Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 87
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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer
Radio: FOX FM gives away $550,000 home ...... Page 88 Veritas: ‘Magazine Wars’ starts on ABC-1 ............. Page 89 The Spoiler: Plotlines for Neighbours, Home & Away ... Page 89 Jim and Aaron: Top 10 lists, best movies and DVDs ....... Page 90 Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre shows, auditions ............. Page 91 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD
PACKED HOUSES FOR ‘NUDE’ Judith Durham’s recovery underway
● Judith Durham ■ The progress of Seeker, Judith Durham, after her cerebral haemorrhage, has been released by her associate Graham Simpson. Graham, who has been her producer and biographer, was also the quick-thinking friend who got Judith to the hospital so quickly before any further damage occurred. “I’m pleased to be able to let you know that after being assessed by the head of the Rehabilitation Unit at Epworth Hospital, Judith was to be transferred to the Unit on Friday for further treatment,” Simpson said. “After speaking with Judith’s neurologist this morning, I can report that while Judith’s everyday conversational speech is fluent, her processing of higher function speech and complex questions is impaired. “On a positive note, during one of their meetings, Judith’s neurologist asked her to sing him something and, without prompting, she was able to correctly sing the first verse of Morningtown Ride, completely in tune! “Later in the afternoon, pleased with her progress, she asked me to test her on other songs, and she was able to sing to me – without any problem – the first verses of I’ll Never Find Another You, Come The Day and I Celebrate Your Life My Baby. “Judith is looking forward to the challenges of rehabilitation and is determined to continue improving. She remains buoyed by the incredible messages of support she receives on a daily basis from all around the world,” Simpson said. - Ash Long
By CHERYL THREADGOLD
● Elise May Watson-Lord (left), Lyla Black and Scarlett take burlesque to the office in Nude at Red Bennies, South Yarra until June 29. Photo: Tania Gioffre ■ Has nudity become humanity's greatest cover up? The good folk from Red Bennies and Scarlett Productions say it has, so I went along to find out. Red Bennies is situated on the first floor of 373 Chapel Street. The atmospherically dim and noisy interior includes two long bars, an intimate, music-hall style stage, and lots of patrons, many happy to stand throughout the whole show. Joining the elegant, semi-naked dancers onstage is pleasant, demurely dressed Producer of the Australian Burlesque Festival, Dolores Daiquiri. Dolores shares her childhood embarrassment at having nudist parents. and the irony of her later becoming a burlesque performer and celebrating flesh and nudity. She explains that burlesque means to mock or parody, and involves only partial nudity. Dolores believes Australians are conservative, because flesh is a beautiful thing, not 'naughty' or 'rude'. Nude is a comedy-free, physical show, with superbly muscletoned male and female dancers and agile circus performers. The aerial silks segment was a highlight for me, but it is also evident there is admirable art to burlesque, behind the gyrating bodies and adept removal of costumes. The website lists the performers as Danny Golding, Hannah Trott, Becky Lou, Miss Filly, Lyla Black, Elise WatsonLord and Ruby Bellinger, complimented by a powerful, unnamed vocalist. Screened images show commercialisation of nudity and it is also pointed out that a clothed body can ease the boredom of nudity and vice versa. Such philosophy on nudity makes sense, but the show's ideology goes off track when introducing sexually suggestive choreography. A crowd pleaser for some, this sexual objectivity contradicts the show's intention of artistically and respectfully celebrating the naked human body. Will Nude change social attitudes to bare flesh? Probably not, but the packed houses are enjoying the show as it is, with music and dancing afterwards, and food is available. Performance Season: Until June 29 Venue: Red Bennies, 1/373 Chapel St, South Yarra Tickets: $30 presale, $35 at the door. (Please note that most tickets are for general admission/standing room only. If you wish to book a table or a booth, please call the Red Bennies office on 9826 2689 to make a reservation.)
MTC mourns death of John Sumner ■ Melbourne Theatre Company is mourning the dxeath of its founder and longest-serving Artistic Director, John Sumner, who passed away on Friday (May 24), aged 88, after a brief illness. MTC Chairman, Derek Young said: “John Sumner’s contribution to Australian theatre is unparalleled. “As founder of Australia’s first professional theatre company, he championed the development of Australian voices and writing in theatre. “His passion, energy and tough professionalism set the standard and have been an inspiration for his successors. To this day he was a regular and enthusiastic theatregoer with tickets to attend our NEON Festival.’ “Our deepest condolences go out to his family at this time,’ Derek Young said. Brett Sheehy, Artistic Director said: “As MTC celebrates its 60th anniversary year, we pay tribute to John’s outstanding abilities as a director, designer and administrator. “His vision set the foundations for the creativity and diversity of talent that still thrills, confronts and entertains us today. He will be sadly missed by us all.” Originally known as the Union Theatre Repertory Company and later, Melbourne Theatre Company, John Sumner founded the Company in 1953 and directed its first production, Jean Anouih’s Colombe. He served as Artistic Director between 1953-1955 and 1959-1987 and during that time John Sumner directed more than a hundred productions and encouraged the development of two generations of Australian playwrights including Ray Lawler, Alan Seymour, Alexander Buzo, John Romeril, Jim McNeil, Nick Enright, John Power and David Williamson to name just a few. John Sumner directed the first production of Ray Lawler’s Summer Of The Seventeenth Doll, a much-loved favourite which continues to thrill audiences in productions today. The company he established became a model for every successful state theatre company and set the standard for Australian theatre in presenting a mix of the best plays from Australia and overseas to a large subscriber base. As Artistic Director, he oversaw the expansion of the company from the Union Theatre to Russell St and on to Arts Centre Melbourne in 1984. Opened in January 2009, MTC’s own Southbank Theatre named its largest theatre, The Sumner in tribute to him. Born in England in 1924, John Sumner moved to Australia in 1952. He served in the British Merchant Navy in the Second World War before moving into stage management with H M Tennent theatres in London’s West End. Following his first season with UTRC, he briefly moved to Sydney to manage the Elizabethan Theatre Trust, but soon returned to Melbourne. He is survived by his two daughters, Alice and Victoria.
New appointments at MSO ■ Gabrielle Waters has been named Director of Operations of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and Natalya Jurcheshin has been appointed Chief Financial Officer. The appointments were announced this week by Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Managing Director André Gremillet.
“Gabrielle Waters will bring extensive orchestral management experience to the MSO having served in similar positions at the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and at the Australian Opera & Ballet Orchestra, among others,” Mr Gremillet said. A graduate of the University of Melbourne and a chartered accountant,
Natalya Jurcheshin, is a former Senior Manager at Arthur Andersen and was most recently CFO of Circadian Technologies Limited, an ASX company. “In addition to her impressive credentials and extensive CFO experience, Natalya has a passion for classical music which made her especially well suited for the role,” said Gremillet.
● The late John Sumner
Page 88 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Observer Showbiz
Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria
FOX LISTENER WINS HOUSE
Country Crossroads info@country crossroads.com.au Big Breakfast Show. Southern FM 88.3. Tues. 6am-9am.
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Rob Foenander
MORRIS PERFORMS AT GYMPIE
■ Russell Morris will perform at this years Gympie Muster and will join The Mavericks (USA), Troy CassarDaley, Adam Brand and a host of well-known artists at the iconic event. His landmark Australian Blues album Sharkmouth, has officially reached ‘gold’ sales status and has recieved a nomination in the APRA 'Blues & Roots Work of the Year', with the winner being announced on June 17.
CHARLIE IN FRANKSTON
■ UK artist Charlie Landsborough, who is currently on an Australian tour, will perform at the Frankston Arts Centre on June 1 at 8.30 pm. Charlie will also perform a concert at the West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul, on June 2.
SOMETHING TO SAY
■ Last year’s Australia's Got Talent contestant Jonny Taylor will release his new album Something To Say on June 1. Taylor's unique blend of alternative country and rock, aptly dubbed 'gruntry, is taking the nation by storm. His songs tell stories of real life situations on a human level - touching on issues such as domestic abuse, alcoholism, teen bullying, depression and love. More info:www.jonnytaylormusic.com
■ Fox 101.9 FM listener ‘Angela’ won a $550,000 Port Davis home in the Peets Aston Estate in Craigieburn this past week. Listeners were able to enter if they were the fastest caller to have in their current address a letter and number the duo would draw from a barrel. On Friday all 38 finalists joined the team from the program starring Matt Tilley and Jo Stanley. Some 38 letter boxes, each contained a key; 37 had black keys and one contained a golden key which was the ticket to the new house.
$550,000 GIVEAWAY WITH SEVEN’S ‘HOUSE RULES’
Newsroom redundancy?
■ Did we hear correctly that there had been another redundancy in the Fairfax Media organisation? Is it right that a Fairfax Radio (3AW/Magic 1278) journalist was told last week that she was redundant?
George Illawarra and Manly match, and was unaware that he was on the air. The ABC investigation into the event has found him in breach of editorial policies and also their employee code of conduct. They said Morrow will return from suspension but won't be calling NRL games straight away.
Infanticipating ■ Former 3AW and 3BA Ballarat newswoman Kim Healey has announced that she and partner Paul are expecting a baby. Kim has also been known as a media manager for a Government department.
● Fox 101.9 breakfast show listener Angela won a $550,000 house at Craigieburn on the Matt Tilley-Jo Stanley program
Radio man, TV pioneer
Radio briefs
Microphone is always on
OBSERVER FLASHBACK
COUNTRY MUSIC GUILD
■ The Country Music Guild Of Australasia continues to present country music every Friday at the Pascoe Vale RSL. Artists booked to perform in June include The Dalton Gang, June 7; The Speedsters, June 14; The Cartwheels, June 21; and The Tim Farren Band, June 28 . Music is from 8pm to 11.30 pm with bistro meals available. Enquiries: Keith, 9338 7902 - Rob Foenander
■ Former Australian Idol co-host James Mathison is said to be among early contenders to host Network 10’s new breakfast show, reports David Knox of the TV Tonight website.
r Observbei z Show
Wednesday, May 29 ■ US President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was born in 1917. He died aged 45 in 1963. Radio man Stan Zemanek was born in 1947. He died aged 60 in 2007. Actress Jo Beth Taylor was born in Perth in 1971 (42). News reader Natarsha Belling is 43.
● Melbourne radio man Roly Barlee, whose career pedigree included 3UZ and 3AK, appeared as the Coroner in the first Homicide TV episode in 1964.
● David Morrow ■ Yet another radio staffer to discover the rule that the microphone is to be treated as always being on, is David Morrow of the ABC. Morrow, the long-time voice of Rugby League on ABC Radio, was stood down pending an investigation into alleged racist remarks made on the air. Morrow was reportedly telling a joke prior to the St
● Peter Mobbs ■ Peter Mobbs’s offer to help train and mentor at Geelong community station Pulse FM seems to have fallen on deaf ears. ■ There is speculation that the entire board has resigned en masse at Castlemaine community radio, WMA FM 94.9. The committee comprises President Ken White, VicePresident Rod Hadfield, Secretary Bettie Exton, Treasurer Robyn Thomas, Ian Braybrook and Fergus Niall. Melbourne
Observer
On This Day Thursday, May 30
Friday, May 31
Saturday, June 1
Sunday, June 2
Monday, June 3
Tuesday, June 4
■ Cartoon voice man Mel Blanc was born in 1908. He died aged 81 in 1989. He was the voice of Bugs Bunny. Band leader Benny Goodman was born in 1909. He died aged 77 in 1986. Stage singer Jill Perryman was born in Melbourne in 1933 (80). She starred in Funny Girl.
■ US actor-director Clint Eastwood was born in San Francisco in 1930 (83). Guitarist Tommy Emmanuel was born in 1955 (58). Politician Justin Madden is 52. Entertainer and dancer Todd McKenney was born in Perth in 1965 (48).
■ Actress Marilyn Monroe was born in 1926. She died aged 36 in 1962. American actor Andy Griffith is 87 (1926). US singer and actor Pat Boone is 79. He was born in Florida. Actor Morgan Freeman was born in Memphis in 1937 (76). He starred in Shawshank Redemption.
■ Johnny Weissmuller, US actor (Tarzan) and Olympic swimmer, was born in 1904. He died aged 79 in 1983. Actress Sally Kellerman, of MASH the movie fame, is 76. US pianist Marvin Hamlisch is 69. Jerry Mathers, actor known as ‘The Beaver’, is 65 (1948).
■ English comic actor Patrick Cargill was born in 1918. He died aged 77 in 1996. Actor Tony Curtis was born in 1925. He died aged 85 in 2010. Rock singer Suzi Quatro is 63 (1950). Singer Dan Hill was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1954. He is 59 today.
■ US actor Dennis Weaver, of Gunsmoke, was born in 1924. He died aged 81 in 2006. US Tex-Mex singer Freddy Fender was born in 1937. He died aged 69 in 2006. Rob E G (Robert Porter), Australian musician is 71. Actress Angelique Jolie is 38 (1975).
Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates. Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 89
Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler MAGAZINE WARS Media Flashes
ShowBiz!
For Those Who Have Lost The Plot
Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven ■ Monday, June 3. Paul's plan to stitch up Mason backfires; Kyle is sick of being treated like an invalid; Kate's chances with Mason are rocked. ■ Tuesday, June 4. Kyle is over being a burden and he suddenly goes missing; Joshua starts to doubt that Brad is the right coach for him; Kate's jealously builds as Mason and Imogen grow closer. ■ Wednesday, June 5. Joshua goes against his Dad's training advice; Kyle pushes Georgia away and finds solace in Kate; Kate struggles with Mason and Imogen. ■ Thursday, June 6. Kyle and Kate face their betrayal and feel guilty. Lou hears from his long lost daughter in Cambodia, will he leave Erinsborough to see her? ■ Friday, June 7. Rani fights for Callum's forgiveness but Callum doesn't want to listen. Chris tries to get Georgia and Kyle back together.
Home and Away ■ Monday, June 3. Ricky escapes from Adam's men, leaving Tamara behind. The Braxtons search for Tamara and Ricky. Heath goes to the city to be with Bianca. Indi is understaffed at the gym. Marilyn apologises to John, but he's not willing to re-start their friendship. ■ Tuesday, June 4. Adam terrorises Ricky and Tamara. Brax lies to Casey, telling him Tamara is safe. Kyle is set up by a photo of him 'buying' a gun. Harvey makes a mess of things volunteering at the gym. After a trying day at the hospital, Dex blurts out that he's smarter than April. ■ Wednesday, June 5. Zac is concerned that Holly has a crush on him. Maddy makes friends with Holly. Natalie counsels Zac to be careful with Holly. April and Dex make up after Dex's blunder. ■ Thursday, June 6. Double Episode. Rosie reveals that her foster parents know nothing about her pregnancy. Brax discovers there's a link between Adam, Tamara and Ricky's disappearance and Casey's imprisonment.
The Woman In Black ■ The spine-tingling thriller, The Woman In Black, is being presented by The Basin Theatre Group until June 8. Super-scary indeed is this play within a play, thanks to director Justin Stephens’s artistically sublime interpretation of Stephen Mallatratt’s script (based on the book by Susan Hill), and the fine acting of Chris McLean (Actor) and Kieran Tracey (Kipps). The story tells of retired lawyer, Arthur Kipps, recounting his terrifying ghostly experiences of the past to a hired actor, in a bid to exorcise his traumatic memories. The actor assumes the role of Kipps and the pair revisits the time when young Kipps first saw a mysterious woman dressed in black. Director Stephens has set the play in the grotty basement of the old Victoria Theatre. His program notes discuss steampunk stylisations appearing throughout the play, explaining this is a sub-genre of science fiction that typically features steam-powered machinery, inspiring many movies and fashion. Stephens has effectively used this to “twist time and re-imagine some technology of the (Victorian) period.” The professionalism of this show includes Stephens’s clever, realistic audio-visual design, Peter Dalwood’s lighting design and Gerald Overton and Justin Stephen’s co-designed set. Actors Chris McLean and Kieran Tracey expertly portray their characters, including versatile multi-role-playing. Mallatratt’s opening dialogue may initially seem laboured, but once the narrative revs up, it is certainly worth waiting for. Visiting The Basin Theatre is always a delight, and the warm hospitality is much appreciated. Spookily, there is no program credit for portrayal of ‘The Woman in Black’. A dark figure nearly scared us out of our wits during the show … didn’t she?! You had best go see The Woman In Black to make up your own mind! Season: May 30, 31, June 1, 6, 7, 8 at 8pm, June 2 at 2pm Venue: The Basin Theatre, Corner Doongalla and Simpson Rds, The Basin. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 1300 784 668 or www.thebasintheatre.org.au - Review by Cheryl Threadgold
■ ABC-1 commences its Magazine Wars miniseries on Sunday (June 2) at 8.30pm. The program features Mandy McElhinney as Nene King (Woman’s Day) pitched against Rachel Griffiths as Duclie Boling (New Idea). Rob Carlton plays Kerry Packer, and William Zappa as Rupert Murdoch. It will be one of the viewing highlights for 2013.
We already know, Helen
● Helen Kapalos ■ Is it really necessary for Today Tonight host Helen Kapalos to remind us of her name at the start and end of most bulletins?
New boss ■ Radio 3ZZZ, Australia’s largest community ethnic broadcaster has this month been seeking an experienced Manager. Applicants are asked to haveasound knowledge and experience in the operation
Separated at birth?
Veritas
Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic
● Mandy McElhinney in Magazine Wars and management of a com- a result they have tempomunity radio station or rarily disabled the functioncommunity organisation, ality relating to C31,” said excellent communication a station spokesman. and financial management “Therefore any televiskills and the ability to sion which uses Freework with people from di- view’s EPG will not show verse backgrounds. data for C31.”
● Obi-Wan Kenobi and Keith McGowan ■ Observer reader Brad Matheson asks if Star Wars character Obi-Wan Kenobi (Sir Alec Guinness) was being channelled by Melbourne radio veteran Keith McGowan in this week’s cold weather. The former 3AW Overnighters co-host took refuge in a warm blanket at his inner-suburban apartment. Keith said: “I wanted to watch TV and it was cold. I pressed the ‘on’ button of the heater but it didn't work. I don't know why I was surprised the heater didn't work, as it hasn't worked since 1994.”
Radio Hall of Fame
Channel 31 Secret River ABC has commitdropped ■tedThe to the development of ■ Listings for the Melbourne-Geelong community TV station, Channel 31, have been dropped from the EPG (Electronic Program Guide) assembled by Freeview. “Freeview has recently changed the way their EPG operates and as
acclaimed Australian novel, The Secret River, by author Kate Grenville, as a television mini-series. The novel won the Commonwealth Writers Prize in 2006 and was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in the same year. The project has been developed by producers, Stephen Luby, and Mark Ruse of Ruby Entertainment.
Big The Musical
● Josh Baskin Jnr (Lachlan Bradshaw) wanted to be a grown-up . His wish is granted, and now Josh Snr (Christian Cavallo, left) thinks and acts like a 12-year-old, in Big The Musical at the Phoenix Theatre, Elwood from June 14-22. Photo: Trevor Lowther ■ MLOC Productions presents Big However, does Josh find being a The Musical on June 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 grown-up is all that it is cracked up to at 8pm and June 16, 22 at 2pm at the be? Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Rd, Directing this toe-tapping, family muElwood. sical is Trish Carr, musical direction Big The Musical is based on the 1988 is by Geoff Earle and choreographer is movie Big, starring Tom Hanks. When 12-year-old Josh Baskin Keir Jasper. Tickets: $32/$30/$28. Bookings: wishes he was an adult, his wish is www.mloc.org.au or 9808 9775. granted by a carnival magical Zoltar - Cheryl Threadgold machine.
● Bert Newton and Don Lane at 3UZ ■ Nominations closed on Friday for Commercial Radio Australia’s awards, to be presented in Brisbane in October. The Hall of Fame includes radio veterans including Graham Mott, Tony Pilkington, Derryn Hinch, Des DeCean, Neil Mitchell, Greg Smith, Frank Hyde, Bob Francis, Rod Muir, Gary O'Callaghan, John Laws, John Brennan, Johannes Oost, Janet Cameron, Bruce Rogerson, Ron Camplin, Garvin Rutherford, Bob Cornish, Bob Scott, Des Foster, Brian White, Ronald Haig-Muir, Stanley J Wilmott and Les J Heil. A glaring Hall Of Fame omission seems to be Melbourne’s own Bert Newton who started as a lad with Jean Lawson on 3DB’s Fakamagangees, working at age 13 with Doug McKenzie on 3XY, and becoming an XY junior announcer at age 15. Bert’s career includes stints at 3AK, 3UZ (a toprating morning show host) and as General Manager of 3DB. He is soon to start rehearsals to play the role of Vince Fontaine in Grease The Musical, which is being staged in Brisbane for seven weeks from August 20. ■ And if they are handing out gongs at the Radio Awards night, perhaps there should be consideration for Bruce Mansfield and Philip Brady who started their 3AW radio partnership in 1990, 23 years ago. Brady, who is 74 on June 16, has worked on radio since the 1960s with stints at 3AK, Easy Listening 97 at Tweed Heads, and 3AW.
Veritas’s TV topics ■ Rob Sitch’s The Hollowmen is getting a re-run on ABC-1 and ABC iView. The 2008 series seems more relevant than ever. ■ SBS-One has been serving a great series of Who Do You Think You Are? Australian participants in this series have included Rove McManus, actor John Howard and Lex Marinos. ■ Faces such as Ian Smith, Kerry Armstrong, Pete Smith and Glenn Robbins have surfaced in You Tube footage of Channel 31’s Darren and Brose Show from 1999 onwards.
Page 90 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Observer Showbiz What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs
● THE ALFRED HITCHCOCK HOUR: The unique and irreplaceable Master of Suspense, Sir Alfred Hitchcock. Some of his best and most frightening episodes appear in the three complete seasons of his final classic star-studded hour long TV anthology series. FILM: THE ALFRED HITCHCOCK HOUR The Complete Seasons One, Two and Three: Genre: Drama. Cast: Alfred Hitchcock, Vera Miles, John Cassavetes, Angie Dickinson & Many More! Year: 1962-1965. Rating: PG. Running Time: 1600, 1450 and 1600 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: ****½ Verdict: What started as the groundbreaking 'Alfred Hitchcock Presents' series with ran from 1955 to 1962, now concludes with the final three seasons of 'The Alfred Hitchcock Hour,' and they've saved the best to the last, most notably the chilling 'buried alive' episode 'Final Escape' starring Ed 'Cookie' Byrnes that went on to inspire numerous filmmakers and movies, and still haunts many to this day. The award winning writers of these three series include Richard Matheson, Richard Levinson & William Link (Columbo), Robert Bloch (Psycho) Leigh Brackett (The Big Sleep, Rio Brava, The Empire Strikes Back), Ray Bradbury (Fahrenheit 451, The Illustrated Man), and the Oscar winning Directors include William Friedkin (The French Connection, The Exorcist) and Sydney Pollack (Out of Africa), among others. A MUST SEE! FILM: MRS BIGGS: Genre: Drama/Crime/Mystery/TV. Cast: Sheridan Smith, Daniel Mays, Jay Simpson. Year: 2013. Rating: MA15+. Running Time: 260 Minutes. Format: DVD. Stars: **** Verdict: Enthralling British-Australian co-production based on the true story of the wife of Great Train Robber Ronald Biggs. Starting with their meeting as a naïve young woman to Biggs' wife to subsequent mother with three young sons, the Great Train Robbery of August 1963, the aftermath of the robbery, Biggs subsequent escape from prison and their life on the run to Australia. Superb cast, most notably Sheridan Smith in her BAFTA award winning role as Charmian Biggs, and high end production values and period detail, make this captivating and enjoyable viewing on the 50th anniversary of this historic criminal event. FILM: THE IMPOSSIBLE: Cast: Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, Tom Holland. Genre: Drama. Year: 2012. Rating: M. Running Time: 114 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: **** Verdict: The compelling true story of a family in Thailand, and their fight for survival and reconciliation during and in the aftermath of one of the w o r s t natural catastrophes of all time, the Boxing Day 2004 Tsunami tragedy. Naomi Watts gives an outstanding Oscar nominated performance as the wounded Mother with her eldest son, another stand-out performance by a young Tom Holland, as they struggle desperately for survival, and not knowing if her husband and their two younger sons are still alive. A heartfelt and heartbreaking odyssey! FILM: JACK REACHER: Genre: Thriller/Action/Crime. Cast: Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins. Year: 2012. Rating: M. Running Time: 130 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***½ Verdict: An endlessly energetic and youthful Tom Cruise supplies plenty thrills and action as an ex-army MP is requested to investigate into a case involving a trained military sniper, but time is running out fast. This big budget thriller, based on the book 'One Shot' by Lee Child, is sure to keep you firmly on the edge of your seat as the plot and superbly staged action unfolds. Filled with a good serving of twists and turns, tight direction and a strong supporting cast, it all pretty much ensures an entertaining thrill ride that will satisfy most diets.
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Movies, DVDs With Jim Sherlock and Aaron Rourke
BRYAN FORBES SELECTED RECOMMENDATIONS
● Bryan Forbes and Sir Richard Attenborough in the 1960 heist classic The League Of Gentlemen. ■ It was certainly hard last week com- (Jack Hawkins) persuades other pressing the careers of two highly in- former officers (through the gentle art fluential artists (Ray Harryhausen of blackmail) to participate in a darand Bryan Forbes) into one concise ing, complex bank robbery. article, so this week I thought it would Forbes' precise, intricately strucbe respectful to go into more detail in tured script, complimented by regards to specific recommendations. Dearden's low-key approach makes Actor-writer-producer-director this a truly special viewing experience, Bryan Forbes made a number of out- and a wonderful sense of humour is the standing films under each banner dur- delicious icing on the cake. ing the 1950s and 60s, so here is a list Forbes is great fun as ladies' man of striking, stand-out motion pictures Martin Porthill. Christopher that all come with the highest recom- McQuarrie and Bryan Singer were mendation. obviously big fans when they conceived All are available on DVD, either in The Usual Suspects (1995). (region 4) or the UK (region 2). Whistle Down The Wind (PG) The Colditz Story (G) (1955). 97 (1961). 99 minutes. ****½. minutes. ****½. Bryan Forbes' directorial debut Probably still the best WWII P.O.W was this absorbing, unusual coming-ofescape film, this beautifully shot, su- age drama about three children who inper-efficient drama focuses on a group nocently harbour a murderer (Alan of prisoners trying to come up with a Bates), who is on the run from the poplan to break out of the notorious lice. Colditz Castle. Forbes adapted Mary Hayley Co-writer/director Guy Hamilton Bell's novel, and his restrained, natu(who would go on to direct a number of ral approach makes this highly rewardfilms in the James Bond series) and ing entertainment. co-screenwriter Ivan Foxwell brilFirst-rate acting from Bates, young liantly mixes drama with a dry sense Hayley Mills, and Bernard Lee. of humour, and the colourful collection Seance On A Wet Afternoon (PG) of nationalities gives the story a (1964). 115 minutes. *****. grander feel, showing how the war afSimply outstanding drama/thriller, fected the world, not just certain coun- and features Forbes' best work as a tries. The entire cast are excellent, includ- director. Kim Stanley is completely unnerving John Mills, Lionel Jeffries, and as disturbed would-be medium of course Bryan Forbes, who plays ing Myra, who along with her meek husJimmy Winslow. Certainly had a band Billy (played to perfection by Sir major influence on John Sturges' Richard Attenborough), concoct a mega-hit The Great Escape (1963). plan to kidnap a child, and preYesterday's Enemy (PG) (1959). 91 tend to discover where she isthen through minutes. ****. supposed powers, ensuring a Tough, uncompromising WWII Myra's healthy reward from the rich family drama that was ahead of its time in looking at the horrors of war from both they have targeted. Script, direction, and performances sides. Set in Burma in 1942, the story cen- are flawless, as the fascinating story tres on a small British unit lead by leads to a tense, riveting conclusion. King Rat (PG) (1965). 133 minCaptain Langford (a superb Stanley Baker), who locates and se- utes. ****. Strong WWII drama, again showcures a small village which has been used by the Japanese, who have left a ing Forbes' fascination with the psymap that could uncover their positions chological effects on people who are dealing with adverse physical environto Allied soldiers. Langford is prepared to torture a ments. George Segal (normally known for Burmese informer as well as innocent villagers to procure the map's secrets. his slapstick comedies) delivers a conAs events unfold Langford will see vincing, atypical performance as the the tables turned. A companion piece title character, a US corporal who runs to director Val Guest's controversial the Singapore P.O.W camp he is imThe Camp On Blood Island (1957), prisoned at, and the growing relationwhich realistically looked at how the ship that develops between him and Japanese treated P.O.W's, this is se- British soldier Marlowe (James rious, thoughtful viewing. Forbes plays Fox). Tom Courtenay is terrific as the role of Dawson. The League Of Gentlemen (G) Grey, the guard who is obsessed about bringing King down. (1960). 114 minutes. ****½. Great use of locations, and proceedSublime heist film, elevated by Bryan Forbes' exceptional screen- ings are treated in a believable, lowplay, Basil Dearden's assured, intel- key manner. An impressive supporting cast inligent direction, and first-rate performances from a perfectly chosen cast. cludes Denholm Elliott, John Inspired by the novel The Golden Mills, and Leonard Rossiter. - Aaron Rourke Fleece, a disgruntled ex-army officer
Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1 STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS 2 IRON MAN 3 3 THE CALL 4 SNITCH 5 THE BIG WEDDING 6 THE PLACE BEYOND THE PINES 7 THE CROODS 8 OLYMPUS HAS FALLEN 9 SPRING BREAKERS 10 SONG FOR MARION NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: MAY 23: DEAD MAN DOWN, THE HANGOVER PART III, THE RELUCTANT FUNDAMENTALIST, JEFF WAYNE'S MUSICAL VERSION OF THE WAR OF THE WORLDS: ALIVE ON STAGE! - THE NEW GENERATION. MAY 30: A HAUNTED HOUSE, HAPPINESS NEVER COMES ALONE, SINISTER, THE GREAT GATSBY. THE DVD TOP RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. LIFE OF PI [Drama/Adventure/ Irrfan Khan, Suraj Sharma]. 2. JACK REACHER [Action/Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike]. 3. THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey [Fantasy/Adventure/Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen]. 4. GANGSTER SQUAD [Crime/ Drama/Action/Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling]. 5. SKYFALL [Action/Adventure/ Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Judi Dench]. 6. HITCHCOCK [Drama/Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson, Danny Huston]. 7. QUARTET [Comedy/Drama/ Maggie Smith, Michael Gambon, Billy Connolly]. 8. LES MISERABLES [Musical/ Drama/Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway]. 9. ARGO [Thriller/Ben Affleck, Alan Arkin, John Goodman]. 10. TWILIGHT SAGA: Breaking Dawn - Part 2 [Drama/Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson]. Also: WRECK IT RALPH, THIS IS 40, PARENTAL GUIDENCE, THE SESSIONS. ALEX CROSS, RISE OF THE GUARDIANS, TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE, RED DAWN, PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER, DREDD. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: THE IMPOSSIBLE [Drama/Naomi Watts, Ewan Mc Gregor, Tom Holland]. GUILT TRIP [Comedy/Seth Rogen, Barbra Streisand]. GOATS [Comedy/David Duchovny, Vera Farmiga]. TAD THE LOST EXPLORER [Animated/Family]. MIFFY THE MOVIE [Animated/Family/Children's]. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: MONSTERS, INC [2001/Animated/ Family/Billy Crystal, John Goodman]. NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: OUR QUEEN [Documentary]. CITIZEN KHAN [Comedy]. CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVISITED: Keep On Travelling. SESAME STREET: Elmo's Magic Numbers. Turn To Page 95
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 91
Observer Showbiz UNCONDITIONAL HEART ■ Inspired by American fantasy horror and mystery writer Ray Bradbury, Suze Smith and Michael Carmody cowrote the play following advice Bradbury had once given ‘list 10 things you love, hate and fear and then “kill” them by writing about them’. Smith and Carmody made lists and produced Unconditioned Heart, which sets out to demonstrate and explore the ‘intimacy, vulnerability and the struggle to stay afloat in the great gulf of suburbia’. Lily Fish and Rob Gaetano portray brother and sister Jack and Jill. They stand on the driveway of their home, indecisive, unable to enter. Through movement, shadow puppetry, minimal dialogue and silence, wanting to touch but resisting the intimacy of it, they reveal moments of their past, exploring the struggle to survive in ‘a strange situation in a strange world’. They know each other but cannot bridge the gap; they admit that they dislike their parents but feel guilt. Vanessa Chapple and Paul Roberts, with no dialogue but in continuous physical movement around and with Fish and Gaetano, accentuate their inner struggles. There is a minimal set with one wardrobe, the doors of which are opened by Jack, revealing a back-lit screen through which by the shadow puppetry of Dan Goronszy, we see depicted childhood memories of Jack and Jill. The lighting by Gina Gascoigne and stage management by Rita Verocchi are excellent. The performance would not appeal to traditional theatre-goers, but La Mama Theatre is to be commended for presenting innovative and challenging ideas as actors interpret new writers’ work. Performances: Until June 2, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 6.30pm. Saturday, Sunday 8.30pm. Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St Carlton. Running time: 50 minutes. Tickets: $25/$15. Bookings: 9347 6948 or online at www.lamama.com.au - Review by Rita Crispin
THE DEATH OF PETER PAN ■ Fly-on-the-Wall Theatre presents The Death of Peter Pan until June 2 at Chapel Off Chapel, Prahran. Written by Australian playwright Barry Lowe and staged under the masterly direction of Robert Chuter, the play tells of Peter Pan author J. M. Barrie’s relationship with his five adoptive sons. Barrie is said to have found inspiration to write his best-known work, Peter Pan, from his friendship with the Llewelyn Davies family, becoming the boys’ guardian after their parents’ death. Juxtaposing Barrie’s love for his favourite son, Michael, is Michael’s same-sex attraction and love for the brash but charming Rupert Buxton. Repressed Edwardian attitudes forbade such a relationship, with tragic consequences for Michael, Rupert and Barrie. Using a wonderful Scottish accent, Ian Rooney portrays J. M. Barrie with impressive believability, candidly conveying Barrie’s fears, humour, and philosophic thoughts in narration and dialogue. Joining Rooney in Chuter’s fine cast are Kieran McShane (Michael), Jordan Armstrong (Rupert), Benjamin Byrne (Michael’s brother, Nico), Sean Paisley-Collins and Matthew Werkmeister (friends Senhouse and Boothby), Alexander Moller (French waiter, Patrick), Gabby Llewellyn Salter (Barrie’s ex-wife Mary) and Frédérique Fouché (French prostitute, Maree). Picturesque posing of characters at the beginning of scenes creates a delightful storybook page effect, coming alive when the characters mobilise. Chuter transports the audience into his characters’ lives and, with skilled artistry and a dash of Barrie’s escapism, takes us to outdoor and indoor locations in England, France and Scotland, using designer Elissa Hulla’s effectively simple central set of a large table, chairs and Edwardian period hanging glass lights, plus Rob Sowinski’s lighting and Andrew Bishop’s music/sound designs. This male dominated play has two female characters – Maree, referred to as a ‘whore’ and Barrie’s ex-wife Mary, with the Nurse’s role in the original script omitted in this interpretation. The absence of empowering females enables the masculine world of Lowe’s characters to remain effectively prominent as the story unfolds. Some dialogue was inaudible during the fireworks scene on opening night, but overall The Death of Peter Pan, inspired by a true story, is an exquisitely crafted theatre experience. Performance season: Until June 2 Times: Wed – Sat at 8pm, Sun 6.30pm Venue: The Loft, Chapel Off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel Street, Prahran. Tickets: $30 full,$28 concession, plus transaction fee. Bookings: chapeloffchapel.com.au or 8290 7000 Please note: This play contains nudity, adult themes and haze effects.
Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold
Melbourne
Observer
‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’ SHOWS ■ The Basin Theatre: The Woman in Black Until June 8 at The Basin Theatre, Corner Doongalla and Simpson Roads, The Basin. Director: Justin Stephens. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 1300 784 668 www.basintheatre.org.au ■ Moreland Theatre Company: Arsenic and Old Lace (by Joseph Kesselring) Until June 1 at the Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre, Corner Sydney and Glenlyon Roads, Brunswick. Director: Rick Barry. Tickets: $25/$18. Bookings: www.moreland.org.au ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Picasso at the Lapin Agile (by Steve Martin) Until June 8 at the Clocktower Theatre, Corner Wilson and Carpenter Streets, Brighton. Director: Jeff Saliba. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 752 126 or www.brightontheatreco.com ■ The Mount Players: The Threepenny Opera (by Bertolt Brecht), Until June 23 at 56 Smith Street, Macedon. Director: Leo Vandervalk: Musical Director: Peter Weerts. Tickets: $28/$25. Bookings: www.themountplayers.com.au ■ Gemco Players Community Theatre: Don't Drink the Water (by Woody Allen) Until June 1 at the Gem Community Arts Centre, 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald. Director: Kym Davies. Tickets: $24/$22. Bookings: www.gemcoplayers.org ■ Phoenix Theatre Company: The Wedding Singer Until June 1 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Director/Choreographer: Renee Maloney; Musical Director: Katie Packer. Tickets: www.phoenixtheatrecompany.org ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre: Laughter on the 23rd Floor (by Neil Simon) May 29 - June 15 at the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, 39-41 Castella Street, Lilydale. Director: Kevin Trask. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: www.lilydaleatc.com ■ Fab Nobs Theatre Inc and Williamstown Music Theatre Company: [title of show] June 7 - 15 at the Fab Factory, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater, Bookings: fabnobstheatre.com.au or 0401 018 846. June 20 - 23 at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, Corner Melbourne Road and Electra Street, Williamstown. Bookings: wtc.org.au 1300 881 545. Tickets: $32/$28. ■ Mountain District Musical Society: Fiddler on the Roof June 14 - 22 at the Karralyka Centre, Mines Road, Ringwood. Director: Paul Watson; Musical Director: Ryan Jacobs; Choreographer: Kaela Brushett. Tickets: $38/$35/Children U15 $25. Bookings: 0402 221 681 or email: tickets@mdms.org.au ■ Windmill Theatre Company: The Phantom of the Opera June 21 - July 4 at the Drum Theatre, Dandenong. Director: Chris Hughes: Musical Director: Julia Buchanan; Choreographer: Robert Mulholland. Tickets: $39.60/$35.20. Bookings: www.phantomoftheopera.net.au ■ Sunshine Community Theatre: Boston Marriage (by David Mamet), June 28 - July 6 at the Dempster Park Hall, 82 Phoenix Street, North Sunshine. Director: Lee Cook. Tickets: $15/$12. Bookings: 0407 802165 www.sunshinecommunitytheatre.com ■ Altona City Theatre: Spring Awakening: A New Musical July 5 - 20 at the Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona. Bookings: www.altonacitytheatre.com.au or 0425 705 550. ■ Aspect Theatre: Hairspray July 12 - 20 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Road, Parkdale. Director: Lyn Laister; Musical Director: Emma McGeorge; Choreographer: KimAnnette. Bookings: www.aspecttheatre.com After hours: 9580 8415.
AUDITIONS ■ Warrandyte Theatre Company: The Real Inspector Hound (by Tom Stoppard), June 2 at 2.00pm and June 5 at 7.30pm at the Warrandyte Mechanics Institute Hall, Yarra Street, Warrandyte. Directors: Nieta Manser/David Tynan. Audition bookings: 0439 311428. ■ Croydon Parish Players: Fiddler on the Roof Information Night May 28, 30 at 8.00pm, Auditions June 3, 4 at 7.00pm at the Croydon Uniting Church, Tallent Street, Croydon. Director: Russell Walters; Musical Director: David Billmori. Email: info@croydonparishplayers.com ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Morning Departure June 3, 4 at 2 Albert Street, Williamstown. Director: Gaentano Santo. Audition bookings: 0419 529 208. ■ Sunshine Community Theatre: And the Big Men Fly (by Alan Hopgood) June 6 at 2.00pm, June 10 at 8.00pm at the Dempster Park Hall, 82 Phoenix Street, North Sunshine. Director: Stephen Andrews. Audition bookings: 0407 802 165. ■ Wyndham Theatre Company: Deathtrap (by Ira Levin) June 22, 29 at 12.00 noon at the Crossroads Theatre, Corner Synot Street and Duncans Road. Werribee. Director: Ron Fenton. Audition bookings: 0403 338 836. ■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (by Gay Presson Allen), June 27 at 7.00pm, June 30 at 12 noon at the Woodbin Theatre, 15 Coronation Street, Geelong West. Director: Stacey Carmichael. Audition bookings: 0400 233 085.
[Title Of Show]
● Brit Lewis (left), Nick Kong, Karl McNamara and Emily McKenzie in [title of show] presented by Fab Nobs from June 7-15 in Bayswater, and by Williamstown Musical Theatre Company from June 2023. Photo: Ang Cuy ■ An exciting theatrical collaboration takes place in June between Fab Nobs Theatre Inc. and Williamstown Musical Theatre Company when [title of show] is presented at the Fab Factory in Bayswater from June 7-15 and then, featuring the same cast, at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute from June 20-23. This joint venture will offer two communities in both companies' areas a high quality production, provide an opportunity to increase the companies' knowledge, skills, tools and resources, and demonstrate collaboration, rather than competition. [title of show] is directed by Ang Cuy, with musical direction by Simon D'Aquino. Jeff Bowen has written the music/lyrics and the book is by Hunter Bell. The show follows the struggles of an author, composer/lyricist and their two actress friends during a three-week creative period leading up to a show's opening night. Performances/Venues: ■ June 7-15 at 8pm at the Fab Factory, 33 Industry Place, Bayswater (Bookings: fabnobstheatre.com.au or 0401 018 846); ■ June 20 - 23 at the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, Corner Melbourne Road and Electra Sts, Williamstown. (Bookings: wtc.org.au or 1300 881 545) Tickets: $32/$28.
THE WOODSMAN
■ Green Room Award winning theatre company Act-O-Matic 3000 presents the Australian premiere of The Woodsman from June 6-22 at 8.00pm at the Mechanics Institute, 270 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. Written by Steven Fechter and directed by Dan Walls, this controversial drama tells of Walter being released back into the community after twelve years in jail. His existence is quiet despair and therapy sessions. The Police keep a close watch on him and he tries to keep his urges under control. However, a one-night stand with a co-worker breaks him out of his self-imposed exile and he reveals his troubled history. Then Walter meets 11-year-old Robin. Will he let history repeat? This unflinching and moving drama will provoke debate as it takes a look behind the headlines to see what has become of a man who has paid his debt for an unforgiveable crime. Performance Season: June 6-8, June 12 – 15, June 19-22 at 8pm Venue: Mechanics Institute, 270 Sydney Rd, Brunswick Tickets: $15 Wednesdays (June 12 and 19), $25 full price, $20 concession Bookings: www.trybooking.com/49098 or call 9005 7870 or email actomatic3000@gmail.com
● Libby Brockman and David Passmore in The Woodsman at the Brunswick Mechanics Institute from June 6 – 22..
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Page 92 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 Melbourne
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 24 Across
1. Visionaries 6. Man of Steel hero 11. Tibia 15. Gangster's lieutenants 20. Clumsy lout 21. Tall Kenyan tribe 22. The Boston ... Party 23. Most substantial 24. Sermonises 25. State publicly 27. Causing (havoc) 28. Father (children) 29. Elevate 31. Ireland (poetic) 32. Pester 36. Kenya's capital 37. Gods 38. Prepared (3,3) 41. Takes note of 44. Cymbals sound 45. Dutch centre of govt, The ... 48. Non-professional 49. Mideast shipping passage (3,3) 52. Pushing for 56. Go in front of 57. Dessert, ... split 58. Aerial 61. Culminate in (4,2) 62. California's San ... Fault 63. Vestments 64. Dame Nellie ... 65. Performs service for 66. Joins forces (5,2) 67. Odd bod 71. Canal boat 73. Of sound system 75. Cloudiest 80. Battery fluid 82. Elbowing 83. The T of PTO 85. Vibrated 86. Made reparation 88. Colonial realm 90. Acorn-gathering mammal 91. Dot/dash code 93. Agitated 94. Misbehaved (6,2) 95. Yummiest 96. Prime example 97. A single occasion 99. Unicorn spike 100. Snake 104. Upper leg 105. Tycoon 106. Well done! 107. Freeloaders 111. Spooky 113. UAE sheikhdom, ... Dhabi 114. Estimated touchdown time (1,1,1) 115. Computer/phone link 117. Part of sentence 118. Ate out 121. Brazil's ... Janeiro (3,2) 122. Wood-shaping machine 125. Gambol 126. Clock face 127. Give up (territory) 129. Xmas period 131. Receive 132. Hansel's partner 135. Coober Pedy gem 136. Sticks (to) 139. Peruse 140. International charity club 144. Bravery badge 145. Sultan's wives 146. Cost 147. Grumble 148. Curtly
Across 149. Tuscany is there 150. Kinder 152. Not heavy 154. Surrenders 157. Small version 158. Letter 162. Spinster relative, maiden ... 163. Academy Awards 166. Bathe 167. Assents with head 169. Ayatollah's land 171. Capital of Peru 172. Main Japanese island 173. Rule 175. Raising agent 176. Lead 179. US president, Ronald ... 180. Bird of prey 182. And so forth 183. Facial twitch 184. Encouraged, ... on 186. Half-breeds 189. Scoffs 190. Shrub fence 191. Panic 192. Insists 196. Tofu bean 197. Scythes 198. Monarch's rod 199. Holding up 201. Paraffin oil 202. Stupidly 203. Taunted 204. Carve in stone 205. Inserts 208. Twins zodiac sign 210. Cairo native 211. Teenage heart-throb 212. Disorganised person 213. Tin containers 215. Dodges 219. Paris underground 221. Stop! (nautical) 223. Spear vegetable 227. Robbers 228. Pilot 230. Eighth, ..., tenth 231. Army chaplain 232. Plays at, ... in 233. Nit-picker 234. Fill with blood 238. Synagogue scholars 239. N African country 240. Actress, ... Bullock 243. Changes 246. Fettered 247. Plough (into) 250. Trivial 251. Concur 253. Desists 256. Supervise 257. Wind (of river) 258. Absorb 262. Speed measurement 263. Spoon 266. Rodents 268. Intermediary 269. Goes faster than 270. Wounds 271. Judgments 272. Commercials 273. Kilt 274. Prosecute 275. Adds sugar to 276. Discourtesy 277. Gauged 278. Matchless
Down 1. Disband (troops) 2. Antelope 3. Corn 4. Singer, Diana ... 5. Lampooning comedy 7. Supposition 8. Stripy-tailed US animals 9. Film & Don McLean hit, ... Pie 10. Space agency 11. Depletes 12. Mercenary (5,3) 13. Smooching 14. Formal address 15. Chopping 16. Merit 17. Swimming stroke 18. Servants 19. Dusk to dawn 24. Sheep enclosures 26. Net fabric 30. Very annoyed 33. Yearly book of events 34. US folk singer, Woody ... 35. Stalk food 38. Of heart/lung exercises 39. More fortunate 40. Constant 42. Periods of time 43. Mythical vampire 46. Born Free writer, Joy ... 47. As far as (2,2) 49. Cheese on toast, Welsh ... 50. Blackball 51. London district (4,3) 53. Rush about angrily 54. Lazed 55. Allure 59. Drip shape 60. Most unpleasant 67. Follow-up movies 68. Train coach 69. Tussle 70. Personal reminiscence 72. Deep love 74. Travelling worker 76. Order 77. Made whole 78. Fleshy ear tissue (3,4) 79. Bank clerks 81. Reprimanded severely 84. Nursing sanatorium (4-4) 87. Tinted sun visor 89. Naphthalene pellet 91. Muttered 92. Close watch (5,3) 98. Neglect 101. Early anaesthetic 102. Sow 103. Acupuncture spike 108. Current unit 109. Skin transplant 110. Speedster 112. Rearousal 116. Adapting to stage play 119. Speak off the cuff 120. Outshining 123. Flying craft 124. Newspaper titles 128. Harmed 130. Power-grabber 132. Nomad
Down 133. Banishment 134. Correct (text) 137. Indian group of dialects 138. Bake (meat) 141. Skips 142. Ethiopia's Addis ... 143. Spinning toys (2-3) 151. Distributed 153. Stashes 155. Elephant poacher's cache 156. Cutting beam 159. Mentally gearing (up) 160. Pottery fragments 161. Discarded rubbish carelessly 164. Wear by rubbing 165. Reply 168. Biased (3-5) 170. Famed gangster (2,6) 173. Stayed 174. Lacking ability 177. Lecturers 178. Confined (6,2) 181. Congregate 185. Lessening in intensity (6,2) 186. Siberian dogs 187. Sanctified 188. Trainee doctors 193. Profiteering ticket seller 194. Swaying on heels 195. Common expressions 200. Surrounding 201. Capsize (4,4) 206. Instants 207. Suffocate 208. Clasped 209. Chats 211. Map pressure lines 214. Levee bank sack 216. Include 217. Income cheats, tax ... 218. Equatorial region, The ... 220. Wood joint projection 222. Tot up (3,2) 224. Humiliated 225. Strolling 226. Fruitless 229. Back section 232. Numbered cubes 235. Indescribable 236. Possessed 237. Articles of clothing 241. Turned aside 242. Scorn 244. Normally (2,1,4) 245. Toy bears 248. Trophies 249. Triumphant laugh (2,2) 251. Upper limbs 252. Regain 253. Pitches tent 254. Grand Slam tennis champ, .. Agassi 255. Take (revenge) 259. Internal 260. Summon up 261. Cricket matches 262. Cry in pain 264. Inquires 265. Former Italian money unit 267. Fencing sword
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 93
Solution on Page 84
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Page 94 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Telstra Testimonials Send your contribution to editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne
Observer
● ‘Telstra testimonials’ is a weekly section of the Melbourne Observer, where we hold the national communications company to account. Australians are sick and tired of breakdowns, and a poor service attitude. Every week we send a copy of the Melbourne Observer to David Thodey, CEO of Telstra, Locked Bag 5639, Melbourne, Vic 3001. He and his staff are always welcome to comment on, and fix, the complaints
Deadline failure
Month’s delay ■ Tina DaSilva said: “A month has now passed since my first post on your Facebook page, April 24. “More time has passed since even before that with my initial issue with Telstra, including me visiting a Telstra store to resolve the issue. “Emails have been exchanged numerous times, and I am still waiting for Telstra to contact me. “This is beyond frustrating. If this was my business and I had failed a client so many times I would be doing backflips to rectify the problem asap ... not Telstra though.”
No return calls
■ Melbourne Observer Editor Ash Long says that Telstra again failed the newspaper last week - right on deadline time. “For the second week in succession, the Telstra service was lost without prior notice. We lost more than 2½-hours production when the Bigpond cable service was out of action close to our press time. “Telstra’s ‘Technical Support’ had no idea of the outage.”
■ Bindi Nankivell complained: “Been waiting for a response since Monday from a case manager about my bill . “Every time I ring they say they will ring tommorow and never do . “I have a case number but no one seems to want to help me out . “My bill is due today that's why I wanted it sorted . “What am I to do as I can't wait by my phone forever ?”
‘Reverse racism’
■ Kathryn Broadwood states: “No wonder you are shedding jobs, Telstra. I actually wanted you to take my money when I upgraded my phone, but despite having state government employee ID (which requires a criminal check) and other forms of ID, because it didn't match your "new" rules, I was refused. “Oh, the best part? I've been a customer for well over three years, and wanted to upgrade plan and phone. “The fact that you refused to accept this and treated me like some sort of shady illicit criminal is disgusting. “Oh, and irony? Got hold of your ‘secure’ call centre in the Philippines, where they were willing to swap me over on the phone with no proof of ID except me saying who I am. “Is this some form of reverse racism, where white Australians are not trustworthy, but Filipinos are? “Why should I pay an extra $150 (which I'm sure you won't refund) just to prove to you I am the same person that I can do with various other forms of ID?”!
Still waiting
■ Chris Angelico said: “I'm a bit cheesed off a fault was reported today at 1:30pm of a fallen telephone line across our road. “I come home at 7, it is still across the road, no phone or Internet! “One question: why do we pay service fees?”
‘Not an option’
‘The trouble you have been’ ■ Halina Dorward said: “Please call me back. I have been on hold for 50 minutes trying to get through to a Level 2 technical support team member. You have my mobile number on file. “I have been waiting for the internet since May 10 and have been told the next available appointment for a technician is June 4. “This case needs to be escalated because waiting that long for a new internet connection shouldn't happen in this day and age. “As a new customer it is safe to say that I am unimpressed. What will you do to get me connected as soon as possible? Waiting another 10 days is not an option. Please advise.”
■ Elton Edwin Pigg said: “Dear Telstra. Just wanted to give some feedback this is the third time this week our phone has gone off and after 40 mins and speaking to four operators - including one onshore - the only outcome was having NO phone line for 28 hours! “I left Optus to come back to you guys because of your reliability and this has been a shocking week and lack of service. We currently have no phone, calls are being diverted to a mobile but that’s still not good enough. “There are works on the NBN going on in our street but they shouldn't be affecting our phone lines unless we will actually benefit from receiving the NBN. “Very unsatisfied!”
Ears painted on? ● Keith William Ryan Phillips said: “This topped off my already 10-hour-long angry saga with the Telstra team, being accidentally told I was the delay and trouble. Sigh.”
It’s a monopoly ■ Cindy Danger Magnet comments: “50 minutes later and still on hold ... God I love u guys! Seriously! A simple move to a new house and nothing promised is ever delivered. I honestly am forever shocked at how you continue to stay in business! “Monopolise the market, charge the highest rates and offer little to no service. Maybe if I ever get to speak to someone they will actually deal with my enquiry.”
T-Box faults
■ Mark Deans complains: “Telstra Bigpond big fail! How can they just delete a business email address after 10 years and have no idea how to fix it?”
Phone out 3 times
■ Clive Smith said: “Nearly three hours on the phone yesterday and as expected, the call backs did not arrive “So now I just checked "My Account" - still the same problems on both accounts. “During the three hours yesterday on the phone I was told I needed to register my account! “They then proceeded to completely lock me (while) trying to register my account. “The account was registered about four years ago and nothing has changed. “I can access my accounts no problem, but there are problems with them both. “I think the people I am talking with have their ears painted on. “Sitting here now on hold listening to your music!”
Address deleted
■ Alison Goodall said: “So after waiting 45 mins on the ‘live help’ to get through, I had the consultant tell me she couldnt share any information because I wasnt the account holder. Um I am the account holder! I then get told that she still can find anything with my name and DOB. I had to dig out a bill to give her a account number so that she could even find my account.”
■ Marcus Burgess writes: “ Dear Telstra, I live in Australia because I like Australia. I like talking to Australian people and most of all I like supporting Australian companies that employ Australian workers. “However, what I don't like, along with a lot of other Australians, is being told that to deal with your company that I have to deal with someone in a foreign country just so you save a few dollars. “If I wanted to speak to people in a foreign country I would live in said foreign country. There is nothing worse than going through to a call centre and speaking to someone whose fifth language is English and who just simply does not understand the nature of your enquiry. “No matter how many English language courses you put these people through, they are not Australian. So instead of forcing your customer base to ring multiple times in the vain hope of getting a rare Australian based call centre, bring them back to Australia and let Australians talk to Australians.”
These are all real stories. Customer ‘feedback’ sourced from Telstra’s 24/7 page on Facebook
■ Trent Sutton complained: “Trying to watch Foxtel on demand on T-box, but option has been removed. “Can still view Foxtel channels but not on demand. Is there still on going issues from since prior to the weekend? And when will on demand appear again”
Service ‘freezes’ ■ Mark Manscione agreed with customer Trent Sutton: “Tbox has been freezing for days and now no Foxtel on demand? What’s the go?”
‘Driving me mad’ ■ Catt McGregor said: “You people drive me mad. I bought two pre-paid internet sticks. One is dead, the other my daughter has and it chews through credit way too fast. Not a nice thing for a kid with limited funds. “When I try to ring you to complain you dare to tell me I have no rights because I don't have a password that I never put on it. “I hate passwords, they are stupid and it’s a pre-paid. Why would I lie? Honestly I am so angry, myself and my family are all ready change both our phone and internet carrier. Pull your finger out.”
‘Absolute joke’
FILE PHOTO
■ James Gwydir told Telstra: “Your call centre is an absolute joke! Get some people that can understand English! And know how to help a customer out! Utter disgrace.”
Religious saying ■ Leanne Pierce said: “When dealing with your customer service people on the phone it really is not appropriate for your staff to say "God bless you" when finishing a conversation. You are a business not a church service!” ■ Telstra staffer Scott replied: “This is definitely not standard practice and we generally steer clear of these kinds of statements.”
Losing monthly ■ Fasong Kim said: “Telstra why does it always take two or more days for my prepaid data service to kick in after recharging? “Essentially I'm losing two or more days, out of the 30 days, I get with the prepaid offer! Not. Cool.” Got a complaint about Telstra? E-mail to editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au or mail to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 95
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 90
Top 10 Lists
TYNONG IS A WINNER ■ Being part of the racing team at the Pakenham Racing Club, helping with presentations and other duties, I was invited to the announcement of the South East Racing Development at Tynong. A $70 million, 608acre racecourse development at Tynong, is being established, which will bring hundreds of jobs to the region and help keep Victoria as the premier racing state in Australia. The Premier and Minister for Racing, Dr Denis Napthine, opened proceedings in muddy conditions at the site, with media and guests transported by four-wheel drives, plus gum boots, to the centre of the course. Dr.Napthine said "This $70 million racecourse development at Tynong, Victoria's first new racecourse in more than 40 years will be a major economic boost for south-east Melbourne and West Gippsland, situated only an hours drive from Melbourne.” "Importantly, the installation of a $9 million synthetic track will make this racing facility one of the best in Australia. "This new synthetic track will be the catalyst for this development to become home to a major training and racing industry, delivering hundreds of new and ongoing jobs when the project is complete. "This new racecourse will hold up to 40 race meetings a year in addition to race days that will be transferred from other tracks affected by bad weather. "In the past three racing seasons in Victoria up to 50 race meetings a season were either abandoned or transferred. "The new track is well located, only an hour from the CBD, for 60 per cent of Melbourne's horse population, including at other major training centres at Caulfield, Cranbourne, Moe, Mornington, and Sale. Pakenham Racing Club Vice-Chairman, Simon Conn, deputising for Chairman Don Duffy, who was overseas, said the Club was thrilled to receive Government funding for the new track, which-together
Ted Ryan
● Brett Prebble aboard Lucky Nine winning the Grp 1 KrisFlyer International Sprint Photo by FAST TRACK PHOTOGRAPHY
of the synthetic track through its Victorian Racing Industry Fund, with Pakenham Racing Club contributing $4.5 million, and Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria $1.5 million. Training at the new racecourse is expected ● Zac Purton aboard Military Attack winning the Grp 1 Singapore Photo by FAST TRACK PHOTOGRAPHY to be up and running by Cup mid-2014 with racing The existing 27 having been there and him here for the Cox starting later that year hectare racecourse site done that, here and in Plate in October. and completion of the in Pakenham was Hong Kong, since synthetic track in early sold by the Club to going there back in the 2015. funds manager, ISPT, early 2000s. In addition to the in mid 2012. Now 35, Prebble synthetic track, the $70 Over coming years, is riding brilliantly. million first stage of it is expected a subWhen in Australia ■ Doomben Cup this existing develop- stantial mixed-use de- he won two Victorian winner, Beaten Up ment includes: velopment of the site jockey premierships has firmed consider■ A state of the art will occur, potentially and in recent time jour- ably for the Caulfield 2400 metre turf track; including retail, com- neyed back to pilot Cup after his strong ■ Two high-quality mercial, retirement, Crystal Lily to win win defeating Foresand training tracks; and residential lots. the Golden Slipper in teller and Lights of ■ A modern grand2010, and wrapped it Heaven convincingly. stand and customer faThe AJC Derby up last year with a brilcilities; winner, It's A liant ride to win the ■ High- quality trainMelbourne Cup for Dundeel, heads the ing infrastructure; Williams on charts at double each ■ 16 trainer allot- ■ It is great to see two Lloyd way odds, and providGreen Moon. ments; of our top young riders ing he can handle the His ride on Lucky ■ Integrated water taking all before them reverse way of gallopNine to win the Kris harvesting, treatment in Hong Kong espeing should be hard to Flyer in Hong Kong and recycling system; cially recently when beat. was a beauty. and they captured two big He disappointed at Although our Aus■ 14 hectares of dedi- prizes for their horses the Valley and again tralian runner, Bel cated wetlands area to connections. when unplaced in the protect the habitat of Brett Prebble Sprinter ran an ex- Victoria Derby, beceptional race to finish local species. needs no introduction second after being on hind Fiveandahalf Star. the wrong leg. On the next line is The other young Australian rider tak- the favorite for the ing all before him in Melbourne Cup, the Hong Kong is former grey Puissance De Queenslander, Zac Lune, who has imPurton, who finished pressed throughout, second in the Hong blitzing them in the Kong Jockey's Bendigo Cup, then the Premiership in 2011- winning L.K.S.Mc Kinnon 2012. He rode brilliantly Stakes at the Melto win the Singapore bourne Cup CarniCup over 2000 metres, val. Then we have scoring by nearly four Fiveandahalfstar at lengths. The trainer of Mili- $15 and the very good tary Attack, the win- imported galloper, ner of the Cup, Aus- Jetaway, prepared by ● The new Pakenham Racing Club track announced by the tralian John Moore David Hayes. I feel Premier, Dr Denis Napthine is looking to bringing he is a big chance also. with the turf track development at Tynongwould become a showpiece for the Victoria racing industry. "With superior design characteristics and a world-class racetrack profile, this track will revolutionise synthetic track racing in this state,"Mr. Conn said. "This is not only a milestone for the Club, but also for the local community and the Victorian racing industry". Racing Victoria Chief Executive, Bernie Saundry, welcomed the Coalition Government's investment in racing and said the addition of a second synthetic track alongside Geelong would further enhance the racing industry's infrastructure. "Whilst our programming is to be finalised, we anticipate this world-class facility hosting up to 16 synthetic meetings each year alongside its 24 turf meetings". The Coalition Government is providing $3 million towards the installation
Early market
Aussies to the fore
DORA THE EXPLORER: It's Haircut Day. BANANAS IN PYJAMAS: Banana Day. TOP BLU-RAY RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. JACK REACHER [Action/Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike]. 2. LIFE OF PI - 3D + Blu-Ray [Drama/Adventure/Irrfan Khan, Suraj Sharma]. 3. THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey 3D + Blu-Ray [Fantasy/Adventure/Martin Freeman]. 4. GANGSTER SQUAD [Crime/Drama/Action/ Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling]. 5. SKYFALL [Action/Adventure/Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Judi Dench]. 6. HITCHCOCK [Drama/Anthony Hopkins, Helen Mirren, Scarlett Johansson, Danny Huston]. 7. QUARTET [Comedy/Drama/Maggie Smith, Michael Gambon, Billy Connolly]. 8. LES MISERABLES [Musical/Drama/Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway]. 9. ARGO [Thriller/Ben Affleck, Alan Arkin, John Goodman]. 10. WRECK-IT RALPH - Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray [Animated/Family/John C. Reilly, Jack McBrayer]. Also: Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part Two, Trouble With The Curve, Parental Giudence, This is 40, Alex Cross, Schindler's List, Rise of the Guardians,, Perks of Being a Wallflower, Red Dawn, The Intouchables. In 3D + Blu-Ray Combo: Top Gun, Dredd, Frankenweenie, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: THE IMPOSSIBLE [Drama/Naomi Watts, Ewan Mc Gregor, Tom Holland]. GUILT TRIP [Comedy/Seth Rogen, Barbra Streisand]. GOATS [Comedy/David Duchovny, Vera Farmiga]. TAD THE LOST EXPLORER Blu-Ray 3D + BluRay [Animated]. - James Sherlock
Crown axes 50 jobs ■ Melbourne’s Crown Casino is set to slash up to 50 jobs, with marketing roles reported to be in the firing line. B&T Magazine says the redundancies are understood to be due to hit staff in three areas, including administration, back office and marketing. Crown’s spokesman Gary O’Neill confirmed the job cuts with B&T but would not specify how many would be made in marketing. “These reviews may lead to some positions being abolished and some new positions created,” O’Neill said. “Crown continually reviews its activities to identify opportunities for improvement. This includes reviewing back of house areas in order to improve productivity and efficiency.” The redundancies come as the multi-billion dollar company looks to cut costs as it moves to enter the Sydney market. O’Neill added: “While these reviews are still ongoing any reduction in positions is currently expected to be less than 50 which represents less than 0.8 per cent of Crown’s employees in Melbourne.” “Total employment at Crown Melbourne has been steadily increasing - for example it increased last year by more than 200 people and over the past five years has increased by more than 1000 people. Crown Melbourne currently employs 6500 people.”
Shooting in Melb. ■ As principal photography commences on crime drama The Mule, shooting in Bangkok and Melbourne, Hugo Weaving and John Noble are officially confirmed in the cast. The Mule is written by the multi-talented writers, producers, actors, directors and friends Angus Sampson and Leigh Whannell. Angus Sampson is producing The Mule together with Jane Liscombe. Executive Producers are Leigh Whannell, David Griffiths and Michele Bennett. The Mule is being produced with the assistance of Screen Australia, Film Victoria, Hopscotch and Deluxe.
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Page 96 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs
Swift start at Horsham ■ Maiden Gully trainer David Van Ryn and nephew Haydon Gray were winners at Horsham on Monday with Courage Under Fire/Delightful Emm colt Courageous Emm taking the Finn Tack 2-Y-0 Pace over 1700 metres. Beginning swiftly from gate five, Courageous Emm had little difficulty in taking the lead away from the first starter Mighty Jasper shortly after the start and was never headed, defeating Not Another De Jay (three back the markers) and Hes A Sharnia (one/two) in a mile rate of 2-00.
An unbackable favourite ■ Kialla based Laura Crossland scored a huge victory with former NSW Grinfromeartoear/Rapt In Cotton 4-Y-0 Rapt In A Rainbow at Maryborough on Wednesday, taking out the Glenferrie Farm Sweetheart Trotters Mobile for T0 class (mares) over 2190 metres. Settling one/one from gate four, Rapt In A Rainbow vacated the prime spot within a lap to park outside the almost unbackable favourite Maidstone Miss. Applying the pressure in the final circuit, the pair drew right away from their rivals with Rapt In A Rainbow outstaying Maidstone Miss to score by a 18.5 metre margin in a rate of 2-04.1, with Diedre Deville a half neck away in third place after trailing the leader.
More Magic Miles ■ Lisa Miles was successful with ever reliable Badlands Hanover/Tanya Sheffield 4-Y-0 mare Jasmine Sheffield in the Children's Tumor Foundation Pace for C2 & C4 class over 1720 metres at Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday. Given an easy time three back along the markers from gate four, Jasmine Sheffield when extricated into the clear approaching the home turn, finished her race off stylishly to score by 2.6 metres over the pacemaker Blazeaway Macray in a brilliant 1-54.9, with Hollys Miss Molly third after trailing the leader.
Big day at Maryborough ■ On what was a big day for the Goulburn Valley and Bendigo at Maryborough, Kialla's Steve O'Donoghue and Bec Bartley were successful with 8-Y-0 Mach Three/White Russian gelding Kremlin in the Responsible Gambling Awareness Week Pace for C3 & C4 class over 1690 metres and Glenn Douglas captured the Welcome Home Emily Hayes 3-Y-0 Pace over 1690 metres with Art Major/Bella Joy filly Rogers Joy. Kremlin from the pole trailed the leader Drunken Desire, before using the sprint lane to score over him and Narra Operative in a rate of 1-56.8, while Rogers Joy led throughout from gate five in defeating Earth Angel and Jodila in 1-59.6.
Scored untouched ■ Mt Cottrell trainer Bill Galea made a return to the racetrack in style at Kilmore on Tuesday May 21, when smart Art Major/Galleons Bud colt Major Calypso blitzed his rivals in the Momentum Pace for C1 class over 1690 metres. Driven by Nathan Jack, Major Calypso began with a wing on every foot from outside the front row to lead running into the first turn and once there, had the race in his keeping a long way from home. Kicking clear at the straight entrance, Major Calypso scored untouched by 7.1 metres in a rate of 159 over Manny Tiavon which trailed, with Yes Jerry third after following the pair. It was Major Calypso's fifth victory in 28 outings.
Horses to follow ■ In Jet Spirit, The Numbers Man, Rocket Trip, Exciteusinthecity, Happy Hombre, Fill Up, Magic Moment Lombo, Not Another De Jay, Kankkunen.
OUR SIXPENCE WINS ‘QUEEN OF PACIFIC’ ■ Outstanding six-yearold Our Sixpence, a Kiwi bred daughter of the great Holmes Hanover and Have A Go Franco showed her versatility when a brilliant victor of the $100,000 (Group 1) SEWEurodrive Queen Of The Pacific, a Discretionary Handicap event for mares M0 or better over 2760 metres held at Victoria's harness headquarters Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday May 24, giving Cobbity trainer Belinda McCarthy and reinsman husband Luke another feature in what's been a fantastic season for them. A winner of the Ladyship Mile at Menangle on Inter Dominion Grand Final day and the Young Cup (2400 metres) two weeks later, Our Sixpence began safely in the capacity 14 horse field from the 10 metre mark to settle mid-field in the running line, with another NSW visitor Giggling Girl whizzing away from outside the front line to cross the South Australian Aitch Cue entering the straight on the first occasion. Luke said following the race that he did have concerns with both stable runners Our Sixpence and Baby Bling stepping cleanly. Letting rip with around 1800 metres to travel, Our Sixpence in what was the ‘drive of the night’ by McCarthy joined the front runner, gaining cover shortly after when Matt Rue sent the 20 metre lone backmarker Baby Bling forward from last to park in the open with a circuit to travel. Both McCarthy mares were travelling beautifully in the last lap, with Baby Bling surging to the front approaching the final bend with Our Sixpence poised to pounce. Given full rein on turning, Our Sixpence careered away to score by 9.2 metres in a rate of 159.1 (last half mile 58.9 quarter 29.4) over Aitch Cue which ran the race of her life, with Bellas Delight using inside runs from five back the markers to finish third in advance of Broadways Best and Baby Bling. Raced by Victorian Harvey Kaplan in partnership with JJ Gibson, Our Sixpence has fronted the starter on 69 occasions for 25 wins and 14 placings, taking her stake earnings to $590,277 by the end of the night.
Tough run ■ Bolinda based trainer Brent Lilley was victori-
Baker’s Delight
Harness Racing
This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Melbourne
Observer
len-baker@ bigpond.com
with Len Baker
ous with 4-Y-0 Zooma/ Rememberance Day gelding Zedalite at his home track Kilmore on Tuesday May 21, taking out the Race Into Trackside By Bus Trotters Mobile for T2 to T4 class over 2180 metres. Returning from a successful trip to Adelaide where he won and was placed from two outings, Zedalite was trapped wide from gate five, before sent forward by Rod Petroff to park outside the speedy leader Mister Gunsen which flew the gate from barrier six. Despite the tough passage, Zedalite showed his staying qualities to wear down the leader in the shadows of the post and gain the day by a neck in a rate of 2-03.7, with Apollorita using the sprint lane for third (1.4 metres away) after trailing the front runner. It was Zedalite's 14th victory in 48 outings.
Grand style ■ Monegeetta's Lisa and David Miles churned out another winner when recent stable addition American Para snared the Fosters Pace for C0 class over 1690 metres at Kilmore. A 6-Y-0 daughter of AllamericanTheory and Bad Timing Para having her second outing for the stable, American Para from gate six spent the entire race parked outside the leader Soho Jolie (gate three). Asked to rally on straightening, American Para responded in grand style to overhaul Soho Jolie over the concluding stages, scoring by 1.4 metres in a rate of 2-02, with Charlienme third from three back in the moving line.
Effortless ■ Bolinda trainer/driver Chris Alford's Yankee Spider/Rockolina gelding Miracle made it four from five with an effortless all of the way victory in the
second Heat of the Tatlow Stakes for 2-Y-0 Trotters over 2190 metres at Maryborough on Wednesday. Travelling smoothly throughout, Miracle cruised to the wire 7.7 metres in advance of Asdenro which raced in the open and Spidergrace (three back the markers) on debut.
Honest try
■ Elmore trainer/driver Matthew Higgins' very honest The Wrath Of Pan/Ata Guide 4-Y-0 gelding Dynamic Dude registered his seventh victory in 46 outings when successful in the KRC Facebook ‘Like’ Competition Pacers Handicap for C2 or better class over 2150 metres at Kilmore on Tuesday May 21. Stepping cleanly from outside the front row (there were only four) to lead, Dynamic Dude was rated a treat and kicked away on the final bend with the race in his keeping, scoring by 6.9 metres in a rate of 2-02.9 over My Sign which trailed making no impression over the concluding stages, with Starlight Logan third after following the pair.
Much delight
■ Invergordon's Ian Ward was also a winner at Kilmore, when Blissful Hall/Picketwithapin gelding Nuggets Brother greeted the judge in the Link To KRC Phone App 3-Y-0 Vicbred Pace over 2180 metres much to the delight of owner/breeder Ray McVilly. With champion reinsman Chris Alford in the sulky, Nuggets Brother ($25.50) possied three back in the running line after starting outside the front row, with the oddson favourite Valley Of Diamonds leading from gate five. Trailing up Magic Moment Lombo three wide in the last lap which sprinted like a gazelle to lead on turning, Nuggets Brother proved to be a little too strong on reaching the wire to score by a head in 2-03.6. - Len Baker
Wednesday - Charlton/Geelong, Thursday - Hamilton/Shepparton, Friday - Melton, Saturday - Ballarat, Sunday - Cranbourne, Monday - Maryborough, Tuesday - Mildura.
Two wins in succession ■ Long Forest duo Andy and Kate Gath were victorious with 6-Y-0 Village Jasper/Salisbury Downs gelding Sarum Knight in the Ballarat Surgical Clinic Claiming Pace over 2200 metres at Bray Raceway Ballarat on Wednesday, making it two wins in succession. Commencing swiftly from gate four, Sarum Knight led virtually throughout in defeating Lota Vision which trailed by a half head only in a rate of 1-59.6, with Washies Chance third after moving to race in the open at the bell.
Winners at Ballarat ■ Melton pair Ross and Greg Sugars were also winners at Ballarat, when quality 4-Y-0 Bettors Delight/Machane mare La Machane greeted the judge in the Robert Benoit Tennis Pace for C5 & C6 class over 2200 metres. Restrained to the rear from outside the front row, La Machane despite making the final bend four wide, rattled home to defeat a death-seating Exciteusinthecity by a head in a rate of 1-57.3, with Now Shezaterror (three back the markers) third.
Cosy passage at Melton ■ Glen Park trainer Sebastian Steenhuis received the thrill of a lifetime at Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday, when his Metropolitan/Bye The Deep South filly Tallulah Bay raced by the Steenhuis family, greeted the judge in the $50,000 Decron Horse Care Tatlow Stakes for 2-Y-0 Fillies over 2240 metres. Driven by Greg Sugars, Tallulah Bay from inside the second line enjoyed a cosy passage three back the markers, with the favourite Distant Memory leading from gate two. With plenty of pressure being applied mid-race as the well supported My Bella Starr moved to race in the open, Tallulah Bay was always travelling smoothly. Extricated into the clear on straightening, Tallulah Bay finished her race off in grand style to score by 5.5 metres over Shes A Runa (one/one) and Colleens Medley (one/two) in a rate of 1-59.7.
This one is very special ■ Daylesford trainer Bob Conroy has had many smart horses through his hands over a long period of time - two of the best being pacer Lincoln Star and trotter Amazon, but may have something special in 4-Y-0 Goodboytruscott/Making Music mare Barbra Jean who was most impressive in winning the Hot To Trot Trotters Handicap for T0 & T1 class over 2150 metres at Kilmore on Tuesday May 21. Driven by daughter Anne-Maree, Barbra Jean stepped cleanly from the 10 metre mark to settle four back along the markers, with the old timer Look Here Bloke being sent forward from the same handicap to stride past the leader Kains Boy entering the back straight on the first occasion. Easing into the open at the bell, Barbra Jean was always travelling beautifully and was able to drop down to the markers approaching the home turn to trail the leader into the straight. Making full use of the sprint lane, Barbra Jean dashed to the front over the concluding stages to score by 4.8 metres in a rate of 2-08.8 over Look Here Bloke, with Starlight Lee running home late when clear of a pocket on turning to finish third. It was Barbra Jean's second victory in six outings.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 97
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 99
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
FANTASTIC INDIGENOUS ROUND
■ What a fantastic weekend of football promotion for the AFL. The Indigenous Round highlighted features galore not the least the Adam Goodes personal slur on him. His reaction, then forgiveness and support for the young 13-year-old girl, is not only commendable but highlights the character and leadership of this dynamic young man. How proud his family, his Sydney football club, team-mates, his indigenous race and the AFL family must be as we stand tall in his shadow. Twenty years ago his ‘brother’ Nicky Winmar, the Saint, lifted his guernsey with pride and showed the sporting world the colour of his skin. Nicky’s gesture bared more than his body – he bared the soul of the Aborigines and their right to be accepted not only in sport but also in the community. Above all it started a crusade embraced by the AFL to eradicate racist comments in our game and the wider communities. I was brought up with Aboriginal friends and mates in Fitzroy. I too boast with pride my close association with Pastor (later knighted Sir) Douglas Nicholls and support the push for him to be honoured with a statue which I shall embrace in my next column. Meantime I commend and broadcast to the sporting world the gesture of Adam Goodes’ attitude and approach to his deep hurt. In my view it will do more to elimi
Melbourne and GWS a ‘walkover’. Both are vital to the AFL’s future. Melbourne because it is the original foundling club in 1859 and GWS is the latest in 2010. Both must survive. GCSuns, Western Bulldogs, Port Adelaide, Richmond, North Melbourne, Essendon and Brisbane are all competitive as the current Ladder shows.
This week’s AFL ladder
Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel nate racism than any regulations and laws. Forgiveness is big – it takes courage.
Busy 10 days
■ It has been a frustrating 10 days with the ‘shifting’ and waiting on the transfer of the phone lines. My thanks for your 152 emails which piled up while I was “off the air”! I’m certain Andrew D will be pleased the way the competitive season is progressing with only two teams
■ Hawthorn and Geelong 32 pts; Essendon 28; Fremantle and Sydney 26; (then 6 teams on 5 wins in % order) WCE, Adelaide, Carlton (top 8), Port Adelaide, Richmond, Collingwood all 20 pts; Gold Coast 16; North Melbourne and Brisbane 12; St Kilda and W.Bull 8; Melbourne 4; GWS 0. Round 10 Fri Bris v Coll; Sat. Carl v GWS, Adel v Freo, Syd v Ess, Geel v GCS, W.Bull v Port Adel; Sun Melb v Haw, North Mel v St Kil, WCE v Rich. And there will be more ‘cut-throat’ games to come each week!
ROUND 10 Friday, May 31 Brisbane Lions vs. Collingwood (G) (N) Saturday, June 1 Carlton vs. GWS Giants (ES) Adelaide Crows vs. Fremantle (AS) Sydney Swans vs. Essendon (SCG) (T) Geelong Cats vs. Gold Coast Suns (SS) (N) Western Bulldogs vs. Port Adelaide (TIO) (N) Sunday, June 2 Melbourne vs. Hawthorn (MCG) North Melbourne vs. St Kilda (ES) (T) Monday, June 3 West Coast Eagles vs. Richmond (PS) (N)
Twitter explosion ■ Adam Goodes's stance against racism made a powerful impact over the weekend, with a tweet he wrote in support of the girl at the centre of the incident being re-tweeted almost 4000 times, reports James Dampney of
Showbiz People
● Adam Goodes AFL.com.au - Goodes, who only joined Twitter earlier this year, also had his number of followers swell from 4000 to nearly 16,000.
ShowBiz Social Club at Bentleigh Club Monday, May 27 Photos: Gigi Hellmuth
● Sylvester Kroyherr, vocalist and guitarist
● Allan Smith, drums; Ken Forbes, vocalist; Ivan Videky, bass.
● Gary Russell, vocalist and guitarist
● Neville Turner, pianist
● Judee Horin, President ShowBiz Social Club, Will Conyers and Norman Camm
● Ray Haynes, pianist and vocalist
Page 100 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Melbourne
Observer
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Travellers’Good Buys
with David Ellis
Seadreaming through St Tropez: wine not? ■ He is like some modern-day Pied Piper, except that it’s not children he’s leading through the town square, but adults – 60-something of us mesmerised by the promises of what he says lays ahead. It’s a Sunday morning and we’re in St Tropez on the French Riviera, playground of jetsetters, millionaires, movie and catwalk hopefuls. Where Brigitte Bardot was a pioneer of topless sunbathing on the local beach… and where she later shot to stardom in the 1956 movie And God Created Woman, leading a million men into premature-gibbering, and in more-severe cases, blindness. But we’re not heading to the beach. Our Pied Piper – in reality Tomasz Kozlowski, executive chef aboard the boutique mega motor-cruiser SeaDream II that’s sailing 7-nights from Nice to Barcelona – is leading us to a little town square where he’s organised a tasting of local Rosé wines, cheeses, nuts and olives, breads and biscuits, and what turns out to be a ripper traditional St Tropez onion tart. A few days earlier we’d done a market tour with Chef Tomasz at another port, some 25 of SeaDream’s 81 guests enjoying the spectacle of him gesticulating with traders over produce he’s buying for that night’s evening cocktail gathering, and giving us tastings of their local fruits and other market produce. So popular was it, that today in St
● SeaDream Chef Tomasz in St Tropez with bottle
Observer Wines & Liqueurs Melbourne
with David Ellis
Pinot Grigio: greener shades of grey ■ The French have been making pinot gris for yonks, with references to it going back as far as the 14th century, while later it found its way to Italy where its grown and labelled as pinot grigio and is now one of the most popular white wine varieties imported into many regions in the USA. And it’s gaining growing fans here in Australia too, in the last decade or so locally-made versions moving from somewhere down in the “alternative white wine” category, to more worthy mainstream recognition – in particular those made in our cooler regions. But there are some makers turning out marvellously credible pinot grigio in warmer areas too: in the Hunter Valley, for instance, David Hook Wines was somewhat of a pinot grigio pioneer in that region in the late 1980s, with David producing consistently excellent examples ever since from his family’s one-time grazing property at Pokolbin. ‘Grigio’ is Italian for grey and while many pinot grigio in their homeland have a grey shade about them, in Australia such is not always the case. David Hook’s recently-released 2012, for instance, is a bright medium green with yellow and gold tinges, and is a wonderfully steely dry drop that’s nicely balanced between fruitiness and acidity At a great-value $18 and with forward tropical fruit flavours and a touch of spice, serve this David Hook Pinot Grigio well-chilled with mixed fried seafoods, or Thai beef salad.
One to note ■ Another interesting drop from one of the Hunter’s smaller makers is a 2011 LDR Shiraz from the family-run De Iuliis Wines, whose Chief Winemaker, Mike (“MickeyD”) de luliis has crafted a drop that’s great for enjoyment now, but will improve marvellously over the next five years – so think cellaring a few for the future. Made from fruit grown on heavy clay soils, this wine’s already showing all signs of being a Hunter classic – medium to full-bodied with a soft mouth feel of fine grained tannins, ripe plums and blackberries, and at $40 its one to give good thought to for a special occasion dinner with spicy peppered scotch fillets under a creamy mushroom sauce.
Pictured ■ Serve well-chilled with mixed fried seafoods, or a Thai beef salad. ■ Potential Hunter classic? Think about this with peppered scotch fillets under a creamy mushroom sauce.
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Tropez it’s not 25 guests have decided to come along, but well over 60. And we’re well-rewarded: after passing through what we think is just an alleyway of a few small food stores, we emerge into a picturesque village-like square. And Tomasz leads our conga line to an open-fronted wine shop at which the owner has set up trestle tables to which others in the square have brought samples of their produce for us to try alongside his wines. It’s only just after 10 o’clock and there are fewer than a dozen local Tropeziens already out for Sunday shopping: they appear both bemused and delighted at the presence of our group from 14 nations who’ve crowded into their square, some enquiring as to where we are from, others asking our impressions of their town… And the various traders who’ve brought their produce over for us to try, speak enthusiastically about their offerings. But it’s Chef Tomasz who is the star: arms constantly flaying – “I talk with my hands!” he says – he describes in minute detail the food items we are tasting, and the Rosé wines that are made from not only grapes, but from peaches as well … We’re offered one, and wonder if at this early hour it’s a good idea – but seeing our fellow guests getting stuck into theirs, and smacking their lips in satisfaction, we decide that it may be ten a.m. in St Tropez, but it’s got to be already “wine o’clock” somewhere else in the world. And our hosts don’t skimp: glasses are filled and re-filled with the different Rosés, empty plates whisked away to be replenished with fresh offerings, and while Chef Tomasz has said that our tasting will “be about an hour,” we are there for nearly double that, relishing every moment, every mouthful. And when we are told that all good things must reluctantly come to an end, we say fond thanks and sad farewells to our wonderful Tropezien hosts – while Tomasz and several of his staff whom he’s brought from SeaDream II load up bags and boxes with all manner of the produce we’ve sampled… and which he’ll feature in that night’s regular pre-dinner Cocktails aboard SeaDream II. On the way back to our mega-motor cruiser Chef Tomasz tells us how he’s always loved food and cooking, learning much from his mother whom he idolised for her culinary skills, and which led him to go into cooking school as a teenager. After stints in shore-side restaurants after graduation, he worked on several large ships catering to 2000 to 3000 guests each, but quickly decided that that wasn’t for him. So he joined SeaDream Yacht Club in 2002 – and with a maximum of just 112-guests, is just as enthusiastic today as he was when he joined eleven years ago. For information about sailing aboard the boutique SeaDream II and twin-sister SeaDream I, see travel agents or visit www.seadream.com
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 29, 2013 - Page 101
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