Prodijee #13

e e j i d pro Issue #13 2013

contents 80

46 When Worlds Collide

We hit the red carpet with the stars of Elysium at the Australian premiere in Sydney.

56 Canine Couture

Spring’s new fashion is here, but this year you may be upstaged by your dog!

62 Prince Pizza

It’s official... John Lanzafame makes the world’s best pizza, bar none!

68 Flying High

Veteran Aussie muso, Diesel (aka Mark Lizzotte), has still got it, as his new album proves.

68

80 Deadly Ambition

Singer, songwriter and TV presenter Naomi Wenitong tells how she overcame rascism, sexism and a near fatal car crash.

94 Hurrah for Mardi Gras We hit New Orleans for America’s biggest and wildest street party.

102 Another Curtis Classic

Known for his many romantic comedies, Richard Curtis has again produced another classic movie with the recently released, About Time.

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94

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56 REGULARS

NEWS

62

4 What’s Goin’ On 20 Going Postal 22 What’s hot ROAD TESTS 52 Nikon Coolpix S6500 77 Hawthorn Brewery ales 94 On The Record

102

COLUMNS 42 Live Via Satellite 50 The Peripheral Stranieri 60 Viva Las Vegas 66 Reality Bites 80 The French Facialist 88 London Calling 92 La-la land 100 Food Couture

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n o ’ n i o g ’s t a h w ALL GIRL GROUP, and stars of the blockbuster movie, The Sapphires, will be presented with Support Act’s annual charity award in recognition of their invaluable work in the Indigenous community on at the Music in the House luncheon on Friday, 11 October, 2013, at Australia’s NSW Parliament House.

The focus of Music In The House is to honour members of the music industry who, by their tireless efforts and charitable works, have enriched the fabric of the broader Australian community. Previous recipients of the award have been Jimmy Barnes, Glenn Shorrock, Don Spencer, Richard Clapton, John Paul Young, Russell Morris and John Butler.

The Sapphires star, Jessica Mauboy, will perform at the event in what is expected to be a spellbinding and intimate performance in honour of the original members of The Sapphires, who will also be attending the luncheon.

The Sapphires feature film was inspired by a true story of these four extraordinary Aboriginal women, sisters Laurel Robinson, Lois Peeler and their cousins Beverley Briggs and Dr. Naomi Mayers. Yorta Yorta women born along the Murray River, were part of an extended family of brothers and sisters who regularly sang together during the 1960s and 70s. Sisters Laurel and Lois toured Vietnam in the late 1960s singing to the American troops, which was an extraordinary achievement for two young Aboriginal women.

Life after The Sapphires has been an even richer experience – Dr. Naomi Mayers has held the office of Chief Executive Officer of the Aboriginal Medical Service for 30 years with Beverly Briggs and Laurel WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

Robinson tirelessly working by her side striving to improve the health of the Aboriginal community (Naomi received an Order of Australia Medal in 1984). Following a stint as Australia’s first Aboriginal model, Lois Peeler went on to become the Executive Director of Worawa Aboriginal College, a secondary education facility for young Aboriginal Women. Lois is also the former head of Aboriginal Tourism Australia.

As a performer, Jessica Mauboy continues to impress audiences with her acting and singing. Jessica played the role of Julie in The Sapphires movie, which earned her an ACCTA Award for Best Supporting Actress and an AFCA Award for the same category. Jess also represents a key role model to the indigenous community for Australia as seen in her involvements across their organizations that include mentoring, performing and

education. “I’m so happy to see The Sapphires being recognised by Support Act for all that they’ve done over years to support the indigenous community,” said Jessica. “They are true role models for our community and I can’t wait to see them at the lunch and congratulate them in person” Support Act is Australia’s unique music charity supporting music professionals in crisis.

“Music in the House is always special but this year promises to be extraordinary: if you are in the audience, expect to be moved by Jessica Mauboy’s performance; impressed by learning what The Sapphires did next and inspired by the difference Support Act is making to peoples’ lives,” said Joanna Cave, CEO of Support Act. Bookings can be made online at www.trybooking.com/59552 or download the booking form from www.supportact.com/events

ADALITA WILL RELEASE her second solo album, All Day Venus, on September 20. Recorded with renowned producer Lindsay Gravina at Birdland Studios in Melbourne, All Day Venus is the follow up to Adalita’s acclaimed self-titled LP. Borne from periods of intense creativity and personal reflection, the 12 songs on the album are dark, brooding and unflinchingly honest, bursting with energy and physicality.

This is an album aimed equally at the head, heart, hips and feet.

The first glimpse of the new LP was revealed at the beginning of July, with the release of the title track.

With its eloquent and insightful lyrics and exhilarating, reverb-soaked guitars, All Day Venus proclaimed the return of one of our most lauded and loved local artists.

Adalita has now revealed the

first official single from the album, Warm Like You. Forged from a heavy, detuned guitar progression, Warm Like You is loud, powerful and dynamic, with an almost orchestral swoon underpinning the track’s driving glam stomp.

“I cannot tell you all how super excited I am about this new album.

It’s been two years in the making and an enormous amount of energy has gone into it,” said Adalita.

“This record is really about so many things but mainly I think it’s about growing up. I think I came to a point as an adult where I realised a lot of new things about myself mainly through the transformative nature of romantic love gone wrong.

In tandem with this theme I was also very drawn to beautiful images of the female form, flowers, fountains and waterways presided over by

a female figure, sometimes young and innocent, sometimes a dark, powerful huntress. For me this relates to the mystery of the feminine and the sacred nature of beauty.”

Two years ago, Adalita impressed with the release of her self-titled solo debut. A stripped back, stark and emotive affair, she won the coveted AIR Award that year for Best Independent Album.

THE FUTURE OF contemporary Australian circus will be on show at Circus Showcase 2013, presented at the National Institute of Circus Arts in Prahran from November 27 to December 7.

The shows will feature the country’s finest up-and-coming

circus stars, with the cast comprising of 23 final year students who are about to graduate from Australia’s only Bachelor of Circus Arts.

The show is co-directed by NICA’s Head of Performance, Megan Jones, and NICA’s Head of Movement, Meredith Kitchen. Megan has a formidable 30 year career as an actor, director and performing arts educator. Meredith started teaching at NICA after a dance career with the Australian Dance Theatre, Dance North and France’s Compagnie Philippe Genty.

“The show features signature solo and duo acts that range from the exquisitely beautiful and charming, to the heart-stopping and hilarious, interwoven into an entertaining variety of high-level contemporary circus, performance and dance,” said Jones.

NICA’s artists test the limits of physical strength and endurance and present jaw-dropping feats of

sublime beauty, with a wide range of circus apparatus including tightwire, cloudswing, hula hoops, vertical rope, juggling, adagio, roué cyr, swinging trapeze, Chinese pole, clowning, hand balancing, roman rings, aerial hoop, swinging pole and tissu.

NICA is Australia’s Centre of Excellence for training in contemporary circus arts. It is one of eight national arts training institutes and offers Australia’s only Bachelor of Circus Arts.

Graduates of NICA have gone on to pursue exciting careers both locally and internationally, as well as contributing to the development of Melbourne’s vibrant circus arts industry. The course is accredited by Swinburne University of Technology and attracts applicants from across Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific, USA and South America.

Tickets for Circus Showcase 2013 are on sale now at www.nica.com.au WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

WALDORF ASTORIA HOTELS & Resorts has launched a global social media campaign with short films series to inspire unforgettable moments in travel.

Filmed in Chicago, Rome, Berlin and Shanghai, the cinematic, documentary-style series of Unforgettable Stories features cultural tastemakers and notable figures who have played a role in shaping Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts’ unique and inspirational environments. Subjects include chefs, fashion designers and even the Berlin Zoo Biologist, who leads the Waldorf Astoria Berlin’s exclusive after-hours tour of the zoo.

The inaugural video stars world-renowned Chef Heinz Beck (pictured), who takes viewers on a virtual tour of one of Rome’s bustling farmers markets, shares the chef’s philosophies on food culture and divulges the secrets behind his three Michelin-starred restaurant, La Pergola, at Rome Cavalieri.

“Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts around the world offer guests the opportunity to create unforgettable WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

memories through original programming and personalized service,” said John T A Vanderslice, global head, luxury and lifestyle brands, Hilton Worldwide. “We are delighted to celebrate the individuals who are instrumental in defining and curating the bespoke experiences and inspirational environments at all of our properties worldwide.”

Other videos in the Unforgettable Stories pipeline include: a visit to the factory and atelier of Howard Harris, the artist behind the epic iron curtain sculpture in the Waldorf Astoria Chicago lobby; a glimpse into “gladiator school” at the legendary Rome Cavalieri, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts; and a primer on Chinese Traditional medicine offered at the elegant Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund.

Additional tastemakers featured in Unforgettable Stories include: art historian and curator, Alessandra Massini; the legendary, Michelinstarred Chef Pierre Gagnaire from Waldorf Astoria Berlin; Tom Hogan, Mixologist at Bernard’s bar at Waldorf Astoria Chicago; and

Lisa Simeone and Gina Deary of Simeone Deary Design Group.

The Unforgettable Stories documentaries are hosted on the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts Facebook page and can be accessed through a custom built Facebook app unique to Unforgettable Stories at www.facebook.com/WaldorfAstoria. www.waldorfastoria.com

SUPERMODEL JESSICA GOMES has joined the Volvo Cars Ambassador stable.

Gomes was welcomed at an exclusive Volvo Ambassador lunch held at Glass, Sydney, where she joined fellow ambassadors, Richard

Wilkins, chef Luke Mangan, Wallaby rugby players James O’Connor and Tatafu-Polota-Nau, former Wallaby captain Rocky Elsom, FoxSport’s Matt Shirvington, and designer Matt Jensen, who owns MJ Bale.

“We’re very pleased to welcome

Jessica to the Volvo brand,” said Matt Braid, Volvo Car Australia managing director. “Jess was able to join us at the launch of the AllNew Volvo V40 back in March and saw first-hand where Volvo is heading – so we’re delighted she’s able to attend our inaugural Volvo Ambassador lunch, too.

“Volvo is at an incredibly exciting chapter of our growth here in Australia, not least with the announcement we’re going V8 Supercar racing in 2014, and the raft of new product launches that are coming through. To be able to share these exciting developments with our loyal and proactive Ambassador stable is fantastic.”

Perth-born Gomes, 27, who is also the new David Jones ambassador, is a force in the global fashion world, having done campaigns for Gap, DKNY Denim and Clinique, in addition to appearing in every Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition since 2008.

WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT has expanded its creative partnership with worldrenowned, best-selling author J.K. Rowling. At the center of the partnership is a new film series from Rowling’s world of witches and wizards, inspired by Harry Potter’s Hogwarts textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and the

adventures of the book’s fictitious author, Newt Scamander. The announcement was made by Kevin Tsujihara, chief executive officer, Warner Bros. Entertainment.

“We are incredibly honored that Jo has chosen to partner with Warner Bros. on this exciting new exploration of the world of wizardry, which has been tremendously successful across all of our businesses,” said Tsujihara.

“She is an extraordinary writer, who ignited a reading revolution around the world, which then became an unprecedented film phenomenon.

We know that audiences will be as excited as we are to see what her brilliant and boundless imagination conjures up for us.”

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them will be an original story and will mark Rowling’s screenwriting debut. It is planned as the first picture in a new film series. Set in the wizarding world, the story will feature magical creatures and characters,

some of which will be familiar to devoted Harry Potter fans.

“Although it will be set in the worldwide community of witches and wizards where I was so happy for seventeen years, ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ is neither a prequel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series, but an extension of the wizarding world,” said Rowling.

“The laws and customs of the hidden magical society will be familiar to anyone who has read the Harry Potter books or seen the films, but Newt’s story will start in New York, seventy years before Harry’s gets underway.”

In addition to the film series, Fantastic Beasts will also be developed across the Studio’s video game, consumer products and digital initiatives businesses, including enhanced links with Pottermore.com, Rowling’s digital online experience built around the Harry Potter stories.

Jessica Gomes with fellow Volvo AmbassadorsLuke Mangan (left) and Matt Jensen.

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SYDNEY-BASED FASHION FOOTWEAR label, KeilanaSkye, is about to debut in New York.

Best known for it’s contemporary

‘feminine edge with comfort’ design, KeilanaSkye is presenting at one of the world’s most prestigious trade events, Sole

INTERNATIONAL MODELLING SENSATION, Helena Vestergaard, has joined Australian Grand Prix Corporation by winning the role of Ambassador for the 2013 Tissot Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix.

The artistic Melbourne model attended South Melbourne schools, Dance World Studios and Apo Arts Academy from just 14 years of age where she completed her Diploma in

musical theatre, acting, singing and dancing. As a model, Vestergaard’s signature tomboy style has seen her work with some of Australia’s top publications such as the Fashion Journal and Fashion Trend. Recently she has appeared in Japanese Vogue and American Teen Vogue.

Despite a background in theatre and her thriving modelling career, Vestergaard has always found time for her hobbies such as surfing and skateboarding, fuelling her passion for adrenaline-charged sports and making her the perfect fit for the world of MotoGP. “I’m a tomboy at heart, when I was younger people often thought I was a boy. I love any sport that pushes me out of my comfort zone.

I have huge respect for the riders and the extremes they go to while competing; the action is non-stop!” said Vestergaard. “Being chosen as the ambassador for the 2013 Tissot Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix is such an incredible opportunity

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Commerce, part of Coterie, New York.

Showing Spring/Summer 2014/15 collections, Sole Commerce is a three day event dedicated exclusively to upscale footwear and handbags.

KeilanaSkye is the only Australian fashion footwear label taking part in this prestigious event.

Designer and founder, Candy Maaka-Stoten, said, “I’m really excited about showcasing this collection. I’m really happy with it.

It’s definitely my best season yet.”

KeilanaSkye’s SS14/15 collection Awaken is described as a mainly trans-seasonal collection with Maaka-Stoten’s signature style of bold pop and colours, textured and custom prints with incredible detail.

Awaken will be officially launched in New York in September and released in Australia and New Zealand early next year.

and I feel so honoured to be able to represent Australia on the world stage – I’m really looking forward to getting my bike licence.”

No stranger to being on the back of a bike, Vestergaard can’t wait to experience the thrill of MotoGP as a pillion passenger with 5-time 500cc Motorcycle World Champion Mick Doohan’s Honda CBR1000RR Superbike.

Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, Andrew Westacott, is pleased to welcome Vestergaard to the team for the 2013 Tissot Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix.

“Helena is a fresh and exciting personality that embodies the thrilling new era of MotoGP. She will do a wonderful job representing Victoria and showcasing Phillip Island to a global audience,” said Westacott.

PHOTO: Styled by holystone/ Photographer Jennifer Stenglein

US FOOTBALL IS going femme as COVERGIRL teams up with the National Football League (NFL) to celebrate the League’s female fans.

So aside from the team jerseys, lucky hats, foam fingers and pompoms, women game-goers and watchers now have the chance to express their on-the-field allegiance like never before via official NFL COVERGIRL ‘fanicures’, inspired by all 32 NFL team logos and colors.

The 32 customized nailart designs are created with COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss shades and starting today, women can access the team-inspired fanicure looks and inspiration at Covergirl.com/NFL. Now, women can let their fingers do the talking by creating their own fanicures with COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant nail polish available online and at retailers nationwide.

“If you’ve ever tailgated or been to an NFL game, you understand the passion and emotion that goes into being a fan – it’s not just about the competition on the field on game day, but also the rivalries in the stands, at home, with friends or even around the office water cooler,” said Esi Eggleston Bracey, VP and general manager, COVERGIRL Cosmetics.

“As an iconic American brand, it made perfect sense for COVERGIRL to team up with the NFL in support of America’s favorite pastime, empowering women with a fun, new way to showcase their spirit. Being a fan can be a beautiful thing!”

In addition to the teamcustomized COVERGIRL fanicure looks, NFL fans also will have the opportunity to experience fanicures in action at select home games – inside the stadium at NFL Style Lounges and outside the stadium via COVERGIRL mobile manicure stations. The Lounges inside select stadiums will offer complimentary COVERGIRL fanicures featuring home team-inspired nail art using COVERGIRL nail polish.

Fans visiting the lounge will not only get to shop for the newest fan gear made just for women, but also will have opportunities to consult with a professional stylist, listen to music performed by an on-site DJ and strut their gameday glam style in a team-themed photo booth.

Fans also will receive instantreplay-worthy inspiration and getthe-look tutorials on a COVERGIRL NFL nail board on Pinterest.

COVERGIRL will also encourage fans with a competitive streak to upload their own team-inspired nail looks – going finger-to-finger with rival femmes to rally around their teams via sharing and liking their fellow team posts.

Making sure to get into all the game-day action, COVERGIRL will also be participating in the pre-game fanfare outside of NFL stadiums with nailgating activations.

Mobile manicure stations on-board the COVERGIRL bus will offer female fans the chance to rock an official NFL fanicure in support of either the home or away team.

“This unique collaboration will bring new meaning to wearing your team’s colors,” said Rhiannon Madden, the NFL’s Director of Apparel. “We are thrilled to be

teaming up with COVERGIRL to celebrate our female fans with another innovative way to combine their passions for football and style.”

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BW’S FOURTH NIGHT FREE When you stay at the Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel), the best of Beverly Hills is right on your doorstep. A stay at this iconic hotel is the perfect location to experience Californian-style luxury for two. BW’s Fourth Night Free gives you more time to take in the award-winning services and amenities. Offered: 15 Aug 2013 - 18 Dec 2013. www.fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire EAT A SHIP FULL The Royal Australian Navy’s International Fleet Review is happening in and around Sydney Harbour, from October 3 to 11 to commemorate 100 years since their first seven ships sailed into Sydney Harbour. Sixty tall ships and warships from 19 countries berthed in and around the harbour, for three days from October 4. Events will culminate on October 5, with a parade around the harbour and a huge fireworks and lights spectacular that evening. Fort Denison is right in the middle of the action and will hold a special lunch event on October 5. www.fortdenison.com.au BEST BARBIE COOK? Creators behind Australia’s newest TV show, set to launch in 2014, are on the hunt to unearth Australia’s finest, chargrill barbequing traditionalist to host the show. Aussies can enter their submission online at www.keepbbqreal.com.au Three finalists will compete in a cook-off showdown at Gold FM’s Brig and Lehmo’s Grand Final Breakfast on Friday 27 September. The show’s producers are calling for serious BBQers Australia wide to enter for their chance to present the show.

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IN NOVEMBER 2012, more than 265,000 motorsport fans experienced the world’s best drivers and fastest race cars at the new $400 million Circuit of The Americas premium sports and entertainment complex in Austin, Texas. On race Sunday, 117,429 people witnessed former Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton claim the top spot on the winners’ podium, making the return of Formula 1 to American soil after a 5-year hiatus one of the sporting events of the year.

Racing legend Mario Andretti, the only race car driver to be a Formula 1 World Champion and win the Indianapolis 500 and Daytona 500, is the Circuit’s official ambassador and was the first professional race car driver to take a full lap in an F1 car around the 20-turn, undulating racetrack in Central Texas prior to its opening in November 2012. He is in no doubt that 12 months on, this year’s event will be even better.

“Now that the COTA staff has had a year to operate in the new facility, I think you’ll see an even smoother operation when it comes to getting guests in and out of the venue, as well as the overall fan experience at the track,” said Mario. “They’re improving their transportation plan from last year which relied heavily on free shuttle buses - and they have identified new and closer parking areas to make the commute from downtown Austin faster. You’ll see more activities away from the track to entertain fans while they’re in Austin, including a bigger and better

Fan Festival in the downtown area, new music events, and food events featuring celebrity chefs and some world-class entertainers. All of the style and sophistication you see around the F1 races in Europe will be at the USGP, but with an authentic Texas feel, taste and sound. I can’t wait; it’s going to be a great party in Texas this November.”

The Circuit of The Americas is currently the sole F1 track in the United States, it is also the only US racetrack to host three World Championship auto racing series (Formula 1, MotoGP and World Endurance Championships) within one year’s time.

Given its location in the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’, it is very fitting that the Circuit of The Americas is also home to the Austin360 Amphitheater, an expansive outdoor live music space with room for 14,000 guests, featuring the largest permanent stage in Central Texas.

In 2013 alone, the amphitheater is hosting some of the biggest names in country and popular music, including Jimmy Buffett, Mumford & Sons, Kenny Chesney, Maroon 5, Dave Matthews Band, Keith Urban, The Lumineers and Train.

In addition to intimate concerts, the amphitheater and the Grand Plaza grounds that surround it are also designed to host multi-day music festivals, comedians, speakers, private rentals and sporting events. http://austin360amphitheater.com/ www.circuitoftheamericas.com

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MELBOURNE’S BEAUTIFUL COMO House and Gardens will play host to the extravagant festival from Friday November 22 to Sunday November 24. The gardens of Como House will be lined with white marquees of more than 70 French retailers and producers bursting with French-inspired food and wine, live music, homewares and fashion.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: MASTERCLASS: ICONS OF FRANCE Learn all about Armagnac, Cognac and Calvados: the area of production, distillation and ageing process. An exclusive masterclass where you will fall in love with their beauty. Take this opportunity to taste six unique, premier cru spirits. Book now, seats limited. Tickets - $40.00 per person.

THE CHAMPAGNE DAME Join Kyla Kirkpatrick, aka the Champagne Dame, who will guide you on a fascinating journey to uncover the history of ‘bubbles’.

You will learn proper champagne etiquette and indulge your senses with a tasting of the Pommery range of exquisite champagnes.

You will also learn the art of sabrage, the art of opening a champagne bottle with a sword!

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Tickets - $49.00 per person.

CHEFS MARQUEE Learn how to make a trendy and old fashion cocktail conducted by professional barman Joshua Kolossa. The cocktail marquee will run throughout the whole weekend free of charge.

MASTERCLASS: PIERRICK BOYER Join French executive Pastry chef, Monsieur Pierrick Boyer in the original 1800s kitchen of historic Como House. This 2 hour masterclass will transform all your French pastry fantasies into reality.

Saturday you will learn the secrets

of macaroon making and Sunday’s class will be a Croquembouche masterclass. Tickets - $129.00 per person.

ONE OF THE world’s leading film festivals, the Venice International Film Festival, opened with a host of the world’s leading film stars and celebrities including George Clooney, Sandra Bullock, Bernardo Bertolucci and Eva Riccobono, arriving in a fleet of new and classic Maseratis for the opening event.

To mark the 70th Venice International Film Festival, Maserati took the role as main sponsor of the event, ensuring the stars arrived on the red carpet in the style and elegance that only a Maserati can deliver.

The stars included the host of the event, stunning Sicilian-born top model and actress Eva Riccobono (above) and the breathtakingly beautiful actress and producer Sandra Bullock. All eyes were on them as they each arrived in the all-new Maserati Quattroporte, which is set to make its own debut in Australia and New Zealand in October.

Also to arrive in the luxurious four door saloon and Trident Marque’s flagship, none other than Hollywood’s biggest heartthrob, George Clooney (right), and one of the most famous working Italian directors in the world, Bernardo Bertolucci, who is also this year’s Chair of the International Jury for

the Competition of the 70th Venice International Film Festival.

Following the ceremony, guests were chauffeured in a stream of Maseratis to attend the magnificent setting and focal point of the Venice Film Festival, The Maserati Terrace, set in the pool area at the Hotel Excelsior. The main sponsor area, The Maserati Terrace, played a vital part of the Venice Film Festival with it dedicated to interviews, meetings, cocktail parties and events.

It was also here that Maserati hosted a magical evening with the exclusive opening film screening alongside Sandra Bullock and George Clooney.

The world renowned Academy Award winners both star in this autumn’s eagerly awaited science fiction thriller, Gravity, directed by the very highly acclaimed Alfonso Cuarón, best known for his films Y Tu Mamá También (2001), Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004) and Children of Men (2006).

The evening marked the beginning of Maserati’s relationship with the 70th International Film Festival of the Venice Biennial as main sponsor of the event, cementing the relationship between the prestigious film festival and the Fiat Group.

The 70th Venice International Film Festival was held from August 28 to September 7, 2013 and throughout those dates, Maserati held an exclusive courtesy car service, ensuring a constant presence of the Trident cars on the red carpet, which had the various international celebrities attending the Venice Film Festival on board.

Just a few months from the start of celebrations for its centenary, Maserati is a company in rapid expansion. With presence in 65 markets worldwide, its role is clearly confirmed as an international ambassador of Italian excellence.

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LEADING AUSTRALIAN ARTIST, James Corbett, has been commissioned to create an iconic trophy for the inaugural PIRTEK Enduro Cup, which is part of the V8 Supercar Championship Series for the first time this year.

Awarded to the team with the best accumulative points total from the just-completed Sandown 500, and Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 and Armor All Gold Coast 600 in October, the trophy will be created from original PIRTEK fittings and other raw materials.

Corbett, from Ningi, Queensland, has been sculpting his incredibly life-like pieces from old car parts since early 1999. During that time his unique works have found homes in all capital cities in Australia as well as England, Switzerland, New Zealand, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and the United States.

James discovered his talent for creating his amazing pieces of art whilst running an auto recycling business in Brisbane. His first piece was an off road race buggy, inspired by a sport James had participated in

for some 10 years.

He has completed commissions for many private collectors and major corporations, including a shark which was presented to Greg Norman from Toyota Australia.

Several of Corbett’s Aussie animal pieces were used in a series of advertisements for Toyota Parts and Service, featuring the famous ‘Crocodile Hunter’, Steve Irwin.

“I have a strong vision in my head of what I want to achieve. I try to imagine the mood or purpose of the subject. My goal is to create the illusion of life and movement from inanimate cast-offs,” said Corbett.

“I like the challenge of making something work. I have always needed to be creative. Those instincts have led me to where I am now. The majority of my pieces are made from old car parts and some of those have been up to 80 years old,” said Corbett.

“You should be confident in your ability but also your own strongest critic. If there’s something about a finished piece that you are not 100 per cent confident with then your sculpture isn’t truly finished. You must be brave enough to accept the challenge of making it 100 per cent.”

BLOOMINGDALE’S HAS COLLABORATED with iconic British brands to create a range of exclusive merchandise.

Gents can shop for exclusive styles and capsule collections from more than 50 designers, offering 300+ must-have fashions for fall.

Along with exclusives from Burberry, Drake’s, Paul Smith, Turnbull & Asser and more, also included in the round-up for him are Farrell, Flying Horse Jeans, Marwood, and Wolsey, all of which are making their American debut exclusively at Bloomingdale’s.

Women can bring their own taste

of Great Britain into their wardrobe via exclusive capsule collections from designers such as AllSaints, Karen Millen, Reiss, and Ted Baker.

She’ll also be able to show off her British love affair with UK-inspired exclusives from Aqua, Quotation, Wild Fox, and more. Ladies can accessorize with exclusives from designers like Burberry, Kardinale, The Cambridge Satchel Company, and others.

The retailer also put a British spin on the iconic reusable ‘Little Brown Bag.’ Even her lingerie can celebrate the UK with the launch of L’Agent designed by Penélope

and Monica Cruz for British favorite Agent Provocateur. As a special treat for the British loving beauty buffs, Bloomingdale’s will be the exclusive US department store launch for the UK’s own Illamasqua.

Bloomingdale’s also will be celebrating the phenomenon that started the American’s love for all things British – The Beatles. Together with both Apple Corp Ltd and The Beatles, Bloomingdale’s will offer a one-of-a-kind assortment of men’s merchandise to celebrate 50+ years of Beatlemania. With the help of Ben Sherman, Hardy Amies, Lily and Lionel, Ted Baker, and dozens

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largest private sector hunger relief initiative, spanning more than 130 countries and territories, over 39,000 KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell restaurants and nearly 1.5 million employees. The initiative began in 2007 in an effort to raise awareness, volunteerism and funds for the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and other hunger relief agencies.

The new PSA includes footage from Aguilera’s recent field visit to Rwanda where she witnessed the effects of hunger first hand and helped beneficiaries of WFP’s nutrition programs. Aguilera served food to hungry children who walk miles to and from CHRISTINA AGUILERA IS school each day to receive a hot using her powerful voice in the meal through WFP’s school meals fight against hunger in a new public service announcement (PSA) program. She also travelled to a refugee camp that houses more for Yum! Brands World Hunger than 18,000 people living in small Relief effort, launching in KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell restaurants man-made huts.

She spent time with mothers and worldwide to benefit the UN World children at the camp and heard Food Programme and others. about how they escaped violence According to the United Nations, there are nearly 1 billion in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Aguilera’s inspirational people around the world who song, Light Up the Sky, plays are hungry. Yum! Brands’ World throughout the :15 and :30 Hunger Relief effort is the world’s

versions of the PSA that will air on television and online starting this month.

In addition to the new PSA, Aguilera raises awareness for the issue through new World Hunger Relief posters at KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell restaurants with the quote, “Together, we have the power to save lives and move from hunger to hope,” plus advertising and online efforts, including the campaign’s website, www.HungertoHope.com She has served as global spokesperson for Yum! Brands’ World Hunger Relief effort since 2009 where her participation has helped raise millions for WFP and other hunger relief agencies. She also serves as an “Ambassador Against Hunger” for WFP where she has travelled on relief trips with the organization to Guatemala, Haiti and Rwanda.

“I’m deeply moved by the many hungry mothers and children that I met in Rwanda,” said Aguilera.

“It’s important for people to know that for just 25 cents a day, we can feed a child in school and be part of the solution.”

of others, shoppers will be able to scoop up new collectables inspired by the beloved band.

Through a partnership with Clear Channel Media and Entertainment, Bloomingdale’s will share its love for British rock and pop culture through a custom ‘UK Rocks’ station on iHeartRadio.

Details on the special launch events with VIP appearances at local Bloomingdale’s stores can be found at @bloomingdales, where you can join the conversation with #BloomiesLovesUK www.bloomingdales.com/events WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

IN RESPONSE TO the fan support at the box office for TriStar Pictures’ hit film One Direction: This Is Us the studio has released an extended cut of the film.

This Is Us – Extended Fan Cut will feature 20 minutes of new footage and four songs not

previously in the movie. The film has taken in an estimated $50 million worldwide since opening.

Commenting on the announcement, Jeff Blake, chairman, Worldwide Marketing and Distribution for Sony Pictures, “We’re overwhelmed by the

response to the film, so we’re thrilled to be able to release this extended cut of the film for One Direction fans.

One Direction: This Is Us is a captivating and intimate all-access look at life on the road for the global music phenomenon.

Weaved with stunning live concert footage, the feature film tells the story of Niall, Zayn, Liam, Harry and Louis’ meteoric rise to fame, from their humble hometown beginnings and competing on the X-Factor, to conquering the world and performing at London’s famed O2 Arena.

Directed by Morgan Spurlock, the film is produced by Simon Cowell, Adam Milano, Morgan Spurlock, and Ben Winston. The executive producers are Richard Griffiths, Harry Magee, Will Bloomfield, Doug Merrifield, Jeremy Chilnick, and Matthew Galkin.

NORDSTROM IS EXPANDING its partnership with TOPSHOP and TOPMAN by adding 28 TOPSHOP departments and eight TOPMAN departments across the USA, starting in late September 2013. The expansion will bring the number of

Nordstrom stores with TOPSHOP and TOPMAN to 42 and 18 respectively. In addition, Nordstrom plans a completely refreshed design for the departments in new and existing stores.

Nordstrom is the only large US retailer to sell a broad assortment of the British fashion brands’ merchandise in-store and online at www.nordstrom.com. TOPSHOP and TOPMAN have flagship stores in New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, and their own US designated websites at www.

TOPSHOP.com and www.TOPMAN. com TOPSHOP and TOPMAN merchandise will be available in key markets such as Dallas, Houston, Minneapolis, San Diego, Washington, D.C., Southern and Northern California, South Florida, as well as new downtown locations in Chicago and Seattle.

Since launching its core offering

in September 2012, Nordstrom has added TOPSHOP shoes and makeup in select stores and continues to expand the TOPMAN suiting offer, which will be in more than 30 additional stores by November.

“I am excited about this next phase of the partnership between Nordstrom and TOPSHOP and TOPMAN,” said Sir Philip Green, CEO of TOPSHOP and TOPMAN’s parent company, the Arcadia Group.

“I always believed that Nordstrom’s multi-channel presence was the decisive factor in partnering with them in the USA, and we are looking forward to the further expansion across so many great cities, and refining our presence within their stores and on-line.

Pete Nordstrom, president of Nordstrom Merchandising commented: “Working with Sir Philip and the entire TOPSHOP TOPMAN team has been great. They have been excellent partners.”

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FIA PRESIDENT JEAN Todt and Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E Holdings, revealed the muchanticipated new Spark-Renault SRT_01E fully-electric singleseater during the opening day of the prestigious 65th International Frankfurt Motor Show.

Watched by invited guests and members of the press, the SRT_01E has been designed and built by Spark Racing Technology, headed by the renowned Frédéric Vasseur, together with a consortium of the leading manufacturers in motorsport, and will compete in the inaugural FIA Formula E Championship - the world’s first global electric race series beginning in September 2014.

Using the very latest technology, the SRT_01E aims to push the boundaries of what is currently achievable in electric motorsport, whilst ensuring a balance between cost-effectiveness and sustainability, in addition to coping with the demands of racing entirely on city-centre circuits.

The car’s monocoque chassis has been constructed by leading Italian firm Dallara and has been aerodynamically designed to aid overtaking. Made from carbon fibre and aluminium, the chassis will fully comply with the 2014 FIA crash tests.

Providing the electric motor, gearbox and electronics is McLaren Electronics Systems, the

world leader in high- performance technology for motorsport.

Williams Advanced Engineering, part of the Williams group of companies that includes the world famous Williams F1 Team, is responsible for the design and supply of the batteries and their battery management systems; producing 200kw (the equivalent of 270bhp).

Overseeing all the systems integration, performance optimisation and powertrain electrical safety is Formula E’s Technical Partner Renault, a leader in electric vehicles and an expert in motorsport thanks to its Renault Sport Technologies and Renault Sport F1 programmes. Meanwhile, custom made 18-inch treaded tyres have been created by Official Tyre Partner, Michelin, with just one durable tyre to cater for both wet and dry conditions and helping to reduce overall costs and promote sustainability.

“I congratulate all partners involved in the production of the fully-electric SRT_01E car – it is a fantastic achievement,” said FIA President Jean Todt. “The innovative technology deployed follows the best environmental practices, highlighting the potential of the Formula E Championship to spark a revolution in the development of new electromobility systems, not just for motorsport but also for everyday use.”

TOUCHDOWN! It’s the dawning of a new tailgating age as Charmin toilet paper teams up with the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens to kick off the 2013 football season in style. The Charmin Relief Project is a program designed to present consumers with better bathroom experiences when they are away from home, starting by bringing state-of-the-art restrooms to Denver, when the Denver Broncos host the Super Bowl XLVII Champions, the Baltimore Ravens.

BE POLISHED AND PRIMPED Clinique is now a sponsor of Royal Randwick and the Australian Turf Club (ATC) for the Spring & Autumn Carnival.

Clinique will support Royal Randwick with the Clinique lounge present on major race days in both the Members & General Admission areas. An offering for both the ladies and gents will make sure everyone trackside looks polished and primped.

D&G OPENS IN AUSTRALIA Dolce & Gabbana, has opened its first ever Australian store, joining other prominent European luxury retailers, Chanel, Prada, Gucci, and Hermes on Melbourne’s Collins Street. The Italian luxury house has positioned itself at the front of recently renovated heritagelisted Mayfair Building.

WESTFIELD SELLS US ASSETS Australian shopping centre operator Westfield, is selling seven US malls in Ohio, Washington State, California, and Indiana for $US1.64 billion ($A1.76 billion). Starwood Capital Group, a private equity company, will own and manage the malls while Westfield will maintains a 10 per cent equity interest.

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BROOKLYN-BASED AMERICAN AUTHORS have written their ticket for a packed northern Summer season of shows across the country, as TV and radio exposure for their premiere tracks on Island Records Believer and Best Day of My Life pile up recognition for the band.

Best Day of My Life has been featured nationwide on commercials for Lowe’s Home Improvement stores (http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=aGz9I9K2SM0) as well as on spots for cable TV’s History Channel 2. At the same time, the Believer - Brooklyn Version video was added to the mtvU Freshmen program (http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=gIhWk86R9Ao), and viewers of FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance also heard the song.

SiriusXM Alt Nation’s tastemaker DJs and diehard listeners embraced Believer and sent the song to channel 36’s Alt 18 Countdown. It then went on to become the most played song on Alt Nation so far this year. A huge spike in social media and music sales followed, along with a mini-tour with fellow alt rockers, A Silent Film, GoldFields, and Carousel, as well as an appearance at SXSW. The four members of American Authors - Zac Barnett (vocals), James Adam Shelley (guitar/banjo), Dave WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

Rublin (bass), and Matt Sanchez (drums) - hail from the four corners of the USA, but first met as students at Berklee College of Music. They soon dropped out, moved into a small apartment in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn, and started a band. Their cover of Cindy Lauper’s True Colors on the fan-driven MTV Iggy online contest won them a Chevy Spark.

Producers Shep Goodman and Aaron Accetta, saw the band perform and signed them to their production company, Dirty Canvas.

Each member of American Authors brings his own influences and experiences to the table, creating pop-flavored alt rock sprinkled with four-part harmonies, spirited lyrics,

and contagious optimism.

“We’re the authors of our lives,” said Barnett.

“Creating music from what we’ve lived, from what we hope for, from what we feel.

“Every day is different and like everyone, our emotions change according to our personal highs and lows and by the challenges or triumphs that affect all of us. We’re not afraid to be goofy one day and serious the next. We just want to be true to ourselves and share our stories for as long as people are willing to listen.”

The band has also teamed up with BarkBox to create a super cute puppy love inspired video for Best Day of My Life. The video is premiering exclusively on Buzzfeed www.buzzfeed.com BarkBox is working with the indie rock group to further the cause of homeless dogs. Every single bulldog that gets rescued in September and October gets three free months of BarkBox and a full free year of BarkCare, their 24/7 vet service. https://barkbox.com/

THE FASTEST SELLING paperback of all time, Fifty Shades of Grey, continues to expand its empire with the launch of the official Fifty Shades of Grey lingerie collection, available exclusively in Australia at Target from Thursday September 26, 2013.

Plucked from the pages of E L James’ bestseller, the luxury lingerie breathes life into the popular tale with style references drawn directly from the trilogy.

“I’m thrilled that Target will be the exclusive retailer of the official Fifty Shades of Grey lingerie collection in Australia, offering widespread access to the luxury collection.

We’ve worked together to ensure the range encapsulates the passion of Anastasia and Christian’s love,” said James.

“The collection is styled on the elegant pieces Anastasia receives from Christian, lifting the Fifty Shades of Grey story off the pages and into the wardrobes of Australian women.

The pieces tap into the fantasy world from the trilogy,” continued James.

Capturing the beautiful naïveté

of Anastasia, the range features exclusively designed bustiers, balconette bras, suspenders, bikini briefs, g-strings and a sheer chemise. The elegant silhouettes are hued in shades of powder blue, oyster, black and scarlet to cater for every occasion, flirting with the idea of light and dark.

“The Fifty Shades of Grey collection delivers a high quality line of lingerie that reflects our affordable and accessible prices. The brand is an enigma that continues to captivate women, and this collection channels ideas of romance into the evocative lingerie range,” said Sally Shing, general manager Underwear, Footwear, Accessories and Beauty, Target Australia.

The debut Fifty Shades of Grey lingerie collection will be available exclusively at Target Australia in store and online at target.com.au from 26 September. Prices range from $15 for g-strings, $19 for briefs, $35 for bras, $35 for suspenders and $49 for bustiers and chemises. Target says the range is available for a strictly limited time only.

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prodijee Editor Darren House darren@prodijee.com Fashion & Lifestyle Editor Carol Sheridan carol@prodijee.com Art Director Carolyn Stevens Contributing Writers Joey Sulfaro John Anthony Michael Bongiorno Vita Carbone Matthew Wren Christine Clais David Dowsey Sarah French Ieva Georges Jon Palmieri Kortney Rae Amy Sommer Chief Photographer Matthew Wren Contributing Photographers Andrew Browne John Doig Hair/Make Up Aneta Nastevski Sera Fathers Advertising advertising@prodijee.com Published by: prodijee PO Box 4158 Ringwood, 3134, Vic. Australia info@prodijee.com www.prodijee.com

BE GREEN EMBRACE THE SCREEN!

No trees were harmed during the production of this magazine.

Material published in prodijee is copyright and may not be reproduced by any means of duplication without the written permission of the publisher.

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going postal HOT HEAD

I have read some of your past stories about horse racing events and you have shown some nice fashion, but I wonder if it is really necessary to wear a hat? I hate hats, and my friends say that I can’t go with them unless I wear one.

What is the go with them? They cost a fortune and look totally stupid on EVERYONE. Chayna Tang Epping, Victoria, AUSTRALIA.

Fashion Ed: Number 1, get new friends! You can’t go out with your friends if you don’t wear a hat? Hats and headwear are a tradition for all horseracing events, but there are no laws that say you MUST wear them. I agree with you in regard to the pricing, but there are cheaper options. You can buy all the items you will need to decorate up a headband at places like Spotlight, you can even buy the base of a hat and decorate it up yourself with lace and flowers, or, if all else fails, clip your hair back with a lovely big flower.

MANY BEERS, NO TEARS

A while ago you did a story on the GABS Festival. I just wanted to say that I went to the festival and it was awesome. You got to taste a whole heap of different beers, which was really good and saves you buying a 6-pack of something that you might not like. I took my girlfriend with me. She didn’t want to go because she thought that me and my mates were just going to get drunk, but she said it was a good festival, she had fun, and she enjoyed trying the different beers too. Nobody got drunk (but we could have!)

Ryder Collins Caroline Springs, Victoria AUSTRALIA.

ED: I agree with you Ryder, it was a great festival, and I too enjoyed trying some of the many different types of beer available.

IN THE NAVY

Your story about the chef, Sarah French, was really good. I will be joining the navy at the end of this year and her story has inspired me.

InDaHouse As much as I want to be in the navy, I don’t want to be there forever and this story shows me how you can learn a lot more about the things you love and get to travel at the same time. Thankyou for your story and GOOOOOOOOOO Sarah, she is truly inspirational!

Lowanna Larkman Anula, NT, AUSTRALIA.

vanity at the expense of the lives of innocent creatures?

Tahlia Mckenna Akron, Ohio, USA.

Ed: Have to agree with you 100 per cent, Lowanna. Sarah is not only inspirational, she is a delight to be around. A truly beautiful person inside and out.

I was shocked with your story on Fashion Fetish; you should not encourage this type of filth.

Disgusting!

Rev Noah Jackson Springfield, Missouri, USA.

GREAT JOB, LEIF

Thankyou for sharing the story of Leif Cocks and the wonderful work he is doing. I am now looking at my products and am also upset that so many of them (all of them) have ingredients that are somehow damaging the environment and causing death for many of the world’s beautiful creatures. Who are we to take their land? Who are we to use beauty products and shampoos etc in our bid for

Ed: I admit to being quite taken back when I was checking some of the products in my house too, and yes, Leifs story is inspirational.

VULGAR FASHION

Ed: Our story was about the woman behind the fashion and her struggles and achievements in setting up a business. Whilst I acknowledge your opinion, there are other people who love the article and love the style. Everyone is different; it is what makes the world go around.

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? Send prodijee an email at goingpostal@prodijee.com

FOR KEEN OBSERVERS of the human psyche, a democratic election provides an interesting insight into human behaviour.

We have become used to politicians changing their policies in order to gain votes. But you only have to browse through the comments section of online news services to see this behaviour extends to the parties’ die-hard ‘rusted-on’ supporters’.

This was highlighted during this month’s Australian federal election and the sensitive issue of asylum seekers arriving in Australia by boat via Asia.

Prior to the 2007 election, the right-wing Liberal government had a hard line stance on asylum seekers, which had all but stopped refugees arriving in the country. After winning power that year, the left-wing Labor party, on humanitarian grounds, softened the policy and around 50,000 asylum seekers arrived over the next six years.

That became a hot 2013 election issue, prompting then Prime Minister Rudd to shift policy 180 degrees, denying all asylum seekers arriving by boat the right to ever settle in Australia.

While Rudd’s about face was not surprising, curiously the rusted-ons from both sides also developed a new point of view.

Labor supporters dumped their humanitarian stance, claiming the new policy was good for the country and stopped asylum seekers from drowning at sea.

On the other hand, Liberal supporters shifted their previous hard-lined stance, claiming Labor’s new policy was cruel and went too far.

No wonder it is said we get the government we deserve.

DARREN HOUSE WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

what’s hot WHERE SOPHISTICATION MEETS urban street chic, OPI visits the golden city of San Francisco for their next lacquer collection, San Francisco by OPI. The colour palette of the San Francisco by OPI collection consists of moody greys and blues, burgundies and browns, garnet and ruby tones, where each shade is designed to accessorise the hottest looks in fashion. This collection also includes a range of Liquid Sand shades, the new textured formula from OPI that was popular with many designers at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia.

OPIs’ new Liquid Sand lacquer dries to a textured matte pebbled finish, infused with reflective sparkle.

• San Francisco by OPI Collection consists of 15 lacquer hues; • A-Piers to Be Tan – a chocolaty caramel tan • Dining al Frisco – feast your eyes

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on this fresh shade of blue • Haven’t the Foggiest – it wouldn’t be San Francisco without this misty grey • Peace & Love & OPI – an unusual holographic blend of eggplant and sage – very funky • Keeping Suzi at Bay – an assertive navy blue • Incognito in Sausalito – keep this almost-black blue under wraps • Lost on Lombard – you will get all dizzy with the glorious shade of garnet • I Knead Sour-Dough – a warm toasty brown • Muir Muir on the Wall – a trailblazing shade of plum, just ask the magic mirror • In the Cable Car-Pool Lane – get taken away with this rich burgundy.

• Embarca-Dare Ya! – a marvellous magenta

• First Date at the Golden Gate – a shimmery ruby • It’s All San Andreas’s Fault (Liquid Sand) – a textured earthy taupe • Wharf! Wharf! Wharf! (Liquid Sand) – a textured rich matte blue • Alcatraz…Rocks. (Liquid Sand – a textured shade of grey Available now at selected beauty salons, spas, David Jones and Myer stores nationally - RRP $19.95 In last month’s issue we mentioned that OPI is again supporting breast cancer research with the launch of a new limited edition Pink of Hearts 2013 art pack complete with pink ribbon stick-on decals and crystals.

The pack includes two shades, plus 10 pink ribbon stick-on decals and crystals, retailing for $24.95 at selected beauty salons, spas and David Jones from September 13, while stocks last.

IF YOU ARE like me, you need to be very careful what products you use on and around your eyes due to sensitivities. But whether we have super sensitive skin or not, we should always be very cautious what products we use.

1000 Hour claim to be the only lash brand in Australia to provide a hypo-allergenic adhesive in each and every lash kit. The iconic brand has been in the artificial lash business for over 10 years and are well known as a high quality, good value brand by makeup artists and beauty lovers alike.

Sue Bannister, 1000 Hour PR Manager said, “Artificial eyelashes have come a long way. Once relegated to the beauty kits of professionals only, false lashes have become part of the average woman’s beauty bag.

“The Black Vogue lashes are so popular due to the fact they give a classic look and thicken the lashes in a natural looking way.

“For those after something more dramatic, there is a wide range of colours and styles with each application creating a different look,” she added.

1000 Hour lashes are known for their eyelash glue, a favourite amongst makeup artists, as it applies white and dries clear and securely for precision placement, is latex free, waterproof and re-useable.

1000 Hour Lashes Step-by-Step application: 1. Peel off lashes using tweezers 2. If needed trim lashes to fit your eyes 3. Apply adhesive to lash band – hold for 20 seconds (Applies white but dries clear) 4. Apply lashes along natural lash line. Press the centre first then the inner and outer corners RRP $8.95 - Available from Priceline, Woolworths, Price Attack, Hairhouse Warehouse, pharmacies nationally. www.thebeautyoffice.com.au

NIVEA HAS LONG been at the forefront of anti-ageing skin care with its Q10 plus Anti-Wrinkle range. The people at NIVEA understand that for the best defence against wrinkles, you need to support your

skin’s own renewal process and protect it from elements that cause premature skin ageing. They also know that anti-ageing care isn’t just for your face – but your body too.

Accordingly, the NIVEA Q10 plus Anti-Wrinkle range includes: • Q10 plus Day Cream SPF30+ • Q10 plus Light Day Cream SPF 15+ for combination skin • Q10 plus Night Cream • Q10 plus Eye Cream • Q10 plus Anti-Age Hand Cream • Q10 plus Firming Body Lotion • Q10 plus Contouring Cream Available nationally from supermarkets, mass merchants and selected pharmacies.

NIVEA Q10 plus Anti-Wrinkle Day Cream SPF30+ RRP $19.95 WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

IS THERE ANYTHING more annoying than being half way through your workout, listening to your favourite track, totally in the zone, when your earphones suddenly decide they’ve had enough and bungee jump from your ears? Talk about a momentum killer...

Developed by athletes, yurbuds sport earphones use TwistLock technology to secure the earbuds in the ears. This means they are ‘locked’ into the ear and will only come out when you want them to.

Even under the most intense (and sweaty!) workout sessions, these little babies will stay put, inspiring longer and harder workouts. They are made with flexible silicone making them ultra soft and

comfortable for hours on end. yurbuds says exceptional sound quality is produced by 15mm drivers. They even allow ambient noise, helping you to remain more aware of your surroundings than you might with other earphones.

Many yurbuds models have cloth coated wires that won’t get tangled or torn. Some models even have buttons for controlling music and calls on your iPhone, iPod, iPad or other smartphones and MP3 devices. You have a choice of many cool styles, colours and features, and there’s even a women’s range for slightly smaller ears. Prices range from $40 - $125.

Available from Rebel Sport and Myer stores, or online from www.yurbuds.com.au.

IT SEEMS THAT the ponytail never goes out of fashion, whether it is a full ponytail or a half one, to the side, central back, high, low, sleek or curly, there is always some form that is on trend.

Lady Jane has introduced a new ponytail collection that gives your pony tail an elegant style in just minutes.

The collection comprises a full cuff, semi-cuffs and bows in gold, rose gold or silver.

The full cuff (RRP $9.99) is best worn in a high to low slung ponytail. Keep it low and textured or high and sleek for a modern look. To use, secure the ponytail with the attached elastic. Then open the cuff and position it around the base of your ponytail. Expert Tip: Keep your cuff in proportion to the length of your hair.

The semi-cuff (RRP $9.99) looks best in a high or low slung ponytail. However it is best for longer, thicker hair, as it doesn’t wrap around the full width of the pony. To use, secure the ponytail with the attached elastic. Then slide the cuff over the top of the pony to your desired position. Expert Tip: Make sure you choose a metallic tone that stands out against your hair.

The bow (RRP $8.99) adds a chic, feminine touch to a ponytail or bun. Add to a textured topknot for a flirty and fun look. To use, secure your ponytail or bun with the attached elastic and slide the bow around to your desired position.

To view a How-To video visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9ljYYYE_So Available at Priceline and selected pharmacies.

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DEPARTING IN 2011 the daily demands of working around two of the world’s most talked about and respected football clubs – Everton and Tottenham Hotspur – journalist Paul Dargan embarked on his career as an author. His inspiration?

The lifestyles and habits of those very footballers he interviewed and profiled during a 13-year reporting career that also included service at Sky Sports and Liverpool’s Radio City station.

The result is No Doubting Thomas, a fictional, spicy and intense thriller that, from over a decade at the forefront of the game, sees the author reflect on the incredible riches and harsh realities of the modern game.

This incredible debut, available on Kindle, is written in a flashback/ juxtaposed style and deals with depression, homophobia and the murky world of bribes and gangland-style ‘hits’. It follows Thomas Clark, a youngster so similar to the sometimes respected, sometimes reviled breed of real-life ‘too much too young’ footballers who, seemingly, have the world at their feet. The reality, through a procession of events so common in the modern game, leaves the star toiling with the very fabric of what made him want to play football in the first place.

Dargan’s incredible and privileged access to the very mechanics of modern football project a startling reality onto what is a stunning debut... one that will be talked about in years to come. The book is a barometer for the modern game and a reminder that all that glitters is not gold, even in the modern Premier League era.

Book extracts: “Looks are one

thing that I don’t possess in great abundance and, luckily, I have a talent for something where they are not important. I’ll never be the one who gets the underwear or expensive couture contracts – not that I am bothered. I just buy it myself.”

“Why was I thinking like this? I was told that I would be able to make a full recovery. What was making me feel this way? I never knew it at the time, but depression was starting to set in. I thought depression was something that only older people got; something that someone with a lot of money would never worry about.”

“I wanted to depict the true reality of the Premier League – away from the cameras, away from the glamour. I wanted to show the wealth and the opulence, yes, but I’ve had incredible behind-thescenes access and seen things you wouldn’t believe possible in 2013.

Although a fictional account of one player’s attempt to make it to the top (and stay there), this debut novel is every bit the frightening reality of modern football,” said Dargan.

Paul Dargan is a writer, freelance journalist and broadcaster, who has worked for Everton Football Club, Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, Sky Sports, National Geographic, BBC Radio Merseyside and Radio City 96.7.

DESIGNED BY INTERNATIONALLY renowned makeup artist Samantha Chapman, the Real Techniques brand has released the limited edition Duo-Fiber Brush Set, which includes 1 x face brush, 1 x contouring and sculpting brush and 1 x Eye Brush.

Complete with duo fiber bristles that work with cream, liquid or powder for an unbelievably air brushed finish and extended aluminium handles that are light and easy to use.

Real Techniques Duo-Fiber Collection uses synthetic bristles that are ultra-plush and cruelty free. Reveal your inner expert with these three limited edition brushes. Available for a limited time from Priceline stores – RRP $49.95 for the set of three.

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NO MATTER IF it’s Father’s Day, birthdays, Christmas or just Monday through Sunday, muk is always caring for guys’ hair, and have now introduced a new styling and texturizing shampoo.

HARD MUK STYLING & TEXTURISING SHAMPOO is a double impact shampoo which gently cleanses the hair and scalp to help eliminate build-up, residue and excess oils that can weigh hair down. The product is ideal for shorter styles or layered hair and provides the ultimate foundation for styling. The non-softening formula is perfect for men who want that extra fabric prior to applying their favourite muk styling paste or for guys with longer layers who need some extra grit and hold prior to styling.

The end result is serious style with maximum texture, adding bulk to even the finest, limp and most difficult to style hair. It’s gentle enough for everyday use and comes in a convenient tube for easy use and travel. RRP $19.95, 250ml

HINTS & TIPS: Apply Hard muk Styling & Texturising Shampoo to wet hair and massage with flat hands. Rinse thoroughly and repeat the process.

For ultimate texture and body, avoid using conditioner. Then style with WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

your favourite muk styling product – RRP $23.95 – for the ultimate in stying for shorter styles with finishes from matte, dry, gloss or something in between. All products are humidity resistant and water soluble.

styling paste to create textured styles with some grunt! A gritty finish styling paste that combines flexible hold with high definition and texture, hairstyles can be easily worked and re-worked without any flaking.

HARD MUK delivers the intense mattifying texture of clay, with a low sheen finish and easy application.

Hair conforms to undone, roughed up styles with a flexible hold. The result is a non-greasy and watersoluble style.

RAW MUK creates perfectly groomed and textured styles. This styling mud is a firm hold, highgloss styling product that leaves hair smooth and controlled with enhanced shine. Hair is touchable and defined, creating the ultimate finish.

DRY MUK ULTRA MATTE STYLING PASTE is the ultimate weapon in creating matte styles that endure the test of time. The new matte paste delivers intense matte results with no shine, whilst providing flexibility to create the perfect roughed up, texturised style.

ROUGH MUK FORMING CREAM provides flexible hold, maximum texture and a natural shine finish. A smooth unisex paste that spreads easily on the hair, Rough muk provides long-lasting control and humidity resistance without flaking, stickiness or build-up.

FILTHY MUK provides strong hold with a flexible finish, it is the ultimate

I have some of these amazing muk products to give away.

Just email me – carol@prodijee.com – with the words ‘muk giveaway’ in the subject line.

(Australian residents only).

The best networking opportunity in the industry • Exposure to more than 20 industry people in one day!

• Multiple models and photographers moving from station to station to a coordinated schedule • Multiple hair and make up looks per model • Designer garments, jewellery and props supplied • Training in posing and industry practice from a professional model • Photography workshop and mentoring by a known fashion photographer

Photo: Daniel Fisher

• Stunning shoot venues – a blend of studio and location, designer and natural • Whether you’re established and have a creative concept in mind or a student starting your portfolio from scratch, Model Success events provide custom portfolio creation from start to finish for models, photographers, hair/MUAs

Portfolio Building Events Register and find out more at www.modelsuccess.com.au

Photo: Adrian Carmody

Photo: Nishimachi Photo: Rey Susanto

NATIO IS JUST about to release their new mini nail colours just in time for Spring’s naturally vibrant palette.

The collection offers twelve seasonal shades across two distinct colour factions – ‘Pearl’ and ‘Pop’.

Worn solo, each of the shades deliver on pretty, pastel chic and compliment the season’s all-white catwalk trend.

More artistically minded enthusiasts can channel their Monet and layer multiple shades for an amazing technicolour dream coat that ticks all the ‘statement nail’ style boxes.

Natio’s fun sized Pearl and Pop mini nail colours put an affordable seasonal style update right at your fingertips.

Available from Myer, David Jones and selected pharmacies or at www.natio.com .au – RRP $5.95 (9ml) – from 23 September, 2013.

THEY SAY YOU can tell a lot about a person by the look and feel of their home, from the warm sentiment of the living room, all the way through to the accessories used in the bathroom.

Palmolive Collections Liquid Hand Wash, is a range of stylishly presented hand washes designed to complement the décor of your home.

There’s three eyecatching designs and delightful fragrances – Grapefruit & Lime Tonic, Bergamot & Ginger Flower, and Orange & Jasmine. Available at your local supermarket RRP $5.99 (420ml).

I have some of these beautiful products to give away. Email me – carol@prodijee.com WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

IT’S BEEN SAID millions of times, a girl’s best friends are – diamonds, shoes and bags.

So, it’s obviously built into our genetic souls, that all those things are absolute musts. Don’t try to fight it, just give in to your destiny – diamonds, shoes and bags!

I have just found a new supplier for one of my ‘best friends’, Serenade Beverly Hills Collection of beautiful handbags, which is an international fashion house that has been designing and producing beautifully crafted handbags, wallets and luggage for more than 15 years. The label continues to grow from niche to Australian fashion emporium, continuously producing high-quality goods that transcend the seasons of fashion.

This collection is infused with fresh, new designs, colour palettes and textures while also reintroducing established classics.

The range boasts daring prints, bold colours and modern geometric designs in both leather and manmade materials. They have a fun mix of primary brights and have introduced an ostrich print in a striking turquoise green with yellow trimming as well as daring animal prints and geometric patterns.

With such a vast selection on offer, the latest collection has something for every woman, from classic designs to weekend chic and everything in between.

For stockist details call Serenade Beverly Hills Collection 02 8708 1999.

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IT’S HERE, IT’S here, Spring is finally here, and with Spring comes a multitude of great social events.

In Melbourne, the Spring Racing carnival is on the way, and with sleek and perfectly styled looks coming back in vogue, now is the time to try out new looks and even go back to the French roll. The only problem with upstyles is that if you simply don’t have enough hair or the length, these looks are almost impossible to master.

Barbara Hatten, Headlines Hairpieces Designer and former stylist says, “Your race day hair doesn’t need to involve hairdresser appointments or hours of prepping time to get you that perfect ‘do’.

“Our easy to clip in Pony Tail is the perfect foolproof option for all girls, especially those with fine or short hair to achieve a salon finish.”

How to get a sleek, chic side pony: A sleek pony never goes out of date and when styled correctly can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any outfit. To get the look, blow dry or straighten hair to guarantee super sleek locks. Tie hair to your

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preferred side and secure tightly with elastic. Clip in the Headlines Hairpieces Pony Tail over the top to add volume and length – this is especially good for girls with fine hair who want to glam up their look and take it to another level. Add a fascinator or clip on the side to complete the races look.

How to get a classic chignon: The classic chignon is sleek, chic and easy to create. The style is a little bit fancier than your average bun, which makes it perfect for the races. To achieve the look, clip in the Headlines Hairpieces ponytail and then create two separate ponytails, then tie the two together, twist and wrap up one side at a time securing in place with hair pins and spray with hairspray to finish.

Headlines Hairpieces produce the highest quality range of 100 per cent premium human hair, all made in Australia. The Headlines Hairpieces Ponytail is available in three different lengths; 30cm, 40cm and 50cm and can be handmade in ten different colours with the RRP ranging from $181.50 to $231.00. www.headlineshairpieces.com.au

TOM FORD HAS introduced a seasonal colour collection that captures the luminous and sensuous effect of bronzed skin. This limited edition collection features the new Skin Illuminator, Illuminating Cheek Color and a harmony of shimmery and sheer shades for the eyes, lips and nails.

“I wanted to capture a very particular look of skin that is bathed in sunset light in the summer. It is a sultry and sublime glow. In this light, every woman looks irresistibly relaxed and sensual,” said Tom. The face and cheeks are illuminated with peach-pink and bronzed amber; eyes are dewy and mesmerizing with delicate tones of pale pink and nude peach; nails are given a pearlized wash of white and lips are lacquered in shimmery golden pink pearls.

The collection will be available exclusively for a limited time at David Jones Elizabeth St, Sydney and Bourke St, Melbourne stores.

Skin Illuminator in Fire Lust – RRP $100.00.

Illuminating Cheek Color in Blush Guilt and Bronzed Amber – RRP $90.00 each.

Cream Color for Eyes in Pink Haze and Escapade - RRP $55.00 each

Nail Lacquer in Vapor – RRP $45.00.

Lip Lacquer in Pink Lust – RRP $65.00.

SONY AUSTRALIA HAS released its new 3D Digital Recording Binoculars. The DEV-50V is rain and dust resistant, making it the perfect all-weather companion for zooming in and recording sports, wildlife and travel.

Sony’s digital recording binoculars offer sensational close up views of animals in the wild or crucial sporting moments. Unlike ordinary binoculars there’s no need to keep focusing manually as your scene changes, speed precise autofocus ensures everything stays pin-sharp.

With the touch of a button you can take crystal sharp photos as well as stunning Full HD 3D video

footage of birds in flight, the footy game or distant mountain peaks.

“We are excited to launch Sony’s second generation 3D, HD recording binoculars. This new model has a stealth design and is packed with new features such as a high res OLED viewfinder,” said Ervin Quek, Marketing Manager, Digital Imaging at Sony Australia.

“The binoculars are smaller and lighter than the

previous model and let you capture everything with one device, lightening the load of carrying a set of binoculars and a digital camera.”

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“SPRING IS HERE and my hair needs a ‘lift’, I don’t have a fortune to pay a hairdresser, but all the ‘home’ products will leave my hair dull and lacklustre.” Have you ever thought this? Have you heard your friends say it?

It’s time to separate fact from fiction with celebrity colourist and Clairol Nice’n Easy ambassador, Belinda Jeffrey.

Myth #1: Covering re-growth or grey roots can’t be achieved at home.

“Covering regrowth and grey hair at home has never been easier. For those who are time poor Clairol Nice’n Easy Root Touch Up provides quality results from the convenience of your home, covering roots and greys anytime between regular colouring by allowing hair to be coloured on specific areas.”

Myth #2: A home hair dye will leave hair colour flat and lifeless.

“Home hair colour can actually be great for adding life and shine to dull hair by boosting colour and adding dimension. For best results, take hair colour two shades lighter or darker than your natural colour. The Clairol Nice’n Easy ColourBlend formula provides natural looking colour with multidimensional tones thanks to the exclusive ColourBlend technology.”

“Myth #3: You should always go lighter as the weather gets warmer.

Taking hair lighter when the weather warms up isn’t always necessary, and it’s important to first determine if a colour will suit you before making the change. Look at skin tone, eye colour and natural hair colour to help make a decision.”

Myth #4: All shampoo and conditioner have the same results on coloured hair.

“Not all shampoo and conditioner are formulated the same.

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To maintain hair colour and prevent fade or colour change, it’s important to use products that are specially formulated for coloured hair.” Try: Wella Pro Series Colour Shampoo and Conditioner

Myth #5: Colouring your hair will result in dry, damaged hair.

“Coloured hair doesn’t have to mean damaged hair. To ensure hair is kept in top condition after colouring and to prevent dryness and damage, use a rich moisturising treatment three times a week.” Try: Wella Pro Series RinseOff Moisture Treatment.

Available at all leading pharmacies and supermarkets nationwide. www.clairol.com.au

KOBO HAS ANNOUNCED its new lineup of eReading devices, featuring the new Kobo Aura 6”

THE EXPANDED PORSCHE Panamera model line is now available in dealer showrooms across the USA. The lineup adds three new variants: the Panamera S E-Hybrid, the first plug-in hybrid from Porsche; and two luxurious Executive versions based on the Panamera 4S and Panamera Turbo models.

A new 3.0 twin-turbo V6 engine replaces the previous 4.8-litre V8 engine in the Panamera S and Panamera 4S. The new engine is also used in the new Panamera 4S Executive and offers an additional 20hp and 15lb.-ft. of additional torque, with an increase of up to 17 per cent in fuel economy compared to the V8 engine.

The new Panamera S E-Hybrid improves the previous Panamera S Hybrid with a more powerful electric motor, and a higher-performance battery that supplies more energy and is able be recharged from home or public charging stations. The electric drive produces 95hp, double the power of the previous model’s

E Ink eReader, the Google–certified Kobo Arc 10HD and two Kobo Arc 7 Tablets.

“Kobo remains focused on reading; a time-honoured passion that keeps people informed, lets them escape, learn about new cultures, see things from a new perspective, travel back in time, and imagine new worlds,” said Michael Serbinis, CEO, Kobo.

To best showcase the company’s world-class bookstore with 4million titles, which now includes magazines and a dedicated Kids Store, the NVIDIA-powered Kobo Arc 10HD and Kobo Arc 7HD tablets offer beautiful and responsive high definition displays and uncompromised access to Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean and the Google Play Store.

The new Reading Mode feature eliminates distracting notifications and pop-ups from email, apps and

social media, optimizes the lighting settings, and extends the tablet battery life from hours to days.

For readers who prefer a dedicated reading experience, Kobo has created the beautiful Kobo Aura 6” E Ink eReader, which boasts a stunning edge-to-edge, highresolution (212 dpi) display. The Kobo Aura leverages a new lowflash screen technology to virtually eliminate ghosting and page refresh for the best book-like reading experience, and holds up to 3,000 books and lasts more than two months on a single charge.

6” Kobo Aura eReader will be available from September 16 – RRP AUD $189.95.

Arc 10HD and Arc 7HD will be available from October 16 – RRP AUD $499.95 and AUD $299.95 respectively.

electric motor.

The Panamera 4S Executive and Panamera Turbo Executive models, which feature a wheelbase extended by 5.9 inches, allow even more rear seating comfort and come with an extensive range of standard features, including a full leather interior. All Executive models are equipped with adaptive air-suspension featuring Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which combines superior performance and enhanced ride comfort.

The 2014 Panamera Turbo’s power was increased by 20hp to 520hp, while its highway fuel consumption improved by four per cent to 24 EPA mpg. The added power lets the top model sprint from zero to 60 mph in as little as 3.7 seconds, and its top track speed has increased by one mph to 189 mph.

The naturally aspirated V8 engine in the new Panamera GTS has also improved for 2014, by 10hp to 440hp, along with a four per cent increase in highway mpg.

www.kobo.com.

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CANON HAS UNVEILED the latest addition to its leading EF lens range – the new EF-S 55250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM. Designed to be compact, lightweight and versatile, the EF-S 55-250mm f/45.6 IS STM provides an incredibly flexible 55–250mm focal range that’s the perfect companion for photographers who want to get closer to their favourite subjects.

The new model is the first EF-S telephoto zoom lens to feature Canon’s advanced STM technology, alongside a 3.5-stop optical Image Stabilizer, providing outstanding stills and movie quality throughout the entire zoom range.

Canon’s advanced STM technology ensures the EF-S 55250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM provides high-performance autofocus (AF) when capturing stills, and smooth, near-silent AF in movies with compatible cameras. Offering fluid continuous focus tracking when shooting movies of moving subjects, STM also provides clean and natural focus transitions when focus shifts from one subject to another.

Audio on movie footage can also be accurately captured, without the intrusion or distraction of focusing noise from the lens, thanks to the near-silent STM mechanism.

The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM incorporates a new design, featuring Canon’s industry-leading optical Image Stabilizer technology.

The 3.5-stop advantage over nonIS models helps protect against the effects of camera shake – which are more exaggerated when shooting handheld with a telephoto zoom lens – making it easier for photographers to capture crisp and striking images in all conditions.

The lens’ new optical design includes 15 elements arranged in 12 groups, with an improved focusing distance of just 0.85m throughout its zoom range. An Electro Magnetic Diaphragm (EMD) with a circular aperture gives photographers fine control over WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

aperture and smooth, blurred backgrounds, while an Ultralow Dispersion (UD) lens tackles chromatic aberration, ensuring images are as sharp and clear as they appear to the human eye.

Canon’s optimised Super Spectra Coating also minimises internal reflections, as well as ghosting and flare.

The redesigned lens now incorporates a non-rotating front element, ensuring a consistent effect when a filter is attached to the front of the lens. Weighing just 375g, the EF-S 55-250mm f/45.6 IS is compact and lightweight – making it easy to carry around while on holiday or at family events.

EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM key features: • Compact, lightweight telephoto zoom lens • Image Stabilizer guards against blur from camera shake • STM technology for smooth, quiet focusing • Minimum focusing distance of 0.85m • High quality UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) lens element.

CANON HAS ADDED to its collection of powerful compact Super Zoom cameras with the introduction of the PowerShot SX510 HS and PowerShot SX170 IS – two cameras that get users even closer to the action. Impressive zoom capabilities are packed into the compact bodies, with the PowerShot SX510 HS featuring a 30x optical zoom, and the PowerShot SX170 IS a 16x optical zoom, providing the ability to capture subjects in the far distance in stunning detail.

“Canon’s Super Zoom range caters to the needs of people wanting to capture anything from landscapes and group shots to close-ups of distant subjects in one convenient camera, with zoom and size options to suit their comfort,” said Rebecca Pearson, assistant product manager, Consumer Capture Devices, Canon Australia.

“Appealing to travellers, Canon’s innovative ZoomPlus technology doubles the optical zoom range while still maintaining stunning image clarity, which is important for people wanting to preserve their memories in the highest quality possible.”

POWERSHOT SX510 HS Offering greater flexibility to capture a range of subjects, the PowerShot SX510 HS has a powerful 30x optical zoom lens that delivers sharp results throughout the zoom range, even in lowlight conditions, while the 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing anything from sweeping landscapes to group shots of friends. The SX510 HS uses the HS System, which combines a 12.1 Megapixel high-sensitivity CMOS sensor with a DiG!C 4 processor to capture the true ambience of lowlight scenes at times like dusk, while maintaining the realism of colours and rich detail, with minimum blur.

Using the Wi-Fi functionality on the PowerShot SX510 HS, photos and movies can be shared on social

media sites such as Facebook, Flickr and YouTube directly from the camera, or to smartphones and tablets using the free Canon CameraWindow app.[i] GPS via mobile is also available by using the app to add location information from a GPS-enabled smartphone or tablet to images, allowing users to share the exact location of the moment a photo was captured.

In addition to outstanding still images, the PowerShot SX510 HS is also capable of recording Full HD Movies (1080p) complete with stereo sound. Providing a dramatic way to capture the action when shooting fast-moving subjects, the SX510 HS also features Super Slow Motion Movie mode.

POWERSHOT SX170 IS Compact and easy-to-use, the PowerShot SX170 IS boasts a versatile lens, with a 28mm wideangle and 16x optical zoom. The lens enables users to snap a wide variety of scenarios, from group shots at parties, to close-ups of animals on safari. Vivid colours and striking detail can be captured with the powerful 16 megapixel sensor of the PowerShot SX170 IS, creating images that users will be proud to share.

The SX170 IS is also capable of capturing special moments in HD movie quality.

Both cameras benefit from Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer with Intelligent IS technology that makes it easy to capture sharp shots at longer focal lengths and in low light. Canon’s ZoomPlus technology also digitally extends the

lens reach of both models beyond the maximum focal length while maintaining high image quality, zooming as far as 60x on the PowerShot SX510 HS and 32x on the PowerShot SX170 IS. The PowerShot SX510 HS also includes an enhanced Zoom Framing Assist function with a new Auto mode, which ensures subjects are always in focus even as they move closer to, or away from, the camera.

Both models feature Eco mode, which helps users continue shooting for longer by conserving battery life. Up to 46 per cent more photos can be captured on the PowerShot SX170 IS and 32 per cent more on the PowerShot SX510 HS thanks to this feature – perfect for family days out, or holiday use. Smart Auto mode on both models detects up to 32 different scenes and applies the most appropriate settings to capture the perfect shot, while Creative Modes can be used to enhance an image, add drama, or give it a unique,

fun perspective.

Once users are ready to experiment even

more, they can easily switch to Full Manual Control to take control of individual camera settings, including shutter speed and aperture.

PowerShot SX510 HS – Key features: • Mini 30x ultra-zoom camera with 24mm wide lens • HS System: 12.1 MP CMOS, DIGIC 4 • Intelligent IS, Enhanced Dynamic IS • Wi-Fi[ii]; GPS via mobile • Full HD, HDMI • Large 7.5 cm (3.0”) LCD • Smart Auto detects 32 scenes • Zoom Framing Assist • Full Manual control

PowerShot SX170 IS – Key features: • 16x optical zoom, 28mm wide Canon lens • 16 Megapixels • Intelligent IS • Large 7.5 cm (3.0”) LCD; Hints & Tips • Smart Auto mode detects 32 scenes • HD movies • Fun Creative Filters • Full Manual control • Eco mode • Rechargeable Li-ion battery.

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THE SUN IS shining, but baring our skin after winter can be a bit daunting, particularly when our skin is probably looking a little pasty and dull after being covered up by our winter woollies.

So here’s a product that’s sure to increase your confidence. - Le Tan Wash Off - a tanning product that will literally wash off when you want it to. And no, your tan won’t run if you get caught out in the rain.

It won’t even smudge onto your clothes.

This water and transfer resistant product will only budge with soap, warm water and a good scrub, which means your clothes will stay clean and your skin beautifully bronzed.

Another big bonus with this is that you only need 60 seconds drying time before you can put your outfit on and walk out the door.

Whether you call yourself an expert or a newbie when it comes to self-tanning, it’s as simple as spray on and wash off... tanning really couldn’t be any easier.

For those who like something a little more permanent, Le Tan’s number one selling product, Le Tan in Le Can, is now available in

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a green based formula, offering a darker tan than ever before.

Le Tan in Le Can Dark Bronze creates a rich, natural looking olive tan that will leave you looking like you’ve returned from a Mediterranean holiday every time.

Application is easy. With Le Tan in Le Can’s any angle 360° nozzle, you can control your colour, leaving you with a flawless salon quality airbrushed tan every time.

Enriched with Vitamin E, your dark bronze skin will be left feeling hydrated and amazing while smelling even better thanks to the vanilla scented formula.

Of course, no tanning product will be at its best without the proper preparation and application, here are some tips from Le Tan to get the best out of your golden colour.

PREPARATION 1. Old tan, be gone!

Applying new tan over old tan is just like applying brand new nail polish over its old cracked and flaking layer - it just doesn’t work! Before you decide to smooth on your next layer of bronzey goodness, be sure you remove the old one. An alcoholic wipe or exfoliation works best.

2. Wax or Shave Unless it’s Halloween, scary hairy legs are a no-go in the tanning world. Don’t ruin your gorgeous summer glow with a rugged and bristly exterior, make sure you wax at least 48 hours and shave at least 24 hours before applying fake tan.

3. Exfoliate. Exfoliate. Exfoliate Nothing screams fake tan like blotchy, patchy skin. To avoid this, give your body a gentle scrub beforehand to ensure you’ve exfoliated out all those dead skin cells and to reveal the lively ones underneath.

4. Stay oil free The last thing you want after finishing a perfect coat are those tell-tale lines running up and down your arms and legs. Whilst you should moisturize your body often, it’s important to ensure your bodies are free of all oil based substances and deodorants prior to getting your bronze on.

5. Watch those dry spots Apply some Vaseline or moisturizer to the dryer areas of your body – ankles, elbows, hands, wrists and knees – and keep that nasty build up away!

6. Wiggle room Finally, allow yourself some wiggle room by dotting some Vaseline along your eyebrows and hairline to ensure a slip of the finger doesn’t result in overexposed features. The same can be done to your toenails and cuticles to ensure your healthy summer glow shines only where it’s supposed to.

APPLICATION 1. Application mitts - a hands best friend. Use an application mitt to ensure your hands stay safe and protected whilst providing you with a smoother and better defined tan.

Once finished, use a make-up pad to apply a slight tan to the backs of your hands and jump glove-free into Summer!

2. The perfect blend If using a lotion and you’re worried you’re going to come out too dark, throw some moisturiser into the mix. This blend will ensure your tan remains even whilst lightening the shade. Not dark enough? Just remix and repeat.

3. Bottom to Top Work your way up, moving in circular motions. Start at your feet and move upwards from there, there’s no point bronzing your upper half only to have it rub and crease as you bend down to reach the lower areas.

4. Be smoooooth Make sure you apply your tan smoothly, rubbing harder won’t help it sink in any faster. Don’t forget a quick check before you clean up to see if you have missed any spots, if you think you might have, simply apply some more. Your tan will only look patchy if you miss a spot, not if you double up.

5. Buff Away!

Now that you’ve finished applying and you’re a gorgeous golden bronze, you may notice some darker areas that don’t seem to match. Never fear, simply buff away at these darker zones until the colours begin to blend. Remember not to scrub yourself dry though, a simple pat down with a dark coloured towel after showering will ensure you stay blotch free!

6. Stay loose Don’t go getting too excited about your brand new sun-kissed look and immediately don your favourite white dress, it needs time to set.

Once you’ve finished applying your tan and it’s begun to dry, throw on some dark, loose fitting clothes until it has thoroughly sunken in. After that, wash off the excess tan and emerge in a golden glory.

7. Nail Check If you find your nails have managed to tan along with you, just soak them in some lemon juice and they’ll be tan free in no time!

8. No water until you’re dry!

Be sure to avoid contact with all water (including sweat if you can help it) until your tan has thoroughly dried. Keeping your showers luke warm will help keep you glowing longer!

MAINTENANCE 1. Moisturise Want to keep that golden look glowing longer? Then moisturize, moisturize moisturize! The more hydrated your skin is, the longer your tan will last without becoming patchy. Try to moisturize your body at least once a day to keep you tanned for longer!

2. Slip, slop, slap Lastly, despite looking like a sunkissed goddess fast tan will not protect from those harmful UV rays.

Ensure you still remember to slap on some sun protection before you go showing off your new look.

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NESTLED ABOVE THE ‘Paris’ end of Collins Street, Rakis on Collins is known for their exceptional style and outstanding service, which has seen them win more than 100 industry awards in their 29 year history. It has has also earned them the reputation as one of Melbourne’s premier hair salons.

Seduire is the seductive and alluring new collection created by the talented artistic team at Rakis.

Intense, bright, vivid colours, free from dilution dominate the hair and total image. The colours are

deliberate in their intensity to seduce and lure you into their world.

The styling incorporates classic shapes with a fashionable edge to showcase the depth and tone of the colours.

Moving away from the harsh dip dyed trends of the summer, colours are warm and vibrant, with a multitude of gold and titian hues. The hairstyle is groomed to perfection and holds a dramatic shape. Cascading waves, boxlike bouffants and exaggerated chignons reference the power dressing of the ‘80s with the attitude of the ‘90 supermodel.

Said artistic director, Danny Puopolo: “As a relative newcomer to the Rakis on Collins team, I wanted to showcase my style on behalf of the salon and highlight the classic and contemporary edge that we have in the industry with our work.

“Working alongside style director, James Razos, was a fantastic experience as he is such a big part of the Rakis brand. We created a strong vision together and seamlessly worked together to bring it to life. That’s the beauty of being a hairdresser and having the opportunity to express your sense of style and fashion.” www.rakis.com.au Photos: Peter Soulis

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THE SLEEP EXPERT’S TIPS TO A GOOD NIGHT’S REST

J

ust had lunch but still hungry?

Experience mid-morning headaches? Or lost your sex drive? All of these could be a sign that you’re not getting the sleep your body is craving, according to sleep expert and group CEO of Bedsonline.com.au, Cliff Sneider.

Reaching for that alarm clock off switch isn’t always a result of Monday blues or the dread of a winter walk to the bus stop. In fact there are many factors, such as the position of your body in bed, your pre-bed ritual and even diet, that effect how you feel when you wake up in the morning.

“It can be difficult to identify why you’re so emotional, unfocused, or just can’t shake that cold,” said Cliff. “Sometimes you may find yourself eating all day or even disinterested in your partner - these can all be symptoms of sleep deprivation or an interrupted sleep.

“Anyone experiencing these symptoms may find almost instant relief from altering small aspects of their regular routine. If not, then a trip to the doctor may be required to determine the issue.

“The amount of sleep each individual requires can vary and by trying to increase the time you’re asleep gradually each night, you will eventually find what is right for you. Keep in mind that if you’ve been deprived of sleep for an extended period of time, it will take longer to get back into a healthy pattern.”

CLIFF’S TOP 7 TIPS FOR A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP: 1. Create a regular bedtime routine – Your body needs cues to know that it needs to slow down. Ensure that you’re home at the same time every evening to prepare your body for sleep.

2. Create a sleep-conducive environment – The ideal sleep space should be dark and quiet - outdoor noises or the whirring WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

of a fan indoors can startle your body. The bedroom should also be comfortable and cool, with a temperature of 18-20°C. 3. Get up at the same time every morning – Again, it’s all about routine. The body needs its cues, even when you’re asleep! Assess how many hours your body needs to function efficiently and set your alarm to ensure that you’ve reached this number – even at the weekends!

4. Finish exercise at least 2-3 hours before bed – Regular exercise is excellent for sleep, but allow your body’s adrenalin to slow down for a couple of hours. If not, you could risk a restless first couple of hours of sleep.

5. Find the right position - Sleeping on your side with your knees bent or with a pillow between your knees is the best way to maintain proper body posture. If you must sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to support the normal curve of your lower back. Sleeping on your stomach or with your head elevated on an oversized pillow arches the natural curves of the back, and increases pressure on the diaphragm and lungs. These positions can lead to restless tossing

and turning, leaving you tired the next day.

6. Try to unwind - You may try stretching, relaxation exercises, a hot shower or bath, meditation, or a glass of hot milk or herbal tea to calm the body. If you’re faced with a task that may cause you frustration or a conversation that may anger you, avoid until morning.

7. Avoid electronics an hour before bed – Playing with phones, tablets and watching television increases brain activity that becomes difficult to switch off. Try reading or another relaxing activity instead.

If a warm bath before bed is your style of relaxation, then make the most of it and pamper yourself. Set the mood that will relax you the most, here are some options that may relax you so much you will just fall into bed and drift straight off into a good night’s sleep.

1. Aroma is very important to a lot of us. MOR, AUM and NATIO offer a large range of bath and body care products that are delicately scented and induce relaxing thoughts.

2. Lavender bath salts also provide a relaxing scent 3. For extra indulgence, never ever forget to throw a handful of beautiful, freshly picked rose petals to your bath water.

4. If you want to care for your skin while you are in the bath, a long handled loofah or body brush never go astray – have a look at the ones available from Manicare.

5. Set the scene for a total chill out – dim the lights (or turn them out completely) and have delicately scented candles burning.

6. If wine helps you relax, have a glass sitting at the edge of the bath, within easy reach.

7. Bubbles, Bubbles, and even more bubbles… nothing says ‘special’ like bubbles wrapping around your body.

8. For some traditionalists, your

favourite book, or … a rubber ducky never goes astray!

9. Have your bath pillow or rolled up towel at the ready so that you can lie back and relax completely without having to worry about getting a sore neck from the edge of the bath.

13. Sleep, fully relaxed, without the weight of the world on your shoulders. www.bedsonline.com.au

10. If noise is an issue in your house, get yourself some sound deadening headphones or put your favourite relaxing music on with your ipod/iphone and forget whatever else is going on in the rest of the house.

11. Soak for as long as you want, keep topping up the water so that it stays warm and totally relax.

12. Wrap yourself up in the softest of fluffy towels or bath robe then take yourself off to your comfy bed.

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live via satellite A

s a writer of the world’s best food, anyone that knows me can verify that every pound of me tells a culinary story. I love waking up and deciding where to eat my next meal, and when in Rome, or in Beverly Hills in this case, you go to the world famous Spago by Wolfgang Puck.

It’s a celebrity institution where my encounters have been drinks at the end of the bar with the late Tony Curtis or the night before the Golden Globes having dinner with Roberto Benigni, where I explained to him that he was a standout for the Best Foreign Picture award, which of course he won, he stole the show that night.

When the First Lady, Nancy Reagan, and Barbara Sinatra just wanted to talk to me at the front door – no one was able to go in or out, which made the Secret Service detail extremely nervous.

For the past 18 years, Wolfgang has given us all at Spago a family feeling that’s like coming home to your favorite uncle’s place for the best culinary food fantasies.

Wolfgang came from humble beginnings and has worked his way to the top by creating a food mecca in more than five counties and has had as many ‘hits’ as Elvis Presley.

Wolfgang and his culinary team have taken on events such as the Golden Globes, the Oscars, the Governor’s Ball and A-List celebrity soirees where organizers want the master they call ‘Puck’.

My link with Wolfgang goes back more than 25 years. When I had my own restaurants in Sydney, Wolfgang would kindly fax, (yes, we had faxes those days) his WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

by Joey Sulfaro

aka Mr Caffé Shakerato cookbook treats with his famous Smoked Salmon Pizza and other recipes to an unknown chef in Australia, and they would hit the streets of Sydney. I can still remember a customer coming in and seeing ‘WORLD FAMOUS’ Pizza with House Cured Smoked Salmon, Dill Crème Fraiche with Salmon Caviar on the menu and saying to me, “Have you gone mad!”

My dining at Spago has always been a sexy experience, right from the minute I arrive with the greeting from the hostess, Maria, who is the true darling of the show. She whisks me to my favorite table and chats to me as if I only saw her yesterday.

So the food journey begins with a Prosecco and must haves Tuna Tartare Miso Cones and the decadent world famous Wolfgang Puck Salmon Pizza with Caviar. My longtime friend, managing partner and chef, Lee Hefter, is in a class of his own when it comes to food.

This Jersey ‘bad boy’ understands that great fresh produce and passion is the key to food with flavor.

Lee is a pit-bull in the kitchen and has the runs on the board

“Wolfgang and his culinary team have taken on events such as the Golden Globes, the Oscars, the Governor’s Ball and A-List celebrity soirees where organizers want the master they call Puck”

to show for it, he works with the Spago group and all of Wolfgang’s operations worldwide. He sat with me to chat and go over old times and has a Houdini way of waving his hands to the kitchen to make food appear at your table.

After my Miso cones (you will all know by now that I rate everything by the Heidi Klum scale of sexiness) were absolutely a ‘10’, as was the Salmon Caviar Pizza, (which I was even craving the night before I even went to Spago).

Next arrives the silkiest, sexiest, Agnolotti with French black truffles that just blew that Heidi Klum scale out of the water!

The magic was not over yet as the Spago sweet sensations started flowing. Out came my favorite, the plate of homemade cookies with warm soft centres and just enough crunchy white and dark chocolate bites of heaven.

After another smashing day at what I call ‘the office’, and might I say, as I am sipping my cafe shakerato, it’s a definitely a ‘9.5’ on the Heidi Klum scale of things; I turn to Lee and smile, “Mate, I just wonder what the rest of the world is doing right now as I am as happy as a kobe cow!”

Spago - Beverly Hills, CA, USA Ambience = 8 Service = 8.5 Food = 9 Shakerato = 9.5 Cost = $$$

Joey Sulfaro is a Sydney and Beverly Hills based foodie and celebrity manager. www.satelliteagency.com WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

PRODIJEE’S KRYSTLE MCGILL JOINED HOLLYWOOD SUPERSTAR MATT DAMON AND CO-STAR SHARLTO COPLEY IN SYDNEY FOR THE AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE OF ELYSIUM.

Sharlto Copley.

CELEBRITIES AND STARS walked the red (black) carpet at Event Cinemas in Sydney for the Australian premier of Elysium.

Special guests were star of the movie, Matt Damon, South African co-star Sharlto Copley and Tanit Phoenix. Other celebrities attending the premier were actors Dan Ewing, Damian Walshe- Howling, Tasneem Roc and Ella Bowman, director George Miller, cricketing great Glenn McGrath, singers Kiyomi Vella and Rob Mills and models Nikki Phillips and Samantha Harris.

Elysium is director, Neil Blomkamp’s, second blockbuster after his much acclaimed District 9, which also starred Copley (as the misguided official who transforms into one of the ‘prawns’). Elysium debuted at the top of the US box office with a $30.5m opening weekend.

The movie is set in the year 2159 where two classes of people exist - the wealthy, who live on a pristine man-made space station – Elysium, and the ‘rest’ who live on Earth, that is overpopulated and ruined. Max (Matt Damon) agrees to take on the mission of bringing equality to the polarized worlds, but his fight is against a government official, Secretary Rhodes (Jodie Foster) who will stop at nothing to enforce the laws and preserve the luxurious lifestyle of Elysium.

Krystle McGill spoke to some of the stars and celebrities at the premier.

To view her interviews go to: http://www.satellite.com.au/media.html

Matt Damon with Krystle McGill.

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Actor, Lincoln Younes.

AGT judge, Timomatic.

Enjoy responsibly

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i r ie n a r t s l a r e h ip r the pe A

s always, travelling in Asia has its many highs and lows, but as usual, time is of the essence, and foraging for one of my favourite dishes is the be-all-and-end-all… well nearly!

I’m on the hunt for pho-beef noodle soup. Why you might ask?

Well as I eat this medicinal, tasty, power house of a dish so regularly at home - and drive great distances for it (even the Vietnamese in Sydney recognize Pho An Bankstown as an institution), I wish to source a truly local perspective in the homeland.

Now like any national dish, variation amongst regions is inevitable, from Hanoi in the north, to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, but this trip my focus is around the streets of HCMC - formerly Saigon.

The streets are steaming in the haze of a half moon after a brief shower, not strong enough to satisfy character Travis Bickle from the movie Taxi Driver, but still cleansing.

The scent of fumes, freshly baked bread, and coriander are present as I stroll amongst the throng of determined locals going about their business. I’m off to a tourist bar Apocalypse Now - for an overpriced beer in preparation for an appetite of exploration.

Pho is generally considered a breakfast dish, but is eaten daylong, and daylong I shall endeavor to consume it. Yep breakfast, lunch, and dinner until I decide to enjoy the French influence (they colonized it for more than 50 years). Now after a few ‘ba-ba-ba’s’- local beer 333, I need a stomach lining pho.

Spoilt for choice, there are small restaurants and mobile street vendors everywhere, so I decide to eat with the locals, finding myself sitting on a small stool curbside, cradling a bowl of pho ga. A brief

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by Michael Bongiorno

lapse in concentration here, as this is with chicken, and also tasty, but I did say bo (with beef), or maybe in my excited famished state I simply said pho! Oh well, just means I should enjoy another beverage and a meal stop later.

The next morning at my hotel’s restaurant, breakfast is either western or eastern. Yep, pho for me, and the chef at the station takes a bowl with some blanched noodle, adds some sprouts, onion, basil,

and a ladle of broth, then adds some thinly sliced beef, which I then squeeze a quadrant of lime in.

Voila I’m happy, a great start to the day.

Now off to the Cu Chi tunnels, a network of connecting underground tunnels, used during the French occupation and Vietnam War (the Vietnamese refer to this as the American War, or Reunification War).The tunnels are located about 1.5 hours out of the city, but I do suggest giving this a miss if you are claustrophobic as they are tight in sections. Nearby one can fire weapons, and hmm… there’s food stalls, and I feel I’m due for a bowl of pho!

Back to the city and I am off for a quick bout of shopping at Ben Tranh market, where everything is on offer- even food, so another bowl of pho (though I left the

“After walking to the War Remnants Museum, and climbing a tank, I feel the need to reward my tootsies with a foot massage; cheap and relaxing”

WITH RIELY SAVILLE

noodles!). After walking to the War Remnants Museum, and climbing a tank, I feel the need to reward my tootsies with a foot massage; cheap and relaxing.

It’s evening and enjoying a beverage on the hotel rooftop bar/ restaurant at Hotel Rex is a must, exuding an old world charm, with a great perspective of the city. Back on the street, the bustle has not diminished and again I enjoy a street vendor’s broth.

Breakfast is ‘groundhog day’, and a lazy day is spent enjoying the sights by cyclo pedicab. My driver pedals furiously through the traffic, and I’m sure this level of fitness is only attained through a diet of pho!

By dinner I am finally ready to forgo pho for some French cuisine. Camargue is a memorable

experience, the poached lobster tail, and suckling pig is cooked to perfection, matched with French wine. Having broken the mould, I’m sure one of the first meals on returning home will be pho-power to the broth!

Michael Bongiorno is a Sydneybased writer and entertainer.

HOW TO GET THERE: -Fly into Tan Son Nhat Airport HCMC. WHERE TO STAY: -Majestic Hotel Saigon 1 Dong Khoi Street, District 1 HCMC -Rex Hotel Saigon 141 Nguyen Hue Boulevard,District 1 -Huong Sen Hotel 66-70 Dong Khoi Street District 1 HCMC WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

roadtest

WORDS: MATTHEW WREN

FEATURE-PACKED COOLPIX S6500 ALLOWS A GREAT DEGREE OF IN-CAMERA FLEXIBILITY FIRST AND FOREMOST, the people who will be buying this camera are part of the point and shoot brigade, and also have an eye for style. And this is indeed a very stylish camera, particularly in red as tested. It sits very nicely in the hand, and all the controls are pretty much exactly where you’d expect them to be. Fortunately, this is a common theme across the Nikon range, making it easy for photographers to feel familiar with the brand, no matter which model they pick up.

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This camera has features like built in Wi Fi which, to the writer’s mind, are inexcusable omissions in their higher model lineup such as the D600, D7000, D800 and the (approx) $7,000 D4. Indeed, the little dongle to make the aforementioned cameras perform WiFi tasks costs more than the S6500.

So, it’s a bargain right? Well, yes. There are an extraordinary amount of scene modes to choose from, 21 by my reckoning. I’d list them all, but it’d make for boring

reading – suffice to say they have a mode called ‘pet portrait’ which, as the name suggests, is meant to be used to shoot the family dog or cat (I don’t think it would work on a snake).

What I did find baffling however was there was no mode for taking pictures of people in a nightclub/ dimly lit venue. I was testing this camera at a fashion parade, and wanted to take some crowd photos. This means that the subject must be well illuminated by flash, have a good depth of field for

when there is more than one person in the picture and high ISO, so that at least a little bit of the background is exposed.

None of the scene modes would accomplish this feat – but when I put the camera in auto scene mode – it did the job perfectly.

This led me to just ‘leave it in auto to get the job done’ and for most instances, it works a treat.

The rest of my photos from the night turned out well, even with no people in them. This is noteworthy, as the camera can detect faces – and automatically sets faces as a priority with respect to exposure and focus. A boon for those who simply want to point, and shoot.

But what happens when you want to get creative? Well, they thought of that too. The Nikon

will do in camera editing, and it’s non-destructive as you can have the original file saved away, and then edit a new copy – right there in camera.

With this feature, you can go to simple modes like cropping a photo – but you can also do advanced things like skin retouching and glamour lighting.

These features work... to a point.

It’s much better to edit on your computer though, even with a free program like Gimp or Paint.NET you’ll achieve better results.

So what happens when you do play around with some of the shooting modes? Well, there’s quite a lot to be impressed by. Macro mode is very good, particularly when combined with black and white. This photo of a leaf was made very close, and you can see a lot of intricate detail here.

The black and white mode was also great for candid street photography, as it provides a large tonal range and looks quite film like. Another added bonus for candid photography is you can turn off the shutter sound, there is no shutter of course so it’s a simple menu option. This leads to some truly candid captures, as I managed outside a cafe.

This would not be possible with a clunky SLR, as it’s more difficult to hide, and makes an audible clunk every time the shutter moves.

Another great feature is the inbuilt stitching mode, which allows you to create broad panoramas in camera.

The mode is really intuitive and easy to use, and there’s on screen prompts all the way through. This photo was done from a balcony of an evening – you’ll note that the sky is all one color, meaning that the camera has compensated automatically for the dark and light parts of the photo. It’s a very cool PRODIJEE.COM

“So what happens when you do play around with some of the shooting modes?

Well, there’s quite a lot to be impressed by” and welcome addition.

So, what does that leave when you want to get creative? Well, the exposure compensation works an absolute treat, allowing you 3 stops of adjustment in either direction. This means you can silhouette a sunset shot really easily, or overexpose to create a washed out feel.

Overall, the Nikon is a very good, 12MP camera that allows a great degree of in camera flexibility – with the added bonus of WiFi – which allows you to connect to almost any device to begin uploading pictures immediately to social media or servers anywhere in the world. It also means you never have to plug the computer into the camera, so that’s one less cable you need to remember.

Video mode is also excellent, allowing HD movies to be recorded, though audio is not the best, due to the limitations of the built in microphones – though it is in stereo.

For social occasions, it’s perfectly fine though. The effective focal length of 25mm to 300mm is more than enough to cover pretty much any situation, and built in vibration reduction also helps when you’ve zoomed in for far away subjects. Ten frames a second is also great for sports shooting, as it will also track subjects, ensuring a crisply focused photo.

All this from a camera which fits easily into your pocket with the lens retracted, and with built in WiFi – it’s a winner. RATING: 8/10 PRODIJEE.COM

Nikon Coolpix S6500 • 7.5 cm (3-in.) high-resolution 460k-dot (approx.) LCD with touch screen control.

• EXPEED C2 image-processing engine 12x optical zoom. NIKKOR ED glass lens.

25mm to super-telephoto 300mm coverage.

• Intelligent Auto Focus.

• Built-in Wi-Fi compatibility. Instantly transfer photos and movies from the S6500 to other smart devices via the Wireless Mobile Adaptor Utility app available as a free download from Google Play or App Store.

• Quick Effects. In camera editing for simple image adjustment and enhancement.

• Full HD 1080p movie recording with optical zoom and stereo sound • Price: $199.95 - www.teds.com.au

PRODIJEE.COM

PAMPER YOUR POOCH WITH SOME DELICIOUS DESIGNER DOGGIE ACCESSORIES

S

pring has sprung, and while a lot of us are primping and preening for fashion and racing events, we need to spare a thought for our four legged furbabies. We aren’t the only ones who have suffered through a cold and bleak winter, they have too, and for many of them, they have suffered outdoors.

When those adoring eyes stare at you, do you feel guilty? Do you feel that you are leaving them out of your life while you are heading out the door? Do you promise to throw the ball or give them that extra special pat when you get home?

But of course, your plans change, you get home late and your furbaby doesn’t get that little bit of extra attention you promised.

It’s time to stand up and be accountable for our four legged

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friends, their love is unconditional the very least we can do is show them some special attention and care. All they want is to be loved and to be a part of our lives (oh, and dinner of course!)

Have you ever thought about adapting some of your social events so that they revolve around your pets. Have you ever thought that, instead of going to that boring fashion event, the one where everyone sits on their mobile phones using Twitter, Facebook and Instagram that just maybe, you could be ‘involved’ in a fashion event? Run your own canine fashion event? Invite all your friends with socially adaptable dogs, to an Annual Canine Fashion Show run by you? What about the races? I highly doubt there are any race tracks that would allow you to bring your dog,

but, maybe instead of going to the races this year, run your own canine event where you and your friends take your dogs out to a park and let them run and run with you?

Not only can we involve our pets in our lifestyles, we can do it in style!

Kaylo Luxury Pet Boutique was founded in 2012 by a team of pet lovers. “We wanted to fill a gap in the Australian market by introducing new and exciting international designers of luxurious pet accessories,” said Christina Marrama, the brains behind Kaylo.

“We love and adore our furbabies so much that we want only the finest for them, we have searched the globe and personally hand-picked an exclusive range of luxury items that will blend beautifully with the home decor and complement your personal style.”

Situated in Sydney, Australia, their goal is to bring your pets the joy and happiness they deserve. Their range caters for both our canine and feline friends and includes collars, leads, couture, lounges, play toys, spa products, and of course there are products to help you when your furry friend hasn’t been on their best behaviour.

They also have accessories for specifically tailored special events, such as the growing trend of people involving their dogs in weddings with

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a Swarovski crystal encrusted collar.

Taking a road trip with your furry loved ones means special considerations. He or she may not need an iPad packed with their favourite movies (or maybe they do…) but you still need to make sure your dog is secure in the car and comfortable. They also, like us, need restroom breaks and fresh air throughout the journey, especially a long one. Make sure you give your dog some exercise before getting him into the car for a long drive so he won’t cause too much of a ruckus in the back.

And when you arrive at your destination, you without doubt want them to feel like they’re getting a holiday too.

There are many countries that now cater for our pets with more and more pet friendly hotels opening up, many stores (particularly in USA) are pet friendly, and also some airlines are now allowing you to travel with small dogs. Recently Virgin Australia PRODIJEE.COM

announced that it was introducing a frequent flyer programme for pets – and when you consider that the airline flies almost 30,000 pets around the country each year, it makes sense.

For those of us who truly consider our pets to be part of our family, going on holiday without them can feel almost the same as leaving your husband or wife behind – sometimes the break is nice, but you know you’d actually prefer to have them along. But why shouldn’t your pet travel, shop or play in style too?

“I think all sorts of people dress

their pets to be honest – and we’re not nuts,” said Christina (pictured).

“Some dress their pets for practical reasons – often hairless and older pets are dressed in winter and there are also items such as therapy

jackets for pets with anxiety or aches and pains. And then of course, there are those of us who buy more human inspired fashion for our pets, and for the most part I think it’s because we see our pets as family members, and so we treat them as such. Often the fashion outfits are for special occasions rather than every day wear, but many items of pet fashion clothing still serve a purpose.

“Regardless of what you dress your pet in, just make sure that the clothing isn’t distressing for them and doesn’t restrict its movement and normal functions.

“Most often it’s the smaller breed of dogs that get dressed up - and by that I mean with clothing other than medicinal and practical pieces.

I think as humans we often tend to think little things are cute, and everyone loves a puppy for that reason, so when it comes to little dogs especially, they tend to be dressed up more often than the bigger breeds.

“Smaller dogs also tend to be inside animals, so they’re often more pampered and treated like little furry people, so buying clothing for the small, furry person in your house becomes less of a question and more something you just do.

“If you think about it, there’s actually a long tradition of clothing for animals. It may not be the about town outfits you see on show today, but animals have long been given

clothing. Police sometimes dress their horses in fluorescent covers, the Ancient Greeks used to put leather boots on their horses to protect them etc. So whilst today’s trend of dressing animals in more human-inspired fashion may not have existed for that long, dressing animals has been happening for centuries.

“If the pets match, matching clothing is sometimes the case.

But often people who are close to their pets see their differing personality traits and they dress them accordingly. More often what you’ll find is they’ll dress the pets in similar but not identical outfits - for example, they both may be wearing

striped jumpers but one may be blue and one may be pink. I think often it’s much like a baby and the clothing is to let others know what gender your dog is.”

Whatever your taste is in pet couture, or whatever the reason you dress your pet is, Kaylo has you covered (or more to the point, Kaylo has your pet covered).

The Kaylo team are constantly searching the globe for luxury items in décor, couture and accessories that you are sure to love for your pet. They have brought highend fashion and luxury to the pet market. www.kaylo.com.au

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viva las vegas

I

have to admit that Las Vegas is truly one of the most amazing cities on this planet. It is a city where nothing is natural. With all of its flashing neon, gaudy colors and sheer vibrancy, Vegas can be as tacky as you can get. Fake smiles, fake boobs, fake tans and fake people, yet it is a must-see place and somewhere for people to escape the trials, troubles and tribulations of a world gone crazy.

Las Vegas lives and breathes to entertain; there are no clocks in the casinos and no windows, so you have no idea if it is night or day in the outside world.

Where else would the month of August be solely devoted to an icon – Elvis Presley – who left us 36 years ago? Where else but the Las Vegas Strip can you see males, females and even kids wearing jumpsuits and sideburns and not blink an eye.

There are wedding chapels where you can be married by ordained ministers dressed to the hilt in jumpsuits and fake, mile-high pompadour wigs, driven to your honeymoon hotel in an open top pink Cadillac, and escorted to your room by female employees dressed as Las Vegas showgirls, showing all their fine glory.

This month in honor of the man who shook this town to its foundations I took a nostalgic trip back to where he started it all, the former International hotel, renamed the Las Vegas Hilton in the early’70’s and now known as LVH. I have no idea what brainiac came up with that name but can only assume he has been sent back to Bumfield Missouri where his talents belong. The Las Vegas Hilton was the first major hotel built off the strip and the first to have a showroom seating more than 2000 patrons.

Prior to this, the main showrooms WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

by Jon Palmieri

would seat an average 600 people.

I saw Elvis in concert in 1971 and 1972 when he performed two shows a night. The dinner show was for the sedate oldies and the electric midnight show was when he exploded on stage. All of this for $15 and that included a three course meal.

Did I mention that the line-up for the show started four hours before show time, wound around the casino slots and when you finally arrived at the showroom doors you had to

tip the Maître‘d for a good seat, even if you had booked months in advance. My first time there I tipped the guy $40 and got halfway to the front. When I told him I came all the way from Australia and wanted to be seated in the front booths, he nonchalantly told me $200 would get me close to the King. Mind you, that amount in 1971 would be the equivalent of $2000 today.

How easy was it to meet Elvis? I was lined up for one show and in front of me was a Priscilla look-alike, black beehive hairdo, dressed in tight white pants, see through top and a body to die for. It wasn’t long before Elvis’ guitar player, John Wilkinson, came over introduced himself and invited her to meet Elvis after the show. When I said to John, “How about me and my date”, he checked us out, shook my hand and said, “Enjoy the show”. R.I.P John, I know you are up in heaven still

“A bullet just missed Joe Esposito’s girlfriend, who was seated on the commode when Elvis let loose with some shooting practice in the room”

getting the babes for Elvis.

Fast forward to 2013 and we met up with Elvis’ former foreman of the Memphis Mafia, Joe Esposito, who had organized a three-day Elvis fest for the fans. Joe conducted tours of the backstage areas, the Elvis dressing room (still in use) and a tour of what was his suite on the 30th floor. Plus he entertained us with stories of being with Elvis and the weird things they did.

When the construction people refurbished the suite they found bullet holes in the walls, one of which he said just missed his girlfriend, Linda Thompson, who was seated on the commode when Elvis let loose with some shooting practice

in the room. These days they have demolished the suite and replaced it with the ultra-tacky Sky Villas, reserved for the high rollers only.

The rest of the three-days was filled with meeting former members of his back up gospel groups, memorabilia, numerous Elvis tribute artists - good, bad and indifferent - performing. Let’s leave that part alone. Johnny Carson once said that Elvis should still be alive and the tribute artists the ones who died. The only saving grace in all this madness was Peter Frampton and BB King performing in the showroom for the first time ever.

While on the subject of the LVH, keen observers will note that the

Willard Whyte building in the movie “Diamonds are Forever” was in fact the LVH, and all those desert scenes were shot just a few miles out of town.

Jon Palmieri is a Las Vegas nightlife identity and man about town.

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KNOWN AS THE WORLD’S BEST PIZZA MAKER, SYDNEY MASTER CHEF JOHN LANZAFAME HAS COOKED FOR ROYALTY, WORLD LEADERS AND THE RICH AND FAMOUS.

I

f you have ever been to Sicily you know the love those Sicilians generate in their conversations; hands flying and passion flowing through their veins, but nothing says more than the taste of some of the most sensational food on earth.

John Lanzafame is Sicily; he has been branded ‘The Pizza Prince’.

His passion and love for the culture and food is a testimonial to the accolades he has won, including winning World’s Best Pizza, Best Pizza Australia, Global Pizza & Pasta Challenge, One World Culinary Iceland and Best Italian Restaurant to name a few.

In recent years, John has owned and been a personal chef in some of Sydney’s exclusive restaurants, such as Hugo’s, Bilson’s and Ritz Carlton. Restaurants at Star City Casino and his very own signature restaurant, Lanzafame Sydney, are

where John took Italian food and kicked it up a notch by creating records for the most porcini and truffles consumed in any Sydney restaurant to date.

John’s passion for authentic Italian tastes sent shock waves through the culinary circles when he worked his culinary magic for the Princess Mary of Denmark; former Australian prime minster, Kevin Rudd; Kitchen Nightmare’s Gordon Ramsay; Virgin Tycoon, Richard Branson; music legends, the Rolling Stones and U2’s Bono; comedian Billy Crystal; and tennis champions, Andre Agassi and Leyton Hewitt.

People who know John are touched by his charisma, style and passion. He has a heart as big as Texas. John appears regularly on television, such as Master Chef Australia, Pizza, Ready Steady Cook, Mornings, Chefs Christmas, 9am, Fresh Cooking and Sunrise.

John’s savvy style with food has taken the Lanzafame name to achieve more career highlights with his bestseller Cookbook Pizza Modo Mio and second book Family Italian. But why does a chef really share his recipes? “I wanted set in stone my Italian family food heritage, to preserve it for generations to come. It will give my kids something to brag about when I am old and grey,” said John.

Pizza modo mio (pizza my style) is a comprehensive book of traditional and modern pizza recipes from the World’s Best Pizza’ chef himself.

From standard pizzas to kids’ pizzas, calzone and foot-longs, John has the pizza world covered.

Covering pizza techniques and a variety of bases, sauses and delectable and sometimes unusual toppings – many of which John is known and loved for – Pizza modo mio is the perfect pizza cook’s

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companion.

Family Italian – is where John shares his intimate knowledge of the way Italians really like to eat and entertain in a book encompassing all aspects of Italian home cooking.

From his homemade antipasti and his mother’s fresh pasta recipe to rustic slow-cooked hotpots, lovingly stirred risottos, family favorites’ from the grill, simple breads, hearty salads and, of course, a little something sweet (think doughnuts hot from the pan or John’s ultimate tiramisu), there is something for everyone. Family Italian contains simple recipes for real food packed with flavour, and is a must for every lover of hearty Italian food.

Pizza modo mio and Family Italian are available through Amazon and book stores around Australia.

Krystle McGill chats to John Lanzafame: www.satellite.com.au/media.html

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“I wanted set in stone my Italian family food heritage, to preserve it for generations to come�

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reality bites I

got the results of my recent blood tests on Thursday. It turns out I’m not, bio chemically speaking at least, menopausal yet - despite hot flashes, lethargy and longing looks at hormone replacement ads.

On Saturday, I got my period for the first time in months. Thus, I remain in Perimenopause; a transition that can last anywhere from a few months to a decade while one’s ovaries slow down and then finally call it quits. Once the ovaries have ceased estrogen production completely, that’s Menopause. It officially starts a year after your final menstrual period.

Perimenopause, ‘around the time of menopause’ per the Greek roots of the word: peri meaning ‘around the time of,’ men ‘month’ and pausis ‘to cease,’ is a trying transition.

A writing teacher, who I would love to name were that memory allowed, once said that great writers are renowned for their transitions.

What about women? Are we to be judged on how we transition between phases of life? I hope not because I don’t think I’m handling this transition with anything resembling ‘peri’ grace.

While my hormones continue their death spiral, they wreak havoc on another part of my body. And this transition is also trying. I am going from straight hair back to my naturally curly top. For a couple of years, I indulged in Brazilian Blowouts and Keratin treatments that left me looking more coiffed but which have taken a heavy toll on my tresses and thus I have stopped.

“Hair is like skin in that, lack of moisture is the main cause of aging,” said Nelson j of the eponymously named Beverly Hills salon, which just launched a new line of hair care products. “Hair WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

by Amy Sommer

that is exposed to heat styling and chemical processes, like hair color and straightening, can become extremely dry and damaged.” My hair is dry. Very dry, which explains the following dialogue with my husband, which I swear is verbatim.

“Does my hair look curly?” I asked after slathering coconut oil in it and keeping it lubricated for two ‘hair-up-in a-bun’ days. “No. But it looks fluffy. Fluffy is good, right?”

my husband replied. You can see why I turned to Nelson j’s argan oil infused products, right? Fluffy is not in fact good.

“Moisturizing your hair is essential in order to keep it manageable, healthy and youthful. Normal hair treatments restore moisture to the hair only temporarily because most shampoos are too harsh, they open the hair cuticle as they clean, thus causing moisture loss every time you shampoo,” Nelson continued.

This explains why spending two days smelling like a tropical vacation left my hair merely fluffy after I washed the Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil out. Sigh. “That is why I developed Nelson j Beverly Hills Argan Oil 7 hair care line: to keep hair cuticles closed while washing it with my specially formulated shampoo, and thus allowing the conditioners to

“Does my hair look curly?” I asked after slathering coconut oil in it and keeping it lubricated for two ‘hair-up-in a-bun’ days. “No. But it looks fluffy. Fluffy is good, right?” my husband replied. Fluffy is not, in fact, good” restore maximum moisture to hair on a more long term basis.”

Youth apparently is found in a fountain… of water and various products.

“Your hair just needs a little love,” said the ever-optimistic Adrienne Florez, who has shorn, straightened and colored my locks across a spectrum of styles from auburn to

blonde, short and curly to long and straight. By love she means time and, naturally, moisture. “I put in a few layers so that your natural curl can express itself but it will take a little time as curly hair tends to be dryer than straight and yours is… well… thirsty.”

The budget-respectful Florez suggested I start in my kitchen with the coconut oil but as my discussion with my husband suggests, that didn’t work. So, I went for pricier option Florez recommended; an argan infused healing mask, which I found in the form of The Nelson j Moisture Healing Mask, a100 per cent argan-oil based, deep conditioning treatment that is in my hair as I type.

So while the argan oil is hopefully working its magic on my hair, there is my dry, newly eczema-plagued skin. It too needs some ‘love.’

“There is no such thing as an ugly woman – only a gal who doesn’t know or hasn’t tried to improve herself using the tools available today,” said Nurse Jamie, aka Jamie Sherrill, RN (right), of the eponymous Age Defense product line, which includes an innovative skin stamp. The skin stamp is made of minuscule needles which, when pressed against the surface of the skin, create microscopic

perforations allowing whatever product you’re using to get into the lower levels of the dermis so that it is more effective.

“You can buy the best product in the world but unless it gets where it’s needed, it’s not going to have the effect that the ingredients within it promise,” Sherrill said.

In addition, stamping also forces the skin to repair itself.

Skin stamping in combination with the EGF Stem Cell Repair Moisturizing serum, with which it is sold, fuels the production of skin cells and thus helps skin repair fine lines, acne scars and sun damage providing an overall tightening and smoothing effect.

After two weeks using the combination I don’t look 30 again – but I do look like I’ve taken a little vacation, which is worth the $160 price tag (especially as I still have product left and the stamp will last for a while, presuming it’s well maintained).

So, there is hope for my skin and hair. There are oils, stamps common sense diet changes, regular exercise, sun-phobia and water, all of us have to drink lots and lots of water.

And, there is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to address what ails me underneath my hair and skin, which I discussed at length in an earlier incarnation of

this piece but because of conflicting studies and general controversy about the subject matter, discussion of it made this column just too darn long. Maybe I’ll figure the whole thing out in time for my next column but don’t hold your breath.

In the meantime, I am off to wash out my hair mask and stamp product into my skin in the hope that old age’s burning and ravaging won’t be so obvious on my exterior at the close of day.

Amy Sommer is a Los Angeles-based writer. www.PissantProd.com WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

Extraordinary singer, songwriter and axeman, Mark Lizotte - aka Diesel - tells prodijee about his stunning new album, Let It Fly.

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BORN IN FALL RIVER, MASSACHUSETTS, USA, MARK LIZOTTE IMMIGRATED TO AUSTRALIA WITH HIS FAMILY IN NOVEMBER 1971. HE FIRST CAME TO WIDESPREAD ATTENTION 25 YEARS AGO AS THE FRONTMAN OF PERTH BAND, JOHNNY DIESEL AND THE INJECTORS WITHIN A MATTER OF MONTHS THE BAND WAS ON ITS WAY ACROSS THE NULLARBOR, AND HEADING FOR A NATIONAL AUSTRALIAN TOP 3 ALBUM CHART DEBUT. ADOPTING THE NAME DIESEL, MARK EMBARKED ON A SOLO CAREER, WITH TWO OF HIS ALBUMS REACHING NUMBER 1 ON THE AUSTRALIAN RECORDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (ARIA) ALBUMS CHARTS, WITH HEPFIDELITY IN 1992 AND THE LOBBYIST IN 1993. A GIFTED SINGER-SONGWRITER AND GUITARIST, MARK ALSO PLAYS BASS, DRUMS, PERCUSSION AND KEYBOARDS. HIS NEW ABLUM, LET IT FLY, MELDS TOGETHER ALL THE VARIED SIDES OF HIS MUSICAL PERSONALITY AND REVEALS A FEW NEW ONES. THE 5-TIME ARIA WINNER SPOKE TO DARREN HOUSE ABOUT HIS NEW ALBUM TOUR.

YOU HAVE TOURED MANY TIMES AND YOU SAY THAT TOURING IS DIFFERENT EVERY TIME. IS BECAUSE YOU HAVE EVOLVED? As time passes, things change, it just does. Technically, it’s just releasing an album and everything is the same but with a different set of songs, I guess. Maybe it’s just a case of short memory but there is always some element that you haven’t done before.

DOES THAT KEEP IT EXCITING AS WELL? Yeah, it does. The process of making a record is always different.

I don’t think I’ve done any two records in the same way, the same place or the same scenario. It’s just different every time.

IT’S SAID THAT THIS NEW ALBUM REVEALS A NEW SIDE TO YOUR PERSONALITY. DO YOU FEEL THAT? I guess they all do to some degree, different facets come out and you can’t really plan that, I guess you could if you wanted to make a concept type record, but I don’t do that.

DO YOU HAVE ANY THEME AT ALL WHEN YOU START WRITING AN ALBUM OR IS IT JUST A COLLECTION OF SONGS? They are a bit like marbles or stamps that you have collected and you start to notice that there is some simpatico between them, you start feeling like it’s a collection rather than just things by themselves.

So, you start elaborating on it, building it and looking for other things that you can add that are all different but can fill it out. It’s a funny process, there is really no cornerstone that you start with, there is no one really good place to start with it and build it, it’s different every time. This one was probably the most unfocussed, until the last minute, of anything that I have ever done before.

WAS THAT A GOOD THING OR NOT SO GOOD THING? Ultimately it didn’t matter, but along the way it caused me a bit of anguish. Just worrying about the fact that I wasn’t getting the amount

of work done that I would have liked to because other things were coming up in front of me. Other projects and stuff, but ultimately I think it was a good thing to let it breathe a bit.

YOU HAD TIM CHAISSON (A GIFTED PLAYER FROM A LONG LINE OF FOLK MUSICIANS IN EASTERN CANADA) PLAY ON THE RECORD. Yeah, I wanted a different flavour on a few of the tracks. It was really great when Tim came in and played some things that I wouldn’t normally have thought of, I just happened to have the right vehicle, I suppose. It’s silly to get someone to come and put an instrument on a track it just for the sake of it, say ‘hey you play that instrument, just put some of that onto this song’ but in this case the planets lined up.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU KNOWN TIM? Not a long time, no. It was March of last year that we did a recording that is yet to come out, a live thing WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

that we did with Matt Andersen, another artist from Canada. I was introduced to Tim through Matt, I had Matt come in on the recording as well because he was in the country and he said Tim’s Chaisson’s around too, he’s really handy; he plays everything and I said, sure, bring him along, which is a bit of a bludge now I think about it because I’d never even heard him play - but sometimes you get a gut feel and you have to go with it. He’s one of these guys you put a mic in front of and it just pours out. He doesn’t even ask what key the song is in. No preamble, no discussion, he just plays. That’s exactly what I like in the studio.

YOUR DAUGHTER, LILA GOLD, ALSO SANG ON THE RECORD. Yes, she’s singing all over it, she’s on about six or seven of the tracks, I think. Anything that sounds like a female singer, that’s Lila. On If You Let Me Give, I was a little bit more bold in asking her to sing a duet with me. I just threw it out there at the very end, I didn’t put it to her as a duet, I just said, ‘I need some vocals’. I wasn’t sure if she even wanted to sing with me, but she was right into it.

YOU’VE BEEN AROUND A LONG TIME, AND YOU WOULD HAVE SEEN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY CHANGE SO MUCH WITH SOCIAL MEDIA AND MUSIC DOWNLOADS. WHAT’S YOUR VIEW ON WHEN YOU STARTED TO HOW IT IS NOW? In some ways it’s just the same, really. People make music and I don’t see that ever changing. The way it’s being made is a bit more autonomous or cottage than ever before. At least before the industry got really shaped into what it was where studios and labels kind of controlled how records were made. I think it’s really good. It’s an exciting time and you have to embrace it.

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I don’t think any industry stays the same and the vehicles that deliver the art are constantly changing.

THERE’S SOME TALK THAT TODAY’S BANDS AND ARTISTS WON’T HAVE THE LONGEVITY, AS PEOPLE LIKE YOU HAVE HAD. WHAT’S THE SECRET TO LONGEVITY? Just getting out there and playing.

You can’t really expect people to remember you for long, no matter what you have accomplished. It’s really day-to-day, you have to get out there and keep proving yourself, no matter how good you might be or your perception is. You have to get out there and keep making it a reality.

YOU STARTED THE TOUR WITH ‘FANS FIRST’ SHOWS; THAT WAS A LITTLE BIT DIFFERENT? Yeah, it’s a nice way to start, something very comforting. It’s a bit like doing a private gig to your family in the lounge room, there is something comforting about that but there are people who know everything about me, if they are real fans, (and) there is something a bit unnerving about that.

ON YOUR SOLO AND SELECT TOUR, WHAT WAS IT LIKE HAVING THE FANS CHOOSE THE SONGLIST FOR YOU? Interesting, because you would think there would be a lot of the same songs over and over, but definitely not, and different areas yielded different choices. I was really surprised sometimes, in some of the more out of the way places I thought they’re not going to make those less obvious choices, but that was definitely not the case at all.

It was nice to see, that in a lot of cases, the songs that I am very fond of they are very fond of too. It’s kind of comforting, I think.

that I have to keep playing it. My defence mechanism for that is that I keep changing the arrangements or playing the song differently, that keeps it fresh and interesting for me, and my audience don’t seem to mind me doing different versions of it, they just want to hear the song. If I had to play the songs verbatim over and over, it would be a bit like some form of water torture I would think.

First, it would be really hard because I am bad at playing things the same way; I’m just not good at it.

WHEN YOU STARTED OFF AS A MUSICIAN YOU HAD A LOT OF INFLUENCES AND PEOPLE WHO INSPIRED YOU. DECADES DOWN THE TRACK, DO YOU STILL DRAW INSPIRATION FROM PEOPLE LIKE THAT OR HAVE YOU MOVED ON AND DO YOUR OWN THING ANYWAY? In many ways you move on and you start forming your own thing,

but I am still in awe of those artists that I was in awe of when I was 14, I really am. Sometimes I listen to After the Goldrush by Neil Young or something by Jimi Hendrix and it just makes me stop in my tracks.

Some songs just do that to me, whether it be something from 40 years ago or a Lana Del Rey track or some of the great songwriters just emerging now. It’s not necessarily just the good old stuff, equally there is a lot of really good new music that has the same effect on me. It would be a bleak horizon otherwise.

I think the last 10 years will be looked back at as being as good as any decade. The idea of albums maybe went a bit skewiff there for a while but I feel there is a shift back to real albums - people caring about every track that is on the record. To a large degree, the internet and iTunes and all

“I’m happy to play any song of mine. I don’t have any songs that I begrudgingly have to play, thank God. There is not one song that I have put out as a joke and now the joke’s on me that I have to keep playing it”

I WAS INTERESTED THAT EVERYTHING WAS ON THE TABLE. IT SEEMS SOME ARTISTS GET SICK OF PLAYING THEIR EARLIER STUFF, THEY JUST WANT TO CONCENTRATE ON THE NEW STUFF? I’m happy to play any song of mine from any record, really. I don’t have any songs that I begrudgingly have to play, thank God. There is not one song that I have put out as a joke and now the joke’s on me WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

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of that has taken the focus away from the whole album - people aren’t listening to whole albums as much as they used to. The whole phenomena of just a single being picked off (an album) and people listening to the single is nothing new, it’s always been there.

With a mega big album like Neil Young’s Harvest, the average Joe would know Heart of Gold and Old Man but they might not know the rest of the album tracks. It’s human nature to just single things out and not focus on other tracks.

As a child, I grew up listening to every song that was on those albums. I didn’t see any difference between track 1 on side A and track 1 on side B. A lot of my favourite tracks were so-called album tracks.

The thread from song to song meant something; the sequencing.

Whether I realised it or not (at the time), the albums that had a big effect on me had that thread come through - Innervisions, Talking Book, Songs In The Key Of Life - Stevie Wonder albums; Fleetwood Mac Rumours - the sequencing was done in a way that keeps you listening.

So, I guess I’m still clutching to that and I’m not going to pretend that I’m not clutching onto

something. I’m actually doing a production of vinyl for this record.

I’m very nostalgic in that sense but I don’t see any harm in it.

People like vinyl, it sounds great for starters and it’s a great format.

It draws attention when it’s sitting on a table (laughs). It’s hard to get that now with MP3s.

Let It Fly has been released through Liberation Music.

DIESEL LET IT FLY TOUR DATES Friday, Oct 11- THE BASEMENT, Sydney, NSW

Saturday Oct 19 - CHARLES HOTEL, Perth, WA

Saturday, Oct 12 - THE BASEMENT, Sydney, NSW

Sunday Oct 20 - RAVENSWOOD HOTEL, Ravenswood, WA

Thursday Oct 17, FRIENDS RESTAURANT, East Perth, WA (Solo)

Friday Oct 25 - THE GOVERNOR HINDMARSH, Adelaide, SA

Friday Oct 18 - FLY BY NIGHT, Fremantle, WA

Saturday Oct & Sunday Oct 27 - Sydney Blues and Roots Festival shows.

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what’s brewing

WITH JOHN ANTHONY

HAWTHORN BREWING CO. OF HAWTHORN IN VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA (www.hawthornbrewing.com.au)

H

awthorn Brewing produces a range of five beers and on this occasion I wanted to just do the ales, so I availed myself of the following: Premium Pale Ale, Australian IPA and Amber Ale I had promised myself a treat of beverages from the Hawthorn Brewing Co. after having the pleasure of sampling a range of their fine beers at the 2013 Great Australian Beer SpecTAPular.

When attending an event such as GABS and sampling a huge range of magnificent beers in one sitting, it must be a standout selection to make such a lasting impression as did the Hawthorn Brewing Co. There has to be something said about the atmosphere influencing the taste buds as I could barely contain myself in knocking off the heads of these delightful little bottles. I’m blaming the weather!

It was the last day of winter in Melbourne, which means it could have been anything from constant drizzling showers to full torrential downpours, when lo and behold the city of all seasons gave me a beer drinking day! The sun was shining, the sky was blue and after cleaning up the property in preparation for Spring, I felt I had earned this treat.

These beers were to be consumed au natural – no pre dinner, post dinner or any sort of dinner, as I just wanted the full flavours of the beer.

First cab off the rank was the Premium Pale Ale. The colour was true – a lovely clear golden glow (yes, I did pour it into a glass, restraining myself from necking the lot). This also gave me the chance to imbibe those heady and hoppy aromas.

The verdict was that it is a good pale ale with a bit extra, in what I thought was a more prominent

hop taste than other pale ales that spring to mind.

Next victim was the Australian IPA (Indian Pale Ale). I could not really pick the colour difference between the IPA and the Premium. Possibly the IPA is a little lighter but the aromas were definitely switched up a notch on this IPA, which made my taste buds sing in anticipation.

The flavours did not disappoint the pre-excited taste buds as this beer literally danced on my tongue and quenched a thirst that I did not realize I had. This is a great beer by any standards. The tastes are exactly to my liking, fresh, clean, full of flavours and yet somehow light and airy! This one’s a keeper in my book.

Lastly, I was then tossing up whether to include the Amber Ale in this review, or just settle in on polishing off the other five IPAs. Fortunately I decided to follow through with the Amber Ale. This would have to tick all the boxes for me as amber ales are my thing!

The colour did not disappoint, with those lucid amber hues glistened in my glass. The aromas were there as well and I could have picked this one blindfolded.

Finally the taste – WOW! How does a brewery way down in the Southern Hemisphere produce a true English style Amber Ale with such finesse and style? I could taste those beautiful roasted malts and distinctive English hops in every mouthful.

This is a world class beer that I hope Hawthorn Brewing Co. has a chance to bring to the whole world.

In summing up, three great ales from a great brewer that we can all be proud to call Australian – Congratulations to all the crew at the Hawthorn Brewing Co.

As usual, if anyone has an unusual (or usual for that matter) beer request or believe their favourite drop should be given a bit of credit contact me at johnanthony@prodijee.com WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

t s li ia c a f h c n e r f e th T

he ‘beautiful people’ - an expression created during the 60s - illustrates that, in our society, being seen as attractive has its advantages: “Not only it is believed that physically attractive individuals possess more desirable personal traits, such as greater warmth, intelligence, and dominance, but they are offered assistance more readily, secure jobs, and generally wield more influence than their less attractive counterparts”.

In recent times, the explosion of celebrity culture and access to less invasive cosmetic technologies and procedures, such as laser and Botox treatments, have contributed to more and more people seeking to improve their appearance through cosmetic intervention. According to IBISWorld, in Australia alone, the cosmetic surgery industry revenue is estimated to grow by an annualised 5.3 per cent over 2012-13 to reach $788.8m.

Whilst we all have experienced the positive impact grooming and taking care of our physical appearance can have on the way we feel about ourselves, we must ask, ‘how much cosmetic improvement is too much?’ With images of ‘plastic’ celebrities displayed everywhere, it is easy to lose the concept of reality.

Studies have found that five to 15 per cent of patients who seek cosmetic surgical or dermatological treatments suffer from body dysmorphic disorders. Body dysmorphic disorder is characterised by a fixation with an imaginary - or minor - defect in appearance, and it is associated with a severe distress and impairment in functioning.

A high degree of comorbidity is chronic, similar to anorexics WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

by Christine Clais

who see themselves as fat; body dysmorphic disorder sufferers will never be satisfied with the way they look. Regardless of the amount of cosmetic procedures that they will undergo, they will always focus on their perceived (and often nonexistent) physical imperfections.

In his book, Beauty Junkies: inside our $15 billion obsession with cosmetic surgery, Alex Kuczynski states: “No matter how

many antioxidants we swallow or Botox shots we get, we live in a constant state of disintegration. In an era in which we aspire to the constant upgrade, we upgrade our houses, cars, breasts, we

“Whilst we all have experienced the positive impact grooming and taking care of our physical appearance can have on the way we feel about ourselves, how much cosmetic improvement is too much?”

inhabit physical machines that are insistently downgrading all the time”.

So, perhaps, we should stop adhering to the myth of the physically perfect man or woman, accept that ageing is inevitable, and stop looking at our bodies as being central to our true sense of selfidentity. Perhaps, we should work more on self-acceptance and get to a point where we truly like who we are, regardless of our physical flaws.

There are many varieties of bodyawareness modalities, all helpful in leading to self-acceptance, including breath work, tai chi, yoga and mindfulness techniques. I particularly find the following to be very effective: • Exercising “ESC” (extreme selfcare, as my friend Cindy calls it!): Pay close and loving attention to yourself and make a commitment to your health and wellbeing (this includes spending quality time with yourself, listening to your body and giving up on perfectionism!).

• Affirmation: One simple thing that you can do daily is this: stand naked in front of your mirror, close your eyes for a few seconds, take several deep breaths, open your eyes, look at yourself clearly and, with equanimity and compassion, tell yourself out loud several times: “I deeply and completely love and accept myself.”

Christine Clais is a Frenchborn skin expert, award-winning facialist, educator and the author of Transform your skin without a needle, available on the author’s website for AUD $24.95 Go to link: www.thefrenchfacialist.com/ www.thefrenchfacialist.com WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

STRIVING TO PROMOTE A ‘BE ALL YOU CAN BE’ ATTITUDE TO YOUNG AUSTRALIANS THROUGH SONG, NAOMI WENITONG IS A PROFOUND VOICE IN CONTEMPORARY AUSTRALIAN MUSIC. WITH A STORY AS INSPIRATIONAL AS IT IS UNIQUE, HER PASSION, RESILIENCE AND EXCEPTIONAL MUSICAL ABILITY HAVE FUELLED HER JOURNEY FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO THE WORLD STAGE. BORN IN CAIRNS TO A LARGE FAMILY BELONGING TO THE KABBI KABBI PEOPLE OF SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND, NAOMI SURVIVED AN HORRIFIC CAR ACCIDENT WHERE SHE WAS PRESUMED DEAD AT THE SCENE. SHE THEN FORMED HIP HOP GROUP, THE LAST KINECTION, AND HOSTS NITV’S DANCE PROGRAM MOVE IT MOBSTYLE.

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ife changes quickly, but in the space of one week, one of Australia’s stars, Naomi Wenitong, went from top selling recording artist, to hip hop artist, to being pronounced dead.

Naomi’s brother was driving when the accident happened and she considers herself lucky that she couldn’t see the aftermath. He said she had bones hanging out of her leg, her jaw was broken, and it was like a horror movie. “I can’t remember any of it, but I woke up in rehab and couldn’t remember anything, it was full on. I’m good now, but I had been pronounced dead on the scene. I had been covered up with a tarp”, said Naomi.

Being shy, as a child Naomi struggled to even sing in front of her parents but knowing that music was going to be her life, she plucked up courage. “I sat them both down and I said ‘don’t say anything until I finish the whole thing, okay?’

With my parents, education is the biggest thing; it’s the foundation of your future. My dad studied to be a doctor and was really adamant about us going to school. So, when

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I planned on telling them that I wanted to drop out of school in year 10 and study music, I knew they wouldn’t be happy. But I did ask them, I said, ‘I am going to sing you this song that I wrote and if you think I should follow this dream,

then I will do it. If you don’t endorse it, then I won’t. I will stay in school and do whatever’.

Naomi played her parents the

song, and they were with her all the way, though her father did offer some words of caution. “My father said, ‘you are black and you are a woman, you want to rap and sing; you are going to have to work ten times harder than anyone else. If you are prepared to work your arse off, I’ll support you all the way.’ It was so good to have that support from my parents. The reality of what he said was true, I knew all of that.

I was prepared for anything that life might have thrown at me. I was really lucky to have such supportive parents. If my parents hadn’t backed me up, I have no idea what I would be doing now. It was really important that they had my back.”

By age 16, Naomi and her family had left their hometown of Cairns and moved to Newcastle for her father to study medicine, but pressures caused problems for the family and her parents split. Having suffered through racism and bigotry in Newcastle, Naomi was more than happy to move back to Cairns with her mother, leaving her brothers and father behind.

“It was hard. I was the youngest and I had always had my big

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brothers around, but my sister was with me; she was my best friend. It was during that year that I started writing songs; there were so many things going on for me, emotionally, with my parents’ divorce, and not knowing where my place was in the world. You get all ‘deep’ when you are that age. Music was my outlet.”

To further her career, Naomi enrolled in a TAFE (Technical and Further Education) music course.

“That course was so good, full on – the assessments were actual performances at festivals. You had to get up and perform. They would put you in a group with people that were very different to you, to teach you how to collaborate and work together. It was a really good learning experience. I was only 16, I was the youngest, nobody took me PRODIJEE.COM

seriously, and some people thought that I was just there to bludge.

People thought I was a joke, and then I met Simone (Stacey).

“I started to learn that you needed to have experience to get a job, but how can you get experience if you can’t get a job? My dad had told me of a studio that had just opened where you could learn and do backup vocals for different artists (and) I talked Simone into doing that with me.”

The studio manager, Reno, liked their music so much he said that they shouldn’t bother singing backup, he wanted them to record their own music right from the start.

It was 2001 and Naomi and Simone would record whenever they could; they couldn’t believe that they were recording their own

songs. Adopting the name Shakaya, the pair put together their first album and then went with Reno to audition for Sony in Sydney.

Going to Sony was an adventure, Naomi had never been on a plane so that in itself was exciting, but she knew that auditioning for the Sony executives wasn’t going to be easy. “I said to Simone, ‘we have 15 minutes to show them why they should sign us. Let’s just go in and have fun, the worst that can happen is that we can go home and be no different to what we are now.’

So, we did our performance, then they all left the room for about 5 minutes, when they came back, they said, ‘yep, you have a deal’. I was very cool on the outside, but on the inside I was in absolute shock.”

In fact, so impressed were the execs that they approved songs that been recorded prior to their audition to form the album, meaning Naomi and Simone could control of their creative process.

Shakaya shot to stardom in 2002 with the release of their first song Stop Calling Me, which had been written and recorded in just a couple of hours. “I would have been happy to be in the top 100 in the charts, I never even thought about being Number 1, but that song climbed to number 5 on the ARIA charts,” said Naomi. “That was absolutely unbelievable, it went platinum. It was the first single we ever did, it was really trippy. It was so cool that it had been only us, Reno did the beat and we did the lyrics. Sony had no involvement in the creative part of it at all.” Other hit singles followed, including Sublime and Cinderella.

Reno took the girls to Orlando, FL, USA for training; he knew that they had no idea how fast it was all going to happen from that point.

Naomi was still very young and had very little self-confidence. She struggled dancing in front of mirrors and found it very confronting when she was asked to dance ‘sexy’. Reno noticed that Naomi wasn’t comfortable in this role and when he realized it was her lack

“I thought, ‘man, my life is already hard, why do I have to go through this’. I already had a lot of things I had to do and a lot of barriers I had to break down. I got really morbid and I went to a dark place.” of confidence, he said, “you are fu**ing good man, that’s the whole reason you are here and you should be embarrassed not to be on stage, you shouldn’t be embarrassed to be up there.”

“I had never even thought of it like that, I had just been getting embarrassed and not being confident doing what I love,” said

Naomi. “It was a really big learning experience for me; it just changed the way that I had been thinking.

You have to make sure you don’t stop doing something you love because you are scared of what other people might think. I then had that mindset of loving music and loving writing songs so bad, that it outweighed any insecurity that WWW.PRODIJEE.COM PRODIJEE.COM

I had. I had to do this, I couldn’t give up, I had to get up there or I wouldn’t have been me, so I had to deal with it.”

Shakaya also supported a lot of big artists, such as Usher and Destiny’s Child. “We got to hang out with so many different people and watching them perform was a huge learning experience. It doesn’t matter how professional you are or how long you have been doing it, you will always be learning. If you want to be a master of any craft and don’t know that you can always keep learning, then that will be your downfall. There is no way you can learn that from a book. You have to do it, you have to experience it and learn it. Everything that I have learnt in the past has all got me to where I am now. Everything that I learnt from all those different things has come out in my everyday life.”

Shakaya came to an end when Sony wanted the girls to start singing other people’s songs, but the whole reason Naomi had gone into the industry was to pursue her love of song writing.

“For me, the whole point of it was to be writing songs, what was the point in singing other people’s songs? I didn’t set out to be famous (and) I especially didn’t want to be famous because of someone else’s song. I didn’t care about that crap. I just wanted my songs and lyrics to be known, I wanted to change people’s lives. It was more about what the heart wants to do. I pretty much just got fed up, I came to the crossroad. Did I want full creative control and be able to talk about the things that I thought were important or did I want to be famous?

“I had things to say and I couldn’t get up on stage and sing (other people’s) songs when there were so many different things happening in our community. At that time, we had so much attention (but) we weren’t putting any focus on the important things that were happening in our lives.”

In 2006, the week that the Naomi and Simone parted ways as WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

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Shakaya, Naomi created hip hop band The Last Kinection (TLK) with her brother, Joel, and Jacob Turier (DJ Jaytee). It was the same week as the horrific car accident.

“My whole world fell apart,” she remembered. “I had to learn to walk again, my bottom jaw was broken in so many places, I couldn’t pronounce words properly and because I was rapping and stuff, that was the worst thing that could happen. At first I thought, ‘man, my life is already hard, why do I have to go through this’. I already had a lot of things I had to do and a lot of barriers I had to break down. I’ m grateful for everything, but what was I supposed to take from this? I got really morbid and I went to a dark place.”

Naomi was still in her long period of recovery and on crutches when TLK was asked to support Public Enemy. “I couldn’t even feel my lip or anything, but I would much rather regret doing something than regret not doing it. I asked the WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

doctor if I could do it and he said that I wasn’t allowed to jump! It was full on, there is this part where we were jumping all over the place and having so much fun, it was like exercise. How could I do this high intensity show without jumping? So, I just wore a short skirt and didn’t jump (and) it worked! Women are well aware (of the limitations) of having a short skirt on; we are not going to be jumping around madly.”

TLK’s debut album, Nutches, was soon followed up with The Next Of Kin in 2011 that featured the Deadly Award Single of the Year – Happy People. The group has played at major festivals throughout Australia and won Most Outstanding Achievement in Hip Hop and R&B at the Deadly Awards in 2009 and 2010. Naomi also won Best Female Artist at the 2010 Deadlys and in 2012, TLK won the Deadly for Band of the Year. Naomi has also been nominated by Oz Hip Hop.com for Australia’s best female

MC in 2013.

She has also joined forces with MC Brothablack (aka Shannon Narrum Williams), in hosting NITV’s Indigenous Hip Hop show, ‘Move It Mob Style’ on Channel 34. Now into Series 3, Move it Mob Style is all about promoting youth culture through dance and music.

Shot on location around Australia and featuring local young talent, the team teaches dance steps to the hottest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander hip hop beats. The health and youth lifestyle program aims for

a positive impact, not only on young people’s self-esteem, but also their primary health.

“It’s all about dancing and positive messages. Even if you are sitting in front of the TV, we do the dances step-by-step so you can still learn them. It’s fully interactive, and it’s a foundation for other artists to get their songs on there. So, it’s perfect for me, I love it and it’s amazing to be a part of. It’s a whole concept. I’m amazed that no one has ever come up with it before and I’m so happy that I can be a part of it.”

When asked about being a community role model, Naomi said, “that label has been on me since Shakaya days. I don’t feel any pressure. When you are in the public eye, kids look up to you no matter what. It’s up to you if you want to promote good things or bad things, and each to their own.

“For me, I really wish that there were a lot of things that I am doing now, available when I was growing up. It’s so good to have the opportunity to be able to influence this next generation. People can learn from what I have learnt and it’s full of encouragement. There are so many broken families and so many kids being brought up by their grandparents, if they can get a good start and have a bit of encouragement, and a few days in a workshop with us, it will give them a better chance to take on things with that good attitude.

Naomi also conducts Staying Strong workshops, which emphasise resilience.

“The suicide rate for kids in Australia is shocking; we need to focus on that. I never knew that.

I thought about kids dying from cancer, not kids killing themselves.

Doing the Staying Strong workshops is the most fulfilling thing I have ever done - to be able to go out into a community and hang out with these kids and help them release all their crap through writing songs, not through violence. To analyse your thoughts and put them into a song is really therapeutic.”

Naomi has put so much time and energy into her music that she hasn’t really focussed on any other part of her life but now she is taking some time to stop and smell the roses.

“It’s really good to be home, and it’s definitely good to be on a break. I’m going to be working on a solo project soon so I just want to have a break from everything for a second. It’s good to balance, I haven’t been balancing that well,

it’s been all or nothing for me. All the shows and everything I do, my heart is in it, so I find it hard to say no and to have a break, but I think it’s really important as an artist to just go home sometimes. It’s the first time for ages that I have had all my clothes in one place! I’m so lucky to have people around me who give a shit. I’m lucky to have really good friends and family.” www.nitv.org.au

1. Dream big, really big, because you open yourself to the possibilities.

I dreamt really big in the beginning. I made a list, a really big list but I had done that whole list by the time I was 20.

2. Work Hard and go for gold. If 100 per cent isn’t enough, chuck in another 10 per cent. If you’re going to do it, do it properly, not half way.

3. Take the risk – risks are meant to be taken.

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london calling

I

have just had several weeks in Europe spending a week on board a beautiful private boat that sailed around the small islands of Greece. Six other guests and I got to enjoy the custom built slide, jet skis and sea trampoline with seven crewmembers at our beck and call, and divine food. It was a very lavish trip indeed that was bookended with time in the UK. While in London I took in as much theatre as I possibly could, it’s the birthplace of it all and I always find that the most incredible work is performed there. Sadly, one of the shows I witnessed let this thought of mine down… dramatically. I will explain more in my reviews of London theatre!

At the beginning of my trip I saw Children of the Sun at the National Theatre - a darkly comic Russian play adapted by Andrew Upton. It was spectacular, moving and funny.

The acting was superb; Lucas Hare who had the role of the doctor left me in awe; however the production is largely an ensemble piece and is carried effortlessly by the cast of 20 who each show exemplary talent. It is just another intense and mesmerizing stage production by the National Theatre.

While in Liverpool I was lucky to see the musical Hairspray. It was absolutely terrific and I was carried away with this glorious show that is clearly a perfect musical. Even the original Broadway producer, Adam Epstein, stated how it stands up to and – in some ways - even surpasses the Broadway production.

It is clear to me that there is something about the talent of the UK actor/performer that is the polar opposite of the US counterpart.

The American Musical Theatre performer sings and dances WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

by Rik Barnett

beautifully but their acting falls short, with 90 per cent of the performers I see appearing to be severely deficient in the acting department.

The training they receive is all about making them sound great and somehow the emotion and what they are feeling through the

song is lost. It doesn’t work. In the UK, all the people on stage are first-rate actors whose talent exudes from them! The UK has the best stage talent in the world because they believe that as a performer, you are an actor first, the singer and dancer in you come second.

Well, that’s enough of my rant about training, actors and the comparison of the UK versus US. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory... It was abysmal. I felt like I was watching a show in a theme park and it was running two hours too long. It is sad as I did have high hopes for this production, but for me it fell flat on its face. The sad truth is, Warner Brothers put $20m into this show, and if it’s a hit or a

“The set designs are truly epic and beautiful and the little boy that I saw playing Charlie was incredibly talented, yet his talent was wasted with the drivel he had to work with”

WITH RIELY SAVILLE

loss, it’s a win for them. Money in the bank or a tax write-off... It’s a sad glimpse at what could be the future of the stage musical.

There was clear confusion on the stage - LCD screens, a mishmash of songs that didn’t work together, and dance numbers that were reminiscent of something from a high school production of Grease.

The show did offer one or two moments to crack a smile, but allin-all, it missed the punch.

The set designs are truly epic and beautiful and the little boy that I saw playing Charlie was incredibly talented, yet his talent was being wasted with the drivel he had to work with.

The one moment where the show can redeem itself is in the one and only song from the film that WB could get the rights to - Pure Imagination, sung by the ever talented and wonderful Doug Hodge. Sadly, this is only a twominute song in a two-hour show and isn’t enough for me to want to ever witness this stage show again.

The main problem is; there is no heart in this show, no genuine love.

It feels like it has come from a cold, factory ‘studio’, and that is where production should return to, and be put up in their studio tour/park. I think people wouldn’t mind seeing 20 minutes of the ‘highlights’ in a sit down show (maybe).

I also had the chance to experience the private members club The Hospital Club, which is located in Covent Garden.

It’s a luxurious and beautiful establishment for entertainment professionals. They have impeccable food and endless space, used for entertaining and meetings. They even have a cinema, multiple recording studios and - most importantly to the Brits several bars, all split over five levels.

This members club is a must for any young entertainment professional and at membership for under 25-year-olds at only three

hundred pounds sterling, this is a great place to be. Sadly, it is invite only so you’ll need to wrangler your way in somehow.

I have had a truly delightful time in Europe and England and am thrilled that (for the most part) the UK is providing some absolutely magnificent stage work.

Rik Barnett is a UK & US-based English actor and writer.

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on the record perfectly suited for country music.

I feel as though a lot of her songs are being recognized because they are catchy and deal with a lot of relatable issues.

SO HARD FOR YOU - THE BASICS The Basics new single So Hard for You is a step back in a time, and is a sexy new hit that captures the bands youth and great sense of energy. On The Basic’s Facebook page, they describe themselves as “Goyte and two other pre-eety cool guys”. The vocals are strong, and he has the ability to hit high notes and remain completely in control.

The guitar and drums electrify the song, and help build the song’s momentum. This track is a good example of a rock song that doesn’t sseem like it’s trying too hard to sound old school.

IF I WANT TO - JASMINE RAE Jasmine Rae’s vocal ability and talent seem to be getting stronger and stronger, and she is an exciting artist to watch. Her single If I want to is the ultimate girl’s song. This song is soulful, and is the type of song you listen to when everything is turning grey and you want someone to cry to. Her voice is deep and WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

STRANGE CONDITION (EP) - EMPRA Melbourne band EMPRA has just released their second EP, Strange Condition. This song is a pop/rock song, and I believe it is doing well commercially because of its catchy beat. Strange Condition is a huge step up for the band, who have certainly matured since the release of their debut self-titled EP. This song showcases the bands high and powerful vocals, and demonstrates how they have broken free of their tendency to follow popular influences and have come into their own. This song is great and shows the band’s new depth, whilst remaining relatable, and mainstream.

CALL ME IN THE AFTERNOON - HALF MOON RUN I absolutely love this song, which is a track from the group’s debut

REVIEWS: VITA CABONE

album, Dark Eyes. The group have been compared to popular acts like Alt-J. Each artist’s rhythms work harmoniously together and each has their own unique sound.

Half Moon Run came onto the musical scene in late 2012, and has since skyrocketed into the limelight.

This song has really put the band on the map, having since signed to Glassnote Records and touring with famous acts like Mumford & Sons and Monsters and Men.

SLEEPWALKER - BLACKCHORDS Melbourne band Blackchords has released another single Sleepwalker.

This song is quite slow, and I would describe it as indie-dance rock. The song is a reflection of what goes on in the wee hours of the morning, when artificial light turns into sunlight.

Singer Nick Milwright said “the song came to light after a long week of work... Working for money, working to get by, work that numbs the senses. I came to find myself sitting in an old pub, drinking a pint alone. Trying to unwind. This place was littered with television screens and racing results. Drunken men numbing themselves just that little bit more. I started getting glimpses of this song whilst sitting there.

In my mind, the world that I was inhabiting, we are all asleep.”

This band is slowly growing their fan base, and have been putting on great live shows that audiences are responding well to.

www.kellystephens.com.au

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la-la land S

aid American politician, William Jennings Bryan: “Destiny is not a matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved.”

Recently, while on the set of Chavez: Cage of Glory (a new film directed and written by Héctor Echavarría), I was able to observe the man that personifies this quote.

Héctor is truly a man of action; he is involved with every aspect of the filmmaking process. He is directing, acting, and performing physically exhausting cage fight scenes... often take after take until perfection is achieved.

Hector’s many long hours and daily routine is gruelling.

He somehow still makes time to personally thank everyone on set for their hard work and dedication.

Watching Héctor working on his latest film was an incredible experience.

Héctor’s rise to action star status can be traced all the way back to his childhood.

In his native Argentina, Hector was a sickly child who suffered from severe asthma, and was encouraged by his parents to use martial arts to overcome his handicap.

He began his training at the age of four by studying Tai Chi Chuan and Chinese boxing with a Shaolin Monk, Grand Master Tung Kuo Tsao. By the age of six he had been trained in Judo and Jujitsu under Grand Master Mayamoto of Kodokan. By the age of 14, Hector had learned Judo and Jiu Jitsu under Mayamoto of the Kodokan.

As a young teenager he was learning Karate, Kung Fu, and Tae Kwon Do, and at the time became the youngest kick boxer to enter the ring professionally.

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by Ieva Georges

America, and a legendary martial arts champion in his native Argentina, Héctor Echavarria, brings to the Hollywood film industry a background of business success, acting experience, and martial arts expertise. He was recently inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame, was named Full Contact Fighter of the Year and held the World Martial

Arts Championship and the World Kickboxing Championship.

In addition to producing and starring in his own films, Héctor has become an industrial force - with his own clothing line, martial arts federation, real estate holdings, children’s toys and action figures, and an entertainment production company.

His plan to capture the United

“Héctor is has become an industrial force - with his own clothing line, martial arts federation, real estate holdings, children’s toys and action figures, and an entertainment production company”

States and world markets has been to hone his filmmaking expertise, starting with a multi-picture deal to produce and star in a series of action films distributed on Blue Ray and DVD by Lionsgate. These included Death Warrior, Unrivalled, Confessions of a Pit Fighter, also starring Armand Assante, Flavor Flav and Oscar-nominated John Savage, Never Surrender (which he also directed), and the horror film Lake Dead (for After Dark Films).

The casting choices are brilliant, including Danny Trejo (Machete, Machete Kill, Grindhouse, From Dusk until Down), Steven Bauer (Scarface, Traffic), James Russo (Open Rage, Donnie Brasco, Public Enemy and the NBC hit TV show Vegas). HĂŠctor also cast martial arts student and UFC superstar, Heath Herring.

The premiere of Chavez: Cage of Glory is scheduled September 5, 2013 at the Dolby Theater (formerly Kodak Theater) in Hollywood, CA.

Ieva Georges is a Los Angeles based actress TV presenter, model and talent agent.

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. . . r o f h a r r u H NEW ORLEANS HAS BEEN THROUGH A LOT OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS, BUT NOTHING CAN DAMPEN THE SPIRITS OF THE NEW ORLEANIANS WHEN IT COMES TO MARDI GRAS.

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WORDS: DARREN HOUSE PHOTOS: NEW ORLEANS ONLINE. COM, ALEX DEMYAN, JEAN-PAUL GISCLAIR, KATE ELKINS, DARREN HOUSE

B

attling my way down Bourbon Street, through the massive crowds was an experience I’ll never forget.

Strings of beads being thrown from balconies to the throng of people below and having to quickly sidestep to avoid being jumped on by people surging to catch the trinkets being tossed.

Music is pumping from all directions, weird and wonderful costumed and masked characters are partying in the street and everyone is having a blast of a time. Mounted police are overseeing the festivities, but their presence is not hindering anyone, they are also caught up in the excitement and seem to enjoy being included in photos.

This is Fat Tuesday, known as the Biggest Party in the USA.

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It is the final day of a two-week celebration that quickly followed the NFL Superbowl, and the crowd are somehow still in the party spirit.

The Carnival is tied to the Catholic season of Lent. To New Orleanians, Mardi Gras specifically refers to the Tuesday before lent, the highlight of the season. The term is also used less specifically during the whole Carnival season, sometimes as the Mardi Gras season.

Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras Day always refers only to that specific day. It is jammed packed full of celebrations, carnivals, parades, masquerade balls, king cake parties and even debutante balls.

There is usually a major parade each day with many days having several large parades particularly towards the end of the Carnival

which is exactly when we arrived.

The event is one big holiday in New Orleans, all of the businesses and roads are practically shut down. It is full of music, parades, picnics, floats and excitement.

Everyone is dressed up in costume, people wearing traditional purple, green and gold and all are adorned with long beads they have caught that are thrown from the passing floats.

The French Quarter is the main tourist area of New Orleans, but because of the narrow streets and overhead obstructions, most of the

parades will not go into this area.

Instead, major parades originate in the Uptown and Mid-City districts and follow a route along St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street, on the upriver side of the French Quarter.

The whole city gets involved; it’s vibrant, bustling and lots of fun.

Attendance at some of the more aristocratic Balls is by invitation only. Originally, ball invitations were die-cut and printed in Paris; they continue to be quite colourful and valuable works of art. These invitations are also collector’s items, often framed for their beauty, and are interesting conversation pieces. Debutantes are introduced at Ball tableau as a formal

introduction to society. Women dress in ball gowns and have a chance to dance with a ‘prince’ in formal attire – every girls dream!

Some large parades also have an indoor extravaganza the night of their parade. This is a wonderful way to experience Mardi Gras!

Everyone dresses formally, enjoys the parade, entertainment, and food all night long!

Bourbon Street is the main party street in the French Quarter. This long street is full of ‘hole in the wall’ bars and restaurants, there are souvenir shops by the dozen and everywhere you go you can hear music. Bars, clubs, restaurants all have bands playing, musicians just setup in the middle of the street PRODIJEE.COM WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

and play, it’s a hub of activity and fun. During the Mardi Gras, there is much activity here that is frowned upon by the locals, they feel that it detracts from the real meaning of the festivities. There is a growing trend for tourists and some locals to ‘flash’ in an effort to catch more beads that are thrown from the balconies. This practice generally only happens in the French Quarter, particularly on Bourbon Street. It is frowned upon by the police and can often earn you a ‘ticket’ or an arrest.

The beautiful balconies above WWW.PRODIJEE.COM

Bourbon Street, are a wonderful place to enjoy the history, atmosphere, and culture of the Quarter as the sounds of jazz drift by after a fantastic meal. During Mardi Gras, many people think of them as a place to get away from the crowd surges below. Places on these balconies are sold off at a premium price during Mardi Gras, for the incredible view, a way to beat the crowd and the chance to throw your beads down to passersby.

Of course, New Orleans has much more to offer than Mardi

Gras. It is a city steeped in history and tradition - you simply have to look at the architecture and make a visit to the famous cemeteries to see this. Ride a paddle steamer down the Mississippi and eat the traditional cuisine of red beans, crawfish, creole, alligator and the like. Restaurants have oyster bars where you can dine on the very best of oysters the world has on offer. Take a trip out to one of the plantation houses, go in search of alligators, listen to the diverse music that flows through the city or catch a game at the very impressive Super-Bowl.

If you are lucky enough to be in New Orleans during Mardi Gras, you are set to take in what is called the ‘Greatest Free Show on Earth’, if you are there for Fat Tuesday, you will be there for what appréciez la fête (enjoy the party).

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food couture N

ot everyone loves to entertain but you would have to agree when I say that everyone loves to leave a lasting impression when they do. Cooking isn’t everyone’s thing but you don’t have to be a master chef to impress and leave tongues wagging. Whether you create your own three course meal or have a personal chef, finishing with a gorgeous cheese platter is the perfect opportunity to wow your guests and prove your culinary prowess.

Although not so gorgeous on your hips as on your lips, this culinary indulgence is a musthave finishing piece to any dinner party or entertaining event. Having friends over for a glass or two of fine wine is an event in itself and the humble cheese platter is something you can easily whip up whilst still maintaining the wow factor.

First impressions always count so I love to start this creation with something overly indulgent, something like a brie or camembert.

Fromager D’affinois is a rich French double-creme soft cheese produced from cow’s milk and is absolutely gorgeous on the palate.

Silky smooth and creamy with an aromatic finish, this cheese is the perfect example of indulgence and decadence and is the ideal partner for a sweet quince paste or a tart guava jelly.

Moving on to your second selection, you want to take the taste buds on a journey. Somewhere in between soft and hard, somewhere in between England and Germany, somewhere like Midnight Moon.

Originating in the Netherlands, this ivory goat’s milk cheese is firm, dense and smooth. It has a slight

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by Sarah French

graininess, which is expected of a long aged cheese but the texture and nuttiness is the perfect balance for the brown-buttery and caramel notes this cheese so eloquently exudes.

To keep the balance, the next cheese on your platter must be cheddar. The award winning Maffra Aged Rinded Cheddar is the absolute best. Demonstrating classic

cheddar flavour profiles with sweet rich front tones and complex after tones, this cheddar crumbles slightly whilst maintaining its subtle moist texture. Baby Corella pears make a magnificent match for this tasty delight - a flavour sensation packed with a punch and finished with the complimenting hint of sweetness.

The final addition of a blue cheese will complete your superb combination of flavours. Blues are not always everyone’s favourite but the Italian Dolce Gorgonzola is always a hit with fans and a subtle way for non-fans to try and experiment. It is much sweeter than your regular gorgonzola and is only aged for three months, so the flavour is evident but not too

“Although not so gorgeous on your hips as on your lips, this culinary indulgence is a musthave finishing piece to any dinner party or entertaining event. Having friends over for a glass or two of fine wine is an event in itself”

Cranberry Jelly Makes 2 portions Ingredients

garnish with fresh fruits such as grapes, pears, figs and strawberries.

Viola! A simple idea turned culinary masterpiece, ready for you to woo and wow your guests.

Be sure to bring the evening together with the sweet sexy tones and tunes of Michael Bublé or perhaps something upbeat and bouncy like J-Lo and Pitbull - Live it Up. Stay warm, eat with passion and stay fabulous!

pungent or overbearing. Finish with some fresh fig and a lick of sexy truffle honey and your fromage masterpiece is complete.

Always serve your cheese with a selection of fresh breads, crackers and crisps. Arrange on a larger than average wooden board and

• 4 cups cranberries - fresh or frozen • 250ml water • 200gm sugar • 2 limes – juiced

Method 1. Wash and drain the cranberries.

2. Place the fruit and sugar into a pan, cover with the water and bring to the boil.

3. Reduce heat and simmer for ten minutes 4. Finish with lime juice 5. Cool.

NOTE: Try adding your own twist to the dish. Replace one cup of cranberries with blueberries or raspberries. Or you can spice things up a little with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg or fresh vanilla bean.

Sarah French is a Sydney-based International chef.

©Recipe prepared by Sarah French www.sarahfrench.com

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THE MAN BEHIND SOME OF OUR MORE LOVED PRODUCTIONS ON THE BIG AND SMALL SCREENS RELEASES HIS LATEST ROMANTIC COMEDY.

T

here are some television programs and movies that are burnt into our memories forever. Take Mr Bean, The Vicar of Dibley, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill and Bridget Jones’s Diary, all the work of the incredibly talented filmmaker, Richard Curtis.

Richard has given us unforgettable characters, characters who have made us laugh and cry, they have made us compare our lives to theirs, they are ‘real people’ who we can all relate to at some stage.

Now, Richard Curtis and Universal Pictures bring us a new movie, About Time - a funny, tender, poignant love story that celebrates life and family. where 21-year-old Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson, of Anna Karenina, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: part 2) discovers he can travel in time.

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Domhnall is accompanied by Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Lydia Wilson and Margot Robbie in this romantic comedy that will have you once again laughing at our ever-so-human foibles and to share a tear at the extraordinary journeys that accompany our ordinary lives.

Rachel McAdams, Domhnall Gleeson, Bill Nighy and Richard Curtis were amongst other cast members and celebrities who walked the red carpet at London’s famous Somerset House for the world premiere of About Time.

Written and directed by Richard Curtis and produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Nicky Kentish Barnes, this movie is one not to be missed. www.abouttimemovie.com.au

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Margot Robbie and RachelMcAdams.

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Richard Curtis with Bill Nighy.

Domhnall Gleeson.

Lydia Wilson.

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prodijee.com THE NEXT BIG THING IS HERE...