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NEWS ★ SHOWBIZ ★ LIFESTYLE ★ TRAVEL ★ FEATURES ★ BARGAINS ★ SPORT

STATE EDITION Vol 45 No 1539 SERVING VICTORIA SINCE 1969 Ph 1-800 231 311 Fx 1-800 231 312

Melbourne

PAGES

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2013 www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

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■ Bobby Bright launched his new EP, Child Of Rock, at the Memo Theatre, St Kilda.

Vanessa Allan’s page of photos are on Page 126.

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VICTORIA’S INDEPENDENT WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer Advertising Press+Online+Google+SocialMedia+Editorial Advertisers’ Index References to ‘Trader’ denote the 80-page liftout in the centre of this edition About Myself ..................... Trader P69 JMR Australia .................... Trader P72 Acu-Light ................................... P113 Kohnke’s Own ............................. P112 Adele Video Production ........ Trader P66 KristalBond ....................... Trader P14 All 4 Paws and Claws La Grande, Gold Coast ....... Trader P76 Pet Resort ....................... Trader P7 Life Be In it ....................... Trader P35 Amiga Engineering .............. Trader P61 Lilly Jack ........................... Trader P75 Armor Antiques ................... Trader P6 Lifestyle Awnings ................ Trader P31 Astratex ............................. Trader P29 Londrigan Beef & Lamb ...... Trader P33 Australian IT Support ........... Trader P38 Lunar Lighting ................... Trader P71 Australia Wide First Aid ........ Trader P3 Maeburn Cottages ............. Trader P65 Backyard Buyers ................. Trader P27 Maroondah Sports Club ..... Trader P56 Barry MCVilly ............................. P131 Maryborough ....................... Trader P1 Beach Street Apartments ..... Trader P59 Mattresses Galore ............. Trader P40 Birdsall Leather & Craft ..............., P114 MCVilly Timber .................. Trader P54 Bonn Accord ............................. P133 Melbourne Boulevard Pharmacy Braemac Energy .................. Trader P8 and Health Foods ........... Trader P34 Broome Beach Resort ......... Trader P78 Metro Boronia ........................... P135 Camille Shoes .............................. P5 Michael’s Trailers .............. Trader P48 Cascade Garden Holiday Mokutu, Norfolk Island ........ Trader P17 Apartments ................... Trader P13 Morley Park Stud ....................... P115 Classic Bloodstock ......................

Mr Sleepyman ................... Trader P74 P110 One Stop Caravan Shop ....... Trader P2 Club Fiji Resort ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Trader P16 Out Riding ................................. P115 Club Hawthorn .................. Trader P39 OzSpy Security Solutions .... Trader P41 Coolum Baywatch Resort ... Trader P62 PC Repair Centre ................ Trader P21 Danish Red ....................... Trader P15 Pet Panels ................................. P130 Darwin’s Barra Base .......... Trader P43 Play Rare DVDs ................. Trader P32 Data Central ..................... Trader P52 Practical Legal Solutions ...... Trader P3 Designwyse ........................ Trader P11 Pro-Derm .................................... P6 Dumac Distributors ....................... P25 Dwyer Property Investments .. Trader P50 Productive Gardens ....................... P23 Ecell.com.au ..................... Trader P75 RDA Mortgage Solutions ...... Trader P10 Echo Campers ................... Trader P40 Reef Palms, Cairns ........... Trader P73 Eltham Dental ............................... P5 Rentasaur ........................ Trader P49 Energymasta ..................... Trader P24 Robinvale Wines ............... Trader P68 Entertainment Australia ...... Trader P28 Royal Melbourne Philharmonic ................ Trader P47 Family Care Medical Centre .......... P22 Fastlane Scrappe Supplies .......... P132 Rupertswood Mansion ........ Trader P57 Five High Vendimg .............. Trader P18 RV Towing Solutions ........... Trader P46 Flood Australia .................. Trader P67 Salt Of The Earth ........................ P24 Formula Ford Experience ...... Trader P9 Sandgrabber ..................... Trader P37 Fresh Express ................... Trader P70 Scootersmart .................... Trader P42 Garden Sheds Galore .......... Trader P25 Sea Change Safety Cove ... Trader P58 The Gift Horse .............................. P28 SGI Consulting Group ......... Trader P45 Gilmour’s Comfort Shoes ............. P22 Shop Inside ...................... Trader P51 Golden Days Radio ............. Trader P44 The Smile Clinic ........................... P6 Strata Realty ...................... Trader P26 Grande Florida Beach Resort ......................... Trader P23 Tan Tech Pty Ltd .................. Trader P4 GreenPower Company ......... Trader P27 Ted Bugden ................................ P109 Grey Wolf Fifth Wheels ........ Trader P19 Tilco ................................ Trader P30 Grosvenor In Cairns ........... Trader P63 Torb & Reiner .................... Trader P22 GutzBusta .........................Trader P79 Tow ‘N’ Mow ................................ P27 Hawkesbury River Tracking Central ................ Trader P36 Saddle Co. ................... Trader P80 Tribute Funeral Services ...... Trader P20 Highwood Health Retreat ..... Trader P60 Tucker Tub Online .............. Trader P53 Ivanhoe Cycles ........................ P136 Tunit Australia .................. Trader P55 Jenny Pihan Fine Art ............ Trader P12 Victorian Diamond Traders .. Trader P64

They’re biting up North

Barry MCVilly is in Europe ■ Regular advertiser Barry MCVilly is on tour in Europe at the moment ... he tells us that his hunting associates report of kidnapping problems in Africa, with westerners held for ransom.

Barry takes on commissioned projects for hunting. See his ad on Page 131.

Ted Bugden looks after your saddle

■ Allan Beale from Darwin’s Barra Base says the Barramundi and King Salmon will be “on the bite” early in 2014 when Shady Camp will be netted for the first time in two years.

Allan is taking bookings on (08) 8945 0376.

Just 4 more issues before Christmas ■ There are four more issues of the Melbourne Observer before Christmas: ■ Wednesday, November 27 ■ Wednesday, December 4 ■ Wednesday, December 11 ■ Wednesday, December 18 If you want maximum coverage of your advertising message before Christmas, book your advertising schedule with the Melbourne Observer before 5pm this Friday (Nov. 22).

We have special price incentives too.

Call our Ad-visors on 1800 231 311.

We cover more than Victoria

■ If you want to get your advertising message in front of people in Queensland and New South Wales, consider advertising in the Observer’s sister newspapers: the Brisbane Sun and Sydney News.

Already scheduled for every edition in 2014 are Ball Australia, JMR Australia and Dowden’s Pumping and Water Treatment.

Christmas Gift ideas

■ Kate Broadfoot on Bonn Accord has the perfect Christmas gift if your loved one has an interest in art.

Kate has assembled Painting Australian Landscapes, which is available at www.bonn accord.com for just $19.50.

There are also four books in the Folk Art series available at just $10 each.

You can order from the website, or phone (02) 4284 0802.

■ We welcome Ted and Sally Bugden to the Melbourne Observer VIP advertisers.

Ted makes ‘comfort designed’ saddles for horse enthusiasts. You can contact Ted on (07) 4169 0935 or 0438 776 839.

Other advertisers in our Horse Section this issue include: ■ Leanne Wheeler of Out Riding (P115) ■ Silvia at Birdsall Leather & Craft (P114) ■ Sabina at Acu-Light (P113) ■ Honi at Classic Bloodstock (P110) ■ Kaye at Kohnke’s Own (P112) ■ Christine at The Gift Horse (P28).

Stephen O’Donoghue of Morley Park Stud has an advertisement on Page 115, ahead of Len Baker’s harness racing report.

And take a look at Kyle Galley’s Greyhounds report. You will see the latest specials from Shane at Pet Panels on Page 130.

Coming Attactions ■ Tom Schouten at Metro Cinemas Boronia has a great selection of features over the coming month.

Turn to Page 135 to see details of One Chance, Delivery Man, Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2 and Anchorman 2.

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 3

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City Desk

Melbourne

Observer

The hottest news about Melbourne’s A-listers

The Buzz

Proud link to PM’s office

Magic Kingdom

● Peta Credlin

■ Santa’s Magical Kingdom has opened at Burnley Oval, Richmond.

Publicist Julie Cavnagh says there is an interactive walk-through is an enchanting experience for the whole family and includes: There is Snow Land where artificial snow falls, roving Christmas characters, a Christmas craft area where the kids decorate their own gingerbread man, interactive story reading with Mrs Claus, and a postbox for The North Pole.

■ The Mallee town of Wycheproof has celebrated its link to one of its favourite daughters, Peta Credlin, who is Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, Tony Abbott.

Ms Credlin, 42, was guest speaker at the town’s Community Museum, an event covered by a page in the local Buloke Times.

“It is amazing how once you mention you are from a country town, people open up and you find all these other people from rural backgrounds,” she said. Her great-grandfather was raised in the district.

Under The Clocks Latitude 37 at Baroque Festival

SANTA LOVES PORT

805 awards ■ Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Awards have been awarded to 805 students in Victoria.

Recipients include students at secondary schools at Balwyn, Blackburn, Kingswood College, Our Lady ofr Sion, Marcellin College, Bundoora, Northside Christian College, Parade College, Mt Scopus, PLC, Siena, Camberwell Girls, Camberwell, Canbterbury Girls, Strathcona, Croydon, Luther College, Emmaus, Diamond Valley, Doncaster, Whitefriars, Eltham, St Helena, Greensborough, Scotch, Alia, Our Lady of Mercy, Carey, Genazzano, MLC, Ruyton, Trinity, Xavier, Kew, Koonung, Montmorency, Yarra Hills, Nunawading, Aquinas, Norwood, Tintern, Vermont, Warrandyte, Loyola College, Melbourne Girls’ College and others.

● Latitude 37 - Laura Vaughan, Donald Nicholson, Julia Fredersdorff - will be playing at the Hobart Baroque Festival in 2014. Julie Houghton has more details on Page 120.

Milijana to sing at Opera at the Bowl

● Santa will visit Port Melbourne next week ... in the company of entertainer Mike Brady and the Melbourne Gospel Choir. Details of the November 28 event are on Page 11.

Victoria's finest cricketers are returning to their home clubs this week ★ to partake in ‘Back to Home Week’. Celebrations started last night (Tues., Nov. 19).

The Victorian Racing Industry and the TAB last weekend showed ★ their support for the family and friends of jockey Desiree Gill who was tragically killed in a race fall at the Sunshine Coast.

Millions of dollars in bond money left owing to families who had elderly ★ relatives at Brunsiwck Manor has gone unpaid. Families are asking wherethe funds have gone. special beer has been brewed to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the ★ASteam Packet Hotel at Williamstown.

Melbourne Moments Norm engaged

Icon turns 100

■ Entertainer Normie Rowe, 66, has announced his engagement to Penny Perrin, 26 yearshis junior.

The singer, who was raised in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, says his bride-to-be was named after one of his songs, Penelope.

"Life is what it is today is what you have, this is the only moment the one we're in right now.

“We don't know what's happening tomorrow and yesterday doesn't matter anymore," Normie told Laura Sparkes of the Today Tonight on the Seven Network.

■ The iconic domed reading of the State Library of Victoria first, opened to the public in 1913, turns 100 this month.

Since its opening on November 14, 1913, the magnificent domed reading room (now known as the La Trobe Reading Room) has been the heart of the library and an unmistakable Melbourne landmark.

It was designed by architects Bates, Peebles & Smart and built by JW and DA Swanson at a cost of £66,914, the dome was constructed from reinforced concrete, brick and glass.

● Normie Rowe

● Milijana Nikolic will perform at Opera At The Bowl to be staged on Saturday night (Nov. 23) in Melbourne. More details are on Page 119.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

PHOTO: IKON IMAGES

Page 4 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

Geraldine’s brave new book

■ Whether you travel by train to the city or walk past a busy café, it's highly likely someone nearby is playing a downloaded game on an electronic device.

Online 'app' versions of many popular traditional board games (such as Scrabble) may challenge and entertain us, but nothing achieves the personal interaction of bringing people together in the same space.

When I heard the news (via my iPhone app) that leading social commentator Geraldine Coy was set to launch her new book entitled Brave Truth, in Melbourne, complemented by her new Brave Truth board game, I simply had to applaud her refreshing return to a traditional game during this digital age of 'game apps'.

As I researched Geraldine's story, I discovered her exemplary reputation for rising above fear, having overcome confronting experiences in a most challenging environment in post-apartheid South Africa, before fleeing the country and settling in Australia 14 years ago.

Amid Commission enquiries in which she identified many powerful perpetrators, her life and the safety of her family were threatened.

The risks she has taken with frank, open discussion in the business world pale in comparison with the life-threatening conditions she has faced in her pursuit of truth.

The resulting sense of proportion and resilience in dealing with conflict is evident in her coaching and consulting work with her Red Tin Shed organisation, situated at home in Melbourne's Yarra Valley.

With my iPhone switched off, in between her scheduled radio interview, collecting her daughter from school and writing a speech for her upcoming book launch, Geraldine explained, “I do my most productive thinking on my Porch (around the block) with a 5km walk with my two dogs, admiring the view of the Warburton Ranges before returning home to work with these thoughts.”

Does the Red Tin Shed reflect your philosophy?

Our Red Tin Shed was where my husband and I made the first bottle of wine from vines we planted in 2002.

The realisation of this dream came about through hard work, and real learning through self-reflection.

Self-awareness and truthfulness take courage, tenacity and constant work to develop our strengths and achieve genuine leadership, and I believe everyone

Tin Shed Porch Thoughts

needs to work in their shed regularly!

What was the inspiration and key message in your new book?

Brave Truth was inspired by my work with the Commission. The key messages are of courage and tenacity in the telling of the truth. These are fundamental to authentic leadership.

The board game was inspired by my work with youth leaders in South Africa, and aims to educate and enlighten people, helping them to identify and address fundamental issues and improve their effectiveness in both their work and personal lives.

Brave Truth implies a need for improved “honesty and respect for others” in business and communities. How prevalent do you believe are the challenges to integrity, when “only in Truth can we Trust”?

In the Australian organisations with which I have worked, I've found a huge need for genuine leadership and greater honesty, with increased urgency for accountability in business, government and the wider community.

I have seen too much protection of individual interests, at the expense of organisational (and broader community) interests.

Recent political leadership has evidenced this, and if we can't trust our country's leadership, why would business (and sport) need to do any better?

Who will enjoy and benefit from BraveTruth?

It's suitable for anyone wanting to explore the human psyche: both its positives and negatives.

It imparts wisdom for business and community leadership and development, and is well placed to prepare young adults for a challenging but hopeful future. It has wonderful messages for resilience and faith in a world of opportunity.

How have your experiences in South Africa been embodied in

your Brave Truth executive consulting programs?

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission is one of the most unrecognised miracles of the world today.

Principles and processes of truth were developed to allow for recognition of fact, acknowledgement of events, and ultimately the surrender of hatred.

The resulting determination that these things should never happen again is remarkable, and underpins the concept of freedom in truth.

How do you believe the Brave Truth board game enhances the experience for your readers - is it confronting in any way?

Designed as non-judgemental and reciprocal, the game fosters authentic, values-driven conversation, as a basis for developing trust in relationships.

Once trust is established, people have a much better chance of achieving success in their endeavours.

Everyone has a story, and a belief system with many unconscious biases. Recognition and awareness of this can only help, with a forwardlooking approach and regular feedback.

Confronting and thought-provoking, the board game can be rewarding, but also quite deep and serious. Is there any fun involved?

The experience is rewarding for everyone: half the fun of this game is the “I never realised I had that view, and I don't know where it came from” moment.

It's refreshing to realise that a false belief from a long-forgotten memory may be affecting one's achievements.

In truth we can find freedom, and then we have a choice to make a change: a healthier outcome than the alternative of continued suffering.

And yes, in the safety of a trusting relationships, we can all laugh at ourselves. It's the best fun!

One of the quotes from your book is “People don't necessarily lie, but they often do not tell the truth.” How would you characterise the 'masks' people wear and how they affect their relationships, both at home and at work?'

We all have various masks we wear when we present to different people, as protective images projected to the world in the different scenarios of our lives.

● Geraldine Coy For example, our masks differ beThis simple but profound demontween our professional and personal stration of empathy and compassion relationships, our parents and teach- recognises our complete lack of eners, and from those we wear with our titlement to hold others down or back friends. in life.

They give us confidence to survive It speaks of the privilege (not the daily challenges in different situa- right) of leadership, as a gift to be tions. treated with the respect, in role-modWe build natural 'truths' around us elling behaviour. like walls to protect these images, and What is your Porch Thought will sometimes 'spin' the truth to con- For The Day? vey our world view.

Accountable leadership has to be You've quoted profound courageous: be brave, be true, be words from world leaders such happy! as Nelson Mandela - what is Geraldine Coy launches Brave your favourite quote from Brave Truth through Global Publishing Truth?

Group in Melbourne on Friday My favourite opening quote is 22 November 2013. Brave Truth from Nelson Mandela: “To be free can be purchased through all is not merely to cast off one's chains, major bookstores or online at but to live in a way that respects and www.redtinshed.com.au enhances the freedom of others.”

- Mark Richardson

● Red Tin Shed

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 5

Buying Guide

Healthy Living

TAKING APPOINTMENTS NOW

9424 1831

Page 6 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Healthy Living

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 7

Healthy Living

Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Return to 3AW for Ernie?

Free concert on Monday

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Ash The Melbourne Observer

● Ernie Sigley ■ The 3AW rumour mill is in overdrive ... will Ernie Sigley be making a ‘come back’ to the ‘Talking Melbourne’ air waves?

Most likely is a guest appearance or two on the afternoon program of his mate Denis Walter, whose ratings have been languishing in recent surveys.

Ernie always enjoyed performing Little Drummer Boy in the final show of the year.

The 75-year-old finished at 3AW in November 2008.

Fraudster goes to jail ■ Anthony Coleman, a former lawyer, has been sent to jail for a minimum of three years after using aliases to obtain $400,000.

Coleman, 47, from Yarraville, created false identities of Pat Bateman and Max Power.

Max Power is a pseudonym used by the TV character Homer Simpson.

Supreme Court Judge John Dixon ordered that $360,000 be paid in compensation to the victims.

Coleman fraudulently made applications for first home loans, and filed false documents in regard to taxation, property and rent, the Court was told.

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

● Naomi Johnson ■ Falutist Naomi Johnson will give a free concert at Melba Hall, Parkville on Monday (Nov. 25).

Julie Houghton has all the details on Page 123.

Sale fought in Court

■ The Hobsons Bay Leader reports that the St Stephen’s Uniting Church congregation is fighting the sale of the Melbourne Rd chruch.

The congregation has taken the fight to the Supreme Court.

The church is selling of 56 properties to reduce its debt.

The matter is due to return to the Court on December 2.

Church Secretary Elaine Peck is quoted to say that she welcomes the action going to the Court for review.

Welcome Olivia

Costly words ■ Melbourne is very different to Sydney. In the harbour city, they have the opinionated Alan Jones on breakfast radio.

It has just been revealed that Jones’s comments about thenPM Julia Gillard’s father dying of shame, cost $4 million in cancelled advertising from his radio show.

On the mend

● Colleen Hewett and Christine Walters were at the Memorial Theatre, St Kilda, on Thursday night, for the launch of Bobby Bright’s EP, Child Of Rock And Roll. A page of photos from the special night, by Vanessa Allan, is in this week’s Melbourne Observer.

At Caravan Club

● Wayne Motton ■ Man-about-town Wayne Motton is on the mend after some minor surgery at Epworth Hospital in his suburb of Richmond on Friday.

It is only a few years since he was at the same place for heart by-pass surgery.

To be married

● Welcome to Olivia Violet Lowther, born Thursday (Nov. 14), daughter to Bendigo-bred radio man Nick Lowther and wife Tracey. Olivia checked in at 7lbs, 51cm. Nick, who started his career at Power 94.9, now lives at Nowra. Inset: Tracey and Nick.

■ Canadian folk singer Rose Cousins will perform tomorrow (Thu.) at the Caravan Club, Oakleigh.

She will be playing alongside Australia's Susanna Espie and New Zealander Mel Parsons at 8pm.

Following the Caravan Club gig, Rose will be touring with Jordie Lane in the Festival of Small Halls tour.

Julie Houghton has more details of Rose’s performance, on Page 120 of this week’s Melbourne Observer.

● Rose Cousins

Radio men tell tall stories at Geelong lunch

● D

● Every good wish to Nick Swifte and Kate McMurrich who are to be married this weekend in Geelong. Both work in the advertising industry; Kate is at The Weekly Review Greater Geelong./

● Geelong media men met on Friday for a reunion at The Palace Of The Orient restaurant. Pictured, seated from left, are: John Vertigan (ex-3GL), Bob McKinnon (ex-Geelong Advertiser), Norman Leahy (ex-3GL), Dennis Wall (ex3CS), Ric Ditchburn (ex-3GL), Gary Newton (ex-3GL), Don Dwyer (ex-3GL). Standing: John Humphry (ex-3GL), Ray Evans (ex-Geelong Advertiser).

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 9

Court Roundsman

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

MALE NURSE STRUCK OFF Observer AFTER DRUGS, ROBBERY In This 136-Page Edition

Philip Brady’s comeback

● Showbiz friends welcomed 3AW personality Philip Brady back to an active life at a special morning coffee session held at Kew on Thursday. Pictured (from left) are celebrity limo driver David Baird, entertainer Max Bleach, TV presenter Peter Smith, writer Mike McColl Jones and Philip Brady.

Photo: Kevin Trask 3AW management arranged for celebrity ■ It was less than two months ago that the Melbourne Observer newspaper carried a front- limo driver David Baird to take Brady to page report (see inset) that 3AW presenter the 3AW Docklands studios each night, so Philip Brady had undergone emergency sur- that he could present his Nightline and Remember When programs with co-host Bruce gery in Hong Kong for a broken hip.

Brady, 74, fell down a staircase during a Mansfield.

Philip started driving his own way to work power blackout at a Hong Kong hotel. After the hip replacement surgery, Philip returned last week.

And on Thursday, Philip met up with to Melbourne after special arrangements were friends at Kew to celebrate his recovery. made by QANTAS. He underwent rehabilitation at Epworth Guests included David Baird, singer Max Rehabilitation Camberwell in Toorak Rd, Bleach, TV presenter Peter Smith, writer and returned to his home in the inner eastern Mike McColl Jones and the Melbourne Observer’s Kevin Trask. suburbs.

■ Victorian male nurse Henry Santos Dizon has had his registration cancelled, effective immediately, and may not re-apply to work as a nurse before May 2015.

This follows Dizon’s conviction and imprisonment on two charges of armed robbery, one charge of theft and one charge of possessing a drug of dependence.

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia alleged that Dizon engaged in professional misconduct.

The matter went before the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal this month, with the case heard by Deputy President Mark Dwyer, and members Marietta Byhouwer and Bernadette Hally.

VCAT reprimanded Dizon. It heard that his legal representative had previously submitted that Dizon should have the opportunity to consult with a psychologist.

Dizon confirmed that he had not seen the psychologist.

“Mr Dizon deliberately, knowingly and willingly took part in an armed robbery, involving threats of violence,” Mr Dwyer said.

“Professional standard for nursing include an objective that nurses maintain and build on the community trust and confidence in them, given their critical role in supporting the well-being ofothers. Mr Dizon has clearly betrayed that community trust.”

TRUST MONEY DEFICIENCY SEES ESTATE AGENT OUTED Radio play ■ ABC 774 evening presenter Lindy Burns is directing a live radio play next week (Fri., Nov. 29) that will star Red Symons, Jon Faine, Richard Stubbs, Raf Epstein, Hilary Harper, Libbi Gorr and Gerard Whateley.

You'll Miss Every Piece of Victoria was written by Jeremy Lee, breakfast presenter at ABC South West Victoria and former 774 evening producer.

● Lindy Burns

■ Colin Rounds is to disqualified from holding an estate agent’s licence for 12 months, effective from this afternoon (Wed.), following a decision by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

VCAT Senior Member Jonathan Smithers said the disqualification would take place from 4pm today, after finding that Rounds had used trust money as a line of credit to support his new business.

Mr Rounds' and Colin Rounds Real Estate Pty Ltd's licences are cancelled from today.

It also disqualified them from holding estate agent licences for 12 months and reprimanded Rounds, in orders made this month.

Rounds is also ineligible to act as an agent's representative for six months.

The Tribunal said it was “completely unacceptable”for a real estate agent who had experienced hardships to use trust funds to tide a business over, even for a short period.

It found that Mr Rounds'

Client deprived of $46,900, Tribunal told

Mark Richardson: Straight From The Heart .... Page 4 Melbourne Observer: Kate, Nick to wed ........ Page 8 Di Rolle: My apartment block on fire ........... Page 10 Showbiz News: Short and Sweet ................ Page 11 Long Shots: Melburnian of the Year ........... Page 12 Melb. Confidential: Debra, born to perform .. Page 13 Hollywood: Gavin Wood reports ........... Pages 14, 15 Extra: Jane Wyatt profile ............................ Page 18 Yvonne Lawrence: Life and style ................ Page 21 Victoria Pictorial: Nostalgic photos .............. Page 26 Ted Ryan: Thoroughbreds latest .................. Page 111 Cheryl Threadgold James Sherlock Aaron Rourke Julie Houghton

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

7 years for double fatal ■ Robert Saunders was driving an unroadworthy vehicle on the TraralgonMaffra Rd., under the influence of alcohol and at speeds of around 169-kmh at the time of the crash which killed Daniel Marinovich and Peter Clarke, who were thrown from the back of the vehicle. He has been sentenced to seven years and three months in prison, reports the Latrobe Valley Express.

Released on bail ■ A sole parent with an intellectually disabled child, Colin Clutterbuck, 53, has been released on bail despite being charged with cannabis trafficking while facing other drug charges.

He was arrested in Hamilton.

Thief fined $500 ■ Convicted attacker Daniel Volkmer has pleaded guilty in Geelong Magistrates' Court to charges of stealing and failing to answer bail. He was fined $500.

Blew .13: Police ■ A Bendigo driver blew almost three times over the legal blood-alcohol, with a reading of 0.136, reports the Bendigo Weekly. He was issued an infringement notice with an immediate 13 month loss of licence.

Weather Forecast ■ Today (Wed.). Chaance of rain. 7°-23°.

■ Thurs. Partly cloudy. 8°-16°.

■ Fri. Partly cloudy. 8°-17°.

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 ● Colin Rounds conduct was that of a person who was not fit and proper to practise. This conclusion also applied to the company.

The Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria last month alleged that Mr Rounds had used trust money to pay debts associated with his new real estate business, from April 2011 to May 2012. One client was deprived of a $46,900 payment for about three weeks.

THE TOP 5 JOB OPPORTUNITIES OPEN TO KEVIN RUDD 5. Replacing Virgil on The Thunderbirds.

4. Interpreter at Flower Drum.

3. To become the new Humphrey B. Bear.

2. Create a 'Word of the Day' for the Mensa members magazine 1. PR advisor to Bill Shorten.

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

To

I don’t ‘get’ Bill Bryson

Di ‘This is not a fire drill’

■ I don’t think there is anything quite so bonding as a fire evacuation!

My apartment building caught fire in the roof on top of the elevators.

I hurled myself into the lifts along with all the residents of my apartment building, breaking the number one rule, never get in a lift in a fire!

Upon touching ground fire trucks emerged from all ends of the road and many firemen jumped out and surged into the building.

I stood on the street outside with all the residents which included babies and dogs and my neighbours in various dress.

It was great seeing the new borns that had recently arrived and catching up on all the neighbours news, holidays in Thailand, beach visits, theatre outings, and movies residents had seen.

All this whilst fireman gallantly went in and out of the building.

“There is a guy stuck in a lift on Level 9” one fireman interrupted whilst I was discussing latest news of The Bachelor with three neighbours .

Then “you all have to stay outside for an hour” shouted another fireman, whilst another couple of neighbours discussed the difficulty of growing plants on their balcony.

“Let’s go to the pub,” one neighbour called out, and so neighbours drifted on in clusters to the pub next door.

Laughter, worried expressions and minor panic set in as I waited along with the stragglers who decided going to the pub was probably not the best idea. It would be another way of being trapped I thought.

What really struck me about the whole experience was the camaraderie and how we all helped each other during the mini crisis.

One elderly resident was quite shaken by it all and to see her sitting with a lovely young fireman who surely had lost his profession, a modelling career would have far better suited him as he calming put her at ease, she was laughing along with the rest of us in no time….

The fellow who was trapped in the lift on Level 9, sat and sat, and waited and waited, while a fireman sat on the floor outside the lift talking to him, assuring him that all would be alright. I was told he sat talking to him for hours.

As scary as it was for a few moments it was lovely to see the community come together and rally around each other.

Community is so important.

I love my job!

■ It must be me, but I don’t get Bill Bryson.

I read heaps, all my friends are reading Bill Bryson and are so excited about him coming to Australia.

I get that he is one of the world’s most accomplished and loved authors but that is about it.

Bill will travel to Australia to appear in a live show entitled Bill Bryson – Many A True Word, An Illuminating Interview.

For the first time live on stage, author Bill will take us on a captivating journey through his life, books, travel, history and science, in conversation with Ray Martin.

I have managed to get a couple of friends tickets for Christmas to go and see him and my friends are beside themselves.

Turn To Page 119

For CURLY-TOP GARTH’S CHO CORN ■ It seems as if curly headed men are all the rage at the moment with Tim winning Big Brother.

Well known for his fabulous curly locks. another curly-haired gent, Garth Midgley of Clarinda, won Recipe To Riches with his most wonderful culinary creation.

I love desserts, I shouldn’t but I do. His creation was fabulous.

Cho corn was the name of his sweet delight, based on a much loved recipe, Garth’s chocolate coated popcorn generated the highest ‘sell through rate’ of all the products featured on Recipe To Riches.

Cho corn sold out in more of the 900 Woolworths stores nationally than any other product in the series.

Garth took home the grand prize of $100,000 and a partnership with Woolworths set to change his life forever. .

Recipe To Riches expert and Carmen’s Fine Foods owner Carolyn Creswell said: “Garth winning is what the show is truly all about. It’s seeing someone’s dream come true.”

Garth, the 35 year old managing director of a computer games company and occasional rock band guitarist (he looks like a rock star) said: “I’m so excited that I’m now able to share Chocorn and all of its flavours with the whole of the Australia.

“This is like my childhood Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory dreams come true.”

Garth said he has been developing and experimenting with Chocorn for 10 years, since he first went to

with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE

● Garth Midgley his local cinema and zines each week. had a light bulb mo- There is hardly enough ment while ordering time in the day or the popcorn and a choc-top. evening when I sit Would the two work as down to go through them. one?

One article that did Thanks to Garth, we will never need to catch my eye was in choose between choco- Mens Health magalate and popcorn again. zine.

I thought I knew a Garth said, “I must have made millions of lot about men however pieces of I am always learning Chocorn,tried out and I learnt a few things thousands of flavour reading this article, combinations and put titled The Australian and it through hundreds ‘Modern Man’ Reof focus group tests vealed.

I read that two in with friends and family to get the base five men believe they recipe and all of the dif- shouldn’t have to have ferent flavours just to pay on the first date!

One in five men right.”

Garth’s Chocorn would consider coswill hit Woolworths metic surgery.

Fifty per cent of stores nationwide in the men would prefer a New Year.

Great story. I like glass of wine or spirits seeing people winning. over beer.

Almost one in five men admits that their partners call the shots.

In a most interesting article Men’s Health ■ I get so many maga- magazine released the

Aussie blokes

findings of a national survey that reveals the modern Australian man to be both masculine and sensitive – while increasingly caring about how he looks.

Although beer remains the beverage of choice, results reveal a surprising number of Aussie men (58 per cent) would prefer a glass of wine or spirits.

When it comes to the first date, men are taking longer to get ready than ever before (62 per cent) and when asked who should cover the costs, almost two in five men believe that they should not be expected to pay.

The ‘modern man’ likes to brag about his cooking skills - more than half of the respondents share recipe tips amongst friends (54 per cent) and 43 per cent of men consider themselves to be a good cook.

Ladies are not the only ones feeling nervous about taking their clothes off in front of a new partner – 57 per cent of men say they sometimes feel insecure stripping off for the first time.

Ian Cockerill, Men’s Health Editor says, “This new research gives us an important glimpse into the minds of today’s Australian man.

“From greater attention to grooming and culinary skills, to notions about who should foot the bill, we’ve definitely seeing a shift in perspectives in most areas of their life,” added Cockerill.

Voting for the Men’s Health Celebrity Man is now live; www.menshealth man.com.au and closes on November 28.

● Bill Bryson

Wagner In Paris

● Karen Van Spall ■ With the Melbourne Ring Festival well underway and people coming from overseas to attend performances, I must mention Wagner In Paris.

Melbourne Art Song Collective will explore rarely heard early French songs of composer Wagner written in the Melodie style when they perform Wagner In Paris on Thursday, December 12 at 7pm in the Salon at Melbourne Recital Centre.

Paris was the watershed of European Art in the 19th century and Wagner and his wife Minna lived there for three years as he attempted to establish himself.

For many months they existed in a state of near poverty and it was only decades later, his influence surged like a wave over French art.

Superb mezzo-soprano Karen Van Spall will feature in this performance. Book tickets on www.melbournerecital.com.au or phone 9699 3333.

I love the music so much I put my Christmas tree up this year listening to it.

Reflections on JFK ■ It is a week of reflection with the 50th anniversary of President John Kennedy’s death in Dallas, Texas, all those years ago.

I have watched every documentary leading up to the event and devoured every book and theory on the sinister event. Whoever did it and whatever happened? This must never happen again.

I firmly believe it changed the country forever and affected all of us one way or another, probably more than we know.

A coup d’état of enormous proportions and whether it was a simple accident as has recently been assuggested, it must never happen again.

I do hope the truth will prevail with this episode of our lives that each year the anniversary comes around it seems to grip us (well me anyway) even more.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 11

Showbiz News

JULIE HOUGHTON: SHORT AND SWEET Briefs Tennis talk

● Paul McNamee ■ Tennis legend Paul McNamee will speak at Eltham Tennis Club at 6.30pm on Monday (Nov. 25).

Cost: $33.00 includes a signed copy of his book, Game Changer.

Book: 9439 8700.

Erratic

■ An erratic motorist alleged to be driving more than three times over the limit without a seatbelt is the latest dangerous driver to be removed from the roads by Police.

A Rowville, woman, 35, was spotted at Altona. She is alleged to have blown.

178.

Porn link ■ Two Geelong men have been arrested by the Australian Federal Police as part of an international probe into a Canadian child sex website.

The Geelong Advertiser says two Belmont men, aged 61 and 53, are facing Court.

By CHERYL THREADGOLD ■ Melbourne Observer arts writer Julie Houghton will present her original, one-woman 10-minute show Coward Cabarette – My Life With Noel in Melbourne’s Short and Sweet Festival on Wednesday, November 27 and Thursday, November 28 at 8.30pm at Chapel off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran.

Coward Cabarette – My Life With Noel explores Julie’s long held love of Noel Coward, who she regards as one of the greatest theatrical wits and songwriters of the 20th century.

Julie says the idea for this short cabaret came from seeing Sheridan Morley’s musical play Noel And Gertie.

The production captured Julie’s imagination and she wondered if singing Coward and telling people about him would make a good cabaret show.

The idea wouldn’t leave, so Julie put fingers to computer, “and suddenly there was the genesis of the show!”

In Coward Cabarette, Julie looks at the numerous things she has in common with Noel, although believes this does not include his incredible songwriting and acting talent.

She points out they are both slaves to the magic of theatre and its power to move people, and both love to sing.

In Coward Cabarette, Julie will channel the spirit of Noel Coward, relating some of his life stories and singing excerpts from his witty songs, accompanied on keyboard by Peter Hurley.

After winning an acting scholarship at St Martin’s Theatre School, Julie played small roles in television series and films, before gaining an arts degree, becoming a cadet journalist with ABC TV and Radio News, and then an ABC radio producer and announcer.

These days, she is a freelance arts journalist, MC, professional narrator at Vision Australia, an arts interviewer and voiceover artist on 3MBS, a weekly arts writer for the Melbourne Observer, and has hosted many concerts and events.

In 2010 Julie performed her short cabaret show Confessions of a Radio Host … Names Will be Dropped! in the Short and Sweet Cabaret Festival, has performed as a professional narrator for the annual RMP Carols in the Cathedral Concerts, and is the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic’s publicist.

Away from her professional work, Julie enjoys singing Gilbert and Sullivan contralto roles and performing in music theatre.

Julie says of her latest show: “this is a cabaret born of love, respect … and humour.”

Bookings to see Coward Cabarette – My Life With Noel, can be made by calling 8290 7000 or visit www.chapeloffchapel.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Black Arm Band performs ■ Australia’s contemporary Aboriginal music Black Arm Band, together with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, will present the premiere performance of Ngangwurra Means Heart on Saturday, November 30.

The show was developed with the support of the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts.

Venue will be the Princess Theatre.

Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

THE BARREL ‘Never pick a fight with a man who buys ink by the barrel and paper by the ton.’

The Saturday Paper

● Julie Houghton

The Queen and I

● Lisa McCune with the Melbourne Observer’s own Kevin Trask Photo: Lucy Bright ■ A Queen of the Australian showbiz fraternity, Lisa McCune, was in Melbourne last week for the announcement that Jason Scott Lee will play alongside her in next year’s production of The King And I. Teddy Tahu Rhodes will play in the Brisbane and Sydney productions, but is unavailable for the Melbourne shows which will be staged at the Princess Theatre.

■ Melbourne publisher Morry Schwartz is quoted to say he is hoping for a circulation of 80,000 when he launches The Saturday Paper in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra next year.

Good luck with the project, Morry, but the industry reckons you are more likely to score sales of 12,000-15,000 when the newspaper hits the stands in 2014.

Morry is based in Collingwood, and has been part of the Australian media scene for 40 years. He publishes The Monthly.

Schwartz has signed on a 25-year-old to edit his new weekly paper. Erik Jensen, formerly of The Sydney Morning Herald, will be in charge.

“I believe in quality in journalism. I believe in print.

While some in the industry have convinced themselves of terminal decline, I believe an audience exists for a new player to come in and do journalism better than anyone else. I am launching this newspaper because I know it will work,” Schwarz says.

Schwarz will probably be hoping that The Australian Financial Review - Weekend Edition might fall over before he starts the presses rolling before Easter 2014. The AFR Saturday-Sunday offering dropped 9 per cent in sales, in the latest circulation figures announced this month.

Your Super at work?

● There are only four more editions of the Melbourne Observer in which to advertise your business before Christmas. Book now. Phone our Ad-visors on 1800 231 311.

Up There Port ■ Entertainer Mike Brady will be involved in the launch of ‘Christmas in Port’ on Thursday, November 28.

The fun-filled occasion will be held in the Bay St , Port Melbourne precinct from 5 pm to 9pm.

Santa will visit, Circus Oz will hold a workshop for children, the Melbourne Singers of Gospel Choir will perform, as will The Cadence Capella Choir, Musical Directions and two school choirs Some 150 stores in and around the area will be adorned with 2000 different window decorations: that’s around 4.5 kilometres.

● Eric Beecher ■ Left-leaning publisher Eric Beecher has convinced a number of superannuation funds to bankroll his latest media invention, The New Daily e-newsletter.

AustralianSuper, United Super, Cbus and Industry Super Holdings are believed to have poured $3 million into the project, which is not expected to pay financial dividends for years.

Former Victorian Premier Steve Bracks is believed to be connected with the project.

Editor-in-Chief for the project is former Age and Herald Sun Editor Bruce Guthrie.

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Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Melbourne

Melbourne

Observer

Observer AWARD WINNER

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Contact Us Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 Postal: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic. 3095 Phone: +61 3 9439 9927 Fax: +61 3 9431 6247 Web: www.MelbourneObserver.com.au E-Mail: Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Contact Us Publisher and Editor: Ash Long Media Director: Fleur Long Features Editor: Peter Mac Columnists: Len Baker, Harry Beitzel, Matt Bissett-Johnson, David Ellis, Rob Foenander, Christina La Cross, Julie Houghton, Yvonne Lawrence, Nick Le Souef, Mike McColl Jones, John Pasquarelli, Terry Radford, Mark Richardson, Di Rolle, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Jim Sherlock, Cheryl Threadgold, Kevin Trask, Veritas Distribution: Sam Fiorini, phone 9482 1145

Distribution STATE EDITION: Available weekly at approx. 400 newsagents across the Melbourne metropolitan area, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast, and Victorian regional centres.

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Ash On Wednesday

■ PhotographerMatt Irwin was one of the award winners at the Melbourne Awards, hosted

by Lord Mayor Cr Robert Doyle.

Matt was presented with a Melbourne Award for individual contribution to profile of the city at a gala function at the Town Hall on Saturday night. ★ The Salvation Army’s Major Brendan Nottle was announced as the winner of the Melburnian of the Year award.

The honour came in recognition of Major Nottle’s work overseeing the operations of The Salvation Army in Melbourne’s CBD. Lord Mayor Robert Doyle paid a special tribute to Major Nottle.

“His devotion to strengthening Melbourne’s social fabric is an inspiration to us all,” Cr Doyle said.

“Every week, Brendan can be found in the city giving crucial support to those in need, including meals, clothing and counselling.

“The dedication he brings to his work makes him a role model thoroughly deserving of this accolade,” he said.

“Over the past 10 years Major Nottle has worked tirelessly to implement responses to issues facing the people of Melbourne as well being a positive influence in the lives of people living in Melbourne,” said Dr Bruce Redman for The Salvation Army.

“His leadership has brought about great services that include outreach to marginalised members of the community, providing emergency support to people experiencing homelessness and importantly building a community where people can find belonging,” he said.

Each week in Melbourne, The Salvation Army serves 2000 meals and provides practical and emotional support to people in need of assistance from its centre on Bourke St. This centre also acts as the hub for outreach work with Melbourne’s homeless and the base for mobile street teams, an initiative in partnership with the City of Melbourne to provide people in the city with additional support.

Cheque/Money Order/Credit Card

Name: ..........................................

Address: ....................................... ........... Phone: .............................

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Subject to subscription terms and conditions

● Brendan Nottle

Melbourne TV Memories with Kenneth Mulholland

Consider Your Verdict

● Matt Irwin with Lord Mayor Robert Doyle

Long Shots

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 ■ “A person can save himself from many hard falls by refraining from jumping to conclusions.”

- The Buloke Times

Observer Curmudgeon ■ “The chief obstacle to the progress of the human race is the human race.”

- Don Marquis

Text For The Week ■ “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”

- Luke 6:35 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.

● Consider Your Verdict being produced at the HSV-7 Teletheatre, Fitzroy ■ It was a Saturday in November 1963. I was getting myself breakfast at home in West Heidelberg, listening to the wireless, when the news came through that the President of America had been assassinated by a person or persons unknown.

This was surely a very bad joke. This could not be right. Modern day Presidents, especially in the USA do not get assassinated.

And especially not the most popular, charismatic John F. Kennedy, the vital life-force of American political and military power.

The man who had faced down Nikita Khrushchev and the might of Russia over Cuba's missiles.

Besides, America was a country that had Father Knows Best, Ozzie And Harriet and Disneyland.

People don't get shot in plain daylight.

By the time I got to the Fitzroy Teletheatre, for Consider Your Verdict there were a number of people sitting in the empty audience seating.

Writer/actor/producer Sonia Borg and director John Dixon were amongst some of the camera crew and a few of the cast. The mood was sombre, everyone was stunned.

I can't remember much more about that morning.

We all just seemed to go through the motions, and when we got to the end in mid afternoon, I think everyone simply drifted away, lost in their own shocked thoughts.

Jack Kennedy was dead. What about Jackie?

What about the next President? This Lyndon Johnson bloke? The Kennedy children?

America? Who did it? Why? Of course Australia in the early 1960s was a long way away from America, in distance and in time. Our communications were still Reuters and UP ticker-tape wire agencies and Movietone News reels. Perhaps long-distance phone calls were available, through Government/Military.

During the hours and days to follow, the litany of history slowly unfolded: The suspect was cornered and arrested, taken into custody, moved through the basement of Police headquarters where a determined assailant was able to confront him and fire a gun, killing Lee Oswald.

The gun was held by Jack Ruby who in turn died four years later of an illness reported as (galloping) cancer and also of a pulmonary embolism (eepending on which source you choose).

Much was made of John F. Kennedy's funeral.

His wife, his children, his family did him and the people of America, proud.

Little was made of the funerals of Oswald and Ruby. The first was confined to the same backwater of history as Lincoln's killer John Booth.

The second became a question mark, though not lauded for destroying the man that had destroyed a President; simply cast aside as maybe a puppet of The Mob or an avenger, or perhaps just a lunatic. ★ “The prisoner in the dock will rise. Gentlemen of the Jury. Have you reached your verdict?”

“We have, Your Honour.”

“And how say you?”

“Guilty, Your Honour.”

Cut to a mid-close-up of the accused's downcast face.

Cut to the triumphant mid-shot of the prosecutor, hands clutching the borders of his black robe. In this instance, the actor Wyn Roberts, whose hawkish appearance always challenged and threatened.

Cut to a mid-shot of the bewigged judge, his fingers white and strained against the dark timber of his high throne.

“Then it is my duty to deliver sentence upon you ...”

Turn To Page 21

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 13

Confidential Melbourne

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

DEBRA BYRNE BORN TO PERFORM ... AND TO PROTEST IN CANBERRA

Melbourne’s Secrets

Napthine’s big secret

Quitting ● Debra Byrne ■ Melbourne entertainer Debra Byrne is in overdrive, preparing for the opening of her ‘Born To Perform’ performing arts school in Coburg.

Debra and business partner Sarah Kate Landy have taken over the Holy Trinity Parish Hall, and will teach musical theatre, with drama, singing and choir classes when the school opens in January.

But meanwhile, Debra has been on a bus to Canberra to protest

● The ‘Born To Perform’ signs at 520B Sydney Rd, Coburg against the Abbott Government’s Debra Byrne, now a grandpolicy against asylum seekers. mother of four, was part of the Byrne has been critical of Scott Canberra Refugee Protest AcMorrison, Minister for Immigration tion, on Monday (Nov. 18). and Border Protection.

She was one of the speakers at “He is disconnected. the path he Parliament House, urging the walks is dark and leads to greater Government to close all ofshore suffering,” says Byrne. refugee centres.

LIQUIDATOR TO BE REMOVED

Hinch fans are revolting ■ Facebook fans of broadcaster Derryn Hinch are fighting between themselves, and the ‘Human Headline’ says he will step in to break it up if necessary.

“I’m pretty new to the Facebook territory and I am flattered that I have so many followers and friends,” he told his ● Derryn Hinch group late last week.

“But something is happening that I don’t like and weon’t tolerate. I don’t block people - here or o0n Twitter. I don’t censor people. And because I dish it out I am prepared to take it. Even when some comments are highly defamatory.

“But I am not going to permit my page to be used as a conduit for people to insult other people on issues that have nothing to do with me or my campiagns.

“Go and throw your dirt at each other in your own Facbook backyards,” Hinch warned.

Spotted

● Neil Mitchell ■ Much is being made by some media industry observers of a visit by 3AW morning host Neil Mitchell to Sydney this month.

Bitch

● Dr Denis Napthine ■ Victorian government records went into extended secrecy, following a notice published quietly in last Thursday’s edition of the Victoria Government Gazette.

State Premier, Dr Denis Napthine, was the signatory to a notice that will keep Cain-Kirner cabinet documents (1986-1991) confidential until 2026.

Kennett Government records (1992-99) will not be able to be inspected by the public until 2032.

Cabinet records from the Steve Bracks and John Brumby eras (1999-2010) will remain secret until 2041.

Whispers

■ Glen Waverley liquidator Tom Fernandez’s registration is being cancelled by the Australian Investments and Securities Commission.

The registration of Avitus Thomas (Tom) Fernandez is taking place following a successful application to the disciplinary body, the Companies Auditors and Liquidators Disciplinary Board.

The CALDB’s order to cancel Fernandez’s registration follows his appointment as the administrator of Willmott Forests Ltd and its subsidiaries in September 2010.

ASIC alleged a $200,000 payment to Fernandez

by Willmott to cover his costs was not disclosed or given to the receivers and managers who were entitled to it, and not disclosed to creditors or the administrators who replaced him in October 2010.

The CALDB found that Fernandez’s conduct demonstrated a serious lack of judgment, insight, expertise and ability, and, therefore, that he was not a fit and proper person to remain registered as a liquidator.

“Mr Fernandez’s conduct was unacceptable and inconsistent with the standards required of liquidators,” ASIC Commissioner John Price said.

“This decision reiterates the importance of transparency and proper disclosure by liquidators when doing their job.”

Fernandez, who the CALDB suspended in 2005, has the right to appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for a review of the CALDB’s decision.

At the time of his conduct, Fernandez was the sole director and secretary of Fernandez Partners at Glen Waverley.

ASIC’s recent actions against registered liquidators who failed to meet their obligations include: ASIC obtaining Court orders prohibiting the re-registration of Melbourne liquidator, Andrew Leonard Dunner, and cancelling the registrations as a liquidator of Melbourne liquidator, Paul Anthony Pattison.

Rumour Mill

● Justin Madden ■ Labor MP Justin Madden is stepping down from his position as a Shadow Minister.

He will leave politics at the next State Election, scheduled for November next year.

To Court

Hear It Here First

‘Love God’ going to Gold?

● Richard Mercer

■ The Rumour Mill hears that there is a strong chance that Richard Mercer, Mix 101.1’s ‘Love God’, will move his Love Songs Dedication program to Gold 104.3 in the new year. Both stations are owned by the Australian Radio Network. Mercer is Sydney-based.

College: ‘monies due’ ■ Heathdale Christian College Lyd has requested a Registrars’ Hearing at Werribee Magistrates’ Court this Fridsay (Nov. 22) to allege a civil action againtsMary Luxford, claiming “monies due”. Heathdale College operates a P-12 school at Derrimut Rd, Werribee.

E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au

■ The Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh has requested a Melbourne Magistrates’ Court Registrars’ Hearing tomorrow (Thurs.) at 10.30am to allege a civil debt against Nicolas Maltezos for “monies due”.

Hunted ■ Which prominent hunter became the hunted on a project at the top end of Australia this month?

Whispers hears that a beast, running at full speed, was killed just three feet (one metre) away from the marksman ... but not before ripping the man’s R M Williams pants.

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Feature

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 15

West Hollywood

NEW HOME FOR FILM MAKING From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.

‘Hobbit’ films outspend ‘Rings’ ● James Cameron

Cabaret returns to Broadway ■ Michelle Williams is set to make her debut on the Great White Way, Broadway says the three-time Academy Award nominee.

One time girlfriend of our own Heath Ledger and mother of their 8-year-old daughter, Matilda Rose Ledger, Michelle is heading for a 24-week run as Sally Bowles opposite stage veteran Alan Cumming as Emcee in Cabaret.

Previews will begin March 21, with an opening set for April 24.

Academy Award-winning American Beauty filmmaker Sam Mendes will direct the production, a role he took on for the 1993 revival of the show, which also starred Cumming.

You now have plenty of notice to head to Broadway next year.

Get those frequent flyer points working for you.

One week in West Hollywood and one week in New York and then back to Hawaii for some rest and recreation before heading home.

Sounds good? Then check out the Special Holiday Offer: I have managed to secure a terrific holiday deal for all readers of the Melbourne Observer.

When you are 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@ramada weho.com

■ Making the movie trilogy The Hobbit has cost more than half a billion dollars so far, double the amount spent on the three movies in the Lord of the Rings series also shot around Wellington.

That figure includes the major 266 days of filming with actors that was completed last year, although it doesn't include an additional two months or so of 'pick up' shoots done this year.

Through March 31 , production had cost $NZ676 million , or $561 million at current exchange rates, according to financial documents filed in last month in New Zealand, where the movies are being made.

Distributor, Warner Bros. and director Peter Jackson may consider the money well spent.

To date, only the first movie in the latest trilogy has been released.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey took in just over $1 billion at the box office.

Wellington's thriving film industry, home to Peter Jackson's Miramar filmmaking empire and now legendary Titanic director, James Cameron show that the film industry is having a great effect to that countries economy.

For these facts alone New Zealand's capital city is now fondly known as 'Wellywood.'

Set on a harbour above which rise green hills dotted with colonial villas, reminiscent of San Francisco, Wellington has a stylish, funky vibe and is celebrated for it's culture and vibrant food scene.

It is then when you get the drift why it has such an attraction for the film industry.

Nearby, in Peter Jackson's movie-making town of Miramar you will find the Roxy Cinema, which has been totally refurbished.

This re-created, modern day marvel, has a theatre, Grand Lobby and a Grand Lobby cocktail bar ideal for conferences, seminars and special events all done with the profits from the film industry.

● Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites Managing Director Alan Johnson with one time L.A.P.D. Chief William J. Bratton.

● Linda Ronstadt

Irv’s last stand

GavinWood

From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd

Boardwalk Empire ■ Santa Monica Pier seeks to become a great concert venue.

The century old pier is an instantly identifiable but historically significant landmark where thousands of tourists walk every day of the year.

So, why not a concert venue?

The G'Day USA team has an annual concert at the pier and now festivals are starting to perform there attracting a broad audience.

Last month saw it's 29th annual Twilight Concert series with a free show by reggae star Jimmy Cliff. The concert drew 30,000 people.

So watch out 2014, the pier at Santa Monica will be rocking.

■ The 6- year-old burger stand, across Santa Monica Boulevard from West Hollywood City Hall, is a throwback to the 1940s, when GIs returning from World War II used surplus aluminum from local aircraft plants to open short-order shacks along busy L.A.-area streets.

With the area's mild winters, the open-air stands could operate year-round.

The burger stand was once a haunt for musicians such as Jim Morrison and Janis Joplin and also featured as artwork for a Linda Ronstadt album.

West Hollywood actor Sean Martini said he patronised Irv's "almost every other day." He stood in line, for the last day of operation, with his girlfriend, model Bria Myles.

‘In the line of duty’ awards

■ One of the best nights in Los Angeles was held and there was not one incident. Too many police officers in attendance. This night is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the L.A.P.D. Headlined by Julio Iglesias and attended by more than 1000 business, entertainment, political and community leaders including California Governor Jerry Brown, Police Chief Charlie Beck, Sharon Stone, Bill Maher, Lionel Richie, Billy Bush and many more. Several hundred members of the LAPD family are always in attendance.

Funds raised at this annual gala benefit provide much needed financial support for police officers and their families in times of critical need along with the children and charitable organizations in the communities served by LAPD officers.

Hot idea celebrity roasts

■ Long before the Comedy Channel roasted Charlie Sheen and Gene Simmons, there was the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts on NBC Television.

Now all 54 roasts have recently been released in a 25 disc DVD set that features 15 hours of bonus features, interviews, home movies, a collector's book and even a Dean Martin figurine for Dino-philes.

In 1973, Martin's long running variety series began a new feature, "Man of the Week Celebrity Roast," and the following year the roasts turned into specials that lasted 11 years.

Among the legends roasted include Martin himself, Bob Hope, then California Governor Ronald Reagan, Don Rickles, Johnny Carson, Sammy Davis Jr., Jack Benny and Lucille Ball.

For more information go to www.timelife.com

Special Holiday Offer

● Peter Jackson

● Janis Joplin

www.gavinwood.us

■ I have managed to secure a terrific holiday deal for all readers of the Melbourne Observer.

When you are 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

Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Fishing Feature

$50 OFF if you mention that you saw this in the Observer

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013 - Page 17

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

The Swords come to the Fore

United Grand Lodge of Victoria looks back 125 years as it looks forward to its Anniversary ■ Freemasonry has been in Australia since the arrival of the First Fleet which landed in Botany Bay, NSW in 1788.

Officers and military men who came from England as the first settlers of our country, established military lodges that were granted travelling warrants, with the first Lodge being established as 'The Australian Social Lodge No 2601C' which held its first meeting on January 4, 1820 in Sydney.

There is no doubt that the foundations of our wonderful city and great state, have been hugely influenced by some great leaders and principles that directly relate to Freemasonry.

On December 23 , 1839 in Melbourne, 21 influential men, Freemasons, drew up a petition to form a Masonic Lodge. This Lodge was to be called the Lodge of Australia Felix.

A lodge is a group of men, who come together and collectively practice the traditions and proud principles that are Freemasonry.

At this stage, there were three predominant governing constitutions for Freemasonry in Victoria, the English, Scottish and Irish.

These had arrived in their form with the first settlers to our country.

It is without doubt, that Freemasonry played a pivotal part in the growth and establishment of our state. The foundation stones of some of the most prominent buildings in our city, such as the Melbourne Court House, the Melbourne Hospital, the Princes Bridge and many more, serve as a constant reminder, that Freemasonry was at the cornerstone of early Melbourne and Victorian architecture.

By the 1880s, Freemasonry in Victoria had grown to such a degree that there were more than 100 Lodges scattered throughout the state.

The number of Lodges in Melbourne grew by 50 per cent in six years, and Freemasonry was indeed, prominent at the highest levels of office, influencing every walk of life.

In 1883, a group of men decided that a new, Victorian named and based body be formed to govern and oversee Freemasonry in Victoria, and the Grand Lodge of Victoria was established.

By 1889, such was the continued growth, influence, popularity, strength and presence of Freemasonry in Victoria, that further establishment occurred, creating the UNITED Grand Lodge of Victoria.

The Installation of the very first Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria was held at the Melbourne Town Hall on March 21, 1889, with more than 6000 Freemasons in attendance, starting a remarkable journey that remains pivotal in our society today.

● Marko with his Mum Belinda, as the cheque is presented by Nick Rinkel to General Manager, Ronald McDonald House, Mr Peter Bishop.

■ At its most recent (33rd) Symposium, the Marko's family live on a farm in Yea, makmembers of Excalibur met for a luncheon at ing it difficult for Belinda, Marko's Mum to the Malvern Valley Reception Centre. be with him in hospital.

Excalibur members are all current or past Ronald McDonald House made sure Grand Sword Bearers. A great afternoon was there was always accommodation available had by all, and a raffle was conducted after the when needed. meal. The recipient organisation chosen was The raffle collected $310, which was doubled Ronald McDonald House. by the Board of Benevolence. As a result it This choice came about as Swords Leah was with pride that Mum Belinda, Marko and Nick Rinkel's grandson, Marko had been and Nick presented a total of $620, to General spending several months at the Royal Manager, Ronald Mc Donald House Mr Children's Hospital, receiving treatment for Peter Bishop. Peter expressed his thanks to Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia.

Freemasons Victoria for its generosity.

Catalina Flying Boat Repair Unit

■ The Catalina Flying Boat Repair Unit about the conflict and the role played at Lake was the only inland facility of its type during the Boga.

Prior to the opening of the hangar, memoraconflict of World War II, and as such was a top bilia was confined to the bunker that housed the secret station.

Some 900 Air Force and Army personnel communications facility and was extremely clutmaking it difficult for more than a handful were stationed there, situated at Lake Boga, 10 tered of people to visit at any one time. or so kilometres east of Swan Hill.

This has now changed with ample room in the During that time a total of seven personnel lost hangar and the communication bunker restored to their lives, not as a result of fighting but rather, exactly as it was during war-time. by accident.

An interactive computer facility is also inThose seven are buried in the War Memo- cluded in the new facility allowing visitors to rial section of the Lake Boga Cemetery. search and learn on-screen.

During the 1950s, after the closure of the faThe Lions Club of Lake Boga in conjunccility, a Catalina Flying Boat was preserved, tion with Swan Hill Lodge No. 919, applied to together with the top secret radio communications the Board of Benevolence in April 2013 for bunker, to establish a unique museum unique in funds to establish a memorial garden and gazebo the world. which lists the names of fallen personnel.

The Lions Club of Lake Boga took on the The project cost $4000 and the Board protask of continued preservation and enhancement vided those funds from the 'Green Thumb' acfor the benefit of visitors and five years ago, af- count. ter much fundraising and government support, On Tuesday October 29, a plaque was offiwere able to build a hangar for the Catalina that cially unveiled, acknowledging the contribution had previously been on display in the open, and from Freemasons Victoria to establish the garden and surrounding grounds, following which all subject to the ravages of the weather.

With the opening of the hangar, visitor num- present on the day enjoyed the hospitality of the bers have greatly improved, particularly among Lake Boga Lions who have established their school children as a means of educating them clubroom at the facility. ● From left: VWBro. Frank Fordyce - President BoB; WBro. Graeme Wormley - Secretary Lake Boga Lions; RWBro. Jim Thompson PDGM, Swan Hill Lodge No. 919; Mr David Marks - President Lake Boga Lions Club

● 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. ● ‘Freemasons: The Inside Story’ airs every Monday night at 8.30pm on Channel 31, with replays throughout the week on Thursdays at 12.30am, 3pm and Saturdays at 12.30pm. Or catch up online at www.c31.org.au and follow the links.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 20, 2013

■ I guess that Jane Wyatt is best remembered for her role as the mother in the 1950s television series Father Knows Best but Jane was a successful film actress for many years prior to the series.

Jane Waddington Wyatt was born in 1910 in New Jersey and raised in New York City.

During her teenage years Jane performed in stage productions and pursued a career as a professional actress.

She received good reviews for plays on Broadway and this led to a film contract with Universal Studios.

Her first screen appearance was in One More River in 1934.

Jane married investment broker Edgar Ward in 1935 and the marriage lasted till Edgar's death in 2000.

She was married in a dress that her great-greatgrandmother wore in 1800 at the Court of St James.

Jane was a devout Catholic and had two children Christopher and Michael.

Her first significant starring role was in the 1937 Frank Capra classic The Lost Horizon where Jane played the love interest to Ronald Coleman.

Her films included Boomerang, Gentleman's Agreement, Canadian Pacific and My Blue Heaven.

She initially did not want to play Margaret Anderson in Father Knows Best because she

Whatever Happened To ...

Jane Wyatt

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM was not keen to just play the mother at a time when she was getting interesting leading roles in television productions.

The series was cancelled after the first season in 1954 but due to a flood of protests from viewers it was re-instated and began filming again in 1955.

Father Knows Best starred Robert Young as the father and the Anderson children were played

by Elinor Donahue, Billy Gray and Lauren Chapin.

Jane won three Emmy Awards for her role as Margaret Anderson.

Jane guest-starred in many television series in her later years and played Spock's mother in the original Star Trek series.

● Jane Wyatt

She was also in the film Star Trek IV - The Voyage Home in 1986 and commented that her fan mail from these two appearances was more than what she received for Lost Horizon.

Her final film role was in Amityville 4 in 1989.

In 2004 when I interviewed Billy Gray, her co-star from Father Knows Best, Billy told me that he had taken Jane to the theatre the previous evening and they had remained very good friends over the years.

During her lifetime Jane worked for the children's charity ‘The March of Dimes’.

Jane turned down the role of ‘Old Rose’ in the 1997 film Titanic as she wanted to remain in retirement.

Jane Wyatt died on October 20, 2006, in her sleep of natural causes at her home in California.

Jane Wyatt said that she wanted to be remembered for her happy marriage and her beautiful children - a lovely lady.

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.

THE NT NON-LIMIT HAS RETURNED

■ The Rock has been one of Australia's icons for decades, and deservedly so.

Its very presence, from a casual viewing perspective, is breathtaking its colours are somewhat muted during the day, but at the break of dawn, and the sunset, the glowing shades are just spectacular as they change from minute to minute.

I've seen it hundreds of times, from hot mid-summer to chilly mid-winter,

from a dark starlit sky to bright moonlight; from dull ominous clouds to the pouring rain with its cascading waterfalls.

And there is the ‘Sounds of Silence’, which is a five-star restaurant experience under the stars, a gastronomic extravaganza beneath the clear night sky.

But there is a more recent phenomenon which I missed out on, and which

What’s On At Town Hall ■ Much loved soundtracks from blockbuster films including Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Mission will soar when almost 10,000 pipes of the Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ and one of Australia’s finest percussion ensembles perform Organ & Percussion & Soprano on Tuesday, December 10.

The final concert in the popular Organ &… series will bring together renowned organist Brendon Lukin, the players from Sydney’s Synergy Percussion and special guest soprano, Cath Lukin, for a family friendly concert of 19th Century gothic music, a new Australian commission, and well-known film music recreated for the historic Grand Organ.

Award-winning contemporary music ensemble Synergy Percussion make a rare Melbourne appearance, adding the beats of drums, marimbas, xylophones, timpani and junk percussion to the breathtaking majesty of 9592 pipes, which will recreate the delicate wind instrumentation of Ennio Morricone’s The Mission and the thunderous cavalry charge inspired by John Williams's War Horse soundtrack.

Soprano Cath Lukin has learned ‘Elvish’ for her contribution to a piece from The Lord of the Rings and brings yet another dimension to the Grand Organ’s diversity performing Benjamin Britten’s magnificent Our Hunting Fathers, in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the British composer’s birth. The performance marks the first time Our Hunting Fathers has been performed in the unique arrangement of organ, percussion and soprano.

● Taran Carter Audiences will also experience Melbourne genre-blending composer Taran Carter’s new composition Mixed Precipitation and Boellman’s haunting organ solo Gothic Toccata, written in 1875.

City of Melbourne Arts and Portfolio Chair Cr Rohan Leppert said the Organ &… series had provided Victorians with a fantastic opportunity to hear the versatility the largest organ in the southern hemisphere.

- Prue Bassett

Christmas time ■ The Community Christmas Tree Festival is to be held at Holy Tribity Anglican Church in Balaclava.

Melbourne Singers of Gospel will be the headline act. Their Lights, Action, Music Concert will be held at the church on Saturday, December from 7 6pm. Admission is $20 and children are free.

Carols Amongst the Christmas Trees will be held from 4pm on Sunday, December 8.

I would dearly have loved to have experienced - the Darwin Symphony Orchestra playing out there beneath the stars.

My mates tell me that this was truly memorable.

■ At last there's some finality on the speed limit issue.

As I've mentioned previously, there was open slather until Labor won, and then it was reduced to 130kmh, except on the Lasseter Highway out to the Rock, which was 110.

This obviously aroused the ire of many of the locals, so the limit has been eradicated once again, at least for a trial run on one section, from Barrow Creek to Alice.

There are plenty of views on this reintroduction of the non-limit.

The AAA listed the Stuart Highway as one of the worst roads in Australia, yet there hasn't been a fatality on this particular stretch for 10 years, and of the 500 overall fatalities in this period, only 106 were speed related.

Whilst I haven't seen the statistics, I reckon most were alcohol-related in unroadworthy cars in the towns.

And of course there are Territorians who claim that it's "boring" to travel at 110.

"I go to sleep," says Tony Conner, owner of Mobil Larapinta. " My mind stops working - but when you are doing 150kmh you're alive you're staying awake because you've got to drive the car!"

But towards Darwin he sat on 240 kmh -"a bit dangerous on the winding road," he said.

■ A few years ago I noted that there was a documentary being filmed, called Lasseters' Bones , about the famous prospector Harold Lasseter.

It was following the travels of his son, Bob, now 85, in his search not only for the reef, but for the truth to try and vindicate his dad's name.

The whole thing has been an enigma since it all began in 1929, when the reef was supposedly discovered, and people have been trying to re-locate it ever since.

I always found it hard to visualise a huge white quartz reef poking out of the desert, with great dollops of gold glittering in the sun.

That is until I found one myself. Minus the gold, unfortunately!

I was at Harts Range, out of

The Outback Legend

with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au mate American George. We were looking for garnets, and had decided to go for a wander around in the desert on a rough old bush track.

Then as we drove on, we noticed that glistening in the distance was a large lump of pure white quartz, and it was a spectacular sight.

But I have always maintained that the last thing anyone would do if they ever found Lasseter's Reef would be to tell anyone about it!

■ There are bush tracks all over the Centre, and I used to love travelling around on them.

However, around Ti Tree and Six Mile, 135kms north of Alice, there's a problem.

Even though the Aboriginal communities have had strict alcohol restrictions since the nineties when they were requested thus by elders, drinkers have found a way of circumventing this.

There is a "bush highway" which travels parallel to the Stuart Highway, and of course all the drinkers use this. They travel along this road with their oldunregisteredandunroadworthy cars,and themselves, full of grog, and consume

their cans outside the community boundaries. This has been going on for years - as one indigenous mother said: "See too much grog, too much drinking, too much drugs".

When will it ever end?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders children are six times more likely to be placed in out- of- home care than non- Aboriginal children.

Alice Springs Police arrested and charged six people last week with alcohol and violence related crimes; a 28-year-old woman who used a rock to attack another female victim; 19year-old male who struck a woman with a metal pole; a 30-year-old man who punched and kicked his female victim in the head; as also did a 36year-old male.

The local police are trying to reduce family and domestic violence - they have made 152 arrests in the last three months.

Sad and depressing

■ A few weeks ago I reported on an incident regarding some Indian bank employees playing volleyball in the Todd River bed.

They were disrespecting sacred sites, according to one Aboriginal activist. This seems to have been sorted out.

Now, however, there's another similar issue which has raised its head.

Beach cricket!

Happily any potential dispute has been nipped in the bud with an agreement between the Lhere Artepe and the Parks and Wildlife Commission.

This epic is to be played via a round robin between the Barmy Army, which will be visiting Alice as part of a visit by the England Ashes squad, and any other locals who may be interested.

Also included as participants in the line-up will be a team from the Indigenous All-stars.

Apparently beach cricket carnivals were a big deal around the nation's beaches some time ago, not that I ever witnessed any on the Southern Peninsula; however I'm for anything that gets a bit of publicity and fun and interest for the Centre.

As Bryan Littlely, the Centralian Advocate's editor, who's at the forefront of the organisation, said: "We've got plenty of sand."

- Nick Le Souef ‘The Outback Legend’