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■ Eilse Elliott and Alicia Loxley hosted the Role Models dinner held at the Sofitel Melbourne On Collins Grand Ballroom. The night raised funds for the National Institute of Integrative Medicine. More photos on Page 10. Photos: Fiona Hamilton

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WHATEVER HAPPENED TO BING CROSBY - PAGE 16

Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 - Page 3

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City Desk

Melbourne

Observer

The hottest news about Melbourne’s A-listers

The Buzz

Holidays at Convent

John’s new book

● At Abbotsford Convent

● John Bertrand ■ A new book, Born To Win: The Power Of A Vision by John Bertrand, is being released by Slattery Media Group.

The book recounts Australia II's epic victory in the 1983 America's Cup, ending a 132-year US winning streak. From the long hours at sea to the psychological warfare that went into the race, Born To Win is a classic story of the underdog triumphing over adversity.

Bing-o!

● Bing Crosby ■ Observer columnist Kevin Trask has news of the Bing Crosby Society’s next meeting at Abbotsford.

Details on Page 16.

■ Abbotsford Convent has a busy September school holiday program planned.

Children get their hands dirty with clay or keep busy making books.

Classes include: African drumming with Mohamed Camera; children's creative art space with Robyn Devries; book making with Kids’ Own Publishing; drawing and puppetry with artist Annie Edney; circus fun with Margaret Krajnc; and drawing fun found objects with artist Rick Matear.

Under The Clocks ‘One last exhibition’ for Richard

GOOD FOOD

■ Melbourne’s Attica was the big winner at Monday nnight’s prestigious awards ceremony in the Great Hall of the NGV International to celebrate the launch of The Age Good Food Guide 2014.

The Ripponlea restaurant won the night’s top award, receiving the title Restaurant of the Year, and chef Ben Shewry was named Chef of the Year.

New Restaurant of the Year went to Saint Crispin in Collingwood, which opened in late June.

Regional Restaurant of the Year was awarded to the Healesville Hotel, now in its 12th year of operation, while New Regional Restaurant of the Year went to Tani Eat & Drink in Bright.

Like last year, four restaurants received the maximum three hats. However, in the 2014 Guide, all four are in the city. Flower Drum regained three-hat status for the first time since 2006.

Last year’s only three-hatted regional restaurant, the Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld, was unscored this year because the chef announced he was leaving just as the Guide was going to press

● Richard Linton is exhibiting at Seaworks, Williamstown ■ The tall ships at Seaworks, Williamstown, have awakened martime artist Richard Linton who has been coaxed out of retirement for one last exhibition to celebrate the largest gathering of tall ships in Victoria for many years from September 6 to 13.

The Seaworks Maritime Festival exhibition is sponsored by David Cooper of Tudor Insurance.

Neil Perry’s new restaurant Rosetta scored the rare honour of entering the Guide with two hats.

The biggest trend was the bar with great food. Among the brightest exponents: Ombra, Bar Di Stasio, the Town Mouse and Cumulus Up. Flinders Lane is this year’s eating epicentre of good eating, with Smith St and Gertrude St continuing their steady climb.

Southgate Cinema will host the premiere of the short film Reflec★ tions to launch Melbourne Spring Fashion Week at 6pm on Friday (Aug. 30).

Tomorrow (Thurs., Aug. 29) sees the Opening Night of Rupert by David ★ Williamson at the Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse. Running time is approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including a 20 minute interval.

Grand illusionist Cosentino will appear at the Palais Theatre, St ★ Kilda, on Friday, November 22. Tickets go on sale on Thursday next week (Sept. 5).

Melbourne Moments ONJ Gala

In Canterbury

■ Olivia Newton-John will be joined by Australia's finest performers at the inaugural ONJ Gala on Friday, September 20, at Melbourne's Regent Plaza Ballroom to raise much needed funds for the Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre.

Celebrities confirmed to appear on the night include Deborah Hutton, David Campbell, Anthony Callea, Kate Ceberano, Tim Campbell, Paulini Curuenavuli, Melinda Schneider, Kate DeAraugo, James Reyne, Brian Mannix, Tottie Goldsmith and The Chantoozies.

■ St Paul’s Anglican Church in Canterbury is presenting its third annual Concerts in Canterbury series.

The one-hour fine music concerts will be at 3pm on Sundays with a homemade afternoon tea served immediately afterwards.

The concerts are rganised by St Paul’s Canterbury Director of Music, Elizabeth-Anne Nixon.

The first concert in the series features the Auric Quartet.

The Australian Youth Choir and Trio Kharites will perform at subscequent events.

● Olivia Newton-John

■ The Miss Fisher Mysteries Costume Exhibition will be held at Rippon Lea Estate from September 7 to October 27.

■ There will be a season of circus and physical theatre at Darebin Arts and Entertainment Centre in the September school holidays.

■ Geelong Fringe Festival kicks off in September, and there are two special editions of the famous concert series A Conversation in the Key of… hosted by Tim Neal.

■ Arts Centre Melbourne will host a variety of music concerts, puppetry performances and workshops during the school holidays.

Lecture on imminent extinction ■ The Centre for Dialogue and St Michael’s Uniting Church are conducting their Annual Lecture: Enhancing Human Behaviour: Ethical and Social Implications to be delivered by Professor Julian Savulescu, Director of the Institute for Science and Ethics, University of Oxford, on Thursday, September 19 at 7pm at St Michael’s Church, 120 Collins St, Melbourne. Prof. Savulescu will address the controversial question of genetic enhancement in the face of rapid social change and imminent extinction.

● Prof. Julian Savulescu

What’s On In Melbourne

Luccio’s latest exhibition The Garden Of Sorrows opens Thurs★Marco day, November 7, at Steps Gallery in Carlton.

The National Gallery of Victoria is celebrating Monet’s last night ★ in Melbourne with a line-up of music acts and special guest pop-up talks. Monet’s Garden: The Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris, is exclusive the NGV and must close Sunday, September 8.

Artman Gallery is presenting the artwork of Gloria Stern. Her solo exhibition The Viewer opens October 8 at 635A Glenhuntly Rd, Caulfield South.

Footy Circus, starring Mark 'Jacko' Jackson and Warwick Cap per, will be staged at Wonderland Spiegeltent, Docklands on Saturday, September 14.

★ ★

PHOTO: IKON IMAGES

Page 4 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

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Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

ON TARGET FOR MORE LAUGHS

■ If you're familiar with Melbourne bred comedians who are making a splash in the world of laughs, then Nicolette Minster may have already served you up a barrel or two.

Nicolette's highly acclaimed comedy act - Girls Uninterrupted, partnered with comedienne Louise Joy McCrae (otherwise known as 'Lou'), took critics and audiences by storm earlier this year during the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Between writing new material with Lou for their latest show, entitled FML, which will debut at the Fringe Festival in September, and filming their online series Northside, based on their comedy sketches, Nicolette has also been preparing for possibly her biggest role as the new comedic face for retail store Target.

Due to her busy filming schedule, I caught up with Nicolette on her Porch (eventually) - jogging around the industrial area of Hoddle St -Punt Rd in Collingwood.

I have to ask (please slow down Nicolette) - why do you consider this industrial area to be your Porch?

It's a great place where I can be alone with my thoughts - mainly because no-one wants to run with me except you today, but we'll see how you go. Mark! Mark, where'd you go?

After our jog this morning, what are your commitments for the rest of the day?

I have in-store promotional work at Target in Doncaster. We are developing Instagram and Vine (short video) profiles for the new advertising campaigns in preparation for the official launch.

What exactly are you doing as the new international face of Target?

My comedic character, Rondelle, is obsessed with Target, and will be popping up a lot over the coming months in a number of commercials, which have just started to be televised.

Uninterrupted Porch Thoughts

We've completed three commercials so far.

How would you best describe Rondelle?

Rondelle is a shopaholic with an incredible eye for a great deal, and she wants everyone to know about it. It's hardly a stretch for me as an actress, I love a bargain. The ridiculous part is that, during my voice over recordings, I find myself being truly excited about what we're advertising. They have to edit out some of my ad lib comments like, 'this is REALLY cheap!'

When did you discover your love for acting?

I was encouraged by my parents to try acting at a young age, and, as I really enjoyed it, I stuck with it. My second choice back then was hairdressing -my ambition was to be the next Vidal Sassoon - so my lack of a remarkable hair-do is probably why my parents let me pursue the acting career.

What were some of your first professional acting gigs?

As a three year-old, I played the part of Kahlia (the second daughter of Lindy Chamberlain) in Evil Angels. I had a couple of lines of dialogue with Meryl Streep. I had no idea who she was. From there, I went on to play Paul Robinson's (Stefan Dennis) daughter in Neighbours.

Australia and Melbourne have a rich palette of female trail-blazing comedians. Who did you enjoy watching growing up, and

perhaps sparked your flair for a career in stand-up and sketch comedy?

Although I was influenced by a number of Australian, British and American comediennes, including Julia Zemiro and stage actress Kristin O'Leary, I would say Mary-Anne Fahey, and her 'Kylie Mole' character were my earliest inspiration.

I've also seen that with many TV network channels now available, repeats of Fast Forward have been showing recently, featuring Gina Riley, whose work I've always admired.

What inspired your Girls Uninterrupted comedy act with Louise Joy McCrae ('Lou')?

It was almost a happy accident.

We were a year apart at Ballarat Uni and had shared accommodation for a while. We met again later as keen visitors to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. After an initial chat over coffee, and a brief try-out of our respective material, we happened to meet a comedy producer who affirmed that Lou and I had great chemistry. It made sense to combine our talents (and share the workload), and so a duo was born.

Your last show, Good Value received an impressive 4.5 star rating from the HeraldSun. How do you believe you've most won over your critics and audiences?

I think they see we're not afraid to be authentically ourselves. Our humour is not about being particularly political or topical, but as simple and universal as being involved with basic human experiences, and having a good time with our audience.

Your new show FML will debut at the Fringe Festival in September. What does FML stand for and what will we expect to see?

FML is essentially a show that no acronym can't describe. It's a show about failure, small triumphs and life's sticky situations, that we tell by us-

● Girls Uninterrupted: Louise Joy McCrae and Nicolette Minster ing our unique style. At times it borders on being an absurd brand of sketch comedy. It's dark and full of pleasant surprises - it's a lot of fun.

You've received critical acclaim at successive Melbourne International Comedy Festivals.

How does each Festival differ from the previous one?

There's a huge difference every year, as there's no guarantee that what worked at last year's festival will work again this year. Turn To P13

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 - Page 5

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Page 6 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Sunnyside Up Elise, Alicia for Ron Lees on front cover

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Ash rver e s b O e n r u o lb e M The

● Ron Lees ■ Who remembers performer Ron Lees from the days of HSV-7 weekly show Sunnyside Up? Your scribe used to attend the Johnston St Teletheatre in Fitzroy to watch the shows go to air.

Ron Lees is still doing magnificently, and enjoying life on the Mornington Peninsula.

Also keeping the showbiz tradition alive in his family is daughter Veronica LeesAmato, who advertised her Stageworx academy on Page 2 of last week’s Observer (click on our website for details).

Ron’s other daughter, Andrea, makes wonderful music with music-manabout-town, Peter Sullivan.

Philip bound for Vietnam

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

● Elise Elliott with Alicia Loxley on Page One ■ Photographer Fiona Hamilton caught the colour of the Role Models night at the Sofitel Mebourne On Collins on our front cover, which was hosted by Elise Elliott (wife of 3AW’s Tom) abd Nine News’s Alicia Loxley.

Fiona Byrne tells me that the dinner featured a panel of inspiring Australian achievers, including Gerry Ryan, Professor Geoffrey Blainey, Tom Harley, Moira Kelly, Kelly Cartwright, Carolyn Creswell, George Calombaris, Jeremy Meltzer and Elizabeth Chong, who shared some of their stories of hard work, dedication, and success.

Role Models raised funds for the National Institute of Integrative Medicine and was a night of inspiration and motivation. There are more photos on Page 12.

in Australia that are beyond the reach of .normal. medical infrastructure. Demand for RFDS services is higher than ever, with a recorded 26 per centgrowth in activity since 2006.”

In Victoria, the RDFS is lucky to have Annette Allison as its public relations ‘face’.

● Annette Allison

On with the show: Jeanne

Swap Cards

■ Lois Stebbing tells me that a Swap Card sale day this Saturday (Aug. 31) will benefit the Peter MacCallum Cancer Research & Wildhaven Trust for Native Animals.

It is to be held at St Mary's Church Hall, Cnr Hood Cres & Glen Eira Rd, Caulfield from 10am - 3pm.

Some 50,000 different single cards will be available from 10c each, and there will be an auction of rare cards Phone Jill on 0413 456 996 or Ian on 0402 094 164.

Sounds of Bond

● Jeanne Pratt ■ Production Company Chairman Jeanne Pratt gets enthusiastic about her shows ... and usually attends every day. She outdid herself on Sunday with attendances at two performances of Singin’ In The Rain, saying of her cast: "If they can do it, so can I!"

Steph, you beauty!

Amanda to chair DRFS

● Philip Brady ■ Melbourne radio man Philip Brady, 74 years young, is bound for Vietnam next month. With his on-air partner Bruce Mansfield freshly back from an Atlantic cruise, Philip will soon be returning to a favourite destination.

Philip was sighted last week sharing a morning coffee with Observer columnist Mike McColl Jones.

Vic. winners ■ The Australian Writers' Guild and ABC Children’s Television have announced the successful Victorian applicants for the 2013 KidsAnimation Master Class.

They are Lucy Shaw, Warwick Holt and Holly Alexander.

The The selected writers will be provided with an excellent craft development opportunity, with the master class providing a practical learning environment .

● Amanda Vanstone ■ The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia this week announced the appointment of Amanda Vanstone as Chair of its National Board as part of a continued re-shaping of the organisation that is experiencing stronger demand for its services than at any time in its 85-year history.

“While we face many of the same pressures as the rest of the health system, we also have the challenge of providing health care to some of the remotest parts of Australia,”” says CEO Greg Rochford.

“We have a fleet of 61 aircraft operating from 21 bases which service most of Australia . close to 7 million square kilometres. In many cases, we are the only provider of critical health services to many communities

● Stephanie De Martin, winner of Diploma of Beauty Therapy category ■ It is National Skills Week and Chisholm Institite has celebrated another success by winning big at this year’s annual Hair and Beauty Industry Association Awards.

The outstanding winners were: ■ Jade Chester, mature age Frankston student, who won Certificate III in Hairdressing category ■ Lisa Arena, mature age Dandenong student, who won Certificate III in Beauty category ■ Stephanie De Martin, 21-year-old Berwick student, who won Diploma of Beauty Therapy category.

Whilst Jade and Lisa are currently still completing their studies in their respective areas, Stephanie completed her diploma and vocational studies in 2013.

Stephanie, now working in her dream career in skin treatment and dermatology, attributes much of her success to the teachers at Chisholm.

“The teachers were helpful, warm and created such a great atmosphere to achieve the best possible result from the students. I saw them more as friends and someone I could turn to in achieving my goals’, Stephanie said.

‘The variety at Chisholm is amazing, the theory and practical experience you receive is astounding and meant that I have had a great number of job opportunities. I am so happy where this course has taken me’. chisholm.edu.au

● Maria Mercedes ■ Melbourne publicist Julie Cavanagh tells me that tickets have just gone on sale for The Songs Of James Bond to be performed by Maria Mercedes, Kiyomi Vella, Susie Ahern and Ben Mingay.

James Bond films have developed a tradition of producing songs which have become major pop hits over the 50 years since the first 007 movie hit the screen.

Fans can see some of the finest musical Bond moments on stage at The Athenaeum Theatre, Collins St, for two nights only:November 8 and 9.

Backed by the 14-piece Spectre Orchestra and with video artistry of VJ Georgie Pinn, The Songs of James Bond will include such classic hits as Gold Finger (Shirley Bassey) Live And Let Die (Paul McCartney) Diamonds Are Forever (Shirley Bassey), Thunderball (Tom Jones) Sky Fall (Adele, who won a Grammymovie).

The songs and music of the James Bond films have been a vital part of the success of the James Bond movie franchise.\ Ticket prices are from $50 to $99. www.thesongsofjamesbond.com.au

Gala Night for Ivanhoe ■ Our family enjoyed a special occasion on Wednesday when Ivanhoe Grammar School presented its Gala 2013 at Hamer Hall.

Spotted in the big crowd were School Chairman Peter Kempen and wife Elaine, Principal Rod Fraser, Doug and Sarah Golden, Howard and Bev Purcell, artistic director Shaun Murphy, production co-ordinator Virginia Creed, musical co-ordinator Stephen Carpenter, Terry Kitchen and Astrida Cooper.

Some of the teaching staff included Gerry Foley, Deb Sukarna, event planner David Waugh, Denise Whelan and Peter Kendall.

A feature of the night was the opening by didgeridoo player Ron Murray. ● Award for service, Page 22

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Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 - Page 7

Court Roundsman

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

GROSS MISCONDUCT CASE: Observer COUNCILLOR OUT FOR 4 YEARS In This 116-Page Edition

City Desk: Melbourne’s A-Listers ................. Page 3 Mark Richardson: Straight From The Heart ... Page 4 Di Rolle: Hugh Riminton revealed ............. Page 8 Theatre: Macedon Players show ................ Page 9 Photos: Latest at Sofitel On Collins ............ Page 10 Melb. Confidential: Nurse banned ............... Page 11 Yvonne Lawrence: Life and Style ................Page 13 Gavin Wood: Live from West Hollywood ....... Page 15 Extra: Bing Crosby profile .......................... Page 16 Long Shots: Award for service .................... Page 22 Travel and Wine: David Ellis reports ........... Page 98 Heart Thy Neighbour Noel Coward show Local Theatre MSO 2014 plan

‘Sins’ at St Kilda

Observer Showbiz

● Jeffrey Trinidad and Brodie Chesher in Sins at Theatre Works, St Kilda from September 5.

Photo: Jayde Wilson of Boom Media ■ Sins, a provocative contemporary dance Brodie Chesher, Jeffrey Trinidad, Jayden work based on the seven deadly sins, is being Hicks, Jakob Ambrose and Adrian Ricks.

Performances: September 5, 7, 11, 12, 13, presented at Theatre Works, St Kilda from 14 at 8pm, with 2pm matinees on September 7 September 5-14.

Produced by Rickstix and Collaboration and 14.

Venue: Theatre Works, 14 Acland St, St The Project, Sins is created by leading dance Kilda artist Adrian Ricks (Cats, Everybody Dance Tickets: $35 Full, $30 Conc., $25 groups Now) and features the outstanding dance tal- 10+ (plus booking fee) ents of Diana Ricks, Brittany Page, Ashley Bookings: www.theatreworks.org.au Perrie, Cristina Filomena D'Agostino, - Cheryl Threadgold

40 YEARS FOR FR DOWLING

■ Fr Gerard Dowling will present the 40th Anniversary Edition of The Family Counsellor Program on Melbourne radio station RSN, formerly 3UZ, on Sunday (Sept.1).

Fr Dowling, 81, presented the first program on Sunday September 2, 1973.

The program has gone to air almost every Sunday night since. He has presented almost every edition, which could make The Family Counsellor Program one of the longest-running Australian radio shows ever with the same host.

Over the 40 years, Fr Dowling has dispensed Chris-

● Fr Gerard Dowling

tian guidance, wisdom and good humour. His offsiders have included Ken Sparkes, John Deeks, Craig Willis and Andrew Bensley.

The show first went to air on station 3UZ. In the late 1980s, the Program briefly moved to station 3DB/3TT, before returning to 3UZ, now broadcasting under the callsign RSN. It is thought the program has missed going to air only five times in 40 years, to make way for international racing broadcasts. The only times Fr Dowling was unable to present the show himself were during his serious cancer battle in 2006.

● Milvan Muto Photo courtesy Shepp. News ■ City of Greater Shepparton Councillor Milvan Muto has been disqualified from his municipal office for four years, after his appeal was heard by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

VCAT Vice-President Judge Sandra Davis and member Elizabeth Bensz dismissed each of Muto’s application, Muto must pay costs of $9262.

Muto faced allegations of gross misconduct from the Dpartment of Planning and Community Development.

He also faced similar allegations by fellow colleagues Geoffrey Dennis Dobson, Michael Polan, Cherie Julie Crawford, Christopher Neil Hazelman, Jenny Houlihan and Kevin Ryan.

Throughout the proceedings, Muto alleged VCAT members Davis and Bensz had bias against him. He also said made a similar allegation against Judge Macnamara.

During the hearing, Muto absented himself, and a lawyer was given instructions to say Muto was in hospital.

“It was clear that Mr Muto was not in hospital at all,” said Judge Davis and Ms Bensz.

A medical certificate from Dr Geln Russell said Muto was not fit to drive to Melbourne, “nor is he fit to represent himself at VCAT:.

He was described as “quiate agitated and hypertensive” ... “I do not find tha his mental state is well enough to represent himself adeqautely at present”.

The Tribuanl was told that Muto’s mood was low, had trouble reading, had a headache and could not concentrate, had a tremor, difficulty in sleeping, had high blood pressure, and was not psychologically fit to represent himself.

VCAT said Muto’s claim was “misconceived”.

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

Blow for finance firm ■ Thefight to save Gippsland Secured Investments from receivership suffered a major blow on Thursday when the Federal Court declined to grant an extension to the rescue effort unless the rescue group agreed to cover the legal costs of all parties for the next month, reports the Gippsland Times.

55 workers underpaid ■ Some 55 hairdressing and beauty firms in Melbourne, Bendigo and Mildura have underpaid $66,003 to 113 employees, the Fair Work Ombudsman has found.

Market on Sundays ■ The Dandenong Market will now open on Sundays from October 6. The extra day will be voluntary for stallholders. There will be no extra rents, says Chair Julie Bulsch.

Threats to kill alleged ■ A Myrtleford man, 24, faces 16 charges including threats to kill, intentionally and recklessly causing serious injury, unlawful assaults and drug charges. The man was due to face Wangaratta Court this week, as the Observer went to press.

Weather Forecast ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Today (Wed.). Chance of rain. 10°-22°.

Thurs. Chance of rain. 9°-21°.

Fri. Chance of rain. 8°-19°.

Sat. Mostly cloudy. 10°-19°.

Sun. Chance of rain. 7°-22°.

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 THINGS THAT MIGHT UPSET A PRIME MINISTER WHILE HE'S IN THE MAKE-UP CHAIR 5. "Hi. Ruddy by name, Ruddy by complexion.”

4. "Whoops. That's a nasty bald spot.”

3. "What a nice man Mr Abbott is.”

2. "You're a chatty little thing, aren't you?"

1. "Look on the bright side.

You can always ask your wife for a job.”

Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

To

My favourite books

Di For

Kathy Griffin: my kind of woman

● Kathy Griffin ■ Anyone who knows me well knows I love to laugh. I inherited from my mother. In fact our whole family loves to laugh.

When I look around and see what is happening in the world I think the ability to laugh and to laugh at oneself is a gift.

Kathy Griffin makes me laugh. Her New Year’s Eve programs with Anderson Cooper on CNN are a must-viewwith me. She is just my sort of woman.

Thank goodness Kathy Griffin is coming to Melbourne, doing what she does best – in front of a live audience.

Kathy is a multi-faceted performer with that fabulous rapid fire wit.

She has been making audiences laugh for years discussing Hollywood gossip and celebrity blunders.

The cutting edge and sometimes controversial comedian is bringing her ever changing live stand-up act to Melbourne in October. This is her third visit to Australia.

She received rave reviews in 2008 when she filmed one of her multi Emmy-award winning Foxtel show, Kathy Griffin, My Life On The D List and sold-out shows in 2011.

Mark my words: tickets will walk over the counter now that her show is on sale.

A multi-Grammy comedy recording nominee and New York Times No.1 best-selling author, Kathy has carved out a nice niche for herself as fearless and peerless. That is what I like about her.

Her no-holds-barred brand of stand-up comedy has made her a few enemies in Hollywood and political circles alike …

In 2005, Kathy’s reality show, Kathy Griffin: My Life On The D List, debuted to rave reviews and was nominated for an Emmy for outstanding reality program, and the second season won Kathy her first Emmy in that same category.

The third season premiered in 2007 and again won Kathy an Emmy for outstanding reality program. Kathy Griffin is no fool.

In 2009, Kathy added best-selling author to her list of achievements.

Her tell-all autobiography entitled, Official Book Club Selection: Memoir According To Kathy Griffin, topped the New York Times best sellers list, as well as The Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly lists.

Reviewers rave about her. “The Emmy-winning comic’s smart, savvy ribbing comes from observing stars in unguarded moments. May she have VIP access!’said US Magazine.

Very involved with the gay and lesbian community Kathy was presented with the prestigious Vanguard Award at the 2009 Glaad Media Awards.

She is often given the award of Honorary Gay and among her numerous awards she has been nominated four years in a row for the Television Producer of the Year.

Don’t miss her show in Melbourne – I promsse you, you like me will leave the theatre, aching from laughter!

Melbourne Palais Theatre. Thursday, October 17. Book at Ticketmaster, 136100, www.ticketmaster.com.au Tickets are on sale now.

I love my job! with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE

■ Reading is one of my passions and since being to Bali I have been reading as much as I can about the place that I have fallen in love with.

I went along to book club recently and caught up with my book club members. It was the first time we had all been together for a while and it was great to see everyone.

The book of choice was Christopher Isherwood’s The Berlin Stories.

It is not compulsory to read the chosen books at our book club as long as we are reading something. Along with this book I have a most riveting book, Sins of My Father by Eamonn Duff.

It is the untold story behind Schappelle Corby’s ill-fated drug run.

My goodness what a story that is.

From The Berlin Stories to Schappelle, I have been sitting up till the wee small hours, my mind boggling.

The Berlin Stories is a book consisting of two short novels by Christopher Isherwood: Goodbye To Berlin and Mr Norris Changes Trains.

It was published in 1945.

The Berlin Stories was chosen as a Time 100 best English-language novels of the 20th century.

Great reading in both books. I have about six books lined up to read.

The next one is My Lunches With Orson – conversations between Henry Jaglom and Orson Welles.

I can’t wait to read that one.

REVEALED: HUGH RIMINTON

■ Hugh Riminton has his own show on Channel Ten coming up in early September.

I find him really good to watch and is what is known in the television industry as a good newsman.

He does his homework and has a personable manner. so much so that when he is reading the news, or doing a news story - good news or bad - I trust him.

It is so good to hear that the producers of Ten News have created a show for him.

Revealed with Hugh Riminton will take viewers behind the headlines as it covers the very best local and international news stories.

I devour television news programs and watch them all, so I am looking forward to this one.

Award-winning National Political Editor and Canberra Bureau Chief, Hugh will present feature interviews, profiles and investigative reports on a wide variety of topical issues.

Exclusive stories from critically acclaimed news pioneer CBS News recognised worldwide for its high quality journalism and as the maker of the most successful current affairs series in local broadcast history - will form a key part of Revealed, along with compelling locally produced stories.

Revealed will draw on award winning presenters and reporters from Ten News, including the fabulous Brad McEwan and Danielle Isdale, as well as Hugh Riminton, to report on original local and international stories.

Network Ten

bourne Recital Centre, is award-winning Andrea Keller and her latest project, From Ether.

“Andrea Keller has become one of Aus-tralia’s most consistently interesting musical minds.” says ABC Radio and how right they are.

The fabulous Melbourne-based jazz pianist composer, in collaboration with the beautiful vocalist Gian Slater and brilliant guitarist Geoff Hughes, present the music of From Ether inspired by photographic images tweeted down to earth from Commander Chris Hadfield during his term residing and working on the International Space Station this year.

I remember seeing him on the television ● Hugh Riminton news coverage and in I just pour myself the newspapers.

Head of News and In this debut perforCurrent Affairs, An- into the arts and keep thony Flannery, myself involved in what mance, the electrosaid: “The name of Re- Melbourne has to of- acoustic infused new vealed says it all. Our fer and there is so much music From Ether beaim is to reveal the happening for every- come the live and visceral soundscape for heart of stories, to peel one.

Hadfield’s photoAmong the great back the layers and reveal the in-depth, be- music that is happening graphs.

Hadfield was dehind the scenes stories in Melbourne, at the that viewers want to moment at The Arts scribed as “perhaps the Hub including Mel- most social media see and hear.

“How will we do that? By tapping one of the giants of the global news business, CBS, and our own remarkable talent base at Network Ten. “Revealed will be a must-watch for anyone who is interested in news and the news behind the news.”

Count me in.

So sad ■ As a football lover, I am so sad to see and watch daily the unravelling story of Essendon and the powers that be. It is a sad story. And may only get sadder.

● Andrea Keller

savvy astronaut ever to leave Earth” by Forbes magazine after building, a considerable audience on social media, including more than one million Twitter followers.

His exchanges with actors William Shatner and other Star Trek actors received media coverage as did his rendition of David Bowie’s Space Oddity when returning to earth this year after spending five months on the International Space Station.

He played along to the track on his guitar in zero gravity in a somewhat chilling rendition and he became an international sensation.

This performance should be most interesting, I am looking forward to it.

It will be presented

by Melbourne Recital Centre in the Salon on Saturday, September 14 at 7pm.

Tickets: $35 ($25 concession). Bookings melbournerecital.com.au or ring 96993333.

At Last ■ I am thrilled to see that At Last The Etta James Story Unforgettable is coming back to Melbourne.

It will return to Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from Nov.12-17.

It will star the powerhouse talent of Vika Bull, one of Australia’s most respected, powerful soul singers, At Last has garnered standing ovations and rave reviews throughout its Australian tour.

Tickets are on sale now from Ticketek. www.at lasttheettajames story.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 - Page 9

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Showbiz News

‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’ AT MACEDON Briefs Burglary

■ Cobram Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for assistance from the public following a brazen aggravated burglary. They have release a face image as they continue their investigation. Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto crimestoppers.com.au

■ The Mount Players’ delightful production of Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias can be seen in Macedon until September 14.

Founded in 1972 by Macedon resident Neville Thurgood and interested locals, the theatre company developed the old Presbyterian Church in Macedon into a cosy 50-seat theatre.

Sadly, the 1983 Ash Wednesday fires destroyed the original theatre with all its theatrical resources, memoirs and photographs, and many members’ homes.

However, the Mount Players continued to perform at temporary venues until the purpose-built Mountview Theatre opened at 56 Smith St in 1990.

This new theatre stands proudly amid picturesque surroundings beside the natural bush setting of Ash Wednesday Park, and patrons are greeted by a beautiful woodpanelled foyer, well-appointed theatre facilities and a lovely, welcoming atmosphere.

Director Natasha Boyd has created a standout production of Steel Magnolias, the bitter-sweet comedydrama that has audiences laughing and crying.

Set between 1985 and 1987, we share the ups and downs of the lives of six women who meet regularly at Truvy Jones’s Hairdressing Salon.

The spacious, atmospheric hairdressing salon set by Alison Dudon (constructed by Natasha and her father Philip) allows dialogue to be delivered during movement, rather than being predominantly confined to the salon chairs. This works very well.

A great cast has been assembled to portray the six diverse characters in this well-paced show..

Sonja Prater presents an upbeat, earthy Truvy, while

Fined $25,000

■ A Dunolly farmer has been fined $25,000 over the illegal removal of 21 eucalyptus trees from his property.

The man engaged a contractor to remove the trees, some up to 400 years old, without a planning permit.

Jailed ■ Criminal Paul Damien McDonald, 31, had been out of jail for one month when he attacked his partner of almost eight years. He has been jailed for 5½years.

● The Mountview Theatre, home of the Mount Players, Macedon..

André Haermeyer is the Observer’s guest commentator for the 2013 Federal Election.

André is the former Commissioner to Europe for the State of Victoria, and is a former Victorian Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for Manufacturing and Export, Minister for Small Business and Minister for Financial Services

Is it over? ● Annelle (Ebony Beaton), Clairee (Julie Wade) and Ouiser (Maree Hingston) in Steel Magnolias, being presented in Macedon until September 14.

Ebony Beaton’s enjoyable performance brings new meaning to the role of Truvy’s assistant, Annelle.

Julie Wade as former Mayoral wife Clairee makes the most of every word in her dialogue and Maree Hingston is terrific as sharp-tongued Ouiser.

Marianne McLoughlin delivers a moving performance as Shelby, particularly when she suffers diabetic shock, and the subtle conveying of emotions by Errin Hewlett as Shelby’s mother, M’Lynn, makes for compelling theatre.

Kath Addicoat has designed the stylish costumes, while effective lighting and sound design is by Scott Hasse, Russell Servis and Natasha Boyd respectively.

Last week, the community-conscious Mount Players raised $1000 for the Look Good, Feel Better appeal, which helps manage appearance-related effects of cancer treatment.

On Friday, August 30, $5 extra will be added to each ticket for the Diabetes Australia appeal.

A visit to see this top production of Steel Magnolias in Macedon is well worth the drive.

Performance Season: Until September 14 Venue: Mountview Theatre, 56 Smith Street, Macedon Tickets: $25/$22 Bookings: 1300 463 224 www.themountplayers.com - Cheryl Threadgold

$100,000 pay-out by boss for sexual harassment ■ Justice Gregory Garde, President of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, has ruled that an employer must pay $100,000 and some costs after being found guilty of sexually harassing a worker.

Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

André Haermeyer

The female victim said her legal costs ($138,544 in the Tribunal alone) were more than the $100,000 sum allowed. Some 14 allegations of harassment were made.

Justice Garde said the employer would have to pay costs incurred be-

tween May and October last year, plus “the costs thrown away by the late service of the (employer’s) witness statement and exhibit on November 7, 2012, including one and one half-days legal costs of the hearing.”

Observations ■ Melton Council has shut out some community groups from performing at its annual Carols

By Candlelight.

■ Renee Jade Noble, 33, of Elwood, has been placed on a community corrections order after pleading guilty to drug trafficking and possession.

■ The Safety House Association has ceased operations. Safety houses across Victoria have dwindled from 8000 to 500.

■ Bendigo Health has announced that its Choices abortion clinic is to re-open, reports the Bendigo Weekly.

■ Businessman Mathew Killer of Black Rock has been fined $2000 after atacking a man.

■ We are now more than halfway into a five-week election campaign. To most Australians it seems more like the dying stages of a bizarre seven monthlong campaign.

Yet, only today, with the election date less than two weeks away, the two major parties have only just ‘launched’ their campaigns.

Remember when campaign launches occurred at the start of the campaign and sought to lay out the policy agenda and themes that the campaign would be run on?

This election campaign, more than any other in living memory, has failed to excite emotions, let alone inspire.

Frankly, it has been long and tedious.

Most people appear to have switched off already.

If the latest polls are repeated in 10 days time, Tony Abbott will become Prime Minister of Australia in two weeks time.

Yet, if you ask most Australians what Tony Abbott stands for, other than the slogan of "stop the boats" and, maybe, his controversial, gold-plated paid parental leave scheme, most Australians would have little idea.

He has adopted the small target approach of John Howard in 1996.

It is about turning the election into a referendum on the government's performance of the last three years, rather than the choice between alternative programs.

With two weeks to go, most of the polls seem to be clustering around a 53 - 47 or 52 - 48 margin in favour of the Coalition. Given the vehement campaign by the Murdoch media, which owns 70 per cent of print media in Australia, in favour of the Coalition, that the polls have moved, at best, 1per cent in the Coalition's favour over three weeks, suggests that Australians are not soaking up the crude opinion dressed up as fact - FoxNews style - reporting being dished up to them by the Murdoch papers.

However, the mere fact that it is not going backwards can be of little comfort to Labor.

Labor has precious little time to inject some interest back into the election and create momentum towards it.

The problem for Labor is that its scope for doing so is very constrained.

With a, by now, largely bored and disinterested electorate and a media that has, seemingly already written its headlines for Sunday, September 8, Labor will find it difficult to regain any traction.

With the Murdoch media actively campaigning for the Liberal - National Coalition and the Fairfax media obsessed with esoteric, inner-city issues, totally irrelevant to voters in most marginal seats, the degree of difficulty for Labor to turn things around in the last two weeks is high.

Yet a Labor win is not impossible it needs to be bolder than it has been and take some risks.

It needs to neutralise negative perceptions of its last six years in office. That means a mea culpa about its mistakes. Peter Beattie was a past master at this, with great political effect.

The electorate will forgive mistakes provided you acknowledge them, and convince the electorate that you have learned from them.

Labor also needs to more effectively sell its achievements - particularly steering the economy through the greatest global economic crisis since the Great Depression, without a single quarter of negative growth.

Turn To Page 22

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne People

Role Models Dinner Sofitel Melbourne On Collins Photos: Fiona Hamilton

● Val and Gerry Ryan at the Role Models dinner at the Sofitel

● Beverley Pinder-Mortimer and Judy Green

● George Calombaris and Tom Harley

● Sally Browne and Judy Ann Stewart

● Zoe Walsh and Nicole Walsh

● Michael Chong with his mum Elizabeth Chong

● Carolyn Creswell, Doone Colless and Uschi Schwartz

● Moira Kelly and Marilyn McQualter

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 - Page 11

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Confidential Melbourne

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

‘ALARMING LACK OF COMPETENCE’ NURSE BANNED FOR 2 YEARS

Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets

Ranald returns to The Age

● Ranald Macdonald ■ Who noticed the byline of former Age Managing Director Ranald Macdonald last week?

Macdonald joined with former Mornington Shire President David Gill to publish a criticism of Victorian Planning Minister Matthew Guy’s announcements on rural ‘green wedge’ planning zones.

The newspaper disclosed that Macdonald, a former is a member of the Flinders Community Association, and that Gill was a member of the Western Port Regional Planning Council.

Macdonald is a grandson of Oswald Syme, whose father was David Syme, credited with building The Age. Last year, Macdonald took a swipe at his own newspaper, where he was Editor-in-Chief for seven years. Writing in Crikey, he said: “Indiscriminate cost cutting has reduced the integrity, authority and investigative depth of articles in The Age ... one needs to recognise that for many years now Fairfax has been run with a lack of foresightedness of a level hard to contemplate.”

Macdonald was MD of David Syme and Co from 1964-83, chairman of the Media Council of Australia 1975-80, president of the Newspaper Publishers Association (establishing the Australian Press Council), chairman of the International Press Institute 1978-80, then for six years current affairs presenter on 774 3LO and, after teaching journalism at RMIT, became university professor and chairman of journalism at Boston University 1995-2005.

Macdonald was a former President of the Collingwood Football Club from 1982, but stood down in 1986 after a financial crisis hit the Magpies, which had debts of $2.9 million. He stood down in favour of Allan McAlister.

Folklore incorrectly has it that David Williamson’s play The Club was based on Macdonald, however the play was first staged in 1977, and the film starring Graham Kennedy in the role as President Ted Parker, a pie factory owner, was made in 1980.

Macdonald is a cousin of Victorian-born media proprietor Rupert Murdoch.

■ A Victorian nurse has been banned from working for two years, after what the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal called an “alarming lack of competence”.

Yun Yun Chen was found guilty of professional misconduct by VCAT Senior Member Noreen Megay, and Members Pearson and Bylhouwer.

The Tribunal heard that Chen ignored instructions at a handover at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Chen fed a patient who was “nil by mouth”, administered the drug Atenolol to another patient without conferring with a medical practitioner, tried to wash a third patient’s mouth with acetone. Chen later told staff she did not know what acetone was.

Chen fed the ‘nil by mouth’ patient after a food tray was incorrectly delivered by the food services trolley.

She administered the drug to the second patient without taking blood pressure or heart beat observations.

The patient’s slow heart beat had been measured at 48 beats per minute.

Chen disconnected a patient’s intravenous extension tubing, asking the patient’s daughter to hold the tubing,

Reward

Teacher struck off after sex offence

which was full of the patient’s blood.

Chen did not discuss the risk of infection with the daughter who was not wearing protective clothing.

The Tribunal reprimanded Chen, cancelled her Division 1 Nursing registration, and disqualified her from applying for registration for two years.

VCAT heard that the Chineseborn nurse had migrated to Australia in 1999, completed Division 1 studies at Victoria University, and worked as an agency nurse with Lemore Nursing Agency from 2009-10.

A performance review saud Chen lack competency in seven areas,

Compo bid allowed after 5 years ■ A man has been granted an extension of time to submit an application to the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal, despite the event taking place more than five years ago.

VCAT Senior Member Ian Proctor allowed the extension to ‘TQ’ after an incident where a Council worker is alleged to have assaulted the man, causing a closed fracture to the nose and a cut to the lip.

TQ was punched after confronting the Council worker. TQ’s behaviour at the hospital was said to be aggressive and inappropriate.

TQ told the Tribunal that he had a dysfunctional life, and had been hit in the head with a cricket bat

Whispers

when he was a primary school student, aged 7.

His brother intentionally ran over him with a car. He was shot at, but not hit, in a domestic situation.

He last saw his two children in 2000.

TQ said the delay was vaused by him focusing on his homeless son.

Supporting evidence was provided by a psychologist, Mr Jago.

Mr Proctor said it was fair and equitable to allow a time extension.

Groups to lose status ■ A number of Victorian associations apear set to lose their incorporation status, says Deputy Registrar David Betts. A Victoria Government Gazette notice advises that the associations affected are: Wyndham Community Centres Network Inc.; Fit Kids Foundation Inc.; Holmes St Tenant’s Group Inc.; Ice 2000 Technology Education Services Inc.; HIM Centre Heidelberg International Ministry Centre Inc.; Seymour Rafting Festival Committee Inc.; Dog Rescue Association of Victoria Inc.

■ Victorian school teacher Bernard Paul Maude has been disqualified from teaching.

The Victorian Institute of Teaching has note that Maude was convicted in June of three counts of sexual penetration of a child under 16 years.

He was disqualified from teaching as of that date and his registration as a teacher in Victoria was cancelled.

The official notice relating to Maude’s removal as a teacher was published on Thursday in the Victoria Government Gazette.

● Graham Kinniburgh ■ Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Ken Lay last week published a $100,000 reward notice to establish the identity of the person responsible for the homicide of Graham Allan Kinniburgh in 2003.

Kinniburgh was portrayed in the Underbelly TV series by actor Gerard Kennedy.

Takeover

Rumour Mill

Hear It Here First

Radio station pays fine ■ The Rumour Mill hears that Australian cricket coach Darren Lehmann’s $3000 fine has been paid by the Triple M radio network.

Lehmann was fined for calling England opening bowler Stuart Broad a cheat during an interview aired on Triple M. Lehmann admitted the offence and was fined 20 per cent of his match fee by the International Cricket Council referee Roshan Mahanama. ● Darren Lehmann

Night-time changes?

■ Will the departure of Murray Wilton from the evening timeslot at 3AW’s sister station in Sydney, 2UE, have any effect on the Melbourne Nightline program hosted by Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady. Will National Content Manager, Clark Forbes, look for a national solution?

E-Mail: Confidential@MelbourneObserver.com.au

● Andy Mathers ■ Andy Mathers will replace Dean Anglin as the General Manager of Geelong radio stations K-ROCK and Bay FM. He has been working for the S & J Media Group in Melbourne, and as Sales Director Smooth FM 91.5 and Client Director at Nova 100.

On tour

● Megan Castran ■ Toorak gal Megan Castran is delighting friends with her social media messages ... currently from Mykonos, and recently in Zurich and Rome.

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

The Hitch-Hikers guide to Freemasonry A 10-part series. Chapter 7.

By Justin White, Manager, Member Operations

John Berhang running for Parkinson's Disease

■ Born in Melbourne in November 1951 John was very active at school, participating in the following sports, Aussie Rules football, judo, gymnastics, tennis and athletics.

He started to jog casually in 1981 and then became more and more interested in longer distances and started to enter into numerous 10 kilometre 'Fun Runs' including the Herald Sun 10 kilometre marathon.

He started to increase the distances, and in 1983 ran his first fund raising run which was for the Royal Freemasons Homes, running 20 kilometres and raising $700.

He entered his first Melbourne Marathon in 1986 finishing in a time of 6.5 hours, running a total of five .

John ran a number of half marathons and full marathons raising a total of $20,000 for the Freemasons Hospital Breast Cancer Treatment Centre, together with John Housey, and has also raised funds for other charities including the Women's International Zionist Organisation (WIZO).

His eldest son Simon took up 'track and field' competitively with the A.J.A.X. Maccabi Athletic Club in the early 1990s as a junior, and persuaded his father to run with him in the club, in the 'Vets' section.

In 1993 John and his son were selected to represent Australia at the 14th Maccabi Games held in Israel, where Simon competed in the 800 metres for the juniors section, and John in the 10 kilometre run for the Masters.

In 1995 he competed in a number of events at the Victoria Health 5th Australian Masters Games in Melbourne, in which to his own surprise , he received a bronze medal for the Steeplechase.

He represented Australia again at the Maccabi Games in 1997 where four Australians tragically lost their lives due to the bridge collapsing just prior to the opening ceremony.

At those games he participated in the 5000 metres and once again the half marathon.

He continued running in other marathons, half marathons and 10 kilometre runs until 2004 when he had to have a total knee replacement carried out on the left knee, after competing in his last

● John Berhang marathon in a time of 3 hours 13 minutes, half the time it took to run his first marathon.

John was diagnosed as having Parkinson's Disease in around 2009 causing him to stop running and regretted not having ever run in the Sydney City to Surf competition.

This year in 2013, he has decided to compete in the City to Surf run, even if it is only to walk the distance, so he can raise money for Parkinson's Disease, and also so he can say that he has participated in and has completed the City to Surf as well as knocking off another item of his 'bucket list'.

If you or any organisation wish to support John in this worthwhile cause and help him reach his target, tax deductable donations can still be pledged up until August 30. John welcomes you to call him on 0412 648 657 or log on to: https://city2surf2013.everydayhero.com/ au/john-i-berhang So far John has raised approximately $50,000 for various charities and would dearly love to make that figure $60,000 after this effort.

John completed the City to Surf in Sydney (the biggest foot race in the world), in a time of 2 hours 37 minutes and five seconds, and came 61,379th out of a field of about 85,000.

Although only raising just over $7,000 so far, and $3,000 short of his goal, John is glad that he has crossed off one more item from his bucket list and is proud that through his efforts people will get relief in various ways.

The highlight of the run, was crossing the finish line and hearing someone in the crowd yell out "Well done Brother!" and looking around, there was another man wearing a hat with the square and compasses on it.

■ Why Become a Freemason? Why would you become a Freemason? This is not an easy question to answer, because every brother has his own reasons and perspective on why he originally enquired and then proceeded with a decision to become a member.

So - there are a multitude of answers to this complex question. However, over the years, Freemasons have openly stated their reasons, so perhaps the best way is to explore and try to explain, some of the values that attracted them.

Freemasonry has a strong moral code. Its ritual encourages brethren to consider their actions and, more especially, the effect of their actions upon others.

In fact there is a piece of Masonic ceremony, which sums this up very nicely, as follows: "A man, rising to eminence by merit, should live respected and die regretted". By joining Freemasonry a man will be accepted into a brotherhood of 'like-minded' men around the world - men with similar values and understanding.

Freemasonry is like life's journey, gradually identifying and evaluating your inner-self that is, what 'makes you tick'!

No one can tell you what that journey will be and what effect joining will have on your personal inner-self. This is the joy of Freemasonry.

The joy of personally finding ones inner-self.

It will not happen immediately; it will be a lifelong revelation. Freemasonry is similar to life itself, in that in most cases you receive back in proportion to what you put in.

First Leaders of Freemasonry in Victoria Sir Alexander James Peacock, KCMG, MLA ■ Sir Alexander James Peacock was born in Creswick, Victoria, and educated at Creswick Grammar School.

After completing his studies Sir Alexander passed the Victorian civil service examination at just 13 years of age, becoming briefly a school teacher at Creswick Grammar, but then leaving for Melbourne due to ill health.

After a stint as a clerk in Melbourne he returned to Creswick, where he worked in a legal office representing the mining industry.

He eventually started his own legal practice representing the interests of over 50 mining com-

Looking forward to 125 ■ There is no doubt, that the foundations of our wonderful city, and great state, have been hugely influenced by some great leaders and principles, that directly relate to Freemasonry.

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

There were four predominant governing constitutions for Freemasonry in Victoria during the 1800s, the English, Scottish and Irish and the Victorian.

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

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

For more than 125 years, Freemasons in Victoria have played instrumental roles in the development of Melbourne and indeed Victoria.

In 2014, Freemasons Victoria will share with all Victorians, and indeed the world, our 125th anniversary celebrations of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria.

A number of public and private events will be held to celebrate and commemorate the remarkable achievements that Freemasonry has made to the great state of Victoria.

Further details on how Freemasons Victoria will be celebrating this milestone will be advertised on our website www.freemasonsvic.net.au and regular updates

There are three great principles which are the cornerstone of Freemasonry - brotherly love, relief and truth.

They are universal and recognised by men of different faiths and cultures as a way of working together for the overall improvement of society.

They are best explained as follows: 1. Brotherly Love Every true Freemason will show tolerance and respect for the opinions of others and behave with kindness and understanding to his fellow creatures.

2. Relief Freemasons are taught to practice charity and to care - not only for family and friends, but also for the community as a whole, both by charitable giving and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.

3. Truth Freemasons strive for truth, requiring high moral standards and aiming to achieve them in their own lives.

Freemasons believe that these principles represent a way of achieving higher standards in life.

There has never been a better time to become a Freemason here in Victoria. As a result, there is much good information to be found on www.freemasonsvic.net.au For more information about becoming a Freemason or to fill out an application, contact the Freemasons Victoria membership team at membership@freemasonsvic.net.au or call 1800Freemason today!

By Gabrielle Forman

● The first Grand Installation held in the Melbourne Town Hall in 1889

panies, a highly successful legal practice; Sir Alexander gained financial means to begin a political career.

In 1889 Sir Alexander was elected to the Victorian Legislative Assembly for the seat of Clunes and Allendale near Ballarat, which he held for 43 years.

In 1897 he was elected as one of the Victorian delegates to the Constitutional Convention which wrote the Australian Constitution - he was a passionate advocate for the Federation of Australia.

In 1901, he chose not to stand for the new Parliament of Australia, instead he stayed in Victorian politics and when Premier Turner resigned to contest the first federal elections, Peacock succeeded him and became Premier of Victoria.

Sir Alexander was known as 'the laughing Premier', he possessed a jovial disposition, and a very hearty laugh which he became famous for.

He was also a man of great compassion.

Sir Alexander joined Freemasonry in 1882 at the age of 21, in the Creswick Havilah Lodge No.26. He was the Worshipful Master of his beloved lodge just six years later, and by 1900 he became Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Victoria. At 39 he is still the youngest ever person to reach this esteemed office of Freemasonry in Victoria.

Sir Alexander Peacock died on October 7, 1933. The then Grand Master William Kerr, CMG, CBE said "By his industry, devotion to duty, friendliness and uprightness of character he won for himself a unique position in the affection of the people of Victoria, irrespective of station and religious or political creeds … We recall with gratitude his example and his fine service to the State and the Craft".

Two final tributes honour the legacy of Sir Alexander Peacock; an obelisk was erected to his memory in Creswick, and a bronze bust was cast by notable sculptor Paul Montford, which is placed in Parliament House, Melbourne.

■ Excerpts taken from Wikipedia and The Masonic Grand Masters of Australia by Kent Henderson

● To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, or attend upcoming public events, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au or ’Like’ our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/freemasonsvic for the most up to date information. ● ‘Freemasons: The Inside Story’ airs every Monday night at 8.30pm on Channel 31, with replays throughout the week on Thursdays at 12.30am, 3pm and Saturdays at 12.30pm. Or catch up online at www.c31.org.au and follow the links.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 - Page 13

Porch Thoughts

By Mark Richardson

● From Page 4

ON TARGET FOR MORE LAUGHS

■ Humour is very subjective (and there's always a scary thought that we'll be 'found out' as frauds!), so we have to be prepared for the highs and lows, but it's always a relief when we know that the audience 'gets' us. We can then just get on with the show, and with having fun!

Your Northside comedy sketch series is based on Girls Uninterrupted, featuring yourself and Lou, has been released to social media sites. What is the series about?

Northside is an online series of short 'webisodes', with some running narrative, as well as short sketches built on characters we've developed from liv

ing on the 'north side' of the Yarra.

These are often the type of sketch which is logistically difficult to do on stage, but lends itself well to video, particularly with the freedom that this medium offers to be ourselves completely. We worked with a fantastic production crew (lead by Pennie Brown), and have done six webisodes to-date.

Why did you and Lou create the series?

We thought that during our stageshow 'downtime', we'd introduce our act to a different audience group, who are more used to online entertainment; they might then decide to come and see

our live show in person.

What is your Porch Thought For The Day? If you're putting in the long hours to be successful in your work, make it something you really enjoy; if you're doing a 17-hour day, make it 'fun and fast'.

■ See Nicolette and Lou performing Girls Uninterrupted:FML at the Melbourne Fringe Festival from September 20-October 5. While you're waiting for show-dates to arrive, view their hilarious Northside webisodes at: www.youtube.com/ girlsuninterrupted - Mark Richardson

● Nicolette playing the role of Target's shopaholic Rondelle

Melbourne

Observer Life & Style

A NIGHT AT THE ‘FLICKS’

■ I was never big in going to the movies until I included a movie segment in my Saturday night radio show.

Of course I had to see a film before I talked about it, and once the publicity girls knew that a new segment had started, the invitations came thick and fast to previews.

Previewing a film in a private cinema is the only way to go. The hospitality is equal to no other and the lounge chairs are big enough for you to curl up if the movie is a bummer.

It wasn’t long before the film segment was rating its socks off, and all of a sudden I was being offered visiting movie stars to interview, and red carpet invitations became the norm.

Yvonne’s Column

Precious film critics

■ There was only one cardinal rule when you are previewing a film: you must never discuss the film with another film critic.

I thought the film critic guys were being a bit precious at first, but I soon got into the habit of just nodding a greeting as we walked out.

Besides I always love to discuss the merits of a film I’ve just seen over a cup of coffee and Denbeigh Salter became the man.

When I look back at my lack of movie information I feel so deprived.

My mother would never let me go to a Saturday afternoon matinee like other kids.

My husband used to tell me about his role-playing when he and his mates went to the Saturday afternoon shows.

They’d rush home, get dressed in Indian headdress or cowboy chaps and reenact the entire cowboys and Indians film they had just seen.

Alas, I never knew what I was missing, and more importantly I never got to swoon over a movie star, as did my friends.

At the Flea House

■ It was dear old Denbeigh who used to meet me at the previews and then later we’d discuss the film on my radio program.

We didn’t always agree, but it was stimulating. There was nothing that Denbeigh didn’t know about movies, and the open-line calls didn’t let up for the entire hour.

But not being brought up on films I became a late developer. Mum did take me to the Dendy theatre in Brighton occasionally on a Saturday night.

And I remember another theatre in Church Street called ‘The George’ or the ‘Flea House’ as it was known by the locals.

The George, or it might have been called ‘The Prince George’ had an upstairs and Mum used to book the seats for the front row of the balcony.

with Yvonne Lawrence yvonne.lawrence@bigpond.com

In so much trouble ■ One night I sneaked in my knitting, and Mum didn’t realise until the ball of wool toppled over the balcony onto the lower floor.

I was in so much trouble, and it was no use explaining that I wanted to finish the scarf I was knitting for an outing through the week.

Of course I didn’t dare remind her at interval that I usually bought a Violet Crumble bar and an ice cream.

But it was not enough to make me a movie fan. It was a book that Peter found in the local Op shop.

I Found It At The Flickers, written by our good friend, John –Michael ‘Hollywood’ Howson, that got me reminiscing about what going to the movies had brought into my life.

John was so knowledgeable about films. He wasn’t known as Hollywood Howson for nothing. He could tell stories about the stars he had known all night and keep us enthralled. Our dinner parties were legendary.

Meeting Mickey Rooney ■ My only contribution about a Hollywood star was my story when I interviewed Mickey Rooney and what happened to the magnificent and outrageously expensive crocodile handbag that the station had bought for his new wife.

I took it to the Southern Cross Hotel to give it to her, only to be told that she had packed up and returned to the States.

Mickey told me to give it to the hotel maid who was tidying his suite. It was years before I owned such a handbag.

● Mum would book us into the Dendy Theatre in Brighton I could well believe how he had had so many After Denbeigh became too ill to come into wives because he made a woman feel so special. the studio, David Earl who owned a picture theEven I came under his spell. atre in Coburg took over the role of critic.

David had a wonderful sense of humour and going to a preview with him was always great fun.

He invited me to see a film at his theatre one ■ I watched a movie on Foxtel the other night which most moviegoers had seen months ago. night, the film I can’t remember, but he invited Well, I don’t have to be up to speed with my me into his office to meet his guest of honour and film reviews any more and I can take my time. it was the violinist from Shindlers List. Imagine.

The real violinist, and what a conversation I But I loved The Notebook so much.

A tearjerker, but not schmaltzy, just a tender had.

Of course I devoured John- Michael’s book love story showing that love is ageless. But you will be moved to tears if you have any heart at in one night and the rest of he night Peter and I talked film and his Saturday arvo fun. all.

Asking a co-compere about a sad film and whether the script had moved him, he just looked at me as if I were mad, Then I asked him if he felt sad when Bambi’s ■ Thank you John-Michael for helping me to mother was killed and he laughed at me. I remember and to enjoy your stories about your never liked this fellow after that. Funny how life with the stars. you go off people. A bit like people who don’t And to remember those terrific nights at our like animals. I give them a wide berth too. house with you and Mary, your mum.

I think of Mary every time I see a sprightly mature woman wearing shoes with heels that are as high as church spires.

I bet Mary didn’t even own a pair of flat heel ■ Natalie Millar who ran a cinema in Toorak used to buy the most wonderful films. Every one ballet shoes.

If you haven’t seen The Notebook do yourself a gem.

And I could guarantee that I would come out a favour and take it out on DVD. Until next week.

- Yvonne of the darkened theatre with tears streaming down Contact: Editor, Melbourne Observer, my cheeks at nearly every film she screened.

P.O. Box 1278, Research.

I miss those film days that Natalie hosted.

Tender love story

Memories of Mary

Tears down my cheek

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 Melbourne

Observer

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

West Hollywood

QANTAS CHIEF FLIES OFF

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

Wally Mariani says farewell

■ After more than 40 years in the airline industry, QANTAS Vice-President for the Americas and Pacific, Wally Mariani, flies off for a welldeserved long holiday.

Wally started his career at the original TAA, which became Australian Airlines, and then QANTAS. Wally was appointed as Executive Vice-President - The Americas and Pacific for QANTAS in January 2000.

His responsibilities covered QANTAS operations in America, Canada, South America, New Zealand and the Pacific.

QANTAS has been flying to the USA and Los Angeles for 54 years and carried more than 1.2 million passengers into LAX (Los Angeles Airport) last year.

QANTAS is the largest non-US carrier to use LAX and has 37 flights each week between LAX and Australia.

To celebrate Wally's exceptional achievement Alan Johnson, Managing Director of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, hosted a farewell luncheon for Wally and his friends Kim Beazley, Ambassador to the United States; Captain John Travolta, Paul Hogan, Simon Wincer, Rod Hardy, Rod Laver, Roy Emerson, Ian Baker-Finch and Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin.

Pictured (top right): Bill Karpiak, General Manager Ramada Plaza; Brad Burlingame, President, Visit West Hollywood; Alan Johnson and the guest of honour, Wally Mariani with a backdrop of Variety's Australian Entertainers of the Century hanging proudly in the Boardroom of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites.

● From left: Bill Karpiak, General Manager, Ramada Plaza; Brad Burlingame, President, Visit West Hollywood; Alan Johnson and the guest of honour, Wally Mariani with a backdrop of Variety's Australian Entertainers of the Century hanging proudly in the Boardroom of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites.

Toni Collette continues to shine

GavinWood

From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd Youth worker Les Twentyman OAM takes on L.A.

Hollywood loses another star

■ Eydie Gorme was best known for Blame It On The Bossa Nova, a top 10 hit from 1963.

But, Eydie Gorme, who died last week at 84, was a singer whose technical prowess and warmth allowed her to cover a wide range of material both with or without her husband and frequent duet partner, Steve Lawrence.

In the 1960s, Gorme and Lawrence enjoyed some popular fame, scoring a top 40 single with I Want To Stay Here and a Grammy Award for their recording of We Got Us .

They achieved even more success with their live act performing in nightclubs and concert venues and on variety programs such as The Carol Burnett Show. They also appeared together on Broadway in the 1968 musical Golden Rainbow.

Glen Campbell’s last farewell

● Eydie Gorme

House of Blues

■ Sunday mornings just got fresh at the House of Blues, 8430 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, 10am to 1pm you can experience Kirk Franklin's Gospel Brunch.

The brunch includes local talent performing traditional and contemporary Gospel songs selected by Kirk Franklin and there is a smokin' hot choir as well as an all you can eat buffet. I know where I will be this Sunday; it could become my new church. Think Sister Act with food. www.houseofblues.com

■ Academy Award-nominated Australian actress Toni Collette, best known for her roles in The Sixth Sense, Little Miss Sunshine and The United States of Tara, is now about to star in a new television series called Hostages on CBS. Playing along side Dylan McDermott, Toni plays Dr Ellen Sanders who has her family held captive by thugs with deadly intentions assassinating the President.

The price of freedom? Murdering her Very Important Patient on the operating table. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer.

● Alan Johnson, Les Twentyman and Gavin Wood at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites ■ Les Twentyman has been on the frontline of heartbreak and hope for over 30 years. As one of Australia's best known youth outreach workers and social campaigners, Les has developed his opinion the hard way - on the street.

I caught up with Les at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites with Managing Director Alan Johnson, and he said that during his time in Los Angeles he would be visiting Homeboys Industries founder, Fr Greg Boyle and the L.A.P.D. and L.A. Sheriffs Department.

The purpose of the trip is to discuss, analyse and implement strategies concerning disconnected youth.

No country can solve the youth crisis alone and he believes that reaching out and joining hands with our international friends is the only way forward.

Les is the founder of the 20th Man Fund, established 1984.

The organisation is dedicated to providing educational, sporting, leadership, emotional and crisis support services to homeless and disadvantaged youth. www.20thman.com.au

Special Holiday Offer from the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites

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

When you are planning your trip to Los Angeles, come and stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Blvd., 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

www.gavinwood.us

■ Glen Campbell, the singer-guitarist, who suffers from Alzheimer's disease, has re-recorded such tracks as By The Time I Get To Phoenix and Gentle On My Mind on his last studio album with emotional resonance.

See You There is the name of the album and it is an emotional tribute to his fans.

Campbell has re-recorded his big hits so they sound like they were recorded yesterday.

I like this album for its honesty and rawness. The disease has progressed to a point where Glen can no longer perform so this album is a final offering from a man who has done it all. www.glencampbellmusic.com

● Glen Campbell

Till next week, Happy Holidays, Gavin Wood

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au Melbourne

Observer

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013 - Page 15

West Hollywood

WILLY GOES FREE ON HOLLYWOOD BLVD

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

Director Simon Wincer parties ■ International movie director and primetime Emmy Award winner, Simon Wincer, arrived in Hollywood to celebrate the 20th anniversary screening at the Historic Graumans Chinese Theatre of Free Willy.

This movie became a critical and commercial smash hit, taking over $200 million worldwide.

Wincer's credits are too many to mention but here are a few of Simon's movies: The Man From Snowy River, Phar Lap, The Light Horseman, The Phantom, Quigley Down Under and more recently The Cup. Simon won a primetime Emmy Award for his outstanding direction of the hugely successful mini-series Lonesome Dove.

The mini series was viewed by 26 million. He also directs the amazing Australian Outback Spectacular on the Gold Coast.

Pictured is Simon Wincer with Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites MD, Alan Johnson.

● From Free Willy

Latest Hall of Fame recipient

● Award winning Director Simon Wincer with Ramada chief Alan Johnson

Special Holiday Offer

KISS come to rock the arena

■ Rock band ‘KISS’,nearing its 40th anniversary, prides itself on appealing to rock and roll fans from every corner of society.

KISS is bringing an Arena Football League team to the Los Angeles area.

To be called L.A. KISS, the team is slated to take the field in 2014.

L.A. KISS is an expansion team in the Arena League and brings Arena football back to L.A. - Orange County region for the first time in five years.

L.A. KISS will use the Honda Center beside Angels Stadium in Anaheim as its home field.

Los Angeles has not seen professional football (gridiron) since two franchises folded before the league cancelled its 2009 season.

Both L.A. based teams left the City after the 1994 season.

You have to congratulate Gene Simmons on his entrepreneurial skills.

I am sure we all remember the very first time KISS rocked Melbourne at VFL Park in Waverley in the early eighties. www.kissonline.com

■ The late film and television actor Peter Falk was honoured with the 2503rd star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame when actors Ed Begley Jnr, Paul Reisner and Dick Van Dyke along with many other friends and colleagues gathered to praise their beloved friend who passed away in 2011.

Peter Falk will be remembered for his most famous role as Lieutenant Columbo for which he received four Emmy Awards. Falk's star is located at 6654 Hollywood Blvd. www.walkoffame.com

GavinWood

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

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

When you are planning your trip to Los Angeles, come and stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Blvd., 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

● The late Peter Falk as Columbo

Our very own Krista Vendy takes on - and talks about - Hollywood

■ I was very fortunate to sit down and have a coffee at Starbucks at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites with the very talented Australian actress, Krista Vendy.

G: Krista, you were very successful in Australia on Television in particular your 2 year run on Neighbours on Network 10 what made you move to America?

K. I have always been a bit ofagypsyandhadwantedtotrymy luck in America for a long time.

G. How hard was it to finally leave?

K. Yes ! I miss my family and friends back home and I remember my agent at the time saying you can stay here and see if you land a good film role that the Americans will take note of, and then go. Or just get there and basically start all over again.

I have always been attracted to the harder road.

G. How hard is it to get into the American way of life?

K. For me, I have a love/dis-

● Robert Redford

● Alan Johnson with Krista Vendy K. It does in some ways for like relationship with the way of life in Los Angeles. The cul- sure. Also I have noticed there ture in so many ways is differ- are a lot of Aussies (actors, dient to Australia. It's actually rectors, writers, producers) from been only the last year where I all different ages, not just the 20 have learned to appreciate Los something coming over. What Angeles. America itself, there drives me more are my goals is a lot to love like Australia. I and what I can contribute to sothink one of the things I like most ciety.

G. What is the ultimate is the positive attitude of the Americans I meet. I have role for you to play?

K. A few roles come to mind. some amazing American One of my favourite films is friends.

G. Many Aussie actors Casablanca; Ingrid Bergman have been successful does is wonderful in it and that type of role with a script like that their success drive you?

www.gavinwood.us

would be pretty amazing. On my dorky side, I am also a little obsessed with Indiana Jones (but not the last film he did) and would love a female version that would be fun as I have a huge fascination with archaeology. A role in a period piece like Pride and Prejudice is probably my ultimate dream.

G. Who are you acting inspirations?

K. Acting inspirations include: Robert Redford, Jimmy Stewart, Humphrey Bogart, Doris Day, Gene Wilder, Grace Kelly, Gary Oldman just to name a few. I am especially inspired with films from the 30s and 40s.

G. Are you happy in America?

K. Yes, most of the time but I miss Ballarat, Melbourne and Metung that's why I am going home for Christmas.

G. You have lots of fans back in Australia; do you have a message for them?

K. Never ever give up your dreams, even if it means you fail many times, just stay focused and listen to your heart.

Krista Vendy is also the Global Ambassador for the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites

Page 16 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

■ It is 36 years since the passing of Bing Crosby but he lives on through his films and recordings.

Most of us followed his life with great interest as he was once described as "the most popular man on the planet”.

Bing portrayed the handsome, easy going wisecracking singer and actor and he was dearly loved.

Harry Lillis Crosby was born in Tacoma, Washington, in 1903 and had six brothers and sisters.

When Harry was only three the family moved to moved to Spokane, Washington.

In 1910 he was given the nickname of ‘Bing’ by a young neighbour and it stuck throughout his life.

Bing attended Gonzaga University and I have seen letters he wrote back to the University after he became rich and famous - he never forgot his peers and was very respectful.

He joined a band and played drums. In 1925 Bing joined a singing group called The Rhythm Boys and he worked with Harry Barris and Al Rinker. They sang with the famous Paul Whiteman Orchestra.

Bing married Dixie Lee in 1930 and they had four sons Gary, Phillip, Dennis and Lindsay.

Bing decided to go solo in 1931 and developed the ‘crooning style’of singing and had hits with songs such as Just One More Chance, Out Of Nowhere and A Million Dollar Baby.

Bing was signed to Brunswick Records and

Whatever Happened To ...

Bing Crosby

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM was also singing on the CBS Radio network.

He became one of the most popular singers throughout the world and everybody wanted to sing like Bing.

His film career began with short features and by the late 1930s Bing Crosby was a major film star.

Some of his films in this period included Anything Goes, Sing You Sinners, We're Not Dressing, Pennies From Heaven and Rhythm On The Range.

In the film Holiday Inn he sang a new song by Irving Berlin which became his biggest selling single.

Bing thought that White Christmas was just another song but he was proven wrong when the

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

‘Needless to say I am a huge fan of the work of Bing Crosby’ public took it to their hearts and it has been reported that it has sold in excess of 50 million singles over the past 70 years. The figure is around 100 million if you count albums and compilations.

Bing won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1944 for his role as Father O'Malley in Going My Way. I loved the ‘Road films’ with Bing Crosby and Bob Hope which began with Road To Singapore in 1940 and ended with The Road To Hong Kong in 1962.

Dixie Lee died in 1952 and five years later Bing walked down the aisle with Kathryn Grant and they had three children from their happy marriage.

Bing Crosby never came to Australia and I cannot recall seeing a film or telemovie on his life.

Over the years he did radio interviews with Norman Banks, Philip Brady and Bert Newton.

In his career Bing Crosby won many awards for his singing and acting. He made the transition into television in the early 1950s after almost 20 years in radio.

My favourite Bing Crosby film is High Society where he teamed with Grace Kelly, Louis Armstrong and Frank Sinatra.

There have been many books written on Bing Crosby and there is not enough space in this column to pay justice to his body of work.

Bing Crosby died suddenly whilst playing golf in Madrid on October 14, 1977. He collapsed from a massive heart attack at the age of 74.

The Herald newspaper in Melbourne devoted its entire front page to the story and several pages within the paper. It was a great shock to the world.

I am a member of The Bing Crosby Society and we meet at the Collingwood Library, 11 Stanton St, Abbotsford.

Old Crosby films are shown and a group of people who share a common interest in Bing Crosby meet for a great social evening. The next meeting will be on October 21 at 7pm - for details contact John Allan on 9755 3365.

Needless to say I am a huge fan of the work of Bing Crosby.

- 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.

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE

■ I have just returned from Echuca, where I spent a night bidding a few friends a fond farewell.

Lachie Pitman, Alan Howe and newfound friend Darren James were off on the latest Variety Club Bash.

Another friend, Wilbur Wilde, is meeting up with them in Kununurra.

The Variety Club has been in existence for years, having been started off by Dick Smith in 1985.

The Bash itself consists of a drive through much of Australia along Outback and obscure dirt roads in pre1975 cars.

These vehicles have all been meticulously prepared for the event, because they will be subjected to some trying travel along these back tracks.

But, fortunately, there is a backup crew with mechanical experts to help out with any mishaps, and get them back on the road again.

I've been on a couple of Bashes with my mate Don Turner in his huge left-hand-drive GMC ute.

The first one was from Bendigo to Alice. This was the nniversary, with thousands of cars and people from all over Australia converging for a huge extravaganza.

The second was up to Cape York a spectacular journey.

The object of every Bash exercise is to raise money for disadvantaged kids, and this has resulted in millions of dollars, so it's a wonderful cause.

■ Then a couple of years ago I went on a Variety ‘trek’ in South Australia - for a dozen people who had raised $20,000 for Variety over that year.

We started in Coober Pedy, and then on to William Creek and Oodnadatta, ending up in Roxby Downs five days later.

This was a fantastic trip.

But they're stirring a different pot now - they want to secede from South Australia.

Current owner Trevor Wright reckons that they're more aligned with the Northern Territory than they are with South Australia, so he wants to join up with them.

There's a nearby spot called Dalhousie Springs, with the largest thermal pools in Australia, and Trevor has been negotiating with the SA government for a few years to allow planes to land there, to no avail.

There's only a 4WD track there, and it's consequently difficult to reach. The NT Chief Minister, Adam Giles, is

The Outback Legend

with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au quite happy to go along with this: "If SA are happy to neglect a significant tourist attraction, we will happily take it off their hands!"

Sounds like a mini-revolution about to happen.

■ With the election looming, there are now accusations and counter-accusations flying around at an ever increasing rate, all over Australia.

And the NT is not exempt from this.

There is some local disquiet over the fact that Mr Rudd was the only PM in 40 years who hadn't visited the Territory, whereas Mr Abbott is a frequent visitor, with "a strong vision for Central Australia", according to Mr Giles.

And then there is the Northern Territory Aboriginal Benefit Account, a taxpayer-funded organisation, which Minister for Veterans Affairs Warren Snowden is accused of raiding of $7m to indulge in a bit of pork barrelling.

But the most interesting aspect of the election is once more concerning Mr Snowden, who is accused of trying to influence voters by offering them

free phone calls from his office. But, to add insult to political injury, he is also giving away free kangaroo tails to his constituents!

■ I was once in Scotty's pub, next to my shop in the Todd Mall in Alice Springs, sharing some conviviality with a mate of mine, Ken Brumby.

We began discussing a couple of issues dear to both of our hearts - sunsets and sunrises, and indulged in some light whimsical chatter - I was for sunsets, and he was for sunrises.

This resulted in my penning a poem shortly thereafter, which I shared with my mate Ted Egan.

He was appropriately amused at this banter, and joined the fray. And we've often discussed the various merits of both ever since.

However it's now come to pass that there is a list of ‘12 Superb Sunset Spots Around the World’, initiated

by CNN writer Raymond Zhang.

U Bein Bridge in Myanmar was first, Kenya's Maasi Mara National Park second.

And, lo and behold, the Rock was third.

Touche, I reckon.

I have watched it dozens of times, and the colours of the sky, and the Rock, are inexorably changing minute by minute as the sun dips quietly to the horizon.

There is something about the chemical makeup of the actual minerals in the rock itself which just love to reflect the sun's rays, and this is spectacular.

It's never a surprise to me that people come from all over the world to witness this spectacular event.

■ It's strange how Mother Nature organizes things.

I have often witnessed, as previously mentioned, various plagues in the past.

I've seen frogs, dragonflies, cockroaches, locusts, mice and moths.

Now, further to a mention a couple weeks ago, feral cats are officially now plaguing Alice.

Statistics are now showing this: 88 cats were caught by rangers in 2011, 84 in 2012, and then, so far this year, 248 have been snared.

That's a huge increase in these nasty, vicious predators.

And the rising costs of sexing hasn't helped much either - $ 625 for a female, and $365 for a male. Of course many of the local domestics find their way into the bush and quickly turn feral.

● William Creek Hotel The council's got 30 traps which they years ago.

Or, we could all follow the example lend out, but they're considering more of local Aborigines around the Rock, now.

Given the damage they continue to where they are regarded as a delicacy, do to our precious wildlife, it's probably and encourage their inclusion on our time to contemplate a few more ideas. barbecue menus.

- Nick Le Souef Maybe a bounty on their heads ‘The Outback Legend’ would work, just like with the dingoes

And The Big Men Fly ● Donna Prince, David Prince and Robert Wightwick rehearse for And the Big Men Fly, opening on August 30 in Sunshine.

Photo: Stephen Andrews ■ Sunshine Community The- Sunshine Community Theatre atre presents And the Big Men Fly say they are honoured to be welcomon August 30, 31, September 6, 7 at ing their special guest.

8pm and on September 1 at 2pm at Set in 1963, this classic footy tale 82 Phoenix St, Sunshine. tells of a young man from the counDirected by Stephen Andrews try who unwittingly becomes a big and featuring a cast of eight local per- VFL star. formers from the western suburbs, Director Stephen Andrews says And the Big Men Fly is timed to hit the show gives an opportunity to “celthe stage during the footy finals. ebrate our two favourite pastimes of Also, 2013 marks 50 years since sport and art.” the very first production premiered at Sunshine Community Melbourne’s Russell Street The- Theatre’s production will be unique atre. in that it will be performed as a live To acknowledge this significant radio play in front of the audience. occasion, playwright Alan Tickets: $15/$12. Bookings: Hopgood is attending the opening 0407 802 165. night performance, and members of - Cheryl Threadgold