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FUNNY THINGS

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CALAMATIES

■ Kenji Shimada and Bevan Uren appear in Essendon Theatre Company’s one-act play season, Love and Other Calamaties until June 16 at the West Essendon Community Centre, Bradshaw St, West Essendon. Bookings: 0422 029 483.

PHILIP BRADY FEATURE Page 18

SURVIVORS REUNION PICTURES Page 79

COMIC OPERA

Melbourne

Observer ISSN 1447 4611

■ Director Simon Phillips and producer John Frost were resplendent in togas this week at the Old Treasury Building to launch A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum. Details on Page 11.

Photo: JIM LEE PHOTO

■ Melbourne Opera continues to celebrate its tenth anniversary season with Mozart’s great comic masterpiece, Cosi Fan Tutte, at the Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne and at the Alexander Theatre, Monash University, Clayton. See Page 78.

THE OBSERVER: MELBOURNE’S ORIGINAL ‘SOCIAL MEDIA’

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Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

LONDON. PARIS. COLLINS STREET. ■ "I will order a regular laptop, iPad and a mobile phone, anything technological that will compliment my incidental coffee and cake on the side.

Thanks."

Opposite the Regent Theatre at 184 Collins Street, I stopped off at Bistrot d'Orsay between meetings.

On the table beside me, I was drawn to the workings of a mysterious young 'lady in red', vigorously tapping away at her keys who had surrounded herself with electronic gadgets.

Several questions and coffees later, author Alicia Barnes had merrily taken me on an insightful journey to London, Paris and Norfolk explaining the novel she was writing at the café; The Story Teller's Son that will be completed for publication later this year.

Alicia has made a name for herself in the USA, London and New Zealand as one of Australia's inspiring authors after writing for Melbourne designer - Matthew Snowden, for his education online App Inside The World Of Dinosaurs, that took home the coveted ‘Best Application" ‘012 Award in March at the San Francisco 'Appy Award' Ceremony.

Alicia's work for the App was narrated by English actor Stephen Fry, and as it turns out, Alicia's award winning script and her book has mostly been written on these tables on Collins Street.

There are hundreds of cafés in Melbourne, why do you write in this café?

I have been writing here since I was 19: I am now 36. I love this café. I feel like I am in Paris when I'm here and it's been too long since I was wandering the streets of La Ville-Lumière.

I've written poems, letters, press releases, articles and this book under the frescoed ceilings here. I've sat here in the dead of winter in the early evening and watched the lights come on under the portico.

When the leaves drift down from the trees in autumn, and then the star spangled lights of the Regent Theatre over the road light up, it's magical. I've seen transactions made and deals done: I've heard the quiet whisper of secrets over the table; long sighs and sharp words - all over panfried gnocchi. It's the perfect haunt for a writer.

What is your book,The Story Teller's Son about?

The book is set in 15th century Norfolk. It's about a priest who unwinds the disappearance of his father on All Hallows Eve, while in the plague ravished city of Norwich, Anne, a servant of a wealthy household, flees to find another life.

What she least expects is to be pursued by the memory of her deceased mother until imagination, manifestation, and unholy fear congregate in the marshlands, and a demand

NOVEL PORCH THOUGHTS

● Pentaceratops for a sacrifice is made from the living and the dead. The story weaves throughout the picturesque countryside of Norfolk but delves far beyond the hedgerows into the shadows that haunt us most, the ones that are cast by things not of this world but of another.

What inspired you to write this story?

The book began as a creative outlet from my business that focusses on corporate clients. At heart I am a storyteller, and the story has unwound and taken me on an amazing journey.

Yes it does have a life of its own; a good story will do that. You as the writer are simply the one with the pen in hand!

How did you write about 15th century Norfolk on Collins Street?

I seek to be authentic and accurate and so my book had large highlighted sections needing research that could only be done on location. And so I jumped on a plane and researched for nearly two weeks in Norfolk, problem solved!

Were there any highlights by visiting Norfolk that confirmed any part of the storyline?

I met with Brian Ayers, who is a prominent archaeologist for Norfolk and beyond, he spent two days with me exploring the city and cathedral precinct.

His ability to deconstruct the city back to the 1400s was unbelievable.

Secondly was my tour guide for Norfolk, Glynn Burrows who risked life and limb taking me on a small sailing boat on the broads which are waterways that run from Norwich to the coast.

What is your online business EAuthor?

This is my web-based and virtual market communications business. I am a writer and called upon by industry leaders wanting to make their presence felt online. E-Author offers businesses, such as M5859 Studios, Save

● Alicia Barnes. Inset: Stephen Fry the Children, Lenovo and Hocking literary aspect of the project brought Stuart with expertise writing for their to life through his breadth of expericommunications programs to create ence and expertise was inspiring.

What is your fondest memory of compelling, engaging and high imStephen? pact across a range of sectors.

When Stephen last came to Matthew Snowden of M5859 Studio's commissioned you to write Melbourne he invited us as his guests the story for his innovative design to QI at Her Majesty's Theatre, and and cutting-edge graphic anima- then to the ' ' afterwards. He came tion for Inside The World of Dino- in, and asked, "Where are my dinosaurs, what is this App the about? saur people?" It was fabulous!

My heart skipped a beat, and it Inside The World of Dinosaurs has become a massive draw for di- will certainly be a story I will be tellnosaur enthusiast's world-wide. It's ing my grand-children. I felt it was a a complete package of entertainment little 'Golden Ticket' moment.

What is your Porch Thought of for all ages that provides hours of facts and interactive visuals on 60 The Day written at Bistrot d'Orsay?

The irony we speak, the irony we different dinosaurs with over 200 pages of articles and content. It's walk, the irony of passing by strang'must have' App for kids and adults ers, apart and misunderstood. But in one thing we share; a longing soul, a alike.

How did you feel working with craving heart, and a thirst for better Stephen Fry, especially listening to days, for these are the things that transcend religion, politics and war. It is him narrating your story?

Working with Stephen during the of these things that there is hope in recording sessions was both a privi- today and a future for tomorrow.

- Mark Richardson lege and pleasure. Just witnessing the

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

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 9

Breaking News

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

‘CHECKMATE’ BY ACCOUNTANTS Observer IN LEGAL BATTLE OVER BILL In This 96-Page Edition

Jazz legend Graeme Bell dies, 97 ■ Hansens Accountants Pty Ltd has won a legal battle in which Chess World (Australia) Pty Ltd disputed a $17,950.98 bill.

Chess World, which runs competitions, conducts education, and engages in retailing, had only paid $2500 on the account.

Hansens deducted $15,450.98 from a tax refund payable to Chess World.

Chess World went to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal to claim a full refund.

VCAT Deputy President Ian Lulham found fully in favour of Hansens which had performed accounting work in relation to tax advice.

Hansens had told Chess World that it could be eligible for a $75,000 tax concession for an estimated eligible expenditure on software ‘research and development’ of $220,000.

Chess World accepted the proposal, Mr Lulham said. Chess World said the benefit derived was far less than anticipated.

Hansens denied that it misled Chess World, saying that it clearly explained that it charges on matters such as this on the basis of ‘value’, and not billable hours.

Mr Lulham said Chess World’s claim exemplified the misuse of hindsight. ● Melbourne-born jazz legend Graeme Bell has died at the age of 97 ■ There have been many tributes for Graeme which Sherburn took over in 1954, recording Bell, ‘the father of Australian jazz’, who died ‘LP’ records on 78s, and six-track ‘EPs’ on 33 last week at the age of 97.

1/3 vinyl recordings.

Born in Richmond on September 7, 1914.

Melbourne jazz music identity Alex HutGraeme Bell AO MBE was an Australian chinson said: “I first met Graeme in 1955 at Dixieland and classical jazz pianist, composer the Pacific Hotel in Lorne when its mine host and band leader. was the one time champion Collingwood His band's music was hailed for its distinc- footballer Ron Todd tive Australian edge, which he describes as “I was playing at the hotel, Graeme's six“nice larrikinism” and “a happy Aussie out- piece band was appearing at the Beach Hall door feel”.

“Graeme offered me gigs to tour South His father John performed musical com- Australia with his all-star band in 1956 and edy, and his mother Mary (‘Elva’) was a re- 1957 citalist with Dame Nellie Melba. His brother “It led to me gaining greater recognition as Roger was also a jazz musician. a jazz musician and put me on the Australian In an interview with 3CR’s Jazz On A Sat- jazz map so to speak, for which I will be eterurday, Bell recalled his first overseas jazz band nally grateful. overseas just after World War II. “Graeme Bell was a fine musician, a great At the weekend, Bill Armstrong and Nevill Australian and a gentleman who will be sadly Sherburn paid tribute to Bell, noting his in- missed.by the jazz community and everyone volvement with the Swaggy record label, who knew him.”

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 THINGS THAT WILL HAPPEN BEFORE THE SOUTHERN STAR OBSERVATION WHEEL IS OPERATING. 5. Ted Baillieu will be elected head of the Teachers' Union 4. The Arthurs Seat Chairlift will start operating 3. Nick D'Arcy to be named head of the IOC 2. Professor Alan Fels will join 'The Wiggles' 1. Brian Mannix will join the Royal Ballet as a Principal Dancer

Melbourne People: Been and seen ........ Page 10 News: Builder fined $100,000 ............ Page 11 Di Rolle: Mum’s favourite footballers ..... Page 12 Melb. Confidential: No movie for Bert ... Page 13 Long Shots: True Survivors ................. Page 14 Melb. Extra: John Meillon profile ......... Page 16 Yvonne Lawrence: Life and style .......... Page 17 Open Mike: Philip Brady tribute ........... Page 18 Readers Club: Recipes, winners .......... Page 20 Victoria Pictorial: Nostalgic photos ...... Page 59 Survivors Lunch: Photo Souvenir ......... Page 79 Cheryl Threadgold Julie Houghton James Sherlock Aaron Rourke

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

Guilty of assault ■ Bendigo businessman John Filipic, 66, has been found guilty of assault of nail technician Fei Li, who used to rent a room from him at an Eaglehawk salon

Escape case to Court ■ Grant William Kelly, 21, accused of escaping from Police custody in Ballarat hasbeen extradited two years later.

Youth on curfew ■ An Albury youth, 17, will be sentenced on August 7 on charges stemming from incidents at Dareton.

Special Observer Reader Offer

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Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Morning Melodies ■ Suzanne Johnston will present From Bizet to Broadway at 11am and 1.30pm on Friday July 13, at the Arts Centre Melbourne.

She will be accompanied by a select group of young singers from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, the University of Melbourne.

People Melbourne

Send news to editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

● Suzanne Johnston

Fax: 1-800 231 312

Music men at reunion

● Bobby Johnson, known best as drummer for BJ and the Blue Jays, is pictured with former 3AW overnight presenter Keith McGowan at the Survivors lunch held at South Melbourne this week. Report, Page 14. More photos, Page 79.

● Burn The Floor has returned to The Palms At Crown for its sixth season.

Pictured are some of the dancers taking questions after the opening night show on Thursday. Editor Ash Long’s review is on Page 77.

Huggy visits The Block

On the air

Seen At The Institute

● ‘Sophie’ from The Block welcomed Gold 104.3 FM presenter Craig Huggins to the premises at Dorcas St, South Melbourne.

● Heidi Victoria ■ HeidiVictoria, Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier, and Assisting the Premier with the Arts, appears as the special guest on Tropic Island Discs on 3MBS-FM at 6pm this Sunday (June 24).

● Cill Giannarelli and Suzanne Carbone are pictured at the Whitehouse Institute of Design's A[wear] fashion show.

Photo: Sue Deenim

Annie Brady

Birthday girl Natasha

House party ■ A house warming party for the Fr Bob Maguire Foundation will be held from 4.30pm-6.30pm, Wednesday (June 27) at 91 Victoria Ave, Albert Park.

● Melbourne entertainer Philip Brady this week entered into the spirit of Annie The Musical by donning a trade-mark red wig. Philip’s colleague Bert Newton joins the Annie cast from July 24 - one day after his 74th birthday.

PHOTO: MIKE McCOLL JONES

● Carli Phillips and Elise Petty joined with birthday girl Natasha Stipanov, and Simone Turnbull this week for celebrations.

● Fr Bob Maguire

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 11

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Observer

Breaking News

MELB. BUILDER FINED $100,000 Briefs Up Creek

● Jonathan Creek ■ The Seven Network have suspended Today Tonight’s Jonathan Creek while it investigates his role in the staging of fake paparazzi photos of Simone Callahan and boyfriend Toby Roberts, which were later sold to New Idea and Woman’s Day. Creek is alleged to have taken a cut from the payments.

$6m fine.

■ The Federal Court has penalised Malaysia Airlines Cargo $6 million for price fixing as part of a cartel following action by the ACCC.

Tribute

● Gordon Lewis ■ Melbourne-based radio man Gordon Lewis has died at the age of 91. Keith McGowan pays tribute on Page 14.

■ Unregistered builder, Kadri Saydar has been ordered to pay an aggregate fine of $100,000 and legal costs of approximately $20,000, after a prosecution by the Building Commission.

Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court found Saydar guilty of 31 charges relating to breaches of the Building Act and the Domestic Building Contracts Act, including entering into a domestic contract when not registered and carrying out building work before a building permit was issued.

The charges were in relation to illegal building work at five properties in Hume and Whittlesea municipalities.

Builders must register with the Building Practitioners Board.

Surgeon speaks at club

12.45AM. Cheryl Threadgold, community theatre writer, reports on 3AW. www.3aw.com.au

10PM. Rob Foenander presents Country Crossroads on Casey 97.7 FM www.3ser.org.au

THURSDAYS 9.15AM. Editor Ash Long talks with Bob and Judy Phillips on 3RPP. www.rppfm.com.au

● City of Melbourne Deputy Lord Mayor Cr Susan Riley welcomed surgeon Dr Chantel Thornton at Club 3004. Dr Thornton is active in fund-raising for a number of health organisations.

Photo: Mark Richardson

● From Page One ■ A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum will be staged in Melbourne later this year.

Producer John Frost and director Simon Phillips were dressed in togas when they launched the show at the Old Treasury Building on Monday afternoon.

Geoffrey Rush will head a cast of comedy actors in the production to be staged at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday, October 27.

American Composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim is coming to Melbourne to see Geoffrey Rush in the part of Pseudolus.

Rush says: “The lusty conniving Roman slave, Pseudoius, is one of the great classic comic roles this is ancient Rome via Broadway slapstick, and I can’t wait to join so many comedic pals in such an outrageous and hilarious farce.” \ Zero Mostel, Nathan Lane and Phil Silvers all won Tonys playing Pseudolus, and in London, Frank-

with Matt Bissett-Johnson

WEDNESDAYS

10AM. Editor Ash Long talks with Denis Scanlan on The Pulse 94.7 www.947thepulse.com

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM

Melbourne Observations

Listen to the Melbourne Observer on your radio

Opens in Melbourne on October 27

● John Frost ie Howerd, was memorable as the wily slave, 200 BC. A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum is a face, played at breakneck pace, with the plot revolving around Pseudolus,

a cunning Roman slave who will do anything to win his freedom.

The full cast will be announced next week. The musical goes into rehearsal on September 17.

Director Simon Phillips told Monday’s launch gathering: “I’m pixelated at the thought of working on this show.

“The script is a perfect musical theatre confection: a distilled classic farce as wrought by America’s canniest shtick-writers combined with some of Sondheim’s most robust and witty songs.

“I’ve long thought that the lead role might have been written for Geoffrey and I’m surrounding him with a gob-smacking collection of the country’s fi nest comedians.

“It’s hard to imagine a more blissful way to spend an evening,” Phillips said.

Fined $11,880 ■ The owner-operator of a retail flower business in Melbourne has been fined $11,880 for underpaying a young apprentice.

Gavin Francis Sheehan, who owns and runs Greenvale Rose Farm at Mickleham Rd, Attwood, has received the fine in the Federal Magistrates’ Court in Melbourne.

The fine was imposed after Sheehan admitted underpaying an apprentice horticultural employee $17,060 between October, 2007 and October, 2009.

10PM. Kevin Trask presents The Time Tunnel with Walter Williams www.4bc.com.au

FRIDAYS AM. Ted Ryan talks racing with Denis Scanlan on The Pulse 94.7 www.947thepulse.com 2.30PM. Jim Sherlock talks movies/DVDs with Denis Walter on 3AW www.3aw.com.au

SUNDAYS 9AM. Mike McColl Jones talks the Top 5 with Bob Phillips on 3RPP. www.rppfm.com.au 12 NOON. Kevin Trask presents That’s Entertainment on 96.5FM. www.innerfm.org.au 8.20PM. Kevin Trask presents The Time Tunnel on Remember When. www.3aw.com.au

MONDAYS 2PM. Yvonne Lawrence presents Life And Style on 3WBC 94.1FM www.3wbc.org.au 8PM. Len Baker presents Harness Review on 97.9FM www.979fm.net 10PM. Kevin Trask presents Memories Are Made Of This on 4BC www.4bc.com.au

TUESDAYS 6AM. Rob Foenander presents The Big Breakfast on 88.3 Southern FM www.southernfm.com.au

ALSO BE LISTENING FOR Julie Houghton discusses the arts on 3MBS-FM, 3MBS Digital, Online www.3mbs.org.au Jim Sherlock discusses movies/DVDs on 3AW, overnights. www.3aw.com.au Di Rolle discusses Melbourne entertainment on 3AW, overnights. www.3aw.com.au

AND WATCH FOR Country Crossroads TV show on Aurora Channel 183, Foxtel www.aurora.tv

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Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

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To

This Saturday at the Ath.

Di So much to talk about ■ Missing an edition of the Observer last week,.there is lots to talk about this week.

I want to start with dedicating my column to two men.

One is Dale Thomas, a real man, who stood up and drew a line in the sand and pretty much said racial slurs will not be tolerated in support of opposition player Joel Wilkinson.

Quoted in the Herald Sun, Collingwood star Thomas said “There is no room is the game for the sorts of things said to me.”

His lodging of a complaint against racial slurs on the football field will change this forever. That takes a lot of courage.

As a result Ted Baillieu has declared war on racism in football. It’s been a long time coming.

I know when I go to the football I cringe with comments I hear.

The second man I want to mention is Director and Cameraman Robert (Bob)Meillon who passed away in Sydney .

Bob was a much loved member of the Channel 0 team when Channel 10 was ATV0.

I was part of that team and was proud to work with him and know him. We were family us lot, we worked hard, played hard and we all loved each other dearly.

I felt great sadness when I heard of his passing.

Loving brother of the late actor John Meillon, father of James and husband and friend of Gail, Bob Meillon was a kind, special man.

Thoughtful, funny, gentle and extremely talented, Bob loved television.He loved his friends. He was a great thinker and had a high intellect. He could talk on any subject.

He also had that wonderful Meillon voice.

So to Dale and Bob here we go … and there is a special nod in there too for Lindy Chamberlain. Admirable woman. ● Kevin Trask profiles the late John Meillon - Page 16

Beach Boys tour ■ There are lots of exciting tours being announced, The Beach Boys Historic 50th Anniversary Tour being one of them.

Thanks to the Dainty Group which is bringing this tour to Australia – it’s going to be great.

I have seen The Beach Boys several times over the years and they are great live. The dates are confirmed. The planes booked.

Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston and David Marks will be touring together for the first time in more than two decades.

Tickets are on sale now, from Ticketek.

The Beach Boys will be in Melbourne on Friday August 31 at Rod Laver Arena. A concert not to be missed!

The 50th Anniversary Tour, which commenced in North America in April, is receiving critical acclaim and proving to be a historical concert event not to be missed “What amazing songs,” said The New York Times. ● Turn To Page 17

I love my job!

■ Don’t forget Ben Vereen, who is here for the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, is coming to Melbourne to do his show for one night only at The Athenaeum Theatre, on Saturday (June 23).

A true legend of Broadway, Godfather of R & B superstar Usher, Ben will present his show Steppin’ Out with a unique blend of artistry combining a journey of his amazing career on Broadway, and paying tribute to Frank Sinatra, and Sammy Davis Jnr. A fabulous night of song and dance and stories of his life and a great deal of humour.

Saturday June 23 at 8pm.

Tickets www.ticketek.com.au or phone 132849.

For MUM’S FAVOURITE FOOTBALLERS

■ When visiting my dear mother Alyson, up on northern coast of NSW, she spoke to me of the first time she went to a football match,.

She was eight years old. Her beloved mother Mabel took her to see what she described as The Mayblooms, this was Hawthorn before they became the Hawks.

She told me she saw the greatest footballer ever Haydn Bunton Senior and she said he was magnificent and she had never seen anyone come close to him since as a footballer except for Ben Cousins.

This wonderful 90year-old who has been a passionate Hawthorn Football supporter since that day she first saw a game told me that Ben Cousins was an exceptional player and such a sad loss to the AFL. I listened intently as she spoke of Haydn Bunton and The Mayblooms.

I thought I knew everything and I was so loving having this conversation with my football loving mother.

She has always known so much about footy and politics. I adore her and love hearing her stories.

Best ever ■ It appears from what my mother told me that Haydn Bunton Snr, was born on July 5, 1911 and he died in September 1955. He was an Australian Rules football player and coach.

He is regarded certainly by my mother and some historians and observers of Australian Rules as its greatest-ever player.

with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE

column. He was regarded as a sex symbol in the 1930s, and his looks were compared to those of film star Rudolf Valentino.

Mum described going to the football in those days as their only outlet and Bunton’s ability to excite spectators during the 1930s, and relieve them of the misery of the Great Depression, was like going to see cricket superstar Donald Bradman and the much-loved racehorse Phar Lap. I was spellbound listening to my mother speak about these days, and excited about hearing about The Mayblooms.

The Mayblooms, brown and gold are the colours of the maybloom flower ... so ‘Mayblooms’ was the floral epithet used in the early days.

In 1933 the club reversed its jumper colour to a brown V on a yellow background and so earned the nickname ‘Mustard Pots’.

Only one year later

● Haydn Bunton He was born and grew up in Albury, New South Wales. He origi- ■ One of his opponally played for nents, Dick Reynolds, Albury Football Club spied on him during in the Ovens & this activity in order to Murray Football As- learn how to defeat his sociation. technique.

His natural AustraMum told me lian football ability at- Bunton had his own tracted the attention of radio show on then all 12 VFL clubs, and 3DB, and a Melhe was eventually re- bourne newspaper cruited by Fitzroy in 1930.

However, he was unable to play during the 1930 season, after it was shown that Fitzroy had offered him a one-off £222 payment (about $25,000 – $30,000 in present day terms), which was illegal under VFL rules.

His initial, legal match payments were the modest sum of £2 a week. Bunton played as a rover-follower and achieved instant success, winning Brownlow Medals on his first two seasons (1931 and 1932) in the VFL. He worked in a department store during the day, and practised baulking by weaving his way through ● Roy Cazaly crowds of shoppers.

Spy time

● Ben Vereen

● Macy Gray the jumper changed Is. That musical callback, yellow V on ing card spawned the brown background, so classic single I Try and the ‘Mayblooms’ re- both the CD and turned. singles were massive Reference is made global hits. to the ‘Brown BombThey kicked off a ers’ in 1941 but it ap- career ride and a thrivpears that this did not ing acting career. gain acceptance.

Macy’s most recent South Mel- film is the just released bourne’s legendary highly acclaimed and Roy Cazaly took over much talked about: the coaching role at The Paperboy with Hawthorn in 1942 Nicole Kidman, John and it was said to be Cusack, Zach Efron his daughter who and Matthew McCongave them the nick- aughey. name ‘The Hawks’ – Fresh from a world and in May 1943, he tour, and a new album announced that the out in the market place, club would now have this Macy Gray’s seca more aggressive im- ond concert tour to age and the ‘Hawks’ Australia and believe replaced the ‘May- me this is going to be a blooms’. great show.

My mother reHer new album mains to this day a Covered released in staunch one eyed Australia on March 30 Hawthorn supporter. is her first album for Universal Australia (429 records in the States) - the album is a ■ What I am also ex- collection of handcited about is the news picked songs reinterthat Macy Gray is preted in her own incoming back to Aus- imitable fashion cotralia for second con- produced by Zoux, Hal Willner (Lou cert tour.

A superb artist, Reed, Sting, Tom gifted songwriter and Waits, Ringo Starr, dazzling singular Metallica) and Macy singer, this mother of Gray herself.

Macy Gray will three teenagers has been overturning fan perform in Melbourne expectation and indus- on Friday, September try formula since kick- 21 appearing at Hamer ing off her music ca- Hall, TheArts Centre. reer with her debut Tickets are on sale 2000 CD, On How Life now.

To tour

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 13

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Confidential Melbourne

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

PACIFIC STAR NETWORK SETTLES OVER MELBOURNE TALK RADIO

Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets

Bert out of ‘Mad Max’ ■ Melbourne’s own Bert Newton, 74 next month, has pulled out from the cast of Mad Max 4.

The sequel was to have been filmed at Broken Hill, but is now moving to Namibia in Africa.

Bert’s wife, Patti, told 3AW that she did not believe her hus● Bert Newton band would enjoy the distances that had to be travelled in Africa to the filming locations.

Instead, Bert is due to join the cast of Annie The Musical at The Regent Theatre, Melbourne, from July 24. He takes over the role of US President Franklin D Roosevelt from Sydney radio broadcaster Alan Jones.

Hinch in the Big Apple ■ Twelve months ago, radio man Derryn Hinch did not know his future. Following a liver transplant and five months’ home detention, he returns to Melbourne this week from New York - “the place I didn’t think I’d ever se again”.

■ The Victorian partner of the failed Melbourne Talk Radio project has settled with the Sydney joint venture partner, Macquarie Radio.

Pacific Star Network, which owns the 3MP 1377 licence, acquires the new state-of-the-art studios at Swan St, Richmond, as part of the settlement.

Pacific Star this month moved all its SEN 1116 and MyMP on-air operations to the new studios.

The MTR project, fronted by Steve Price, who now works for Macquarie on their Sydney station 2GB, ran for just under two years.

MTR was run by a joint venture company, Melbourne Radio Operations, which was placed into the hands of administrators.

Various complex issues and disputes arose between Pacific Star and Macquarie in connection with the joint venture, said Pacific Star Chairman Andrew Moffat.

Some of the issues wedre the subject of Supreme Court proceedings and mediation.

Mr Moffatr said the deed of company arrangement reached be-

■ Melbourne QC David Galbally (pictured) has drafted a letter that Melbourne Water customers can send to the authority, which has been refusing to immediately re-pay $300 million it has overcharged.

“To whom it concerns, “I advise I am a customer of Melbourne Water [or whichever authority is the relevant authority].

My account number is [insert details]. I have been advised that over the past three years or so I have been overcharged with respect to my water bills.

“Would you provide me within the next seven days the following: ■ Details of the amount or amounts overcharged in respect of each account rendered; ■ When you will repay the overcharged amount and at what interest rate?

“Should you not be able to repay my money within a reasonable time, I shall have no alternative but to deduct it from your future accounts together with the current overdraft interest or existing overdraft interest at the time.

“I look forward to your reply as soon as possible.

“Yours faithfully, [insert name]”

Tribute

Status lost tween the parties meant that costs, inconvenience and uncertainty of litigation would be avoided.

He said Pacific Star would be able to concentrate of the operations of 1116 SEN, Inside Fotball and MyMP. “Unsecured creditors are to receive a better return than they would receive in a winding up,” Mr Moffat said.

Those unsecured creditors included psychologist Sandy Rea ($3150), Channel 9's Robert Penfold ($1350), footballer Peter Daicos (3300), columnist Fiona Byrne ($840), commentators Alan Howe ($500) and Susie O'Brien ($400), Rita Panahi ($750),, and entertainment commentator Ian 'Molly' Meldrum ($330).

MORE CASH FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME

■ A number of Victorian associations have lost their incorporated status, Deputy Registrar David Betts has advised.

These include: Neptune Swimming Club Inc.; Cobungra Gun Club Inc.; The Mountain Bikers Social Club Inc.; FC Bulleen Lions Inc.; Australian Furry Association Inc.; The Society for the Enhancement of Education and Employment Inc.; Classics in Wartook Valley Inc.; Lake Learmouth and District Ball Committee Inc.; Gellibrand Community Garden Group Inc.; Monmia Kindergarten Inc.; Wyndham City Cycling Club Inc.; Longwood Community Centre Inc.; Nirranda South Netball Club Inc.; Allansforest Netball Club Inc.; Nirranda Netball Club Inc.; Scott Owners Club (Australian Section) Inc.; and Hume Network of Women and Men Inc. ● Turn to Page 87

Rumour Mill Hear It Here First

SHOW ME THE MONEY

Whispers

Prisoner wins cash claim

■ Nancy Guarnaccia and Alisha Zuclich have each won increased payments from the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal, Melbourne, after appealing to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Guarnaccia wil receive $50,000, and Zuclich will be paid $15,000, after their distress when daughter and sister Angela Zuclich, 13, was killed in a motor vehicle accident that occurred at Buchan, after a picnic with their father.

A fire truck careered of course and collided with the father’s van head-on. Alisha was travelling in the car behind her father’s and saw the accident happen, noted VCAT Deputy President Catherine Aird.

The driver of the fire truck was charged with three counts of dangerous driving and was sentenced to a 12month suspended term of imprisonment.

Ms Guarnaccia and Ms Zuclich had previously been awarded $10,000 each for their distress. The father was awarded $10,000.

“Ms Guarnaccia [is] clearly distraught and traumatiosed by the loss of her daughter,” Ms Aird noted.

“She told me that not a day goes by that she doesn’t think of her daughter, and that she will only be happy agin when she joins her ‘in her grave’.

“Her distress was particularly apparent when, during final submissions on behalf of the [Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal], she rushed from the hearing room and could be heard wailing in the corridor.”

■ Victorian prisoner Scott Feldmaier has won a claim against the State.

The award money, excluding legal costs and medical expenses, has been paid into the Prisoner Compensation Quarantine Fund, where it will be held for 12 months, Creditors and victims in relation to criminal acts of Scott Feldmaier are being invited to seek further information from the Secretary of the Department of Justice.

● Billy Thorpe ■ Widow Lynn Thorpe says the Hume Council is advising that the Diggers Rest tribute to her late rock-n-roll musician husband, Billy, has been refurbished after a vandalism attack.

Likes PM

● Alan Fletcher ■ Actor Alan Fletcher, who plays Dr Karl Kennedy in Neighbours, has gone online to declare his support for the Prime Minister after watching last week’s episode of Q&A (ABC1).

“Only just caught up with episode of Q&A where our PM Julia Guillard demonstrated every quality and principle that compels me to vote ALP.”

Wishes

Glass House Dept.

■ Melbourne radio man Craig Huggins went online to gently sledge Eddie McGuire apparently being in two places at once: a Collingwood footy match and hosting Millionaire on Channel 9.

One of Huggy’s Facebook mates gently chided that Craig hosts his Gold 104.3 radio show daily, and - by the magic of radio - also fronts a show on Cruise 1323Adelaide.

E-Mail: Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

● Craig Huggins

● Darryl Cotton ■ Melbourne’s showbiz fraternity is sending god wishes to entertainer Darryl Cotton who has been in hospital after being diagnosed with liver cancer.

“All future performances have been put on hold until such time that a clearer picture of his condition can be seen,” says friend Jeff Joseph.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

The Best Columnists

TRUE SURVIVORS

Through The Ranks

Our Doors are Open!

Freemasonry offers members more than an apron

■ Long-time readers will know that Long Shots thoroughly enjoys the twiceyearly ‘Survivors’ lunches for men of the TV, radio and recording industries.

Convenor Bruce McKay reminded that the group was founded by blokes including Bert Newton, Ron Tudor and John Proper, and included names such as Eddie Balmer, Norm Spencer, Joff Ellen, Frank Rich, Doug Elliot, Geoff Corke, Lewis Bennett, Peter James, Alwyn Kurts, Frank O’Brien, Arthur Lyster, Eric Pearce, Hal Todd and Doug McKenzie.

Legends

Melbourne

People Mr Gordon Charles Lewis

● Bill Armstrong with Dan Webb

Long Shots ● Geoff Thompson with Freemasons Victoria Grand Master Bob Jones Numurkah born- and raised Geoff Thompson has achieved a position few men in his local town have.

As a proud Freemason of 44 years, Geoff has held many titles but 'Past Deputy Grand Master', one of the highest offices of Freemasonry, is by far one of the most important.

"In the past, we have had two other members of this high office join us at Rupertswood Lodge, but I am the only locally-born to be a Past Deputy Grand Master," says Geoff.

At a recent meeting of Past Deputy Grand Masters at The Masonic Centre in East Melbourne, Geoff had the chance to meet and discuss Masonic matters with the current Grand Master, Bob Jones and Deputy Grand Master, Hillel Benedykt.

As a young man growing up on a farm, Geoff had a desire for social interaction that farming, he felt, excluded him from.

Geoff looked to Freemasonry first as some of his family members were Freemasons.

In 1968 at the age of 25, Geoff joined the local Lodge, Rupertswood Lodge, and quickly found what he was looking for in Freemasonry; 44 years later, he is still an active member of his Lodge and local community.

Geoff says he enjoys all aspects of Freemasonry and says he would be a very different man today if he didn't become a member of the fraternal organisation.

"In many ways Freemasonry has been the making of me as a man in the community," says Geoff.

"With its traditions and support, Freemasonry has the capacity to bring the best out of any man if they embrace it. Freemasonry transformed me from an introverted shy boy to a man who can lead committees and speak to large groups of people without fear."

As Past Deputy Grand Master, Geoff has had to do both in some capacity over the years. Geoff is also very passionate about talking to men interested in joining Freemasonry and says that there is a revival in Freemasonry.

"There has been an increase of men enquiring and I have recently been interviewing young men who have a desire to be with others with inquiring minds," says Geoff.

Over the last few years Freemasonry Victoria has experienced a resurgence of interest particularly from younger men. In the last two years around 800 new members have joined with an average age of 36 years.

Many of these men indicate they joined to seek self-development and the wish to be an integral part of Freemasons philanthropic activities.

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.

● Roy Hampson ■ Those in attendance included Roy Hampson, recovering well after open heart surgery just weeks ago.

In the absence of chairmen Ron Tudor (fall) and Bob Horsfall (family illness), BillArmstrong took the chair, and paid tribute to Graeme Bell (see P9), as did Nevill Sherburn.

The gathering included Bill Passick, Brian Smith, Mike Menner, Ted Ryan, Max Stuart with son Grant, birthday boys Hugh Hill and Philip Brady, Bill Duff, Keith Livingston, Peter Van, Neil Harrold, Nigel Dick, Gary Day, Bob Johnson, Keith McGowan, Marcus Herman, Tony Charlton, Denis Scanlan, Ray Benson, Peter Philip, Dan Webb, John Allan, Kevin Dagg, Bob Taylor and Chris Bahen. ● More on Page 81

Missing in action ■ A last-minute production problem over the Queen’s Birthday Holiday Weekend meant that the Melbourne Observer did not publish last week (June 13).

Subscriptions and advertising orders will be adjusted accordingly.

● Gordon Lewis ■ Former radio station manager Gordon Lewis has died aged 91 He passed away in Melbourne on Monday last week (June 11)..

A funeral service was held in the Le Pine Chapel, Box Hill on Friday (June 15).

Gordon was General Manager at stations including 3TR Gippsland, 6PR Perth and 2UW Sydney.

As VX72691 he served in Australian Army Intelligence. His passing is mourned by Patricia, wife of 70 years; children Peter, Sandra, David and Mark; seven grand-children, and three great-grand-children. editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au

with Ash Long, Editor “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 Thought For The Week ■ “The chief obstacle to the progress of the human race is the human race.”

- Don Marquis

Observer Curmudgeon ■ “Those who have some means think that the most important thing in the world is love. The poor know that it is money.”

- Gerald Brenan

Text For The Week ■ “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

- Proverbs 27:17

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

Former 3AW presenter Keith McGowan pays tribute to the man who gave him his first on air job at 3TR: “I first met Gordon Lewis in 1960 when I was 17 years old. We were in The Age building in Collins St and I was doing an audition for 3TR, the station he managed for the Victorian Broadcasting Network.

“I do remember how he welcomed me, and that I had no fear of him. I could not have known what a dominant role he was to play in my 54 year radio career.

“Gordon Lewis was something of a ‘Mr Fix It’ for the VBN as they moved him from 3SH to 3TR, then to open and establish GLV-10 Gippsland (Traralgon) and then across to Perth to take over and build up 6PR-TZ-CI which was a basket-case in the 1960s.

“In 1964 when I was chopped from 7HO I rang Gordon to tell him I didn't have a job. He said "Yes you have, when can you get here?"

“The four years I spent at 6PR went like flash as Lewis built the station to the dominant position it held for years.

“In the 70s I bumped into Gordon Lewis again, this time at 2UW where he held an executive position in the Albert company.

“Gordon was a true radio man, the kind that is sadly missing in our industry today.

“Away from radio, Gordon Lewis was active in the Masonic Lodge and the RSL. He loved his football as well. In his ‘bush radio days’ he was a handy caller and whilst in Perth became President of the Claremont Football Club in WAFL. “A few years ago I visited Gordon at his home, and arranged to take him into 3AW to see "what a modern day station looked like". He was like a kid again.

“You could see his eyes light up as he looked around in amazement. I understand he told so many people what a great day he had.

“Gordon Lewis passed away last week, and since his death I have spoken with his wife of 70 years. I saw Patricia at the funeral service on Friday where I will say "thank you" to a man I was so very lucky to meet.”

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

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 15

Melbourne People

Strike Bowling Launch of Melbourne Central venue

● Adam Tahiri and Anthony Licuria

● Alicia Komodromos and Michael Schreiber

● Amanda Habben, Blaise Witnish and Anna Prowse

● Eugene Loane, Samantha Livingstone and Samantha Downie

● Jordan Russell, Dennis Armfield and Rhys O'Keeffe

● Francesca Fitzgerald and Simon Osborne

● Kristen Cleal and Craig Braybrook

● Ryan Corr, Dena Kaplan and Ben Cox

Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

■ John Meillon worked in radio and theatre for many years before getting his break in the film On The Beach in 1959.

For many years after his death John Meillon was heard in the Victoria Bitter advertising campaign, his distinct voice was known to millions with the phrase "a hard earned thirst needs a big cold beer."

John Meillon was born in Mosman, Sydney in 1934 and made his stage debut at the age of 10.

In 1945 he had the lead role in a children's radio serial titled Stumpy for the ABC. He performed in his first professional stage role in The Winslow Boy at the Minerva Theatre in 1948.

John was in demand for radio work during the early 1950s acting in plays on The Caltex Theatre, The Lux Radio Theatre and many serials.

He met June Salter when they co-starred in the Philip Street revue Cross Section in 1958 and they married later that year.

Following his role in the film On The Beach John Meillon was in demand and was cast in The Sundowners working with Robert Mitchum and Deborah Kerr.

John and June went to England where they appeared in many stage, film and television productions.

Their son John Jnr was born in London in 1960. The family returned to Australia and in

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Whatever Happened To ...

John Meillon

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM 1966 John appeared in the classic Australian comedy film They're A Weird Mob. In 1968 he was cast as Wally Stiller in the television series My Name's McGooley starring opposite Gordon Chater and Judi Farr.

Gordon Chater once told me that he and John would stand together during location filming in Balmain and John would point out the "real life" McGooley's - "There's one, there's McGooley ," John would say, "right over there."

When Gordon Chater left the series John and Judi reprised their characters in Rita And Wally which ran for another year.

John played the character of Nimble Norris in several episodes of Skippy. John and June Salter divorced in 1971.

● John Meillon The following year John married actress Bunny Gibson and they also had a son. Bunny was ‘Rita the Eta Eater’ in the television commercials and now runs a costume shop on Sydney's North Shore.

John made some wonderful films in the early seventies with great characters in The Cars That

Ate Paris, Walkabout and Wake In Fright.

John won the AFI Best Actor Award in 1977 for his portrayal of the father whose son is dying from cancer in The Fourth Wish.

I loved him in The Picture Show Man where he sang a duet with his old pal John Ewart.

In 1979 John was awarded an OBE for his services to the entertainment industry.

One of his best roles came in 1983 when he played Sir John Kerr in the television miniseries The Dismissal.

He is probably best remembered globally for his portrayal of Walter Reilly in the two Crocodile Dundee films in some great scenes with Paul Hogan, John died at home in 1989 from a liver disease at the age of 55. His funeral service was attended by over 200 family, friends and colleagues.

John's favourite Frank Sinatra songs were played at the funeral service.

I never met John Meillon but I did meet the late June Salter at a Capers Theatre Restaurant show many years ago.

- Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce & Phil Sundays at 8.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12 Noon.

96.5FM is streaming on the internet.

To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and follow the prompts.

BIG WELCOME TO COOBER PEDY

■ Well, I squired prize winners Jim and Leeann Peterson around Coober Pedy, and a good time was had by all!

Of course, when in Rome ... so I took them out to my opal claim to try their luck.

I often took radio couple Keith and Angie McGowan out there to scratch about - Angie was keen, but Keith not so enthusiastic!

So I armed them each with a pick, and pointed out a seam of opal ‘potch’, which is opal with no colour, and hence no value.

About 90 per cent of all opal found is in this form, but it can turn to colour at any time.

‘Precious’ opal, as it is termed, can be worth up to $20,000 an ounce. I have unearthed a few good bits out there.

I have taken many visitors and friends to my claim - some get bored after a few minutes of perfunctory picking; others become greed-ridden and stay for hours seeking their first million!

Leeann was quite enthusiastic for a while, but the swarms of buzzing flies dampened her ardour.

Jim, however, was picking away like a man possessed!

Alas, just plenty of potch.

■ We also visited my friends Rosie and Jim, who operate ‘Tom's Working Mine’ to show tourists how it all works.

Once opal mining just required a heavy ‘sinking pick’, which enabled the miner to dig a vertical hole, known as a shaft.

As he dug further, the mullock was deposited on the surface via a bucket and a hand winding windlass.

When the appropriate ‘level’, an ancient sea-bed, had been reached, a smaller pick would be used, and a horizontal burrow, known as a ‘drive’, would be excavated.

Opal always forms in this strata, so the miner can strike a seam at any time.

These days machines perform all this work, so Jimmy shows how this works, But, the surprise of this visit was an impromptu concert. A young German lady, Chloe, offered to put on an underground musical show after lunch. So we trotted back at the appointed hour to be part of the audience.

I have learned never to be sur-

The Outback Legend

with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au prised at anything I may encounter in Coober Pedy.

Chloe unloaded her instrument, lugged it into the mine, and proceeded to entertain us with her haunting, if deafening, melodies.

The only bagpipe concert I've ever attended!

There is a quiet peacefulness any where underground - I always suggest a visitor spend at least one night thus.

But there is also a mystery venue.

I've often seen the sign when I've been driving out to my claim, but have never investigated.

Jim asked me about it, so we decided to investigate.

"The only one in the world - Riba's Underground Camping"!

You just walk through into the expansive excavated tunnels, and there you are.

Y ou then unfold you tent, or unroll your swag, hammer the pegs in, and you're home!

And no wind and no rain!

■ I was wrong! On the last trip I reported that the migrating caravanners were "getting the message" and joining in with the Outback fraternity. No such luck.

I have previously mentioned that motorists in the Australian bush always acknowledge each other with a wave as they pass each other. Just a little cocked finger suffices.

This has always meant a lot in the back blocks. It indicates a certain camaraderie, an acceptance, a friendliness, a welcome. And above all, a sense of genuine Australian Outback egalitarianism. No high-fallutin' pretensions out here!

All that with just a little wave.

I thought that the Grey Nomads were catching on.

I passed van after van after van, at one stage 10 in a row, with the driver grimly gripping his steering wheel, nose either cocked in the air, or looking down it with a haughty air, ignoring me.

After my invitation to friendliness and camaraderie is ignored, I feel like responding: "you can stick your caravan and your snobby southern snootiness right - - -! Just like some southerners "don't suffer fools gladly", we don't suffer pretensions up here!

But then I think I'm being a bit harsh!

I've got plenty of mates who head north each winter, and they're not too snotty - well, most of them!

And then the 11th van will approach and give me a hearty wave, so I feel a lot better!

■ For the tourist visiting Coober Pedy there are many accommodation options, as in most tourist destinations.

However, Coober Pedy's accommodations are a little more expansive and imaginative!

There is a normal garden variety two-storey traditional motel.

And the ‘Mud Hut’, with its local compacted sand walls. Very comfortable and tasteful.

And a couple of camping/caravan/ cabin parks.

These are all above ground.

But, where Coober Pedy differs from, for example, Rosebud, there are also underground options, about six in all.

From backpackers' dormatories ■ Granted there are many sedans, with their ablution blocks, through to often hire-cars, but everything else the five-star ‘Desert Cave’. gets a look-in.

● Coober Pedy I have often encountered what seems to be half the ADF on the move up to Darwin.

A whole flotilla, complete with ambulances, hospitally-type vehicles,

what us kids used to call Blits-bug ies, low loaders with huge tanks, and armoured vehicles with about 50 tyres.

Then the converted buses towing their little Suzuki 4x4's behind, with some pithy epithet on the destination board up front where ‘St. Kilda Depot’ once resided. Now it's: ‘Adventure Before Dementia’.

I've even seen a few bearded bushies in elaborate carriages, drawn along by a camel or two. This is fine until they reach a cattle grid, when they need to unhook everything and walk the beasts through the gate in the fence beside the road.

Then the intrepid motorcyclists, either freezing or boiling as they roar down the road.

But then, and they're always there, the most intrepid - or stupid - of all. It seems that in certain circles it's a big deal to ride a pushbike from Port Augusta to Darwin.

Not in my circle!

- Nick Le Souef ‘The Outback Legend’

From The Outer

Melbourne

Observer

kojak@ mmnet.com.au

With John Pasquarelli

■ Kathy Jackson of the HSU has committed unspeakable high treason against the union movement by speaking to the H. R. Nicholls Society despite all sorts of threats against her not to do so.

The FWA, HSU and the Craig Thomson sagas raise serious questions about the activities of certain unions dating back to pre-WWI days when my paternal grandfather Luigi, blue-eyed and reddish haired from Northern Italy was threatened and hindered from getting to his cane cutting jobs by AWU thugs because Italians on the cane fields were regarded as 'black' labour due to the swarthiness of Southern Italians.

An Abbott Government will have a huge workload to repair the mess that Gillard will leave this country in and serious consideration will have to be given to a Royal Commission into the union movement.

There are many unanswered questions about Gillard's ex-boyfriend Bruce Morton Wilson who was allegedly milking funds from the AWU in Victoria in the mid 1990s and the whistleblowers were none other than Ian Cambridge - now on FWA and Labor kingmaker Bill Ludwig.

Cambridge's 48-page affidavit is an eye opener but the media and the Libs don't seem to know what to do. Another whistleblower was allegedly almost kicked to death.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 17

Melbourne

Observer Life & Style

News Briefs

HAPPY AND GLORIOUS

1900 jobs

■ This month my life was full of highs and lows – highs, because as a committed Royalist, I was looking forward to the Queens Jubilee Celebrations and lows because of the insanity of Telstra.

My sister was in the Canberra Private Hospital having heart surgery. I was naturally concerned and tried to phone her, but the only answer I received was a message from Telstra telling me to phone a 13 number.

And that’s when the madness began.

It appears that I can only use my phone for local calls, and it did no good telling the nudnick from the technical department that I had been phoning all over Australia and overseas all week.

Asking me to hold on for a minute I was then put onto the call centre in the Philippines, and that’s when I realised that I was in noddyland.

It all became bizarre from then on.

Yvonne’s Column

Crowd showed support

Mind-bending

■ I was told that the floods in Australia caused the problem and the water was in the lines outside my house.

When I asked to speak to someone who spoke English as a first language, I was told indignantly that he spoke English. I couldn’t help but tell him that he has to understand the language too.

Two hours later I hung up with much gnashing of my teeth.

To be fair, my Philippine ‘expert’ rang me back and said that a technician would be at my house at 8am on Friday to sort out the problem.

So I was on a real downer, but knew that come the morrow I would be transported into mind-bending highs with the celebrations of Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee.

Imagine, four whole days of pomp and ceremony with traditions going back hundreds of years.

Pomp and circumstance

■ The Brits really know how to put on a celebration where the entire nation comes together to show their love and respect for their Queen. I don’t think that such a celebration of this magnitude could happen anywhere else in the world.

Tens of thousands of flag-waving people stood wall to wall in the London streets in rain and freezing winds all wanting to show their respect and love for their Monarch.

I loved to see all the street parties with everyone uniting. I wonder if it could happen here in Australia.

Australia doesn’t really seem the place for street parties; we are more a nation for holding back yard barbecues?

Melbourne

Observer

How could you not be filled with awe at the Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral. I did not blink when the choir was singing, such was the beauty of it all, and I didn’t want to miss one minute of it.

It was such a shame that Prince Philip was taken to hospital and couldn’t be part of the service.

with Yvonne Lawrence yvonne.lawrence@bigpond.com

This tiny woman who holds a nation together was something to behold.

The royal barge where the Queen and Prince Philip stood for over three hours as the flotilla of a thousand boats proceeded along the River Thames to Tower Bridge became a talking point.

Best possible view ■ I was feeling the strain for her and wishing that she would at least sit down. But she and the Duke were stoic in their desire to give everyone the best possible view of them knowing that many people had slept out all night in the cold to get the best possible position.

The British people would have been reminded of the miracle of Dunkirk, code-named Operation Dynamo by the British as a thousand boats sailed down the Thames.

The same thing happened during the war with the evacuation of Allied soldiers trapped on the beaches in Dunkirk in 1940.

I bet that many who took their small craft to Dunkirk and were paying respect to Her Majesty in the same small craft, shed a tear remembering the sheer enormity of what they had done.

■ The young Royals rallied around the Queen, which I’m sure were a great support to her.

How lovely it was to see the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall sitting with the Queen in the coach.

All was forgiven and the crowd showed their support.

Following the lunch at Westminster Hall, the Royal party travelled along a processional route by carriage to Buckingham Palace for the traditional balcony scene.

The fly-by brought a big smile from the Queen. Such precision flying by the pilots was something to behold.

I particularly enjoyed the historical film clips of the abdication of her uncle which placed her in line to the throne.

In fact I simply loved the entire four days of the celebrations, although by the fifth day I was rather bleary eyed. I didn’t want to miss a minute.

Hopefully, the Republican Movement won’t rear its head until our Queen dies, and hopefully that won’t be for many many years.

■ The Age newspaper will become a tabloid (‘compact’) on March 4 next year, and its owner Fairfax Media will shed 1900 jobs. The Age printing plant at Tullamarine will be closed by June 2014.

A paywall will come into effect at the company’s websites. "(If) metro print advertising and circulation revenue declines materially (then Fairfax could) transition to a digital only model,'' said a document lodged with the Australian Stock Exchange.

Olivia talks

Magnificent spectacle ■ The putting together for such a celebration was a mammoth effort and took years in the planning. Nothing appeared to go wrong: not one little craft needed help, and the rain unfurled hundreds of red, white and blue umbrellas from the cheering crowds.

It was easy to see how the British people coped with the bombing, food rationing and sadness during the blitz and still kept their sense of humour.

The horses were simply magnificent and the riders in their traditional uniforms glowed in the rain. Some of the uniforms we saw were hundreds of years old, and would have been handled with much care.

As I said before, only the British could have staged such a celebration without one apparent hitch. I’m sure there were a few, but none that the public saw.

Nothing marred the four days – not even the rain.

The resilience of the Queen amazes me.

Thank you Your Majesty for 60 years of dedicated service and four glorious days of television.

- Yvonne Contact: Melbourne Observer.

P.O, Box 1278, Research 3095

● Olivia Newton-John ■ More than 400 guests heard Olivia Newton-John and Sam Stynes speak at a Rotary Club of Brighton fundraiser at the ONJ Wellness Centre at the Austin Hospital on Friday (June 15).

Di Rolle’s Column

Sharing stories over a nice cup of tea ■ My Mother has taught me well and that is to be passionate. She is a passionate football supporter and a passionate lover of life. I love visiting her and where once we would go out and have lunch and a few drinks, these days we sit and drink tea and I listen to her stories of the past.

She always - in her 90th year - ends her stories with ….well that was the past! It’s always moving to be with Mum these days and hear her stories.

And there is nothing better than a cup of tea to have with those stories.

Sometimes it just better than a drink of alcohol. We Aussies like a drink but sometimes it may be too much.

They say on average one out of three people lie when the doctor asks them how much they drink.

Georgia Foster, a Melburnian, is an author and therapist who has been helping people drink less alcohol very successfully for over 19 years in the UK. Georgia believes it is your thinking not your drinking that is the problem. People drink as a stress management tool, to aid social and sexual confidence as well as supressing anxiety.

Some people use alcohol to help them sleep. There are many reasons why people drink too much, so if you are secretly worried about your overconsumption Georgia is now working her magic with her on-line 21-day Drink Less Mind program. www.howtodrinkless.com/ I actually did this and the results are astounding.

● From Page 12

Beach Boys tour ■ “That’s the lingering impression from Tuesday night’s Beacon Theater concert by the reunited Beach Boys…” said The New York Times “Over 50 years, the Beach Boys gave a lot to their fans. And those fans gave a lot back. This theater event was a concert of a lifetime,” said the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette “The harmonies that have set the Beach Boys apart from other bands for the past five decades are still strong, tight and beautiful,” reported the Press of Atlantic City “Nobody owns harmonies in rock music like The Beach Boys. Not The Beatles, not Crosby Stills and Nash, not Fleet Foxes. Nobody.” said NPR/ All Songs Considered Not bad hey for a group that a lot of people myself included didn’t think we would see together again – ever!

Beach Boys Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, Bruce Johnston and David Marks recently completed their recording sessions at Los Angeles Ocean Way Studios for That’s Why God Made The Radio which is released this week through Capitol/ EMI.

It is the band’s 29th studio album (including 2011’s The SMiLE Sessions), the first in decades to feature all of the band’s surviving original members.

Produced by Brian Wilson and executive produced by Mike Love, the album’s 11 new songs illustrate The Beach Boys’ unique and evocative West Coast story with the band’s timeless signature sound.

The album’s lead single, That’s Why God Made The Radio, showcases The Beach Boys’ soaring harmonies in an upbeat, beaming ode to music’s radio champions around the world.

The Beach Boys and Capitol/EMI have also teamed up for a 50th Anniversary campaign spotlighting the band’s entire catalog, with several new commemorative releases planned for 2012, including a new hits collection and a career-spanning box set.

For five decades, America’s first pop band to reach the 50 year milestone has recorded and performed the music that has become the world’s favorite soundtrack to summer.

Founded in Hawthorne, California in 1961, The Beach Boys were originally comprised of the three teenaged Wilson brothers: Brian, Carl and

Dennis, their cousin Mike Love, and school friend Al Jardine.

In 1962, neighbour David Marks joined the group for their first wave of hits with Capitol Records, leaving in late 1963, and in 1965, Bruce Johnston joined the band when Brian Wilson retired from touring to focus on writing and producing for the group.

The Beach Boys signed with Capitol Records in July 1962 and released their first album, Surfin’ Safari, that same year.

The album spent 37 weeks on the Billboard chart, launching the young group known for its shimmering vocal harmonies and relaxed California style into international stardom.

The Wilson/Love collaboration resulted in many huge international chart hits, and under Brian Wilson’s musical leadership, the band’s initial surf-rock focus was soon broadened to include other themes, making The Beach Boys America’s preeminent band of the 1960s.

The Beach Boys are an American institution that is iconic around the world.

Tickets are on sale from www.ticketek.com.au or 132 849More news - Di Rolle

Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Melbourne

Observer Open Mike

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Mike McColl Jones writes about his lifelong friend Philip Brady

PHILIP BRADY: BUTT OF JOKES, MOST OF THEM MINE

■ If I didn't know Philip Brady as well as I do, I might have resorted to Dr Google to gain some information about him.

So, I did Google Philip Brady, and I found some very fascinating Philip Bradys from around the world.

Did you know there is a Phillip Brady who was a former Assistant to George Bush (Snr), the President of the United States?

There is another Phillip Brady who is an Irish politician, Another who runs PBRecruitment in Ireland, Another who has ‘Brady's Clock Repairs’ in the UK (he specialises in Bird Box Restoration), A Doctor Phillip Brady who lives in Offaly, Ireland, and Philip Brady Jnr who is in real estate in New York.

But, we in Australia, particularly in Melbourne, know there is only one Philip Brady, aka ‘Dimples’, aka ‘Knucks’, aka ‘The Flipper’, and many other names that can't be repeated in a family newspaper.

Philip Brady was born on June the 16, 1941, which makes him a Gemini - but doesn't necessarily make him an entertainer!

I first met Philip when I was about 8 years old. He was a patient of my Grandfather, who was a dentist in Church St, Richmond.

I vividly remember meeting him as he sat on a pouffee in the waiting room.

(And, by the way Philip. The family would like the pouffee back!).

I smoked my first cigarette with Philip, under the Hawthorn Bridge in Bridge Rd, Richmond.

It was a packet of Player's cigarettes, which Philip bought, and I might point out was the last packet of cigarettes he ever paid for.

We both went to Xavier College where I rowed, played footy and tennis. Philip did needlework, crochet and cooking!

We both went on to complete our studies, and I must say, Philip was a brilliant student.

He had qualifications that would be the envy of any person starting off in the world of commerce, but he chose television.

In fact, Philip went straight from school to GTV-9. He commenced work at Channel 9 on Good Friday, 1958.

Unfortunately, my brain-power was nowhere like Philip's so I had a variety of jobs before I started in TV. Philip was one of a few people who encouraged my writing, and eventually I got to write for Graham on a month's trial.

So, all of a sudden, this ‘lad’ who used to sit on my Grandfather's pouffee was a work-mate ... and as a result, ‘The Philip Brady’ joke was born.

As all comedy has to have conflict, the recipe was great ... Graham Kennedy was a protestant, Philip a ‘Mick’.

Graham drank G&T's and fine wines, Philip had Fanta, Graham was a man-of-the-world and Philip was naïve.

Perfect!

No doubt, you would all have realised by now that Philip loves a bit of publicity.

If restraint were a disease in epidemic proportions, Philip couldn't catch it.

His Holiness the Pope doesn't visit Australia very often, simply because he knows that at any stage of his tour,

● Close mates for more than 60 years: Philip Brady and Mike McColl Jones he could easily be wiped off the front himself from the cocktail party in the Wendy Sharp - and she was as safe page by one of Philip's publicity stunts. room next to the ball-room, sneak into as Fort Knox!

Here is a selection of Philip Brady the main room, find his table which As well as this segment, Philip headlines from over the years…. was usually 86 or something. Take his would also share several live commername-card off the table and swap it cials with Graham during the week, "PHILIPSWIMS INAMAZON with someone who was on a table particularly the Australian Women's WHILE PIRANAHS closer to the stage.

Weekly.

CIRCLE HIM".

He got away with that for two years I used to have a lot of fun with (proves even piranhas have taste!). until he was caught red-handed by the Philip doing live commercials ... I reManaging Director of Southdown member the first night of a huge spend "BRADY UPSETS MAFIA Press, Brian Morris.

by Hoover for their vacuum cleaners.

IN VEGAS".

I remember I was out with GraThe boardroom was filled with ham one night at the New 20's’, a night ‘heavies’ from Nine and Hoover, and "PHILIPTO BECOMEA club in Chapel St, Windsor. the plan was to have Philip on the PRIEST".

We were driving back to the city other side of the studio demonstrate (Graham was living at the Southern how the new Hoover could suck all "PHILIP. SCARED OF LOVE!". Cross at the time because his house in the rubbish off the carpet on the floor.

Frankston had burnt down).

Graham gave this new Hoover "I'M NOT THE VILLAGE Graham asked me to pull over be- product a huge build-up, talking up the IDIOT!". (Wanna bet?). cause he wanted to ask me something. cleaner as being the world's best at I did and he did. getting rid of the dirt etc, and then said "PHILIP BRADY IN LOVE".

He said that he was worried about "Here is Philip Brady to demonworking with Geoff Corke. "There strate".

"POUFFEEVANISHES FROM didn't seem to be much chemistry anyWith a broad smile and a flourish DENTIST'S WAITING ROOM". more", he said. "Who else could we Philip turned the cleaner on and ... it use?". blew the stuff everywhere!

"PHILIP BUMPS TROLLEYS Bert was away sick at this time, Unknown to Philip, and known only WITHANN-MARGARETIN and Graham desperately needed to Graham, I had switched the maHOLLYWOOD SUPERMARKET". someone to "bounce off" - a "second chine on to ‘blow’ instead of ‘suck’. banana".

As I remember, we were in trouble "BRADY FINDS FUNNEL-WEB I said "You're probably going to belt for a little while but then the sales figSPIDER IN HIS UNDERPANTS". me, but what about Philip?". ures started to come in - it had a huge (Spare a thought for the poor He almost threw up, but he thought sales lift. spider!). about it and came back to me the folSuch was the power of live comlowing week and said "Can you write mercials in those days.

There wouldn't be many people a ‘Fact of the Week’ (From the We never measured success with who have sold more copies of TV Guinness Book of Records) and we'll focus groups or the like, our baromWeek, TV-Scene, Listener In TV etc talk about Philip's weekend. eter was the empty shelves in retail than Philip over the years.

We did and it ran for a few years, outlets the day after the show.

When TV Week decided to bring every Monday night.

Another night, Philip was doing a their top guest stars to the Logies in We ‘built the segment’, added the serious piece to camera, a poem from open luxury cars, Philip was way Cinemascope theme for the ‘Fact of memory. He was reading it off ‘idiot ahead of the organisers. the Week’, and the show usually got sheets’ (written on large cards held by He would get in the car, arrive at about 10 minutes of good laughs from the Floor Manager, slightly off-camthe Southern Cross Hotel, get out, the ‘spot’. era). rush through the foyer, down the esPhilip negotiated pages 1, 2 and 3 Philip's weekends would always calators, across the car-park and get be ‘el cheapo’. very well, but as the Floor Manager into another open car.

Venues like a rehearsal of an ama- turned to card number 4, to Philip's One year he arrived at the entrance teur concert, a visit to the Botanic horror, he saw that it and the rest of FOUR times. A drunk in the crowd Gardens, attending a school fete etc the cards were all written in Chinese swore off drink for life when he kept ... never anywhere where Philip's Graham was in on the gag so he seeing Philip arrive. claw would have to get near his pocket. had the camera point to the cards, and Another year, Philip would excuse His date was Graham's secretary, we all had a good laugh - even Philip

- eventually.

Philip also appeared in The Wilson's. A long-running sketch Graham did with Rosie Sturgess. "That was a joke Joyce!".

Philip occasionally appeared as a Catholic priest - Father O'Malley.

Philip is great comedy fodder. Everything he does, can be joked about in fact, sometimes we say "enough" let's have a rest.

Philip's trips overseas are legendary. There isn't a country on earth he hasn't been to.

In fact, he's been to countries that don't have people yet.

I remember a post card I received from him on his first trip to New York.

He wrote "Am travelling through Harlem in a bus and people are throwing rocks at the windows - and they don't even know me!".

On one occasion, Philip went overseas for a month, and during that time I contacted everyone I knew in a senior position to ring and leave a message on Philip's brand new answerphone.

The messages ranged from free cars, complimentary airline trips, job offers from radio and TV stations, public appearance offers, and they all expired a week before Philip returned home.

He listened to every one of them. I know he did, because I got his phone call soon afterwards.

Philip set new standards for ‘souveniring’.

He's the only one I know who has a plastic shower curtain at home, marked ‘Holiday Inn - Hollywood’.

You could walk around Kew and tell where Philip had ‘struck’.

The tell-tale signed fan photo, pictured with his dog and his bird in the window or on the wall.

When Philip's bird ‘Tweetie’ flew away into the wide blue yonder I had to be very careful. He was really attached to his bird - as he is to his current dog and ‘Tweetie Mark 2’.

I said to him soon after the bird vanished, "Philip, I think I've found the bird ... you're welcome to have the other half of the pie".

Yes, I know it's offensive, but I've made a career out of offending people.

Philip is a delight to know…yes, we have clashed swords a few times.

On one occasion I picked up a copy of TV Times.

The headline said "Star Sues TV Writer".

I was flying to Sydney so I thought this would be a good read on the flight up.

I opened it up and it was Philip suing - me!

I wanted to tell people about it but I was five miles up in the air.

Anyway, we overcame all that, and I went on to write many more Philip Brady jokes.

Philip's name to this day is still at the forefront of Australian show-business.

Quite seriously, Philip Brady is ‘one of a kind’!.

Philip is a thoroughly decent human being. He does a lot of things for a lot of people - most unheralded.

He has been the butt of many jokes, most of them, mine, ..yet he keeps coming back for more, and why not it helps the contra!

Many many people respect and love him very much, including me.

Philip - you can keep the bloody pouffee!

WWW.MELBOURNEOBSERVER.COM.AU

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 19

Starting next week in the Observer

Free 7-Day TV Program Guide Liftout

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Page 20 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Observer Readers’ Club Readers’ Letters ■ Observer reader Elizabeth of Malvern phoned to say that she recognised the photo of Flinders Pier published in the newspaper’s Victoria Pictorial feature. Elizabeth said on the cliff-face was the old cable house belonging to Ma Chidgley.

■ Observer reader H A Cowan of Frankston, who receives a subscription mailed copy each week, says: “The envelopes are seldom stamped, and I have 56 60-cent stamps not stamped. Admittedly I have given quite a few away. One friend did not thinlk they could use them so we asked our local Post Ofice and she said we could!

“If you don’t want them, can you send them to the RSPCA? I do not want them. I am 83 and don’t send cards to anyone.”

■ Betty Jefrey of Glenbhurn writes: “(Husband) Ray and I went to see a matinee performance of Oliver at Whitehorse Theatre. We were there as guests of Martin Spottiswood who played the role of Mr Bumble.

“The first people I saw as I entered the foyer were Barbara Guttridge and Elaine White of the Yea district). Apparently the Yea Probus Club were there. I couldn’t believe my eyes.

“It was a wonderful production and very professional. I see under acknowledgements, one to Cheryl Threadgold/Melbourne Observer.”

Melbourne Photo Flashback

IN PRINT: Read the Melbourne Observer every week.

Buy at your newsagent, or by mail subscription.

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Reader Recipes

Word Of The Week

■ Pauciloquent (adj.): Uttering few words; brief in speech.

Trivia Challenge ■ When was Queen Elizabeth born> Was it: (a) June 11, 1925; (b) April 21, 1926; or (c) March 12, 1926.

Join in our chat

● Cannoli Shells 4 cups sifted all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons butter, softened

Answer:A. April 21, 1926.

Your Stars with Christina La Cross Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 20) Arguments turn to passion if you have your way. Make sure you've said you're sorry and not just whispered it, or you could end up with egg on your face when the passion begins to fade.

Taurus (Apr 21 - May 21) Peace talks with family help to build a much better foundation. You're no longer doing what looks right but what feels right and your close ones finally feel as if they're getting the real you.

Gemini (May 22 - June 21) You're beginning to focus on what and who is really important to you. This could see you distancing yourself from someone who thought they were about to become a major part of your future.

Cancer (June 22 - July 23) Your thinking is clearer than it's been in days. This is largely due to the fact that you're finally doing what looks right, not just what feels right. Time to deal with you know who then.

Leo (July 24 - Aug 23) You think you have to tell lies when the opposite is true Leo. It is the truth which will earn you the best supporters. Your ruling planet the Sun helps you to find an unexpected attraction.

Virgo (Aug 24 - Sept 23) Don't feel that you have to tell everyone everything there is to know about your past.

Sometimes is it good to leave a little bit to the imagination Virgo. Time spent on career matters brings success.

Libra (Sept 24 - Oct 23) New relationships go well at this time. Why? Because you're finally being you and not acting as others expect you to.Foreign names and places promise an exciting and life changing month ahead.

Scorpio (Oct 24 - Nov 22) The best career advice you can give a close one is to ask them what they enjoy doing, then to find someone to pay them for doing it. You could of course always take this advice yourself.

Sagittarius (Nov 23 - Dec 21) Don't make too rash a judgement on a new face. Not all is as it seems. It's clear from the current line up that you'll be tempted to over react in the coming days. Calm brings clarity.

Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 20) Bravery is essential at this time. By putting your heart on the line you can make life all you'd dreamed and more. Don't flirt with an ex. They weren't and never will be right for you.

Aquarius (Jan 21 - Feb 19) Looking on the bright side of life never robbed anyone of their eyesight. It's come time to make peace with your enemies. You're not the kind of sign who likes to hold a grudge. Don't start now.

Pisces (Feb 20 - March 20) Mars makes it hard for you not to say how you feel to those you meet today. Try to keep at least a little tact to the fore or you could be cast in a heartless light.

Reader Recipes 2 egg yolks 3/4 cup white wine shortening, for frying Filling 4 cups whole milk ricotta cheese 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/3 cup finely chopped maraschino cherry 1/4 cup semisweet mini chocolate chips 1 cup heavy whipping cream, optional Directions: . To make shells, mix flour, sugar and salt in a bowl.

2. Cut in butter.

3. Add egg yolks; stir with a fork.

4. Stir in wine, 1 tablespooon at a time, with a fork until dough clings together.

5. Form a ball with the dough and let stand for 30 minutes.

6. Roll dough almost paper thin, on a well-floured surface.

7. Using the rim of a margarita glass (about 3-4 inches across), make circle imprints into rolled dough.

8. Using a paring knife, make sure circles are cut all the way through.

9. Roll each circle of dough around a metal cannoli tube, overlaping the ends and press to seal, flaring out the edges slightly.

10. Fry one or two at a time in hot melted shortening (about 360°F) for approximately 1 minute, turning to brown all sides.

11. Remove from hot grease and drain on paper towels, seam side down.

12. Let cool a minute or two before trying to remove metal tube.

13. To remove the tube hold cannoli shell down on the paper towel and carefully slide the tube out one end.

14. Leave cannoil shells on paper towel, seam side down to cool completely.

15. Note: Shells can be stored in airtight containers and made several days prior to filling.

16. For filling, drain ricotta cheese over cheesecloth if ricotta is watery.

17. Combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until combined.

1. Squeeze Maraschino cherries with paper towels to remove all liquid.

19. (If you don't squeeze them well, you will have a pink water filling!).

20, Stir in cherries and chocolate chips into the ricotta mixture, being careful not to over mix.

2. For a lighter filling, you may whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream to form stiff peaks, and fold into filling mixture at this step.

22. Chill filling for about 30 minutes before piping into cooled cannoli shells.

2. You may garnish the cannoli by sprinkling powdered sugar on top.

24. Whipped cream, a cherry, and shaved chocolate can also be used to garnish the top.

25. Keep refrigerated until time of serving.

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

Bumper Sticker ■ Spotted in Bonwick St, Fawkner: “Some people bring happiness wherever they go. You bring happiness whenever you go.”

Birthdays/Celebrations ■ Wednesday, June 20. Nicole Kidman was born in Honululu in 1947 (45).

■ Thursday, June 21. We remember Australian boxer Lionel Rose who was born in 1948; he was aged 62 when he died last year. Singer John Paul Young is 62; JPY was born in Scotland. Racing driver Craig Lowndes was born in 1974 (38). Happy birthday to Angela McGowan.

Observer reader Maureen Sutherland of Melton South celebrates today.

■ Friday, June 22. Doctor Peter Larkins was born in Geelong in 1954 (58). TV sports commentator Bruce McAvaney was born in South Australia in 1953 (59).

■ Saturday, June 23. Diana Trask was born in Warburton in 1940 (73). Singer and actress Geraldine Turner was born in Brisbane in 1950 (62). Swimmer Rob Woodhouse was born in 1966 (46). Singer Joel Edgerton was born in Melbourne in 1974 (38).

■ Sunday, June 24. Athlete Raylene Boyle is 65; she was born in Coburg in 1947. Footballer Michael Tuck was born in Berwick in 1953 (59).

Swimmer and sports presenter Nicole Livingstone was born in Melbourne in 1971 (41).

Happy birthday to Observer reader Ken Silsom od Drouin. Birthday honours also go to Melbourne recording industry man Bill Armstrong who is 83.

■ Monday, June 25. Athlete Judy Pollock was born in Melbourne in 1940 (72).

■ Tuesday, June 26. Singer Marcie Jones was born in Coburg in 1945 (67). Observer reader Barbara Waterfang of Frankston South is 72.

Cheerios ■ A special cheerio to Melbourne actor-director Nicki Wendt.

■ On the hospital list: Darryl Cotton is in our thoughts.

■ Hello to Keith and Angela McGowan, reading this on their way to Magnetic Island.

Observer Readers

■ We regret to advise of the passing of longtime Observer subscriber, Mrs L J Brown, of Macleod. Sympathy is extended to her daughter, Sharyn Niclasen of Briar Hill, and the Brown family.

■ We welcome Mrs M Leary of Macleod, as an Observer subscriber.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 21

Buying Guide

Page 22 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

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Buying Guide

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 23

Buying Guide

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Page 24 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Buying Guide

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 25

Craft

Angel Starshine Silk Scarf, available as kit only, price is $38.45 (this includes p&h with Aust), alternative colour choices available on Website.

Hearts and Flowers Patchwork Baby Blanket, available as kit only, priced at $68.50 (includes P & H within Aust).

Please check website, www.woolshed.com.au, for other blanket kits and products, or ring Woolshed @ Manuka: 02 6295 0061

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Page 26 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Buying Guide

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 27

Buying Guide

Wicker Outdoor Furniture - Artificial Flowers, Garden Decorations & Giftware Sales Bring this ad to receive a free gift on purchase over $500 Competitive prices. Wide Range.

Importer Direct To The Public

Mystic Dragon Imports Factory 3/227 Princes Hwy, Hallam Opening Hours: Weekends 10am-4pm Weekdays by appointment

0408 052 882

Page 28 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Melbourne Seniors News

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 29

Melbourne Seniors News

Twins Parks Village Boutique Retirement Living in Preston

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

Page 30 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

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Melbourne Seniors News

W: www.goldcarelifestylevillage.com.au Goldcare Pakenham Lifestyle Village www.goldcare.net.au Add: 100 Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham 3810

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 31

Melbourne Homemaker

Page 32 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Melbourne Homemaker

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 33

Advertising Feature

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Page 34 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Melbourne Homemaker

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012 - Page 35

Melbourne Homemaker

Valid until July 4, 2012

Page 36 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Melbourne Homemaker

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