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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - Page 7
Showbiz Latest
It’s All About You!
Melbourne
Roller coaster of emotions Observer in ‘Madame Butterfly’ In This 88-Page Edition
Mark Richardson: Special Feature ..... Pages 4-5 Ash Long: The Melbourne Observer ......... Page 8 News: Spy camera in bathroom ............ Page 9 Di Rolle: “I love my job” .................... Page 10 Melb. Confidential: Derryn is flying high . Page 11 Long Shots: The Editor’s column .......... Page 12 Gavin Wood: Live from West Hollywood .. Page 15 David Ellis: Travel and Wine .................Page 16 Yvonne Lawrence” Life and Style .......... Page 17 Kevin Trask: Whatever Happened To ...... Page 18 Observer Readers Club: Your stars ........ Page 19 Jim Sherlock returns, Page 42 Cheryl Threadgold Julie Houghton
Madonna - Like A Prayer
Observer Showbiz
Latest News Flashes Around Victoria
● Anna Boulic in The Major Bruce Sessions: Volume 1, Madonna – Like a Prayer. ■ Music theatre makers The Present Tense and the audience were engaged as part of the Ensemble have jammed, improvised and show, being allowed to choose the order in delved deep into the queen of pop herself, which the tracks on the album were played Madonna to re-imagine the album Like A out. Prayer like never before seen or heard. Each song was done in a truly unique fashArtistic directors Bryce Ives and Nathan ion, with moments of happiness, sadness, deGilkes, as well as voice director Anna Boulic spair, and true celebration. (who also plays the harp majestically throughHighlights included moving and haunting out the concert) have utterly transformed this versions of Oh Father and Spanish Eyes, an iconic album. rendition of Cherish by the barberCollaborating with The Twoks (Xani Kolac adorable shop quartet, and the title song itself Like A on vocals and violin, and Mark Leahy on perPrayer played not only on just the fiddle and cussion), as well as a barbershop quartet sang beautifully by Xani Kolac, but also re(Aaron Holland, David MacNamara, Morgan Phillips and Jack Swann), the perfor- imagined once again to close the show in a mance comes together as a spectacle of mu- manner that would have had Madonna hersical genius unfolding before your eyes and self out of her seat and joining the chorus. Well done to the entire ensemble on a fantantalizsing your ears. To begin , I must admit I was concerned tastically entertaining evening of song (and that the music would remain on one level, a dance), and for thinking outside the box enough level in which you can appreciate the talent and having the foresight to imagine what could but are not quite sure whether it is actually be and for paying homage to one of the world’s what you yourself enjoy listening to. most loved pop stars in a truly contemporary I was very quickly however brought back and inventive manner. to my senses as the atmosphere transformed - Review by Stephen Leedin
● Antoinette Halloran ■ This is Melbourne Opera Company’s first production for the 2014 season. Director Caroline Stacey has two casts of lead singers for the season and in the performance I saw at the Athenaeum Theatre, the roller coaster of emotions was all there from the start to the finish. The audience was enthralled and visibly moved by characterisation by David Rogers-Smith as Pinkerton with strong clear tenor voice and looking handsome in white American Naval uniform. The graceful Emily Xiao Wang as CioCio seemed a little overpowered in the first act by the very large and loud orchestra under the baton of Greg Hocking. However, she quickly warmed into the role producing a clear strong soprano hitting those top notes spot on. Great characterisation by James Payne as the US Consul and Paul Biencourt as the crafty Marriage Broker. The scene in which Cio-Cio and her maid Suzuki Angela Hogan sing the duet Flower Song is particularly sweetly choreographed by Bettin Kurten with both singers moving gently forward in swaying motion from upstage to front in unison as they sing. ● Turn To Page 8
Real estate agent reprimanded ■ Melbourne real estate agent Eric Cohen has been reprimanded after being found guilty of unprofessional conduct. He must also pay $5000 to the Victorian Property Fund. Victorian Civil andAdministrative Tribunal Member Dr Rebecca French found that Cohen made disparaging comments about a property to an onlooker at an auction. The onlooker was a relative of the vendor. Cohen has been ordered to undertake courses in professional ethical training provided by a firm of solicitors or a real estate industry professional organisation. Cohen must take the courses at his own expense. The action was brought by the Acting Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria. VCAT was told that Cohen
had been asked to undertake an assessment of the property, but did not win the authority to sell. Dr French said that Cohen had a conversation with the daughter-in-law of the vendor of the property. He had expressed an interest in being property manager for the property. Dr French said there was a professional obligation upon Cohen to “do nothing at the auction that might in any way detract from its success”. Dr French commented: “A reprimand is a serious sanction. It is justified in light of the inappropriateness of the comments I found (Cohen) made to the vendor’s daughter-in-law.
“An order for the respondent to undertake education or re-education (as the case may be) is appropriate,” Dr French said. “Such education directly addresses protection of the public, ensuring that (Cohen) will have (as he says he has) ‘learnt his lesson’.” Dr French said Cohen did not wish to do these courses because he considered they involved training in basic sales and property management for a junior estate agent who lacks his years ofr experience. Cohen says he has lost $35,000 in ‘lost business revenue and costs’ that followed publication of a newspaper article giving Dr French’s reason for decision. Cohen says his family was targeted on Facebook. Dr French says Cohen has not shown remorse over his conduct.
Jailed for 3 months ■ Colac man Stephen Flanigan claimed to have taken 30 Xanax tablets before assaulting Police. The 45-year-old has been jailed for three months, reports the Geelong Advertiser.
Something smells ■ Mackay Casings has received three pollution abatement notices over excessive odour emissions, reports the Wangaratta Chronicle.
Fatal bushfire case ■ Grahame Earnest Code, 76, of Aberfeldy, accused of lighting a devastating local blaze last year, has been found guilty of failing to ensure adequate measures were taken to prevent the spread of the fire. Magistrate Peter Mellas said it could not be proved beyond reasonable doubt the fire had spread from Code's property to cause the fatal bushfire, reported the Latrobe Valley Express.
Website buy-up ■ Joy Thomas, owner-operator of Mildurabased web business Trondez, registered at least four domain names in the names of aspiring local politicians, reports the Sunraysia Daily. The domains were in the name of Jo Clutterbuck, Ali Cupper, Glenn Milne and Mark Cory.
Weather Forecast ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
Today (Wed.). Chance of rain. 16°-27° Thurs. Chance of storm. 16°-27° Fri. Chance of storm. 15°-27° Sat. Chance of rain. 14°-28° Sun. Clear. 15°-28°
Mike McColl Jones
Top 5 THE T OP 5 C OMMENT S HEARD TOP COMMENT OMMENTS WHEN THE POPE MET RUS SELL CRO WE RUSSELL CROWE 5. "Pay attention Cardinal Pell, he's not Wolverine!" 4. "Russell ... you should have called ‘The Drain Man’.” 3. "It is pretty authentic, but I don't think Noah ever said 'watch out for global warming’.” 2. Sister, I think you'll have to do better than Earl Grey ... check to see if we've got some DOM Benedictine left.” 1. "Russell ... I'll pray for 'Noah' if you get me Kylie's autograph.”
Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Indigenous Festival
● Archie Roach ■ Indigenous leaders, sporting greats and artists gather to celebrate the Mornington Peninsula's first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music and cultural festival on Sunday (Mar. 29) at Brioars Historic Park, Mt Martha. The inaugural Baany to Warrna Ngargee promises be a vibrant family friendly day aimed at showcasing traditional contemporary indigenous cultures. Headlining the concert program is renowned Victorian singer and songwriter, Archie Roach. Mornington Peninsula musician and artist Nola Lauch will also perform, along with lyrical storyteller, Mau Power, from the Torres Strait as he concludes his national tour, Yirrmal and the Yolngu Boys, former Bangarra dancer, Rheannan Port with local children and more. Popular Marngrook Footy Show host and former Saints player, Gilbert McAdam, will make a special appearance at the event. Baany to Warrna gets its name from the local Boon Wurrung word meaning water and an indigenous language group from West Coast South Australia, from where Artistic Director, Ben McKeown, hails. The festival program will run from 2pm to 9.30pm and will offer something for all ages, including an array of children's activities and a marquee dedicated to elders and seniors. Supreme Court Judge Kevin Bell will deliver an address and participate in a Q&A session on human rights and constitutional recognition, prior to the commencement of the music program. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner to the Human Rights Commission, Mick Gooda, Human Rights Commissioner, and former Mt Martha resident, Tim Wilson, and other experts will participate in this discussion. Children's activities include didgeridoo classes, Indigenous hip hop workshops, boomerang painting and photo booth opportunities with Gilbert McAdam, musicians and artists. Food will be a combination of traditional and contemporary fare, including exotic tastings for those who arrive early, catered by local indigenous catering company, Native Oz Cuisine. www.watertowater.org.au
Around Town
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Ash
■ Empire By Spiegelworld opened its return Melbourne season on the Rooftop At Crown. Three new weeks have been added to the season, with the hit how from New York City now playing until May 11. ■ The first in a series of public talks with a twist kicks off at Thornbury’s newest cultural event space - Nest Coworking – tonigh (Wed., March 26) from 6.30pm – 9pm. Aim is inspiring conversations with local thinkers.
The Melbourne Observer Editor Ash Long is heard: ● 8.45am Wed., with Ron Burke, 3NRG-FM Sunbury ● 10am Wed., with Denis Scanlan, Pulse 94.7 Geelong ● 9.15am Thu., with Bob and Judy Phillips, 3RPP Peninsula
Jen returns to the airwaves ■ Jennifer Hansen (pictured) is about to join the Mike Perso More Music breakfast radio program on Smooth 91.5 FM. Jennifer will present news updates from 5.30am to 9am. “I am delighted to be a part of the Smooth FM team. I’ve wanted to work in radio for ages, so to be given this opportunity is just wonderful. It’s very exciting to be taking on a new career direction,” Jennifer said. Hansen read Ten News with Mal Walden for more than 10 years. Her early career included stints at the Southern Cross and Sunday Observer.
Movers ■ Janet Spencer, Director of Buyer Solutions, represented Victoria at the 90th Anniversary of the Real Estate Institute of Australia Awards for Excellence last week held at MONA in Hobart. As a top three finalist for the, she was with the best of the best with Ray Chua from Momentum Wealth and Simon Pressly of Propertyology who took out the award. ■ The 14th annual Helpmann Awards will be held at the Capitol Theatre, Sydney, on Monday, August 18. The cermony will be telecast on Foxtel. ■ Garry Spry says the original Marquee Entertainment Luncheon Club has been postponed to Wednesday, April 9.
Kate says: ‘I’m Talking’
Pete The Sheep
■ Monkey Baa Theatre will present Pete The Sheep at Hamilton (July 8), Nuna-wading (July 10), Moonee Ponds (July 12), Warrnambool (July 21), Colac (July 24), Traralgon (July 28), Werribee (July 31(, Ringwood (Aug. 16), Altona (Aug. 19), Shepparton (Aug. 22), Moorabbin (Aug., 26), Geelong (Aug. 30), Mildura (Sep. 1), Wangaratta (Sep. 4). The Australian musical is directed by Jonathan Biggs with music composed by Phil Scott.
What’s On In Melbourne
★ ✩ ✭ ★ ✩ ★
Chelsea Bernier will play the lead role in Barbie The Musical being staged at the Palais, April 5-7. Nominations for the My Brother Jack Awards staged by Glen Eira City Council close on Monday, April 28. The Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show opens today (Wed.) and runs until Sunday (Mar. 30). People wanting a speaking career can attend a seminar this Saturday (Mar. 29) at the Hotel Grand Chancellor. Bernadette Peters will appear at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Monday-Tuesday, April 7-8. The Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival: Fash ion Film Series continues at Fed Square until March 31.
Myer Arts Awards ■ CIRCA, a circus and physical theatre troupe, has been awarded the Group Award ($80,000) in the Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards. One of Australia’s most widely-performed playwrights, Daniel Keene, is the joint individual winner ($25,000). He is joined by composer Elena Kats-Chernin . Mohindar Dhillon, who has presented some of India’s greatest Hindustani and Carnatic musicians and dancers, wins the Joint Facilitator’s Prize ($10,000) He is sharing this honour with Jill Morgan who has worked tirelessly with multicultural and indigenous artists. The national awards are determined by a Judging Committee chaired by Carrillo Gantner (Chairman of the Sidney Myer Fund) and this year they included: Paul Dyer (Artistic Director of the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra), Brett Sheehy (Artistic Director of Melbourne Theatre Company), Hannah Skrzynski (Director of Creative Asia) and Sarah Neal (Executive Producer, Malthouse Theatre). The Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards were established in 1984 by the Trustees of the Sidney Myer Fund, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of Sidney Myer, a passionate advocate and great friend to the arts.
Emily performs ● Kate Ceberano will be in conversation with Morag Fraser, Chair of the Board of Montsalvat, Eltham, on Friday, April 11. She is promoting her new book, I'm Talking.
Shaking all over
● There was a surprise guest performer at the joint party for Fran Howson andTerry Davis at 4 Boroughs Bar, Hardware Lane, City, on Saturday. Entertainer Normie Rowe dropped by to sing. Photo: Facebook
● From Page 7
Madame Butterfly The sparse set, designed by Caroline Stacey with Greg Carroll, using opaque floor to ceiling screens to very good effect to divide rooms and set scenes is enhanced by lighting designed by Gareth Simmonds. The 24-strong Melbourne Opera Chorus gave well-disciplined support under the direction of Chorus Master Raymond Lawrence. It is a shame that for all the hard work, the performances of this beautiful production of Madame Butterfly are so few. Performance: May 3 at 8pm Venue: Monash University’s Alexander Theatre Running time: 2 ½ hours with one 25 minute interval. Tickets: 9905 1111 or Artsonline The performance is sung in English - Rita Crispin
● Emily Uhlrich, lead singer in The Tender Land, reviewed by Cheryl Threadgold on Page 9 (at right). Photo: Blue Tree Studios
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - Page 9
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Court Roundsman
Super company fined $10,200
Living The Dream
Performing this Sunday
Briefs Struck off
■ Jodie Leigh Doull has this month been disqualified from teaching by the Victorian Institute of Teaching. On March 3, she was found guilty of the sexual offences of three counts of an indecent act with a child under 16.
Warning
■ Computer and electronics retailer Penta Group has received a formal warning after an Australian Communications and Media Authority investigation found it was responsible for sending unsolicited marketing emails. Some of the emails also failed to offer the ability to unsubscribe.
To Court ■ Vera Gazzard has requested an Arbitration hearing at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (Thu.) where she is scheduled to make a civil claim (vehicle property damage) against Adrian Boxer.
■ SuperHelp Australia Pty Ltd has paid a $10,200 infringement notice penalty after making potentially misleading statements about the cost of setting up a self-managed superannuation fund using SuperHelp’s administration services. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission raised concerns about the SuperHelp advertisment that ran in October last year. The representations were that fund set up was free and that pension fund set up was free, subject to ‘*conditions’. No conditions were disclosed in the advertisement. ASIC was concerned that although advertised as free, the conditions for fund set up required investors to pay $475 upfront – half the annual administration fee – to be eligible for ‘free’ fund setup. ‘ There were also restrictions on the number of members a fund could have and how many investments could be made. ASIC was also concerned that pension fund setup was not free under any circumstance for investors under 60 years of age. ASIC Deputy Chairman Peter Kell said: “It is crucial that investors are not misled when it comes to the cost of establishing an SMSF. “Setting up an SMSF is an extremely important financial decision and consumers have a right to expect that representations made about setup costs reflect the actual costs they will incur,” Mr Kell said ASIC acknowledges SuperHelp has taken steps to correct its advertising and is developing improved processes for the sign-off of advertisements. The payment of an infringement notice is not an admission of a contravention of the Australian Securities and nvestment Investment Commission Act consumer protection provisions. ASIC can issue an infringement notice where it believes it has reasonable grounds.
● Bassist Shannon Birchall (left) and pianist Jeremy Woolhouse. ■ Pianist Jeremy Woolhouse and bassist Shannon Birchall are performing on Sunday (March 30) at 2pm at the Richmond Uniting Church, 304 Church St, Richmond (cnr Waltham Place). The duo features compositions from Jeremy stemming from the traditions of jazz and branching out to embrace gospel, contemporary jazz, pop, classical and South American music. In the duet setting, the virtuosity of Shannon Birchall comes to the fore as the bass weaves a rich tapestry with the piano. Jeremy and Shannon first collaborated in 2002 in the Estuary Three jazz-tango project on Jeremy’s album Thumbnails. The duo reunited in 2012 to record The Scenery Of Life Unfolding and continue the journey into lightness and darkness, illusion and delusion. Performance: Sunday, March 30 at 2pm Venue: Richmond Uniting Church, 304 Church St, Richmond. Duration: 70 minutes (no interval) Tickets: $18/$16. Bookings: www.jazzpiano.com.au or phone 9819 0845 - Cheryl Threadgold
Spy camera in bathroom ■ A University of Melbourne medical student who used a digital video recording pen to film female students in their bathroom has been denied a Working With Children permit. It means the Asian student, who is almost at the end of his medical studies, will not be able to finish his degree. Judge John Bowman, Deputy President of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, said the student’s application was “very worrying”. “My view remains that a reasonable person, acquanited with all the matters that I have set, would not, for example, allow his or her
16- or 17-year-old daughter to have direct unsupervised contact with the Applicant whilst he was engaged in any type of child-related work. The student was appealing the decision of the Department of
Justice to refuse the application. The Tribunal heard the student had been on a student visa, but is now on a tourist visa that shall expire in the near future. The student had “powerful urges” to spy on his female colleagues, and would put the spy pen in the toothbrush holder or top of the bathroom sink. He would later return, collect the pen, and used his laptop computer to view the footage, which included six women showeringm, undressing or having a bath. Police were called after one of the women discovered the pen, and would not return it to the man. She laid a complaint with the landlord.
Melbourne Observations
Astral City film
with Matt Bissett-Johnson
■ Spiritual alternative cinema, Astral City, is being shown on Saturday (March 29) at 7.30pm, followed by discussion at Magpie House, 48 Main St, Upwey. George Neo, who conducts Yogaplex Yoga School, arranges for the cinema screenings most Saturday evenings. His organisation seeks to integate mind, body and spirit: “Yoga is a nondenominational scientic practice that tones and stimulates the most sensitive instument in the universe, our very own nervous system. “This encompasses physical, physiological, mental , emotional and energetic practices,” George says. For more information: www.yogaplex.com.au
● Simon Chugg ■ Opening on March 26 as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Simon Chugg is Living The Dream. It is a one-man show about what happens when a fascinating reality collides with preconceived ideals about destiny and who we are. Written and performed by Simon Chugg, the show is a modern 'fable' where truth is both stranger and funnier than fiction, filled with wondrous tales from the lowest echelons of the Australian entertainment industry to the highest dimensions of the astral plane. Marking his debut full-length solo show and return to the Melbourne MICF stage after a number of years in the UK, 2013 Raw Comedy finalist Simon Chugg has written, collaborated and performed with some of Australia's best comedians and musicians including Michael Chamberlin and Charlie Pickering, most recently co-writing and directing Lisa-Skye's 2012 critically acclaimed Ladyboner. Venue: Caz Reitops Dirty Secrets, 80 Smith St., Collingwood Dates: March 26 – April 19 (select dates only), Previews March 26-27 Time: 6.45pm Duration: 60 minutes Tickets: $18 Full, $15 Conc, Group (4 or more) Bookings: Ticketmaster 1300 660 013, www.comedyfestival.com.au or at the door - Cheryl Threadgold
Lyric Opera show ■ Independent opera company Lyric Opera of Melbourne will transport audiences to a theatrical world where prejudice and small-town mentality prevail, in a moving production of The Tender Land by Aaron Copland, from May 2-10. Originally written for television in the 1950s, The Tender Land is a beautiful and poignant story about coming of age in the face of bigotry. The Lyric Opera production challenges the fine line between reality and theatre and aims to demonstrate how relevant, powerful and accessible opera can be in the modern world. Director John Kachoyan says: “It is a moving and enormously current story about rural isolation, xenophobia and the tyranny of distance Inspired by the Great Depression-era photographs of American photographer Walker Evans, The Tender Land, which is sung in English, tells the story of an isolated rural family’s struggle for control when two unwelcome drifters arrive in town. … Pat Miller, musical director and conductor for Lyric Opera says, “Copland created the ‘American’ sound that audiences recognise instantly, and he uses this sound most poignantly.” The Tender Land includes an ensemble of Melbourne’s most exciting developing artists, accompanied by a 13-piece chamber orchestra. Season: May 2-10 (five shows). Times: Fri 7.30pm, Tues, Thurs and Sat 7.30pm, Sun 3.00pm. Venue: Chapel Off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel St., Prahran. Tickets: $49.50 Full, $39.50 Concession, $35 Children and under 35s Booking: 8290 7000 www.chapeloffchapel.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold
Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
To
Di For
Standby for ‘Barbie The Musical’
● Chelsea Bernier in Barbie Live! The Musical ■ It had to happen, Barbie Live! The Musical is coming. EMS Entertainment and Life Like Touring have announced the world-class creative minds and vibrant talent behind blockbuster show Barbie Live! The Musical, set to complete a limited, one-off Australian tour in April. Barbie fans: I have been well informed that it’s time to get your sparkle on! Tickets are on sale now from Ticketmaster in Melbourne. Director and choreographer Kobi Rozenfeld is one of the world’s most renowned, innovative choreographers, and has worked with Beyonce´, Macy Gray and Britney Spears, and was a judge on international TV show So You Think You Can Dance. Bursting onto the Hollywood sound stage of her new movie, Barbie encourages her co-star Teresa to believe in herself, communicating the importance of overcoming fear and the power of friendship. What I like about this project is that Barbie Live! transports audiences to inspirational scenes from Swan Lake, The Princess And The Popstar, and Mariposa And Fairy Princess based on the hit Mattel movies of the same name. I remember as a young girl my mother taking to the theatre and the ballet and it never left me. The wonder, the education and the love of the theatre introduced as soon as possible to children is so important. Fresh-faced talent Chelsea Bernier plays Barbie not only in the musical but is the official Barbie at the mega Barbie’s Dreamhouse Experience installation in the USA. With Randy Dierkes as Ken and an entire cast of 19 highly skilled dancers and singers, Barbie Live! features high voltage urban dance routines, uplifting pop songs and universal themes for all ages. The brightly coloured, fast paced show is performed against an impressive range of elaborate sets designed by the multi-award winning Stanley A. Meyer (Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida, Disney's The Beauty and the Beast). A production that took 1000 litres of pink paint and 2 gazillion pieces of glitter to create also features Barbie undergoing more costume changes than a runway fashion show. The entire 90-minute production includes 230 flamboyant costumes designed by Aviad Arik Herman (Miss Universe). This April, the 15-tonne show will arrive on Australian shores for one time only: with tour dates in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth this is the only chance to see Barbie Live! The Musical in Australia. The production will continue its international tour after Australia.Barbie fans in other cities are encouraged to contact premium ticketing partner Showbiz who have teamed up with Mantra Hotels to offer exclusive stay-and-see packages. Find out more at Showbiz.com.au … audiences will be glittered pink! Saturday-Monday,April 5-7, Palais Theatre, Melbourne Ticketmaster 136 100. I have been keeping up to date with the latest hot pink gossip on www.facebook.com/barbieliveaustralia - I encourage all parents to take their children to this production.
I love my job! with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE
● Nadiah Idris of So You Think You Can Dance, story below
Dr Karl’s fantasy ■ So many international artist come to Australia and it is always good to hear the best stories. I have heard nothing but praise about the beautiful Eva Longoria and Paula Abdul. Paula is here, of course, to judge on So You Think You Can Dance Australia. She dropped by downtown Erinsborough to film a cameo appearance on Channel 11’s Neighbours. What fun this must have been for the rest of the cast. Her appearance on the show involves a romantic storyline with Dr Karl Kennedy (Alan Fletcher) who reveals a long time crush on the acclaimed singer, songwriter and dancer. I like Paula, I think she has chutzpah. Neighbours fans will have to wait until June to find out if Dr Karl’s fantasy comes true, or if he and wife Susan Kennedy (Jackie Woodburne) make it to their 20th wedding anniversary. Perhaps we will discover that opposites do attract? Paula Abdul, I have been told, remembers watching Neighbours when she was in England in the 1980s, and thought it was a lot of fun. For it still to be popular over 30 years is indeed an amazing achievement. A little bird told me too that Paula found Dr.Karl very charming! Neighbours can be seen weeknights at 6.30pm on Eleven. So You Think You Can Dance Australia is seen at 7.30pm Thursdays on Ten.. Talking about So You Think You Can
● Paula Abdul Dance Australia, what rehearsals and was a talent is young Vic- pretty much dancing torian dancer Nadiah for her life. Idris. With a face like she I was so sorry to see has and her talent I am her eliminated due to sure we will see her on injury. She sustained a the TV screen again fractured rib during soon.
Helen Reddy returns home ■ A reminder to mark in your diary that Helen Reddy is coming home to perform for the first time in 25 years. Entertauiner Katy Perry admits that Melbourne-born Helen Reddy who put the ROAR in her latest single. Katy was inspired by Helen’s anthem, I Am Woman. Helen will perform on Saturday, April 5, at Hamer Hall, The Arts Centre Melbourne. It will be worth seeing. Itill bring back many memories of a very important time in our culture for women particularly. Tickets on sale now, 1300 182 183 or visit www.artscentremelbourne.com.au and book online. I will be in the front row.
● Helen Reddy
Helpmann Awards
● Evelyn Richardson ■ I watched the most wonderful documentary on pay-TV on the making of the classic film The Red Shoes. Seeing Sir Robert Helpmann in the documentary was superb. It was made the year I was born. This classic British film about a ballet dancer, written, directed and produced by the team of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, known collectively as The Archers. The movie is wonderful to watch over and over and employs the story within a story device, and is about a young ballerina who joins an established ballet company and becomes the lead dancer is a new ballet company called, The Red Shoes, itself based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Anderson. It’s a beautiful classic story. I remember my mother loving it and she made sure as I grew up that I saw the film over and over. So it is with this in mind that I always feel so proud of Sir Robert Helpmann whenever the Helpmann Awards come around. The 14th Annual Helpmann Awards will be held on Monday, August 18 at the Capitol Theatre, Sydney. Foxtel will continue their broadcast partnership so for those of us who love watching these events as I do at home can watch it all unfold on the telly. Live Performance Australia will produce this premier award event acknowledging Australia’s vibrant live entertainment and performing arts industry. They celebrate the significant contribution the sector makes to the greater Australian community and recognise distinguished artistic achievement and excellence across the major disciplines of Australia's live performance industry, including musical theatre, contemporary music, comedy, cabaret, opera, classical music, theatre, dance and physical theatre. The impressive Chief Executive, Evelyn Richardson, said: “The Helpmann Awards are the pinnacle ‘night of nights’ event for our industry, recognising the very best in live performances that annually attract over 16.2 million people to shows across the country with revenues topping $1.2 billion.” And spare a thought for Sir Robert Helpmann on the night, he contributed enormously to film and grab a copy of The Red Shoes like I did, I cherish my copy. The NSW Government, through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, is LPA’s Strategic Partner for the 2014 Helpmann Awards. For more info visit www.helpmannawards.com.au
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - Page 11
Confidential Melbourne
Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless
Greybeard Hinch takes to the skies after jail release
Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets
Perry White ♥ Pierre White
● Marco Pierre White ■ One Melbourne wordsmith thinks MasterChef player Marco Pierre White is quite a dish. Pierre White, back in Australia to participate in the ratings-challenged Ten Network series,is porbably a re-heated pie-in-the-sky for the scribe who thinks the food judge just takes the cake. The penciller acquired a taste for the Brit-born restaurateur, and went beyond her columnar remit in 2012, continuing to swap text messages when MPW returned overseas to other arms. Thrice-married Marco, 52, had bigger fish to fry: he has been in his own stew with divorce proceedings in an off-again, on-again, off-again marriage with former barmaid Matilde ‘Mati’ Conejero. White upsets the apple cart: he is an ardent supporter of the Conservative Party. His admirer is not. ■ Meanwhile, in Manhattan, 3AW news hound Donna Demaio was walking down 14th Street and offered a cheery “hello” to a passer-by ... actress Susan Sarandon (pictured) replied with a surprise “Welcome to New York.”
■ Broadcaster Derryn Hinch, complete with greybeard stubble that will soon miraculously turn black, is keeping busy following his release from Langi Kal Kal Prison. Hinch was given a surprise skydiving present for his 70th birthday, and continues his work on a mission for Australia to introduce a national convicted sex offender register. Despite 90,000 other people signing the document, Hinch insists on repeatedly calling it “my petition”. Hinch has been busy corresponding with people who sent him gifts during his 50-day jail sentence when he failed to pay a $100,000 penalty imposed by Mr Justice Kaye. One fan wrote: “My name is Taia. I am 9 years old ... I wanted you to no (sic) that you are my hero, I follow lots of stuff about you on the news and radio. I think that what you are doing for kids in the hole (sic) of Australia is great.” Taia sent a picture and some puzzle books to Hinch while he was in prison. Taia is still looking for a reply. Hinch replied on Facebook: “Thank you so much for your note.
a “photographer, producer, investigator and journalist”. Natasha says she has been a freelance writer at ACP Magazines, an Assistant Producer of the Sunday Night program at the Seven Network, an intern at The Mosman Daily ... and as a Detective Sergeant in the NSW Police Force for 12½years. Chadwick, 34, says her personality is “vibrant and fun”.
● Derryn Hinch: skydiving And for the puzzle books and cards in jail. I did get them and sent you a Thank You letter but the mail delivery gets a bit patchy from in there. The skydiving was awesome. You stay in touch. My personal email is hinch@hinch.net” Press reports say Hinch is holding hands with Natasha Chadwick, who lists herself on Linked In as
Hillel hits right note
Greek group sues
● Donna Demaio with Susan Sarandon
● Muriel Cooper ■ Former Melbourne broadcaster Muriel Cooper is just back from a holdiay visit to Vietnam, where she attended the Lantern Festival. Electricity and light is banned. Muriel, who graced the 3AW microphone, suggests that our city could have a ‘Dark Night’ for the full moon ... as well as its now famous 'White Night’.
It’s Bert
Rumour Mill
Rosenberg at 3AW
■ The Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh has requested a Ringwood Magistrates’ Court Registrars’ Hearing today (Wed.) to allege a civil action for “debt” against Helen Prokoplou. The hearing is scheduled from 11am.
Dark side
● Natasha Chadwick
Hear It Here First
● Hillel Benedykt ■ “A shy musician direct from Israel” was how Hillel Benedykt was introduced at a ‘Kiddush’ buffet at the Royal Freemasons Homes in Windsor on Friday. Benedykt, a normally conservative information technology executive in Melbourne, donned the piano accordion at the Coppin Hall celebration, following his installation as Grand Master of Freemasons Victoria. Benedykt, 58, is only the second Jewish leader of the Victorian fraternity in its 125 years. Henry Nathan was “in the chair” in 1982.
Whispers
■ The abrupt departure of 3AW Advertising Sales Manager, Sue Chapman, has created an opportunity for FairfaxMetro Media executive Mark Rosenberg to become the radio station’s Agency Account Manager. Rosenberg started with the ACE Radio Network in 1990, and has also worked with Aus- ● Sue Chapman tereo, Southern Cross, 1116 SEN (Pacific Star Network), Australian Radio Network and Macquarie Radio Network. He has been recently selling space in the real estate publications assembled by Fairfax affiliate, Metro Media Publishing.
Municipal muttering ■ Which Melbourne municipal exceutive is openly criticising her work duties and colleagues, with derogatory snorts on social media? Her erratic behaviour may soon be ruled out of order.
E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au
● Bert Newton ■ Whispers hears that there is more than a few legal obstacles for producers wanting to put together a pay-TV ‘mini-series’ on the life and times of veteran entertainer Bert Newton.
Needy Money ■ Needy Money Pty Ltd has asked for a Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court Registrars’ Hearing tomorrow (Thu.) where it is scheduled to allege a “breach of contract/ agreement (nonpayment” claim against John Risrevski.
Rocky ■ Which Melbourne star is upset they weren’t included on the Rocky Horror Show opening night list?
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Melbourne
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Ash On Wednesday
■ The Fair Work Ombudsman has secured penalties for breaches of workplace laws at a Melbourne bakery with a history of underpaying its employees. Mark Siciliano, who was formerly the manager and part-owner of Universal Bread and Roll Bakery at Tullamarine, has been fined $60,000 by the Federal Circuit Court in Melbourne. Siciliano, of Lower Templestowe, was penalised for his involvement in underpaying and threatening to dismiss a female clerical assistant at the bakery. Judge Grant Riethmuller ordered the penalty be paid within 60 days and that part be paid to the employee to rectify $2358 in superannuation funds owed to her.
● Universal Bakery at Tullamarine
Long Shots
Kamahl
■ The Morrison House training organisation at Mount Evelyn has sustained a loss of more than $1 million. CEO Jan Simmons has resigned to take on a new job in country Victoria. Morrison House will close permanently.
Ourselves ■ There are only the April 2, 9 and 16 editions of the Melbourne Observer before Easter. This year we will miss two editions (April 23 and 30) to allow our team to take an early mid-year break over the Easter and ANZAC weekends.
Grease is the word ■ Remember the bad review that the Herald Sun gave Grease when it opened at Her Majesty’s Theatre in January? Long Shots’ spy says ticket sales have been at 95 per cent of theatre capacity for the 12-week season. That says it all.
Safe seat ■ Liberal State Minister Mary Wooldridge looks set to be gifted the safe Eastern Metropolitan Region seat ... whilst incumbent Jan Kronberg will lose the seat, but win a $70,000 “re-settlement” allowance.
with K enneth Mulholland Kenneth
Hi-jinx in Hawthorn
■ Entertainer Kamahl will appear at Wellers, Kangaroo Ground, on Thursday, April 10. Colleen Hewett will perform at Wellers on Thursday next week (April 3).
$1m loss
Melbourne TV Memories
editor@melbourneobserver.com.au
with Ash Long “For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”
Observer Treasury Thought For The Week ■ “There are no shortcuts in life. Everything done right is done the hard way.” ■ “The surest sign that intelligent life exists elsewhere in the universe is that it has never tried to contact us.” - Bill Watterson
Observer Curmudgeon ■ “Man will occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of the time he will pick himself up and continue on.” - Winston Churchill ■ “It's not getting any smarter out there. You have to come to terms with stupidity, and make it work for you.” - Frank Zappa
Text For The Week ■ “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. - Isaiah 41:10 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.
■ Getting married. On January 10, 1970, Maria and I had a date to meet at a little church in Hawthorn. After falling apart at the Crawford/Haw/Meillon abode at Stonington Place, and later that same evening, on the doorstep of Maria's bed-sit, I had pulled myself together. At least I could drive without the tears totally blurring my vision. “What? Why?’ you may be asking. “This was a very special moment in your life. A happy time. You're getting married. You love the lady. Oh sentimental boo-boo. Get over it and enjoy'” You maybe answering. Sentimental ... let's just leave out the 'Senti' bit. There, now all we have, is the 'Mental.' I'm standing in that same Stonington Place flat on my wedding morning, looking completely ... yup! Just looking completely ... Shattered. Frightened. Stunned. Impotent. Whatever, Bob did his best to calm me by dousing me with copious drafts of confident advice and nips of J.Walker. Jack Degenkamp dropped by (much to my shame for not inviting him to the wedding) and departed quietly. The wedding itself was sensational. Mainly because it was a total disaster. The only thing missing was Barry Cross (who had also not been invited). On the appointed day the temperature rolled up above the 100 degree F. About what we now count around 38 C-40 C. My memory-register is 'Stinking Hot.' So that's the good bit. The bad bit, of the beginning of all the bad bits that spawned all the other really, excruciatingly bad, and badder bits, was begun thus: Jan, my sister. “Mum's been bitten by Corey.” Corey was the family Pembroke Corgi. A rather stroppy pooch at the best of times, but sadly, his timing was out. Any other time would have been fine. Of course, by the time I had waited, with Bob Meillon at my side, the few minutes for Maria to arrive at the tiny church in Glenferrie Rd, driven up in one of a pair of red Morris 1100 cars, the dog bite was indeed biting. Even as Robert was dutifully pointing out to dear old Mr Hunt (former Rev. Hunt) that I was not Maria's lawful wedded wife and also where we all should sign the marriage certificate, including Mr Hunt, mother's wrist, followed swiftly by her arm, was swelling into something that began to look like a part of the Michelin Man. The ceremony over, (I remembered my lines perfectly, 'I do.') the whole conclave repaired to our palatial venue at Maria’s, and now my, two-room bed sit above a carpet shop in Burwood Rd. In the glow of that furnace-like afternoon sun, which was frying all of Hawthorn, we began the celebrations. Maria served food, many others helped themselves to the grog and I simply changed into my 'going-away' gear by shucking off my wedding suit and togging up in T-shirt and shorts. Thereby, some of our wedding pics, allow a touch of decorum, whilst the rest give the impression that I, at least, was on some kind of beach-bum picnic. That celebratory splurge was not to last long My kamikaze mother was almost becoming airborne, such was the explosion of her arm. It was clear that 'Corey' had done his toothy best, and had left his business card as well. As the two-room bed-sit swayed with the weight of humanity, alcohol, chips and dips, I, (being the numb-skull imbecile that, to this day, I probably still am) decided that Mother should be shunted off to a hospital before she succumbed to rabies or whatever. The numb-skull part of me dictated that I should shoulder that responsibility and drive her there. Maria devotedly pledged to come too, looking sideways at her mother and mouthing imprecations. So did my Auntie Lorna, mother's sister, and her daughter. The last thing our wedding guests saw of us was our backs disappearing downstairs, desperately holding a woman whose arm repeatedly threatened to break free and reach for the sky. The rest of the evening was spent waiting for someone to attend Mother at St Vincent's Hospital. Turn To Page 17
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - Page 13
Melbourne People
Ben Angel Book Launch ‘Flee 9-5’, already a top seller At The Pier, Port Melbourne
Melbourne’s Ben Angel launches book ■ Mebourne author Ben Angel has launched his self-help book, Flee 9-5, at The Pier, Port Melbourne. The book explains how to escape the rat race, ditch nine-to-five and do something that inspires and enriches you. You can make 6-7 figures by becoming an ‘Agent of Influence,’ says Ben Angel. Flee 9-5 was born out of trip Ben took to New York in 2012 that saw him come face-toface with Hurricane Sandy. He says, “I was stuck in a natural disaster on the half of Manhattan that was plunged into darkness. It almost wiped out my business back home in Australia. The business was too reliant on me. I had to reinvent it within a matter of days before the hurricane hit and I went off the grid.” Ben defines Agents of Influence as everyday individuals and entrepreneurs who are sick of making peanuts by sharing their knowledge and expertise with their employers who make millions from it. Ben says famous Agents of Influence include the likes of Anthony Robbins, Tim Ferris and Bethenny Frankel. Ben is Australia's top personal branding and influence specialist with an international following of 35,000, however just one year ago he was working 12-hour days and helping others make millions. “I was part of the ‘living dead’ working long hours, feeling numb and not being rewarded for it.” He says, getting stuck overseas forced him to rethink his life so he had more freedom and income.
● Ben Angel with Carmen Fraser King
● Will Donoghue and Mat Williams
● Kon Iatrou and Tracie Pascoe
● Stuart Taylor with Tania Ivosevich
● Tara and Lenny Hayes
Kon Iatrou andKing Tracie Fraser withPascoe Di Rolle ●●Carmen
● Ben Angel with Andrea Moss, MC, from Real Housewives of Melbourne
Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Melbourne People
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Freemasons Victoria Grand Installation Dallas Brooks Centre, East Melbourne
● Freemasons Victoria’s newly installed Grand Master Hillel Benedykt (centre) flanked by Past Grand Masters Henry Nathan and Bob Jones
● Newly installed Grand Master Hillel Benedykt with wife Sue Benedykt
● Some of the pomp and ceremony from the Grand Installation
● Freemasons and non-Freemasons joined Hillel Benedykt for the Shabbat Service in the Melbourne Hebrew Congregation in South Yarra.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne
Observer
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - Page 15
West Hollywood
All the President’s men From my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.
Nobu continues to expand
Heavyweights of North Melbourne Football Club ■ When the President’s Men get together and celebrate the President’s birthday, it becomes a media event. Dr Allen Aylett celebrated becoming an octogenarian and fellow members of that club, former Chairman Lloyd Holyoak and former captain,Albert Mantello introduced sexagenarian, former director, Alan Johnson, into the special group. The stories that would have been told that night would be enough to curl anyone's ear. The memorable stories of Arden St and the biffs and the marks ... I am guessing the stories would have gone long into the night at the North Melbourne Football Club. Congratulations on a stellar career on and off the field, Gentleman.
Peanuts fly from the screen: Et tu, Charlie Brown?
● Former North Melbourne Football Club chairman Lloyd Holyoak with Mr President Dr Allen Aylett, former director Alan Johnson and former captain Albert Mantello.
● Nobu Matsuhisa ■ If you are a fan of chef Nobu Matsuhisa and his worldrenowned Nobu restaurants with one in Crown Casino in Melbourne, and also on La Cienega Boulevard around the corner from the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, you are in luck. He and his partners (actor Robert De Niro and Hollywood producer Meir Teper) have opened the first Nobu Hotel inside Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. There are 181 lovely guestrooms and suites accessed via a striking lobby, which was built from hand carved blocks of wood. This gives a hint of the playful yet natural ambiance in store during your stay, which will begin with a welcome hot tea service and feature a turndown service with exclusive pillow and bath menus as well as Nobu, scented sleep oils to enhance your experience not to mention the world-class dining that awaits you.
Live at ‘The Greek’
■ Everything else is going 3-D and CG. Why not Lucy, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang? That's the hope behind Blue Sky and Fox's 2015 Peanuts reboot, unveiled in a teaser this week in Hollywood. With Ice Age: Continental Drift director Steve Martino at the helm, the forthcoming film will use 21st century technologies to brink back Peanuts in the time for the Christmas holidays next year. How does a CG-ified Charlie Brown look? Slick and a little strange. Charles Schultz's son Craig is involved in the film, but those who remember the sly, sweet, hand drawn 1960's animated specials may be taken aback when they see their beloved characters so digital and crystalline, minus the minimalist, rough-around-the-edges look that was favoured for decades. The film is set to hit theatres late November 2015.
Welcome to Beverly Hills ■ Celebrated everywhere as a destination offering the finest hotels, shopping, dining and pampering, no city caters to its guests more than Beverly Hills. Experience it for yourself and discover why Beverly Hills continues to be the ultimate playground for those who appreciate and enjoy the best of everything. Because of its compact size, Beverly Hills is incredibly easy to navigate and easy to traverse on foot. You can explore the city using one of the self-guided walking tours or even consider a more unconventional Segway tour for a bit of fun and excitement. Hop on the Beverly Hills Trolley for a delightful 40-minute narrated tour, showcasing extraordinary art, architecture and historically significant buildings or join others on one of the many local bus tours offering their spin on the sights and personalities in Beverly Hills. When it's time to unwind, indulge in any number of ultraluxurious facial or body treatments at some of the stand alone boutique spas or transform yourself with a once in a lifetime makeover at one of the world renown salons. The best shopping, The best restaurants and the best hotels await you in Beverly Hills. After all that pampering it will be very hard to get to LAX and fly back to Australia.
GavinWood
From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd
Walt Disney would be happy
● Walt Disney ■ At the annual meeting of shareholders in the Walt Disney Company based in Burbank, CEO Robert Iger revealed sequels to The Incredibles and Cars. Iger also discussed some of forthcoming movie and theme park plans. Disney's Pixar Animation Studios plans to make a sequel to the 2004 hit The Incredibles and a third film in the popular Cars franchise. The company's Walt Disney Animation Studios is riding high with Frozen which is on track to becoming the biggest grossing animated film in history. The film has taken in more than $1 billion and is still playing in theatres four months after its release. Iger also discussed Disney's upcoming Star Wars film, which is slated for release December 2015. He said the movie, Star Wars: Episode VII, would take place 30 years after Return Of The Jedi and will feature some very familiar faces along with a trio of new young leads. Disney acquired Lucas Film, the production company behind the Star Wars franchise in 2012 for $4 billion. The Pirates Of The Caribbean franchise is going into a theme park in the Shanghai Disney Resort worth more than $4 billion and is slated to open December 31, 2015.
www.gavinwood.us
● Sarah McLachlan ■ The legendary Greek Theatre has announced its concert series and some great shows to see: ■ May 24. War with Cheech and Chong and special guest The Family Stone.. ■ May 30. Rodriguez. ■ June 28. An evening with Sarah McLachlan ■ July 3. Joan Baez and Indigo Girls ■ July 18. Pat Metheny Unity Group with Bruce Horsnby. ■ July 19. Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band ■ July 22.Goo Goo Dolls Daughtry and special guests Plain White T’s. ■ July 26. Foreigner, Styx and former Eagles guitarist Don Felder. ■ August 1. Chicago and Reo Speed Wagon. ■ August 7. Michael McDonald and Toto. ■ August 13. ZZ Top and Jeff Becker Entertainment. ■ August 16. An Evening with Smokey Robinson. ■ August 29. Thompson Twins, Tom Bailey, Howard Jones, Ultravox’s Midge Ure and China Crisis. ■ October 4. An Evening with Crosby, Stills and Nash. Now that's what a call a busy couple of months at the Greek Theatre, 2700 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles. www.greektheatrela.com
Special Holiday Offer
■ I have managed to secure a terrific holiday deal for all readers of the Melbourne Observer. When planning your trip to Los Angeles, come and stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard. West Hollywood. Please mention 'Melbourne Observer' when you book and you will receive the Special Rate Of The Day. Please contact: Joanna at info@ramadaweho.com I can't wait to see you at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites. Happy Holidays, Gavin Wood.
Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Melbourne
Observer
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Travellers’Good Buys
with David Ellis
All for the love of a slave girl ■ Be they fact or fancy, countless seem the tales of romance that live on to be told over and again orally, in print, or on screens both large and small. The 12th century’s teacher-philosopher Abelard and his beautiful student Eloise, Shakespeare’s fanciful Romeo and Juliet, real life’s Mark Antony and Cleopatra, legendary Lancelot and Guinevere… these make up but a miniscule snapshot of the romances of fame. And if ever there’s another worthy of being up there with the immortals, it’s from 17th century Africa, and is a tale little known about outside its homeland – a tale of extraordinary love between a white German soldier and a black slave-girl. Soldier Laurens Campher was stationed at the Dutch East India Company’s Cape Town fortress known as the Castle, and one day caught sight of an attractive female slave working in the Company vegetable gardens. She had been born in the Castle to a slave, and like all others who came into the world there, had been given only one name – in her case Ansela – with the automatic “surname” Van de Caab given all Castle-born slaves, and meaning “of the Cape.” For the soldier and the slave-girl it was instant love, and soon they were meeting secretly at night in the
● Inside today’s Tasting Room at Muratie Estate Wines
Melbourne
Observer Wines & Liqueurs
with David Ellis
At $200, best of the Best’s ■ It’s not every day we’ve the chance to enjoy a $200 wine, but just such an opportunity came our way a couple of weeks back when we shared a bottle of 2012 Best’s Thomson Family Shiraz from Best’s Wines at Great Western, in the Grampians north-west of Melbourne. And what a WOW factor it turned out to have: made from fruit hand-harvested off just fifteen rows of some of the oldest, most-gnarled Shiraz vines in Australia, having been planted by Henry Best a-near 150 years ago in 1867, it has an almost explosive bouquet of dark fruits, bitter chocolate, dried flowers and intense white pepper. Savour these with a swirl of the glass, and then be wonderfully seduced on the palate with mouth-filling, yet quite mellow, fragrant dark fruit flavours, and delightful tannins… just perfect with roast suckling pig on a spit, fresh garden veggies and a rich gravy. The Thomson family who bought the winery from Henry Best in 1920 are now “fifth generation custodians” of Best’s vineyards and made the first Best’s Thomson Family Shiraz in 1992 to celebrate 100 years of the Thomson’s settling in Best Western; they’ve made just 12since from a dozen particularly outstanding quality vintages. A very special wine for a very special occasion, the more so with 5-20 years cellaring.
One to note ■ If you’ve carpaccio of Tasmanian salmon on the menu as a starter for that next dinner party, a great drop to offer it with is a Bay of Fires Tasmanian Cuvee Rosé – particularly as it’s from the salmon’s home State and priced so nicely at $29.99. Made from highest-quality fruit sourced from across Tasmania’s four major viticultural regions, this is a great cool climate bubbly with loads of red berry fruit flavours, earthy mushrooms and crisp acidity; the creamy mouth-feel making it ideal with that carpaccio of Tasmanian salmon, that winemakers Ed Carr and Peter Dredge suggest be best served with a white wine vinaigrette, capers and chervil.
Pictured ■ Worthy of the Best name and created for that very special occasion. ■ Tassie beauty that’s ideal with carpaccio of Tasmanian salmon with a white wine vinaigrette, capers and chervil.
Castle’s squalid slave quarters. But despite his love, Laurens Campher longed to be a farmer not a soldier, and in 1685 convinced authorities to grant him a farming block at the foot of the fertile Simonsberg Mountain – a long 64km away. Unable to simply forget Ansela, Campher repeatedly sought permission to marry her, but was constantly rebuffed with the withering official excuse that she was “a heathen slave.” But rather than give up on his love, the extraordinary Laurens regularly trekked the 64km from his farm back to the Castle to spend time with Ansela, an arduous 3-day return walk he undertook monthly – sometimes more – for fourteen long years, fathering three children, Cornelius, Agenetjie and Jacoba to her in that time. And bizarrely in 1695 an influential, church-going white woman in Cape Town heard the gossip of the soldier and the slave-girl, bought Ansela from the Castle for her own household… and helped orchestrate her baptism into the Lutheran Church, which meant that as a now-Christian she could be freed as a slave and thus able to marry Laurens. The wedding took place in June of 1699, Laurens delightedly making his last 64km trek back to the farm – that he’d called De Driesprong – with his wife and children, now aged 9, 5 and three. Laurens had himself already built them a simple yet sizable stone home, and next to this Ansela planted an oak tree on her arrival to bless their marriage – that oak and the old house still standing there to this day. The Campher family was the first to plant wine grapes in the Stellenbosch area, and after Laurens died in 1729 Ansela and their son Cornelius continued to run the farm for five more years, producing some 600 litres of wine a year and other produce, before finally selling out. In the 1760s a Martin Melck bought the farm for his daughter, Anna Catharina (Beyers) and it remained in the Melck-Beyers family for over a century, after which it had several owners including for a short time from 1909 the colourful society hostess Lady Alice Sarah Stanford to whom every event was reason enough for a party – and therefore putting Lauren’s vineyards and winery to exceptionally good use. Eventually the farm was given-up on and fell into disrepair, until artist George Paul Canitz and his wife, while horse-riding in 1926, took a wrong turn and found themselves confronting the old farm’s tragic-looking manor house. Canitz pictured it not as a ruin but as something of tranquillity, and bought and re-named it Muratie from the Dutch murasie meaning “ruin.” The family lived there for 32 years – daughter Annemarie ultimately inheriting it and becoming one of the firstever female vineyard owners in South Africa. And remarkably in 1987 the wheel turned an amazing 360-degrees with Muratie going back into the hands of the Melck family some 150 years after they’d walked-off it – and with the most extraordinary results.
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - Page 17
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne
Observer
Melbourne TV Memories
Wedding night blues ● From Page 12 ■ By the time we returned, after sundry tetanus jabs, the bed-sit was almost empty: only Dad, Bob, Jeff and Sue White and a couple of others remained. Their combined cash had kept the party going, but even that ran out by midnight. Thus ended the Hootenanny. Maria and I honeymooned at Crib Point. Maria thought it sounded better to say 'Western Port Bay'. That, at least, was a zephyr of tranquillity. Of course, to this day I wonder what she must have been thinking: married to a guy who had managed to strand her far from Melbourne, deep in the mountains through two days and nights, on their second date.
Next week: At Channel 0, on the floor at Happening 70 A guy who had fallen apart a few nights before on her doorstep. And then, a guy who had driven her and various relations to spend a cheery night in a big city hospital reception area, his mother on a trolley with an arm resembling the Graf Zeppelin. At the end of the night (as opposed to the cliche 'day') Maria, no longer a lovely bride, but now a stunned (still lovely) wife, faced the future with a
rattle-headed imbecile who had as much direction as a weather vane and as much consideration as a gold fish. Nine days after this debacle, whilst we disported ourselves at Crib ... Western Port Bay, a concept, piloted in absolute secrecy, November 1969, in the cavernous, empty hole of Studio B at ATV-0 went into production. (Absolute secrecy, except for 'Veritas' of TV Week who was tipped off no doubt, and broke the story.) In any event, into this cold, brick dungeon, (which was to be the later home of Matlock Police, The Box, Prisoner and Neighbours) devoid of every facility, with the exception of a cold water tap, an outside film unit insinuated itself. So began shooting on the series The Long Arm. - Kenneth Mulholland
Rockin’ the Reserve ■ Mulgrave Reserve this Saturday (Mar. 29) will be turned from a weekly sporting hub into a hive of food, wine and music. The member clubs of this sporting precinct have banded together to offer the community a day of sensational music accompanied by fine wines, boutique beers, and gourmet treats. All proceeds raised by Rockin’ The Reserve will go to the sporting clubs who call Mulgrave Reserve home: namely Mulgrave Football Club, Glen Waverley Rovers Junior Football Club, Eastern Devils Football Club and Mulgrave Cricket Club. There will be a range of food and drink options/. Local restaurants will provide culinary delights while the Rovers barbecue will be in full swing. A number of top wineries and
boutique breweries will be on hand to offer you a fine drop and quench your thirst. Gates open at 2pm. 3pm – Russell Robertson and Phil Ceberano 4pm – Kate Ceberano 5pm – Russell Robertson and Phil Ceberano 6pm – Chantoozies 7pm – James Reyne 10pm – Gates Close You will not be able to enter the festival site with eskys, umbrellas, glass, hampers, pets, drugs or alcohol and that bags and prams will be searched at the entrance. You are welcome, however, to bring a chair or picnic rug to relax on. If you’re under 18 you’ll also need to bring an adult as you’ll need to be accompanied by one due to liquor licensing requirements. www.rockinthereserve.com
Melbourne
Observer Life & Style
High anxiety on the Westgate Bridge ■ Driving a car on any day of the week without a pre determined destination sends me up the wall. Last week, Rob Richardson invited me to be a guest on his radio program at 88.9 FM. He did mention, as an aside, that the studio was in Werribee, but he would e-mail me a map. As I had a few weeks before the date for my appearance, I dismissed it from my mind until a couple of days prior to setting off.
Yvonne’s Column
Professionalism
Scare tactics ■ The map arrived, and it was then that I realized that I would have to go over the Westgate Bridge. Having been over this bridge in peak traffic on my way to visit a country prison while wearing my other hat, I was introduced to the scare tactics used by huge trucks passing at great speed only inches from the side window. Sometimes there was one of these monsters on either side of my car. And just to finish things off completely I was supplied with a driver suffering from a lead foot that I think was imagining she was competing in the Grand Prix. I swore to myself that I would never ever attempt to use the bridge again. I would rather walk to my destination.
Without the map ■ Having discussed the destination with my ‘man of the house ‘ (MOTH) he told me to stop having a nervous breakdown because he knew another way to get to Werribee. “Are you sure?” I asked him, because at that stage my computer refused to obey any instructions and I couldn’t download the map. My mother used to joke and tell me to never trust a man who says ‘Trust me’ I however, trusted the MOTH implicitly, he’d never steered me wrong, and promptly forgot any phobia I had of the bridge. I was up early, booted and caped ready for an adventure. We set out, fingers crossed without benefit of Rob’s map, leaving us plenty of time to get to our destination. There is nothing worse than a guest being late for an interview – I know from experience. That’s when the stress started.
Scorched earth ■ Every unlicensed driver, learner driver, and bad driver was out on the road. And I didn’t recognise any landmark to give me confidence that MOTH really did know where he was going. Why was there so much traffic so early? And
It didn’t belch out a ticket, so Peter fed it another four dollars. I can’t imagine what it must be like in the winter with the wind blowing a gale across those Western plains.
with Yvonne Lawrence yvonne.lawrence@bigpond.com
■ Rob had scheduled an interesting program. It was great to talk to a favourite adventurer and friend Nick Le Souef , aka the Outback Legend and Opal King. I couldn’t help whilst sitting in the 88.9 studio but muse why management at 94.1 FM hadn’t been astute or indeed cared enough to have an enthusiastic broadcaster like Rob to increase dwindling ratings. Rob had been an occasional contributor to my programon 3AW, and had co-compered with me on 94.1FM. Some in authority on that station spoke with all the authority of the truly ignorant when it came to broadcasting protocol. After letting Rob go, he was sent a letter of appeal for funds. I was also on their hit list begging for funds. Whoever wrote the letter didn’t even have the courtesy to address us by name. They would have been better to have employed a publicist or at best a marketing person to show them how it is done. Rob showed professionalism and enthusiasm and the time just flew. Congratulations Rob.
why were there so many roads under construction and repair? Trying not to aggravate the situation by asking him if he really knew where he was going, we traveled on. Suddenly any sign of a house disappeared, and all we could see for miles around were plains of scorched brown turf with not a patch of green to be seen. Usually in country paddocks you will see stately Scotch Thistles dotted all over the fields, standing proudly erect, with their thorns exposed and large purple flowers swaying in the wind. It was so scary because the thistles were crowding against the fences, and instead of ■ By then it was time to leave, and find our majestic purple flowers, the tops had been way back home. It’s funny, but it seems that it always takes scorched white by the fierce summer sun, as if much less time to get home than it does to get to the thistles had reached old age. a new destination. I was looking for a roadhouse for a cup of tea. Even a McDonalds would have been great. ■ By now, the MOTH and I had had a small But nothing except scorched plains and Triffid domestic, and my thoughts turned to Moosh my like Scotch thistles turned white trying to escape. cat that I may never see us again. Fortunately, my eyes were shut, so I missed The traffic was still bad, and I wondered the sign that said Westgate Bridge. where every car was headed. We had entered into a crocodile of cars, There didn’t seem any sign of life where we trucks, learner drivers and motorbike riders who were headed. Finally Peter came to a roundabout and turned were practising how to shorten their lives by right. I of course in true Mrs Bouquet style weaving in and out of the heavy traffic at breaksaid, “turn Left”. He didn’t obey orders as Ri- neck speed. It was a nightmare. chard does, but forged ahead and soon the University Hospital came into view and I knew that we were indeed in the vicinity. There was not a soul to be seen. We found the studio and Rob came out and ■ The tunnel was almost as frightening, but handed Peter three dollars for parking in the we sailed through without mishap, and we reached Burke Rd and I was desperate for a paddock.
Crocodile line
Blowing a gale
‘Nervous Nellie’
● Rob Richardson cup of coffee, or a drink of anything. We parked curbside right in front of a restaurant called ‘Short Black’ and almost fell in the door. Everything looked so inviting and the staff so obliging that we ordered something to eat and drink, and chatted with the owner. It was such a pleasant way for me to recuperate. And I loved the name chosen for the restaurant. It’s taken me a while to recuperate from my stressful drive. I forget that I used to drive in traffic and not turn a hair, but since my accident, I’ve become a ‘Nervous Nellie’ of a passenger.
Hint for next time
■ Sometimes I lament not having my car, especially when my sister phones me and tells me how much she is enjoying driving my Honda. She needed a new car, and the MOTH tells me it was a sisterly act of love to give her my car. He truly is one of those nice and gentle Pisces. Next time Rob, I’ll do a phone-in and save myself the stress of traffic. - Yvonne Contact: Editor, Melbourne Observer P.O. Box 1278, Research, 3095.
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Page 18 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014
■ I feel that the great stars of the Australian stage during the 20th Century are being forgotten by the modern generation. It is a great pity that we do not celebrate the lives of some of our performers. I had the opportunity to see Jenny Howard in one show and it made a great impression on me. Daisy Evelyn Louise Blowes was born in the London suburb Walthamstow in 1902. Jenny started her career in music hall shows in London and became a singer and comedienne. She appeared onstage with Percy King who became her husband and manager. In 1929 Jenny and Percy came to Australia to perform on the Tivoli circuit. Jenny was cast as the romantic lead in the 1936 film Dodging The Dole which was produced by Highbury Studios in London. Jenny and Percy returned to Australia to entertain the troops in 1940 and the couple took up permanent residence at Bondi. She was billed as "Australia's favourite English entertainer". Her first show was Dixie Rose, Honest John Gilbert and Connie Chalmers in Fun's A'Buzzin. Percy and Jenny toured Australia in shows during the war years. Jenny was a regular on many radio variety programs. On May 27, 1941, Jenny Howard stopped The Crazy Show and walked onstage to announce to the Tivoli audience that the German battleship Bismarck had been sunk.
Whatever Happened To ... Jenny Howard By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM There was thunderous applause for three minutes then Jenny led the audience and the company in singing Sons Of The Sea. Jenny worked in comedy routines with George Wallace on the Tivoli shows. At a matinee in 1942 George Wallace sat down in his dressing room and wrote the famous song A Brown Slouch Hat: Jenny sang it for the first time at the evening performance. Jenny played the Principal Boy in many Tivoli pantomimes such as Babes In The Woods, Robin Hood and Peter Pan. She was often labelled "the poor man's Gracie Fields" because every time Gracie released a record Jenny would follow up with her recording on the cheaper Woolworths label.
● Jenny Howard Percy King produced Christmas pantomimes and in the early 1950s Jenny starred in Aladdin And His Wonderful Lamp, Dick Whittington and His Cat and Jack And The Beanstalk at the Princess Theatre.
In 1954 Jenny headed up a tour to Korea to entertain the Australian troops. Her husband Percy was on the tour and also comedian Joey Porter. In 1974 Jenny played the role of Berthe in the stage musical Pippin and worked opposite Johnny Farnham and Colleen Hewett and I had the pleasure of seeing her onstage. She sings No Time At All on the Australian cast album. Jenny played a small role in the film Caddie in 1976. She worked at Orton's Music Hall in Surfers Paradise singing songs like Nobody Loves A Fairy When She's 40. The compere was the late Paul Sharratt and it was the basis of a popular television series. Jenny Howard passed away at Tweed Heads in New South Wales in 1996 at the age of 94. This lady brought great joy and laughter to many people during her career. I would like to see more photographs of our stage legends in public places, they should not be forgotten. Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce & PhilSundays at 8.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12Noon 96.5FM is streaming on the internet. To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and follow the prompts.
Mysteries abound in the Outback bush
■ Whatever the final outcome of the Malaysian mystery - it may be solved tomorrow, it may have been last week, or it may never be - this puts me in mind of a mate of mine, Greg, a bushman from Alice Springs. He once managed the Ross River Homestead, east of Alice Springs, now owned by the Grollos. I loved to visit Greg, and often trot-
ted the 80 kms out to share a drink or two with him, and often there was the necessity to bed down for the night in one of his cabins. I've always been fascinated by mysteries, whether it's the Bermuda Triangle, of which there is beginning to be talk of with the Malaysian situation, or other paranormal phenomena. I once began a conversation about
Minor Observations Tattoo show
Live and local
■ Rites of Passage is a three-day arts and tattoo festival with a focus on tattoo history and culture to be held at the Royal Exhibition Buildings at Carlton Gardens from April 25-27.
Real story? ■ Former 3AK boss, Mal Garvan, says he is “bewildered” that his publisher has told him that his book has to be cut from 900 pages to 700 pages “to suit their technology”. Some of his social media correspondents suggest smaller type, or a book in two parts.
● Andrew McLaren ■ Andrew McLaren and Mark Petkovic have been dumped from relaying their overnight radio program interstate. The 3AW pair have resumed the 5½-hour program to being Melbourne Overnight, after two years of being a national Australia Overnight show. John Cadogan and Mike Jeffreys will present the midnight-dawn program to 2UE Sydney, 4BC Brisbane, 2CC Canberra, and other interstate regional stations, for at least the next three weeks.
Time to go ● Mal Garvan
Book function ■ Author Supriya Singh's book Globalization And Money will be promoted at a function promoted by Eltham Bookshop, Diamond Valley Oxfam and Inbooks on Wednesday, April 2 at Machan Indian Restaurant, Main Rd, Eltham. Cost: $70 includes a welcome drink, traditional Indian Thali meal, a copy of the book or a $40 voucher.
■ Bangarra Dance Theatre has announced that senior dancer Deborah Brown has decided to leave the company after 10 years.
Jazz Festival ■ The 2014 Melbourne International Jazz Festival (May 30 – June 8) is set to bring modern masters of jazz to Australia, with a program of big-name artists, straight-ahead jazz, crossovers, instrumentalists and singers, alongside the best Australian artists. www.melbournejazz.com
this stuff with Greg. "Nah - it's all bulldust!" he blurted. "Mind you…" He then proceeded to describe a litany of strange things which he had witnessed in his time in the bush. He told me about the poltergeist in the homestead, which moved crockery and cutlery around during the night. Then his observation of many strange lights flying around in the Outback night sky. And the Min-Min Light. And, finally, cattle mutilations, whereby the organs of his horses had been carefully and surgically removed - out in the middle of the bush. All nonsense, though! ■ And, in the same vein, I always ask anyone I encounter who has ever spent any time in the bush: "Have you ever seen any big black or brown cats, or striped animals, wandered around in your travels? "Why?" they often suspiciously ask. "Because this interests me a lot, and I'm trying to track them down." Once they know that I'm not going to ridicule or disbelieve them, which is the usual reaction if they tell anyone, they will open up to me. I have encountered dozens of people who have answered "yes" to me. There have usually described either a big black or brown cat to me, panther or cougar size and appearance. And some have seen Thylacines, often in Tassie, but also on the mainland. And there are a couple of really interesting creatures which have also been reported to me - a smaller Thylacine-like striped animal, with a feline, instead of the usual canine, face. A total mystery this one. And then there's the Cape York striped marsupial cat, again a complete mystery. It's often been reported, including by the famous author Ion Idriess. What are they all? Who knows, but lots of people I come across have seen them! ■ Then, even more mysteriously, there are the stories of some of my Aboriginal friends. They are convinced of the existence of a couple of wild tribes in the Centre still roaming around. My friend, the late Pit artist Danny
The Outback Legend
with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au Goodwin, told me of his encounter with some strange prints in the desert one day. They were adults' footprints, but the size of a child's. This, he told me, was indicative of the existence of a tribe of pygmy Aborigines still roaming around. I have heard this from many Aboriginal sources. Similarly, somewhere out near Tenant Creek there is a tribe of very tall, skinny Aborigines, similarly not yet discovered, according to any Aborigine one talks to. And then there are the Bungalas, the Central Australian Yowies, often seen both by Aborigines and whitefellas alike. According to my Walpiri mate Rodney Highfold, they live in caves in the desert. And, even more mysteriously, there are some human-like chaps living in old gold mines north of Alice. Except these fellows have tails. An explorer, Ernest Favenc, supposedly came across them in the 1880s, and one was supposed to have been caught and displayed on the sideshow circuit around Queensland at the time. "Dreamtime", or not?
■ St. Patrick's Day is always a celebration of revelry in Alice Springs. Ozzie and I drank at Sean's Bar, run by our mate Sean Stewart. Of course everyone drank Guinness, except me. I don't like beer, and Guinness even less, so I contented myself with Jameson's Irish Whisky. So Ozzie and I would join the throngs celebrating at Sean's. The town was always full of general tourists, and they all flocked to the Irish bar, as did droves of Irish backpackers. And of course Sean hired some of these young damsels as his bar staff. One such young lady was Colleen from County Clare, and Ozzie and I befriended her. We were always in a shout - he with his beer, and me with my whisky. Our round came to about $13 or so, but with one round she made a mistake, and poured a different drink. "Tat'll be tirteen dollars tirty tankyou!" came the delightful dulcet tones. So we immediately changed our drinking habits to tirteen tirty all night!
■ Although there are many residents of Alice Springs who don't care at all how their behaviour affects the perceptions of tourists and visitors toward the town, there are quite a few people who do, and who want to get the town back and buzzing again. So they have started a ‘Central Australian Character’ campaign. They've collected 14 Territory characters who will share their inspiring and interesting stories about living and working in the Red Centre. And they're going to tell their stories media wide - TV, radio, print, web, and social media. A new character will be featured every three weeks. A couple of the more illustrious chaps are my mates Wayne Kraft (Krafty) and Ted Egan. Krafty has run his Overlanders' Steakhouse for decades, and he's impossible to miss if one ever eats or drinks in Alice Springs - he's not a quiet ,shy retiring little violet - he's always out and about. Recently he was in Melbourne on 3AW with Ross and John, cooking up camel steaks. Then there's Ted (His Tedness until recently the NT Administrator Governor). I've often shared a bottle or two of red with him till the wee hours, listening to the voluminous tales of his NT adventures. A great idea! - Nick Le Souef ‘The Outback Legend’
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014 - Page 19
Observer Readers’ Club The Way We Were 100 years ago The Corryong Courier Thursday, March 26, 1914 Dentistry.— Mr J. A. Thwaites an nounces in another column that he is commencing practice as a dental surgeon in Corryong, and may be consulted after April 14th at Lukins' Buildings. Police Change. — Sergeant Moore has received instructions to remain at Corryong for a further three months. Mr Moore disposed of his household effects on Saturday last by auction, and the new orders only reached him at the close of the sale. The New Hall.—The official open ing of the new Corryong Athenaeum will take place on April 22nd, when a "Novel Ball" will be held. Dancers will represent the titles of novels, and trophies will be given for the best representation and for the longest list of correct titles. Show Entertainments.—The Tum= barumba Picture Company showed an interesting series of films in the Athenaeum Hall on Show Nights. The entertainments were well patronised, and the Society will net something over £10 as its share. The pro grammes were well assorted, and there was plenty of "thrill" in the star films. There was the usual comic relief, among which "Tho Winking Parson" was "well worth an eye." Tintaldra Gymkhana. — An attractive programme of sports has been prepared for the annual gymkhana at I'intaldra on Easter Mouday. Full details will be advertised next week. Mr R. Knight has secured the right of the publican's booth.
Melbourne Photo Flashback
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Birthdays
■ Thursday, March 27. Observer readers Barbara Mayers of Noble Park, and Julie Scott of Nonle Park. ■ Friday, March 28. Observer reader V. Cute of Balwyn. Happy birthday to Tony Barber (74) and Jon Vertigan (40). ■ Saturday, March 29. Di Rolle. ■ Tuesday, April 1. Observer reader Roslyn Mann of Werribee, and Brendan ● We are told this is Swantston St, looking north from Princes Bridge, circa 1895 Bartlett of Bundoora.
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Your Stars with Christina La Cross
ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 20) As the stars bring out your need for security and to make more of a base you find yourself asking for things you would usually shy away from. Luckily this doesn't scare you. It feels good. TAURUS (APR 21 - MAY 21) You can gain some really valuable insight into new faces by helping them out and assisting them with their requests today. Your life is becoming a more interesting place to be again. GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) The Moon encourages you to tell tales on friends, but just make sure you know how far is too far to go. Remember what they say about people in glass houses. Keeping secrets can earn you respect. CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) Instead of worrying about the problems in your life, why not instead try to focus on listening to the help which is being offered to you via true friends. They wouldn't offer if they didn't care. LEO (JULY 24 - AUG 23) There are more ways than you think to deal with the pressures you're currently facing. Don't be afraid to rearrange your week to suit yourself. A calmer mind will ensure you attract the right kind of help. VIRGO (AUG 24 - SEPT 23) You think you're ready to surrender, but I say you should be ready to fight Virgo. You see, there are several new influences in your life who can show you how to move upwards and onwards. LIBRA (SEPT 24 - OCT 23) A rather strange mood, the stars are placing upon you could see you asking more personal questions of close ones than are really necessary. Don't open up a Pandora's box you aren't prepared to deal with. SCORPIO (OCT 24 - NOV 22) Stop treating your life as if it's a competition. Focus on the end goal in sight and keep moving forward. Those ahead of you are unlikely to have built the lasting base you have. Bear this in mind. SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23 - DEC 21) Money is on your mind and you're trying to work out how you will be able to do everything. It's easy! Others will invest in you once you show how hard you can work this week. CAPRICORN (DEC 22 - JAN 20) It's vital that you deal with any forms as soon as they arrive. It can help you get ahead of the game this week. Use your earthy charms to support that younger person facing a major change. AQUARIUS (JAN 21 - FEB 19) You're worrying about those who aren't worried about themselves. Sometimes it pays to back off and let others learn lessons on their own. Making yourself a priority helps you formulate a new path in life. PISCES (FEB 20 - MARCH 20) It's important you allow those older than you to be granted respect. If not, you could end up losing out on something you would otherwise be found out to be right in.
Page 20 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Victoria Pictorial
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Historic Photo Collection
● Belgrave. 1907.
● Belgrave. Circa late 1940s
● Walking trails at Belgrave. Possibly 1920s
● Red Mill, Belgrave. Prior to 1970.
● Timber tramway near Belgrave. 1911.
● Hill climbing. Terry’s Hill, Belgrave. 1930s.
● The Railway Station, Belgrave.
● The main road, Belgrave