Melbourne Observer. 121128A. November 28, 21012. Part A. Pages 1-18

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■ Samantha Ellen-Bound (Myra) and Ben Mitchell (Richard) seated, with Jackie Fraser (Jackie) and Brett Hyland (Sandy), in Noel Coward’s Hay Fever, are playing in Strathmore until December 1. Cheryl Threadgold reviews the show on Page 50.

Photo: KT Pearl

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Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012 - Page 3

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City Desk

Melbourne

Observer

The hottest news about Melbourne’s A-listers

The Buzz Charmingly beguiling Party-time

● John Hay-Mackenzie

● Silvie Paladino ■ Silvie Paladino sang for songster Stephen Sondheim at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Friday.

“He told everyone that the way she sang the song is exactly as it should be sung,” commented showbiz colleague Christie Whelan-Browne on social media.

Melbourne writer Frank Howson was able to meet Sondheim personally, and shake his hand.

■ Rockwiz’s Brian Nankervis will MC The Key Of Sea to be staged at Hamer Hall on Friday, December 14.

ABC Radio host WaleedAly will make a guest appearance at the 8pm show.

Under The Clocks World-class world-first installation

ANGELA’S BOOK

Farewell Annie

● Annie Dawson ■ Annie Dawson fis retiring from the Sofitel On Collins hotel ths week.

Hotel General Manager Clive Scott is hosting a farewell function on Saturday (Dec. 6).

■ John Hay-McKenzie is lending a hand to promoting a show, Souvenir, that will be staged in the new year at Chapel Off Chapel.

The show, featuring the life of New York’s Florence Foster Jenkins, will be staged from February 20 to March 10.

“As news of her terrible singing spread, so did her celebrity,” John says. “The climax was a memorable concert at Carnehie Hall in 1944.

Famously, it sold out in two hours,” John sayts More details on Page 39

● Stephen Rado and Angela Armstrong

■ Mebourne woman Angela Armstrong has partnered with husband Steve Rado in penning a new book, Camping In Style.

Angela is daughter of Ian Armstrong, former 3AW Antiques and Collectables Show panellist. Angela, acity girl and queen of ‘creature comforts’, has her life turned upside down when she met Steve, an Antarctic explorer and foreign aid worker trained in outdoor pursuits.

The new book, after five years’ research is on sale for $29.99, and is being marketed through stores and RACV shops by Melbourne Books.

The book examines issues such as how to pack, recipes, starting out, eating, outdoor kitchens, and a ‘totally wild’ section.

Camping In Style examines shelter, sleep, furnishings,cooking arrangements, and living in style.

The large format paperback, comprising 230 pages, says you no longer need to be a hardy, experienced outdoors person to enjoy camping.

“The beauty of camping today is that you can escape the material world and enjoy a five-star natural location in comfort at low cost,” Angela says.

Camping In Style looks at everything for a well-prepared comfortable camping experience with family and friends that will appeal to those wanting to experience camping for the first time.

■ Avant-garde singer David Byrne (ex-Talking Heads) will team with indiechanteuse St Vincent (also known as Annie Clark) for their stage show at Hamer Hall on January 14-15. The pair have recently released the Love This Giant album. They are booked on a national tour that will also take in the Sydney State Theatre for the Sydney Festival on January 17-18, and Hobart’s Mona Foma on January 20.

Melbourne Moments Award winners

People pars

■ Sian and Peter West, proprietors of the Blue Moon Cottages at Rye, have been named as winners of an accommodation award at the RACV 2012 Victorian Tourism Awards.

The couple operate three self-contained cottages, built in the 1940s, on the Mornington Peninsula. “ We are overjoyed to have won for a second time and are very proud of our achievements. We want to thank our loyal guests who return and have become special friends for their continued support” Sian West said.

The award was presented by State Minister Louise Asher.

■ Jennifer Hansen has been filiming a pilot project at the Grampians over the past week.

■ Derryn Hinch, who leaves 3AW at the end of this week, will be holding a farewell party at Riva, St Kilda, to mark his 15th sacking.

■ Ethiopian singer Mahmoud Ahmed will perform with Ethio-jazz band J Azmaris at The Payhouse on Sunday, January 20.

■ Judith Isherwood, CEO, Arts Centre, announced last night (Tues.) that The Famous Spiegeltent will open on Wednesday, February 6.

● Jennifer Hansen

● Christian Wagstaff with Keith Courtney at the Christmas Fantastic installation at Crown Melbourne ■ Talented Melbourne creative Christian Wagstaff led a team that installed the world-class Christmas Fantastic display at the Crown Melbourne atrium, that was oficially opened on Sunday.

Hosted by Ann Peacock, the function featured performances by The Voice star Rachel Leahcar, Santa’s Rockettes, ballerinas, showgirls, angels, as well as a special appearance from Santa and his Samoyed-led sleigh.

Other features included the unveiling of the first Christmas Fantastic show, roving entertainment, face painting, and photos with Santa .

Christmas Fantastic is a new light, sound and 3D digitally mapped show, depicting the Twelve Days of Christmas via customised effects, choreographed to an original music composition custom recorded for Crown.

Created and engineered in Melbourne, it features the work of animation, lighting and design collectives.

Families and their children are able to peer into these magical baubles and witness the Twelve Days of Christmas through the stereophotographic three-dimensional imagery depicting Christmas dreamscapes.

Guests in the Atrium at Crown will be visually transported into the Twelve Days of Christmas, a world first that is running on 15-minute rotations from 10am to 12 midnight, seven days a week, until Sunday, January 6.

■ Lalor High School students from the 1970s are having a 1980s-style reunion at Briar Hill this Friday (Nov. 30), advises Maree Thompson.

■ Kilmore local radio station, OKR-FM, celebrated first outside broadcast this past month, with Kilmore International School students participating in the program.

■ Comedian Tommy Little and Masterchef’s Dani Venn will host Nova 100’s Summer Breakfast show from Monday (Dec. 3), advises publicist Jane Elliott.

■ Observer columnist John Pasquarelli has gone walkabout to Port Moresby. His column will return when he does.

What’s On In Melbourne

Michael O'Dwyer is holding a fundraising event this Saturday (Dec. 1) ★ from 7pm at The Parlour Studios, 340 Plenty Rd, Preston, to assist in building funds for a Co-Ordinator for community events.

Boxers Frank Ropis and Norm Gent were inducted into the Past And ★ Present Boxers’Association Victorian Branch, at a function held at Darebin RSL, Preston, on Sunday (Nov. 25).

Susan Murray has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of ★Adelphi Suicide Prevention Australia.

Players Theatre Company is staging the Aladdin And His ★ Wonderful Lamp pantomime at Labassa, 2 Manor Gr, Caulfield, for six peformances starting Saturday (Dec. 1).

Page 4 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012

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Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

WROK ON WITH WENDY STAPLETON

■ I first met Wendy in 2009 on the Northcote Town Hall dance floor during the Channel 31 TV night of nights - The Antenna Awards.

Wendy and I tore up the dance floor and I eventually wore her down, convincing her to feature in a zany column as the new love interest of the Docklands roving costumed character Kevin Water Rat. Wendy was at the AntennaAwards that night as the host of the popular music program Wrokdown, currently televised on Channel 31.

Wendy's 'laid-back' approach is part of the show's appeal and long running success by interviewing many of her friends who drop in for a chat; being some of Australia's music legends from the 60s and 70s including the likes of Keith Potger, Bob Starkie, Brian Cadd, Ronnie Charles, Jim Keays, Judith Durum, Debra Byrne, Russell Morris and the late and her dear friend Darryl Cotton.

In 2012, Wendy is as busy as ever with regular performances around Melbourne.

Wendy's online presence is continually growing with close to 2500 Facebook friends and her management has even posted a coffee invitation with Wendy on the internet.

I took up the invitation following her performance in her trio band with her husband Paul Norton and Michael Cristiano; where they perform every second Sunday afternoon at the Emerald Hotel on Clarendon St in South

Rockett Porch Thoughts Melbourne. Laid back and feeling quite relaxed with Wendy, I took the opportunity to ask some questions that I hope have never been asked of her before for this Porch Thought chat over coffee.

What is one question that journalists typically ask you during an interview that you hope I don't ask today?

"Are you still singing anywhere Wendy?" I know you won't ask that question Mark because you know where I sing.

I have always enjoyed your sense of humour and down-to-earth personality that your fans around the world have come to admire and respect as a star of the stage, screen and TV. Are you always this laid back?

Not always. It takes a while and if I'm backed into a corner I fire up.

Sometimes I can't believe what I've done and spend the next few days mortified at my behaviour. It's the Irish-Catholic thing. It's probably not a good time to mention the IrishCatholic thing!

Many have described watching you perform at the Emerald being comparable to having one of

Off The Porch Thought For The Day Rachael Leahcar Singer/Songwriter “I am really looking forward to performing at the Aurora Christmas Festival on Sunday. I will be singing some of my favourite songs as well as a two popular Christmas songs with Santa.

“I have recently toured with Delta, and I'm currently recording my second album. 2012 has been a dream year for me and I'm looking forward to these celebrations." See Page 63.

Australia's musical greats performing in their lounge room. As a performer, why do enjoy performing at venues such as the Emerald?

Well exactly for that reason. The people are wonderful and warm and you really do feel as though you are in someone's lounge. Hardimans Hotel in Kensington has the same feel. We have been playing there for over 12 years.

What was your favourite song that you performed this afternoon why?

The three of us take it in turns performing songs and we all back each other. I sing a lot of Dusty Springfield songs. Dusty is my favourite blonde. We do some originals and choose eclectic covers too.

Sonny and Cher performed together as did Bert and Patti Newton, what's it like for performing with your husband on a regular basis?

That's a funny comparison!

Sonny and Cher I understand, but Bert and Patti? Actually I know Bert and Patti and they're an absolutely fantastic couple.

I think it's best if you forget you're married; maybe we're not even married. See I forget already. Actually we are celebrating our 25th anniversary on the 30th of this month.

I'm telling you this because I'll show Paul this interview and he might actually remember our anniversary.

If you and Paul have creative 'disputes', how are they usually resolved?

Over a really big glass of red wine.

On the topic of Paul, he had the greatest hair in the late 80s arguably the best in the Mushroom stable. Can you remember what went through your mind when you first ran your fingers through it?

I thought, wow this guy's hair feels just like mine; (think tortured).

I think we're meant to be together.

Looking at some of the comments on your Facebook page, how do you feel reading comments such as, 'Hey Darlin, I'm gonna dance with my 12 YO daughter to this tonight! Love it,' - referring to your 80s song - Your Place Or Mine?

I say get a date your own age.

Don't traumatise your kid!

As the host of Wrokdown, you re-tell the history of the Australian

● Wendy Stapleton music industry told by our singers, What was going through your songwriters, musicians and indus- mind moments before you took to try movers and shakers. Who was the stage to celebrate the life of your one memorable interview? mate Darryl Cotton at his tribute I always find something different concert in September? interviewing people as opposed to Darryl's sudden passing really hit reading about them. People you imag- me hard and I still can't believe it. ined are very serious turn out to be Just before I went on stage I was very funny or vice versa. No one is thinking, 'where the *&%$ is Marty ever boring. I really enjoyed inter- Monster?' viewing Judith Durham as there is He couldn't see the band wasn't so much more to her life than people ready behind him; he introduced me ever knew about. and walked off stage. I couldn't go If the interview was turned on on because I would have been standduring the show, what would you ing there with nothing to do. say your career highlight would be?

Sorry Wendy, I just have to ask, Everything. Wendy and The apart from the Emerald Hotel, are Rocketts, theatre (particularly The you still singing anywhere else?

Dusty Springfield Story) and some (Refer to question one).

TV shows such as Neighbours and We have regular gigs are at Blue Heelers. I've been an incred- Hardimans Hotel Kensington, The ibly lucky girl. My career has varied Ivy Lounge Olinda, Coast and I'm still hanging around. I think Blairgowrie, Springvale RSL and diversifying is important. I am also a Maroondah Sports Club. freelance interviewer for The NaI'm also performing Girls Girls tional Film and Sound Archives and Girls with Debra Byrne and Nikki I love that.

Nichols. I perform with Ash and What advice can you offer any- Brian Robinson and Peter Valenone wanting to enter the showbiz tine. Occasionally I work with industry?

Wilbur Wilde.

Take every bit of advice you're What is your Porch Thought of given then work it out yourself. At The Day? the end of the day you have to be Enjoy it while you can! comfortable with yourself. Some - Mark Richardson people are good at business and oth- ■ For more details for Wendy's ers are not. Some people can be tough gigs visit www.wendystapleton.com. and others are weak. If you can't do au and although she admits to bewhat's required then hire someone ing slack at replying on Facebook, to do it for you. Oh, if only I took my she would love to keep you updated own advice! on her whirlwind life.

Aurora Christmas Festival - See Page 63

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012 - Page 5

Showbiz News

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

2013 SET FOR HEROIC YEAR Observer AT MELBOURNE ARTS CENTRE In This 64-Page Edition

Huge 12 months planned

● Super Speedy Sound Shed

BLAZE THE SHOW

■ The Arts Centre 2013 program includes the electrifying streetdance production Blaze The Show.

Other performers to hit the stage will be Human Nature who are returning for this Christmas for concerts with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, trumpet virtuoso James Morrison, and the 2013 season of Morning Melodies.

The exceptional Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain will perform twisted covers of songs of Lady Gaga, Adele, Junior Walker, Black Sabbath and Michael Jackson.

Also taking the stage are the Victorian Opera Gala, the Australian Pops Orchestra which will play in the New Year, and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.

Hamer Hall is home to the new Riverside Live, a new program of events running every Thursday and Friday lunchtimes, and Friday and Saturday evenings, including free concerts, dance workshops and public debates. ● Pictured (at left): The Man Who Planted Trees

■ Epic tales of heroes and heroines abound in the Arts Centre Melbourne 2013 program announced last night (Tues.) by CEO Judith Isherwod.

The action begins as West End and Broadway hit War Horse is staged for its Australian premiere.

Katie Noonan, described as ab “Australian goddess”, and burlesque queen Imogen Kelly, will star in The Famous Spiegeltent, and a British comedy Oe Man, Two Guvnors will be presented.

Einstein On The Beach - by Robert Wilson, Philip Glass and Lucinda Childs - will be presented, followed by the hair-raising Valkyries in the Melbourne Ring Cycle.

Costumes and memorabilia of Geofrey Rush, Dame Nellie Melba, Dame Joan Sutherland and Kylie Minogue will go on display at the Arts Centre next year, and popular shows Puss In Boots and Miss Orphelia will be staged.

“With our program ranging from masterpieces of epic proportions to intimate one-man shows, Australian and international heroes and heroines of the performing arts will be on-stage at Arts Centre Melbourne throughout the year,” Ms Isherwood told last night’s gathering.

“Our new approach to programming maximises the uyse of our magnificent public buildings and the sheer breadth of our action-packed 2013 program of events will, I hope, lure people away from their screens to enjoy the life-changing experience of witnessing great artists doing incredible things live on stage.”

The World Orchestra Series will be on stage in November next year. The Arts Centre will be closed only on Christmas Day 2013 in a jam-packed program.

The Summer program includes event at the Arts Centre, and at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. The Music Bowl will host events including Gotye, Carols By Candlelight, Summerdayze, Wezer,Australia Day Concerts, a special concert from Opera Australia and the Sidney Myer Free Concerts with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

The Fairfax Studio wil feature the one-man show Leo; D’Irque and Fian; Oh Suivant and Constellations.

The Playhouse Theatre will host Justine Clarke’s Pop Up Tour, Giggle and Hooit, The Other Places and Songs For Nobodies.

The Arts Centre will present War Horse, and an accompanying Staging War Horse exhibition will be staged with contemporary puppetry.

City Desk: A-Listers at work ................. Page 3 ShowBiz Social Club: Final 2012 photos .. Page 6 News: Lawyer’s conduct examined ......... Page 9 Di Rolle: Preparing my Santa list .......... Page 10 Local: Derryn hands out bikes to kids .. Page 12 Victoria Pictorial: Nostalgia photos ....... Page 15 Yvonne Lawrence: Life and style .......... Page 25 Nick Le Souef: Outback Legend ........... Page 26 Observer Classic Books: Les Mis ......... Page 27 Travel and Wine: David Ellis reports ...... Page 40 Radio: Melbourne’s top daytime DJ ...... Page 49 TV, Radio Local Theatre Movies, DVDs The Arts

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

High on ‘ice: Court ■ A Corio man was high on ice when he bashed his former partner, leaving her battered and bruised, Geelong Magistrates' Court has heard.

The court was told Robert Benzie "just snapped" after his former partner refused an invitation to go for a drive with him He was fined $2000 and placed on a bond, reports the Geelong Advertiser.

More accountability ■ Banksia Securities investor Barry Taylor has called for more transparency from receivers appointed to the failed non-bank lender.

The Maiden Gully resident said he was owed $430,000 from the Banksia collapse and had no idea how much money he would get back, reports the Bendigo Advertiser.

‘Years of chatting’ ■ A Sebastopol man spent up to three years chatting to a girl online and through text messages before he stole her away from her parents and took her to South Australia, a court has heard.

Dean Patrick James, 37, appeared in the County Court in Ballarat yesterday (Tues.) where he pleaded guilty to charges of possessing child pornography, child stealing and theft, reports the Ballarat Courier.

Weather Forecast ■ Partly cloudy. Winds south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light in the morning.

Min 16. Max 29

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 SUMMER REPLACEMENT TV SHOWS 5. Grant Tinkler hosting The Price Is Wrong.

4. Angelina Jolie co-compering with a plumber, Beauty And The Leak.

3. Mr Whippy starring opposite Jennifer Hawkins in The Cold And The Beautiful.

2. Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott in The Odd Couple.

1. Ellen Degeneres, a Dutchman and Richard Wilkins starring in a sitcom called The Dyke Van Dick Show.

Page 6 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Final 2012 night for ShowBiz Club The ShowBiz Social Club held its final night for 2012 on Monday (Nov. 26) at the Bentleigh Club.

Photos: Gigi Hellmuth

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People Melbourne

Send news to editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

Fax: 1-800 231 312

● The ShowBiz Social Club presented its 2012 Bravo Award Winners for Outstanding Contribution to the Club at its meeting on Monday night (Nov. 26) to secretary Bill and Glenyce Leithhead, committee member

● Pianist John Curtis, drummer Howard Rowe and double bass player David Taylor

● Magician Don Crawford and saxphonist Bob Casley

● Vocalist Joliane Pasternak

● Vocalist and Pianist Ray Haynes

● Drummer Howard Rowe

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012 - Page 7

ROCKPORT SHOES FURTHER SCOOP PURCHASE ON RUNOUT LINES MEN’S & WOMEN’S NOW ALL ONE PRICE

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PAUL MICHAEL SHOES 67 Hamilton Place, Mt Waverley

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Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012 - Page 9

Court Rounds

LAWYER’S PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT Give Me Excess Of It

Travel Extra ■ In his continuing search for the more weird, wacky and wondrous in the world of travel, David Ellis says that a beachcombing couple in New Zealand has miraculously saved a note in a bottle that’s been floating goodness-only-knowswhere for the past three-quarters of a century…

Geoff Flood and Leanne McAlees found the bottle on Ninety Mile Beach in the country’s far north earlier this month, and most amazing was that the note was still dry and readable even though the bottle’s cork had been pushed back inside the bottle.

“Another high tide and it could have been swamped and the note inside ruined and lost forever,” said Mr Flood.

Dated March 17, 1936 – that’s 76 years ago – the note was written on paper with a P&O company logo and a picture of its liner, SS Strathnaver that sailed between the UK and Australia.

It was signed H.E. Hillbrick, and asked that if found it be forwarded, with details of where found and when, to Mr Hillbrick at an address in Leederville, Western Australia.

And although Mr Hillbrick has long since departed this world, Mr Flood tracked down a distant member of Herbert Ernest Hillbrick who said he was “very excited” about the find.

- David Ellis

James Bond Trivia Quiz

■ Victorian lawyer Wiliam Hamish McGregor has been found guilty of one charge of professional misconduct, after an action was brought by Legal Services Commissioner Michael McGravie.

The matter was heard by Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Senior Member Jonathan Smithers.

The parties are to contact the Tribunal to incicate what steps they propose to determine what orders should be made arising out of the finding.

Mr Smithers heard that the solicitor attempted to help a mother to transfer a $160,000 house property to her mentally disabled son, without incurring an obligation to pay stamp duty, McGregor prepared a Transfer ofr land, with the consideration referred to as ‘gift’, but unexpectedly the State Revenue Office assessed this as dutiable.

The solicitor created a $160,000 round-robin , being passed from the firm’s trust account, through the bank accounts of the mother and the son, then back to the legal firm’s trust account.

The round-robin did not go to plan and a trust account deficiency was created for 10-12 days before it was rectified.

Stamp duty had to be paid, the solicitor had to pay a penalty, and interest to the SRO. McGregor has practised in the Ballarat area for more than 50 years. The Linton propertywas owned by Annette Gregiulo who wanted to transfer it to her son Stuart, who has a mental disability

MELBOURNE THUNDERSTRUCK ■ Melbourne today continues the clean-up after Tuesday morning’s thunderstorms in which property was damged across the metropolitan area.

More than 2000 lightning strikes created havoc across all suburbs, including problems across Melbourne’s public transport system.

The State Emergency Service was inundated with calls from residents requesting assistance with damage caused to their houses by the storms.

At Thornbury, lightning lifted a roof of a house, causing damage assessed at more than $40,000.

Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

■ What do you give a music-loving friend who simply doesn't seem to need any more CDs to add to their overwhelming collection?

Give Me Excess Of It, eminent Australian music guru Richard Gill's memoir might solve this dilemma nicely.

Known for his passion for classical music and dedication to bringing it to as wide an audience as possible, this founding father of Victorian Opera has many tales to tell from a much more varied life than you might have thought.

Gill wasn't born with a musical silver spoon in his mouth, but grew up in Sydney's western suburbs and worked in retail jobs and then high school music teaching before he started to ascend to the heights of classical music stardom.

While he has always been serious about his music, reaching a huge general public audience by being prepared to laugh at himself and others in the hit ABC Television program Spicks and Specks was a great way of getting non-classical music fans to get to know him and what he stood for.

And I know from personal experience that during Richard Gill's tenure as Music Director there are hundreds of Victorian youngsters who have had the world of opera open up to them, thanks to his championship of the Victorian Youth Opera.

Those young singers who decided not to continue their singing at a professional level usually turned into avid opera goers, thanks to Gill's passion for his cause of bringing opera to everyone.

Give Me Excess Of It traces Gill's life from school days to the heights and low points of conducting and directing an opera company. Like the man himself, it's warm, funny, opinionated and always full of the love of music.

"This book is about the musician's journey as I have experienced it: the sublime and the ridiculous: the happy chances and the rude awakenings: the life-changing encounters with true genius, and the strong friendships with other singers and players who, like myself, were merely mortal." Gill said.

Give Me Excess Of It' by Richard Gill is published by Pan Macmillan and retails for $49.99.

● Richard Gill

‘Cavalia’ in Melb.

■ Cavalia: A Magical Encounter Between Human and Horse, an innovative multi-media and multi-disciplinary production created by Normand Latourelle, one of the co-founders of famed Cirque du Soleil, has announced that it tour Melbourne next year.

Cavalia will open on August 7, at the Docklands.

Tickets for Cavalia, one of the world's most critically acclaimed shows, will go on sale today, (Wed., Nov., 28), online at www.cavalia. com.au or by calling 1800-765-955.

Prior to the Sydney and Melbourne seasons, Cavalia will play in Brisbane from March 6 under the company’s famed White Big Top in the parking lot adjacent to DFO at Brisbane Airport. Tickets for the Brisbane season are already available online and by phone.

● George Lazenby as James Bond ■ James Sherlock writes: With the smash success of the sensational and outstanding new James Bond blockbuster Skyfall, breaking Bond box office records around the world, here is your chance to test your knowledge on the classic long running series of James Bond films in its 50th anniversary year.

It is important to note that the questions below do not include the two rogue James Bond productions Never Say Never Again and the 1967 comedy Casino Royale, so now is the time to see how much you know about the world's most famous secret agent, enjoy!

1: Who were the first four people to portray James Bond 007?

2: In which two James Bond films does 007's nemesis Auric Goldfinger appear?

3: Who has portrayed James Bond 007 three times?

4: Which character in a James Bond movie went on to appear in a popular TV series?

5: Which actor and film was an inspiration for James Bond's on-screen persona?

6: What is the name of the legendary filmmaker who assisted uncredited on a James Bond film?

7: What is the name of the Australian actor chosen to portray James Bond but was dropped only hours before filming was due to begin?

8: The letter for James Bond 007 gadget man ‘Q’ is an abbreviation for which word?

9: James Bond's Aston Martin DB5 is the most famous car in the world, what does the DB stand for in the DB5 symbol?

10: What is the licence plate number of James Bond 007's Aston Martin DB5 as seen in Goldfinger, Thunderball and Skyfall?

11: In which James Bond book does author Ian Fleming reveal James Bond's Scottish heritage?

12: What is the name of the James Bond film and book that was inspired by actual true events?

13: What is the last 007 film to officially feature James Bond 007 nemesis Ernst Stavro Blofeld?

14: What is the real name of 007 gadget man ‘Q’ as played by Desmond Llewelyn?

15: What is the name of the fictitious company the james Bond uses as a front?

16: What is the name of Bond villain Emilio Largo's boat in Thunderball?

17: Name three stars from the classic 1960s TV series The Avengers that went on to co-star in a James Bond film?

18: What was the first James Bond song to be nominated for an Academy Award?

19: What is the name of the song in On Her Majesty's Secret Service?

20: Shirley Bassey sang the title songs for which three James Bond films?

21: What is the name of the only official Sean Connery Bond film that does not end at sea?

22: What is the first Bond film in which he does not say the classic line "Bond, James Bond"?

23: What is the name of the first Bond film to feature Judi Dench as ‘M’?

24: Name the only two James Bond actors not born in the United Kingdom?

25: What is the name of the legendary children's author who wrote the screenplay for You Only Live Twice.

26: Bond villain Ernst Stravo Blofeld is seen fully for the first time in which film? Turn To Page 62

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012

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To

Milos at the Recital Centre

Di Christmas shopping

● Santa Claus ■ I am discovering new shops in my area all the time.

With the opening of Vogue Plaza in Chapel St, I have tended to neglect the rest of the area which was very apparent when during my walk I rediscovered the Como Shopping Centre.

Not only has the Chocolate Shop got new owners Chris and Helen, I discovered to my absolute surprise a new shop where I have left a list for Santa for Christmas presents!

Raine & Humble is right beside the Japanese Take Away and opposite the Chocolate Shop..

It was just like Christmas, walking into Raine & Humble and I managed to tick Santa’s list for everyone’s presents this year - and even included a couple for me!

Barry Manilow here?

■ My Christmas tree is up. My dance card for the next few weeks is full, Russell Brand is in town next week on Friday (Dec. 7).

Ann Peacock’s fabulous Women In Media lunch is being held at Crown the same week.

There are a couple of trips to Sydney and then home for Christmas, and lots of work to keep me happy in between it all.

There is news for Barry Manilow fans hot off the presses ... and I have direct access to him as I am his Australian publicist.

His latest single, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, just became Barry’s 50th Top 40 hit! No stopping him!

He is currently putting on a series of concerts at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert, a suburb of the greater Palm Springs area. It will raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for charity. It begins on December 11 and continues until December 16.

The Gift of Love 11 concert series will honour 27 local charities each night.

Barry will perform his hit songs in addition to special songs from his vast catalogue of holiday favourites! He is a kind generous man.

And finally the big news on Barry …

Manilow on Broadway! will be on Broadway starting January 18!

My mission for 2013 is to get Barry here to Oz for concerts…. that is on my Santa list!

I love my job!

■ Classical guitar sensation Milos Karadaglic is set to give his first public performance in Melbourne at the Recital Centre on Saturday (Dec. 1).

The 8pm performance will include a diverse selection of music from around the world.

Milos In Concert is part of Milos’ first public Australian tour, with performances also taking place in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

A fast rising star on the international classical music scene, he is being hailed by critics and fans for his brilliant technique and transcendent musicality.

Milos’ debut album, Mediterraneo (or The Guitar), recently hit number one on the United Kingdom, United States and Australian classical charts, and also earned him his first gold disc in Hong Kong.

Now, on the back of two Gramophone awards in 2011 (Young Artist of the Year and the coveted Specialist Classical Chart Award for Mediterraneo), this talented 29-year-old from Montenegro has released his second CD, Latino (June 2012), on the prestigious Deutsche Gramophone label. This sees him become the first guitarist to be signed to the prominent label in many years.

To coincide with the album release, Milos will perform five concerts in Australia, which will feature works by Bach, Barrios, VillaLobos, Albeniz, Theodorakis and Domeniconi.

- Contributed

For GOING TO A GARDEN PARTY

■ There is something about the idea of a Garden Party that really intrigues me.

They are very romantic, with big hats, desk chairs, strawberries, champagne, fine china and of course Ricky Nelson’s song from 1972, Garden Party.

It peaked on Billboard charts at No 6 in 1972.

The song was inspired by an experience he had at a Madison Square Garden concert.

I met him once, when he came and appeared on The Don Lane Show. He was so handsome and so shy.

Ricky was one of the shyest people I have ever met.

He wrote good songs though, and Garden Party was certainly a song to remember.

People came from miles around, everyone was there, Yoko bought her walrus, there was magic in the air, ‘n’ over in the corner, much to my surprise, Mr Hughes hid in Dylan’s shoes wearing his disguise.

Well, Melbourne Recital Centre introduces The Garden Party 2013, a new outdoor music venue in the heart of Melbourne’s Southbank from January 25-February 17.

Well known for its exceptional quality of music programming, Melbourne Recital Centre is launching the Garden Party, as part of its programming The philosophy is to encompass a diverse range of genres.

The Garden Party will be a vibrant music venue conveniently located in the Melbourne Arts Precinct.

Transforming a va-

with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE

from this week. Visit thegardenparty.info for breaking news and details of the line-up acts are announced.

Click like on facebook.com/ GardenPartySouth bank

Al wins

● Rick Nelson “We know there is cant site behind Melbourne Recital a hunger for great muCentre into a relaxed, sic and outdoor vennew music venue for ues during summer and this extension to four weekends.

The Garden Party our programming will will present a host of feed this.”

Located at the corhigh calibre local and international artists ner of Southbank Blvd across the indie music and Sturt St, just behind the Centre, the scene.

It will feature artists site will come alive such as The Bam- with luscious lawns, boos, Art of Sleeping, relaxed seating and Husky, Jonti, Jens crowd-winning food Lekman, Van She, pop-ups and beverage Mia Dyson, The Cac- bars.

Accommodating tus Channel, Softwar, Kashmere Stage up to 1000 visitors per Band, Gossling, session, music lovers Tinpan Orange, The can immerse themTrouble with Temp- selves in the comfortleton and many more, able surrounds while The Garden Party soaking up the atmoat will be the must-visit sphere festival venue for sum- Melbourne’s hottest mer nights in the city. new venue.

The Garden Party Speaking on the launch of the new will take place each venue, Melbourne Friday and Saturday Recital Centre Direc- evening from 5pmtor of Programming 11:30pm and Sunday Kirsten Siddle said afternoon from 2pm “We are thrilled to in- 9pm.

Tickets to The troduce The Garden Party and to be able to Garden Party sesextend our love of sions are from $35 good music and excep- with booking fee in tional bands to every- advance through www.moshtix.com.au one.

■ One of the things I was very pleased to hear about this week was that the Priscilla producer was awarded for his lifetime achievement in film by the Australian Academy.

One of Australia’s more revered producers, Al Clark, was announced as the recipient of the nation’s highest screen accolade – the AACTARaymond Longford Award.

I remember well the cinema named after him in Toorak Road, South Yarra With a film making career spanning three decades, Clark has produced or executive produced 19 feature films including some of Australia’s most iconic, celebrated and internationally significant cinema from

Chopper through to The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.

In addition to his outstanding skill in production, Clark is also lauded for his skill in identifying new talent, launching the careers of many leading Australian screen practitioners and performers.

Clark exec produced the first feature film to star Russell Crowe, The Crossing.

He also produced the first Australian feature film to star Ryan Kwanten, Red Hill, and produced director John Polson’s first feature film, Siam Sunset.

First presented in 1968, the AACTA Raymond Longford Award is the highest accolade that the Australian Academy can bestow upon an individual.

Named in honour of the great Australian film pioneer, Raymond Longford, the Award recognises a person who has made a truly outstanding contribution to the enrichment of Aust-

● Al Clark

alia’s screen environment and culture.

Peter Weir, Geoffrey Rush, Fred Schepisi, Ken G. Hall, Tim Burstall, Charles ‘Bud’ Tingwell, Jack Thompson, Jan Chapman, David Stratton and Don McAlpine are just some of the Australian screen icons bestowed this prestigious Award.

Upon being told of the Award, Al Clark said: “With a love of films that always transcends the frustrations of getting them made, I’ve tried to choose distinctive projects.

“To navigate them soundly, to find gifted people to work with, and to bring out the best in their considerable talents.

“I’m grateful to AACTA for this great recognition and for everything it represents.”

The AACTA Raymond Longford Award will be presented to Al Clark at the 2nd AACTA Awards Luncheon, presented by Deluxe, in Sydney in January.

“Al’s unique view of the world, film and the arts has been a great inspiration for me. His ability to recall any moment from any movie or book, analyse its value and express it succinctly is a rare quality.

“He has taught me and many other actors the value of the value of truth in performance as well as truth in oneself.

“He is an educator and has opened my eyes to many filmmakers and styles just through his sheer enthusiasm for the medium. He’s very generous with his wisdom,” said Guy Pearce.

Pretty impressive.

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Observer

Ash On Wednesday

TURN BACK HANDS OF TIME

Our Doors are Open! Freemasons Derryn Hinch, and Variety Bikes4Kids

Bringing smiles to Victorian children this Christmas

● Derryn Hinch, Freemasons Victoria Grand Master Bob Jones and Variety Victoria Chairman Doug Christie, with happy bicycle recipients at the launch of Variety Bikes4Kids 2012 Children across Melbourne are smiling a little brighter in the lead-up to Christmas, thanks to Freemasons Victoria's support of Variety's Bikes4Kids program.

At Dallas Brooks Centre, Freemasons Victoria again presented $20,000 (around 100 bikes) to Doug Christie, CEO of Variety.

Freemasons Victoria Grand Master, Bob Jones, says a child's bicycle is more than a toy.

'Really, for children, your bike is something for you to be proud of, to take care of. Who doesn't remember the excitement of getting their first bike?

I can still remember pushing my first bike up the hill near our house and then riding it as fast as I could to the bottom,' he said.

'Freemasons are proud to partner with Variety for this project, providing hundreds of children with a privilege that many of us may have taken for granted,' Mr Jones says.

Freemasons Victoria, through the Freemasons Victoria Board of Benevolence, has provided $75,000 to Bikes4Kids over the past five years.

At last week's launch, Board of Benevolence President, Frank Fordyce said the program was one very close to his heart, having initiated Freemasons Victoria's contact five years ago.

This year, local police also got involved, following an invitation from Freemasons Victoria to nominate some of the children to receive bikes.

Victoria Police Yarra Youth Resource Officer L/S/C Tony Brewin brought children from St Joseph's Primary School in Collingwood as part of their Bike2Go program, providing local children with their first bicycle and the training to ride it safely.

'Having Freemasons provide the bikes means that we can run the program for another year,' said Mr Brewin. 'The program makes sure that once the kids are out on the road, they're much safer and more aware as road users.'

At the launch, program ambassador and 'Human Headline' Derryn Hinch recognised Freemasons Victoria as, 'the stalwart of this program.

“It almost didn't happen this year,' he said to the parents and children who had come to receive a bike they would otherwise not have enjoyed.

'I knew that I could rely on the support of Freemasons Victoria and that really gave me the push to make sure it went ahead.'

Mr Hinch vowed to continue his involvement in Bikes4Kids, in whatever form he could.

To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, attend upcoming public events, or to take a tour of the Masonic Centre, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au or 'Like' our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ freemasonsvic for the most up to date information.

■ Hobart Baroque is a brand new event celebrating the music of the 17th and 18th centuries.

Until relatively recently performances of music from this period were rare.

Even as late as a decade ago Handel had not emerged on opera stages around the world as a ‘marketable’ composer.

Now performances of his operas are regular fare, while the works of Haydn, Cavalli, Vivaldi, Rameau, Charpentier and Monteverdi are being rediscovered and performed to acclaim.

Simultaneously, orchestral music of this period has enjoyed equal popularity and generated hundreds of specialist ensembles.

To date, there has been no festival dedicated specifically to baroque music. That honour falls to Tasmania’s capital, Hobart.

Long Shots

tly, for such a festival, and now, for my co-producer Jarrod Carland and I, the dream is about to become a reality”, says Festival Director, Leo Schofield.

On April 12 the Royal will perform at the Royal - a production from the Linbury Studio Theatre at the Royal Opera House in London’s Covent Garden will debut at the Royal in Hobart - the first time the Royal Opera has ever presented a production in Australia.

Giving back editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au

with Ash Long, Editor “For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”

Theatre Royal ■ April 12 sees the inauguration of Hobart Baroque, nine days of exceptional performances by international and local musicians.

The generator of this unique event is the existence of a superb small Georgian theatre in the heart of Hobart, the historic Theatre Royal.

Built in 1834, this is the oldest surviving theatre of its type in the Southern Hemisphere, one whose intimacy and splendid acoustics make it the perfect venue for performances of opera and recitals.

Its charms were recognised as long ago as 1946 when Sir Laurence Olivier pleaded for its retention at a time when war or developers led to the demolition of many of London’s historic theatres.

● Sir Laurence Olivier house attached to the royal by the Australian Opera palace of Drottningholm as part of our Bicentennial Celebrations. in Stockholm.

“I was struck by the His vision foundered but now his, Olivier’s and charm, intimacy and sumany other Tasmanians perb acoustic of this gem and mainlander’s dream of Georgian architecture of a festival in this won- and ever since I have derful venue is about to be dreamed of directing a small specialist music realised.

■ Four decades later the “Back in 1988 I at- festival with this unique celebrated Swedish opera tended my first event at building at its heart. director, Goran Jar- Hobart’s historic .

“Over the past eight veveldt, then working “It was a performance years I have lobbied, alregularly and memorably of Don Giovanni, given beit intermittently and subwith Opera Australia, attempted to form the Van The Melbourne Observer is printed by Streamline Press, Johnston St, Fitzroy, for the publisher, Ash Long, Diemen’s Land Opera 155 for Local Media Pty Ltd, ABN 67 096 680 063, of the Company. registered office, 30 Glen Gully Road, Eltham, Jarveveldt saw the Distributed by All Day Distribution.

Hobart theatre as an an- Responsibility for election and referendum comment is tipodean equivalent of the accepted by the Editor, Ash Long. beautiful small opera Copyright © 2012, Local Media Pty Ltd

Theatre Royal

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT COURT REPORTS Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Melbourne Observer shall in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any person or body due to information provided. The information is provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content. No inference of a party’s guilt or innocence should be made by publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.

■ Hobart Baroque will open with an acclaimed production by Rodula Gaitanou of a rare work

by Joseph Haydn, premiered in 1776 at his great patron, Prince Esterhazy’s palace at Esterhaza in Hungary.

Entitled, somewhat ironically, L’isola disabitata, or The Uninhabited Island, this intimate chamber opera was composed for four remarkable young virtuosic singers and an orchestra of 20 players, specially assembled, conducted by Oliver Gooch who has made his career at Covent Garden.

L’isola disabitata will feature Madeleine Pierard, Anna Devin, Ed Lyon and Changhan Lim, directed by Rodula Gaitanou.

Sir Antonio Pappano, Music Director of the Royal Opera said, “On behalf of everyone here at the Opera House, I’m so thrilled that we’ve been invited to open the festival with L’isola disabitata.

“This opportunity is extremely important for us to give something back to Australia – a country that has given us so many wonderful artists. I have had the honour of working with Dame Joan Sutherland and Sir Charles Mackerras on many occasions – and now we’re giving something back.”

Aussies participate

■ Many Australians will also participate in the first Hobart Baroque.

Sydney’s Pinchgut Opera, which pioneered productions of early operas in Sydney, last year premiered Vivaldi’s opera Griselda, featuring David Hansen, a sensational young Australian counter tenor who has made his mark in Europe.

David returns to Australia for a one-off recital with some of Australia's fine musicians.

The much-admired Hobart-based soprano, Jane Edwards will perform music by women composers of the baroque era and the fast-rising Melbourne-based baroque trio, Latitude 37, will feature in two events.

And two unique events at MONA, MONACELLO and MONAORGANISM, will showcase early music in the ultramodern environment of the magnetic Museum of Old and New Art. Hobart Baroque is supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania and by businessman and philanthropist, Graeme Wood .

The program has been especially planned to attract interstate visitors, who can enjoy several of the events as well as experiencing Hobart’s history, its remarkable restaurants and food and unique atmosphere, all of which have contributed to a growing reputation as one of the world’s most interesting small cities.

If, as is often argued, festivals work best in compact, liveable cities where the visitor can enjoy not only the art but the architecture and the lifestyle, then Hobart seemed the obvious venue for Hobart Baroque.

■ Thanks to Julie Cavanagh for help with this report.

Observer Treasury Thought For The Week

■ “My opinions may have changed, but not the fact that I am right.”

Observer Curmudgeon

■ “Animals share with us the privilege of having a soul.”

- Pythagoras

Text For The Week ■ “Wht tarry the wheels of his chariot?”

Free reader ads are available in the Melbourne Trader section of the ‘Melbourne Observer’

- Judges

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 28, 2012 - Page 15

Victoria Pictorial

The Wizard Of Oz Opening Night Photos: Malcolm Historic Photo Threadgold Collection

● Camping grounds, Benalla. 1960s.

● Motel Carravilla, Warrnambool. 1960s.

● Olympic swimming pool, Mildura. 1956.

● Railway Street, Euroa. 1958.

● Entrance gates, Government House, Melbourne. 1956.

● Olympic beach, Torquay. 1956.

● Heidelberg Village, home of Olympic athletes. 1956.

● All Saints Church of England, Ferny Creek. 1956.

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Victoria Pictorial

Shopping in Melbourne Historic Photo Collection

● Northland Shopping Centre. 1967.

● Chadstone. Car parks and bus bays. 1967.

● Old Orchard Shopping Centre, Blackburn. 1967.

● Highpoint Shopping Centre. 1976.

● Victoria Market. 1984.

● Arndale Shopping Centre, Croydon. 1967.

● northland Shopping Centre. 1967.

● Royal Hotel and main street, Ferntree Gully. 1950.