Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - Page 99
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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer
Radio: In search of Harry Wilde .................... Page 100 Showbiz: Jennifer’s one-night show ................... Page 101 The Spoiler: Advance plotlines for TV soapies .......... Page 101 Jim and Aaron: Top 10, best movies and DVDs ............ Page 102 Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre shows, auditions ........... Page 103 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD
TUNE IN TOMORROW Night of music, singing at MRC
By JULIE HOUGHTON
● Rinat Shaham ■ Tasmania is known for its apples, beer and rich history. But it also happens to have a fine symphony orchestra that is crossing Bass Strait for a concert at Melbourne Recital Centre on Saturday August 3 at 7.30 pm. Joining the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, under its maestro, conductor Marko Letonja, is mezzo soprano Rinat Shaham, who is as easy on the ear as she is on the eye. Rinat came to prominence earlier in the year for an acclaimed performance in the title role in Bizet's opera Carmen for Opera Australia's Handa Opera On Sydney Harbour. Rinat is known for her multi-lingual skill as a singer as well as her dramatic voice, and those skills will be well used in a program of music drawn from Hungary, Germany, France, Italy, America and Azerbaijan. Beethoven's famous Symphony No 7 is the large work on the program, but Hungarian composer Kodaly's Dances Of Galanta and Berio's folk song cycle will provide a musical trip around the world in one night without leaving the comfort of Elisabeth Murdoch Hall. Conductor Marko Letonja will be familiar to Melbourne concertgoers, having been Principal Guest Conductor with Orchestra Victoria in 2008-09, and this will be his first Melbourne appearance with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, of which he is Chief Conductor and Artistic Director. Rinat Shaham has sung with the world's leading companies, including Glyndebourne, Berlin State Opera, New York City Opera and the Royal Opera House Covent Garden. The programming of a Beethoven symphony with a dance work and a folk song cycle is a deliberate choice, according to Marko Letonya. "Our concert has a specific dramaturgical shape - we link Beethoven with Kodaly and Berio through the concept of 'the dance'. Beethoven's Symphony No 7 was described by Wagner as 'the apotheosis of the dance', so we are taking up and extending this theme, " he explained. To book your seat for what sounds like an exciting night of symphonic music and fine singing, go to www.melbournerecital.com.au - Julie Houghton
● Francis Greenslade, Anne Phelan. Joel Parnis ■ Anne Phelan has been a star in my eyes ever since I saw her in a clever farce at the old St Martin's Theatre in South Yarra in the 1970s. Since then she has graced our theatre stages and TV screens in innumerable shows, the latest of which is the popular Channel 7 drama Winners And Losers, in which she plays Nana Dot. But theatre is in Anne's blood, and you can see her in the flesh in Don McKay's production of a radio nostalgia show, which is touring around Victoria's regions and Melbourne's suburbs over the next few weeks. Anne is joined by fellow thespian and Winners And Losers star Francis Greenslade, her television son Brian; and talented young music theatre performer, Joel Parnis, who has just finished a season of Flower Children, The Mamas And The Papas Story at the Comedy Theatre. The three performers present songs, commercials and extracts from vintage radio series like Blue Hills, When A Girl Marries, Dad And Dave, Lux Radio Theatre and Superman. A highlight is the mind-reading routine which was performed on radio by Sidney Piddington and his wife Lesley Pope. There is also the unlikely act from Australia's Amateur Hour in which a Russian migrant tap dances to Yes, Sir, That's My Baby . Anne Phelan is delighted to be playing a mature-aged character on our small screen, and has been thrilled that people approach her in the street because they all want a 'Nana Dot' in their lives - she had made a big impact on watchers of the popular TV series, despite not being blonde nor under 30. Tunje In Tomorrow has previously played a season at Capers Cabaret and been seen at the Brisbane Festival. It follows the successful series of recreations of The Lux Radio Theatre, which have toured extensively, and there is nobody better than director Don Mackay to bring the past to life in such a fun way. Tune In Tomorrow is at the Whitehorse Centre on August 7; in Colac on Friday, August 9; Mildura on Sunday, August 11; Ballarat on Tuesday, August 13; Bendigo on Thursday, August 15; and it finishes in Frankston on Friday, August 16.
3AW advertiser looks to swap $400,000 spend to FM radio: see ‘Radio Confidential’, P100
Ted Hamilton on Golden Days Radio
● Golden Days Radio station manager Alex Hehr pictured this week with Ted Hamilton. ■ Golden Days Radio 95.7FM station manager Alex Hehr has recorded an interview with Australian showbiz icon Ted Hamilton. The interview has been scheduled for broadcast, in two parts, at 9am on Saturday August 17and 24 Ted’s life has included time as an entertainer, performing in the early days of In Melbourne Tonight, as a key member of the Division 4 cast, and as a businessman in Australia and the United States. He was earlier this year awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) “for service to the performing arts, and to the community”.
Audience numbers grow for Joy FM
■ Melbourne’s gay-lesbian community radio station, Joy 94.9, is increasing its audience numbers, according to latest McNair research quoted by station officials. The station says it is attracting about 100,000 listeners weekly, with the monthly total of 329,000 across Melbourne. The ‘snapshot survey’ is said to indicate an audience increase of more than 50 per cent, up from 216,000 a month as reported in the previous survey from 2008. “On average, the Joy listener tunes in to the station for 1.8 hours per day, Mondays to Fridays. More than 17,000 Joy website visits are registered a month, there are more than 5,000 Joy followers on Twitter, there are 5000 Joy likes on Facebook, and more than 119,000 Joy podcast downloads.
Page 100 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Observer Showbiz
Radio Confidential News from stations from around Victoria
IN SEARCH OF HARRY WILDE
Country Crossroads info@country crossroads.com.au Big Breakfast Show. Southern FM 88.3. Tues. 6am-9am.
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Rob Foenander
Johnny’s new single ■ Music legend Johnny Chester's career just continues on with the release of his new single My Heart (Always Brings Me Back To You). Johnny says: "It's in the more retro/traditional style with which I feel most comfortable and it's one of my own songs.” The track is available from itunes.com More info www.johnnychester.com
The Hurting Scene ■ Melody Pool has certainly raised the bar with her debut CD release The Hurting Scene. The folk-influenced 12 tracks are all her own songs and showcase a great maturity and understanding of her craft for someone so young. Melody is the daughter of Australian country musician Alby and is now signed to Liberation Music which is part of the Mushroom Group. More info: melodypool.com.au
Slim Dusty coin released ■ The Royal Australian Mint has officially launched a coin recognising Slim Dusty's contribution to Australian society. It is one of the latest releases in the Mint's Inspirational Australians series which recognises and celebrates individual achievements and commemorates unique Australians.
Jetty Road in Nashville ■ Victorian band and Golden Guitar winner Jetty Road is currently in Nashville. The band’s twin sisters Paula and Lee Bowman along with Julian Sammut will be undertaking a series of songwriting workshops plus some live performances whilst over there. Long-time band member Simon Ross has left the group recently to concentrate on family matters and pursue other projects.
■ Former Victorian radio industry personnel are recalling the life of high-octane presenter Harry Wilde, who hosted shows on 3KZ, 3MP, and 3CS at Colac. Members of the Australian Radio group on Facebook, administered by the Melbourne Observer, believe that Wilde may have ended up in Europe, possibly in Germany or Austria. Others wonder whether he moved to the United States. Members recall Wilde’s career included stints at 2KY Sydney with John Singleton, 3SR Shepparton, 2WS Western Sydney, 2QN Deniliquin, and 3UZ Melbourne.
Wednesday, July 31 ■ American singersongwriter Lobo (Roland Kent La Voie) was born in 1943 (70). Singer Russell Morris was born in Richmond, Melbourne in 1948 (65). Ex-Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu is 60. Actor Ernie Dingo was born in Western Australia in 1956 (57).
Awards for ethnic shows
■ The National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters Council is calling for nominations for this year’s awards, with winners tobe announced on Saturday, November 30. Winners will receive a trophy, certificate and be featured on the NEMBC website and journal magazine The Ethnic Broadcaster.
Off to Qld
Next ratings ■ The next radio ratings survey results will be releaded on Tuesday, August 20. This will be the fifth of eight surveys for 2013.
● Radio industry people have been seeking the whereabouts of Harry Wilde, ex-3KZ and 3MP. He is pictured at 3CS Colac, circa 1980s
Smooth ‘no’ to funeral ads
● Bob Newbould
■ The 2013 Australian Radio Conference will be held in Brisbane at the Royal International Convention Centre on October 11. Commercial Radio Australia is finalising nominations for this year’s awards. AM and FM staff from Melbourne are compiling entries.
John travels to Qld
■ Smooth 91.5 FM has reportedly knocked back an advertising campaign by Kingston Funeral Services that could have been worth more than $400,000 a year. The rejection was reportedly on the grounds that it was not creatively appropriate. Kingston Funerals also runs Nightingale Funerals and Browne Brothers Funerals, and is headed by Bob Newbould.
■ Seven News Melbourne captioned an interview with Det. Sgt. Lionel Joseph as "Det Sgt Lionel Rose". Seven News has been trailing Nine News audience figures by as much as 160,000.
r Observbei z Show
INDUSTRY MEMBERS RECALL EX-3KZ, 3MP PRESENTER
● Melbourne radio veteran John Vertigan (ex-3UZ, 3DB) travelled to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast for a luncheon meeting of that state’s Radio And Television Survivors (RATS). Former Victorian people included Les Heil (3KZ) and Henry Gay (3UZ, 3AK). From left: Di Barrenger, John Sheed, Lyn Ford, Les Heil, Judy Collis, John Vertigan, Max Barrenger, Ken Guy andHenry Gay.
Pacific Star in the black
■ The operator of 1116 SEN and myMP, Pacific Star Network, has recorded a $1.9 million net cash flow surplus for the 2012-13 financial year, according to figures lodged with the Australian Stock Exchange. Company secretary Stephen Sweeney last week lodged figures stating that PSN had $17.3 million turnover over the 12 months, with staff costs accounting for $8.7 million. The company had paiud $612,000 in dividends during the year. The company had $3.4 million cash reserves as at June 30, including $2.4 million deposits at call. Melbourne
Observer
On This Day Thursday, August 1
Friday, August 2
Saturday, August 3
Sunday, August 4
Monday, August 5
Tuesday, August 6
■ West Indies cricketer Sir Frank Worrell was born in 1924. He died aged 42 in 1967. English song-writer Lionel Bart (Begleiter) was born in London inb 1930. He died aged 68 in 1999. Socialite Lady Sonia McMahon (Hopkins) was born in 1932; died aged 77 in 2010.
■ Australian actress Gwen Plumb was born in Sydney in 1912. She died aged 89 in 2002. American actor Carroll O’Connor was born in New York City in 1924. He died aged 76 in 2001. Irish actor Peter O’Toole was born in Connemara, Ireland, in 1932 (81).
■ American singer Tony Bennett was born in New York City in 1926 (87). UK TV and radio presenter Sir Terry Wogan is 75 (1938). US actor Martin Sheen was born as Ramon Estevez in 1940 (73). Actor Jay North is 62 (1951). He is best known for childhood appearances as Dennis The Menace.
■ The Queen Mother (Elziabeth Bowes-Lyon) was born in 1900. She died aged 101 in 2002. US trumpeter and skat vocalist Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans in 1901. He died aged 69 in 1971. First black US President Barack Obama was born in Honolulu in 1963. He is 52.
■ The first man to walk on the moon (1969), Neil Armstrong is 83 (1930). Actress Penne Hackforth-Jones was born in 1943. She was born in Connecticut, and died earlier this year. Rock singer ‘Angry’ (Gary) Anderson is 66. Melbourne entertainer Samantha (Cheryl) Sang was born in 1953 (60).
■ Comedienne and TV executive Lucille Ball was born in 1911. She died aged 77 in 1989. American actor Robert Mitchum was born in 1917. He died aged 79 in 1997. Musician Geoff Harvey is 78. English singer Geri Halliwell was born in England in 1972 (41).
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, July 31, 2013 - Page 101
Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler ONE NIGHT SHOW
ShowBiz!
For Those Who Have Lost The Plot
Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven ■ Monday, August 5. Amber is convinced to end her relationship with Robbo, but is it too late? Kyle helps Kate when Mason isn't there for her; Callum is miserable about his love life. ■ Tuesday, August 6. Robbo puts the pressure on Mason; Josh is rattled by Hudson's deal; Lucas fights the temptation to gamble his way out of trouble. ■ Wednesday, August 7. The Willis family come to loggerheads over Lassiters' sponsorship of Hudson; Kate and Kyle work together for Georgia's fundraiser; Mason tries to raise the money he needs for Robbo. ■ Thursday, August 8. Amber finally gets another chance with Joshua, but will their happiness last? Imogen is in denial about her eating disorder; the 'Dad's of Erinsborough' photo exhibition has Matt feeling low ■ Friday, August 9. How far will Mason go to protect Amber from Robbo's threat? Toadie and Sonya are rattled by Robbo's intimidation tactics; Amber blames Imogen for Josh's rejection; Callum is determined to act on his crush on Imogen.
Home and Away ■ Monday, August 5. Ricky and Brax try to get through to Casey about his drinking. Roo is worried about Casey and Maddy's friendship. Sally is concerned she has pushed Roo and Harvey out of their home. April and Dex practise conflict resolution techniques to combat Bradley's dislike of April. ■ Tuesday, August 6. Casey and Maddy's friendship becomes increasingly destructive. Tamara faces her memories returning. Alf comes up with a new plan for Pippa. April gets the chance to prove herself to Dr Bradley. ■ Wednesday, August 7. Tamara realises she still loves Casey, but her feelings for Kyle have not changed. Harvey seeks to find a way to right his wrong with Sally and Pippa. Bianca struggles to get Heath excited about wedding planning. Spencer and Sasha navigate their way around the rules of their newly resumed relationship. ■ Thursday, August 8. Double Episode. Tamara feels lost, caught between her love for two brothers. Casey returns from hospital and is hostile towards Kyle. Marilyn and John work on their business idea and Roo becomes concerned about the amount of time they are spending together. Chris is falling in love with Indi and the Braxton brothers set off for Melbourne.
Star Bursts
★
Actor Russell Crowe has sent a Twitter message: “Dear Malcolm Turnbull, I am a union member, a tax payer. You are the most trusted politician in our country, destiny calls. Please consider.”
★
The death of the legendary Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter JJ Cale was announced at the weekend. He was best known for the songs After Midnight, Cocaine, Crazy Mama and Call Me The Breeze.
★
The musical Matilda is heading to Melbourne in September 2015, reports Catherine Lambert of the Herald Sun.
★
Southern Cross Austereo has linked with Channel 7 to promote X Factor. Big Brother is getting a good run on Melbourne’s Mix 101.1.
★
Was that Melbourne Observer Editor Ash Long seen making a cameo performance this week as Sir Herbert in A Fruity Melodrama (Only A Mill Girl or The Doings At The Hall). The British comedy is older than he is!
■ When a show is one for one night only, it usually means that a bunch of high profile performers have managed to get the night off from their other work to get together and present a labour of love. And that seems to be the case with the Jason Robert Brown show Songs For A New World, which is coming to Chapel Off Chapel on Monday (August 5) at 7 pm. Songs ForANew World has been described as an abstract musical, with no specific location than the natural ambiguity of the human heart and mind. It is a show that needs very talented performers to make it work, and when it gets them it is a powerhouse of music and emotion that knocks you sideways. A fine cast of well known music theatre performers Jennifer Vuletic, Mark Doggett, Patrice Tipoki Arkins, Kuki Tipoki, with musical director Laura Tipoki and her band will take the audience to the stories and songs that sweep folk away in Songs For A New World. If you are wondering where you might have seen
Veritas
Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic
Some critics don’t get it
● Melissa Doyle: hosted Sunday Night on 7 ■ Most critics said Melissa Doyle’s career at Channel 7 was on the scrapheap after she left the Sunrise program. Not Veritas! This column predicted that Mel would be back, stronger than ever, in Seven’s nightly prime-time. And there she was at the weekend ... freshly back from London and the birth of Prince George ... and fronting the network’s flagship current affairs program, Sunday Night. Sydney newsreader Chris Bath’s absence from the SN hosting role was put down to taking a break. Expect to see more of Mel in the nightly spots. ● Jennifer Vuletic these performers, you may Pack and Mark was part remember Jennifer of the acclaimed Opera Vuletic as one of the three Australia's South Pacific adult girlfriends in Mamma cast. Mia, and the hilarious BarBe part of this one night oness in Chitty Chitty Bang only show by booking at Bang. Patrice graced the www.chapeloffchapel. stage in Wicked, while com.au or 8290 7000. - Julie Houghton Kuki comes from Tap
● The Block finale netted up to 2.8 million viewers on Sunday night to provide Nine’s biggest audience of the year. It was the second-most watched of any free-to-air show for 2013. In Melbourne there were 930,000 watching with 814,000 in Sydney. Underbelly: Squizzy atrracted up to 1.68 million viewers.
SOLO RECITAL
■ Readers may think that solo pianists are dedicated, serious people who contain their emotions through the discipline of the individual piano recital. And then there is Stefan Cassomenos. I find that watching Stefan play is a delight for the eye as well as the ear, because his passion for his music is so obvious as he immerses himself in his playing, his wild curls bouncing around as his fingers fly over the keys. Of course, there is also Stefan the official Royal Melbourne Philharmonic accompanist, where he is a skilled and sympathetic associate artist to solo singers or in the orchestra under Maestro Andrew Wailes's conductor's baton. Stefan is about to leave Australia's shores for some big musical adventures overseas, but before he goes he couldn't resist staging a solo recital at St Martin's Church, a popular concert venue on the corner of Cromwell Rd and Wilson St, South Yarra on Saturday (Aug. 3) at 7.30pm. Stefan is presenting a diverse program including Prokofiev's epic Sonata No 6, written in the late 1930s, which Stefan says chillingly encapsulating the tensions that would eventually tear up the world in the war that followed. To balance the tension of the Prokofiev, Stefan will play what he describes as heavenly works by Bach and
Derryn taunts the Courts
● Derryn Hinch: criticisng Court judgements ■ Attention-seeker Derryn Hinch, due back in the Supreme Court on September 23, has been on the TV airwaves and on his Human Headline website, again criticising decisions delivered by Victorian courts. Hinch last week criticised a Melbourne Magistrates’ Court decision for ex-Haileybury College student Liam Daniel Sweeney, to not be sent to jail after a glassing attack. Hinch went on Channel 7’s Today Tonight program to criticise the decision by Magistrate Jack Vandersteen. “"The sentence is a disgrace, makes a mockery of our legal system,” Hinch said at his website. Veritas wonders about the wisdom of criticising the Victorian bench ahead of his own two-day trial to contest contempt of court charges, in Grand Final week.
Filling our screens ■ X Factor (Channel 7) and Big Brother (Channel 9) started on Monday night ... and Nine is heavily promoting their premiere of Australia’s Got Talent. Without being indelicate, AGT judges Kyle Sandilands and Dawn French fill the screens ... as did Tracy Grimshaw as host for the Bert Newton 75 Years special at the weekend. Back in the old days, Veritas could have fixed that with an adjustment to the ‘horizontal hold’. Younger viewers would not have a clue what this critic is talking about! ● Stefan Cassomenos Messiaen, and a couple of firecrackers for good measure. Other composers included in the program are Haydn, Rachmaninoff, Ligeti and Vine. Book your ticket for Stefan Cassomenos's solo piano recital at www.trybooking.com/56418 or through St Martin's parish office on 9827 3324. - Julie Houghton
Weeps for investors ■ 3AW afternoon host Denis Walter broke down while being interviewed by colleague Neil Mitchell last week when discussing Gippsland Secureed Investment. The investment company, endorsed by Walter, froze $150 million in funds. Walter said he found out about the withdrawal and deposit freeze during the newsbreak of his 3AW show and said he "felt like falling to pieces". The Mitchell interview was cosy.
Page 102 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013
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Movies, DVDs With Jim Sherlock and Aaron Rourke
What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs
● A good day to Die Hard: Bruce Willis is back as John McClane in the fifth instalment of the Die Hard series. It may not win any best picture, screenplay or acting awards, but this shortest and weakest in the series has some pretty impressive over the top action sequences, and they're all real. FILM: A GOOD DAY TO DIE HARD: Genre: Action/Thriller. Cast: Bruce Willis, Sebastian Koch, Jai Courtney. Year: 2013. Rating: M. Running Time: 98 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: **½ Verdict: The Die Hard franchise continues with the fifth in the series with our hero John McClane this travelling to Russia to help out his imprisoned son, only to discover that he is a CIA operative causing them to team up against underworld forces. What began in 1988 with what many consider as the best action movie of the 1980's falls into a spectacular mess here of epic proportions. Dumb script and wooden performances are saved only by some of the most jaw dropping car chases and pyrotechnics you'll ever see. At least that's real. Otherwise, a poor effort resulting in the weakest of the series. FILM: NIGHT OF THE HUNTER: Cast: Robert Mitchum, Shelley Winters, Lillian Gish. Genre: Crime/Drama/Film Noir. Year: 1955. Rating: M. Running Time: 93 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***** Verdict: Screen legend Robert Mitchum in one of the best and most frightening roles of his career as he dominates the screen with chilling reality as a religious fanatic who marries a gullible widow whose young children are reluctant to tell him where their real father hid money he'd stolen in a robbery. Brimming with many haunting and unforgettable images. Mesmurizing from the opening frame to the last. One of the great Film Noir classics! Directed with great conviction by the late, great Charles Laughton in his first and only directorial film effort. FILM: PATHS OF GLORY: Cast: Kirk Douglas. Ralph Meeker, Adolphe Menjou. Genre: War/Drama. Year: 1957. Rating: PG. Running Time: 88 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ***** Verdict: Stanley Kubrick's utterly compelling and powerful film based on an extraordinary true story of soldiers in WW1 who refuse to continue with an impossible attack, so their superiors decide to make an example of them. Gripping from the opening frame to the emotion charged climax (that's Stanley Kubrick's future wife singing at the end). The trench and battle sequences remain unsurpassed and hugely inspirational to this day. Star Kirk Douglas, who also produced the film, is a knockout in one of the roles and performances of his career. FILM: LIFEBOAT: Genre: War/Thriller. Cast: Tallulah Bankhead, William Bendix, Hume Cronyn. Year: 1944. Rating: PG. Running Time: 95 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: **** Summary: Compelling story set at sea in a lifeboat during WWII of several survivors of a torpedoed ship who find themselves in the same boat with one of the men who sunk the ship. Only the legendary 'Master of Suspense' Alfred Hitchcock would have attempted this, and he comes up trumps as a result. Entirely set in a lifeboat. One of the fun moments is Hitchcock's trademark cameo. Another great testament to a master filmmaker, resulting in a thrilling, humorous, exciting, haunting and chilling journey. One I hope I never have to make. - James Sherlock
DENNIS FARINA February 29, 1944 - July 22, 2013
● Dennis Farina in the action/comedy Midnight Run (1988). ■ Tough guy character actor Dennis thriller (in both its stunning cinematogFarina sadly and unexpectedly passed raphy and atmospheric music score), away on Monday July 22, aged 69, due this is still my favourite Lecter movie, to complications from a blood clot. despite the Oscar glory and box-office Known mostly for playing imposing success achieved by The Silence Of gangster figures, he also created a num- The Lambs (1991). ber of memorable screen roles as sternThe underplaying of the serial killbut-fair law enforcers. ers and their gruesome exploits is what Born in Chicago, Illinois on Feb- makes Manhunter so unnerving (Tom ruary 29, 1944 (which meant he only Noonan is quietly terrifying as the celebrated his actual birthday 15 times), murderer the FBI are chasing), and a Mr Farina was a dedicated Chicago great cast includes William L police officer before becoming an ac- Peterson, Joan Allen and Stephen tor. Lang. Serving on the force for 18 years, Mr Farina had the lead role in the he admitted that he was such a bad shot outstanding, must-see detective series that his fellow officers gave him the Crime Story (1986-1988) (*****), crenickname 'The Great Wounder'. ated and produced by Michael Mann. Mr Farina's first movie role came The show may have been short-lived, at the age of 37, when he was cast as but it has a huge following, and deservCarl, one of the lead henchmen in edly so (it still has one of the most surMichael Mann's directorial debut prising and satisfying endings seen on Thief (1981) (****). the small screen). Focusing on a career safe-cracker Mr Farina gives a terrific perfor(James Caan) who wants to leave the mance as gang boss Jimmy Serrano business and start a family, only to find in Midnight Run (1988) (*****), one out that it seems impossible to escape of the best action/comedies ever made. Starring Robert De Niro, the criminal world, Thief is a meticulously detailed, stylish drama/thriller Charles Grodin, Yaphet Kotto and which introduced audiences to a very John Ashton, this is Hollywood talented film-maker, and features a film-making at its most entertaining. strong supporting cast including TuesMr Farina's connection with day Weld, James Belushi, Robert Michael Mann continued with the classic 1980's TV series Miami Vice Prosky and Willie Nelson. Just a side-note to Mr Mann: you (1984-1989) (****), in which he apmay have misgivings about your sec- peared in three episodes; this hardond feature The Keep (1983), but the working actor also delivered strong film does have a large fan base (I am turns in Mac (1992) (***½); Another one of those fans), all of which are Stakeout (1993); Romeo Is Bleeding keenly waiting for it to reach DVD, or (1993) (***½); Striking Distance (1994) even better, Blu-Ray (Shout Factory (**); and most notably Get Shorty USA and Arrow UK would do highly (1995) (**1/2), where he more than held impressive releases). his own against acting heavyweights Mr Farina appeared in a number such as Gene Hackman, Danny De of popular TV shows, including Vito and John Travolta. Mr Farina came to Australia to Hardcastle And McCormick, Hunter and Remington Steele (all in 1985), and promote the film, where I had the privihad a pivotal supporting part in the ac- lege of meeting him, and he was the tion/drama Code Of Silence (1985) perfect gentlemen, and it was an abso(***). lute joy to speak to him (I remember Starring Chuck Norris (in what is we talked about the thriller Copycat probably his best film) and directed by with Sigourney Weaver). Andrew Davis (Nico : Above The Other substantial productions inLaw / The Fugitive), the action star cluded Eddie (1996), That Old Feeling plays a loner cop fighting both drug (1997), Out Of Sight (1998) (****), gangs and corrupt police officers, with Saving Private Ryan (1998) (**), Resurprisingly effective results. indeer Games (2000), Snatch (2000), Also stars iconic heavy Henry the TV movie Empire Falls (2005), Silva (The Manchurian Candidate / Law & Order TV series (2004-2006), Sharky's Machine / Nico : Above The You Kill Me (2007) (***), Bottle Shock Law / Ghost Dog : The Way Of The (2008), The Last Rites Of Joe May Samurai). (2011), and the ill-fated TV series Luck A small role in Jo Jo Dancer, Your (2011-2012), produced by Michael Life Is Calling (1986) (**½) followed, Mann and starring Dustin Hoffman an autobiographical drama written, pro- and Nick Nolte. duced, directed, and starring Richard Mr Farina will appear in two epiPryor, which proved to be an interest- sodes of the hit TV series New Girl, ing but ultimately uninvolving film that and also in the feature films Authors did have the occasionally convincing Anonymous and Lucky Stiff (officially moment. his final film), which are currently in Mr Farina re-teamed with post-production. Michael Mann on Manhunter (1986) Dennis Farina was one of those (****½), an adaptation of the Thomas actors who always made an impression Harris novel Red Dragon, and the first on screen, no matter how small the role film to feature Hannibal Lecter (here was, and is another character actor who played by Scottish actor Brian Cox). will be sorely missed. - Aaron Rourke A low-key, eerie and ultra-stylish ● DVDs and Blu-Rays kindly supplied by Video Vision, 177-179 Carlisle St, Balaclava. A number of Dennis Farina's films are available on DVD. For information or bookings on these particular titles please call 9531 2544.
Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE HEAT. 2. THIS IS THE END. 3. THE CONJOURING. 4. DESPICABLE ME 2. 5. PACIFIC RIM. 6. MAN OF STEEL. 7. THE LONE RANGER. 8. MONSTERS UNIVERSITY. 9. WORLD WAR Z. 10. EPIC. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: JULY 25: BEHIND THE CANDELABRA, BYZANTIUM, THE WOLVERINE, WHAT'S IN A NAME? AUGUST 1: 100 BLOODY ACRES, GREETINGS FROM TIM BUCKLEY, THE WAY WAY BACK, THE WORLD'S END. THE DVD TOP RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. A GOOD DAY TO DIE HARD [Action/Thriller/Bruce Willis, Jai Courtney, Sebastian Koch]. 2. ZERO DARK THIRTY [Drama/ Thriller/Jessica Chastain, James Gandolfini]. 3. THE HOST [Sci-Fi/Diane Kruger, Saoirse Ronan, William Hurt]. 4. JACK THE GIANT SLAYER [Action/ Adventure/Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci]. 5. PARKER [Action/Jason Statham, Jennifer Lopez]. 6. CLOUD ATLAS [Drama/Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant, Jim Broadbent]. 7. EVIL DEAD (2013) [R18+Horror/ Jane Levy, Jessica Lucas]. 8. OZ: THE GREAT AND POWERFUL [Fantasy/Adventure/James Franco, Mila Kunis]. 9. THE INCREDIBLE BURT WONDERSTONE [Comedy/Jim Carrey, Steve Carrell]. 10. FLIGHT [Drama/Denzel Washington, Bruce Greenwood, Kelly Reilly]. Also: DJANGO UNCHAINED, PARANORMAN, THE LAST STAND, SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK, BROKEN CITY, TOWER BLOCK, LINCOLN, THE PAPERBOY, GREAT EXPECTATIONS, THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: BULLET TO THE HEAD [Action/ Sylvester Stallone, Sarah Shahi]. ESCAPE FROM PLANET EARTH [Animated/Adventure/Brendan Fraser, Ricky Gervais]. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: MAN OF A THOUSAND FACES [1957/Drama/James Cagney/Dorothy Malone/Robert Evans]. THE SECRET OF SANTA VITTORIA [1969/War/Drama/Anthony Quinn]. THE FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX [1965/ Adventure/James Stewart, Richard Attenborough]. MORITURI: Code Name Saboteur [1965/War/Marlon Brando, Yul Brynner]. BLACK MAGIC [1949/Drama/Orson Welles, Akim Tamiroff]. DRESSED TO KILL [R18+/1980/ Thriller/Mystery/Michael Caine, Nancy Allen, Angie Dickinson]. THE INVISIBLE MAN RETURNS [1940/Drama/Vincent Price, Nan Grey]. THE SHINING/FULLMETAL JACKET: Double Feature [R18+/Horror/War]. THE SEARCHERS/THE WILD BUNCH/HOW THE WEST WAS WON: Triple Feature. Turn To Page 107
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - Page 103
Observer Showbiz INDEPENDENT THEATRE
Local Theatre With Cheryl Threadgold
Melbourne
Observer
CPAC STAGES ‘OLIVER’ At the Recital Centre
● Lyall Brooks, James O'Connell, Mark Tregonning and Luke Elliot in Savages at fortyfivedownstairs from August 16-September 8. ■ Multi-award winning playwright Patricia Cornelius has created a dynamic new Australian play, Savages, which can be seen from August 16-September 8 at fortyfivedownstairs. Savages takes a tough look at masculinity and misogyny amongst a pack of ordinary young men. It is a cautionary tale about four friends who embark on the holiday of a life time, but their excitement is soured by anger, bitterness and disappointment. The pack forms - the dark side of mateship emerges. Patricia Cornelius's new work has been described as "a tough and frank look at masculinity and the sexual behaviour of men in groups". Performance Season: August 16-September 8 Times: Tues - Fri 7.30pm, Sat 5pm and 8pm,Sun 5pm Venue: fortyfivedownstairs, 45 Flinders La, Melbourne Tickets: $45 Full, $37.50 Conc.; Groups 6+ $35, Preview $25. Bookings: 9662 9966 or www.fortyfivedownstairs.com
REVIEW: ‘SUBSTITUTE’ ■ James Clayden is sometime painter, sometime sculptor, sometime writer/performer. He acknowledges his considerable body of works to be experimental rather than commercial. I suspect that if one had seen more of his other works Substitute For The Mechanics Institute might be more satisfying, but as someone who has not, I found myself not altogether at ease with the disorientation that he seemed to want me to experience. Clayden takes us to the bare essentials of personal interrogation, but for what purpose or with what effect is unclear. There was almost a feel of electric therapy about the many flashes of light in darkness before action, followed by noisy searching sounds in the darkness, then too obvious operation of switches and effects by the actor, followed by fragmented speeches. In a small venue this all added a sort of ‘clunkiness’ to the work. A smoother, filmic direction may have worked better, capturing dream like results. I needed narrative and I suspect that that is what Clayden wanted me to want , although he purposely did not deliver . Rather I had to accept abstractions and fragments and reach for satisfaction in contemplation , rather as he had in childhood, wondering just what happened in those Mechanics’ Institutes. Language and imagery suggesting harsh loss of babies at birth ended the performance abruptly - thoughts begun but not growing to fruition … ? Perhaps. Clayden has often worked collaboratively with Helen and Kevin Hopkins, but I confess that I found their end-product on this occasion rather more for their satisfaction as performers than for me as audience member. Season: Until August 4, Wed – Sun 7.30 Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St, Carlton Tickets: $25/$15 Bookings: www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142 - Maggie Morrison
AUDITIONS ■ Viola Theatre: Maiden Ladies Drop in any Sunday at 8.00pm at the Campbell Library, Melville Road, Brunswick. Director: David Keane. Contact 9384 1277 or Matilda03@optusnet.com.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Amateur Group (STAG): Funny Money (by Ray Cooney) August 18 at 5.30pm, August 19 at 7.30pm at the Strathmore Community Theatre. Director: Jonne Finnemore. Audition bookings: jonne2@optusnet.com.au
● Oliver! opens in Pakenham on 17 August. Meet Fagin (Richard Green), with the two boys who share the role of Oliver (Oliver Thomson, 11 and Soren Adkin, 8), and the Artful Dodger (Josh McNiff). Photo: Lee Moulton ■ After their sell-out season of Hairspray, the Cardinia Performing Arts Company is proud to present Oliver!, opening on Saturday,. August 17 at 8pm at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham, followed by a gala supper. The season continues on August 18, 25 at 2pm, August 23, 24, 30 and 31 at 8pm, and August 29 at 7pm. Ticket prices: adults $32, conc $29, child U15 $25, family (2 adults and 2 children) $105. Thursday, August 29: All tix $25. Bookings: 0407090354 or online at www.trybooking.com
SHOWS ■ Sherbrooke Theatre Company: Agatha Crispie (Written and directed by Cenarth Fox) Until August 10 at 8.15pm, Sunday at 5.15pm at the Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Road, Doncaster. Tickets: $25/$23. Bookings: 1300 650 209 www.sherbrooketc.org.au ■ Frankston Theatre Group: Eric's Homecoming (Written and directed by Roy Thompson) Until August 4 at the Mount Eliza Community Centre, Canadian Bay Road, Mount Eliza. Tickets: $26.50/$24.50. Bookings: 1300 665 www.frankstontheatregroup. org.au ■ SLAMS: Rent August 2 - 17 at 8.00pm at the Knox Community Arts Centre, Corner Scoresby Road and Mountain Highway, Bayswater. Director/Musical Director: Tyson Legg. Tickets: $32,$28/Group 10 or more $25. Bookings: www.trybooking.com/ DBUER or 9720 3205. ■ 1812 Theatre: Sleuth (by Anthony Shaffer) August 8 - 31 at the 1812 Theatre, 3-5 Rose Street, Upper Ferntree Gully at 8.00pm, matinee 4.00pm. Director: Malcolm Sussman. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 9758 3964 www.1812theatre.com.au ■ Peridot Theatre Inc: The Wisdom of Eve August 9 - 24 at 8.00pm, August 11, 17 at 2.15pm and August 18 at 4.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Road, Mount Waverley. Director: Annette deBoer. Tickets: $23/$20. Bookings: 1300 138 645 or email peridotboxoffice@yahoo.com.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): Laying the Ghost August 15 - 25 at the Strathmore Community Theatre, Loeman Street, Strathmore. Director: Robert Harsley. Tickets: $20/ $15.Bookings: 9382 6284 www.stagtheatre.org. ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Echoes (by Richard Nash) August 15 - 31 at 8.00pm, Sunday matinees 2.15pm, at Brighton Theatre, Corner Wilson and Carpenter Streets, Brighton. Director: Ewen Crockett. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 752 126 or www.brightontheatreco.com.au ■ The Basin Theatre Group: Kid Stakes (by Ray Lawler) August 16 - September 8 at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Road, The Basin. Director: Christine Grant. Tickets: $25 all performances. Book online at www.thebasintheatre.org.au or call 1300 784 668. ■ Cardinia Performing Arts Company (CPAC): Oliver August 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31 at 8.00pm, Sun. 2.00pm, Thurs. 7.00pm at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham. Director: Lee Moulton. Bookings: 0407 090 354 or www.trybooking.com
● Riley Lee plays shakuhachi (a Japanese bamboo flute) with cello/piano duo Manins and Gould and David Jones (percussion) at the Melbourne Recital Centre on Friday, August 9 at 7pm. ■ The Melbourne Recital Centre presents cello/piano duo Imogen Manins and Tony Gould with David Jones (percussion) and Riley Lee (shakuhachi, a Japanese bamboo flute) on Friday, August 9 at 7pm. This is a special opportunity to see and hear these four musicians together, performing pieces from a new CD release titled Such A Sky, as well as some remarkable new collaborative pieces. Performance date and time: Friday, August 9 at 7pm Venue: Melbourne Recital Centre: Salon, Corner Southbank Blvd and Sturt St, Southbank. Salon seating is in cabaret mode at small tables with food and beverages available. Tickets: $45 Full Price, $35 Concession (Transaction fees may apply). Bookings: 9699 3333 or book online: melbournerecital. com.au
SHOWS ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company: Light in the Piazza (by Craig Lucas) August 21 - September 7 at 8.15pm, Sunday matinees at 2.30pm at the Athenaeum Theatre, 39-41 Castella Street, Lilydale. Director: Alan Burrows. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9735 1777. ■ Track Youth Theatre: Pot of Gold (by Ed Bailey) August 23 - 24 at 7.30pm (Fri.) and 2.00pm and 7.30pm (Sat.) at the Renaissance Theatre, 926 High Street, Kew. Director: Ed Bailey. Tickets: $15/$10. Bookings: 9818 3811 or trackyouth@gmail.com
AUDITIONS ■ Frankston Theatre Group: 3 One Act Comedies (by Nick Warburton, David Tristram and Frank Vickery). August 11 at 10.00am and August 12 at 7.30pm. Directors: Rob Lister, Keith Gledhill and David McCall. Audition bookings: Keith 9708 8498. ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company Inc: The Dixie Swim Club (by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten) August 18 at 2.00pm at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Road, Parkdale. Director: Cheryl Richards. Audition bookings: 0412 133 071. ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum August 24, 25. Director: Barbara Hughes; Musical Director: Janet Provan; Choreographer: Jenny VincentGreen. Audition bookings: 9397 3054. ■ Sherbrooke Theatre Company: Face to Face September 8 at 2.00pm and September 9 at 7.30pm at The Factory, Factory 4, 22 Jesmond Road, Croydon. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Audition bookings: 0416 141 838.
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au y, , g
Page 104 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 Melbourne
Observer
Lovatts Crossword No 3 Across
1. Beaten convincingly 6. Mischief-makers 11. Residing 15. War memorial 20. Uncooked 21. Yellow pigment 22. Cremation vase 23. Heater 24. South Africa's capital 25. Consecrated as priest 27. Coat-of-arms study 28. Window ledge 29. Take shot from cover 31. Light beams 32. Bouffant or beehive 36. Opening 37. Struggle 38. Rise 41. Strength 44. Capital of Japan 45. Unwanted plants 48. Toronto's province 49. View 52. Trendiest 56. Dangers 57. Deadened 58. Divert (4,3) 61. Make beloved 62. Arctic people 63. Addis ..., Ethiopia 64. More uncivil 65. Shockingly 66. Pasta dumpling dish 67. Utilised (resources) 71. Bathroom floor & wall specialist 73. Welsh dog 75. Enter uninvited 80. Citizen of Glasgow or Edinburgh 82. Movie hero, ... Jones 83. Singer, ... Redding 85. House 86. Source 88. Italian seaport 90. Body preserver 91. Derogatory 93. Up to date, ... of 94. Penetrating 95. Operation, ... procedure 96. Innocence 97. Synthetic fertiliser ingredient 99. Plant, ... vera 100. Gave therapy to 104. Refurbish with weapons 105. Baby grand 106. Lose feathers 107. Greets 111. Brawl 113. Mr & ... 114. Filled pastry 115. Live 117. Transfix 118. Authority (3-2) 121. Evade decision 122. Snouts 125. Vehicle's wheel cover 126. Assents with head 127. In contact with 129. Raise stakes, up the ... 131. Jane Austen novel 132. Staffed 135. Muslim leader 136. Energy 139. False 140. XC 144. Animal welfare group (1,1,1,1,1) 145. Spurs 146. Ruined Inca city, ... Picchu 147. Amaze
Across 148. Polluted shower (4,4) 149. Peru beast 150. Cambodia's ... Penh 152. Poisonous tree-snake 154. Midday sleep 157. Minor quarrel 158. Young frog 162. Soccer net 163. Saunters 166. Bright (future) 167. Soviet states (1,1,1,1) 169. Tennis great, Arthur ... 171. Home stereo (2-2) 172. Turkey's capital 173. Kingdom 175. Frenzied 176. Below 179. Travelling stagehand 180. Fashion sense 182. Anticipated arrival (1,1,1) 183. Universal age 184. Great sea 186. Supposition 189. Holy city 190. Distance runner 191. West African land 192. Guided (to seat) 196. Female horse 197. Spine part 198. Misbehaves (5,2) 199. Assignments 201. Picketing workers 202. Flat bun 203. The ... Tenors 204. Lesson 205. Sufficient 208. Large indefinite number 210. Flute category 211. ..., taut & terrific 212. Constantly busy (2,3,2) 213. Musical symbol 215. Chroniclers 219. Donkeys 221. Dot/dash code 223. Repainted (car) 227. Ape or monkey 228. Bestows (knowledge) 230. Elsewhere excuse 231. Nocturnal hours 232. Dealt with 233. More sacred 234. Least frank 238. Yeast 239. Hoped (to) 240. Complied, ... by the rules 243. Off correct path 246. Reporter 247. Moroccan port 250. Angry & flustered (3,2) 251. Refute 253. Unites 256. Alexander's ... Band 257. Frisks (about) 258. Rationally 262. ... & papa 263. Duchess of York 266. Calf flesh 268. Fine particles 269. Keep up 270. Tonic (4-2-2) 271. Unorthodox person 272. Football arbiter 273. River creature 274. Just a minute, wait a ... 275. Sang alpine-style 276. Prisoner's shackles (3,5) 277. Thaws 278. Poured
Down 1. Portable lamp 2. Half-diameters 3. Steam burn 4. Cupid 5. Bold 7. Adversaries 8. Glorify 9. Boneless lamb cut 10. Peruse quickly 11. Lower 12. Man/beast 13. Slimmest 14. Sets alight 15. Dr Jekyll's alter ego (2,4) 16. ... & twos 17. Russian mountains 18. Actor, ... Murphy 19. Trifled 24. Conspire 26. Tied 30. Vexed 33. Loss of memory 34. Straighten again 35. Foreboding 38. Normally (2,1,4) 39. Wilder (of scheme) 40. Small lumps 42. Promissory notes (1,1,2) 43. Genetic mixes 46. Conclusions 47. Indian pulse dish 49. Plug converter 50. June birthstone 51. Mortification 53. From Mali or Kenya 54. Downy duck 55. Wood-eating insect 59. Keeping clear of 60. Fruit farms 67. Water outlet 68. Regret 69. Bewitch 70. Seclusion 72. Schedule 74. Irons or putters (4,5) 76. Meekness 77. Of the skull 78. Side of sofa 79. Wasp relatives 81. Likens 84. Cuts off 87. Mutually held (2,6) 89. Row 91. Informal photo 92. Austrian or Czech 98. Double bike 101. Cuban dance 102. Anew 103. Edits (text) 108. Within reach (2,4) 109. Built-up (zone) 110. Praise highly 112. Ridiculously 116. Give permanent fame to 119. Agreement to end hostilities 120. Doleful 123. Female hormone 124. Wipe out 128. Cotton tops (1-6) 130. Locals
Down 132. Gestures without words 133. Rock face recess 134. Explode 137. Longed (for) 138. Potato variety 141. Koran religion 142. Internet message 143. Long time 151. Hassle 153. Scottish children 155. Internal 156. Group of bees 159. Tank's weaponry 160. Boards 161. Tear jaggedly 164. Find fault with 165. Select band 168. Smudging 170. Ravenously 173. Recall 174. Familiarises 177. Insulin takers 178. Edge of highway 181. Stencil 185. Bidding sales 186. Teen idol (3,4) 187. Stretchy tape 188. Underwriter 193. Secret collector 194. Willingly 195. Feared greatly 200. Closing 201. System of drainage 206. Romantic US falls 207. Home for terminally-ill 208. Tiny amounts of time 209. Vigilantly 211. Tsar's wife 214. Naval escort ship 216. As a group (2,5) 217. Speaking publicly 218. Falters 220. Space film genre (3-2) 222. Radio acknowledgment 224. Mercury & Pluto 225. Born Free author, Joy ... 226. Optic orb 229. Cleaning agent, caustic ... 232. Meals list 235. Sticking quality 236. Bury (corpse) 237. Blue gem 241. Annoying 242. Aimless person 244. Game hunter 245. Bowmen 248. Bigoted 249. Light-rail car 251. Please reply (1,1,1,1) 252. Smiled brightly 253. Humid 254. Writer, ... Dahl 255. On a par 259. Rink 260. Decree 261. Coupled 262. Inconsiderable 264. Colony insects 265. Copied 267. Frilly fabric
Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - Page 105
Solution on Page 97
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Page 112 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31www, 2013
www.MelbourneObserver.com.au
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs
4th win in 41 outings ■ Lawrence (Smeaton) trainer Ken Whelan's 4Y-O Artiscape/Sokismegdbye gelding Kisartis recorded his fourth victory in 41 outings, when successful in the Regional Contractors Pace for C4 & C5 class over 2200 metres at Bray Raceway Ballarat on Thursday. Driven by John Caldow, Kisartis starting from inside the second row pushed through to follow the pole mark leader Discrimination enjoying a lovely passage for most of the race. When the leader shifted ground approaching the home turn, Caldow was quick to take the opportunity and send Kisartis to the front, but a long way from the wire. Gaining a break on his rivals on straightening, Kisartis scored by a head from Miss Precious Mach (one/one - four wide home turn), with Bettor Believe It a head away in third place after facing the breeze, both runner up and third placegetter being inconvenienced by Discrimination at a crucial stage. The mile rate 1-57.1.
Swift move forward ■ Melton trainer Sue Hunter's team are always competitive whenever they go to the races and Mach Three/Celibacy colt Motor Smoker was an impressive winner of the 11th Heat of the American Ideal Breeders Crown (Series 16) for Two Year Old Colts & Geldings over 2150 metres at Lord's Raceway Bendigo on Tuesday July 23. Driven by Sydney based Luke McCarthy, Motor Smoker after starting from outside the front line was restrained to possie near last, with John Justice's Big Bang Leonard leading from the pole. When the heavily supported Handsome Major from the Adam Kelly barn made a swift forward move racing for the bell to lead for the final circuit, Motor Smoker was able to trail Gowan Loch in the three wide line in the last lap. Storming down the outside on straightening, Motor Smoker prevailed by a half head over Handsome Major in a rate of 2-01, with Big Bang Leonard holding down third.
Finished race in style ■ Adam Kelly and Gavin Lang recuperated some of their losses when the heavily backed former Kiwi 5-Y-O McArdle/Another Sheila gelding Eliminator greeted the judge in the CV Batteries Claiming Pace over 2150 metres. Settling in the second half of the field from gate two on the second line, Eliminator after going forward hitting the back straight on the final occasion was able to slot in one/one for a breather before the home turn. Angling wide on straightening, Eliminator finished his race off in fine style to record a 4.3 metre victory in a slick 1-57.2 from a death-seating Our Icarus and Meet The Punisher which led.
Big winner at Ballarat ■ At Bray Raceway Ballarat on Wednesday, Parwan trainer/driver Jodi Quinlan's Mach Three/Paige Nicole Q filly Getya Wings Out was a big winner of the 9th Heat of the Bettors Delight Breeders Crown Series 15 for Three Year Old Fillies over 2200 metres. Starting from inside the second row, Getya Wings Out was immediately taken away from the marker line as the start was effected, settling at the rear of the field with only Lierre Noir behind her. Appearing to have a huge job ahead of her in the final circuit when still a long way off the leader Rogers Joy, Getya Wings Out despite being five wide on the home turn, rattled home to gain a 1.7 metre victory over Lierre Noir which followed her home in a rate of 1-59.9, with Rogers Joy a head away in third place. It was Getya Wings Out's 10th victory in 21 outings. ■ There will be no column next week as I will be away on a short break
TWO WINS IN A ROW
■ Longlea trainer Paul Morrissey's 7-Y-0 Sundon/Waikare Gold gelding Waikare Sun brought up two wins in a row when successful in the Bendigi Beer Oktoberfest - Book Now Trotters Mobile for T1 & T2 class over 2150 metres at Lord's Raceway Bendigo on Tuesday July 23. Driven by Dunnstown based David Murphy, Waikare Sun enjoyed a perfect passage one/one from gate four and finished his race off well to score from Marita Louise Ok off a three wide trail which followed the winner most of the way, with Ships Spur (four back the markers) third. The mile rate 202.9.
Exploded ■ Flora Hill trainer Dylan Marshall combined with Nathan Jack to land the Bendigo Advertiser 3-Y-0 Pace over 2150 metres with Art Major/Oh Please gelding The Majority. A winner at the Shepparton fixture on July 7, The Majority exploded away from gate five to lead with ease and rated a treat, kicked clear on straightening to register a 5.7 metre victory over Reign Of Pain (one/two - three wide last lap) and Striding Success (three back the markers) in a slick 2-00.3.
Overdue ■ Nanneella trainer Col Godden's 5-Y-0 Jet Laag/Computerize gelding Lights And Music scored a well overdue victory in the Bendigo Bank Pace for C1 class over 1650 metres. Taking a concession for Caroline Springs junior Rhys Nicholson, Lights And Music wasn't bustled from gate two, allowing Mister Bellisimo inside him to take control. Settling three back in the running line, Nicholson eased Lights And Music three wide in the final circuit, gradually creeping forward without using too much energy. Asked to improve approaching the home turn, Lights And Music dashed to the front on straightening, holding a 4.3 metre margin on the wire, accounting for Secret Ruby off a three wide trail last lap after following the winner home, with Abstraction using the sprint lane for third after trailing the pacemaker. The mile rate 1-58.6.
At his peak ■ Strathfieldsaye's Team
Baker’s Delight
Harness Racing
This Week’s Meetings ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Melbourne
Observer
len-baker@ bigpond.com
with Len Baker
Douglas have Courage Under Fire/Realy Dry gelding Realy Under Fire racing at his peak and brought up victory number four (all this season) by taking the Petstock Animal Supplies Pace for C2 & C3 class over 2150 metres in a rate of 2-00.6. Leading out from the pole, Daryl elected to hand over the front running to the well supported Kazaree from gate three, allowing Realy Under Fire to enjoy the run of the race. Using the sprint lane to perfection, Realy Under Fire won as he pleased from Kazaree and Charlotte Two which followed the pair.
It’s Lies ■ Rochester trainer Mark Thompson's highly promising Total Truth/Karamea Toastime filly Lies chalked up her second victory in four outings by taking the Doreen Anderson 2-Y-0 Pace over 1609 metres at Charlton on Wednesday. With stable reinsperson Ellen Tormey in the sulky, Lies raced by Mark and Sue Thompson settled three back in the running line after starting solo on the second row, with the polemarker Ferocious Son leading. Moving forward three wide in the last lap, Lies ran home stylishly to defeat Blacker Than Black which raced in the open from the bell before leading on the final bend, with Just Call Me Mac (one/ one) third. The mile rate 159.4.
Honest run ■ Bridgewater trainer/ driver Peter Rothacker's very honest 9-Y-O Classic Adam/Sues Shadow gelding Gazoline a former Boort Trotting Cup winner snared the Charlton & District Community Bank Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2100 metres at Charlton.
Dropping back significantly in grade after being winless in a number of runs since February, Gazoline began safely from the 20 metre mark to press forward and take the lead away from Earlee Bonus, but not before spending a fair amount of fuel. Given a breather through the middle stages, Gazoline had to speed up in the last lap when Anthony Crossland sent the favourite Im Demimondaine from last with a rush to issue a serious challenge. Giving plenty of turning, Gazoline defied the challenge to score a game neck victory over the favourite, with Sans Frontiere (one/two - three wide last lap) third. Raced by Peter and wife Dianne, Gazoline has greeted the judge on 11 occasions from 120 outings.
Bookends ■ Ellen Tormey landed the "bookends" at the Charlton program after winning the Vicbred Platinum Country Series B (1st Heat) for Three Year Olds over 1609 metres aboard the Paul Tonkin (Junortoun) trained Union Guy/Ally Who gelding Across The Way in a rate of 2-01.7. Despite facing the open from outside the front row for the entire journey, Across The Way joined the hot favourite Carbon Cate on straightening, before drawing away over the concluding stages to score by 5.8 metres, with Live By The Sword third from three back the markers. Victorious at Bendigo on July 13 paying Supertab odds of $22.60, Across The Way on this occasion returned a massive dividend of $55.50. ■ Listen to Len Baker on Harness Review, 8pm-10pm Mondays, on 97.9 FM, streamed in 979fm.com.au
Wednesday - Horsham/Shepparton, Thursday - Geelong/Kilmore, Friday - Mildura/Melton, Saturday - Bendigo, Sunday - Cranbourne, Monday - Charlton, Tuesday - Echuca.
Horses To Follow ■ Dynamite Dude, Im Havinaball, Reward For Effort, Life Of Ted, Theywannacallmesue, Ruben Hall, Bellasario, Secret Kiss, Whos That Guy.
Hat-trick produced ■ Parwan neighbour Jaime Madruga has 6-YO Cr Commando/Our Cullenize gelding Military Precision airborne at present, bring up a hattrick of wins by taking the Western Hotel Trotters Handicap for T3 or better class over 2200 metres in a rate of 2-03.5. Once again taking a concession for Long Forest based Alex Ashwood, Military Precision stepped cleanly from the 10-metre mark to possie four back along the markers, before being sent forward to park outside the pacemaker Adams Crown after Cameos Moment had tried unsuccessfully to assume control. Dictating the terms to perfection, Military Precision was much too strong over the concluding stages for Cameos Moment, with Theywannacallmesue (one/three - three wide last lap) an eye catching third.
Made amends for race ■ Very smart Majestic Son/Shadows colt Im Stately made amends for a close second to Kiwi raider Daenerys Targaryen in The Redwood at Maryborough eight days earlier, by taking the $10,000 Maori Legend at Stawell on Monday July 22. Trained and driven by Euroa's David Jack who also holds a share of him, Im Stately making his ninth appearance at the races was given plenty of time to balance after starting solo from the second line in the feature event being held as a mobile start for the first time since its inception, settling at the tail of the field. Gradually making ground mid-race to be poised one/one following Asdenro with David Aiken's Bad Habbott a former Kiwi leading from gate four, Jack waited patiently until approaching the final bend, when Im Stately was eased three wide to give chase to the leader who after being driven brilliantly by Daryl Douglas, tried to gain a break on the hot favourite. Moving on terms halfway up the running, Im Stately's quality told over the concluding stages as he drew away to record a 5.9 metre victory over Bad Habbott in a rate of 2-07 (last half 60.3 - quarter 29.9), with Kapitan Claire running home late from four back the markers to finish third a further 8.5 metres back.
Used sprint lane for 3rd
■ Seven year old Artiscape/Eileen Monica gelding Artoc is presently racing in career best form and brought up a hat-trick of wins when greeting the judge in the Norton Ford Pace for C2 & C3 class over 1780 metres at Stawell when making his 107th race appearance. Driven by Daryl Douglas for part-owner/trainer Danny Mullan from Melton, Artoc starting from the extreme draw settled four back in the moving line, with the heavily supported Narree Belle from the in-form Ross Sugars barn leading easily from the pole. Commencing a forward move three wide uncovered racing for the bell, Artoc was left on a limb for the remainder of the journey, with Narree Belle appearing to have the race in her keeping at the straight entrance as Greg Sugars went for home. Under vigorous driving in the straight, Artoc responded to nab Narree Belle in the shadows of the post to record a 1.3 metre victory in a mile rate of 200.6, with Lucky Dave (three back the markers) using the sprint lane for third.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - Page 107
Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 102
Top 10 Lists
HELPING HAND FOR JOCKEYS ■ We all know that horse racing is a great industry to be a part of, but what about the little blokes on top who do all the steering, winning and losing. It is an exciting time for a young apprentice starting off, while some of the senior jockeys have tasted great success, many haven't. For the jockeys who hit the track every day, it's a dangerous line of work. Especially when you consider the average jockey can weigh between, say, 47 kilos for apprentices, up to something like 68 kilos for the jumping jocks, and they are trying to keep the average horse of 450 to 500 kilos under restraint, angle him or her in the run, then ride them right out to the finish. It's a pretty big job. In 200 years of organised racing in Australia, 308 jockeys have died in racing accidents. Over the next decade we can expect another 12 to 15 to die on the job. A survey of members of the Australian Jockeys’ Association, a large majority earn less than $40,000 per year, and a lot of them are trying to ride seven days a week to make it. Few are able to pay for their own medical needs and care in the event of a career-ending accident. Two such jockeys that come immediately to mind are Oaks winning jockey, David Taggart, and autumn leaves himself, Peter Hutchinson. Here is a snapshot what has happened. There are currently, 860 professional jockeys in Australia, including apprentices. A survey of AJA members found that. ■ 89 per cent have suffered at least one fall during their career that has required medical attention ■ 9 per cent have fallen more than 20 times. ■ 55 per cent have no private health insurance. ■ 39 per cent have suffered depression. The AJA has recently helped in other areas. ■ A jockey who sustained a serious heart condition due to a fall. This injury was ca-
Ted Ryan
PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES [1987/ Comedy/John Candy, Steve Martin]. THE USUAL SUSPECTS [1995/Thriller/Gabriel Byrne, Kevin Spacey]. GIGOT [1962/Comedy/Jackie Gleason/Katherine Kath]. BLOOD AND SAND [1941/Drama/Tyrone Power, Rita Hayworth]. A PASSAGE TO INDIA [1985/Judy Davis, Peggy Ashcroft]. NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: STAR TREK ENTERPRISE: Seasons 1-4. STAR TREK: The Original Series 1-3. THE RIVALS OF SHERLOCK HOLMES: The Complete Collection. AMERICA'S LOST TREASURES: Season One. ROBBIE WILLIAMS: Live at Knebworth - 10th Anniversary Edition. DEADLIEST CATCH SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST. ONE NIGHT ONLY: The BeeGees.
reer ending as the jockey was unable to obtain a medical clearance to ride again. ■ A jockey who sustained permanent brain damage injured in a fall at Wagga. ■ A jockey involved in a barrier trial fall at Hawkesbury, suffered a traumatic brain injury. ■ Paid funeral expenses for a jockey who died as a result of severe head injuries sustained in a race fall in Adelaide. ■ These are just a few of the incidents than can happen, so have a thought next time for the little bloke or girl aboard next time you have a bet; it's not all beer and skittles, you know.
Happy days ■ I am proud to say that I was lucky enough to finish third in the VRC Media Tipping Competition, on meetings conducted at Flemington throughout the 2012-2013 season with the exception of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. The winner was the consistent Mark Esler, winning with 65 winners from Keith Hillier on 62, then yours truly for the Melbourne Observer on 58. The last day at Flemington on July 21 was marred by heavy rain, and a track that went from a good 3 to a Dead 4 and then a slow 7, finishing up as a Heavy 8, just two off the top reading. This put pay to a number of fancied run-
ners, with the highest scorer on the last day being Dean Lester from RSN, with three. Mark got one, while Keith and I, failed to register a winner like the majority. In fourth spot, three behind me, was young Matthew Jackson, who assists course commentator, Greg Miles; he ended up with 55, picking up a winner on the final day. All up 38 tipsters joined in the proceedings, from all facets press radio, TV and cyberspace. Marcus Williams, the Promotions Manager, said that the VRC would continue with the tipping competition for the racing media at Flemington meetings for the current season starting tomorrow (Aug. 1), with the exception of the Cup Carnival, due to all the commitments that the media are under at that time. The winner re-
● Tom Sadler Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754
● Exceed And Excel Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 If you lucky enough ceives, $2,000; second $1,000; and third takes to pick the card all win- ■ News that chamners on a program, you home $ 500. pion Mare, Black take home $ 1000. I can tell you no- Caviar, would be with Exceed one has been success- mated and Excel, was met ful so far. with mixed reactions. It's open to all fiEarlier in the piece nancial members of the Vinery Stud sire, the Victorian Racing More Than Ready, was odds on to be the Media. You select three first to join Black horses in each race Caviar, with Exceed with only the winner and Excel, and Choice counting for one point. Redoute's in line. You pick one of your nextBut the owners have selections as your best decided on the brilliant bet on the day worth Exceed and Excel, three points in total. who is about to win the If your first prefer- Australian Sire's ence is scratched it Championship after switches to your sec- a stellar season. Owners of Black ond selection or third if Caviar will part with that comes out also. the stud fee The Racing Me- $88,000, for the son of Danedia is grateful to hill. All progeny proMarcus and the VRC duced by Black allowing the members Caviar will be kept by ● Jackie Beriman to have a go at picking the original owners and Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754 some handy ‘brass’. race in their names.
Sire pick
TOP BLU-RAY RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. A GOOD DAY TO DIE HARD [Action/Thriller/ Bruce Willis, Jai Courtney, Sebastian Koch]. 2. THE HOST [Sci-Fi/Diane Kruger, Saoirse Ronan, William Hurt]. 3. ZERO DARK THIRTY [Drama/Thriller/Jessica Chastain, James Gandolfini]. 4. JACK THE GIANT SLAYER 3D + Blu-Ray [Action/Adventure/Ewan McGregor, Stanley Tucci]. 5 OZ: THE GREAT AND POWERFUL 3D + BluRay [Fantasy/Adventure/James Franco]. 6. EVIL DEAD (2013) [R18+Horror/Jane Levy, Jessica Lucas]. 7. PARKER [Action/Jason Statham, Jennifer Lopez]. 8. THE INCREDIBLE BURT WONDERSTONE [Comedy/Jim Carrey, Steve Carrell]. 9. CLOUD ATLAS [Drama/Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Hugh Grant, Jim Broadbent]. 10. FLIGHT [Drama/Denzel Washington, Bruce Greenwood, Kelly Reilly]. Also: Tower Block, Silver Linings Playbook, Django Unchained, The Last Stand, Broken City, Lincoln, Paranorman 3D + 2D, The Paperboy, Great Expectations, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: BULLET TO THE HEAD [Action/Sylvester Stallone, Sarah Shahi]. ESCAPE FROM PLANET EARTH [Animated/Adventure/Brendan Fraser, Ricky Gervais]. ESCAPE FROM PLANET EARTH 3D + Blu-Ray [Animated/Brendan Fraser, Ricky Gervais]. DRESSED TO KILL [R18+/1980/Thriller/mystery/Michael Caine, Nancy Allen, Angie Dickinson]. PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES [1987/ Comedy/John Candy, Steve Martin]. THE USUAL SUSPECTS [1995/Thriller/Gabriel Byrne, Kevin Spacey]. ROBBIE WILLIAMS: Live at Knebworth - 10th Anniversary Edition. ONE NIGHT ONLY: The BeeGees. - James Sherlock
More Sulky Snippets ■ The Western District was well represented at the Stawell fixture, with Scotts Creek trainer Anthony O'Connor's 4-Y-0 Grinfromeartoear/ Sokoto mare Roman Abbey scoring in the Hygain Feeds Pace for C0 class over 1780 metres. Driven by Matt Craven, Roman Abbey was sent forward from gate five to assume control and was never headed, accounting for Kurraca Knight which trailed, using the sprint lane to no avail, with Chesney (three wide last lap outside the winner on the home turn) third. The mile rate 2-01.4. ■ Armstrong trainer Brooke Hansen does a great job with her team and landed the Stawell Times News 3-Y-0 Pace over 1780 metres with Blissful Hall/Art For Art Sake gelding Big Gorilla in a rate of 1-59.5. Driven by Neil McCallum, Big Gorilla which showed plenty of potential when first taken to the races in his juvenile year, led throughout to win by a 17.4 metre margin in advance of Pink Diamond Lombo which switched down to the sprint lane on straightening after being one/one at the bell, with Whos That Guy third after following the winner. - Len Baker
Page 108 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - Page 109
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Melbourne
Observer Victorian Sport
WHICH ABLETT IS THE BETTER?
■ There are two subjects on which I should make comment. First, the Ablett father and son debate as to who is the best. This is a fantastic media PR promotion. Truly there is NO definitive answer because of different eras, styles, body builds and most of all the way the game is, was played. Take a poll, in fairness it should come out even. I’ve seen them both. From an umpire’s and commentator’s view they were, are sensational. Their playing efforts are so sublime, ‘super-duper’ they have stamped our game as the most exciting sport in the world. ★ Secondly, the ASADA saga which the Melbourne media has been determined to keep on the ‘front’ burner no matter what damage it does to our game, our players and sporting image. ( It saw the resignation of Essendon chairman David Evans at the weekend). The ASADA investigation should have been settled by now with decisions and sanctions. If clubs or players are found guilty, take action. My view is clear-cut. This whole matter has been turned into a “political football” by prejudice parties from Government level, media and now our AFL clubs especially Essendon. Some Melbourne media are determined to break lifetime friendships such as the Essendon’s Evans and Hird families and their supporter groups. It also extends to relentless attacks on the AFL and in particular Andrew Demetriou who must have done some things right to be acclaimed the nation’s biggest and best sporting organisation. “Is there anyone out there” who can shower praise instead of bile? To the AFL, Andrew D, Essendon’s David Evans and James Hird: “stick fat” – now is the testing time of loyalty and trust – not ‘poison pens’.
AFL loses Sue Clark ■ The AFL wishes to advises that its Cultural Strategy and Education Manager Sue Clark has resigned from her rule to undertake further education. AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou said he was extremely disappointed to lose Ms Clark’s services after a leading role in the industry over the past five years. In addition to her leadership role in developing and delivering education programs for AFL clubs including players, staff, coaches and board members, Sue also played an important role in investigations concerning the off-field behaviour of individuals at AFL and community level and to protect the integrity of the game, he said. Under Sue’s leadership, the Cultural Strategy and Education Unit also developed a strategy for the AFL’s position on social inclusion which included amendments to the AFL’s vilification policy and development of a mental health policy for the AFL industry. This also included working with the AFL Players’Association to review the various education programs delivered to AFL players while also managing the development and implementation of education programs around major AFL policies including: ■ Respect and responsibility
Harry Beitzel www.squidoo.com/harrybeitzel ■ Racial and Religious Vilification ■ Responsible use of alcohol “The AFL first had contact with Sue in 2004 when she was a senior officer with Victoria Police and a member of Victoria’s Statewide Steering Committee to Reduce Sexual Assault,” Mr Demetriou said. “Sue played a leading role as a member of the advisory group to develop the AFL’s Respect and Responsibility Policy, which was introduced in 2005 to create a safe and inclusive environment for women at all levels of Australian football. “We were delighted she joined us full time in 2008 to manage our Respect and Responsibility Program, with a particular emphasis on expanding the program to community based clubs and leagues throughout Australia. “Sue has always acted very professionally and with great integrity and we wish her every success in the next phase of her career now that she has decided to pursue further education in her career development.” From 2009, Sue was appointed to the role of Cultural Strategy and Education Manager and from October last year to July this year, she also served as Acting General Manager, Human Resources. The management of the AFL Respect and Responsibility program will now come to Dorothy Hisgrove, AFL General Manager People, Customer and Community.
Alan Toovey signs new deal ■ Collingwood confirms it has resigned defender Alan Toovey to a new three-year contract. Demonstrating its faith in the 2010 premiership player, Toovey’s deal will see him remain with the black-andwhites until the end of the 2016 AFL season, placing the West Australian on track to become a 10-year clubman. Drafted to Collingwood’s rookie list in 2005, Toovey’s transformation from fringe player to defensive pillar has seen him emerge as one of the Magpies’ most valuable players, receiving the ultimate plaudit from coach Nathan Buckley, who described the 26-year old as irreplaceable. Toovey has played 114 senior games across eight seasons, including three AFL Grand Finals. Having been sidelined since round five after suffering a season ending
knee injury, the extent of Toovey’s influence has become apparent in his absence. Speaking to Fox Footy’s The Club, Toovey said it was reassuring to be able to secure his long-term future with the Magpies. “It was a big relief to get the contract done. It’s a weight off my shoulders and I’m looking forward to playing another three years with the club,” Toovey said. “We were part of the way through my negotiations when I did my knee. Thankfully when I was back at the club, Walshy (football director, Geoff Walsh) came up to me and said that the club hadn’t changed its position with the contract. They were confident I would get through the rehab and be up and ready next year. “I love playing at Collingwood so I’ve always wanted to stay here. The club has been pretty good to me and it is a great place to play footy. This contract will take me to 11 years here, so hopefully I can get a couple more at the end of that and stay a one-club player.”
$399 for best Grand Final tix ■ The AFL jas announced prices for the 2013 finals series, with its objectives “based around accessability and affordability, coupled with a strong financial return that will benefit all clubs in the competition and the long-term health of the game”. AFL General Manager Commercial Operations Darren Birch said the AFL would increase the number of seating price categories for matches at the MCG to a range of seven price categories to more truly reflect the seating positions, provide further pricing options and to maintain affordability for supporters. In all markets, top tier seating prices in weeks one and two will remain unchanged at $85 for the MCG, ANZ
Stadium and Patersons Stadium and $80 for AAMI Stadium. At the MCG with the new price category spread, entry level seating prices will be lowered by 13 per cent across weeks one and two to $40, coming down from $46. Average price rises across the categories of Grand Final seating will increase by one per cent, with the largest increase in Grand Final seating to the top tier of pricing ($390 up two per cent to $399). Mr Birch said the AFL would also retain a level of flexibility within the seating categories, to reflect individual demand for particular games. "Our finals matches are the showpiece games of our season and we aim to ensure that there is a level of ticket pricing through the finals that can be accessed by all fans,” Mr Birch said. “At this point of the 2013 season, total attendances are tracking ahead of expectations at 4,643,010, and we are looking forward to an outstanding finals series. “When judged against any other major event in Australia, we believe the AFL grand final, for its significance in this country, remains outstanding value while our full final series consistently delivers great matches across weeks one to three and our games are regularly judged among the great sporting contests across the world," Mr Birch said. Mr Birch said the AFL had sought to keep any price increases as low as possible, particularly with the introduction of new categories of lower-priced seating, to ensure that all fans had the opportunity to attend as many matches as possible during the finals series, while recognising that the AFL Grand Final was the major event of the AFL season. The AFL’s work around the 2013 finals prices was signed off by the AFL Commission at its meeting in Melbourne last month, and followed a number of key changes that have been implemented across 2011 and 2012 to ensure that finals matches remain accessible for all fans. As a new offering to reward club members, a discount will be offered to members who have already attended a game in week one of the finals. Members who purchase a ticket to see their club play in week one will be offered a 20 per cent discount to purchase a ticket in week two if their club is competing. “The AFL is extremely conscious of the financial demands on supporters in the current economy, knowing that they also want to be part of their club’s drive to a possible premiership,” Mr Birch said. “In the last two years across 2011 and 2012, the AFL maintained low price levels at standard / bronze ticket categories with the move to lower week two prices and bring them in line with week one ticketing costs, while also reducing corporate ticketing allocations for the Grand Final by 5000 and returning those tickets to sale for members of the competing clubs,” he said
Umps need to improve game ■ I have promised to give my views on what I consider umpires should do to improve their performance and to make “our great game even greater”. It is a big task. It forced me to do a great deal more research because I dis-
ROUND 19 Friday, August 2 North Melbourne vs. Geelong Cats (ES) (N) Saturday, August 3 GWS GIANTS vs. Melbourne (SK) Hawthorn vs. Richmond (MCG) West Coast Eagles vs. Gold Coast Suns(PS) (T) Carlton vs. Fremantle (ES) (N) Brisbane Lions vs. St Kilda (G) (N) Sunday, August 4 Western Bulldogs vs. Sydney Swans (ES) (E) Adelaide Crows vs. Port Adelaide (AS) Collingwood vs. Essendon (MCG) (T)
covered we (AFL – that’s you and I and everybody involved in our game from ‘grassroots to the top’) have a mammoth problem. We need 19,000 umpires each weekend nationally to control our games from juniors to seniors. We are 11,000 short! I’ve decided to dedicate my columns to helping to encourage more ex-players, parents to jump into the breach and give it a go! I must first develop a plan. It must be exciting and motivating. It will be different! It should be ready for the initial instalment over coming weeks. The AFL, much to my surprise, already has in place several programs to encourage the recruitment of umpires. I need to study them and work with the AFL people
Key AFL dates
■ Thursday, August 1 by 2pm Draft Eligible Academy Player Nominations Lodged. ■ Monday, September 30 Gillette AFL Restricted Free Agency Offer and Unrestricted Free Agency Period Commences. ■ Friday, October 4 by 2pm Gillette AFL Father-Son Bidding Nominations;Academy Bidding Nominations lodged with AFL. ■ Monday, October 7 10am - Father/Son & Academy Players Bidding Meeting; Gillette AFL Trade Period Commences. ■ Friday, October 18 at 5pm Close of Gillette AFL Restricted Free Agency Offer and Unrestricted Free Agency Period. ■ Monday, October 21 - Gillette AFL Restricted Free Agency Matching Offer Three-Day Period Ends ■ Friday, October 25 at 2pm Gillette AFL Trade Period Closes. ■ Thursday, October 31 by 2pm List Lodgement (1); Rookie Promotion to Primary List; Retained 2nd & 3rd Year Rookies; Scholarship Players; Alternate Talent Player Nominations. ■ Friday, November 1 - Gillette AFL Delisted Player Free Agency Period (1) Commences. ■ Wednesday, November 13 Gillette AFL Delisted Player Free Agency Period (1) Closes; Out of Contract Listed AFL Primary List Players Draft Nomination Form and Player Request for Removal from List Form Lodged with AFL; New or Expired (after 3 years) Draft Nomination Form Lodgement; Nomination ofActivation of Compensatory Selections held by Clubs as determined in 2012 only under the GWS Giants List Establishment Rules.
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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 31, 2013 - Page 111
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