Melbourne Observer. 120530C. May 30, 2012. Part C. Pages 54-58, Pages 61-76

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Victoria Pictorial

Victorian Post Offices

● Essendon Airport Post Office. 1960s.

● Hamilton Post Office. 1901.

● Orbost Post Office. Circa 1898.

● Walhalla Post Office. 1897.

● Narbethong Post Office. 1925.

● Mirboo North Post Office. 1912.

● Lilydale Post and Telegraph Office. 1916.

● Belgrave Post Office

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012 - Page 57

Real Estate News

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012 - Page 61

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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Independent Theatre: Latest shows ............. Page 65 Radio Confidential: Luke works overnight ........ Page 62 The Spoiler: Next week’s ‘soaps’ plotlines ............ Page 63 Jim and Aaron: Best DVD-film selections ................. Page 64 Cheryl Threadgold: Community Theatre - it’s a wrap ...... Page 65 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD

10-MINUTE QUICKIES WINNERS ● Eltham Little Theatre President Carole Owen and Ticket Secretary, Pat Croft. Photos: Malcolm Threadgold

■ Interstate playwrights flew into Eltham last weekend for the sparkling Awards Night to announce the winners in Eltham Little Theatre’s 10-minute play competition, the Ten Minute Quickies.

Melbourne playwright and secondary school teacher Kylie Rackham scooped the pool with her riveting drama, On The Edge, about a chance meeting of two strangers intent on suicide.

Kylie won the $1000 Best Play Award and her play was also voted the most popular by the audience for the $500 People’s Choice Award.

Kristen Field won the $300 Youth Category Award for her play I Am, and Best Director Award went to Paula Armstrong, Best Female Actor Award to Gabby LlewelynSalter and Best Male Actor Award to Brett Hyland.

Congratulations to Eltham Little Theatre for encouraging the work of Australian playwrights and for presenting such a successful, sell-out event.

- Cheryl Threadgold

Annie The Musical opening night Photos: Jim Lee

● Caitlin Marks of Airport West is one of the three Annies in the Melbourne production.

● Directors Bert Fine and Brooke Cowley

Moonshadow opens in Melb.

■ Sofitel Melbourne On Collins will host a magical after-party for the world premiere of Moonshadow which opens at the Princess Theatre tomorrow (Thurs.) night.

Underscored by the music of Cat Stevens, Moonshadow takes the audience on a journey with the mystical story of a young man and his struggle in a world of darkness where evil rules by night, but somewhere in the shadows the hero, Stormy, journeys with his companion Moonshadow to find the hidden world of light and happiness.

Sofitel's after party will follow these themes of darkness and light reflecting the elements of the show.

Guests will be transported to a foreign planet, another place in the universe, with the themeing by the Sofitel and Moonshadow creative teams, enticing them to wander and discover the different lighting elements.

Star cloths, moon beams, special effect lights, and stars in space will all add to the magic of the evening for the 800 VIP guests who will be attending.

Jazz music has been selected by Yusuf (Cat Stevens) who has also requested Halal food and a mystical (non alcoholic) cocktail.

More than 150 staff including 22 chefs will be required on the night, and more than 1000 hours will be spent on set up, service and pack down for the event General Manager Clive Scott said: “As with all opening night parties the experience of the show must continue into the hotel.

“We will take major feature points from Moonshadow, recreating scenes in the hotel with elements of darkness and light. There is a skill to laying out and decorating a venue for large numbers. You must decorate for the flow of people around the party, not just for the sake of decoration.”

● Karen Dowling and Jeanette Flint

Songs of the Sea ■ The sea has always had a mysterious power over mankind. Countless composers and authors have used the fascination of the sea as a basis for inspirational music and story.

New classical music group Songmakers Australia is also embracing the sea as an inspiration for their forthcoming concert called Sea Pictures at The Salon at Melbourne Recital Centre on Friday, June 15 at 6 pm.

Mezzo-soprano Sally-Anne Russell, bass-baritone Nicholas Dinopoulos and piano accompanist Andrea Katz will perform songs from around Europe that made their way to Australia on sailing ships during one of the most expansive human migrations in history.

The program will include the song cycle L'horizon chimerique by Faure, and the much-loved British Sea Pictures by Elgar, and Brahms Duets opus 28.

Tickets are $30 - $35 from www.melbournerecital.com or 9699 3333.

- Julie Houghton

● Julie Goodwin (Grace) and Anthony Warlow (Daddy Warbucks) with the orphans in Annie

● Nancye Hayes (Miss Hannigan), Todd McKenney (Rooster) and Chloe Dallimore (Lily)

● Sally-Anne Russell

● Caitlin Marks (Annie) with Sandy (Buddy)

Page 62 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Observer Showbiz

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria

LUKE GRANT BOBS UP OVERNIGHT

Country Crossroads

MTR UTILITY MAN FOLLOWS STEVE PRICE TO SYDNEY

info@country crossroads.com.au ● Big Breakfast Show.

Southern FM 88.3.

Tues. 6am-9am. ● Country Crossroads.

Casey Radio 97.7.

Wed. 10pm-12 Midnight

Big event in September Rob Foenander

TOMMY ON TOUR

■ Guitar maestro Tommy Emmanuel's Live and Acoustic Tour kicks off on August 5 with performances scheduled for all capital cities.

Melbourne fans can see him on August 11 at Hamer Hall.

Tommy now has his own online TV channel where fans get access to exclusive performance videos, interactive lessons, engaging interviews and more.

Info at www.tommyemmanuel.com

KEITH, TOP OF THE CHARTS

■ Keith Urban is not only enjoying the success of his role in the hit TV show, The Voice, but is also now sitting at the top of the ARIA charts.

The Story So Far is the country music star’s latest work and features some of his biggest hits to date.

Urban's Facebook page has three million fans and growing. No doubt, some of this can be attributed to his profile on the show.

FEDERAL GOVT. HELPS

■ A $30,000 grant from the Federal Government has taken the fundraising for the Slim and Joy Statue Appeal to more halfway to its target..

The statue, to be erected in Tamworth, will recognise the huge contribution Slim Dusty and Joy McKean have made to Australia's musical heritage and for the important part they played in helping to establish Tamworth as country music capital.

DENI UNTE MASTER

■ Kelly Clarkson will be the headline attraction at this year’s Deni Ute Muster scheduled for September 28-29.

Along with Kelly, Lee Kernaghan, John Williamson, The McClymonts and McAlister Kemp will all be returning for the annual event that raises thousands for charity.

More info: www.deniutemuster.com.au ■ Melbourne Fringe Festival and Darebin City Council's Darebin Music Feast are announcing that the two festivals will be embarking on a new, independent music partnership this year.

r Observbei z Show

● Luke Grant ■ In the short life of Melbourne Talk Radio 1377, Luke Grant was always a loyal lieutenant to Program Director Steve Price. He gathered a small, loyal group of fans.

Luke worked most shifts, including the evening In Melbourne Tonight show vacated

by Glenn Ridge, and the ‘drive’ program after Martin King left the station.

Grant has followed his boss to Sydney headquarters (2GB), and is hosting a few mornings (Thursday,s Fridays) of the 3.30am Wake Up Australia program, preceding the Alan Jones show.

Melbourne fans can access Luke Grant’s shows by listening to the live streaming programs on the 2GB.com website.

● Libbi Gorr

Short waves ■ The next radio ratingsd survey results are due to be released on Tuesday, June 19.

■ Was that 12 ads in a row on the newly-formated Smooth FM 91.5? They won’t win many new listeners if that is the policy.

■ Jason Bouman alleges that he was unfairly sacked by the Australian Traffic Network.

■ The Historical Radio Society of Australia is staging a large two-day event at Springvale Town Hall in September.

More than 1000 radios, vintage magazines and radio parts will be on display, plus there will be a display of images from the golden days of radio and TV. More details will be published in this column over coming weeks.

Radio Fest at Ashburton ■ The Historical Radio Society of Australia is staging a Radio Fest market this Saturday (June 2) at Ashburton Primary School.

Spokesman Kevin Poulter says that the event is open to

the public and is that admission is free.

“The Historical Radio Society of Australia is a non-profit society of 1200 members around Australia.

“We collect and restore valve and transistor radios, plus some ex-military radios, microphones and TV. “It is a great chance for people to see and buy items rarely available anywhere else,” Kevin said.

More details are available at: www.ozradios.com

The Story So Far

■ Hosts Sunny Leunig and 3RRR's Jacinta Parsons, with Nat Camilleri, are putting together a series of shows at the Bella Union Bar in July, featuring Kim Salmon,Angie Hart, Joe Camilleri, Dan Kelly, Jane Clifton and others.

Melbourne Radio Flashbacks

Grubby talks on the ABC ■ Gold 104.3 may have underestimated the fan base of ‘Grubby and Dee Dee’ when they sacked Peter Stubbs and Diane Dunleavy late last year.

But ABC 774 weekend host Libbi Gorr has not. Libbi had Peter Stubbs (brother of 774 weekday afternoon host Richard Stubbs) on her program last weekend.

‘Grubby’ spoke of his passion for the Sydney Swans football side, and the discussion looked at the side’s 25 years in the harbour city.

● Radio enthusaist Chris Keating, who works on 96.5 Inner FM and Plenty Valley FM, has supplied this photo of 3DB’s Flying Tadpole, a Republic Seabee aircraft. This was a familiar sight around Victorian beaches when shark watch broadcasts were in vogue. The aircraft is said to have been restored, although not airworthy. Discussion on the Flying Tadpole continues at the Australian Radio group on Facebook.

Melbourne

Observer

On This Day

Wednesday, Thursday, May 31 May 30

Friday, June 1

Saturday, June 2

Sunday, June 3

Monday, June 4

Tuesday, June 5

■ Cartoon voice man Mel Blanc was born in 1908. He died aged 81 in 1989.

Band leader Benny Goodman was born in 1909. He died aged 77 in 1986.

Stage singer Jill Perryman was born in Melbourne in 1933 (79). She starred in Funny Girl.

■ Actress Marilyn Monroe was born in 1926. She died aged 36 in 1962.

American actor Andy Griffith is 86 (1926).

US singer and actor Pat Boone is 78. He was born in Florida.

Actor Morgan Freeman was born in Memphis in 1937 (75).

■ 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 75.

US pianist Marvin Hamlisch is 68.

Jerry Mathers, actor known as ‘The Beaver’, is 64 (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 62 (1950).

Singer Dan Hill was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1954. He is 58 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, was born in 1942 (70).

Actress Angelique Jolie is 37 (1975).

■ US actor Bill Hayes (Days Of Our Lives) is 86 (1926).

Nutritionist Rosemary Stanton was born in 1944 (68).

Actress Joanna Lockwod was born on this day.

Musician Kenny G is 56 (1956).

Aussie actress Toni Pearon is 40 (1972).

■ US actor-director Clint Eastwood was born in San Francisco in 1930 (82).

Guitarist Tommy Emmanuel was born in 1955 (57).

Footballer and politician Justin Madden is 51.

Entertainer and dancer Todd McKenney was born in Perth in 1965 (47).

Model Sarah Murdoch (O’Hare) is 40 today.

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 30, 2012 - Page 63

ShowBiz!

Observer Showbiz

TV, Radio, Theatre Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour

HUGE ‘ANNIE’ AFTER-SHOW PARTY

● Rhonda Burchmore ■ One of Melbourne’s big showbiz parties was continuing in the early hours of this morning (Wed.) after last night’s opening performance of Annie The Musical.

Producer John Frost organised a massive partyat the Long Room in the Georges Building in Collins St, opposite the Regent Theatre.

Guests wore a touch of red. On the invitation list were Melissa Bergland (Winners and Losers), Shane Bourne, Rhonda Burchmore, Debra Byrne, Ashleigh Brewer (Neighbours), Kate Ceberano. Jason Coleman, Kimberley Davies, Stefan Dennis (Neighbours), Brigitte Duclos, Brendan Fevola and Marty Fields.

Also on the red carpet list were Caroline Gillmer and Tony Bartuccio, Gyton Grantley, Jennifer Hansen, Brodie Harper, Melissa and Matt Hetherington, James Hird, David Hobson, Josh Horner, John-Michael Howson, Dave Hughes,

Shane Jacobson, Kaiya Jones (Neighbours), Jennifer Keyte, Kate Langbroek and Mike Larkan.

Publicist J P Bolton handled acceptances from Dylan Lewis, Alicia Loxley, Mick Malthouse, Colette Mann, Brian Mannix,Catherine McClements, Paul Mercurio, Eve Morey (Neighbours). Bob Morley (Neighbours), Brian Nankervis and Livinia Nixon, Other celebrities on the A-list for the big party were Shannon Noll, Valentina Novakovic (Neighbours), Silvie Paladino, Simon Phillips, Sigrid Thornton, Gemma Pranita, Jeanne Pratt, Marina Prior and Grant Piro, Stephen Quatermain, Helen Riche, Denise Scott, Pete Smith and Daryl Somers.

Sorry to hear the news

● Wilbur Wilde ■ Close friends were dismayed to see a post thjis week on the Facebook

Veritas Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic page of Melbourne entertainer Wilbur Wilde (Nicholas Aitken) that his marital status is now single.

Animation Festival

No new jobs for Bert

● Gary McQuade ■ 3AW newsman Gary McQuade did not hold back on social media to name and give his opinion of the man who took his family car.

Gary called the thief a “dead-shit-no-hope” and a “mungrel skunk”.

He alleged the man orchestrated the takingof his wife's car, which was eventually located with about $1000 damage.

Gary commented that he is letting the Police do their work.

■ The Melbourne International Animation Festival will be held from June 17-24 at the ACMI Cinemas, Australian Centre for the Moving Image, Federation Square.

There will be more than 400 films selected from 2000 entries from 30 countries.

Now in its 12th year, the Festival includes historical and recently released films, forums and Australian showcases.

The festival will celebrate the work of Alex Stitt, an Australian animation pioneer, responsible for for TV campaigns such as Life Be In It.

Brian heads list at Heart of St Kilda

Reasons To Be Pretty

Extra YTT concerts

● Rob Mills and the YTT gang ■ The TV show ratings may not be anything special foir Young Talent Time, but the tour tickets are selling extraordinarily well, according to organisers.

Melbourne is getting a fifth andixth show added to the popular national tour schedule.

On Friday and Saturday, July 13 and 14 there will be shows at 2.30pm and 6.30pm at Palms At Crown.

General admission tickets are $65.

There will be shows at 11am and 3pm on Sunday, July 15.

“The huge success of our July holiday tour proves that our Aussie audience is keen for good, family entertainment. The YTT team will perform all their favourite hits and give their fans a show to remember,” saysMark Morrissey, tour promoter and manager

★

Iconic performer Barry Humphries surprised ABC executives when he used his appearance on Q&A on Monday night to describe politician Craig Thomson as a “liar”.

Humphries made the allegation more than once. He was appearing on a show discussing the role of satire in Australian politics alongside other panellists including Miriam Margoyles, Jacki Weaver, John Hewson and David Marr.

★

Blast for car loss

● Patti Newton ■ Bert Newton is considering several new assignments, but the couple has a few matters on the horizon, his wife Patti told her 3AW Nightline audience on Monday night.

Their son Matthew is due to front court in Miami, USA, on July 25, on a number of separate charges including allegations of battery and resisting arrest.

It is not known whether Bert and Patti intend to be in America at that time to support their son.

Star Bursts

Gold 104.3 FM breakfast pair Anthony Lehmann and Brigitte Duclos are trying desperately to generate publicity for their troubled breakfast program. ‘Lehmo’ cleaned car windows at the busy Swan St.-Punt Rd intersection in Richmond on Monday morning after the Tigers’ AFL win at the weekend.

This followed an appearance by player Jack Riewoldt on Friday.

The Spoiler For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven.

■ Monday, June 4. Kyle is helping Sheila to run a street party for the Queen’s Jubilee, but is upset when an increasingly distant Jade refuses to take part; Troy's presence in Ramsay Street is stressing Sonya.

■ Tuesday, June 5. Toadie and Sonya struggle to bottle up their stress and ignore Troy as he charms his new neighbours at the street party; Kyle struggles with Kate’s revelation ■ Wednesday, June 6. Terrified she could lose the baby, Toadie and Sonya rush to the hospital after her collapse; Lou brushes up on how to be British in order to be Dawn’s tour guide of the British Isles.

■ Thursday, June 7. Paul is keen to move things along romantically with Zoe; Jade manages to reconcile with Sonya, but leaves Kyle on the outer.

■ Friday, June 8. Struggling with how she sees herself, Tash fails to embrace her talents; Karl and Ajay’s band becomes less of a hobby and more of a burden when Andrew pressures them to find a bass player.

Home and Away

● Marina Prior ■ Melbourne entertainer Marina Prior is listed to be one of the opening night guests for opening night for Neil Labute’s Reasons To Be Pretty at Theatre Works, St Kilda, tomorrow (Thurs.) night.

The A-list at this event is said to include Brett Tucker, Gyton Grantley, Grant Piro, Adam Zwar, Amanda Brotchie and Lachy Hulme.

The show features actor Paul Denny.

● Brian Nankervis ■ Tickjets have just gone on sale for the Heart of St Kilda Concert to be held at the Palais Theatre on Wednesday July 18.

The big concert, to be hosted by Brian Nankervis, is being held for the fifth year, and publicist Julie Cavanagah says it has the biggest line-up to date.

The Heart of St Kilda Concert supports St Kilda`s Sacred Heart Mission, whose work in the community provides food, clothing, emergency relief, accommodation and companionship to those in crisis who need immediate support and assistance.

Some of the performers already confirmed are: Lanie Lane, Lawrence Mooney, Tim Rogers, Fiona O’Laughlin, Normie Rowe, Nick Barker, Cal Wilson and Stonefield.

Every day of the year Sacred Heart Mission provides free breakfasts and three course hot lunches to people who are homeless or living in poverty in the St Kilda area.

Tickets are sale through Ticketmaster, 136 100. www.ticketmaster.com.au

■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7.

■ Monday, June 4. Jett confesses to Marilyn that he was the one that mugged her Alf collapses and is rushed to hospital. Dex is upset that Sasha is using him, and his brain, to get closer to Casey.

■ Tuesday, June 5. After his mother is found dead, Jett is sent to live with a foster family. Logan returns to Summer Bay, only to realise that Indi is still in love with Romeo. Liam is forced to question whether Hayley really is ready for a new life.

■ Wednesday, June 6. Ruby asks Indi to let Romeo go. Alf is still weary of Harvey and Roo's relationship. Liam is worried about Heath's involvement in Hayley's life. A discrepancy in Danny Braxton's court case brings hope for an early release ■ Thursday, June 7. Heath and Bianca are forced to discuss what to do if there are any complications with the birth. Brax learns about Heath's plan to get their dad out of jail which leads Brax to visit his father in jail for the first time.

■ Friday, June 8. April is upset at Heath for asking to save the baby over Bianca. Casey learns about Heath trying to get their father out of jail. Dex realises he still has feelings for April and is torn with what to do about Lottie. Harvey tells Mel that he needs to sell their house to pay his fines

Page 64 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Observer Showbiz DVD & Blu-Ray Recommendations

● George Clooney as the troubled father and Shailene Woodley as the daughter are a standout in the Oscar winning film The Descendants.

FILM: THE DESCENDANTS: Cast: George Clooney, Amara Miller, Shailene Woodley, Robert Forster.

Genre: Drama/Comedy.

Year: 2011.

Rating: M. Running Time: 115 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***1/2 Verdict: I'm pretty safe in saying that this story of a wealthy Hawaiian land owner who tries to re-connect with his two daughters after his wife is seriously injured in a boating accident hits you right from the very beginning. George Clooney shines in his well deserved Oscar nominated role as the father who ends up with much more to deal with than he could ever have imagined. Superbly paced and intelligently scripted, with stunning Hawaiian locations, doses of humour in the right places and a superb supporting cast, most notably Shailene Woodley as one of the two daughters with a wonderfully quirky boyfriend. However, it is the tragic thread of the story that may seem immeasurably uncomfortable in its treatment and execution, therefore, dividing some viewers along the way, but having said that, decide for yourself, because there are all-too-many factors that make it well worth a look, including some hysterically funny vignettes that puts it back on track with firm heart and soul when needed. George Clooney is simply outstanding in this role as the troubled father, right up to the final payoff which is a beautifully staged moment of sublime poignancy and sensitivity that will resonate long after the credits have finished.

FILM: The Beatles' YELLOW SUBMARINE: Cast: The Beatles, Dick Emery.

Genre: Animated, Music, Comedy.

Year: 1968.

Rating: G. Running Time: 85 Minutes.

Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ****1/2 Verdict: The Beatles agree to accompany Captain Fred in his Yellow Submarine and go to Pepperland to free it from the music hating Blue Meanies. This late sixties animated entry from the legendary fab-four mop top pop icons The Beatles is a highly original and wonderfully whimsical, vibrant, colourful, exciting, surrealistic pop art extravaganza unlike anything before or since. There's plenty to see, hear, laugh out loud and love in this uniquely psychedelic and refreshing journey that has been completely restored and remastered for DVD and Blu-ray release, which looks and sounds better now than it did on its original release in 1968. The knockout soundtrack includes The Beatles classics: Yellow Submarine, Eleanor Rigby, Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, With a Little Help From My Friends, Baby You're a Rich Man, All You Need is Love, When I'm SixtyFour, Nowhere Man and Many More! So baby boomers, whether it's a journey down memory lane or showing it to the kiddies for the first time, The Beatles' Yellow Submarine is a treat for all generations, a pure joy from beginning to end!

FILM: HOPSCOTCH: Genre: Comedy.

Cast: Walter Matthau, Glenda Jackson, Ned Beatty, Herbert Lom. Year: 1980.

Rating: PG. Running Time: 106 Minutes.

Format: DVD. Stars: ***1/2 Verdict: Wonderfully quirky and whimsical espionage tale of a disgruntled spy who is about to expose the CIA, the FBI, the KGB and himself by publishing his memoirs. Superbly handled by the legendary writer, producer and director Ronald Neame (The Man Who Never Was, Tunes of Glory, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, The Odessa File and The Poseidon Adventure, to name a few) and based on Brian Garfield's (Death Wish, among others) best-selling novel. This is not quite in the league of James Bond, which it was never meant to be. It is a bright, smart, beautifully photographed, intelligent and stylish cat-and-mouse, witty spy-game comedy with Walter Matthau in top form as the CIA operative who knows too much, as is the always reliable Glenda Jackson, and Ned Beatty (Network, Hear My Song, Deliverance, Superman: The Movie) as the boss who vows to have him terminated at any cost. Then add screen great Herbert Lom (The Ladykillers, The Phantom of the Opera, The Pink Panther films) in this delightfully muddled mix, and the result is an outstanding cast that makes this Spy Vs. Spy romp great fun to watch.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Movies, DVDs

With James Sherlock

Reviews by Aaron Rourke

Top 10 Lists

Ridley Scott

The Films Of Ridley Scott : Part 2 (1997-2011) G.I. Jane (M) (1997). 124 minutes.

No Stars.

The movie that ushered in Scott's later body of work is easily his worst film to date.

Demi Moore is grotesque and obnoxious as the first woman allowed to enter the gruelling Navy Seals training program, while good actors such as Viggo Mortensen, Anne Bancroft, Scott Wilson and Daniel Von Bargen are wasted.

Slick but totally undistinguished, lacking Scott's usual vision and conviction.

Gladiator (M) (2000). 154 minutes / 171 minutes. **.

The film that returned Scott to the top of the box-office is really nothing more than a sword-and-sandle soapie, with clunky dialogue and cardboard characters.

Given its budget, most of the CGI effects are noticeably below par. A strong, Oscar-winning central performance from Russell Crowe, as well as a nice turn from the late Oliver Reed stops this from becoming a chore to get through. The extended version is also available.

Hannibal (R) (2001). 132 minutes. **.

Misfired follow-up to the Academy Award winning Silence Of The Lambs, where everyone seems unable to tap into the story's darkly comic tone.

The film does hit the bullseye with one sequence, the same sequence which seemed to upset most moviegoers.

Black Hawk Down (MA) (2001).

143 minutes / 151 minutes. ***½.

Intense look at the 1993 US mission into Somalia, which ended in disaster.

After a worthless opening 30 minutes, where characterisation, dialogue, and political background are cliched and simplistic, the film suddenly comes to life as soon as the soldiers hit the ground.

Relentless and bloody, Scott gives us a horrific first-hand look at what soldiers face on the front line. A longer cut is also available.

Matchstick Men (M) (2003). 116 minutes. **.

Utterly predictable, distressingly bland comedy/drama about a con-artist whose world is turned upside down with the appearance of a daughter he didn't know he had.

If you've seen more than one caper film you can see where the story is going very early on, and again Scott's direction lacks distinction.

Good performances from a strong cast (including Nicolas Cage, Sam Rockwell and Alison Lohman) is the film's one major asset.

Kingdom Of Heaven (M) (2005).

145 minutes / 194 minutes. ***½ Epic film dealing with the Cru-

Melbourne

Observer THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE DICTATOR. 2. THE AVENGERS. 3. DARK SHADOWS. 4. THE FIVE YEAR ENGAGEMENT. 5. THE WOMAN IN BLACK. 6. THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL. 7. SAFE. 8. SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN. 9. THE WAY. 10. WISH YOU WERE HERE.

ades, where Christians and Muslims fought over the city of Jerusalem.

Despite some of the villains being broadly written, and certain subplots feeling contrived, this is actually quite a well-balanced drama that's peppered with impressive battle sequences, with a convinving blend of physical locations, sets, and CGI. There are moments that give us a glimpse of the old Ridley magic (it does occasionally remind you of 1492), and this would be his best film amongst his later work.

The 194 minute Director's Cut, which strengthens characters and story coherency, is definitely the superior version.

A Good Year (M) (2006). 117 minutes. *.

Poor attempt at a romantic comedy/drama from Scott and star Russell Crowe has some nice scenery, but otherwise misses the mark on every level.

American Gangster (MA) (2007).

157 minutes / 176 minutes. ***.

Solid crime drama about the rise of Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington), who became a powerful drug dealer in the 60s and 70s. Russell Crowe plays the cop who obsesses about bringing him down.

Both Washington and Crowe are great, with good support work from Josh Brolin and Chiwetel Ejiofor, but this feels more like an entertaining cable TV movie than an enveloping big screen feature. The longer cut is also available.

Body Of Lies (MA) (2008). 129 minutes. **½.

Half-involving, half-routine, this slickly made spy thriller proves to be too uneven, with a number of plot contrivances and underwritten characters that mutes the potential intrigue in the story, which centres on a CIA agent (Leonardo DiCaprio) who is continually undermined by his reckless superior (Russell Crowe), who is forever putting him in danger.

The reasons why the disgruntled agent continues to work for this irresponsible man is never satisfyingly explained. DiCaprio, and especially Mark Strong deliver fine performances.

Robin Hood (M) (2010). 140 minutes / 156 minutes. *½.

Shallow, overlong look at the creation of Robin Hood (Russell Crowe).

A lack of character depth, comic book-style villains, and predictable casting certainly makes this a missed opportunity.

The big surprise is the total lack of chemistry between Crowe and Cate Blanchett, the latter's role (as written and played) feeling way too contemporary.

The generic technical sheen is also disappointing, never giving one the impression that this is a Ridley Scott film. Yes, an extended version is also available.

- Aaron Rourke

NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: MAY 24: BEL AMI, MEN IN BLACK. MAY 31: DECLARATION OF WAR, GET THE GRINGO, TO THE ARTIC 3D WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU'RE EXPECTING, TALAASH. THE DVD TOP SELLERS: 1. THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO [Mystery/Thriller/Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara].

2. TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY [Drama/Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy].

3. HUGO [Adventure/Asa Butterfield, Christopher Lee, Ben Kingsley].

4. SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS [Adventure/Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law].

5. JOURNEY 2: MYSTERIOUS ISLAND [Adventure/Comedy/Dwayne Johnson, Michael Caine].

6. ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED [Family/Animated/ Jason Lee].

7. THE MUPPETS [Family/Adventure/Amy Adams, Jason Segal, Chris Cooper].

8. THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN [Family/Animated/Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, Daniel Craig].

9. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL [Action/Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner].

10. WAR HORSE [Drama/War/ Jeremy Irvine, Peter Mullan, Emily Watson].

Also: THE SKIN I LIVE IN, PUSS IN BOOTS, TOWER HEIST, YOUNG ADULT, THE DESCENDANTS, THE IRON LADY, HAPPY FEET TWO, WE BOUGHT A ZOO, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS, MONEYBALL. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING [Action/Thriller/Kate Beckinsale, Michael Ealy].

THE DARKEST HOUR [Science Fiction/Thriller/Emile Hirsch].

The Beatles' YELLOW SUBMARINE [Animated/Music/The Beatles, Dick Emery].

ALBERT NOBBS [Drama/Glenn Close, Mia Wasikowska].

NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: HOPSCOTCH [Comedy/Walter Matthau, Glenda Jackson].

GOLD [Action/Drama/Roger Moore].

BATTLE OF THE SEXES [Comedy/ Peter Sellers, Robert Morley, Donald Pleasance].

THE MOLLY MAGUIRES [Drama/ Sean Connery, Richard Harris].

OLIVER'S STORY [Romance/ Drama/Ryan O'Neal, Candice Bergen].

Turn To Page 71

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012 - Page 65

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Observer Showbiz AUDITIONS ■ Encore Theatre Inc: Jolson - You Ain't Heard Nuthin' Yet (by Kevin Trask) June 15, 22 from 7.30pm at Fleigner Hall, 31-39 Highland Avenue, Oakleigh East.

Director: Kevin Trask. Audition bookings: 9830 1669.

THEATRE PEOPLE

● Glenys Marriott celebrated her 60th Birthday at the Bentleigh RSL. Photo: Darryl Riley ■ Family and friends from the Rat Fanciers’ Society and MLOC Productions gathered at the Bentleigh RSL last week to surprise Glenys Marriott for her 60th Birthday.

Meticulous planning by Glenys’s husband Graeme ensured the surprise went according to plan – except when Glenys arrived later than expected after the family cat escaped out the door as she was leaving!

Glenys is a Life Member of MLOC Productions, having been involved with the company as a dancer, director and choreographer for more than 30 years.

INDEPENDENT THEATRE ■ La Mama Theatre presents The Unstoppable, Unsung Story of Shaky M from June 20-July 1 at La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St., Carlton.

Shaky M has waited 23 years, three months and 16 days to be rescued. Now she’s decided to become her own hero, tell her own story and make the ultimate mixed tape.

Using two years of research into and interviews with people living with Parkinson’s Disease, and with a cheeky nod to the time before Marty McFly began to shake too, Shaky M combines elements of physical theatre, clowning and puppetry to plunge us into the deeply isolated world of a woman held captive by her own body and her imaginative quest to set herself free.

Created and performed by Rowena Hutson, The Unstoppable, Unsung Story of Shaky M is directed by Xanthe Beesley.

Rowena began researching Parkinson’s Disease, specifically Early Onset Parkinson’s, two years ago in an attempt to understand and empathise with the ongoing experiences of her mother.

It is a world with its own bizarre logic, dictated by the utterly personal rhythm of each person’s disease and the myriad of complex and contradictory side-effects of the Parkinson’s drugs (behavioural changes such as an urge to gamble or increased sexual desire, to name but two).

Shaky M, through her attempt to make contact with others, and her all-encompassing endeavour to find magic within herself, reminds us that life is there for the taking – if only we are prepared to fight for it.

A Dr S and Professor J production in association with The Brian.

Performance Season: June 20-July 1, Wed, Sun 8.30pm; Thu, Fri, Sat 6.30pm Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St., Carlton.

Running Time: 50 minutes Tickets: $25 Full, $15 Concession Bookings: www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142

Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold

Melbourne

Observer

‘BULLSHOT CRUMMOND’ AT THE BASIN SHOWS ■ The Basin Theatre Group: Bullshot Crummond Until June 3, Thurs - Sat at 8.00pm, Sun at 2.00pm at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin. Director: Cameron South. Tickets: $22 (incl. program, refreshments, supper, parking). Bookings: 1300 784 668 (7-9pm only) or www.thebasintheatre.org.au ■ 1812 Theatre: I Hate Hamlet (by Paul Rudnick) Until June 16 at 3-5 Rose St., Upper Ferntree Gully. Director: John Mills. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 9758 3964 or www.1812theatre.com.au ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Three Days of Rain (by Richard Greenberg) Until June 9 at Brighton Theatre, Cnr. Wilson and Carpenter Sts., Brighton. Director: Doug Bennett. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 752 126 www.brightontheatreco.com ■ Phoenix Theatre Company: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum Until June 2 at the Doncaster Playhouse. Director/Choreographer: Renee Maloney; Musical Director: Katie Packer. Bookings: www.phoenix theatrecompany.org ■ The Mount Players: Oklahoma! Until June 16 at 56 Smith St., Macedon. Directors: Peter Kelly and Olivia Kelly. Tickets: $25/$22.

Bookings: 1300 463 224. www.themountplayers.com ■ Werribee Theatre Company: Busybody (by Jack Popplewell) Until June 2 at the Crossroads Theatre, Cnrs.

Synnot St and Duncans Rd., Werribee. Tickets: $20. Bookings: 0401 800 196 www.werribeetheatrecompany.org.au ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: MASH May 30 - June 16 at 39-41 Castella St., Lilydale. Director: Adrian Carr. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9735 1777 www.lilydaleatc.com ■ Essendon Theatre Company: One Act Play Season (Love And Other Calamities) June 7 - 16 at the West Essendon Community Centre, Bradshaw St., West Essendon. Bookings: 0422 029 483. One Act Plays: Love or Nearest Offer (by Hugh O'Brien), directed by Karen Parrott; The Wedding Story (by Julianne Homokay), directed by Cat Cummins; Do You Come Here Often? (by Samantha-Ellen Bound), Directed by Samantha-Ellen Bound and Rhiannon Dummett.

Witches of Eastwick

● Meet the Gabriel family from MLOC's production of the musical The Witches Of Eastwick, being presented from June 15-23 at the Phoenix Theatre, 101 Glenhuntly Rd., Elwood.

Back left is Clyde Gabriel (Colin Sephton), Felicia Gabriel (Lucy Nicolson) and their daughter Jennifer Gabriel (Amy Gridley).

The show is directed by Jane Court, with musical direction by Martine Wengrow and choreography

by Merilyn Young.

Tickets: $32/$30/$28. Bookings: www.mloc.org. au or 9570 4052.

Photo: Adrian Morris

Cheryl Threadgold on 3AW ■ Non-Pro Theatre columnist Cheryl Threadgold is heard weekly on 3AW Melbourne Overnight program hosted by Andrew McLaren. Cheryl presents a segment with the latest community theatre news at 12.45am Wednesdays.

‘SCRUBBERS’ AT STRATHMORE

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Scrubbers (written and directed by Cenarth Fox) May 31 - June 9 at the Strathmore Community Hall, Loeman St., Strathmore.

Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 9382 6284.

■ Swan Hill Theatre Group: Oliver! May 31 - June 16 at the McCrae St. Theatre, Swan Hill. Director: Nikki Holt.

Evening performances: 7.30pm, matinee at 2.00pm. Bookings: 0438 006274.

■ Fab Nobs Theatre: Next to Normal June 15 - 30 at 33 Industry Place, Bayswater. Director: Nicholas Kong; Musical Director: Naomi Osborne www.fabnobstheatre. com.au . Bookings: 0401 018 846 www.fabnobstheatre. com.au

AUDITIONS ■ Hartwell Players: Daisy Pulls It Off (by Denise Deegan) June 3 at 11.00am. Director: Laura Bradley. Audition bookings: 0414 849028.

■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Doubt (by John Patrick Shanley) June 3 at 6.00pm and June 4 at 7.00pm at the Strathmore Community Hall, Loeman St., Strathmore. Director: Mel de Bono. 9467 1502.

■ Eltham Little Theatre: Moonlight and Magnolias June 3 at 1.00pm, June 4 at 7.30pm at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 main Road, Research. Director: Terese M. Ryan. Audition bookings: 0449 932 921.

■ The Basin Theatre Group: Over My Dead Body June 13 at 7.30pm at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Rd., The Basin.

Director: Joe Tuppenney. Audition enquiries: 8711 307 ■ MLOC Productions Inc: The Wizard of Oz Information Evening June 26 at 8.00pm at the Parkdale Church of Christ hall, 174 Como Pde., Parkdale. Auditions: (Adults) June 28 and July 1; (Juniors) June 30 and July 7. Director: Lucy Nicolson; Musical Director: Tanya Chaves; Choreographer: Keir Jasper. Audition bookings: 9589 4912. Bookings: 0422 029 483.

INDEPENDENT THEATRE

Tying Knots ■ Tying Knots is the story of two deeply committed, same-sex upper middle class couples who have everything their hard-earned money can buy … except the legal right to marry.

On returning from a wedding, Josephine hatches a plan with her close friends Ben and Tim, vowing to marry each other’s partners in an extravagant double wedding.

The dresses are fitted and the church is booked, however the unrelenting demands and pressures from Kate’s conservative family cause strain on relationships, and cause the couples to investigate their motives for wanting to get married.

Written by Indigo Brandenburg and directed by Oscar Lopez, through the lives of six humorous, warm and tenacious characters, Tying Knots questions marriage equality by drawing our focus to the true nature of love and commitment.

The exciting young cast and crew includes graduates from the VCA, WAAPA and USQ. Season: June 13-July 1, Wed, Sun 6.30pm; Thu, Fri, Sat 8.30pm Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St, Carlton.

Running time: 60 minutes Tickets: $25 Full | $15 Concession Bookings: www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142

Theatre companies are invited to lodge news of their shows and listings for free publication in the Melbourne Observer

Page 66 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

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 30, 2012 - Page 67

Solution on Page 60

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Page 68 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

Finished with wet sail ■ Hopetoun Park duo Ross & Greg Sugars were successful with Life Sign/Next Trip filly Illawong Geraldine in the SEW-Eurodrive 3-Y-0 Pace Final over 1690 metres at Kilmore on Tuesday May 22.

Settling three back along the markers from inside the second line, Illawong Geraldine was extricated to trail Katagoric three wide approaching the home turn, before finishing with a wet sail in the straight to score from Clipper along the sprint lane after following the weakening leader Bigens Best, with Katagoric third.

Bred and raced by avid harness supporter Dr Martin Hartnett, Illawong Geraldine returned a mile rate of 1-59.9.

Esaed away from markers ■ Six year old Aces N Sevens/Summer Lace gelding Summer Ace returned to form when successful in the Peter Walsh MP Pace for C2 & C3 class over 1690 metres at the Wedderburn fixture conducted at Maryborough on Wednesday.

Trained at Parwan by the partnership of Craig Demmler and Jodi Quinlan, Summer Ace driven by Jodi enjoyed an easy time from the pole following the hot favourite Nicola Jaccka which drew next to him.

Easing away from the markers on the home turn, Summer Ace proved too strong at the finish for the roughie Arlington Road off a three wide trail last lap on the back of Cruisin Fella, with Nicola Jaccka disappointing in finishing third. The mile rate 1-58.3.

Great day for Melton area ■ Four year old Modern Art/Sorbonne gelding Our Horizon was successful in the Gippsland Media Centre Pace for C0 class over 2205 metres at Warragul on Thursday, much to the delight of Parwan owner/breeder Cheryl Quinlan and daughter/ reinswoman Jodi, with Craig Demmler the winning trainer.

Mt Cottrell trainer Bill Galea was also a winner on the day with Major Calypso a colt by Art Major from Galleons Bud (Damian Wilson) taking the Radford Butchers 2-Y-0 Pace over 1785 metres in a rate of 2-03.

Another winner was 4-Y-0 Village Jasper/Cobargo Doll gelding Rory Breaker for Rod Petroff in the Print Solutions @ Work Pace for C1 class over 1785 metres in a rate of 2-01.

To top off a great day for the Melton area, Geoff Walker snared the Drouin Signs 3-Y-0 Pace over 2205 metres with Life Sign/Mirra Mirra filly Fairest One Youare, returning a rate of 2-06.4.

Forward move three wide ■ Parwan's Jaime Madruga combined with Daryl Douglas to land the Tazwaste Pace for R2 & R3 class over 1720 metres at the Bacchus Marsh HRC fixture held at a cold and wet Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday with smart D M Dilinger/Beaconsfield Gold 5-Y-0 gelding Balance Point.

Settling four back in the moving line from gate three on the second line with the polemarker River Breeze leading, Balance Point commenced a forward move three wide last lap.

Nursed around the final bend, Balance Point when asked for an effort on straightening, ran home strongly to record a 3.2 metre victory in 2-01 over One Tough Reign which raced in the open, with Educated Lady coming from near last at the bell for third.

Horses To Follow ■ Blue Seelster, Real Hammer, Christian World, Puerto Bonus, Lady Kardashian, Roy Hobbs, Star Style, Life Of Franco.

DEXTER DUNN TAKES C’SHIP ■ Champion Christchurch based reinsman Dexter Dunn made a "hitrun" Australian visit to capture the annual Noel Smith Memorial Invitation Drivers Championship conducted by the progressive Horsham Harness Racing Club at Horsham in Victoria's Wimmera District on Monday May 21.

A talented line up of reinspersons contested the penalty free three race series sponsored by Merv Butterworth's Decron Horse Care - Chris Alford, Gavin Lang, Daryl Douglas, Kerryn Manning, Greg Sugars and last minute replacement Ellen Tormey representing Victoria, Chris Lewis (WA), Ashlee Siejka (N-SW), Gareth Rattray (Tas) and Dexter Dunn (N-Z).

David Harding was to represent South Australia, but unfortunately received a broken wrist at Globe Derby on Saturday.

Chris Alford got off to a flyer in the first race of the series, winning the C0 class event over 2200 metres aboard Heywood trainer Kevin Brough's 3Y-0 It Is I/Mama Tembu gelding Weallwantano.

Starting from gate three on the second line, Weallwantano was sent forward on the back of Mister Seelster shortly after the start to park outside the pacemaker Pleasedtobetibet, before careering away on the home turn to score by 4.5 metres in 2-01.6 over the hot favourite The Noble Steed (Daryl Douglas) and Mister Seelster (Ellen Tormey). Surface To Air (Kerryn Manning) finished fourth after racing wide in the last lap.

Race two for C2 & C3 class over 2200 metres saw Gavin Lang successful on the Peter Thompson (Long Forest) trained 4-Y-0 Live Or Die/Bronze Lady gelding Bronze Destiny.

Lobbing outside the polemarker Rosharni from gate three, Bronze Destiny was shuffled to be three back in the moving line at the bell after both Princess Fiona (Greg Sugars) and Absolootmagic (Chris Lewis) made forward moves.

Easing three wide in the last lap, Bronze Destiny joined Rosharni on the final bend and in a two horse war all the way up the running, prevailed by a half neck over Heza Showman (Ashlee Siejka) which ran home strongly when extricated off the back of the leader in the straight, with Nobody Holme (Ellen Tormey) closing late out wide from well back in the field for third. Rosharni (Dexter Dunn) weakened

Baker’s Delight

Harness Racing

Defied all challengers

Melbourne

Observer

lenbaker@ bigpond.net.au

with Len Baker

to be beaten 3.6 metres in fourth place.

Any number of drivers could have won the series going into the third and final leg for Three Year Olds 3C0 over 1700 metres, however it was Dexter Dunn who scored aboard the Danny Curran (Marong) trained Saab/ Last Tally gelding Final Count.

Given a charmed passage from the pole trailing the pacemaker Arr En Special (Gavin Lang), Final Count when eased around the heels of the leader on straightening finished too well for him to register a 3.9 metre victory, with Public Persuasion (Daryl Douglas) running home late off a three wide double trail last lap to finish third in advance of Burston Holme (Kerryn Manning).

The final tally giving Dexter the title from Gavin Lang, with Kerryn Manning, Daryl Douglas and Ashlee Siejka equal third.

Quinella ■ Bendigo trainer Chris Svanosio almost snared the quinella in the Hygain Micrspeed Pace for C1 class over 2200 metres at Horsham on Monday May 21, with Mister Pickles winning and stablemate Carlos Cullen finishing third.

Restrained from outside the front line by reinsman Danny O'Bree, Mister Pickles settled at the tail of the field, with Carlos Cullen (gate two on the second line) driven by Chris lobbing three back in the moving line.

Sent forward within a lap, Carlos Cullen parked outside the pacemaker and favourite River Breeze, with Svanosio controlling the race.

Dashing to the front on straightening, the effort started to tell halfway up the running and Carlos Cullen was a sitting target for those back in the field, with Mister Pickled peel-

ing off a three wide trail on the back of Manwarra Logic and finishing best to score from Life Of Franco from mid-field, with Carlos Cullen third. The mile rate 2-03.5.

A 5-Y-0 gelded son of Pass The Mustard and Ladybird Joy raced by Peter Svanosio and Marnie O'Bree, Mister Pickles has fronted the starter 69 times for 2 wins.

Easy win ■ At Kilmore on Tuesday, Elmore's Jenny Johnson snared the Seelite Windows & Doors 3-Y-0 Trotters Mobile over 2180 metres with Last Sunset/ Springfield Paula gelding Sunset Tour.

Driven by Gavin Lang, Sunset Tour was given an easy time from gate four perfectly poised one/one racing for the bell and when eased three wide on the final bend, ran home strongly to record an easy victory over the Echuca filly Star Style (three wide last lap from last), with Nicky Newky third after racing in the open for the final circuit.

On outside ■ Maiden Gully trainer David Van Ryn has his team of squaregaiters going extremely well and landed the Central Ford Trotters Mobile for T2 to T4 class over 2180 metres at Kilmore with Enjoy A Coldie, a 4-Y-0 gelded son of S J's Photo and Maoris Crown.

Driven by Haydon Gray, Enjoy A Coldie was restrained to last from the dreaded outside front line draw, with the hot favourite Amelia Darling leading from gate four.

Setting off three wide solo in the last lap, Enjoy A Coldie sustained a long run to gain the day over Stoned I Am (one/one) and Apollorita which trailed the pacemaker, returning a mile rate of 203.9.

■ t the Wedderburn fixture conducted at Maryborough on Wednesday, Elmore's Keith Cotchin snared the Loddon Tourism 3-Y-0 Pace over 1690 metres with Mcardle/Classic Blue Jeans filly Chiquita Bromac.

Driven by Greg Sugars, Chiquita Bromac speared out of gate four to lead and rated a treat, defied all challengers to score by a half head in advance of a game Garabaldi Union which raced outside her and Metrofromelle which followed the winner from the pole. The mile rate 2-01.

Sprint lane used ■ Marong trainer John Mamouney combined with Bendigonian Neil McCallum aboard 5-Y-0 Wind Cries Maori/Classical Alm mare Whispering Alm to land the Roz's Treasures Trotters Mobile for T0 & T1 class (mares) over 2190 metres.

Leading out from gate four, McCallum eased to allow the heavily supported Miss Kai Ching (gate five) to assume control, giving Whispering Alm a charmed passage.

Using the sprint lane, Whispering Alm finished best to score from the fast finishing Atego Lilly (three wide at bell from last), with Miss Kai Ching weakening to finish third. The mile rate 2-05.2.

Third place after gallop ■ David Van Ryn and nephew Haydon Gray continued their run of luck, when Bacardi Lyndy/Belstar gelding Bellmac Cody captured the 2nd Heat of the Tatlow stakes for 2-Y-0 Trotters over 2150 metres at Bendigo on Thursday.

Spearing away from gate six to lead easily, Bellmac Cody coasted throughout the 2150 metre journey in accounting for Hackashaq which raced in the open from three back the markers in the final circuit, with Roy Hobbs running a gigantic third after galloping shortly after the start, setting himself an impossible task. The mile rate 2-03.2.

Led from the pole ■ The finish of the Schweppes Pacers Handicap for C3 or better class over 2150 metres at Bendigo was a thriller, with Flash Of Freedom (Doc Wilson - Ardmona) dead-heating with Pacific Soul (Josh Duggan for Glenn Douglas - Strathfieldsaye) in a rate of 2-01.2.

Flash Of Freedom (Justanotherpoorboy/Flight Of Freedom) led from the pole, with Pacific Soul (Pacific Rocket/Parequit) trailing and using the sprint lane to draw level on the wire. Christian World was third after being sent forward from the second line to race in the open.

Impressive win at Melton ■ Bolinda trainer Paul Males combined with Daryl Douglas to land the Young Family 3-Y-0 Pace over 1720 metres at the Bacchus Marsh HRC fixture held at Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday with Real Desire/Lady Oren filly Real Performer.

Lobbing one/one from outside the front row, Douglas moved around Our Faviolla ahead of her at the bell to race parked for the final circuit.

Racing clear on straightening, Real Performer at start number two, scored impressively over the polemarker Blue Seelster on debut, with Lady Kardashian third from mid-field. The mile rate 200.7.

This week’s meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Wednesday - Maryborough/Kilmore, Thursday - Melton/Shepparton, Friday - Hamilton/Melton, Saturday - Ballarat, Sunday - Cranbourne, Monday - Geelong, Tuesday - Nyah.

- Len Baker

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012 - Page 71

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

SUNSHINE COAST ACTION

■ The main racing attraction has moved to Brisbane with the running of their Classics over the next few weeks.

A couple of their big races have already been run, with plenty of action to come.

Who wouldn't want to be there; not only for the great racing; but for the beautiful sun and the surf.

Coming up we have the running of the Queensland Oaks, with one of the best fields of three year-old fillies, attempting to put their name into the record books.

It is a very open market with the New Zealand Oaks winner, Miss Artistic equal favorite, with fellow ‘Enzedder’, Quintessential, who ran third behind her in the NZ Oaks.

Both are from very strong stables, that of Shaun Ritchie and John Sergeant.

Then on the next line, we have some very smart Australian fillies.

Among them Invest; prepared by top Sydney trainer, Clarrie Connors, who trains her from his satellite stable at Geelong.

She has been most impressive at her last two wins scoring in the South Australian Oaks and the Roses at Doomben recently.

On both occasions she was ridden brilliantly by top Victorian jockey, Peter Mertens, who is enjoying a change of luck and is riding very well.

Among other chances are the New Zealand filly, Poste Restante, and the Patinack farm entry, Pretty Pins.

A very open affair, but like all Vics; we would love to see Peter Mertens boot home another Oaks winner.

On top of the Oaks we have the running of the Queensland Derby, with another Victorian heading up the markets.

The Leon Corstens trained, Zabeelion-aire, is the favorite, after impressive wins at Caulfield and South Australia, and being by leading sire, Zabeel, will have no worry with the trip or the weather as the Zabeel's handle all conditions very well.

Ted Ryan

Just behind him in the market is the Peter Moody trained youngster, Soros, who has been most impressive, being by leading sire Lohnro, winning at Flemington recently over 2000 metres.

He is one of three entries from the Moody camp.

On the third line is Miss Artistic as mentioned early as one of the favorites for the Queensland Oaks.

Behind her is Vatuvei, prepared by Moody, a most impressive winner of the St Leger, at Flemington over 2800 metres, so he will have no worries over the journey.

The third of Pete's runners is Brambles, who was placed in the Group 3 Rough Habit event at Doomben recently.

Further down the track we will see the running of the Stradbroke Handicap one of the great attractions on the Brisbane Turf Club’s racing

calendar. The Stradbroke was first run back in 1890, and since then has attracted some of best gallopers from all over Australasia.

The early favorite is the Peter Snowden trained Mental, who won brilliantly at Doomben recently and is the one to beat.

The John O'Shea trained filly, Sea Siren, was a brilliant winner at Doomben recently in open company and is very smart.

Her trainer, Sydney's John O'Shea who has had many a good horse, rates her among his best ever.

Another that will attract plenty of attention is the Tim Martin prepared colt, Pampelonne, who trounced them in the Inglis Guineas at Scone.

Next on line is the Joseph trained Tiger Tees most impressive last start, along with Solzhenitsyn, who has recorded outstanding wins in

Observer Racing

Brisbane at his last two starts.

Then you have the top mare Wealth Princess, trained by Victorian Darren Weir, who also blitzed them last start on the Sunshine Coast.

Star sprinter Buffering, who had a bad abscess on his foot, has now fully recovered, and will be right in it.

There are plenty of chances, but we will follow up, when the field is settled.

Black Flash ■ Time is ticking away before Victoria's mighty mare, Black Caviar, takes on the rest of the world in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 23, but already leading English bookies have installed her, an odds-on favorite.

She is being quoted at $1.50, then Society Rock at $11, followed

by Bated Breath at $13.

Alongside him is the top Sydney galloper, Foxwedge, trained by John O'Shea in Sydney, then Hoof It on $15,

● Zabeelionaire Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 while Moonlight ently. Western Hero is Cloud is a $17 chance. a son of Star Grenville English bookies bet Stud stallion, West as much an even- Quest. money when the marHis family also inket opened, but this cludes Victorian and was quickly snapped South Australian up.

Derby winner, Rebel From all Austra- Raider. lians all I can say is.

Western Hero was "Go Nellie". sold at the Magic Millions Yearling sales for only $11,000, but has already won over ■ Top Tasmanian $150,000.

We look forward to youngster, Western Hero, could be head- the son of West Quest, ing for Melbourne af- racing against our best ter a great win in the three year-olds in Sires Produce Stakes Victoria.

- Ted Ryan at Launceston re-

Tassie star

Sulky Snippets Enjoyed the run ■ At the Wedderburn fixture held at Maryborough on Wednesday, Armstrong's Brooke Hansen landed the Hon Dr Denis Napthine MLA Pace for C5 & C6 class over 2190 metres with 6-Y-0 Jet Laag/Tucumlucy gelding Astral Flight in a rate of 2-01.3.

Taking a concession for Shepparton based Bec Bartley, Astral Flight enjoyed the run of the race from gate two trailing Modern Warrior inside him.

Using the sprint lane, Astral Flight scored a last stride victory by a half head over Farmersntradies (three wide last lap), with Modern Warrior a half head away third in a finish which tricked many.

It was Astral Flight's 11th victory in 62 outings.

Sweet trip at Melton

● Vatuvei Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754

■ Whittlesea's Mark Peace was also a winner at Tabcorp Park on Friday afternoon with Kiwi bred Franco Templar (Falcon Seelster/Temple Franco) taking the tazwaste.com Pace for R4 to R6 class over 2240 metres in a rate of 2-03.4.

Receiving a sweet trip one/one from gate six, Franco Templar finished full of running out wide to blouse the pacemaker Western Connection in the last bound, with The Urban Legend third after moving to race in the open mid-race.

- Len Baker

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 64

Top 10 Lists NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: LADY GAGA: On The Edge.

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6. ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED [Family/Animated/Jason Lee].

7. THE MUPPETS [Family/Adventure/Amy Adams, Jason Segal, Chris Cooper].

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NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING [Action/ Thriller/Kate Beckinsale, Michael Ealy].

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- James Sherlock

Southbank thieves Crime Stoppers is asking for help to identify two men allegedly involved in a burglary at a Southbank apartment complex.

Just before 2am on February 22 two men followed a resident through the security door of a basement car park on Dorcas St. The men allegedly tampered with the gate, before breaking into a locked bicycle rack, and stealing four bikes.

Both men are described as Caucasian, in their mid 30's with solid builds.

Police have released images of two men whom they believe may be able to assist them in their enquiries.

Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report confidentially online at www.crimestoppers.com.au

Page 72 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012 - Page 73

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Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

GOLD COAST SUNS RE-SIGN McKENNA

■ The Gold Coast Suns have extended the contract of senior coach Guy McKenna for a further two years, until the end of the 2014 season.

Gold Coast Suns Chairman, John Witheriff said McKenna was in the process of guiding the team from AFL newcomers to a consistent high performing team.

"Guy has been charged with the unique challenge of bringing together a playing group that predominately consisted of talented teenagers who were yet to play a senior game of AFL football and transforming them into an elite team."

"That transformation was always going to take longer than Guy's original contract period and the board was unanimous in its belief that Guy deserves the opportunity and time required to complete this challenge."

Witheriff said the board conducted a review into the senior coaching position as the club needed to identify what areas of the senior coaching position would change as the GC Suns continued to evolve, entering its second phase as a club.

Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel "Phase one started four years ago base, playing group and Metricon Stawhen we set-up the foundations of the dium.

“Phase two, is about success and club, building an administration, fan

that will be reflected in Guy’s approach as senior coach."

"The reality for us is we're moving into phase two and phase two means in the next four years we've got to win consistently, and during that time the position of senior coach will change from a developmental approach to a winning approach.” Witheriff said.

McKenna said he was pleased with the review process and was looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“I was extremely comfortable with the process and I am thrilled that I will have the opportunity to continue as senior coach of the Gold Coast Foot-

Round 10 Friday, June 1 St Kilda vs. Richmond (ES) (N) Saturday, June 2 Geelong Cats vs. GWS Giants (SS) Hawthorn vs. North Melbourne (AU) Fremantle vs. Adelaide Crows (PS) (T) Essendon vs. Melbourne (MCG) (N) Port Adelaide vs. Carlton (AS) (N) Sunday, June 3 Brisbane Lions vs. West Coast Eagles (G) (E) Sydney Swans vs. Western Bulldogs (SCG) Collingwood vs. Gold Coast Suns (MCG) (T) ball Club.”

“Everyone at the Gold Coast Football Club has a role to play in the evolution of our club and the game on the Gold Coast, I am proud of what the club has achieved so far and it's my challenge to ensure we now deliver a winning attitude at the club in the coming years.”

- Harry Beitzel

Now we have an exciting national comp.

■ I recall writing after Round 4 that we should wait until Rounds 8 and 9 before making definite predictions as to what is likely to be the Final 8, the Final Four and also the Grand Final teams and the 2012 Premiers.

In the past four weeks we have heard from the experts and the ‘bookies’ their “favourites for the flag”!

It has fluctuated between Geelong, Carlton, Collingwood, Sydney was fancied until stars Adam Goodes and Shane Mumford suffered serious injuries then Hawthorn was red-hot until the Tigers gave them a towelling, and Adelaide was praised but the Magpies took care of them.

Despite woeful injuries the consistent WC Eagles are flag favourites at $5 from Hawthorn and Collingwood at $5.50, Essendon $6, Adelaide Melbourne

Observer

$8 with Carlton and Geelong $12.

Sydney has drifted from $10 to $26 while the Saints have shortened from $45 to $21.

The biggest change has been Fremantle $25 after Rd 7 to $71 after the weekend.

There was another analysis which highlighted the Final 8 for years rarely altered after the Rd 7 teams positions.

In this accepted “even season” it could be different. The ladder after Rd 7 was WCE, Essendon, Crows, Carlton, Swans, Freo, Magpies and St Kilda with Hawthorn, Geelong, Nth Melb, Richmond and W Bulldogs filling 9th to 13th spots.

The ladder after nine games is WCE, ‘Dons, Crows, Magpies, Swans, Carl, Hawks, Saints, Geelong and Freo then Richmond, North Melb and Bulldogs up to 13th spot.

Will it change further? I think of the Top 4 only WCE are safe with six teams Hawthorn, Collingwood, Carlton, Geelong, Essendon and Crows to have a tough fight for the remaining three positions while the final eighth spot is another “toss-up”!

Other than the fanatical Magpie and Tiger fans who expected these two teams to enjoy such decisive wins?

Every round from now to season’s end will produce surprise winners and changes to the Top 8.

It will be a bonanza for the AFL and interest should be at fever pitch.

If you are considering investing on who will make the Final 4 and Final 8 you must study the draw as to which of the current top 13 teams meet the bottom five, (Brisbane, Port Adel, GWS, GC Suns and

Showbiz Social Club

● Pianist Bob Vinnard and vocalist Anne Smith at the Showbiz Social Club

Melbourne) in the 13 remaining games.

Hawthorn, 5 wins need 8 more to be safe in the Top 8.

They meet four of these bottom sides BUT Port Adel (2), and miss Melbourne, play three teams currently below them North Melb, Bulldogs, Geelong plus the struggling Sydney and Carlton.

This accounts for 10 matches – the other three clashes are tough, WCE, Essendon and Collingwood.

I was impressed with the Skoda Stadium and its facilities.

The 11,887 was a reasonable crowd and had the Giants kicked straight they should have led at quarter time.

This would have resulted in a confidence boost.

Next week they travel to Geelong while The Swans play the Bulldogs at SCG on Sun-

day evening. It is great having an AFL game every week in Sydney.

A few years back I well remember the meagre par or two our AFL managed in the NRL biased media. It dominated across ALL media, TV, press and radio.

Two of my friends Dr Allen Aylett, President, and the late Jack Hamilton, CEO, ran the VFL and had the foresight to push our game into the future to become a truly national competition.

In 1982 South Melbourne became the Sydney Swans.

The ANFC was abandoned, the VFL brand became the AFL. The traditional VFL 12 team competition broadened in 1987 to 14 with the inclusion of West Coast and Brisbane.

Adelaide joined in 1991 so now there were 15 Teams and a bye for the next 4 years when

Fremantle joined in 1995. In 1997 Fitzroy amalgamated to become the Brisbane Lions and Port Adelaide joined as the SA second Home club.

There was always strong interstate prejudice to have another AFL team in every State which overtime has developed into two Teams with local Derbies.

The AFL 16 teams ran and consolidated for 18 years until GC Suns in 2011 and GWS this year joined the party.

In the 30 years growth of the AFL into a national competition and more realistically in the past 20 years interstate teams have won 10 premierships, WCE 3, Brisbane 3, Adelaide 2, Port Adelaide, Sydney, one each.

I say that’s some success story!

- I’m Harry Beitzel and that’s my say!

Photos by Gigi Hellmuth

● Guitarist and vocalist Sylvester Kroyherr on Monday night at Bentleigh

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, May 30, 2012 - Page 75

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