Ob 24sep14 bz

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014 - Page 7

Court Roundsman

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

Ex-soldier loses pension bid Observer linked to heavy alcohol use In This 96-Page Edition

Legally Blonde

● Tailem Tynan (Elle’s Mum) and Warwick Reid (Elle’s Dad) in CLOC Musical Theatre’s Legally Blonde.

Photo: Richard Crompton ■ CLOC Musical Theatre opens with Le- by James Rooney, with musical direction by gally Blonde on October 3 at the National The- Andy McCalman. atre, St Kilda.

Legally Blonde follows bubbly, pink-loving This vibrant, heart-warming musical can Elle Woods on her journey of self-discovery. be seen until October 18, with 2pm matinees Tickets: $52/$47 on October 5, 11 and 12.

Bookings: 1300 362 547 or www.cloc.

The show is directed and choreographed org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

■ Former soldier Jennifer McKinley has failed to convince the Veteran Appeals Division of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal that her alcohol dependence is war-caused.

Senior AAT Member John Handley, sitting in Melbourne, found that the alcohol use disorder could not be linked to Army service in East Timor.

Mr Handley said that, on the balance probablities, the former Sgt McKinley could not be said to be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome.

The Tribunal heard McKinley was in the Army from 1986 to 2005, and in East Timor in 1999-2000 as part of the 1st Combat Service Support Team.

She currently receives a 60 per cent pension for knee and ankle injuries, and is unable to work more than eight hours per week.

McKinley’s evidence told of travelling from Dili with a loaded rifle, ready to fire. She had to repress her fears.

McKinley told of seeing a building with bloody hand prints on the wall, being “terrified” on six occasions at Dili, and overhearing local conversations.

McKinley said she had trouble leaving her home, being in crowds, with depression getting the better of her.

High risk circus at Prahran ■ The National Institute of Circus Arts presents 7, a triple bill to be performed by its second year students as part of the 2014 Melbourne Fringe Festival, from September 24-27 and October 1-4 at the custom built National Circus Centre in Prahran.

The directors have crafted three individual narratives around the theme of 7. Each will explore a distinct aspect of today’s society.

Apartment 7 - Directed by Meredith Kitchen and Aaron Walker, tells of the chaos of a share house, where personal space doesn't exist, boundaries are overstepped daily, cohabitants become unlikely friends or annoying foes, simple things become overcomplicated and we all wish we had chosen the studio apartment with a cat.

On the 7th Day - Directed

by Martine Howard and Tarn Scully is set in a post-apocalyptic world, a group of strangers are thrown together in an air raid shelter; the time and place are unknown. Some are clinging on, others are losing the plot, most are just desperate to find a way to escape. Innovative visual imagery collides with circus to create a show where all is not quite as it seems. #ashtag7 - Directed by Dan Power, features the world we

are already in, the world of touch screens, keyboards and smiley faces. In #ashtag7 the pandemonium of automation and computerisation are brought starkly to our attention; uncover how an overwhelming connection with technology can sometimes mean a disconnection with each other.

Performances: September 24-27, October 1-4. Time: 7.30pm, Sat 1.30pm and 7.30pm (2hr). Venue: NICA National Circus Centre, 39 - 59 Green Street, Prahran. Tickets: $33/$27. Bookings: melbournefringe.com.au or call 9660 9666. Parental guidance recommended - Cheryl Threadgold

Observer: Philip Brady’s party ............... Page 8 Barrel: Julia’s re-invention .................. Page 9 Fiona Byrne: Love This City! ........... Pages 10-11 Been and Seen: Parade first night ......... Page 12 Melb. Confidential: Digger at Tribunal ... Page 13 Long Shots: The Editor’s column .......... Page 14 Yvonne Lawrence: Life and Style .......... Page 15 West Hollywood: Gavin Wood reports .... Page 17 Trask’s Profile: Betty Hutton .............. Page 18 ‘Your Stars’ returns. Turn to Classifieds, P43 Free Classified ads - coupon on Page 42 Radio Confidential Country Crossroads Local Theatre Movies, DVDs

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

Grand Final fever ■ Victorian football team Hawthorn will play the Sydney Swans in this Saturday’s AFL Grand Final at the MCG, due to start at 2.30pm.

16th break-in ■ Caitlyn McDonald’s Raw Edge Hair-dressing at Belmont has suffered its 16th break-in, reports the Geelong Advertiser.

Wash with the lot ■ A Ballarat car wash customer, who slipped on the accelerator, found himself crashing through the wall of the next-door shop at the weekend, reports The Courier.

Accused in Court ■ Some 15 accused ice dealers have now faced Wangaratta Magistrates’ Court as a result of a Police operation that culminated with drug raids. Detectives arrested the final alleged offender – Matthew Robinson, 31, of Wangaratta – on and brought him before court, where he was remanded until December 4, when all the accused will next face their charges together, reports the Wangaratta Chronicle.

Drugs at Sale ■ Four drivers have tested positive to methamphetamines and cannabis during a Police operation at Wellington Shire, near Sale, reports the Gippsland Times.

Weather Forecast ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Today (Wed.). Chance of rain. 12°-24° Thurs. Chance of rain. 7°-18° Fri. Mostly cloudy. 6°-16° Sat. Partly cloudy. 10°-19° Sun. Partly cloudy. 11°-21°

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE T OP 5 SUGGES TED TOP SUGGESTED TITLES FOR OSCAR PIS TORIUS's NEW BOOK PIST ● National Institute of Circus Arts audiences will be able to witness high level circus skills including high wire, slack wire, dance trapeze, cloudswing, aerial ring and tissu.

5. 'A Farewell To Legs' 4. 'Silence of The Limbs' 3. 'The Power Of Two' 2. 'Dial 0 For Murder' 1. 'I Can Jump Puddles'

Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Cancer

● Tesa James ■ “Former Home and Away actor, Tessa James has announced she has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” a statement said.

“She has returned home to the Gold Coast to be with her husband, Titans Co-captain, Nate Myles”.

“Tessa will be undergoing chemotherapy over the next few months,” the pair said.

The 23-year-old was born in Melbourne.

Craft Show ■ The Stitches and Craft Show, is heading to Caulfield Racecourse from October 2326.

The event will include expert retailers, hands-on workshops, cake decorating displays, international textile exhibitions, a yarn bombed vintage car, a Kids Zone, the latest products and more.

The Melbourne Observer has five double passes to give away to the first five entries received before Monday, October 7, sent to PO Box 1278, Research, 3095. Include your name and address.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Ash

Melbourne Observer The Showbiz Bible

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

Amadeus show soars

Footy Show

■ The Grand Final Footy Show, kicks off livefrom Rod Laver Arena at 8.40pm tomorrow (Thu.) on Channel 9.

Headlining this year’s spectacular are the Madden Brothers, Joel and Benji, to perform two hits from their new album, Greetings From California.

Justice Crew and Sheppard will have the 12,000-strong crowd singing along to their number one smash hits, Que Sera and Geronimo.

One of the highlights of the night is always the Grand Final Revue.

Chamber choir at Carlton

Once ■ Social photographers are being invited to the stage of the Princess Theatre as the VIP guests enjoy a drink at before the show Once opens on Saturday, October 4.

The set is a working bar, setting the scene for a late night lock-in within a typical Irish pub.

It is based on the Irish film which became a surprise international hit in 2006, and won an Oscar for Best Song (Falling Slowly),.

It has been adapted for the stage by John Tiffany.

● Don Nicholson (Von Strack) at left, Paul Kennedy (Orsini Rosenberg), Paul Schmidt (Emperor Joseph II), Jim Thomson (Van Swieten) and Angelo de Cata (Salieri) in Heidelberg Theatre Company’s production of Amadeus. Photo : David Belton ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company’s reputation for presenting high quality theatre continues to soar with its splendid production of Amadeus, running until September 27 at 36 Turnham Ave, Rosanna.

Amadeus is playwright Pe- finest stage actors.

Mark Briggs as Mozart ter Shaffer’s fascinating, fictionalised version of Italian embodies his character’s vulcomposer Antonio Salieri’s nerability, emotions, and erratic implication in the mysterious behaviour with expert flair.

Pedro Ramos and Blake death of Austrian classical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Stringer (Venticellos) add a delightfully entertaining GreekMozart in 1791, aged 35.

Russian writer Alexander chorus element, while Cat Pushkin gave this rumour cred- Jardine as Mozart’s wife ibility in his 1830 poetic drama Constanze, captures well her common touch, and chemistry Mozart and Salieri.

Set in Vienna in 1823, eld- with Mozart.

Paul Schmidt effectively erly court composer Salieri claims he poisoned Mozart portrays egalitarian Emperor and offers to explain his story. Joseph II, with strong perforIn flashbacks to the 18th mances also enjoyed from Paul century, Salieri admires and Kennedy (Count Franz envies Mozart’s compositions, Orsini-Rosenberg), Don but when meeting the gifted Nicholson (Count Johann prodigy is appalled by his ec- Kilian Von Strack) and Jim centric personality and naïve, Thomson (Baron Gottfried Van Swieten). childish behaviour.

Unfortunately space limitaBelieving music to be ‘God’s art’, Salieri resents this tion prevents mentioning every‘filthy little thing’ receiving one individually, but congratulations to all actors.

God’s gift of genius.

The subtle grandeur of Salieri‘s jealousy, betrayal, lies and attempted seduction of George Tranter’s set design, Mozart’s wife Constanze, complimented by Deryk eventually become a war with Hartwick’s lighting, is perfect for creating a lavish setting God, through Mozart.

Bruce Akers’s artistic, mas- without detracting from charterly direction ensures this acters, and bravo to the HTC compelling, beautifully staged wardrobe team for the magnifiproduction explores its full po- cent costumes.

This is a first class show – tential for drama, humour, irony ● Nightline radio show co-host Philip Brady was don’t miss it. and emotion. guest of honour at a party on Sunday to celebrate Performances: Until SepThe wonderful cast is the one-year anniversary of his breaking a hip at a tember 27 at 8.00pm headed by Angelo De Cata as Hong Kong hotel. The cake, with a model of Philip Venue: Heidelberg Theatre, Antonio Saliero. De Cata’s with walking frame on marble steps, was prepareed 36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna. outstanding, riveting perforby Ab Fab Cakes of Kew. The party was held at the Tickets: $25/$22. mance in this powerful role reOlive Jar restaurant operated by Giovanni and Terese Bookings: 9457 4117 or affirms his fast-growing repuMico in Rathdowne St, Carlton. tation as one of Melbourne’s htc.org.au

Philip is looking hip

Review by Cheryl Threadgold

● Andrew Raiskums ■ Leading Melbourne chamber choir Gloriana can be depended upon to offer something different, and melodious and sung at the high standard for which the choir is known.

Their concert on Sunday (Sept. 28), entitled Glorious Hill, will be a mix of traditional and contemporary, with works by well-known classical choral composers Tavener, Whitacre, Bryars and others.

Highlights of the program include Eric Whitacre's SainteChapelle, a work inspired by the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and Sir John Tavener's Funeral Canticle.

The program also features Glorious Hill by English composer Gavin Bryars, Arvo Pärt's Fratres and highlights from the Red Book of Montserrat.

Choral performance needs a good acoustic, and the performance venue Sacred Heart Church in Carlton definitely ticks that particular box.

Gloriana artistic director Andrew Raiskums was on a mission when he planned this program.

"The main work in this program is Sir John Tavener's Funeral Canticle that Tavener wrote for the memorial service of his own father- and music that was memorably heard in Terrence Malick's film The Tree of Life. This concert also features a performance of Arvo Pärt's iconic Fratres, one of the most beautiful programs of music I have yet put together.

It's been an absolute joy to rehearse and I know it's going to be something very special"." Raiskums enthused.

Venue: Sacred Heart Church, cnr Rathdowne and Pelham Sts, Carton. Booking details: www.gloriana.com.au or call 98319 0942.

- Julie Houghton

The Mesh

● Rosie Lockhart, Olga Makeeva and Kevin KiernanMolloy can be seen in The Mesh at Red Stitch Theatre, opening October 15. More details in the Observer Showbiz section.

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014 - Page 9

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Court Roundsman

No kids permit for drug offender

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

Crazy For You

Briefs Tribunal

■ A proceeding between the Australian Islamic Mission Incorporated and the Greater Bendigo City Council over a property at Rowena St, Bendigo East, is due to be held at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal starting Monday, December 1. It is estimated the hearing will take three days.

Caught

■ Police found a bit more than they bargained for after a random intercept in Melbourne CBD uncovered unsavoury items.

A Mercedes Benz was travelling south on Swanston St when it was pulled over due to time prohibitions on the street just before 5am.

Police discovered a firearm, drugs, shotgun shells, a machete, batons and knuckle dusters.

A 29-year-old Craigieburn man wasassisting Police with their enquiries, while a 29-year-old Campbellfield man, a 31-year-old Campbellfield man and a 28year-old Epping man have been released pending further enquiries.

■ Peter Hunt, 72, who has repeated drug related convictions, has been refused a ‘Working With Children’ permit by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Deputy President Heather Lambrick.

Hunt took the case to VCAT after being refused the permit by the Department of Justice.

Hunt was found guilty in 1997 of trafficking amphetamines.

The Tribunal was told that Hunt was manufacturing amphetamines from a clandestine lab in a shed of a property. Drug Squad members executed a search warrant, and 10 litres of liquid amphetamine was found.

“Such offending is relevant to child-related work because children are (indirectly) affected by the largescale manufacture of amphetamines.

“Whilst Mr Hunt may not himself have given drugs or alcohol or any other substance directly to children, it is likely that some ended up in the hands of children or that drug affected adults interacted negatively with children,” Ms Lambrick said.

The Tribunal heard that the offences occurred in 1996. “However, this offending was no an isolated episode in serious drug-related offending on a regular basis from 1990 to 2009. Mr Hunt has been a long-term offender.”

Ms Lambrick said the County Court had imposed a jail sentence of three years and six months. In July 2012, he was snetence to a minimum jail sentence of two years, 11 months.

He told the Tribunal he now leads a quiet life, growing vegetables and making beer.

Julia’s re-invention

● The Piano Girls in Babirra Musical Theatre’s Crazy For You are Erica Grove (left), Nina Geoghegan and Tiffany Pickthall.

Photo: Craig Wiltshire ■ Babirra Music Theatre presents Crazy For You from October 10-25 at the Whitehorse Centre, Whitehorse Rd, Nunawading.

The show is directed by Tyler Hess, with musical direction by Danny Forward and choreography

by Craig Wiltshire.

This high-energy, all-singing, all-dancing musical features the songs of George and Ira Gershwin.

The story moves between Broadway and Deadrock Nevada with hilarious plot twists, mistaken identify and big tap-dancing numbers.

Based on the 1930s show Girl Crazy, it won the Tony Award for best musical in 1992. Well-known songs include Gershwin classics such as I Got Rhythm, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Someone To Watch Over Me and many more.

Bookings: www.babirramusictheatre.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Concerns over Caulfield ■ VictorianAuditor-General John Doyle has detailed serious concerns with the management and oversight of the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve.

He says the broader community is missing out on entitlements in favour of racing interests.

Doyle is making 15 recommendations to address the findings from the audit.

“I visited the reserve myself to better understand the issues raised by community groups and other stakeholders about the extent to which the reserve is available for the community’s use and enjoyment.

“I noticed that public access areas were not welcoming or easily accessed, with poor signage both at

Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

● John Doyle

entrances and within the reserve.

“Despite a reported $1.8 million upgrade to the centre of the reserve, public space within the reserve is not easy to reach and the recreational facilities are limited. The extent to which these facilities are used is not clear.”

The audit examined the effectiveness of the management of the Caulfield Racecourse Reserve by trustees appointed for this purpose and the oversight provided by the Department of Environment and Primary Industries. It assessed whether the trustees have applied sound management principles in their decision-making and adhered to good governance arrangements.

Just Briefly ■ The Australian Centre for the Moving Image is presenting a collection of landmark Polish films curated by the accomplished director in Martin Scorsese Presents: Masterpieces of Polish Cinema. It runs from October 5-26.

■ Tickets go on sale on Friday for the Mariah Carey concert to be staged at Rod Laver Arena on Friday, November 7. On the next day Carey will appear at A Day On The Green at Rochford Wines in the Yarra Valley.

■ The Arts Centre Melbourne has brought down a $2.9 million surplus in its annual report tabled in State Parliament by Arts Minister Heidi Victoria. Some 3376 performances were staged before 3.1 million people in the 12 months.

■ What’s with the reinvention of former Prime Minister Julia Gillard?

There she was with Ray Martin last night (Tues.) on Channel 9’s A Current Affair.

Soon she is launching a book. But the real angst is at the Richmond Football Club where she is booked to be a guest speaker. Not all Tigers are happy!

● Julia Gillard

What’s new pussycat?

● Tom Jones

■ Sir Thomas Jones Woodward (Tom Jones) is singing at the AFL Grand Final This Saturday at the MCG ... but first he will be entertaining at an intimate show at the Forum Theatre tonight (Wed.).

The Barrel hears another Grand Final singer Mike Brady could have a new version of Up There Cazaly ready for Saturday.

Didn’t see funny side ■ A 3AW mole says The Age newspaper was less than impressed when John Blackman remarked last week on the thickness of the Wednesday edition “with all those ads”.

Apparently some of the newspaper bosses are a bit touchy about how the size of the paper has shrunk as advertising has rapidly disappeared from the daily.

● John Blackman

Barrel Bullets ■ Did the Financial Review receive a solictor’s letter from a Melbourne businessman who says he is not facing the legal action alleged by the newspaper?

■ Sydney critics have not welcomed The King And I which the same enthusiasm as their Victorian colleagues.Critic Cassie Tongue of the Aussie Theatre website claims that the show was a “crushing disappointment”.

ABC hunts savings ■ There is talk that ABC boss Mark Scott will cut budgets in Melbourne and regions around Australia in a bid to cut back on expenses now that the Federal Government is keeping a more watchful eye on Aunty’s spending. Instead of cutting money from Melbourne, The Barrel has to ask why taxpayers’ money is spent on airing the Jimmy Fallon Tonight Show from the BNC network.

● Jimmy Fallon

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014

A MUST FOR MARE OWNERS

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Francesca is a favourite

● Francesca Cumani at her wedding last month to Ron Archibald. Photo: Ed Archibald/Instagram ■ I make no secret of my love for the spring racing season in Melbourne. It is a beautiful time of year and the quality of horses competing in the Group 1 and Classic races is outstanding.

Channel 7 does a marvellous job with its racing broadcasts and each year brings together a terrific team of experts to help viewers find some winners.

Francesca Cumani has become one of my favourite commentators thanks to her vast knowledge of the international racing scene.

She brings style, elegance and intelligence to her role.

Francesca is the daughter of top international trainer Luca Cumani and, along with her Channel 7 contract, works for CNN covering major race meetings around the world.

Although based in England, Francesca has been warmly embraced

by Australian TV viewers and now is something of an adopted Aussie, having wed Australian polo player Rob Archibald in Tuscany last month.

Rob hails from New South Wales, is an internationally recognised polo player and in 2009 was voted among polo's ‘Hottest Horsemen'’

by Vanity Fair magazine.

Greg’s funny, tender story ■ He is better known as a stand-up comedian, but Greg Fleet impressed with his performance in This Is Not A Love Song which opened at the Melbourne Fringe Festival on Friday night.

Greg wrote the play about love and memory and stars in it alongside Tegan Mulvany and Shane Adamczak.

Michael de Grussa provides a musical soundtrack that is wall to wall with greatest hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s. You walk away with music in your head.

The story is funny, tender and sad as it works through the question of are our memories factual or just a re-creation of what we want to remember. And there is an unexpectedly huge shout out to Daryl Braithwaite and his version of the song The Horses.

Darryl needs to see this show!

This Is Not A Love Song is playing at the North Melbourne Town Hall from September 19-30 and October 1-4.

For tickets visit melbournefringe.com.au or call 9660 9666.

● Tegan Mulvany, Greg Fleet and Shane Adamczak

Good luck for the Garryowen

PO BOX 5803, CAIRNS, QLD 4870 Ph/fax (07) 4053 2379 Mobile 0417 633 684 Email: info@magicbreed.com.au www.magicbreed.com.au

■ The Royal Melbourne Show is upon us again and what super family fun it offers. There really is something for everyone at the show.

For those with an interest in horses (yes, that is me!) the Garryowen turnout is a must.

For 80 years the Garryowen Turnout has been recognised as the premier equestrienne event for ladies in Australia.

The event celebrates excellence in the horse, saddlery, costume and riding ability. It is quite a fascinating judging process to watch.

The Garryowen Turnout is named in memory of the horse Garryowen, whose owner Violet Murrell, a leading equestrienne of her time, died while trying to save him from a stable fire in 1934.

Best of luck to all those taking part in the Garryowen, which will be held at the Coca-Cola Arena at Royal Melbourne Showgrounds from 10.30am today. (Wed., Sept. 24) ● Fiona Byrne is a former journalist and is the Public Relations Manager at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins.

Fiona@fionabyrne.com.au

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014 - Page 11

Love This City! with with

Fiona Byrne Guest Columnist

Silvana, face of Spring fashion

● Silvana Lovin with her husband Mark Philippoussis and their son Nicholas.

Gleeful moments ■ Glee star Lauren Potter brought great joy to her Australian fans during an eight-day trip Down Under to support the e.motion21 organisation.

Lauren, 24, plays cheerleader Becky Jackson on the wildly popular US series.

Lauren, who has Down syndrome, has become an inspiration for people with disabilities and holds a place on US President Barack Obama’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.

Lauren co-hosted the e.motion21 Annual Dance Spectacular at Camberwell Grammar on Sunday with Tim Campbell.

The pair got into the spirit of the occasion, busting out a few dance moves on stage to the delight of the audience.

E.motion21 is a not-for-profit volunteer organisation that provides dance and fitness programs for children and young adults with Down syndrome.

The Dance Spectacular featured performances from e.motion21 centres in regional and metropolitan Victoria.

Les Mis 100th show

● Silvana Lovin – the face of the City of Stonnington Spring Fashion Runway.

Photos: Fiona Hemilton

Heston donates Fat Duck dinners ■ If you are not keen on going into a ballot for seats at Heston Blumenthal's restaurant in Melbourne then I suggest you keep an eye on what three charities are planning to do with their gifted Fat Duck dining experience.

Blumenthal donated a dinner for four at the chef's table at the Fat Duck Melbourne to each of the Starlight Foundation, the Magpie Nest and the Snowdome Foundation while in Melbourne last week.

It was smart gesture of goodwill and provides each charity with a terrific fundraising opportunity.

With dinner set at $525 a head excluding drinks, those tickets are a fundraising dream. ● Heston Blumenthal (centre) with The Fat Duck ballot opens on October 8 and Major Brendan Nottle and David runs until October 26. The restaurant will open Emerson representing Magpie Nest.

Photo: Fiona Hamilton at Crown on February 3.

● Silvana wearing John Cavil ■ Glowing mum and budding artist Silvana Lovin made a glamorous return to her home town of Melbourne last week to take to the catwalk for the City of Stonnington's Spring Fashion Runway.

Silvana, who had a 14-year modelling career in Australia, is based in the US these days with her husband, tennis player, Mark Philippoussis and their cherished eight-monthold son, Nicholas.

It was the opportunity to be the face of Stonnington's Spring Fashion Runway and support designers such as Carla Zampatti and John Cavil that lured her home for a lightning visit.

“The Spring Fashion Runway was the first time I had been back on a runway for a few years; I was a little nervous,'' Silvana said.

“I always get a few butterflies in my tummy.''

Silvana said marriage and motherhood had brought her enormous joy.

“It is the best thing I have ever done,'' she said of having Nicholas.

“Family is a big thing for me. I have always looked forward to being a mum. It is just a blessing. I am so happy and he is a happy baby.''

Apart from her family, the model mum's other great passion is art. She is a talented painter and is working towards staging her first solo exhibition in Melbourne next year.

“I have been painting all my life and wanted to be an artist when I was little,'' she said.

“It was Mark who inspired me when we first started seeing each other to pick it up again.

“He set up an area for me next to his table in his studio. I have got some beautiful pieces completed and have also been doing some commissions in the States. It is something I really love and would love to have an exhibition in Australia.''

Last week also saw respected photographer Monty Coles and architect Piero Paolo Gesualdi inducted into the Stonnington Fashion Hall of Fame.

● Luke Joslin,Kerrie Anne Greenland, David Mann and Liam McIlwain from Les Miserables Photo: Fiona Hamilton ■ The magnificent production of Les Miserables currently playing at Her Majesty's Theatre celebrated its 100th show on Saturday.

This really is a show not to be missed. It offers an emotional journey like few other productions and is a fitting showcase for some terrific Australian talent.

Three members of the Les Miserables cast shared stories of the hit show with 3AW prizewinners at an exclusive afternoon tea at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins last week.

Hosted by 3AW's David Mann, Kerrie Anne Greenland, (Eponine) Luke Joslin (Grantaire/Bamatabois) and Liam McIlwain (dance captain) spoke about life behind the scenes in the world of Les Miserables and the closeness of the cast.

Greenland, for whom Les Miserables is her first major professional production, spoke of her shock of landing the career-making role of Eponine. ``I was working as a waiter on a boat on Sydney Harbour,'' she said.

“I was getting ready to go on the boat, I was doing up my tie I think, when the call came saying I had been offered the role. I just started to cry. We are now 100 shows in and still sometimes I am surprised I am doing something like this with my life.''

Greenland also revealed a talent for impersonations. She is working on a cabaret show based on the life and songs of Judy Garland.

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Melbourne People

● Laura Fitzpatrick, Cameron Thomas ■ Composer Jason Robert Brown would surely be delighted with the excellent cast and orchestra bringing his musical drama Parade to Melbourne audiences until September 28.

The Collective presents the first Australian professional production of this powerful show at fortyfivedownstairs, under James Cutler’s direction, and Cameron Thomas’s musical direction.

A true story set in Marietta, Georgia, Parade opens with the American Civil War, fast-forwarding to 1913 and the Confederate Memorial Day Parade.

Feeling socially isolated due to his religion, Brooklyn upbringing and education, Jewish pencil factory manager Leo Frank works on the holiday, and is eventually found guilty of the rape and murder of thirteen old employee Mary Phagan..

Beautifully balancing Frank’s tragic situation is wife Lucille’s unwavering love and support amid twisted truths, political injustice, religious intolerance and mass hysteria.

Cameron Thomas’s fabulous orchestra renders thirtyfive songs and musical numbers, including up-beat rhythms, blues, spirituals and hymns, which provide interesting contrast to the serious narrative.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Opening Night: ‘Parade’ Fortyfivedownstairs Photos: Michael J Wilkie

● David Price, Emma Jones and Alex Rathgeber

Timothy Springs (Jim Conley/Newt Lee) presents a showstopper number, and strong performances are also enjoyed from Tod Strike (Hugh Dorsey), Amelia Christo (Mrs Phagan/Sally Slaton), Andrew Doyle (Frankie Epps), Cle Morgan (Minola McKight),David Price (Tom Watson), Jemma Plunkett (Mary Phagan),, Paul Dawber (Judge Roan) and ensemble Michelle Smitheram, Emma Jones and Bonnie Page.

The show’s staging disappoints at times, with blocked audience vision diminishing full appreciation of perfor● Laura Fitzpatrick (Lucille Frank) and Luigi Lucente mances, not helped by unevenly tiered seating. Action set (Leo Frank) in Parade at fortyfivedownstairs until against the far wall is impossible for all patrons to see, parSeptember 28. ticularly past concrete columns.

Parade is a memorable theatre experience, showcasing David Harford’s innovative choreography and Jason Bovaird’s evocative lighting design complement the stellar, our wonderful local performing, musical and creative talents. A show not to be missed. vocally strong cast.

Performances: Until September 28 Luigi Lucente delivers a superb portrayal of Leo Frank, Times: Wed – Sat at 8.00pm, Sun at 7.00pm embodying his gentleness, then transforming seamlessly to Venue: fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne seducer in Come Up to My Office.

Tickets: $45/$40.

Laura Fitzpatrick is gently appealing as Lucille Frank, Bookings: 9662 9966 or www.fortyfivedownstairs.com and mega-talented Cameron MacDonald is terrific as Gov- Review by Cheryl Threadgold ernor Slaton and Britt Craig.

PARADE

● Cameron McDonald, Frank Hansen, Michelle Smitheran,

● Laura Fitzpatrick and Luigi Lucente (see above)

● Brad Murphy , Jemma Plunkett, Andrew Doyle

● Simon Stephens, Laura Fitzpatrick, Glen Dalton Hosking

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014 - Page 13

Confidential Melbourne

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

Council employee fails to prove back pain claim

Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets

Death of a show title

● The late Arthur Miller ■ A play being staged at the Melbourne Fringe season at Speakeasy has been ordered to change its name.

The Arthur Miller Estate has objected to Death Of A Salesman: The Sitcom using the name of the 1949 play written by the American playwright.

Timothy Jones, spokesman for the production, says it is now known as The Loman Empire: The Sitcom - An Unauthorised Satire Of Death Of A Salesman.

The production is being staged until Sunday (Sept. 28) at the Northcote Town Hall Studio 1. It is being presented by Darebin Arts’ Speakeasyt and SeeSault.

Set in a television studio, the audience views onset and off-set during a live taping of The Loman Empire television show.

■ Frankston City Council employee Jason Hall has lost his bid to have a spontaneous onset of back pain attributed to his job.

Hall used lawyers Maurice Blackburn to bring his case before Magistrate Simon Garnett.

Hall, 25, 200cm in height, commenced work at Frankston Council in 2010 as an Animal Support Officer.

He alleged that whilst sitting at his desk, he sustained the injuries consistent with a disc protrusion, requiring surgery, and requiring him to be incapacitated for work.

Hall lodged a Workcover claim more than half-a-year after the alleged incident. Liability was denied.

Hall lodged a further Workcover claim earlier this year, alleging injury in the course of employment as a consequence of the heavy lifting of animals.

Hall called evidence from general surgeon Mr Brearley, as well as Council staff. A number of documents, medical records and reports were tendered by the parties.

The Court heard that Hall’s job involved doorknocking to ascertain

whether animals were present and whether they were registered, preparing warrants, issuing infringement notices, preparing Court documents and collecting animals including dogs, cats, chickens, sheep, lyrebirds, cows and horses.

His work included loading animals into a van, taking them to the pound, involving manual handling and lifting of varying weights and difficulty.

On the morning in question me “felt a twinge” in his lower back. waking later week with back pain, right leg pain, numbness, pins and needles. It was arranged for him to see a Council physiotherapist.

A CT scan showed disc herniation, and surgery took place in the

Ex-Digger loses sleep apnoea case

following year (2012). His employment was ultimately terminated in July last year, after which he had further surgery He had exhausted his sick leave and annual leave entitlements under an income protection policy rather than claiming Workcover.

He said he was “young and baive and did want any animosity”. He lodged his claim after receiving union and legal advice.

Hall denied telling a Council officer that the injury had occurred on the weekend, but may have said in a phone call that he had “hurt his back at home”.

Evidence came from physiotherapist Mr Fankhauser, GP Dr Wang, orthopaedic surgeon Mr Cunningham, and general surgeon Mr Brearley.

Mr Garnett said that although he found Hall gave an honest account, “there was a degree of re-construction in his evidence”.

“Mr Hall has failed to discharge the onus that on the balance of probabilities he sustained injury which arose out of or in the course of his employment.”

Rumour Mill

Whispers

Private

● Jessica Wright ■ The Saturday Age is finally taking social news seriously, and welcomed Jessica Wright to pen a Private Melbourne column.

Sydney Morning Herald scribe Andrew Hornery, of Private Sydney fame, pitched the idea several years ago.

Banned

■ Which Victorian newspaper has banned a writer from attending the Spring Racing Carnival as an official representative of the publication? A reporter is making a habit of being escorted off premises by security guards.

To Court

‘Selfie’ explosion Hear It Here First

In the name of Jesus

● Robbie Williams near Donna Demaio ■ Once upon a time, media reporters would attend news conferences with the aim of asking a question that no other journalist had constructed.

The aim was to bring a perspective of the interviewee to the consumer that no other reporter had captured. The reader/viwer/listener was always at the forefront of the project.

Today, the ‘pressers’ are often occasions where the scribes seek to become part of the picture, asking for ‘selfie’ photos with the star, or having autographs signed.

Now, Facebook and Twitter is full of messages from journalists influenced by free trips and tickets, and seemingly endless champagne top-ups. Has the task of journalism been forgotten?

Quickly forgotten ■ It must be sad to have been a Melbourne name, to have a birthday, with few caring to remember.

■ Mark Domjahn, who served in the AustralianArmy for more than 20 years, has failed in his bid to have his sleep apnoea condition linked with his defence service.

Bernard McCabe, Senior Member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal of Australia, said that Domjahn had to prove that he was obese at the time of clinical onset of the condition.

Mr McCabe said he was satisfied that Domjahn did not have the necessary Body Mass Index of 30 or higher.

Domjahn was discharged with severe obstructive sleep apnoea in 2008. His weight has lifted dramatically to 84kg at the time, at the same time there were a series of restrictions on his physical activities.

Mr McCabe said that if military records were to be believed, Domjahn’s height was volatile, varying from 163cm to 168cm: “Those measurements cannot all be right.”

His BMI in 2008 was calculated to be 29, falling “just short” of the necessary figure.

“I am not satisfied on the limited (and incomplete evidence before me that he experienced a clinical worsening of that condition following diagnosis,” Mr McCabe said.

“That second proposition needs to be examined more fully before a positive conclusion can be reached.”

■ The Society of Jesus In Victoria has asked for a Melbourne Magistrates’ Court pre-hearing conference tomorrow Thurs.) where it is due to allege a civil claim of “breach of contract/agreement (non payment)” against Jane Bion also known as Catalano.

Old girls’ reunion ■ Several ‘Old Boys’ have their noses out of joint that the ‘Old Girls’ of Channel 9 are holding a ladies only reunion on Sunday, October 26 at the Tower Hotel. Not to worry, the Melbourne Observer has been asked along to produce a photographic coverage of the event.

Thirsty in 3199 ■ Was that an Australian showbiz legend looking around Frankston in the wee hours of Saturday morning for a quiet nightcap?

E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au

■ King David School has requested a Melbourne Magistrates’ Court session tomorrow (Thu.) where it is due to allege a civil claim against Arlene Joffe for services rendered.

Penalty ■ Westpac Banking Corporation has paid $20,400 in penalties after the Australian Securities and Investments Commission issued two infringement notices for potentially misleading statements contained in promotional material.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014

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Ash On Wednesday

■ Melbourne television pioneer Barry McQueen has passed away.at the age of 82.

He was a newsman at the ABC,ATV-0 and GTV9. Colleague Brian Smith lamented his passing and said a funeral service will be held at Le Pine, Camberwell, at 2w.30pm on Monday (Sept. 29).

Barry was the face of TV news at the newly opened Channel 0 for its first eight years from 1964.

He was husband of Barbara, father of Catherine and Michael, step father of Michael, Mark and Kerryn.

Barry will be remembered for many innovative ways of presenting TV news in its early days. ● Barry McQueen Photo courtesy of Chris Keating

Get well soon ‘H’

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Melbourne TV Memories

● Harry Beitzel ■ It’s AFL Grand Final week, and we have an update on our Footy Week editor@melbourneobserver.com.au contributor, Harry Beitzel, with Ash Long, Editor who has been on the sick list this season with a nasty “For the cause that lacks assistance, eye cancer.

‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance His son, Brad, tells us: For the future in the distance, “Just saw him and he's And the good that we can do” looking OK, weight good, voice good, and givin' cheek.”

Harry is 87, and lives on Sydney’s Central Coast. He wearing an eye patch - and that has nothing to do with being a oneeyed Swans supporter.

“H” has a message for his followers on Page 45 of this week’s Observer. ■ “Every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity an obligation; every possession a duty.”

Observer Treasury

Thought For The Week

Footy Curmudgeon memories ■Observer “People usually get at odds with one another

■ Thanks for the many messages following last whenever they try to get even.” week’s Melbourne Observer 45 Years souvenir.

Helen Letos of Port Melbourne wrote: “Con- ■ "I will not be afraid of many thousands of people gratulations to you Ash, who have set themselves against me all around."

- Psalm 3:6 and the Melbourne Observer, on your 45-year an- Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. niversary.

The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, “It was interesting to by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to see and read about some publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. old faces and events from Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Melbourne Observer shall days gone by.

“What a great photo of in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any Jezza taking yet another person or body due to information provided. The information is spectacular mark, which provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responfor assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content. as a Blues supporter from sibility No inference of a party’s guilt or innocence should be made by way back, I was lucky publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be enough to see quite often changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the at footy games.” action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.

Text For The Week

■ I'd best preface this article with a statement. This is about the television union of the 1960s and 70s. It is in no way a reflection or comment on the TV union of today.

I have no idea of how that body functions in these times. Furthermore, I do not have any problem with the principles of unionism. My opinions of what took place back then are not based on the principle, merely the operational way it worked. I didn't agree with that then, and I still don't.

I'm pretty sure that Lech Walesa and his Solidarity movement wouldn't have sent me any Christmas cards in the late seventies.

Now I'm hoping that designer concrete boots won't arrive on my doorstep. Unless they have fashion heels.

I was on staging at HSV-7. in the mid 1960's when suddenly, out of the blue, a strike was called.

I can't remember the reason but I guess it was to do with money and conditions. Most strikes are.

I have a vivid recollection of the union members meeting at the Trades Hall and a fire and brimstone union rep addressing the massed gathering.

When it came time to vote for or against continuing, it was based on a show of hands. I was probably 19 or 20, green like the green, green grass of home, and had my arm jerked up by a floor manager of the timein favour of striking.

I didn't want to go on strike. I liked my job and was happy enough earning my £8-10 a week. But I was given no choice. I was bullied into going along with the rabid mob, who by then were all for pulling the plug and getting across the road to the bar of the pub as soon as possible.

After a period of time on our forced holiday, I was notified that we were all going back to work.

The result was us, nil. Them, nil. Nothing gained, nothing lost, except for the wages of people with families, plus expenditure at the pubs discussing the plight of the downtrodden worker.

I didn't have a wife or kids or a mortgage and lived at home, so I was least affected. But what I did have was an opinion. And I thought it out all by myself.

My opinion was that I didn't like strikes and further more, I didn't like voting with a show of hands.

In short, I didn't like the way things were done. It seemed to me that people could be easily influenced to go the way the leaders wanted them to go and that a secret vote where you could decide for yourself, without being bullied, was a better way to know what people really wanted.

Fast forward to the late seventies: Everybody out of the building at seven o'clock and gather in the car-park for a stop work meeting.

That was the directive and as a union member I obeyed. It was decided that a general meeting would take place the following week, I think, again at the Trades Hall.

As it turned out I went on annual leave that same week, but made it my business to attend the meeting anyway.

The mood on the day reminded me of what had happened years before. Lots of bravado, sentiments of not letting the bastards grind us down, we know our rights and the kind of gruff camaraderie that stems from thoughts of foaming beer and councils of war.

To that end, the speakers brought their considerable oratory, ticking off the possible actions one by one, and rejecting them, until the final show-of-hands conclusion.

I worked at a different TV channel, most of the faces were different too, as was the time, yet I feared the outcome would be the same as it had a decade and more before when people were spoiling for a fight and primed by the very people they paid to egg them on.

I didn't want to be one of the few who voted not to strike and thus openly resist the masses, nor endure their derision.

I heard the shouts and rumbles of triumph from the shelter of a toilet cubicle. That was the moment I decided to resign from the union as soon as I returned from holidays.

Two weeks passed with the barricades manned; enthusiasm fueled by passion and beverage.

By sheer coincidence I still remained on payed leave, writing and painting and keeping in touch with a few work friends who were beginning to feel the financial pinch.

Turn To Page 15

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Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014 - Page 15

Melbourne TV Memories

By Kenneth Mulholland

Being a scab during the TV strike ● From Page 14 While I was writing, my mind was absorbed with the task, but when I was painting, standing in the sunlit hall at my easel, I had plenty of time to think.

I wasn't sure what to do. In principle I had already divorced myself from the strike, while still a union member.

I felt sure that all those on strike were hurting, as were their families, and I guessed that management, right or wrong, would hold out.

The channel would stay on air. And finally, I wondered if I had an axe to grind?

I may not have been earning a bundle, but I wasn't starving, and by then, with rising personal baggage of my own making, I was grateful to have a job.

The strike still held days before I

● Peter Couchman was due to return from leave. I rang the channel and spoke to management.

I told them that I didn't agree with what had happened and that I would return to work if they wanted me to.

But that I would not cross a picket line.

Management told me that they were agreeable to my return on those conditions.

My leave ended and I drove to the channel.

The pickets at the security gates were gone. I drove through. ATV was still functioning on a long, slow pulse.

For the next few days, until the union finally advised staff to go back to work, I worked as a strike breaker, a scab.

I never crossed a union line, was never in confrontation.

And tendered my resignation immediately. I cannot recall that the staff made any gains from their action. I do recall that union action paled for some time thereafter. And I was sympathetic to those who lost over the journey. Me? I don't think any one realised my reaction and follow-up actions.

On a lighter front, my resignation was accepted, which made me feel, at least, slightly easier in conscience.

And on an even lighter front, I got to work with the likes of Colin Mitchell and Bob Collins on camera in Studio A. These two blokes, coming out of retirement as cameramen of the 60s were a riot.

I think we were doing the Dixie Duncan-produced Peter Couchman Show in Studio A and they were living their moments of triumph as 60's cameramen.

The South Aussie director patiently kept using me on camera 3, as I covered their conspicuous rear ends and the dead ends they wound themselves into.

Next time? Well, that depends ..

- Kenneth Mulholland

Just Briefly ■ The BBC has asked the Melbourne Observer to assist with its 1970 files to help prepare an episode of Coast. The show is assembling an episode on great bridge failures, and researcher Natasha Filer is looking to inspect the newspaper’s files when she visits on October 2. Copies of the newspaper’s files are now held by the State Library of Victoria.

■ More than 150 people will be on stage for Victorian Opera’s The Big Sing at 7.30pm on Monday, October 13, 7:30pm at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne.

The Big Sing is concert of popular opera choruses. community choirs from as far as Warragul, Bendigo and Stawell and the Victorian Youth Opera Chorus (VOYCE) on the stage of Hamer Hall will join together for the night.

Melbourne

Observer Life & Style

Put on your listening ears ■ Last week my column was full of grouches.

Fully justified how I felt at the time I sat down to write.

By way of an apology, I promised that it was my last grumble for a while.

Am I turning into a curmudgeon as a few more grey hairs are becoming evident?

I was hoping it was only a temporary situation, but now I’m not sure. But, here I go again.

It seems to me that nobody listens any more.

Is it the music that is pouring into their ears non-stop? Perhaps the human listening apparatus has become clogged by the sounds of a hundred banshees emanating incessantly from their beloved electronic device perpetually glued to their ear.

Always the latest model I add, but unfortunately, the sound of the spoken word from a human is not viable anymore.

Hold the line ■ Yesterday I spent hours on the phone trying to get some information from my old bank.

I hasten to add not Bendigo Bank.

My new bank answers the phone quickly.

They listen to my request and then ask me in easily understandable English if they can be of further assistance.

I almost cry with joy because someone is listening to me.

Not so this old bank that tells us that “ We are part of your family” in large letters blocking our television screen.

Well, they are not part of mine.

And the arrogance, suggesting that they are.

Phooey.

What really had steam coming out of my ears was after explaining to the woman on the other end of the line what department I required, I was put on to an extension, nothing to do with what I was after.

And five times I was transferred, and five times it was to the wrong department.

No -one listens ■ The last time I told the fellow who was the recipient of my wrath that I was not part of the bank’s family, and if he couldn’t listen to me, then he was in the wrong job.

I hung up; hopefully the non-listener had a big flea in his ear and went home with a huge headache.

That’s the problem. Nobody is listening.

And I won’t even talk about the difficulty of understanding the staff at call centres where English is not their first language.

To be fair, if you can get to first base with understanding them, they are more than helpful, and very polite.

But ears are strained trying to decipher their

Yvonne’s Column

a girl talk to her friend about what happened with her date, the night before.

And I used to worry about my radio program Sexually Speaking on a Saturday night. I always kept my finger on the panic button, just in case my producer missed it.

It was Playschool compared to some of the conversations one overhears on a mobile conversation.

These days standing up and giving your seat to a pregnant woman is not difficult. Nothing is hidden from view today, so it is evident when a woman is pregnant, so get off your butt, stop talking on your mobile phone, put on your adult pants, and show some respect.

Gentle paw strokes with Yvonne Lawrence yvonne.lawrence@bigpond.com

‘Chinglish’. I’m no better off today than I was yesterday with a simple request to a simple question.

It’s not that nobody was home, but nobody was listening.

Please give a smile ■ I’ll make an effort and visit the bank next week and talk to someone no less than the manager. I can guarantee that he or she will listen.

I’ll front the dragon in his/her lair.

I do feel a bit of sympathy for people who have to deal with the public every day. The public can be rude, obnoxious, and quite dreadful at times.

But if you are the assistant behind the counter, a smile, that’s all I ask, a simple smile with your ears on full alert is surely not asking too much.

Perhaps it comes down to good old fashion manners.

I notice that it is always an older member of the public who will open a door for me. And I always thank him profusely.

Put on adult pants ■ Is there any way that a cone of silence can be put around a mobile phone like they had in the now extinct public phones, so that a conversation can’t be heard?

Scientists are doing great things in the world today, so surely my request would win a Nobel Prize for some boffin.

Some of the phone calls we are forced to hear are ‘R’ rated, or very sad, depending who you are listening to.

Perish the thought that I’ll never have to hear

■ Reading an item in a newspaper the other morning had me laughing with mirth, but nodding in agreeance.

It seems that … more than half of cat and dog owners regularly lose sleep because their pets keep them awake. It’s true.

And certainly true of my cat Moosh. His greatest mission in life is to wake Peter or me from a deep sleep if he thinks we have overslept.

The paws gently stroke the face, and if that doesn’t bring a response, he lets go with the loudest meow that could wake the entire street.

According to a UK survey, animal owners regularly lose sleep because of the antics of their cat or dog.

It causes stress, according to many owners.

The survey of 1000 cat and dog owners found that owners could lose many hours sleep due to their dog barking or their cat meowing.

The worst habit Moosh is trying at the moment is jumping back and forth from Peter and me in an effort to wake us.

House full of pets ■ Most of my animals have kipped down with us and slept all night. The only time they woke us was to go out in the morning for their AM pee.

I bet if I talked to most of the cat and dog owners in the world, the problem would be much the same.

Just talking about animals, and I become a normal thinking person – no sign of the curmudgeon that rears up when someone won’t listen.

I think I love animals more than most humans. I’d have a house full of pets of every kind.

Peter despairs of leaving this mortal coil before I do because he said it would be a zoo in a trice. I tell him that I could never find another husband like him, so animals are my obvious

choice. It doesn’t go over well, but he gets the message.

Cupcake, my grandmother possum, has brought her latest addition to show us. The baby, as yet unnamed, clings to Cupcake's back as she climbs down the huge elm tree every night to get her dinner.

There used to be a whole dynasty waiting for their meal at night, but I don’t know what has happened, but Cupcake seems to be the regular diner every evening.

Wildlife lover

■ Nor have the Ninjas been scurrying over the roof lately.

The Ninjas are the bands of ringtail possums that maraud and plunder any tree or plant that takes their fancy.

They will return now that trees and shrubs are in bud. Spring gets them going.

Please, let me have the pleasure of at least a couple of loquats this year. Every year, I wait just that few hours too long, and when I get up in the morning, they have been eaten.

If I phone my friend Jacqui French who is a gardener of note and knows just about everything, I bet she will have an answer.

‘Greenfingers’ French loves wildlife, gardening, cooking, writing, and just about everything that life provides. She’ll know.

Does my heart good

■ You can’t believe how terrific I feel just talking about animals and the garden.

It does my heart good to see so many spring flowers blooming, My other half always brings me in a bunch when he goes to collect the mail.

I suppose when the snail mail delivery slides around to three times a week, Peter will have to restrict his flower gathering.

It is rather nice though to see vases of flowers in the house that have been home grown.

If only I could find a way to display Wandering Jew. I’m just old enough to remember when Wandering Jew used to be put in Chianti bottles and displayed as indoor plants.

Any ideas how to get rid of it wandering everywhere. I think it’s getting its revenge because I wouldn’t let it rear its head in my garden ever – until I became house bound after my accident, and gardening was out of the question.

Enjoy your week.

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

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Royal South Street Eisteddfod – Ballarat ■ 2014 marks the fifth year in which Freemasons Victoria's Board of Benevolence has funded musical segments of the acclaimed Royal South Street Eisteddfod, arguably the benchmark of competition, particularly among youth, in Australia.

Now in its 120th year and originating in a private home in South Street, Ballarat at which competition in a handful of home crafts was the starting point, additional forms were gradually embraced and now comprise various musical forms, drama, dance, poetry among a host of other disciplines.

In approximately 1986, the Eisteddfod, a Welsh word meaning sitting, session or assembly, was accorded the pre-nominal Royal, acknowledging South Street's preeminent status.

In the years 2010 to 2013, one segment, the Festival of the Bands was supported by and known as the Freemasons Victoria Festival of the Bands, a competition of secondary school bands from across the state and was so popular among schools that in the past two years it has been divided into two segments one of which is for general competition and the other for higher grade performance bands.

In 2014, a new segment has been introduced under the name of Freemasons Victoria Festival of String, although these instruments are well catered for in the Bands competition.

Recently, Chair of the Freemasons Victoria Board of Benevolence, Frank Fordyce ,was accompanied by

● Deputy Grand Master Don Reynolds Deputy Grand Master Don Reynolds where they attended the launch of the 2014 Eisteddfod at the iconic Victorian era venue Her Majesty's Theatre where most of the musical disciplines are performed.

Frank said that it is very pleasing to report that many Freemasons in the Ballarat area donate their time to supporting this wonderful annual event.

Cobram opens its doors - don’t miss out Mason and Mayor

● Photo: Cobram Courier ● Robin Tisbury is joined by members of the Cobram Lodge at his installation as the new Worshipful Master.

● (Councillor) Wor. Bro. John Phillips ■ (Councillor) Worshipful Brother John Phillips can now add His Worship the Mayor to his title.

On September 12, John was inducted Mayor of the City of Ballarat, having been elected to fill the vacancy left by the sudden resignation of the sitting Mayor.

John was elected a Councillor in March 2008. At his recent induction at the Town Hall, he was invested with the Mayoral Chain which combines the chains of the two original municipalities which came together in 1921 to form the City of Ballarat.

John was Initiated into Freemasonry at Learmonth Lodge in May 1988 and served as Master of the Lodge in 1994.

Ironically, the Foundation Master of this Lodge, John Baird, in 1894, was himself a municipal leader as the first President (Mayor) of the Shire of Ballarat John is involved with many groups including the Country Fire Authority, Victorian Farmers Federation, Landcare and the Ballarat Chinese Community, and as a Councillor, he sits on 16 Council committees.

At his induction as Mayor, he told guests his focus would be to increase communication and consultation with action groups and to keep them informed in the process of making decisions for Ballarat - new saleyards and a freight hub for the city are high on his agenda.

Living on a farming property at Windermere, 15 kilometres west of Ballarat, his family ties to the region span 160 years. With his wife Michelle, they raise cattle and cultivate crops and fodder.

John will seek to continue as Mayor when council elections come up in November.

The magnificent Mayoral Chain contains 34 ounces of gold and is on permanent display in the Gold Museum in Ballarat. It is taken out only under tight security, once a year for the induction of the new Mayor.

■ Robin Tisbury was installed as the Worshipful Master of the Cobram Lodge on Thursday, August 28.

The Lodge has been part of the Cobram community since 1921 and has been at its present site in Main St ever since.

Installation of the new master was carried out by Freemasons Victoria's Grand Master Hillel Benedykt with more than 50 members present.

The new master extends an invitation to all interested people to attend their next meeting on Thursday (Sept.

25) at the Cobram Masonic Centre at 8pm where he will give a talk about his 35 years spent working in the Queensland Jail and Corrections Service.

Those attending will be able to see inside the Masonic Centre, possibly for the first time, and ask questions about Freemasonry.

Please contact the Secretary of the Lodge, James Wilson, on 0400 542 141 for enquiries.

Donation to Ballarat charity

● Donation presentation from left: Brian Coffey, Worshipful Master Sturt-Buninyong United Lodge, Cliff Barclay from UnitingCare, and Doug Williams, Sturt- Buninyong United Lodge Treasurer.

■ Over many years Sturt-Buninyong United Lodge has supported a number of local charities and organisations and in conjunction with their social committee, and has raised more than $40, 000 in the past 15 years.

One of the charities that the Lodge supports is Uniting Care Ballarat. In recent times the Lodge has been supporting their Outreach Program to provide blankets to the needy during the cold winter months.

On other occasions, the Lodge has been an active supporter of the Breeze Way Meals Program.

Recently the Lodge was pleased to present UnitingCare with a $500 donation to support this year's winter blankets program.

The donation was jointly supported financially by the Freemasons Victoria Board of Benevolence. Cliff Barclay from Uniting Care gratefully accepted the donation and expressed his thanks for the support that Freemasons Victoria gives to the work of the Uniting Care Outreach Centre.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014 - Page 17

West Hollywood

Hollywood is hot, hot, hot From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.

$10 million makeover ■ The Los Angeles Convention Centre (LACC) is set to have a huge US $10 million renovation in order to attract more events.

The years-long project started last month, working around shows, and would see a complete remodelling of a 299-seat theatre.

You would think they might add another seat to make it an even 300. The centre would also expand, in the form of a new stadium or other development project; depending on weather LA. is awarded a football team later this year.

The changes to the centre were reflected in the surrounding city, including new hotels and cultural offerings all fuelled by the city's surging popularity as a meetings and convention destination.

Hot for a different reason

■ Southern California's stifling heat wave has reached the triple digit mark after shattering records.

The first eight months of 2014 were the warmest on average in California's history since record keeping began in 1895.

The city of Riverside hit 113 degrees (45 Celsius) and the City of Woodland Hills hit 107 degrees (41 Celsius).

Here in West Hollywood, transformers blew and the city was plunged into darkness for a few hours. The Ramada felt the pressure with a full capacity hotel to cater for; the houseguests were treated with many extras to cool them down.

Always close to the news, the Managing Director of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, Alan Johnson, was hands-on through out the ordeal. KTLA News Channel 5 in Los Angeles interviewed him and he just might get his own talk show here.

Stay tuned for further bulletins.

● Managing Director Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, Alan Johnson, makes news on KTLA 5 Los Angeles.

Thanks to Brad Pitt ■ Trying to rid himself of harmful substances, Shia LaBeouf reportedly found refuge in fellow actor Brad Pitt.

The pair worked together on the upcoming World War II film Fury and Shia allegedly asked Pitt for guidance to deal with the stress from the worldwide fame.

The Transformers star is currently participating in an outpatient alcohol treatment program and the thought of embarrassing Brad keeps Shia away from the bottle.

Shia's real problems started a few months ago when the actor has a stint of drunken debaucheries, including picking a fight outside a strip club, peeing on an LA restaurant and getting kicked out of Cabaret.

US domestic travel booms ■ Airlines failed to add enough seats to keep pace with growing demand for air travel.

The airline industry continues to squeeze domestic passengers into cabins at record rates while adding more seats for high priced international flights.

The percentage of seats filled on domestic flights reached a record average of 87.4 per cent in June as airlines failed to add enough extra seats to keep pace with the growing demand for air travel.

Meanwhile, the load factor for international flights dropped to 84.9 per cent, from 86.9 per cent.

Now on Hollywood Blvd

Debbie Reynolds honour

GavinWood

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

Jennifer Aniston bares all

■ Actress and singer Katey Sagal received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame last week with many of her showbiz friends there to support her as well as fans of Sons of Anarchy and Married With Children.

Actors Ed O'Neill, Christina Applegate and David Faustino were the guest speakers.

In addition to acting, the Los Angeles native has been background singer for Bob Dylan, Olivia Newton-John, Etta James and Tanya Tucker and she was ‘Harlette’ with Bette Midler for three years.

Sagal has released a new album called Covered and her star is located at 7021 Hollywood Boulevard.

Mel Brooks put his hands and footprints in cement at the TCL Chinese Theatre last week a day before the 40th anniversary edition of Young Frankenstein, which he directed.

Speakers were his son, Max and his long life friend and fellow comedian, Carl Reiner. For more than 50 years Mel has directed and appeared in several movies and TV shows such as The Producers, Blazing Saddles, History of the World: Part 1, Spaceballs, Robin Hood: Men in Tights and The Little Rascals.

I am surprised that no one has ever thought of this before but it took a comic genius to come up with the extra finger in the cement.

Funny stuff, Mel. Brilliant. His hand and foot prints should now be easy to find in the theatre's forecourt with the extra finger, which is located at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard.

LA’s top dog since 1939 ■ For National Hot Dog Month I can only think of 'Pinks' just up Melrose from the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites.

This Iconic hot dog stand is celebrating 75 years of hot dog service. Yes, I hear you cry, 'Only in America' Hey, I laugh everyday with what happens here, as there is a show on every corner. You will see when you come over; it is as Sergeant Shultz says from Hogan's Heroes, "Very interesting".

You have a choice of 36 hot dog varieties: A dozen varieties of hamburgers: yummy fries and onion rings.

I haven't seen a 'low fat' hot dog there yet but I am still looking.

On La Brea and Melrose. Yummy.

Check out their website: www.pinkshollywood.com

● Debbie Reynolds ■ Legendary actress Debbie Reynolds will receive a Life Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild for her professional and humanitarian efforts.

The presentation will be made during the annual SAG Awards next January 25, 2015, which gives Debbie plenty of time in wardrobe to make the correct choices for the big night.

Debbie Reynolds starred in more than 50 films including Singin' In The Rain and The Unsinkable Molly Brown, two Broadway plays, two TV series and authored Unsinkable: A Memoir.

She recently played Liberace's mother in the Emmy-winning Behind The Candelabra, which starred Michael Douglas and Matt Damon.

Bond, James Bond ■ Having grown up watching the Ian Fleming-influenced James Bond series of movies like Dr. No, Goldfinger and From Russia With Love and now the latest offerings like Quantim of Solace and the 24th James Bond movie, two years ago, Skyfall, comes very exciting news, if you are a fan, like me, of 007.

There is a new movie about to go into production starring for his fourth starring role for Daniel Craig. Full production starts in December and they plan to roll out the latest Bond flick in November 2015.

● Jennifer Aniston ■ This is the first time Hollywood superstar; Jennifer Aniston has let her body go on screen.

In the movie, Cake, Jennifer wears no makeup, no hairdo as she plays a patient in a pain support group who encounters a drama.

Written by Patrick Tobin, Cake's' stellar cast includes Anna Kendricks, Britt Robertson, Lucy Punch, Sam Worthington, William H. Macy and his wife Felicity Huffman.

Jennifer consulted with medical friends and doctors to play this difficult role.

www.gavinwood.us

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

When planning your trip to Los Angeles, come and stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood.

Please mention 'Melbourne Observer' when you book and you will receive the Special Rate of the day.

Please contact: Joanna at info@ramadaweho.com See you at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites.

Happy Holidays, Gavin Wood.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, September 24, 2014

■ Betty Hutton was remarkable American singer and film actress. The first time I noticed Betty Hutton was in the film Annie Get Your Gun in 1950.

In later years she seemed to disappear from public life and I was always wondered what happened to her.

Elizabeth June Thornburg was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, in 1921.

When her father abandoned the family her mother raised ‘Betty’ and her older sister Marion.

Her mother changed their family name to ‘Hutton’. Betty began singing at the age of three during the prohibition period in her mother's speakeasy.

In their teenage years both Betty and Marion sang with the Vincent Lopez Orchestra.

In 1938 Marion became a regular vocalist with The Glenn Miller Band.

In 1939 Betty had a small role in the musical film Panama Hattie. Her first significant role was in The Fleet's In where she sang the hit song Arthur Murray Taught Me Dancing In A Hurry with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra.

During her recording career her hit songs included The Jitterbug, Doctor Lawyer Indian Chief and My Rocking Horse Ran Away.

When Judy Garland pulled out of the film Annie Get Your Gun due to ill health the role went to Betty.

She starred opposite Howard Keel and this

Whatever Happened To ...

Betty Hutton

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM was the best film of her career. She was marvellous as the sharpshooter Annie Oakley.

Some of her other films included The Miracle Of Morgan's Creek, And The Angels Sing, The Perils of Pauline, Red Hot and Blue and Lets Dance (with Fred Astaire).

Betty Hutton toured Australia in 1955. The West Melbourne Stadium had burnt down and her show was moved to Leggetts Ballroom in Prahran. Betty performed for an extra hour in the Melbourne show.

Sadly the tour was not a financial success for promoter Lee Gordon.

Her last major film was The Greatest Show On Earth which won the Academy Award for Best Film in 1952.

● Betty Hutton In 1959 she starred in the television situation comedy The Betty Hutton Show.

The plot was about ‘Goldie, a brash manicurist who suddenly inherits the estate of a wealthy customer and becomes guardian to his three children. The series only lasted for 30 episodes before it was cancelled.

Betty Hutton was married four times. Her first marriage was to Ted Briskin in 1945 - the marriage lasted for five years and they had two daughters.

In 1952 she married choreographer Charles O'Curran and when that marriage failed Betty married Alan W Livingston from Capitol Records (Alan later married actress Nancy Olson).

Her fourth and final marriage was to jazz trumpeter Pete Candoli in 1960 and they had a daughter. In the 1970s she played Miss Hannigan in the original Broadway production of Annie for a short period and Sarah Jessica Parker played ‘Annie’.

Betty had roles in television series but her career went into decline. Betty suffered from bouts of depression as a result of alcohol and pills.

She regained control of her life through rehabilitation and the support of a kind Catholic priest, Father Peter Maguire.

Betty became a devoted Catholic in her later years. Her last singing performance was on Juke Box Saturday Night on PBS in 1983.

Please watch it on YouTube if you want to see a great performer in concert.

In 1986 Betty went back to college and completed an arts degree. She gave occasional interviews in the early 2000s.

Betty Hutton died in 2007 at the age of 86 from colon cancer - what a great talent she was.

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.

She took the steak right off my plate

■ Probably the most famous stingray sting casualty was Steve Irwin, who paid for his encounter with his life I've heard of a few others - one particular fellow on the Hawkesbury years ago was just walking along in the shallows when he stepped on a barb, and the pain was so severe that he instantly passed out.

Fortunately a passer-by grabbed

him to prevent him drowning. I have experienced a couple of personal penetrations.

The first was from a black stingray as I was handling it in a net.

Whilst this caused some pain, it wasn't as severe as a sting I received from an eagle ray, which has a tiny sting right at the base of its thin, whiplike tail.

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My hand instantly swelled up to about the size of an orange, with appropriate pain.

And now there's been just such an incident in Darwin. Corey Jamieson was swimming along for his bronze medallion when he felt a sharp pain above his knee - a stingray spike had firmly speared him, and broken off.

Happily he lived to tell the tale.

■ Every so often one observes an incident of bureaucratic unintelligence.

I was driving down Melbourne Rd in Rye, when one of those flashing lights, mounted on a trailer, confronted me.

"Don't drive through water - floods are dangerous. Keep well clear". Or words to that effect.

The most hazardous flood I've ever seen anywhere near Rye has been a big puddle about three inches deep on the side of the road.

Just like on the Stuart Highway out of Coober Pedy there's a "High Fire Risk Area" sign on a treeless gibber plain.

But, away from Rye, I must confess to have witnessed a few deluges one way and another.

Having experienced a few such episodes, with me it's now once bitten twice shy, and I take no risks at all.

There are two types of flood - both of which I now assiduously avoid, as I can well do without the consequences.

Firstly sometimes on bitumen, and sometimes not, during driving through deep water, I've become stranded, and needed a tow.

This ends up with a car full of water and the absolute inconvenience of draining and drying it all out.

And secondly, up to the axles in soft mud, wallowing around ankledeep one's self with branches and shovels and tow ropes.

I can do without both of these.

■ I've driven along many an Outback bush road and note that to relieve the perceived boredom of travel, some adventurers have begun a novel exercise - tree decorating.

I have seen sturdy old dead trees festooned with all manner of articles empty beer cans, bottles, shoes, boots, and many an old tyre.

Some have even become famous on some Outback thoroughfares, though they've never been of great interest to me.

The Outback Legend

away. There are underwater lights, which attract fish of all descriptions to swim around on the non-angling end.

And right at that end is the wonderful swish Jetty restaurant, where one dines under the stars just beside these spectacular swimming fish, plus the odd porpoise and crocodile.

However, unfortunately for Helen Bull the other night, some adolescents were throwing their fishing lures about, and one ended up in the wrong direction whacking her on the head. Off to Darwin Hospital.

Just like one night I was dining outdoors in the Mall in Alice Springs, when a local lady marched up to my table and grabbed a steak and a potato straight from my plate and fled, happily munching on her booty.

You certainly don't expect these activities when you're dining out in Melbourne - in the Territory, who knows?

with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au

■ I remember receiving a shock in a park in Alice Springs once - I saw someone putting some rubbish in a bin.

Almost invariably the relationship which many Alice Springs residents have with their bins is taking things out, and strewing the contents over the ground in their search for a tasty morsel.

This situation has recently being brought to notice by Heimo Schober, the CEO of Keep Australia Beautiful NT. There was a National Litter Index in 2013-14, which claimed that the NT is the cleanest Australian state/territory.

Heimo disagrees with this. In communities where there is no official clean-up service, it's like being in a tip. Out of official sight, out of mind.

Everyone seems to be trying to clean the place up - jingles on the media, and local prisoners going around in supervised groups, cleaning the parks and the streets and the river bed.

"It's the general public that's letting us down", he said. Right on, Heimo.

Reminds me of when the local KFC burnt down a few years ago - some residents' staple diet was gone. And alas, some poor old local crows starved to death, because their staple diet was the discarded chicken bones and chips of some of these residents which the crows had learned to rely on for their daily sustenance.

- Nick Le Souef

I always find on my journeys on any bush road there is so much more which Mother Nature provides to be of interest than a thong-infested tree.

Every road changes, usually inexorably, florally and geographically, that this is far and away much more interesting in itself.

I have spoken a few times about visits to the remote and famous Outback outpost of William Creek.

The residents of this little town have begun their own tree of interest, which they call the ‘Pussy Willow’.

It's festooned with dead feral cats.

It may upset the sensibilities of a few urban cat lovers, but they don't live in the bush and witness the savagery of these feline fiends which destroy our precious indigenous wildlife.

■ I have often waxed lyrical about Darwin, which I love dearly, from a few perspectives. One is the Wharf.

It's got a wonderful little display of local fish and diving history right at the beginning, with a few takeaways on the pier itself.

One can purchase one's fish and chips and sit on the edge and nibble