Mis) and Kerrie Anne Greenland (Eponine in Les Mis)
● Gorgi Coghlan, Bronwyn Lewis and Di Rolle
● Lisa Barron and Kim Fletcher .
● Francine Cain, Lucy Maunder, and Anne Maree McDonald
● Simon Warrender and Chelsea Gibb
● Amanda Elliott and Tony Ellwood.
● Kate Ceberano, Karen Bolinger and Jeremy Healy
● Terence Murphy and Lady Potter
● Donna Demaio and Dee Dee Dunleavy
● Arts Minister Heidi Victoria with Lady Mayoress Emma Page Campbell.
● Antoniette Iesue (Grease), Lucy Maunder (Grease), Francine Cain (Grease), Emily Langridge (Les Mis) and Kerrie Anne Greenland (Les Mis)
Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Relief after typhoon
● The shipping container arrives in the Philippines successfully
The Van with THE LOT ■ Earlier this year, Jack Huxtable and Ian Coad of Morwell Lodge No. 202 presented Life Education Gippsland with a cheque for $30,000. The funds were raised by Freemasons Victoria and the Public Charitable Foundation, and were going towards the purchase of a fully equipped mobile learning centre. The fabulous new van was pur-
chased and launched last week by Grand Master Bob Jones. The Mobile Learning Centre is a travelling classroom that teaches children about good health and safety. The van is equipped with a wheelchair ramp enabling access for children with disabilities and will be available to primary school students in term one of next year.
■ Bro. Malcolm Hurst of Lodge of Evolution No. 931, along with some valuable contacts within the shipping industry, has just arranged a shipment of clothing to be sent to the Philippines. Bro. Malcolm said that he felt such a burning desire to help the community of the Philippines after the devastating typhoon of November 8 last year, and that he knew he had to do something. "Donations were collected through the local churches and then I arranged through my contacts within the shipping industry to get free shipping to the Philippines. “I also arranged free boxes and tape-guns from Visy Board." Bro. Malcolm said. Bro. Malcolm then wrote a letter to the Mayor of Davao, who responded saying that he would arrange collection of the container and distribution of the goods. He would also make sure that the container would get through customs tax-free. Bro. Malcolm is also working on sending two more containers of bottled water - a resource the Filipino community need so desperately, and is working on a project to assist building a school that will replace one of those lost in the typhoon. If you think you can assist Bro. Malcolm with his initiative, either physically or financially he can be contacted on 0407008008 or mal@malhurst.com
Doric Coaching Service
● Doric Coaching at work ■ Session dates are now available for the next round of Doric Coaching. The Doric (Masonic) Education Coaching Service is a non-profit organisation administered as a community service by volunteer Freemasons. It is dedicated to helping students improve their performance in English and Mathematics for years 4-10. Sessions are usually two hours of Maths ,or two hours of English alternating each week. Tuition is scheduled between 9am - 11am on Saturday mornings. Month Day May 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st June 7th, 14th, 21st July 19th, 26th August 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th September 6th, 13th The Service is located in the Werribee Masonic Centre, 223-225 Watton St, Werribee (corner of Watton and Greaves Sts - entry via Greaves St. To register your interest contact Graham West on 9741 6324 or 0412 567 518 or Ted Finch on 9741 8193 or 0412 829 729 or alternatively email vicmasons@optusnet.com.au
Cleaning up Australia
● Jack Huxtable with the Life Education giraffe at the launch of the Life Education Gippsland van
■ WBro. Jim Mitchell of Sandringham Lodge No. 220 was cleaning up Australia one bag at a time as part of Clean Up Australia Day this year. Clean Up Australia Day, held annually, kicked off on Sunday March 2 , and according to WBro. Jim, anybody from all walks of life can participate in the initiative. "To become a registered participant as I am, all you need to do is go online, click on 'Join a clean-up site', and fill in a simple questionnaire,” WBro. Jim said "On the day, you simply report to the Site Supervisor who is equipped with rubbish bags and gloves, and off you go!" he said. WBro. Jim said that his Site Supervisor of the Mentone District was Ms Joanne Jeans who has been supporting this clean up for a number of years. "Clean up Australia welcomes anybody, company or group to join as a Community Sponsor of Clean up Australia Day. I wanted to show how Freemasonry helps to serve the community,” WBro. Jim said. For more information visit: www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/ join
● WBro. Jim Mitchell with Mentone Site Supervisor Ms Joanne Jeans, cleaning up Australia.
● To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, or attend upcoming public events, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au or ’Like’ our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/freemasonsvic for the most up to date information. ● Don't miss Series 2 of Freemasons: The Inside Story, airing Monday nights at 8:30pm on Channel 31, or visit www.C31.org.au to watch it online.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne
Observer
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014 - Page 15
West Hollywood
150 years of racing celebrated From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.
Prince turns LA purple ■ Prince and his New Power Generation band delivered last Saturday night during his surprise show at the Hollywood Palladium. Fans scrambled to get tickets (at $100 cash) for the show announced over Twitter and Facebook late Saturday afternoon. They had to wait two hours after the announced start time of 8pm for the purple one's arrival. They didn't mind when he exploded into Big City with his 22-piece band. Prince himself led proceedings with an expert hand, voice and feet, demonstrating that his power as a dynamic frontman hasn't diminished since his 1980s days of superstardom. Prince is releasing his new album called Plectrumelectrum which is one of the best album names I have heard in my 40year career.
Flemington’s 150th
■ Way back then, at the very beginning, the Victorian Turf Club was formed (1852) and five years later the Victorian Jockey Club was formed ... and eventually they both formed the powerhouse Victorian Racing Club. We have all been guests of the VRC at race meetings and functions. More than 100,000 guests pay homage every Melbourne Cup Day when Flemington is at its finest. A very special portrait by leading photographer Ellis Parrinder features the personalities who have made the 150-year celebration one of the biggest in racing history. Racing royalty, Gai Waterhouse, Glen Boss, Lee Freedman, the late Roy 'The Professor’ Higgins winner of two Melbourne Cups, and Harry White, winner of four Melbourne Cups. There are media personalities, owners, trainers even the Premier, the Minister of Racing, Dr. Denis Napthine, included in this special portrait, which is on display in the Atrium at Flemington. ■ Much has been said about Roy Higgins who was one of the most gracious gentlemen you could ever meet. I used to see him regularly at Channel 7 in Wells Street, the old studios in South Melbourne. He would tell some amazing stories. All of Australia will miss him. He made so many people happy with his wins and wit. R.I.P. Professor.
● Pictured at the Party is Ramada Plaza, West Hollywood Chief, Alan Johnson with former Deputy Chief Executive of the VRC, Sue Lloyd-Williams ,and Paul Birchall, hotelier and race horse breeder.
Hollywood Park stops racing
● Pictured at the closing of Hollywood Park, Alan Johnson, Managing Director of Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites in West Hollywood, with racing royalty, Gai Waterhouse. ■ Hollywood Park, located in Inglewood, a city of Los Angeles, about five kilometers from LAX and adjacent to the newly refurbished Forum Arena, stopped horse racing and has closed down the course. After 75 years of racing, the crowds were diminishing and it wasn't the attraction like it was in the 40s, 50s and 60s. The Hollywood Turf Club opened the track in 1938 and its Chairman was Harry Warner of Warner Brothers, and its 600 shareholders included Hollywood film stars, producers and directors. It was one huge party from race one till closing, late into the early morning. Sadly some of Hollywood Park has been sold to real estate developers. I can see a huge shopping centre and apartments being built on this prime land.
United’s baggage blitz ■ The third largest airline in the States, United Airlines, is cracking down on passengers who drag oversized bags into the cabin. The airline is doing this to win points with passengers. The crackdown on over sized bags is an effort to address what United says is one of the biggest gripes among its passengers: Over-head bins are so over stuffed with carry-on bags that the boarding process is often bogged down as fliers try to find space for their luggage. The size that is acceptable is 22-by14-by-9 inches. Good luck with that.
Hotels do battle
GavinWood
From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd
Hollywood Walk of Fame ■ Last week I told you about Detroit-born, Ray Parker Jnr being honoured with his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and I have a great pic of Ray at his star without all the usual frenzy of paparazzi. This week a new star was uncovered and that belonged to the Titanic sta,r and star of many movies, English actress and singer, Kate Winslet. Kate was the youngest person to acquire six Academy Award nominations and also won the Academy Award for Best Actress for the 2008 movie, The Reader. I have included the official invitation for you to see. Hooray for Hollywood.
■ In the battle among hotels to offer the most comfortable beds, Four Seasons Hotels is going to the mattresses. Four Seasons will begin to offer guests customised beds with mattress toppers that vary in firmness at the request of the guest. Half of all guests like medium firmness, 28 per cent preferred extra firm and 14 per cent liked soft mattresses. The guest will get to request the firmness they want when they check in, and returning guests will find their favourite mattress top already in their room. Some 30 per centof those guests surveyed said uncomfortable beds have forced them to request a new hotel room. Handfuls have even slept on the floor or in the bathtub to get a good night's sleep.
Taylor Swift: on top of the world ■ Taylor was announced the winner of Billboard magazine's annual Money Makers ranking of musicians who reaped the biggest paydays during 2013. Taylor Swift came in first with $39.7 million with revenue from music sales, publishing and royalties and also concert tickets. She came in strongly ahead of No. 2 finisher Kenny Chesney, another country act, whose earnings for the year were estimated at $33 million. Justin Timberlake came in third with $31 million and Bon Jovi just behind at $29 million. Rounding out the top 5 earners in 2013 came the Rolling Stones with $26 million. If you have the cash to splash on a brilliant holiday, I have got the special holiday deal for you.
● Ray Parker Jnr
● The invitation for the Kate Winslet ‘star’
www.gavinwood.us
Special Holiday Offer
■ I have managed to secure a terrific holiday deal for all readers of the Melbourne Observer. When planning your trip to Los Angeles, come and stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood. Please mention 'Melbourne Observer' when you book and you will receive the special rate of the day. Please contact Joanna at info@ramadaweho.com See you at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, Happy Holidays, Gavin Wood
Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Melbourne
Observer
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Travellers’Good Buys
with David Ellis
Bundanoon’s Brigadoon, a real hit ■ Drive into picturesque little Bundanoon about half way between Sydney and Canberra on Saturday April 5, and if not forewarned you could be excused for thinking that as you rounded that last corner, you are being somehow transported into the Highlands of Scotland, rather than the postcard-perfect Southern Highlands of NSW. Or that again, somehow, some Scottish superpower has mystically taken over the place, time-warping you back to the Dark Ages and a time of the Saxons, the Normans and the rampaging Vikings…. For today the air will be filled with the skirl of bagpipes and the beating of drums, the streets alive with folks dressed in kilts and tartans, and on the town’s oval knights in ancient armour and wielding mighty swords will have you reminiscing over days of childhood history books and a time when men fought not only over land, but chivalrously over the love of a lady… And off-setting all this, your nostrils will be seduced with the wondrous aromas of steaming hot Scots mutton pies, drop scones, fresh-baked Highland shortbreads and Abernethy biscuits, gingerbreads and butterscotches, blood pudding and haggis. Because this day, April 5 is when 21st century Bundanoon loses its identify for a day, and like in the Hollywood movie, as the Highlands’ mist
● The Southern Highlands come alive on April 5 with music of another kind
Melbourne
Observer Wines & Liqueurs
with David Ellis
Diamond Creek estate’s gem ■ The NSW Southern Highlands is considered one of Australia’s newest wine regions, yet the first wine grapes were in fact grown there by surgeon, explorer and settler Dr Charles Throsby at his property, Throsby Park in Moss Vale way back in the 1820s, most likely for making into small quantities of fortifieds that were popular at the time. But it took another 160 years before the region was recognised for its potential for producing exceptional cool climate wines, with a couple of vineyards planted in the 1980s and followed by more from the 1990s. Today there are 60 vineyards across the Southern Highlands and some 15 cellar doors at which to enjoy their product. One really worthy of a visit on a trip down that way – and it’s just over 100km south of Sydney – is Diamond Creek Estate that planted 7ha of vines at Mittagong in 1997, today hand-picking these and having its wines made under contract by local wineries. Particularly rewarding is their 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon that has wonderfully intense blackcurrant and cassis on the palate, and a hint of mint. Surprisingly its just $22 a bottle cellar door or $264 a dozen plus freight (free within the Highlands, around $20 NSW, elsewhere TBA) and a great drop with crumbed lamb cutlets and garlic potatoes. For details or to order go onto www.diamondcreekestate.com.au, or if you’d like to have a chat about this and their other reds and their whites, call them on (02) 4872 3311.
One to note ■ Western Australia’s cool maritime Margaret River is undoubtedly our most-prolific region for standout Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, and Voyager Estate’s 2013 is an interestingly sophisticated, yet easy drinking example of this popular blend. With 55 per cent Sauvignon Blanc and 45 per cent Semillon picked from across fourteen vineyard blocks, all fruit was harvested in a record eight days after an almost-bizarre weather pattern that saw the driest July on record, good Spring rains, November storms and a hot summer. But the result is a classic drop with vibrant fresh and crunchy tropical and citrus fruit flavours; at $24 perfect with Thai Chicken Curry, or all manner of seafoods.
Pictured ■ NSW Southern Highland beauty to enjoy with crumbed lamb cutlets and garlic mashed potatoes. ■ Perfect with Thai Chicken Curry, or all manner of seafoods.
rises in the morning a transformation miraculously takes places – and Bundanoon is Brigadoon for a magical 24-hours. Bringing the diverse tastes and experiences of Scotland to this little community of around 2,500 folk who enjoy the peace, tranquillity and lifestyle of the NSW Southern Highlands, Bundanoon is Brigadoon has become so popular that now in its 37th year it’s expected to attract around 12,000 visitors, which makes it one of the largest gatherings of all things Scottish outside Scotland. Even the railways get in on the act, replacing Bundanoon’s station signboards with Brigadoon for the day. And those 12,000 visitors will have plenty to keep them amused, including the Sydney-based Danelaw Medieval Re-enactment Group whose members use real weapons and armour in action-packed displays of how combatants fought in the era from the early Dark Ages through to the Renaissance. As well, the always-popular Tartan Warriors will be making their 22nd annual appearance at Bundanoon is Brigadoon, the strongmen group competing to see who amongst them will be the fastest to lift the five Stones of Manhood weighing 100kg, 115kg, 125kg, 140kg and a whopping 165kg onto five wine barrels five metres apart. The lifting of such stones dates back to earliest Scottish times when a boy was welcomed into manhood if he could lift to waist-height a “testing stone” that weighed two imperial stone, or 12.7kg. There’ll also be caber tossing using what look like scaled-down 6m power poles, a hay toss, shot putt and kilted races. And less hernia-inducing, hurling water-filled balloons seemingly-impossible distances for partners to catch without getting a drenching if the balloon bursts in the catch (the record is 49.4 metres,) or more bizarrely tossing fresh eggs across an oval for another to equally deftly catch without suffering gooey consequences – with the longest-ever for this, an amazing 59.6 metres. There’ll also be Scottish Country and Highland Dancing demonstrations – with visitors invited to join in reels and jigs – and a Street Parade with over 20 pipe bands, colourful floats, and marching Scottish Clans and Societies And for wee lads and lasses 5 years and under, a Bonny Bairns Highland Dress Competition, and organised games for older children. Plus some 100 arts and crafts stalls, Scottish and Tartan specialty stalls, and around 30 Clans and Societies will have information stalls helping visitors about possible Scottish ancestry. And plenty of food outlets dispensing all those things wonderfully Scottish… Then finally as the sun sets and the crowds drift off into the gloaming, or stay on for Ceilidh (dancing) in the local hall, and as Auld Lang Syne ultimately rings out, Brigadoon will slip into sleep once more for another year, Bundanoon will revert to its quiet self... and the local railway station will once again become, well, Bundanoon. Entry $20 adults, $10 children, $18 concessions and $50 for a family of two adults and two children, with a discount if you book online: visit www.brigadoon.net.au
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne
Observer
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014 - Page 17
Melbourne TV Memories
Berlin, Austin, Melbourne – riffing on global music cities at SXSW ■ The world’s largest annual music conference South by South West (SXSW), continues this week in Austin, the capital of Texas; and the dynamism behind creative music cities such as Austin, Melbourne and Berlin will be the topic of a panel discussion I’ll be moderating. So what, if anything, ties these cities together? As the program guide highlights, Austin, Melbourne and Berlin sit at “far corners of the world with different cultures, climates and distinct sounds”. But each has something in common – they are hubs of intense musical activities and have a high concentration of live music venues (including live music in bars, cafes and restaurants) in their respective countries. Austin, a hippy, college town and home to the Texan parliament, has moved beyond its Americana roots (with music greats such as Janis Joplin and Willie Nelson) and has embraced the contemporary indie music scene. Melbourne
Observer
By ANDREA BAKER Senior lecturer in journalism at Monash University
www.theconversation.edu.au Today Austin (population of about 1.8 million) is world renowned for its 230 (or so) live music venues. This is more than its fierce competitor, Nashville, the capital of Tennessee (population of about 1.5 million) which has about 100 live music venues. Like Austin, Melbourne is also known for its hyper-concentration of live music venues and has been called the “Austin of the Southern hemisphere”. The 2012 Victorian Live Music Census reported that Melbourne has more live music venues (470 plus) than any other city in Australia. Melbourne was home to Australia’s post-punk movement in the 1970s and nurtured world famous music exports such as Nick Cave. Since the 1980s the
city has fostered a vibrant independent music scene. During the 1980s Germany’s former West Berlin also nurtured the careers of the expat Nick Cave and his band. They converged on the divided city after famed, exiled musicians such as David Bowie and Iggy Pop made their mark there during the 1970s. Today Berlin and Melbourne have roughly the same population (3.5 million) and about the same number of live music venues, if you also include Berlin’s groundbreaking post-wall techno (such as Tresor) and club culture scene, a scene which continues to fuel contemporary Berlin’s music economy. With reunification in the late 1990s, Berlin regained its capital status of Germany and today is home to one the world’s most famous music clus-
ters, known as the Media Spree, which is situated in no mans’ land between the former East and West Berlin. During the 2000s the Media Spree area, which consisted of abandoned industrial and service buildings (unknown to gentrification) from the former German Democratic Republic, was home to Berlin’s postwall techno club scene. Today the Media Spree has gentrified to accommodate the German headquarters of Universal Entertainment Inc, MTV Germany and Nhow, the world’s first music hotel, which since 2010, has played host to the city’s annual Berlin Music Week. Held each September, Berlin Music Week is run by the City of Berlin and evolved out of another music event called Pop.com, which was moved from Cologne to Berlin. Similar to Berlin, Melbourne has an annual music week (Melbourne Music Week) organised by the City of Melbourne, which was also set up
● People wait outside in the rain for a show to open on the second day of this year’s SXSW in Austin, Texas. In the late 1990s with other German (such as which was also set up in 2010 and runs each No- the rapid growth of Hamburg or Cologne) or vember in the central SXSW, Austin became European city noted for the self-proclaimed ‘Live its music culture business district. Austin’s SXSW festi- Music Capital of the In March 2013, the val was created by a lo- World’, and the local mu- global live music centre cal business called sic industry earns the city and stats tracker Pollstar SXSW Inc in 1987, and roughly US$1.6 billion a confirmed Melbourne’s by the late 1990s had year. place as the Live Music Unlike Austin, Capital of Australia, with earned a global reputation as a breeding ground for Berlin’s music industry a local music industry new music ideas and cre- had a “poor but sexy” which contributes more image, which a post-wall than A$1 billion a year to ative technologies. Each March, SXSW, slogan was given to the the state’s economy. with a music cluster along city by its then, Mayor A case study of global its famous 6th Street in Klaus Wowereit to attract music cities such as Ausdowntown Austin, at- creative types. tin, Melbourne and BerUnited and revitalised, lin suggests an intuitive tracts more than one milcontemporary Berlin is link between a vibrant lion visitors. Austin, Melbourne emerging as the “music music culture and a growand Berlin’s live music in- paradise” of Europe with ing, cultural economy – dustry contribute gener- a local music industry re- and can hopefully give us ously to the cultural portedly contributing at some ideas of how to capieconomies in their re- least •1 billion a year. talise on the successes of This is more than any others. spective countries.
Melbourne TV Memories
By Kenneth Mulholland
My fondest memories of Robert Meillon From Page 12 My father; who read to me when I was little, who worked all his adult life, who I read to in his last days. I really never thought this time would come, and here it is. I stayed with him for ... how long? Listening to that faint ticking and knowing that this was the last of time that he and I would share together. The Last Of All Time. After having to identify him later that day, which was traumatic because rigor mortis had set in, I made my way to the Burvale Hotel for a few quiet drinks. I didn't want to get drunk, I just wanted the company of work-mates without the fuss, so I didn't mention Dad's passing. The talk was the usual trivia, and eventually I went home to Maria. Mum had been taken to my sister's home. An hour or so after, there was a knock at the door and it was Robert. He'd had a bit more to drink than I had, but he took the time to stop by. He'd met Dad on several occasions through the sixties and they got on well. I really didn't want to talk much, but I've never forgotten Bob's kindness. Again, I believe he was trying to tell me that he had never changed, that he was still the same loyal friend. Yes, he believed he had never changed. He couldn't see it, but of course he had. He was no longer the loose cannon, the 'Rent a Bobby,' party animal. He had grown up and was be
coming a responsible, dedicated, hard-working, talented television Director. I could plainly see that, because I had changed, and understood. Still, I thanked him for his kind remembrance of Dad. Bob was there, quietly in the background at the funeral. I knew, if he could manage it, that he would be. I sensed him there. He slipped away before I could speak with him. The years around that particular time were difficult for both Bob and Gail, and Maria and I. Two children were involved, and of those events I shall pass over without comment. They are private. Suffice to say they had traumatic consequences on all of us. In the eighties, as the seventies, there were still dinners and gettogethers, the last at Park Orchards, with Godfrey Philipp. Bob's sister Lyn had come down from NSW and that was the final time we met before she died. By then of course, Jill Meillon had indeed passed on. I made a total fool of myself, though not quite as physically as Bob, who memorably managed to crash though our engagement presents back in 1968 before staggering off into the night. The following day, which was my day off, I returned to the scene of the near disaster. Robert and his young son James were there. Bob wanted me to come over, and against my grain I had agreed. I begrudged losing writing time on my
book. It was our final, personal time together. Bob was surprised at how I had altered, who he thought I had chosen as friends, why he didn't think they were good for me and what I should do. Our time as fast friends was well up. I drank white wine. My choice of poison. Bob drank Scotch. I checked on James, who was fast asleep, before I departed in the wee hours. I left a note scribbled on a sheet: “It was great fun. But it was just one of those things.” That was the final written comment between us. On our wall today is a framed replica of the Able Tasman map of Australis Incognito. It is one of a limited edition, and on the back is the handwritten credo: “Thanks for 20 very funny years. Here's to 20 more. Robert Meillon.” I couldn't manage fourscore. Our close, deep, warm, abiding friendship, our blood-brother brief had ebbed away. It was my fault. The hand that was held aloft in the sea couldn't be clasped. I let it slip away. I watched as it flowed into the waves. I turned my face into another wind. The little dog Mahatma, June Salter and the wizened figure of John Meillon all became a part of the passing parade as the years relentlessly moved on. Meantime, I was struggling with my own problems. The drink was part of it, but there were other pressures that here are not needed to recount. Let's just say that I fell, and fell.
Got up and fell again, only to be bowled over, whacked, rattled and whacked again. And amongst all that I managed to hurt a lot of people who trusted me. I was fortunate. The important people stayed with me. My last face-to-face encounter with him was on Prisoner. I was working freelance and Peter Hind got me in one day without telling me Bob was directing. We hadn't seen each other for quite some time, but I remember him coming into the studio beaming. “Hello! Fellow quinquagenarian!” Robert was inclined to such grand statements at times, and there was the echo of his brother's sometimes pompous pontification. It wasn't a warm reunion. My fault entirely. I had simply moved on in my life in an entirely different direction away from television. I was attempting to work in small business, trying to stay sober, still writing and painting. And wanting to get away from the culture of TV and all the drinking buddies who were destroying themselves. That day at lunch break I stayed in the studio reading or researching, and Robert spent some time with several of the cast, running them through their lines. He reminded me of Bud Tingwell. Very gentle but firm in what he had in mind and what he expected from the players. His thinking in regard to the various motivations for each character was logical, steering the actors
thoughts and defining their situations against the others was well conceived and made complete sense to them. At the end of that day, Bob and I met in the corridor outside Studio B. for the last time. I felt that he wanted to spend a while, say something, but I simply couldn't bear it. I couldn't attempt the words, the redress of a friendship, a strong friendship, that I felt was no longer valid on my behalf. I just couldn't pretend. I tried to be off-handed. 'Hoo-roo!' That was the final farewell. I marched down the corridor, turning my back on someone who had been a dear friend, my Best Man, a long ago soul mate, a bloke I met when I was 19, spent many times with him over 30 plus years, and shed because I knew we were both aimed in different directions. Robert was to go on with a successful directing career for some years, dogged by alcohol. I was to survive, dogged by alcohol, aided by my dear wife and close friends. I'm now almost older than Bob. Indeed I have passed him. I have already passed many of the people I worked with during the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s. You will all have seen people play 'The Air Guitar’, 'The Air Drums’, 'The Air Sax’. But there is only one man I know who could play 'The Air Organ', pedals, keyboard and all. And he, at sometime through space and years, was once my friend. - Kenneth Mulholland
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Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014
■ I recently watched two films starring British actor Robert Donat -The Thirty Nine Steps and Goodbye Mr Chips. I was absorbed with Robert Donat and I thought it would be nice to research Whatever Happened to this handsome actor. I hope you enjoy this week's article. Friedrich Robert Donat was born in 1905 in Withington, Manchester. He was the youngest son of Ernst and Rose Donat. Robert had elocution lessons to correct a stammer during his primary school years. As a result of the lessons his broad Lancashire accent was replaced by the beautiful speaking voice that he used in his stage and film work. His elocution teacher also gave him stage training and suggested to his parents that Robert should be given a chance to become an actor. He made his professional stage debut at the age of 16 in Birmingham. In 1924 he joined the renowned Shakespearean company of Sir Frank Benson where he stayed for four years. In 1929 Robert married Ella Voysey and the couple had three children during their 17 years together. In 1932 Robert was cast in Men Of Tomorrow - sadly this film in which Robert co-starred with Merle Oberon is now lost. His first major film role was as Thomas Culpeper in The Private Life of Henry VIII. It is interesting to note that Robert Donat made all
Whatever Happened To ... Robert Donat By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM of his films in the UK with the exception of The Count of Monte Cristo which was produced by United Artists Studios in Hollywood. Robert did not like Hollywood and wanted to be home where he could do stage work and films. He thought that acting in films was a boring job that paid well. He turned down many offers including the role of Captain Blood which eventually went to Errol Flynn. In 1935 Robert worked with the famous director Alfred Hitchcock on The Thirty Nine Steps which has remained a classic over the years. His other films included The Ghost Goes West, Knight Without Armour, Young Mr Pitt and The Winslow Boy.
● Robert Donat Robert Donat was nominated for an Oscar for his role in The Citadel in 1938 and won the
Best Actor Academy Award the following year for Goodbye Mr Chips. MGM Studios wanted Robert to make more films but he insisted on appearing in stage plays. His wife Ella took their children to the safety of the US during the war years and Robert continued to work in the UK. Ella and Robert grew apart and divorced in 1947. In 1953 he married Renée Asherson and they were together for the rest of his life. In the 1950s Robert starred in films such as The Cure For Love, Lease Of Life and The Magic Box. His final film was The Inn Of The Sixth Happiness with Ingrid Bergman but Robert was very ill during the production. His final line as the Mandarin was very poignant - "It is time to go, old friends. We shall not see each other again, I think. Farewell, Jan-Ai." Robert Donat died in 1958 at the age of fifty three. He had suffered with asthma during his lifetime but the cause of death was determined to be a brain tumour. What a shame that this great English actor died so young. Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce & PhilSundays at 8.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12Noon 96.5FM is streaming on the internet. To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and follow the prompts.
Snakes, spiders are my Outback mates
■ I've been around snakes and spiders for most of my life, and have learned how to happily co-exist with both creatures. Spiders I don't like overmuch, but am quite comfortable in their presence. I'm in the minority, though. I keep both sets of creatures in my shop, specifically to show to overseas visitors who rarely get to see our infa-
mous ‘critters’, reptiles and arachnids, up close. Most people will suffer from either arachnophobia or reptiliaphobia to a certain extent, from mild to extreme. Arachnophobia is the worst, with some people not even coming in to a room with spiders present. I pride myself on being able to cure most reptile issues on the spot, or in
Local Theatre Extra Confessions
■ Boutique Theatre presents Dog Sees God: Confessions Of A Teenage Blockhead from March 20 – 29 at the Brunswick Mechanics Institute. Written by Bert V. Royal and directed by Byron Bache and Emma Caldwell, Dog tells of Charlie Brown’s dog contracting rabies, killing a “little yellow bird” and having to be put down, so Charlie begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation, his sister has gone Goth, his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalised and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. However, a chance meeting with the target of the group’s bullying offers CB a peace of mind, and sets in motion a friendship that will push teen angst to the very limits. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen towards an ending that’s both haunting … and hopeful. Season: March 20 – 29 Times: Tues – Sat 8pm, Sun 6pm Venue: Brunswick Mechanics Institute, 270 Sydney Rd, Brunswick Tickets: $36 full, $29 concession, $28 preview Bookings: online at www.boutiquetheatreco.com and at door (subject to availability) www.boutiquetheatreco.com
Orphanage of the Animals ■ One of the great things about the multi-faceted nature of theatre is it not only entertains, but can also give a voice to social issues, such as in La Mama’s production of Orphanage Of The Animals. Written by Karen Corbett and directed by Catherine Samsury, Orphanage explores the voices of the traumatized children that can inhabit us, inspired by the Holocaust research of Bracha Ettinger. Robert Lingham’s clever set depicting an emotional wasteland where child ghosts haunt their adult bodies, sometimes retreating into their animal personae, comprises empty cardboard boxes (devoid of materialistic objects) and assorted refuse. The lovely original music composed by Nela Trifkovic gives a lilting, independent voice against the wailing and chanting Chorus of the Mothers (Justine Anderson, Rose Godde and Indija N. Mahjoeddin), who add an interesting Greek chorus-style dimension to the narrative. The cast of fine actors includes Jasper Bagg, Susan Bracewell, Karen Corbett, Francesca Waters and Russell Walsh, who multi-role play child and adult roles in various situations, while Bronwyn Pringle’s lighting design helps distinguish between play and abuse. Particular standouts for me were Justine Anderson’s beautiful singing and Francesca Waters’ riveting performance. For mainstream audiences, the cast’s acting skills would be better utilised in less obscure scenarios to ensure the intended messages about trauma and abuse are more clearly conveyed. - Cheryl Threadgold
just a few minutes. The subconscious, illogical fear of snakes is for most people from childhood, usually inherited from parents. So when I extract one of my harmless little Stimson's Pythons from its enclosure, show them how tame and friendly and unbiting it is, and invite them to just give its tail a pat, they usually soon realise the folly of this fear. In a few minutes it's crawling over their arm, their fear gone. A little more difficult with funnel webs, though. ■ I've ‘done’ The Ghan to Alice a couple of times. In 2004 it was extended up to Darwin, providing one of the great train journeys of the world. So its 10th anniversary has just come up. Since childhood I have loved the clickety-clack of train travel, and especially love to sleep through this sound and motion. My first trip west was in the early my early twenties when myself and a couple of Monash mates, Mike Headberry and Pete McIntyre, jumped aboard the Overnighter at Spencer St, armed with our sleeping bags, and hopped into our seats and laid them back. We slept through Victoria, arriving in Adelaide bright and early, then on to Pimba where we left the security of the carriage for the wilds of floodsoaked Andamooka. But the Ghan trips were just so peaceful, gazing out on to the salt bush and the gibber plains as the train headed north into the sunset and the dusk - one of the most beautiful sights was the dazzling salt pan of Lake Hart in the glow of the setting sun. And on into a comfy cosy bed. Then, awakening, greeted by the dawn with the Territory's red sand hills and the distant haze of the MacDonnell Ranges. What a trip. ■ Some Territory Government Cabinet documents from 1983 have just been released. One such was the revelation of the consideration of an ‘around-the-world’ helium balloon flight, a la Jules Verne. A $400,000 grant to fund the project was being considered. A British aviator, Julian Nott, was to be the pilot and he was expected to complete the journey in 16 days, beating Phileas Hogg's 80 days.
The Outback Legend
with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au The balloon was to be launched either from Alice or the Rock, dubbed the ‘Advance Australia Conquer Project’, to generate $34m worth of "value" for the NT. The submission didn't succeed. It reminded me of a similar attempt a decade or so ago when I was in Alice. This was by Dave Liniger, of Re-Max real estate fame. Dave loved balloon flying, and chose Alice as his launch pad. There were to be three pilots him, one of his mates, and my mate John Wallington, who ran Outback Ballooning. Dave brought about 90 of his people over from the US for the event - Alice loved them and their spending habits so did I! Fortunately, as it turned out, the balloon didn't leave the ground - the weather was never just perfect. John told me they figured out, in hindsight, that they all would have perished. Maybe time for another, safer, attempt.
And, resultantly, I consider that the absolute greatest disservice which can be inflicted on any child on earth is the denial of an education. Period. Without any education, this child will grow into an imprisoned adult, metaphorically and often practically. One just needs to look around the world to see the results of this - especially among so many downtrodden and disadvantage girls who go into virtual imprisoned slavery, not to mention the disgusting phenomenon of physical mutilation. One of my employees in Coober Pedy once told me: "School never did me any good, so I don't see why my daughter should go any more." She was 14. But there are many parents in the Territory who begin this attitude at age 4, not 14, so, sadly and unfortunately, the state must step in. So the "No School - no Pool" policy was introduced a few years ago. If kids don't go to school, then no pool on sweltering Centre days. This has had limited success, but it's been revved up this year, and is beginning to bite. If only many of our Aboriginal leaders would follow Bess Price's example and spend more time on practical issues like convincing parents to send their kids to school, rather than perpetually railing about mere principles such as "racism", they may make some real tangible progress for their offspring.
■ At the birth of my own three offspring, I trotted along to birthing classes, together with a few other wide-eyed fathers-to-be, and heavily pregnant wives. No partners then. There's a new slant to this age old phenomenon in Alice Springs - a ‘Beer and Bubs’ night. "It's an antenatal session for men only, where a group of blokes gather to learn about what to do and say before and after the birth of the child,” explained host Corrie Philips. These nights are held regularly in the Todd Tavern, and are designed for prospective and recent fathers to casually discuss all the aspects of this phenomenon, which is generally a mystery to them- they're generally just thrown into the deep end! And what better than a drink or two to calm the nerves at this impending ■ I've experienced an education up event. - Nick Le Souef to a BA level, and I have also been a ‘The Outback Legend’ teacher.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014 - Page 19
Observer Readers’ Club The Way We Were
100 years ago Bacchus Marsh Express Saturday, March 21, 1914 The visit of Sir Ian Hamilton to Australia. has been a stupendous success. Every speech, every gesture, every tone of voice, has been an inspiration, to all who came within the range of his charming personality. He has the prestige of a General in high command, who has achieved honour in modern warfare. His mission to Australia is a special service from the Mother Country which all Australians should value now and for all time. The Melbourne Press has been roused to appreciation of the value of his visit. Australia needs all the bracing up which the visits of such leaders of the Army can give them. ALL the Caledonian Societies of Australia should be taking steps to give the new Governor-General and his wife a rousing welcome with a hundred pipers on their landing at St. Kilda. Such an opportunity to do honour to their country and to the Empire can not be surpassed, and as Australia is taking great burdens every day she must not lose any opportunity to make her people fit for the task. Patriotism is made up of many trifles, and there is a large majority ever striv ing to trample upon all patriotic ideals such as can alone make Australia worth living in as part of the British Empire. The Darley Park lias received (through Hen. A. R. Robertson, M.L.A.) a Government grant of £10 towards fencing or other improve ments, on condition that £5 israised locally for the same purpose.
Melbourne Photo Flashback
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Special Birthday
■ Happy 70th birthday yesterday (Tues.) to radio man Ray Lawrence, who can be heard today (Wed.) on Radio Eastern 98.1
Dr Google ● The band which played on the 'Hygeia' paddle steamer. The'Hygeia' left Port Melbourne for moonlight trips around Port Phillip Bay.
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■ In a 2008 survey, 58 per cent of British teens thought Sherlock Holmes was a real guy, while 20 per cent thought Winston Churchill was not.
Your Stars with Christina La Cross
ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 20) If ever there was a great day for reconciliations then this is it. That phone call you were too embarrassed to make to say you're sorry should be made now. What are you waiting for? TAURUS (APR 21 - MAY 21) This is a great day for love and you will not need any clues as to who it is that is after you. You had enough goose chases on your hands last week but now the ball is well and truly in your court, so lie back and enjoy the attention Taurus. GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) I know you can't see an end to certain problems in your life, but I can. Don't bottle everything up inside as that's what will make you ill. Say how you feel and what your needs are. CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) A forceful attitude today could see you asking for things you won't want tomorrow. Slow your pace and let others do the talking. It's the key to you feeling confident in your relationships. LEO (JULY 24 - AUG 23) The need to see a certain person could see you going out of your way today and upsetting the plans and lives of several others. A great day for job interviews. You're coming across as competent. VIRGO (AUG 24 - SEPT 23) Mixed emotions are making it difficult for you to know about those close to you. Stop trying to reach the end of your story when you're only half way through. Listening tonight informs you of much. LIBRA (SEPT 24 - OCT 23) You're not really doing your best work today, but that's because your mind is elsewhere, isn't it my friend? A phone call, sooner rather than later, can put you into a positive mood. SCORPIO (OCT 24 - NOV 22) A fresh view to an old problem helps you feel back in control of your life again. You think you owe someone an apology, but conversations with a third party today could convince you otherwise. SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23 - DEC 21) The temptation to cut corners and be sloppy with your work must be resisted. More important faces than you realise are watching you today, so show how able you are and turn things around. CAPRICORN (DEC 22 - JAN 20) You're trying to fight a change in the family which doesn't directly involve you and you'd be far better to let others make their own decisions. It won't be long before you require freedom of choice. AQUARIUS (JAN 21 - FEB 19) You're changing and I have to say, I really like the person evolving before me now. Don't be afraid to be you. If others don't like it, they may not be the match they first claimed. PISCES (FEB 20 - MARCH 20) Firm arrangements could turn out to have been nothing more than loose ones before today is over. Friends turn into lovers for some Pisces. Changes can't be stopped so ensure you shape them.
Page 20 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Victoria Pictorial
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Kew Historic Photo Collection
● High Street, Kew.
● Kew Town Hall
● Kew War Memorial. 1920s
● Kew Post Office. 1917-30
● High Street, Kew. 1890s
● Tramway Terminus, Kew
● Kew Station. 1905-1928
● High Street, Kew, looking west. 1900-1909