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4 seasons in one night
● Bobby Fox wowed audiences with his show Four Seasons In One Night. ■ Oh, what a night! Audiences at The Palms Fox’s energy is enormous and constant, a at Crown were wowed as Australian music must when singing pop hits, and he filled the theatre star Bobby Fox gave a massive per- stage and the songs with all of that power and formance in Four Seasons In One Night. energy. Fox revisited his successful three years perAt first, Fox’s opening anecdotes were a little forming as the famous lead singer of the Four too well rehearsed and disconnected from audiSeasons in the Tony-award winning musical ence reactions, but his genuine charm didn’t take Jersey Boys. long to come through. Through music and anecdotes, Fox shared His charisma and playfulness extended his experience auditioning for and playing the warmth to the audience who seemed captivated role of Frankie Valli in the sold-out also by his funky dance moves - and who doesn’t Melbourne and Sydney seasons. an Irish accent? Many funny and extraordinary experiences love In Four Seasons In One Night, Fox was supwere had as Fox met the man himself, as well as producer and songwriter Bob Crewe who ported by thrilling performances from Joe co-wrote many Valli songs with Four Sea- Accaria on drums, Duncan Brown on bass, Nick Pringadi on keyboard and Marcus sons member Bob Gaudio. Fox shares more than a powerful falsetto Kurban on guitar, as well as superb vocalists with Valli, having also a way of interpreting Tom Sharah and Josie Lane. The musical performance was tight and tranthe music and lyrics he sings with great sensisitions seamless under Accaria’s musical ditivity and nuance. He particularly showed this in his gorgeous rection. – Review by Deborah Marinaro rendition of Valli’s 1975 hit My Eyes Adore You
■ Milorad Trkulja has won his bid to have a church matter - in which he is accused of ‘Anti-Christ’ activity - to be heard by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. VCAT member Julie Grainger heard that Trkulja was banned for life from being a member of the Serbian Orthodox Church “due to anti-Christ activities”. Trkulja was accused of misbehaviour in the Croatian press, editing of the Smorta website, and announcement of legal proceedings against the church and Archbishop Irinej Dobrijevic. Trkulja is alleged to be a self-proclaimed ‘conjurer’, advertising as a ‘natural healer’ who “removes bad luck, black magic, evil eyes, voodoo and other curses”. Trkulja is also allegedly promoted as an “expert for sex and interpersonal relationships”. Trkulja is said to be involved in a long-running dispute about a property formely owned by the St Archdeacon Stefan Church to a company owned by the Bishop. The Bishop and Church were unsuccessful in claiming that the matter was “undoubtedly hopeless” and should be dismissed. The matter will be heard by VCAT on a date to be fixed by the Registrar.
Mark Richardson: Straight from the heart .... Page 4 City Desk: Helpmann nominations .............. Page 5 The Barrel: ‘The Age’ eats its own .....,........... Page 7 Melbourne People: Lucy, Chris engaged ...... Page 10 Di Rolle: ‘I love my job’ .............................. Page 12 Gavin Wood: Live from West Hollywood ....... Page 14 Melb. Confidential: Valueless cheques ........ Page 21 Long Shots: The Editor’s column ............... Page 22 Extra: Kevin Trask, Nick Le Souef ............... Page 24 Readers’ Club: Birthdays, recipes, fun ........ Page 26 Classic Books: Les Miserables continues ... Page 27 Radio Confidential Local Theatre Movies, DVDs, Top 10 Mega Crossword
Observer Showbiz
THE TOP 5 TWEETS OF THE WEEK 5. "am recording my new single 'I am always on my mind" @krudd. 4. "had a great day on the punt. Having a cold crownie in coach on way home" @queen. 3. "yes I have been offered job as head of Australian armed forces" @hughhefner. 2. "anyone wanna buy two and a half million pink batts?". @pgarrett. 1. "help!" @jgillard
Flashes Around Victoria
5am clubs slammed ■ Wangaratta magistrate John Murphy has criticised local nightclubs for staying open as late as 5am, saying it can lead to drunken violence.
Katter to visit Birchip ■ Katter’s Australian Party leader Bob Katter will be at the Birchip Cropping Group Grains Research Expo on Thursday next week (July 4).
Weather Forecast ■ ■ ■ ■
Today (Wed.). Clear. 8°-17° Thursday. Chance of rain. 3°-14° Friday. Chance of rain. 6°-14° Saturday. Partly cloudy. 3°-15°
WIN GOLDEN MEMORIES VOL. 4 CD We have 5 ‘Golden Memories’ CDs to give away to lucky Observer readers The Melbourne Observer has five copies of Golden Days Radio latest CD - Golden Memories Vol. 4 - to give away in this latest competition. Golden Days Radio - Playing Yesterday’s Music Today - can be heard on 95.7 FM, and online at www.goldendaysradio. com This latest CD features 79 minutes of Golden Memories with 25 tracks including numbers including The Chum Song, Poor Butterfly, Gone Fishin’, I Believe, A Beggar In Love, Summer Time, Twelfth Street Rag, Today Is The Happies Day Of My Life, and more.
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Page 4 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
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Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart
E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au
IT’S SHOWTIME FOR DINOSAURS
■ Dinosaurs would have to be considered as one of the Earth's highest ranking success stories. Footprints of some of the larger species place their existence back to an estimated 140 million years; with fossils and remains having now been discovered on almost every continent. Our fascination with unlocking the mysteries of dinosaurs continues to bring grown men and women to their knees; namely with tiny picks and brushes who work in the field of
Palaeontology - that being a combination of Geology and Biology which focuses specifically on fossils and covers the last 3.5 billion years. When I heard the news that Eastland Shopping Centre (Ringwood) will be home to the world premiere and unveiling of the Dinosaur Adventures Exhibition over the July school holidays, I put my Palaeontologist’s hat on to dig around on the Showtime Attractions Porch to learn more about the director and cre-
Roaring Porch Thoughts
ator of the amazing life-like and moving dinosaurs, Keith Brown. Keith has spent the past 18 months creating the entire production after coming up the idea over dinner with his wife Luci; who is also the national production manager for Showtime Attractions. Luci thought Keith was crazy but projects of gigantic proportions seem to tick all of Keith the boxes, especially when dinosaurs are involved. When did your fascination with dinosaurs begin? Dinosaurs are a big part of any boy's life, along with cars and sports etc. Many people go on to drive nice cars and play their favourite sport, so who says we can't build life-like dinosaurs! How many children really get to live their dream as an adult? Are you saying you never grew up yourself in terms of creating a career that complimented your inner child? I actually ran away with the circus when I was 14 years-of-age. I have travelled Australia and the globe wining major entertainment productions. At the age of 25 I decided to follow a path in marketing and children's entertainment which then began the foundations of forming Showtime Attractions. What exactly is Showtime Attractions? Showtime Attractions was formed in 1995. We are a Melbourne based and create events with innovative and entertaining concepts that appeal to all ages, just like the upcoming dinosaur exhibition. Some of our more recent events include Santa's Magical Kingdom that was launched last year in Melbourne which saw in excess of 75,000 visitors enjoy a magical Christmas wonderland. Other projects include Shrek Live and Kung Fu Panda. What was your inspiration behind creating the Dinosaur Adventuresan Exhibition?
● Showtime Attractions Director Keith Brown Dinosaurs are an identity within itWho will enjoy the exhibition? self that never ages. All ages can gain It has been designed to take people something out of our exhibition as it back in time with information boards, has fasts facts, animatronic dinosaurs, life-like displays and interactive acphoto opportunities and an activity tivities. village. We wanted to create an enIt will appeal to all ages. Children tertainment program which was a will have the opportunity to become a point of difference that has ever been Palaeontologist and dig their way seen in shopping centres. to find hidden treasures. The dinoWhat dinosaurs are in the ex- saurs are like nothing we have ever hibition and what is the tallest seen before and will make you feel that we'll see? like you are stepping back in time Visitors will be able to see some amongst the giants. familiar dinosaurs, such as TyranWhat are the future plans for nosaurus Rex and Triceratops, but the exhibition? they will also be able to learn about This will tour shopping centres some of the lesser known dinosaurs around Australia in 2013. The event that existed. There are 9-14 models will then be built and triple in size and the tallest in the exhibition is the bringing 60 dinosaurs into a full tickT-Rex that stands around 2.9metres. eted walk through experience. The dinosaurs look amazing What is your Porch Thought close up. What are they made of? For The Day? Dinosaurs are fascinating no matThey are made from steel mesh, foam and latex with motors from ter your age. Children are awestruck and adults are enthralled by a life and Germany and America. All of these elements bring to life time that feels unimaginably long ago. our dinosaurs giving the realistic feel ■ Showtime Attraction's first and look. They are fully controlled ever Dinosaur Adventures Exhiwith computer boxes turning the di- bition will run from Monday, nosaurs to full animatronic with real- July 1 to Sundaym July 28. istic sounds. - Mark Richardson
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 5
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The hottest news about Melbourne’s A-listers
HELPMANN AWARD NOMS
■ Nominations for the show business Helpmann Awards were announced simultaneously in Melbourne and five other capital cities on Monday night. The nominations were announced by performers including David Atkins, Christie Whelan Browne, Chloe Dallimore, Sharon Millerchip, Catherine McClements, Simon Gallaher, Cameron Goodall, Rob Mills and Erika Heynatz. Live Performance Australia received 822 entries across 41 categories. The 13th annual awards will be presented on Monday, July 29. Chief Executive, Evelyn Richardson, said: “This year we are also delighted to announce two additional Awards which will be presented at the ceremony. “The Best Special Event Award will be presented to White Night Melbourne, Victorian Major Events Company on behalf of the State Government of Victoria. “An Award will also be given for Outstanding Theatrical Achievement: for the design, creation and operation of King Kong – the creature. “The Industry Awards Panel and Helpmann Awards Administration Committee felt strongly that this ground breaking Australian creation, the first of its kind in the world, was worthy of individual recognition.” The Helpmann Awards also incorporate the Brian Stacey Award for Emerging Australian Conductors. This year the Brian Stacey Memorial Trust announced Carolyn Watson as the winner of the award, receiving an $8000 prize. The Helpmann Awards will be presented at the Sydney Opera House, hosted by Eddie Perfect and Christie Whelan-Browne, and broadcast on Foxtel’s Arena.
BEST COSTUME DESIGN Hugh Colman. Swan Lake (Baynes). The Australian Ballet Julian Crouch & Phelim McDermott. The Addams Family. Rodney Rigby together with Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt & Five Cent Productions by special arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical Roger Kirk. King Kong. Global Creatures Tess Schofield. The Secret River Sydney Theatre Company in association with The Confederation of Australian InternationalArts Festivals, Sydney Festival, The Centenary of Canberra, Perth International Arts Festival
BEST SCENIC DESIGN
Stephen Curtis. The Secret River. Sydney Theatre Company in association with The Confederation of Australian International Arts Festivals, Sydney Festival, The Centenary of Canberra, Perth International Arts Festival Peter England. King Kong. Global Creatures Jonathon Oxlade. School Dance Windmill Theatre Amon Tobin. Amon Tobin ISAM: Live. Vivid LIVE at Sydney Opera House Presents
BEST LIGHTING DESIGN Mark Howett. The Secret River.
PHOTO: SIMON PARRIS ‘MAN IN CHAIR’ WEBSITE
BEST AUSTRALIAN CONTEMPORARY CONCERT Gotye. Gotye & Chugg Entertainment in Association with Lunatic Entertainment & Eleven Music Into the Bloodstream: Archie Roach. Archie Roach, Jill Shelton, Sydney Festival, Perth International Arts Festival & Adelaide Festival Neil Finn & Paul Kelly. Neil Finn, Paul Kelly & Live Nation Australasia by arrangement with Artist Voice Keith Urban – The Story So Far. Keith Urban, Chugg Entertainment & Nine Live
BEST REGIONAL TOURING PRODUCTION ● Christie Whelan-Browne co-hosted Monday night’s event Sydney Theatre Company in associaBEST CHAMBER AND/OR tion with The Confederation of AustraINSTRUMENTAL lian InternationalArts Festivals, Sydney ENSEMBLE CONCERT Festival, The Centenary of Canberra, Perth International Arts Festival Jordi Savall & Andrew Lawrence Peter Mumford. King Kong. Glo- King. Melbourne Recital Centre bal Creatures Takacs Quartet. Musica Viva AusPaul Normandale. Coldplay – tralia Mylo Xyloto Tour. Chugg EntertainPhillip Glass Complete Piano Etudes ment Perth International Arts Festival John Rayment. Handa Opera on Steve Reich – A Celebration. Sydney Harbour - Carmen Opera Aus- Sydney Opera House Presents tralia
BEST SOUND DESIGN Tony David Cray. Die Tote Stadt. Opera Australia Tony David Cray. Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour - Carmen Opera Australia Peter Hylenski. King Kong. Global Creatures Luke Smiles. School Dance. Windmill Theatre
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE Original Music Composed by Marius de Vries featuring Songs and Original Compositions by 3D from Massive Attack, Guy Garvey, Sarah McLachlan, Justice and The Avalanches with additional lyrics by Michael Mitnick and Richard Thomas. King Kong. Global Creatures Iain Grandage. The Secret River Sydney Theatre Company in association with The Confederation of Australian International Arts Festivals, Sydney Festival, The Centenary of Canberra, Perth International Arts Festival Gordon Kerry & Louis Nowra. Midnight Son, Victorian Opera David Page. TERRAIN. Bangarra Dance Theatre
BEST MUSIC DIRECTION Christian Badea. Die Tote Stadt. Opera Australia Iain Grandage. The Secret River Sydney Theatre Company in association with The Confederation of Australian InternationalArts Festivals, Sydney Festival, The Centenary of Canberra, Perth International Arts Festival James Morrison. Boundary Street. Black Swan State Theatre Company & Brisbane Festival Tristen Parr. Duck, Death and the Tulip. Barking Gecko Theatre Company presented by Perth International Arts Festival
BEST SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT
Beethoven 9. Australian Chamber Orchestra Das Rheingold by Richard Wagner (concert performance), The Hamburg State Opera with The Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra, Queensland Performing Arts Centre & Events Queensland Symphony No.2 in C Minor, Resurrection by Gustave Mahler, Soloists from The Hamburg State Opera with the Hamburg Philharmonic Orchestra Queensland Performing Arts Centre & Events Queensland Tchaikovsky’s Queen of Spades: An Opera in Concert. Sydney Symphony
BEST INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY CONCERT Tedeschi Trucks Band & Trombone Shorty. Tedeschi Trucks Band, Trombone Shorty & Bluesfest Touring Coldplay – Mylo Xyloto Tour. Coldplay & Chugg Entertainment Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band Wrecking Ball 2013. Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band & Frontier Touring Company in association with Jacobsen International Barry Gibb – Mythology Tour. Barry Gibb & Live Nation Australasia
BEST CONTEMPORARY MUSIC FESTIVAL The 24th Annual Bluesfest Byron Bay. Bluesfest Touring The Falls Music & Arts Festival. The Falls Music & Arts Festival Laneway Festival 2013. Lunatic Entertainment & Chugg Entertainment Vivid LIVE 2012. Sydney Opera House Presents ● Turn To Page 124
Of Earth & Sky. Bangarra Dance Theatre CIRCA. Toured by Performing Lines for Road Work The Land of Yes & The Land of No. Sydney Dance Company The Disappearances Project. Version 1.0
BEST CHOREOGRAPHY IN A DANCE OR PHYSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTION Antony Hamilton. Black Project 1 & 2. Arts House & Antony Hamilton Projects Antony Hamilton. Keep Everything. Chunky Move Stephanie Lake. Dual. Arts House & Stephanie Lake Frances Rings. TERRAIN. Bangarra Dance Theatre
BEST CHOREOGRAPHY IN A MUSICAL Tony Bartuccio. Chess. The Production Company Christopher Gattelli. South Pacific. Opera Australia in association with John Frost Jerry Mitchell. Legally Blonde The Musical. Howard Panter for The Ambassador Theatre Group & John Frost for Gordon Frost Organisation Sergio Trujillo. The Addams Family. Rodney Rigby together with Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt & Five Cent Productions by special arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical
BEST DIRECTION OF A MUSICAL Jerry Mitchell. Legally Blonde The Musical, Howard Panter for The Ambassador Theatre Group & John Frost for Gordon Frost Organisation Simon Phillips. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum John Frost Bartlett Sher. South Pacific. Opera Australia in association with John Frost Jerry Zaks. The Addams Family. Rodney Rigby together with Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt & Five Cent Productions by special arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical
BEST DIRECTION OF AN OPERA Gale Edwards. Salome. Opera Australia
Ludger Engels. Semele Walk Kunstfestspiele Herrenhausen, Presented by Sydney Festival Rodula Gaitanou. L'isola Disabitata. Hobart Baroque & Royal Opera House Alex Ollé. Un Ballo in Maschera. Opera Australia
BEST DIRECTION OF A PLAY Neil Armfield. The Secret River. Sydney Theatre Company in association with The Confederation of Australian International Arts Festivals, Sydney Festival, The Centenary of Canberra, Perth International Arts Festival Lee Lewis. The School For Wives. Bell Shakespeare Rosemary Myers. School Dance. Windmill Theatre Anne-Louise Sarks. Medea. Belvoir in association with Australian Theatre For Young People
BEST MALE ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL Russell Dykstra. The Addams Family. Rodney Rigby together with Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt & Five Cent Productions by special arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical Chris Ryan. King Kong. Global Creatures Hugh Sheridan. A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum John Frost Mike Snell. Legally Blonde The Musical. Howard Panter for The Ambassador Theatre Group & John Frost for Gordon Frost Organisation
BEST FEMALE ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MUSICAL Helen Dallimore. Legally Blonde The Musical. Howard Panter for The Ambassador Theatre Group & John Frost for Gordon Frost Organisation Erika Heynatz. Legally Blonde The Musical. Howard Panter for The Ambassador Theatre Group & John Frost for Gordon Frost Organisation Katrina Retallick. The Addams Family. Rodney Rigby together with Stuart Oken, Roy Furman, Michael Leavitt & Five Cent Productions by special arrangement with Elephant Eye Theatrical Jennifer Vuletic. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Tim Lawson
BEST MALE ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A PLAY Patrick Brammall. Death of a Salesman. Belvoir Colin Moody. The Secret River Sydney Theatre Company in association with The Confederation of Australian International Arts Festivals, Sydney Festival, The Centenary of Canberra, Perth International Arts Festival Rory Potter. Medea. Belvoir in association with Australian Theatre For Young People Hayden Spencer. End of the Rainbow Queensland Performing Arts Centre & Queensland Theatre Company ● Turn To Page 124
Page 6 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 7
Briefs
Observer
Backhome
STALKER LOSES COURT APPEAL
● Portia de Rossi ■ Actress Portia de Rossi, partner of Ellen Degeneres, is returning to Melbourne to shoot a new comedy movie, Now Add Honey, from local husband-and-wife film-making team Wayne Hope and Robyn Butler.
Closed ■ Customers of Tommy's Leather Direct, a Wendouree furniture store, are thousands of dollars out-ofpocket after the business shut its doors, reports the Ballarat Courier. The shop had been closed for stocktake. The phone has been disconnected.
$30 mil.
■ The $30 million mid-year Tattslotto will take place this Saturday (June 29). It is draw no 3333.
Statue ire ■ Nagambie locals are fighting the decision to put up a statue of Black Caviar on the site of a former chapel.
News
■ Victorian Supreme Court Judges Harper, Priest and Coghlan, sitting as the Court of Appeal, have rejected an appeal by convicted stalker and blackmailer Roy Cooper. Cooper sought to have an eight year and nine month jail sentence reduced. The judges heard Cooper was coinvicted of stalking and black-mailing John Silcot and Estelle Kingshott, and stalking Marcus Venier. Cooper tried to get $100,000 a year from Silcot and Kingshott for a three-year prison term he had served on other charges.
● Judge David Harper
Cooper had enlisted the help of his son, Stephan, to seek revenge over an insurance fraud conviction. Stephan received indemnity from the Director of Public Prosecutions to give evidence against his father. Cooper argued that County Court Judge Wood erred in instructions to a jury over what weight they could put on previous convictions. Roy Cooper’s offending was serious, the Judges agreed. He had serious prior convictions for imposition, obtaining property by deception, assault, and handling stolen goods.
FOUR-LETTER WORD PRODUCTION
■ Four Letter Word Theatre Company's production of Chiasmus is being presented until June 30 in the Collingwood Underground Arts Park. Writer/director Angus Cameron says that like so many other arts people, he has been involved in theatre since he can remember. His love of being on stage, and drama and theatre studies were useful when attending Melbourne University, where he became involved with both the college and university theatre scenes. Graduating in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts (Political and International Studies, Screen and Cultural Studies) with Honours (Cultural Studies), Angus also tutors in media, politics, cinema and post modernism. Inheriting the management of some independent theatre companies, Angus has also helped create and establish others. He says it is always fun finding the tone, the demographic and, importantly, the ensemble of actors in each. In 2011 Angus completed an internship with the Bell Shakespeare Theatre Company, focussing on audiences, government funding, philanthropy and sponsorship. One of his favourite venues is the Guild Theatre at Melbourne University. "It's such a wonderfully versatile black box theatre," he says. Debuting there as a producer with 12 Angry Men, then winning the university's Production of the Year (2011) with Four Letter Word Theatre's Closer, he then debuted as a director with The History Boys (2012). Angus sees shows from 'the other side' when reviewing for online publications. He admits that reviewing is not always that simple. "I got a bit of a reputation for writing quite critical reviews," he says, "and realised I was spending a lot of time criticising others and not as much time creating." Angus enjoyed working through the Murrap Barak Centre with the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme and assisting in performance subjects, and would love to be more involved with the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Scheme. Chiasmus is Angus's literary debut and he is also director and company manager. He describes the show as being "jam packed full of bits and pieces for the audience and the actors to enjoy."
Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson
● Angus Cameron Angus says that although the plot of Chiasmus seems quite dramatic and intense, it is actually more fun and tragicomic than a drama: Ava is having a child with her partner Hannah, using her ex-boyfriend Otto's sperm. Otto has a biological claim to the child while Hannah thinks she has a legal claim. Ava wants an abortion. "I'm working on creating an unsettling and entertaining show that challenges the audience to laugh and enjoy themselves in the face of some terrifying and horrific moments. It's absurd. It's fun. It's theatre," says Angus. Angus believes there is a strong, theoretical underpinning to his work. "It is philosophy in practice," he says. "I hope to continue studying and do a Masters Degree next year, as well as writing more plays, perhaps a novel, and if I am lucky, maybe a screenplay or TV series." "I'll use the best medium for communicating what I have to say and just go with it." Chiasmus can be seen until June 30 at 7.30pm at the Collingwood Underground Car Park, 44 Harmsworth St, Collingwood. Bookings by email:fourletterwordtheatre@gmail. com or www.fourletterwordtheatre.com - Cheryl Threadgold
Gerald Ridsdale faces 72 charges ■ Gerald Francis Ridsdale, 79, of Lara, is to face 72 sex offences. He did not appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday when a filing hearing was conducted before Magistrate Duncan Reynolds. He is accused of multiple counts of unlawfully and indecently assaulting girls, indecently assaulting males, committing buggery and having carnal knowldge. Ridsdale faces 18 counts of allegedly committing unlawful and indecent assaults on girls, and 47 counts of indecent assaults on males. The offences are alleged to have occurred between 1961 and 1980 in various locations in Victoria. Ridsdale did not apply for bail. He is due to appear in Court on September 20.
THE BARREL ‘Never pick a fight with a man who buys ink by the barrel and paper by the ton.’ ‘The Age’ eats its own ■ What a delicious weekend treat to see loyal readers of The Age attack their own newspaper for its editorial suggesting that Prime Minister Julia Gillard should stand aside. “We have been a great supporter of Julia Gillard,” said Age Editor-inChief, Andrew Holden, who acknowledged that the paper’s prime readership expects “leftof-centre” opinion. Age readers were quick to criticise the ● Andrew Holden, paper’s management for Editor of The Age the circulation-compacted newspaper’s viewpoint: “It is time for Julia Gillard to stand aside as leader of the federal parliamentary Labor Party, as Prime Minister of Australia.” Jon of Torquay said: “No she shouldn't. The Age might want to start focussing on policies and not personalities. Leave that crap to News Ltd and shock jocks.” Jonathan agreed: “Hypocritical that a media organisation blames the government for being unable to get its policy messages out because of leadership speculation by the media.” ‘Gatsby’ commented: “There IS a proper contest of ideas - its just that Labor's ideas are getting thrashed.” Also commenting at The Age website, ‘ExLabor Lover’ said: “Julia has only herself to blame, nothing but lies. Remember when she said “No ifs and no buts” in regards to the budget surplus ... If anything, The Age always favours the Labor Party.” Blogage said: “Serious journalism is beyond The Age. The Age has its own political agenda and should register itself as a political party. The sooner ● Julia Gillard The Age closes for good, the better for the whole of Melbourne, Victoria and Australia.” ‘SB’ commented: “Agree. The Age has sunk to a new low. If that is possible.” Phil said: “All of the good journalists have left the Fairfax sinking ship long ago. All we have left are partisan hacks who dredge up this dribble. I will never buy The Age again.” St Bob was critical of Andrew Holden: “Funny how the editor put up a video of himself. Wants to be the news instead of just reporting it. Pathetic.” Lee commented: “The Age must think we are fools now it peddles Democracy is why we should vote Labor in. The Age and Labor has tried every trick in the book. Use your pages for news not propaganda.” Ozzy Interloper asked the question: "Isn't it the job of the newspapers to report the news, not make it?" By Saturday night, The Age had had enough: it closed off the readers’ comments section at its website about the editorial. More on P25 ● Kevin Rudd
Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Urbbana Feature - by Mark Richardson
Stylish grand opening in Melbourne
● Sam Abi. Photos by Kon Iatrou – IKON Images
● Alexander Bors
Sam Abi's URBBANA vision celebrated on Chapel Street Founder, Director and designer of URBBANA menswear brand Sam Abi is a man to keep your eyes on. He is at the top of his fashion game, turning heads and going places in eloquent style. Whether he is personally styling customers, showcasing his fashion on catwalks or enjoying a morning coffee and muffin along Chapel St, Sam is dressed to impress from head to toe in the URBBANA clothing label that he created himself; describing his collection as being an 'expression of luxury.' The creation of the URBBANA label wasn't a designer career choice made by Sam, he simply became frustrated searching for shirts, blazers, trousers and shoes that lacked the sophistication, quality and designs he desired for comfort, appeal and confidence. In 2009, Sam quickly became a self-thought designer utilising prestigious fabrics that he personally sourced overseas along with the finest raw materials. Keeping true to his vision, he adopted traditional tailoring techniques into all of his creations that perfectly blended with innovative skill and advanced technology. Influenced by Australian flair and Mediterranean breeze, URBBANA has developed as a symbol of elegance and sophistication on the Australian fashion scene and has acquired a loyal and growing customer base in Australia and overseas since opening its first store in Brisbane in 2010.
● Luke Knoester
Sam Abi's URBBANA vision celebrated on Chapel Street URBBANA and Sam Abi are fast becoming brand names within their own rights, having sparked worldwide fashion industry and media attention following the success of showcasing seasonal collections at major fashion shows in Sydney and Brisbane (Mercedes Benz Fashion Week). Having opened Melbourne's first URBBANA Men's Style Studio in Chapel St in November last year with business partner Lawrence Darwish, it was time to officially celebrate with family, friends and URBBANA'S VIP loyal customers with the prestige synonymous with
the URBBANA name. Close to 90 guests (many flamboyantly styled by URBBANA) enjoyed a touch of jazz and DJ mixed music before Sam personally unveiled some of the sophisticated W/F13 UBBANA Collection modelled on the red carpet catwalk. Sam commented on the microphone, "URBBANA has favoured the brave this year with a range of bold trends for the warmer months, floral and toile prints garments, plus, coloured and classic leather shoes to compliment the overall collection." Many of the popular winter colours like navy, charcoal, burnt brown and burgundy will continue to expand in summer and diversify into a wider array of shades like royal blue, silver, tangy, red, green and pink. Of course neutral light colours like beige and khaki have a strong presence this season and they sure to compliment the above colours combination." "We will be showing 14 men's outfits at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival in Brisbane this year. “Like last year, expect to see the most luxurious fabric throughout the collection in fabulous mix of colours and striking patterns. We will also be showing URBBANA's own crafted shoe collection, which covers the classic and the flamboyant taste. “We are honoured URBBANA has been invited to be part of it and even more thrilled to launch the exclusive range in the heart of Australia's fashion capital and URBBANA's new vibrant home, Melbourne."
● Tim Hamilton
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 9
Urbbana Feature - by Mark Richardson
● Baz Emera and Stevie Richards
● Ani Maria Tapa, Lawrence Darwish and Sam Abi
● Lawrence Darwish and Kon Iatrou
● Loredana Bonello, Hans Langeder and Karen J
● Sonya Hadjiyannakis and Danni Bosancic
● Tiffany Long, Carla Gabriel and Diana Puot
● Tim Fischer and Natalie Kitney
● Adrian Lodders and Mark Bell
● Angela Lachlan and Brendan Stephens
● The new Urbbana store in Chapel St
● Chris He and Richard Mulligan
Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
People Melbourne
Exclusive luncheon ■ British Indian food writer, author and TV presenter Anjum Anand will host a luncheon at Tonka restaurant, Duckboard Place, Melbourne, on Tuesday (July 2). Eltham Bookshop is assisting with the $85-per-person luncheon which includes “a fragrant lunch, a spicy talk, and a copy of Anjun’s Indian Vegetarian Feast cookbook.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Send news to editor@melbourneobserver.com.au
● Anjun Anand
Fax: 1-800 231 312
Lucy, Chris engaged to wed
Farewell Wendy Saddington
PHOTO: JEWELCHIC.COM.AU
● Melbourne showbiz enthusiast Megan Castran is amongst those celebrating the engagement of Legally Blonde’s Lucy Durack and Chris Horsey.
Birthday highlights
● Judy Banks-Phillips ■ Son, Dr Andrew Phillips, made a surprise trip to Melbourne late last week to help celebrate the birthday of his mother, Judy Banks-Phillips. The treats included an an over-night stay at the Sofitel, dinner at the Flower Drum and a visit to the Monet exhibition next day.
● Wendy Saddington
Hummingbirds perform jazz
● Prof. Wayne Morrison and Coral Knowles
● Angela McGowan celebrated her birthday last week with Ruzica Tomat and John Fritz at Sezana’s in Toorak Village.
■ Hummingbird Ambassadors held their annual 'Jazz in June' lunch for 140 guests at The Chapter House. Australia's Got Talent’s Liam Burrows performed. The event was hosted by Channel 7’s Melissa Hetherington with guest speaker 3AW's Dee Dee Dunleavy. "Dee Dee provided an emotional and heartwarming speech about why the O'Brien Institute's regenerative surgery research program means so much to her." said publicist Matthew Ongarello. VIP guests in attendance included Elizabeth Chernov, Campbell Walker, Professor Wayne Morrison, Jill Taylor, Angela Kennedy, Stephanie Hickey and Coral Knowles.
■ The Melbourne music scene is mourning the passing aqt age 64 of Wendy Saddington, known as ‘Diva of the Blues’. Her career started in 1967, fronting bands such as Revolution, James Taylor Move, Chain and Copperwine. She was an ‘agony aunt; columnist with Go-Set. Wendy then performed reggae, later returning to jazz. Wendy was known as ‘Gandharvika Dasi’ in her Krishna faith. She died in her Melbourne home from esophageal cancer.
In Paris
● Popular Phillip Island couple Sue and Steve Frew are touring Europe, after watching the TT motor-cycle event on the Isle Of Man. They are pictured sampling olives and wine in Paris.
Leading apprentices recognised
Open House
● More than 250 automotive industry guests attended the VACC Automotive Design Awards, in the Deakin Edge, Federation Square. where Minister for Manufacturing, Major Projects and Ports, David Hodgett, made presentations to leading apprentices. From left: Aman Bhatti, Daniel DeBono, Anthony Farnell, David Hodgett, Hamzah Brown, Todd Linnett, Kouhei Kawakami and Eddie Gaudernack
■ The 2013 Open House Melbourne program was launched last week at the St Mary of the Cross, Mausoleum at the Melbourne General Cemetery. The July 27-28 free event will include tours of: ■ Channel 9 studios in Docklands; ■ The new 171 Collins St; ■ Innovative residential buildings including the Heller Street park and residences; ■ The new National Tennis Centre; ■ the Victoria Police Airlie Leadership Development Centre on Punt Rd; ■ A treehouse in South Yarra; and ■ the Supreme Court of Victoria - Court of Appeal.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 11
AN EXCITING WOMEN’S GROUP Get excited about your life by finding more energy and sharing with other women who’d like the same. Every Friday for 4 weeks From June 28 11am-1pm
Vine and Branches Personal Growth Centre Inc 27 Bonds Rd, Lower Plenty
For more information call Lorraine Edwards on 0425 761 882
Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
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To
Doctor’s orders during winter
Di Good luck Cassandra Jane
● Cassandra Jane ■ Someone who needs to wrap up warm, wear a scarf and big coat - or she will get a cold - is the wonderful Cassandra Jane, Miss Nude World 2013. I have met her and she is charming. She is set to compete in the inaugural Grand Prix of Exotic Dance in the United States. She has announced that any prize money she may win at the competition will be donated to the Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue and Educational Centre. Melbourne-based Cassandra Jane made headlines around Australia last year when she won the coveted Miss Nude World title. As a 36-year-old single mother, she defied critics by taking out the prize, against dozens of young hopefuls. And despite a recent health setback, which saw her hospitalised with blood clots, believed to have been caused by a controversial contraceptive pill, the blond bombshell has been training diligently for the Grand Prix prize, competing in the Queen division and vying for the World Champion title. But rather than having the eye on the $2000 US prize money for her own pockets, Cassandra Jane’s compassion for animals prevails, and she has pledged the cash, should she win, to Wisconsin’s Big Cat Rescue, which relies on public donations and whose mission is “to provide a safe place and a comfortable home for abused, neglected, and unwanted big cats and also to educate the public about these extraordinary animals and the actions that necessitate the need for Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Centre.” Cassandra Jane is a Melbourne girl. I trust she does well!
I love my job!
■ Melbourne’s winter chills bring ome great fashion. Walking along Chapel Street I see some great coats and scarves, long boots and that’s just the guys! Only kidding, the girls and the gals look great. The guys are all rugged up with their ‘tea-cozy’ hats – I do love that look. Josh Gibson wears that look well. I saw him in local fish and chippery, looking very cozy, comfortable and warm with his ‘tea-cozy hat’. What a week! A cold, cough and temperature that will just not go away. I rug up outside, get all hot and then get all cold, when I get inside. I am sure I am not the only one! The flu (influenza) is caused by a contagious virus that is spread by coughs and sneezes. I have to remember that as I run around in my job going from radio station to radio station, to meetings, on trams, and being with people every day. I wonder if one day we will all become immune to each other and we will have to wear face masks. I learnt during the week that influenza causes inflammation to the brain! That made me stop and rest. Only for a minute though, before I had to get out in the weather, the rat race and amongst it all again. I always laugh when my doctor says stay in bed and rest until your body temperature is in the normal range for 48 hours. I can never do that. Although I have this time, Doc!
For WHO WILL BE ‘VICTORIAN OF YEAR’?
■ The Victorian of the Year will be announced on Monday (July 1). I have circled my calendar. I always like seeing who the Victorian of the Year is. The event is always held at the Melbourne Town Hall at 10.30am. Everyone is always welcome to attend. Then Tuesday (July 2) brings a most interesting event: John McGrath, Artistic Director, National Theatre of Wales, will be in Melbourne as the George Fairfax Fellow for 2013 and guest of Deakin University’s Arts and Entertainment Management Program. As founding Artistic Director of National Theatre, Wales, John McGrath is a most interesting man. He has been responsible for making some extraordinary theatre which engages local communities. Recent productions that have bought rave reviews for him include The Passion which is a brilliant example of what can emerge when art organisations engage the creativities of audience and communities. With 22 professional cast members and 1000 members of the community, the response was enormous. A correspondent for The Independent newspaper in Britain wrote, “The most extraordinary piece of community specific theatre I’ve ever beheld – transcendent.’ John is widely regarded as one of Britain’s most innovative arts practitioners. It just sounds wonderful. John’s views on audience engagement and the need to
with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE
Vale James Gandolfini
● James Gandolfini has died at age 51. A tribute, by Aaron Rourke, appears in the Showbiz pages
● John McGrath broaden arts participation across all art forms, throws down a challenge to traditional high arts organisations. He says: “Tomorrow’s culture will be made not by lone geniuses, but by vibrant coalitions and communities, finding new ways to collaborate and produce their work way beyond the confines of the established arts ● The Queen celebrates world.” ■ I wish Queen - who I adore - would I think this sounds laugh more.theShe has the most wonderful laugh very exciting and cer- and the best smile. tainly has a voice for As a young woman, she smiled much more the future of theatre. than she does now. Her whole face lights up I urge people to see so does everyone around her. this and to hear John andHer smile lit up the Royal Box when her speak. Workshop title is: horse Estimate won the Gold Cup at the Things could get Royal Ascot race meeting Ladies Day. It was so good to see her being so expresmessy: making site-spesive and happy. We have not seen that look for cific work Tuesday, July 2. quite a while and it’s terrific to see. She loves her horses and it is clearly one of 9.30am -1pm including lunch by Kinfolk the occasions that she can let her hair down so Café at Level 2, Don- to speak. We want more of it Ma’am. Maybe when the baby arrives we will see key Wheel House, the same smile on her face! 673 Bourke St, MelInterestingly, as I love the horses and a quiet bourne. Tickets available bet every now and then, the Gold Cup was www.artsparticipation first run in 1807 and no monarch has ever been incubator.tumbir.com a winning owner until now. That is worth a smile! or at the door.
Majestic win
■ When I first heard the theme song to The Sopranos sung by Alabama 3 I was hooked. I was hooked to a fabulous television series but also to Tony Soprano. It seemed appropriate that supremo actor James Gandolfini should pass away in Italy, in a hotel called Hotel Exedra, and was with his only son. Larger than life itself, The Sopranos was a precursor for great television shows that had a flawed character as its leading man and hero. Mad Men followed, but it was Tony Soprano who led the way. I will never forget his scenes with the fabulous actress Lorraine Bracco, who played the psychiatrist, when she encouraged him to look at his gentler side and he would say to her “you ain’t sending me to any laughing academy”,
This soft spoken big framed actor, a true Jersey boy, shone on my television screen. I remember I used to watch every expression of his. He was a great dramatic actor. A theatre actor, he moved into television and TV was never the same. He changed it. I am going to hunt down the interview he did on The Actors Studio. It’s a great piece of television. It showed the essence of who the man was. A bar tender, a truck driver before he took to the stage, Gandolfini transformed television, I used to feel that I was in it. I felt completely there with the actors every minute of the way; the scenes were so brilliant. I felt the public watching him knew him and sensed his humanity; he was “one of the guys”. The kind of guy I would want to go and have pizza with! Vale James Gandolfini.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 13
Victorian Rural News
Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 15, 2013 Melbourne
Observer
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
West Hollywood
LOS ANGELES SALUTES AUSSIE BRUCE Fleetwood Mac tour
From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.
■ Stevie Nicks leads Fleetwood Mac back to Los Angeles after months on the road. The band will have logged more than 40 gigs during this year’s reunion tour with performances at the Hollywood Bowl and will return to the Staples Centre on July 3 to celebrate 50 years of Rock and Roll. Great news for Aussie fans ● Stevie Nicks is that Fleetwood Mac tour Australia in November and you can see them at Rod Laver Arena November 26 this year.
Music comes to the Ramada ■ Well-known Australian composer Bruce Rowland stayed at the Ramada Hotel and Suites where the management hosted a special reception in his honour for 50 years in the Australian and American music industry. Bruce composed the soundtrack for the 1982 movie The Man from Snowy River as well as the 1988 sequel The Man From Snowy River II. Other albums to his credit include Journey To The Centre Of The Earth and The Cup . Bruce has received many awards in his long and celebrated career including four AFI Awards, the AACTA Award for Best Original Music Score and he has been nominated for a BAFTA. Bruce is here in Los Angeles for a special black tie dinner and celebration of the life of Ray Charles.
Tributes to father of valet parking ■ Ramada Plaza General Manager Alan Johnson and leading hoteliers have gathered to honour valet parking founder Herb Citrin who started his business in 1946. Hoteliers from The Peninsula, Beverly Wilshire, Four Seasons, Hyatt Century Plaza, Hotel Bel-Air", "The Beverly Hills Hotel plus some of L.A.'s leading chef's and restaurateurs gathered. Herb’s ' first client was Lawry's Prime Rib Restaurant." Herb's company provided valet services for the Academy Awards, The Emmys, The Golden Globes plus Hugh Hefner's Playboy mansion and the Hollywood Bowl. There are more than 200 locations and 1500 employees. It is a great business that the late Herb Citrin founded and still flourishes today.
● Herb Citrin
Hollywood Bowl summer series
■ Summer is here in the US and the Hollywood Bowl is back in action. Fans can grab a bottle of ytheir favourite wine, a loaf of bread and of course the date of their choice and get themselvesto the annual season-opening event. This year’s July 4 opening features Steven Tyler and Joe Perry from Aerosmith; Patti Austin; and John Legend. The Hollywood Bowl is at 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles at 8pm. www.hollywoodbowl.com
GavinWood
From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd
● Steven Tyler
The Ramada Plaza pool
■ Many of you have inquired about the Ramada pool where I write this weekly column for the Melbourne Observer. I really enjoy your feedback. I am sure as you are dealing with cold mornings that this photo will remind you of warmer days. So come and join me by the pool that's me under the umbrella. For Bookings at the Ramada: info@ramadaweho.com Website: www.ramadaweho.com Till next week, Warm Wishes, Gavin Wood. www.gavinwood.us
● Patti Austin
● Pictured above: Managing Director of the Ramada Hotel and Suites, Alan Johnson, with former Miss Australia and Channel 9 personality, Tracey Dale, and her husband and international actor Alan Dale, with man of the moment, Bruce Rowland with Lorna Johnson
www.gavinwood.us
● Join me at the Ramada Pool
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 15
Melbourne Homemaker
Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Melbourne Homemaker
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 17
Melbourne Homemaker
Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Melbourne Homemaker
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 19
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Healthy Living
Page 20 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
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Melbourne People
● Cathy Sergio with Angela Kennedy
● Coral Knowles with daughter Camilla Gracanin
● Elizabeth Chernov (wife of Governor of Victoria) with Dee Dee Dunleavy
● Stephanie Hickey with Jill Taylor
● Wendy Cheng and Susie Norton
● Julie Leeming, Melissa Hetherington and Roger Leeming
● Shirley Keon and Terence Murphy
● Australia's Got Talent jazz sensation Liam Burrows
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 21
Confidential Melbourne
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
ALTONA DIRECTOR ISSUED VALUELESS CHEQUES: ASIC
Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets
Manu’s manifique Mum
● Manu Feildel ■ My Kitchen Rules chef Manu Feildel had a special edge when he signed with a European company to showcase their high performance ovens and cooktops. His Mum, who lives in the south of France, is a great cook, and Manu is currently re-fitting her kitchen with products marketed by Scholtès, a cutting-edge kitchen appliance developer. Scholtès joined forces with Manu to showcase the European company's top of the range products to Australian audiences. Manu have signed an exclusive sponsorship deal that will see jim use and promote Scholtès high performance ovens and cooktops. "Manu is an excellent fit for Scholtès,” says National Sales and Marketing Manager, Rachael Williams. “He will set the pace and raise the bar on using a chef to achieve branding success. "He cooks up a storm in the kitchen and you can tell he has genuine warmth towards his fans. "Manu and Scholtès both share an absolute passion for the art of cooking, and we have some exciting projects planned over the coming months." Manu is delighted to be the ambassador for the high-reputation European company. "Scholtès is known for innovation, design and detail, and I'm really excited by their entire range, it's outstanding.” One of Manu's first events for Scholtès will be a series of YouTube videos showcasing the versatility and technological innovation of Scholtès, all served up with a dollop of that famous French accent.
Bankrupt case in Court ■ Melbourne woman Maria Sopikiotis has failed in a Federal Court bid to have Peter Robert Vince removed as trustee of her bankrupt estate. Judge Gordon dismissed the application, ordering that Mr Vince’s costs be paid from Ms Sopkiotis’s bankrupt estate. Ms Sopikiotis had alleged there had been misconduct and unnecessary litigation.
■ Carlo Cini, 56, of Altona North, has been arrested and charged with a total of 58 offences following an Australian Securities and Investments Commission investigation. The charges relate to Cini's role as a director of the Williamstownbased company C Cini & Company Pty Ltd (now in liquidation). It is alleged that Cini raised investment funds in excess of $1 million from a number of investors for business related purposes of C Cini & Company, namely property development, and then used those funds for other purposes. The funds were raised between 2007 and 2008. It is further alleged that Cini obtained a financial advantage for the company through the issue of valueless cheques to investors and dishonestly used his position as director through the misuse of investor funds. Cini is charged with the following offences: ■ 10 counts of obtaining property by deception ■ 6 counts of fraudulently inducing persons to invest money
RETURNS TO COURT IN SEPTEMBER
Pepe’s Ducks claims disputed
■ 17 counts of obtaining a obtaining financial advantage by deception, and ■ 25 counts of a director dishonestly using his position. Cini appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (June 20). Cini's bail was extended and he is to reappear for a mention on September 6. The matter is being prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.
■ The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission this month took Pepe’s Ducks Ltd to the Federal Court over allegations of misleading and deceptive conduct. Judge Bromberg heard that Pepe’s Ducks had used the words ‘open range’ and an outdoor duck picture on its packaging, as well as wording inclduing ‘Grown Nature’s Way’. The company made representations that its animals spent a substantial time outdoors and near an outdoor body of water. They were, in fact, barn raised. The company has to change its packaging, and publish a notice at its website for 90 days relating to its “false and misleading conduct”. The company has to pay a $375,000 pecuniary penalty, and pay $25,000 towards the ACCC costs.
EDITOR BLAMES Rumour Mill ‘DEPRESSED CONDITIONS’
Whispers
In Court
■ St r a t h c o n a Baptist Girls’ Grammar School has booked a session at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Thu.) at 9.30am, to apply for a re-hearing against Margaret Zani regarding an alleged civil debt matter.
Sad news
● Paul Mees ■ Public transport advocate Assoc. Professor Paul Mees, an RMIT University academic died last Wednesday (June 19) after cancer.
It’s their funeral
Hear It Here First
Gay exemption allowed ■ The Victorian AIDS Council/Gay Men’s Health Centre has won an application to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for it to advertise for and employ only gay men in the roles of peer counsellor, registered nurse and receptionist
Police powers in doubt ● Final edition of the Peninsula Weekly ■ Fairfax Media’s community newspaper joint venture partner’s Eastern Region Editor, Greg Videon, has blamed “continued depressed market conditions” for the closure of seven Metro Media Publishing titles. Final editions appeared for each of the Peninsula Weekly, Frankston Weekly, Casey Weekly Cranbourne, Casey Weekly Berwick, Monash Weekly, Knox Weekly, Maroondah Weekly and Yarra Ranges Weekly. “Depressed market conditions” seem not to be affecting the independent Mornington Peninsula News Group that last week increased the size of its Western Port News (60 pages), Southern Peninsula News (48pp), Mornington Mail (48pp), Frankston Times (44pp), and Chelsea-Mordialloc News (24pp).
■ The ability of Victoria Police officers to pull over vehicles and search them without a reasonable cause is being questioned following a court ruling by Magistrate Duncan Reynolds in Melbourne.
Campaign link to Julia ■ Liberals in the northern suburbs are targetting Jenny Macklin MHR, emphasising her links with Prime Minister Julia Gillard.
Journos look for diversion ■ Age journalists Nick McKenzie, Royce Millar and Ben Schneider are seeking to have charges alleging unlawful accessing of a data base to be dealt with by the Magistrates’ Court diversion program.
E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au
■ Victorian funeral directors are angered by the decision of The Age newspaper to outsource the handling of their funeral notices to the Philippines. Local funeral directors say there are increased errors in death and funeral notices because of the staff being overseas.
Alleged ■ Hertz Australia Pty Ltd are due at Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court at 11am this morning to allege a civil debt matter against Andrew Bennison in relation to “hire of goods and chattels”.
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Page 22 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Melbourne
Melbourne
Observer
Observer ALL ABOARD Ash On Wednesday
Victoria’s Independent Newspaper First Published September 14, 1969 Every Wednesday
Freemasons Spotlight Robert Brennand
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● An East Preston tram (via St Georges Rd) in 1944 ■ Criticisms about crowded Melbourne public transport brought this photo from the archives. It shows an overcrowded East Preston line in the war years of 1944. ‘Menfolk’ would attach themselves to the outside of the W-Class ‘cars’ run by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board. After the War when he returned from active service, my late Dad, Jim, would walk from his City workplace, several stops to Nicholson St, to save a ‘section’ on his tram fare. Inside the crowded tram, passengers magieditor@melbourneobserver.com.au cally juggled copies of the with Ash Long, Editor broadsheet afternoon newspaper, The Herald. “For the cause that lacks assistance, And conductors would ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resissomehow make their way tance from one end of the ‘car’ For the future in the distance, to another, collecting fares, And the good that we can do” keeping the calm, and sending ‘all clear’ signals to the driver at each stop. Compare that the airconditioned comfort today, with passengers loaded up with their iPads.
Long Shots
Observer Treasury
Ourselves ■ Here is an update of some of our Observer team members. ■ Country Crossroads columnist Rob Foenander is on his Australian road tour, and we hear he has reached Carnarvon, Western Australia. ■ Di Rolle is about to have a week or two off, on mid-year leave. ■ Yvonne Lawrence is recovering from a fractured hip, after earlier breaking ribs. ■ Cheryl Threadgold has returned from a week at Coolangatta, Qld. ■ We haven’t heard from John Pasquarelli, who we last heard was having treatment at a Townsville hospital.
Thoughts For The Week ■ “A positive attitude is like any other habit. The longer you have it, the stronger it becomes.” ■ “One of the best feelings in the world is emptying your pockets in the evening, and knowing you can leave all the junk there until the next day.
Observer Curmudgeon ■ “There is no traffic jam on the extra mile.”
Text For The Week ■ “He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’” - Job 37:6 The Melbourne Observer is printed by Streamline Press, 155 Johnston St, Fitzroy, for the publisher, Ash Long, for Local Media Pty Ltd, ABN 67 096 680 063, of the registered office, 30 Glen Gully Road, Eltham, Distributed by All Day Distribution. Responsibility for election and referendum comment is accepted by the Editor, Ash Long. Copyright © 2013, Local Media Pty Ltd (ACN 096 680 063).
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT COURT REPORTS Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Melbourne Observer shall in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any person or body due to information provided. The information is provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content. No inference of a party’s guilt or innocence should be made by publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.
Lisa McPhee and Robert Brennand filming a segment of Freemasons: The Inside Story. In our series of member profiles, today Freemasons Victoria catches up with Robert Brennand. Robert is 44 years old, an auditor, and a member of a number of metropolitan Lodges. Robert has also been a regular member filmed on Freemasons: The Inside Story. How did you find out about Freemasonry? Through a chance meeting with a complete stranger, who turned out to be a member of Freemasons Victoria. I was shopping one night and got talking to someone at the supermarket when we were both trying to find something. He asked whether I might be interested in Freemasonry and we met soon afterwards for coffee. After that I visited the Lodge at dinner and got to know some of the members before joining. What do you look forward to when you attend meetings? I generally refer to it as my night out with the boys. For me, it's a bit like the men's' shed concept. I enjoy the opportunity to meet with men who share similar values and have bonded through Lodge. What do your friends think about your involvement? Generally it's generated a sense of curiosity. It's been interesting as I've had three friends follow me and join after they found out I was a Freemason. I've found it is something they or their families have had an interest in, but didn't know anyone to talk to about it. Why is Freemasonry important to you? I enjoy the fraternal aspect of Freemasonry - the fact that every Freemason is my brother. I usually wear the masonic badge on my suit and find that Freemasons I don't know approach me to introduce themselves. It creates an instant rapport between its members and breaks down all other barriers - for example, religion, race/culture, social standing. Why is Freemasonry important to the community? I find Freemasonry encourages its members to contribute to the community in their everyday lives, as well as provides the opportunity to become involved in activities and projects that support charities and community organisations. How has Freemasonry inspired you and made you a happier person? I've found Freemasonry encourages me to bring out my better qualities. I can identify with its basic principles and values, so being involved in Freemasonry is a reminder to me to always strive and be the best person I can be. Have you enjoyed being a part of Freemasons: The Inside Story? It has been a wonderful experience, each member has a unique story and I feel privileged to have been able to share mine. The work that has gone into making this production a success will benefit many Freemasons, especially the community. The show provides a better understanding of what Freemasonry is, and the good work we do. I have enjoyed every episode.
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.
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 23
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Melbourne People
Circus Oz 2013: ‘Cranked Up’ Gala Night Photos: Jacob McFadden
Circus Oz is Cranked Up
● David Carlin and Linda Mickleborough
■ Premiering in Melbourne last year, Circus Oz sizzles back into the Big Top at Birrarung Marr with their reconstructed 2013 show . cranked up from touring regional Australia, and a New York City run of standing ovations. Circus Oz 2013: Cranked Up hurls the 2012 show, From The Ground Up, to new heights, It is a production that has been honed and allowed to play hilariously fast and loose. Expect the irreverent Circus Oz spirit, revel in seeing some of the company’s much-loved characters again and thrill at some daring new feats as Mark Sheppard steps into the shoes of roving indigenous provocateur destined to disrupt Circus Oz’s ongoing brand of ridiculous tomfoolery that leaves audiences howling for more. Credited with revitalising a traditional artform in a uniquely Australian way, Circus Oz is a rock-n-roll, animal-free circus that has influenced the development of circus arts around the world since its foundation in 1978, and this year turns 35. Season: until July 14. Bookings: Ticketmaster, 136 100.
● Maude Davey and Annie Davey
● Mike Finch, Frank Woodley and YY
● Jane De Zilwa, Nick De Zilwa and Kady De Zilwa
● Cameron, Stefan, Declan and Gail Dennis
● Susan Riley and Wendy McCarthy
● Sarah Ward
● Susie Dee, Nicci Wilks, Melinda Frith
● Tim Coldwell and Kon Karapanagiotidis
● Robyn Baillieu, Matt Wilson, Mike Finch, Ted Baillieu
● Wendy McCarthy, Heidi Victoria, LouOppenheim
Page 24 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
■ When you talk about the handsome film actors of the 1950s and 1960s I guess Jeffrey Hunter would have to be right up there. He was extremely good looking and a favourite of the ladies. Henry Herman ‘Hank’ McKinnies was born New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1926. Henry was an only child and when he was four his family moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In his teens he acted in productions with the North Shore Children's Theatre. During the 1940s Henry performed in summer stock and studied theatre at university. He was spotted by a Hollywood talent scout in 1950 and signed to a film contract with 20th Century Fox. He made his screen debut in an uncredited role in Julius Caesar. He adopted the stage name of Jeffrey Hunter and his next film Fourteen Hours also marked the screen debut of a beautiful young actress named Grace Kelly. He married actress Barbara Rush in 1950 and they had a son. The marriage ended in divorce in 1955. The film-going public loved Jeffrey Hunter and he was soon playing leading roles in films such as Red Skies Of Montana and Sailor Of The King. Jeffrey Hunter played a pivotal role in The Searchers in 1956 working with legendary director John Ford and co-starring with John Wayne.
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Whatever Happened To ... Jeffrey Hunter By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM He made another two films with John Ford: The Last Hurrah and Sergeant Rutledge. When I interviewed Constance Towers, his co-star in Sergeant Rutledge, Constance described Jeffrey as sweet and nice to work with but a little more private than other actors. He married Joan ‘Dusty’ Bartlett in 1957 and the couple had two children during their 10year marriage. Jeffrey was a good friend of British actor Roger Moore. His biggest film role came in 1961 when he played Jesus Christ in the epic film King Of Kings. Jeffrey Hunter was brilliant in that film. In 1965 he was cast as Captain Christopher Pike in the pilot episode of the new television
● Jeffrey Hunter
series Star Trek. There was apparently conflict over the salary offered and Jeffrey decided not to go ahead with his role. A young upcoming actor named William Shatner was cast as Captain James T. Kirk and the rest is history. In his later films during the 1960's he was billed as Jeff Hunter. He starred in many television series during his career and in his later years he worked in European films. Jeffrey was apparently very keen to get the lead role in the television series The Brady Bunch but the role went to Robert Reed. His final marriage was to Emily McLaughlin in 1969. Jeffrey Hunter suffered a suspected cerebral hemorrhage whilst on a plane. Two weeks later he fell at his home and fractured his skull. He was rushed to hospital but died on the operating table during surgery on May 27, 1969, at the age of 42. - Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce & PhilSundays at 8.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12 Noon 96.5FM is streaming on the internet. To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and follow the prompts
NEED FOR SPEED IN THE TERRITORY
■ Whilst I was living in Alice Springs, an iconic attraction was constructed. I went along to the official opening, sipping wine and nibbling on canapés with the rest of the VIP freeloaders. However, it transpired that it was indeed an icon - the Desert Park. The creatures and the exhibits and the information about the Centre are brilliant. One of the displays which developed over the years was the raptor interaction. It was a wedge-tailed eagle being fed by hand, and then flying off around the area across to the Macdonnells, and then back again to a keeper's wrist. This was a highlight of the Park for a few years, but then some wild wedgies took up residence nearby, and weren't very happy about their territory being transgressed. So they ousted the interloper, causing the display to be discontinued. Now, however, they've now got a new celebrity Wedgie, La Belle. He fell out of his nest and broke his wing at La Belle cattle station at the Top End, and is now proudly displaying himself to all and sundry in Alice Springs. "He's playful like a puppy dog," says the zoo keeper Melissa Lee. ■ At last. Sanity seems to be prevailing, and the speed limit in the Territory is about to be reviewed. Whilst this may seem to be sanity to some, there are admittedly those who don't share this sentiment. From time immemorial there wasn't any speed limit, except through towns - on the open road, it was, like an autobahn - open slather. Then Labor won, and a 130-kmh limit was imposed. One could previously barrel up behind a police car travelling at about 130, pull out, give him a wave, and on your way at 150. I rarely exceeded this, and usually sat on about 140. Although I was in a hurry to get to the Rock one afternoon in a hire car and 210 was broached, but I didn't feel too comfortable at this speed in a Commodore. One mate, in his Porsche, would take two hours for the same drive - 450 kms. It seems that there are quite a few factors involved in Territory road fatalities, and speed on the empty and open roads is a distant fourth, being far less than seatbelt noncompliance and
The Outback Legend
with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au drink driving and unroadworthy jalopies. So, with any luck, the new government will change things, and the NT's vast distances will be a little easier to negotiate in the near future. ■ There is a move Australia-wide to increase the official drinking age to 21. One politician noted that this probably wouldn't make much difference in the NT. I would agree with him, in that most Territorians start drinking when they're about 10. Then there's Milo Wild. He was seen by officers drinking in the Duck's Nuts last Saturday night. Unfortunately for him, he had been banned from drinking after an incident last ANZAC Day, when he pushed over four port-a-loos, exposed himself, and threw his own urine at officers. Then he was given three months' jail, suspended for two years, but he was to teetotal during that time. Now, back in court for breaking this agreement, he pleaded with the magistrate to jail him for three months rather than continue his dry spell.
He claimed that he was depressed that he had to stay home rather than be out at pubs with his mates. Magistrate O'Neill said that he thought it "extraordinary" that "life was not worth living without alcohol." " People of his generation go out and have a good time on the weekend and drink", his lawyer said. To which the magistrate replied: "There is nothing to do in Darwin for a strong healthy young man except drink?" Apparently not. ■ Dogs all over Australia are stressed around fireworks, and the NT has a bigger problem because they are legal and Territory Day is the traditional expression of explosive mayhem. Last year 111 dogs went missing, with only 67 being reunited with their owners. Unfortunately some just don't return and others are hit by cars. Some also strangle themselves on their collars when they try and jump fences, and tear down doors in panic. Top End's Lost and Found's Naomi Oliver recommends that owners put their dogs in a closed room with curtains drawn, with relaxing music playing. But then some owners go to extremes. Leading up to Territory Day many dogs are being dosed up with Valium and Diazepam and Xanax! Parap Vet Hospital medicated a hundred last year. Susan Gurry reported that a lot of owners put their pets on behaviourmodifying drugs up to a month beforehand to prepare them. I have always known that he's undoubtedly man's best friend, and if it means keeping him home and happy, then dose him up I reckon, ■ I can't seem to go for a week without my mate Rex Niendorf poking his nose into some issue or other. Usually its snakes, but this time it's spiders. Alice is always awash with arachnids and I have never seen a greater concentration of red-backs than in the Todd Mall - they are under seats and rocks, lurking in hollow metal fence pickets, and creeping into every dark nook and cranny they can find. Whilst deadly in themselves, I quite like them because of their peaceful temperament. Unlike Funnel Webs, the deadliest in the world.
They are mean and nasty, rearing up with glistening venom laden fangs at just the slightest movement. Even though the Central Australian variety differs a little from the infamous Sydney species, it nevertheless can be regarded as being just as deadly. A new species was found at the Rock few years ago. And then there's the fearsome looking Mouse Spider.
Rex was recently doing a snake show at Acacia Hill School when one scuttled across the path. "They're very lethal," he told the kids. About the same size and appearance and fierce temperament as a Funnel Web, they have a striking and brilliant red head and fangs, so they certainly look the part. - Nick Le Souef ‘The Outback Legend’
Melbourne News Briefs
Special guests
Bullying denied
■ The Sugar And Spice radio program tomorrow (Thu.) on 3RPP (9am-11am) will feature Eurogliders original Gace Knight. The program, hosted by Bob Phillips and Judy Banks-Phillips, will also include an interview with Australian rock legend Ronnie Burns chatting about the upcoming Go! Show reunion concert. 3RPP can be heard in the Frankston-Mornington Peninsula area, as well as Melbourne’s southern suburbs on 98.7 FM and 98.3 FM. It is also streamed live on the internet: rppfm.com.au
■ Outgoing Chair of the Wingate Ave Children’s Co-Operative, Angela Kenneally, has told the Moonee Valley Leader that she has not bullied staff at the Ascot Vale centre. Parents proposed a motion of noconfidence in Ms Kenneally, and plans to stay in the position until a new committee is appointed.
Breached order
■ A 51-year-old Hurstbridge man who has previously had a stalking conviction, has been ordered to do 200 hours of community service after breaching an intervention order taken out by his ex-wife. Megan Bailey of the Diamond ■ Western Bulldogs President Valley Leader reports that Magistrate Peter Gordon has confirmed that the Michael Wighton heard that the football club is examining the possi- man has begun to see a psychologist. bility of a return to the use of the name of Footscray. Members are being asked to vote on the change. The Western Bulldogs name was adopted in 1996, and ■ Footscray Rugby Union Club the final game at the Western Oval isn to pay $2500 for damage to 15 cars after a violent clash at its grounds. was Round 21, 1997. The cash had been destined for new jumpers for Club players.
C’mon Footscray
Thugs hit club
Indecent assault
■ Francis Gerard O’Sullivan, 58, father-of-two adult children, has pleaded guilty to the indecent assault of an intellectually-disabled woman at Lilydale. Magistrate Donna Bakos heard that O’Sullivan had been married for more than 30 years, and had fragile self-esteem. O’Sullivan was placed on a 24month community corrections order and is now a registered sex offender.
Church approved ■ A bid by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church to build a 800-person church at Werribee, has been approved by Wyndham Council despite 81 objections. The vote was 5-4. Objections specified concerns about traffic matters, car parking, neighbourhood character, noise and amenity.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013 - Page 25
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Melbourne
Observer Magazine
AGE OF DISCONTENT
■ Saturday’s editorial in The Age, calling for Prime Minister Julia Gillard, has produced an outpuring of critical comment from its readers. Already in a serious print-circulation decline, and with 1900 jobs being eliminated at parent company Fairfax Media, The Age made a bold move in distancing itself from its hard-core “left-of-centre” readers. Before switching off its comments section at The Age website on Saturday , the newspaper was copping a flood of complaints from its readers. ■ Reader Peter said: “Really disagree with this editorial. It completely side steps the media's (The Age's) role over the past few years in pandering to the lowest form of debate. “Simple slogans fit nicely with front page headlines. Its apparently all too hard for this newspaper to present complex ideas to simple folk, so why should a government be able do better? “ And revenue falls for print media has seen many articles reduced to little more than passing on the press releases. “If you want to debate policy then damn well debate policy. If you want to not only engage in wild leadership speculation (spread by off the record rumormongering), but then go further to make yourself the news then I'll be cancelling my delivery subscription this weekend. “What's next weeks headline? Don't bother reading! Don't bother voting! The Age knows what's best!” ■ ‘Harshdozer’ said: "I wish to also stress to the editior that I am not a Gillard supporter. “Editor do your job and keep your opinion out of it. The Age is already a paper that sliding out of relevance. Once you put up the pay wall most of us will leave. Don't give us more reasons to leave early.” ■ Garry said: “Sounds to me as if the Fairfax media have been permeated by far right wing interests to get Gillard out.” ■ Azima said: “As to The Age raising this issue and spruiking for a change of leadership; get back to the policy issues Mr Editor, give us something which helps us to make an informed decision at the only election that counts. Your editorial could be viewed as yet another distraction.” ■ Azure said: “This opinion piece represents a failure of democracy. The press has consistently failed to educate the public about the limitations of minority government and contextualize ■ Age reader Jenny said: “Since when has The Age assumed the right to decide who runs the country-they show no regard for due process. “It is the most arrogant of acts in an arrogont industry. You beat the story up and then tell us what to think. “When will you get it- you are there to report the news, not some hyped-up opinion.I will be cancelling my subscription.”
■ Reader Leo was one of many Age readers quick to respond on the newspaper’s editorial calling for Julia Gillard to stand down. "The Age led Labor here to the brink of annihilation and now it turns on Gillard for following its call?? “It was The Age who berated Howard's asylum seeker policies as inhumane, leading to the current failed policies and over 1000 deaths “It was The Age who fanned climate alarmism and called for the Carbon Tax “It was The Age who celebrated the misogyny speech and egged on Gillard to fight a credibility-destroying gender war “It was The Age who excused endless deficits and mountainous debt that will burden us for a generation “By all means The Age can choose a side on key issues (if it does so transparently rather than pretending to be objective), but I'm amazed that The Age would then turn on the politician that headed The Age's call. “Labor faces total annihilation entirely because it has adopted policies championed by The Age."
PHOTO: ASH LONG
● Andrew Holden, Editor-in-Chief of The Age “Instead, pressured by their own eco- personality politics has been around nomic demise, they take the easy road since Hawke - can The Age please to gaining readership. take responsibility for contributing to “There remains a faint hope that the this? media will take some responsibility “The Age could have at any time in towards the democratic process and the last three years focussed on polistop this nonsense, and we will actu- cies, but chose not to do so ...why not? ally begin to have an election instead This is the last straw - I have bought of the blow torch continually being ap- my last Age.” plied to Julia Gillard about 'the lead- ■ ‘Petal’ said: “The Age is an active ership,' in the name of debate. The pub- participant in trying to bring about this lic is ignorant and the media is keep- change - without having the real people ing them that way. Hang your heads in having their say (the voters).” shame.” ■ Age reader ‘Disenchanted’ said: ■ ‘Joke’ said: “Newspapers in general have lost all credibility to me. It's “Shame on you Age. It is not the vota joke what is going on at the moment ers that get to decide what is put in and the media are largely to blame ... the papers every day But remember this The Age ... you have “The voters are sick of the leadlost my support entirely as a balanced ership speculation because that is all newspaper. The end.” the media reports! And Fair fax is ■ ‘Junip Rudster’ said: “Fairfax just as complicit in this as the others has been as complicit as Murdoch's “Maybe you should take a stand media in whipping up the so-called and not report a single leadership ar'leadership debate' time and again - foticle? Instead of whinging it's all cussing particularly on our woman PM. Gillard's fault.” “Some historical context please -
■ ‘Uncle Snapper’ said: “The issue, as The Age states, is that people aren't listening to Gillard. “The media could publish her every utterance or give her interviewa every evening during the prime time news hour, people will just switch off. “She holds rallies or appearances and nobody turns up, Rudd does the same and gets mobbed - that's not the media’s fault.” ■ ‘Gan1’ said: “When I opened my paper this morning I was extremely disappointed in the headline because that sort of headline is something I would expect to see on a News Limited paper.” ■ ‘Charles Foster Kane’ commented: “Interesting comments made by long time readers of The Age despair at the direction that the current editors have taken the newspaper. “This left a gap open for other news and media to step in and take the place you once held. We have moved on, now we read The Guardian Australia, Crikey, Independent Australia and others. “News Ltd papers have the far right conservative readers paying for subscription do you expect they will buy another subscription to read Fairfax as well? “You lost credibility dredging up dirt, three years of leadership speculation, you could have balanced this with some policy articles. “I expect Abbott to change media laws in favour of Murdoch and others, what will be the consequences for Fairfax? “For the sake of Fairfax someone in charge has to stand aside.” ■ ‘JB’ said: “I think Victorians need a newspaper that reports on policies and ideas rather than being obsessed
● The Age called on the Prime Minister to stand aside with the personalities and school-yard name calling between politicians. “This is outrageous call by what used to be a quality newspaper. Why should I pay for this dribble to be delivered to my door every day when I can access more quality journalism elsewhere; sport articles direct from the AFL; and reprints of articles that I saw on Twitter last month? “Perhaps it's time for The Age's editor to stand aside for the good of journalism and quality political debate.” ■ Paul asked: “What right does a newspaper have to dictate the leader of this nation?” ■ Leo said: “To The Age. You now exhibiting sign of of psychosis as a newspaper by trying to say that your opinion pieces are somehow separate from the newspaper itself. “The Age chooses the angles and the pieces it wants to print and puts headings to emphasise the angle it prefers. “So grow up and take responsibility or may be after 150 years in business you are getting very old and losing your sanity.” ■ ‘AT’ commented: “This is not a newspaper's business: who should run the nation. Prime Minister Gillard is a great patriot of our country. “It's up to us, the people, to decide: who deserves to be the Prime Minister. A newspaper's business is just to publish funny stuff: about sports, travel, food, real estate, etc. The principal issues are decided by the citizens of this country, not by journalists.” ■ Lou said: “Start reporting on the policies of the government instead of trying to change the leader. It is the media who is not doing it's job properly. Report the news. Report the facts for a change! I support PM Gillard 100 per cent.” ■ Mark asked: “Why is the editor so worried about changing the leader now, when theres only 90 days to go before all will be set right ... according to him and most pundits. Let things take their course!” ■ RTJ commented: “What a nonsense editorial. To take Australians for such fools and to not even try to disguise the incredible Labor bias of this newspaper. “This has been the most remarkably incompetent Government this country has ever known, and to pretend otherwise is absurd. The editor of this newspaper should stand aside.” ■ ‘Zacca’ said: “As a reader of The Age for 60 years you have disgraced what was a wonderful newspaper.”
Page 26 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, June 26, 2013
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Observer Readers’ Club 100 Years Ago The Gippsland Times Friday, June 26, 1913 Tie result of the Gippsland election has been officially declared, :and the candidates have thanked their suppor ters. The figures are substantial enough to leav no room for mistake as to the opinion of the majority of the electors, no matter how much can bw said as "to that opinion having been formed on false information. That the electors were misled, grossly misled in some cases, there is abundant evidence, and we have no hesitation in saying thtat whilst there were many honorable opponents who forced home their point. by what appealed to them as legitimate means, there were others who did not stop at anything to attain their end. LAW CASE In the action brought by Jamcs Clark against the Melbourne Caledonian Society for wrongful dismiasal on the grounds of intoxication while acting as club steward and secretary, Judge Wasley gay a verdict for defendant but would not allow costs to the society. THE SECRET SIDE OF THE RAILWAY. SOME FACTS AROUT ENGLISH SYSTEMS. Have you noticed that when bags or parcels are left upon any of the platforms, they are placed a six feet from the edgo? Probably you have not but it is contrary to the regulations for them to remain less than six feet from the edge. Some years ago a terrible accident was caused in the North of England d by the falling of a heavily ladlen barrow in front of an express train, and this regulation is a result of that accident. GIPPSLAND HOSPITAL, WEEKLY REPORT. Patients admitted during past week ... 9 Patients discharged during past week ... 7 Patients died during past week ... 1 Patients remaining in hospital ... 38 Out-patients treated during past week ... 16
Melbourne Photo Flashback
Join in our chat IN PRINT: Read the Melbourne Observer every week. Buy at your newsagent, or by mail subscription. FACEBOOK: Follow our updates, and post your own coments at www.facebook.com/ MelbourneObserver TWITTER: Follow our updates, and post your own Tweets at www.twitter.com/ MelbourneObs BY POST: Mail contributions to Observer Readers’ Club PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095
● Iris Wright in front of her delicatessen. 319 Moreland Rd, Coburg. Circa 1929
Life’s Lessons
Reader Recipes
■ “If they rat on you once, they will rat on you again”. - Graham Richardson, politician
■ Latibule. A hiding place; a place of safety and comfort.
Trivia Challenge ■ What is the name of the original yellow Wiggle?
Your Stars with Christina La Cross ARIES A (MAR 21 - APR 20) Thinking of what might have been can do you no good. Working out what can make your life enjoyable can earn you both friends and lovers this weekend. Which will you choose? TAURUS (APR 21 - MAY 21) If you believe in your dreams, others will too. The longer you listen to those who don't know the first thing about your dreams, then the better you'll feel. Wear red for luck in love today. GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) Don't let the full Moon push you to accuse close ones of things they may not have done. Get your facts right, or you'll end up looking and feeling the fool. Phone calls bring appealing dates. CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) You're set to find yourself going to places you don't normally frequent and you start to realise that the world is a big place and you don't have to stick to the same old routines. LEO (JULY 24 - AUG 23) Other people are trying to push you into doing what they want you to and you know what? You're almost giving in. Make sure you speak up today before you get cornered by a controlling influence. VIRGO (AUG 24 - SEPT 23) This week's full Moon could see you telling tales on those you've so far avoided falling out with. You should know by now that this is how we're often pushed over the edge. Count to ten Virgo! LIBRA (SEPT 24 - OCT 23) The perfect day for you to sit down and have the heart to heart everyone has been avoiding. You see light at the end of the tunnel in a work matter via a phone call headed your way. SCORPIO (OCT 24 - NOV 22) Anyone can call themselves your friend but you need to look at what they've done for you recently before you can really hand them such a title. Aspects suggest you could do with raising your standards Scorpio! SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23 - DEC 21) The full Moon makes it hard for you to forgive those who've done you wrong. Remember to keep your cool. You don't want to end up being cast in the same light as them, do you? CAPRICORN (DEC 22 - JAN 20) Trying to talk to a loved one has been quite an effort recently, but today the words just start flowing. Is it sense or anger? Mean what you say. A major decision is about to rest on it. AQUARIUS (JAN 21 - FEB 19) The full Moon makes you look a little too deeply for cracks. Feel your way through today rather than analyzing every word and action of those around you. It's how you'll get to the real story. PISCES (FEB 20 - MARCH 20) It's too easy for you to blame others for bad work or mistakes, but do you really want to live with that on your conscience? Some of you may, but those that don't will be rewarded.
FAX: 1-800 231 312 E-MAIL: editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au
Birthdays/Celebrations
Word Of The Week
Answer: Greg Page
The Way We Were
● Carrot, zucchini and parsnip frittata fingers. Courtesy: taste.com.au Ingredients Melted butter, to grease 2 tsp light olive oil 80g (1/2 cup, firmly packed) grated green zucchini 60g (1/2 cup, firmly packed) Grated carrot 50g (1/2 cup, firmly packed) grated parsnip 2 green shallots, ends trimmed,finely chopped 3 eggs, lightly whisked 40g (1/3 cup) coarsely grated jarlsberg or tasty cheese 2 tbs finely chopped fresh parsley 1 tbs plain flour, sifted Method Notes Step 1 Preheat oven to 180°C. Brush a shallow, square 18.5cm (base measurement) cake pan with melted butter to lightly grease. Line the base and 2 opposite sides with non-stick baking paper, allowing it to overhang. Step 2 Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the zucchini, carrot, parsnip and shallots, and cook, stirring, for 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables soften. Remove from heat and set aside for 10 minutes to cool. Step 3 Combine vegetable mixture, egg, cheese, parsley and flour in a large bowl and stir until well combined. Step 4 Spoon vegetable mixture into prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake in oven for 12 minutes or until set. Remove from oven and set aside for 10 minutes to cool. Lift frittata from pan and place on a plate to cool completely. Cut into 12 fingers to serve.
They Said It ■ Suppose you were an idiot, and suppose you were a member of Congress; but I repeat myself. - Mark Twain ■ I am extraordinarily patient, provided I get my own way in the end. - Margaret Thatcher ■ Those who stand for nothing fall for anything. - Alexander Hamilton
■ Wedenesday, June 26. Observer reader Barbara Walterfang of Frankston South is 73. Marcie Jones is 68. Actor Steve Bisley is 63. ■ Thursday, June 27. Observer reader Harry Buring of Reservoir is 70. Happy birthday Adam Long of Rowville. Football identity Paul Roos is 50. ■ Friday, June 28. Observer reader Mr R. Seymour of Broadmeadows is 77. ■ Saturday, June 29. TV personality and businessman Mike Willesee is 71. ■ Sunday, June 30. Happy birthday Gigi Hellmuth of Burwood. Entertainer Glenn Shorrock is 69. ■ Monday, July 1. Happy birthday to Simon Parris and Jim Spreadborough. ■ Tuesday, July 2. Birthday honours to Sandy Kaye, and Heather Barry.
Cheerios ■ Special hello to Sheila Heath. ■ Cheerio to Dr Anthony Hadj of the Austin Hospital. ■ ‘Keep warm’ wishes to Jack Bryant.
Why Men Can’t Win ■ Thanks to Margo McLaren of Windsor: “If you work too hard, there is never any time for her. If you don't work enough, you're a good-fornothing bum. If she has a boring repetitive job with low pay, it's exploitation. If you have a boring repetitive job with low pay, you should get off your bottom and find something better. If you get a promotion ahead of her, it's favouritism. If she gets a job ahead of you, it's equal opportunity. If you mention how nice she looks, it's sexual harassment. If you keep quiet, it's male indifference. If you cry, you're a wimp. If you don't, you're insensitive. If you make a decision without consulting her, you're a chauvinist. If she makes a decision without consulting you, she's a liberated woman. If you ask her to do something she doesn't enjoy, that's domination. If she asks you, it's a favour. If you try to keep yourself in shape, you're vain. If you don't, you're a slob. If you buy her flowers, you're after something. If you don't, you're not thoughtful.