Australian Times weekly newspaper | 5 June 2012 by Jaxy

5 - 11 June 2012 – Issue: 415

WHO IS TO BLAME?

RETINA SCORCHING HD

The scary new Aussie film

Is it time to turn the tele off?

WHEN IN ROME... Colossal Italian delights

VOICES P4

ENTERTAINMENT P6

TRAVEL P10

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JUBILANT AUSSIES n

Thousands of UK Aussies joined the rain soaked throngs on the banks of the Thames while 45 of their compatriots braved the weather to row nine gold surf lifesaving boats near the front of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee River Pageant flotilla. IT could not have been a more British occasion; pomp, ceremony and appalling weather. Four hours standing in chilling, wet conditions to watch the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee pageant paid off for one young Australian whose day warmed up when he spied a dashing Prince Harry. Morag Hutcheson, 14, from Canberra had a prime - albeit unsheltered position on London’s Blackfriar’s Bridge on Sunday to watch the spectacular procession of more than 1000 vessels that meandered down the River Thames in honour of the Queen’s 60-year reign. “We saw Harry. He’s pretty fit,” said a beaming Morag a short time after the royal barge, the Spirit of Chartwell, passed. “I was waving my hands; he was standing outside on the top of the boat.” The 27-year-old prince joined his grandmother the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the royal barge, which inspired a roar of applause and waving banners as soon as it came into sight. Among a sea of Union flags was a scattering of Australian emblems, and cries of “Go Australia” could be heard as surf lifesaving boats rowed by a team of dedicated crews from Down Under powered through London’s murky waterway. “It is just a phenomenally moving experience to be here. It is just a shame the weather is so s...,” said Australian David Black, from Canberra, adding that the temperature was reminiscent of winter in his hometown. “I saw the royal barge, I saw the Queen and Princess Anne who was on another boat,” Mr Black said. “I’ve seen the royals when they have come to Australia, but only very

In association with

Tony Abbott says he’s ‘Dr Yes’ after new poll slump OPPOSITION Leader Tony Abbott has declared he’s “Dr Yes” rather than “Dr No” and that holding the Labor government to account is not being negative. Mr Abbott’s remarks, made during an hour-long Twitter chat with followers, came as the latest Nielsen poll showed his approval rating had fallen five percentage points to 39 per cent, equalling a previous record low, and his disapproval remained at 57 per cent. The ratings dip came after two weeks of parliament sittings in which the federal government portrayed him as doomsayer trying to frighten Australians about its carbon price due to start on July 1. The same poll also showed Labor’s share of the primary vote had slumped to 26 per cent - equal to its record worst performance - and the coalition with a landslide-winning 57 per cent of the two-party vote. Queried about his negativity, Mr Abbott tweeted: “When I last checked 87 per cent of govt (sic) bills had passed without division so I’m Dr Yes 87 per cent of the time.” Asked when he and his colleagues could “stop acting like children” in parliament, Mr Abbott said it was Prime Minister Julia Gillard who set ...continued on p3

LONG, SHE RAINED OVER US: (L to R) Canberra children Benjamin McCarthy, 8, Jake Moore, 8, Ava Moore, 6, and Ella McCarthy, 10 watching the Queen's Diamond Jubilee River Pageant from Blackfriar's Bridge on Sunday. (AAP Image/Andrew Drummond) briefly and never this close. This is just incredible. I appreciate that it is such a monumental event.” Governor-General Quentin Bryce and New Zealand Prime Minister John Key sailed on the Sarpedon, which was set aside for Commonwealth leaders. Also at the centre of the pageant was retired Sydney businessman Owen Palmer, who was invited to sail on the prestigious 87-foot Havengore. Palmer

rescued the boat from demise in 1994 and restored it to its former glory. The Havengore famously carried the coffin of Winston Churchill along the Thames for his 1965 state funeral. On Sunday its passengers included Prince Andrew and his daughters princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, London Mayor Boris Johnson and former British prime minister John Major.

Go to: AustralianTimes.co.uk/move-to-australia

“They are both beautiful and fun young women,” Palmer said of Beatrice and Eugenie. Despite the historic nature of the pageant, its significance was not lost on a group of Australian youngsters. Asked what he planned to do when the royal barge passed, eight-year-old Jake Moore said: “I’m going to wave ...continued on p3

2 | News

5 - 11 June 2012

I confess, I’m a Leveson addict n

It has suddenly dawned on me; the Leveson Inquiry won’t go on forever. But my cravings are only getting worse. the hard word > NATHAN MOTTON

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THE two-part inquiry which Lord Justice Leveson said addresses one fundamental question: “who guards the guardians?” has run since November and has proved all kinds of exhilarating fodder for the press, officialdom and the public. But like a most addictive drug - taking over every inch of your being, demanding every second of your attention and catapulting you into an overwhelming, seemingly unyielding sense of euphoria - the Leveson Inquiry comedown is inevitable. After The Guardian exposed in 2011 the hacking of murdered teenager Milly Dowler’s phone by News of the World journalists and private investigator Glen Mulcaire, Prime Minister David Cameron announced the inquiry investigating the role of the press and police. What followed in the weeks and months after that exclusive was published has been as dramatic and engrossing as it has been damaging. The closure of Rupert Murdoch’s flagship Sunday newspaper, once the most read English language newspaper in the world, was just the start. News Corp was forced to abandon plans to buy the stake it didn’t already own in BSkyB, David Cameron’s press spokesman resigned and the one-time queen of the British press Rebekah Brooks, along with her husband Charlie, are charged for allegedly perverting the course of justice. By the end of the first ‘module’, we’d heard from nearly 200 witnesses at a cost to the taxpayer of almost £1 million and it has apparently been tweeted more than the Eurozone crisis by British journalists. While not seeking to trivialise the

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On: UK summer begs the question: why can’t Oz be just like the UK?

Dude, what have you been smoking? Britain is the “bingedrinking capital of Europe”. This is not a compliment – this is a problem! Rather complain that we aren’t allowed to BBQ in the Parks in London (because the incompetent Brits would set the park ablaze) – THAT they should change…but they won’t because if they do then all the binge-drinkers who can’t hold their drink (and there are many of them, don’t delude yourself) will ruin the park. Gareth AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices The fact the Poms are allowed to drink in public and remain relatively sober (I don’t think that’s true for when they head o/s) is testament to the fact that it is restriction that sends it underground. I’m sure many of us do drink when at the beach or at the river but conceal it and therefore probably drink faster so as not to get caught. Alternatively we go to the pub

? What’s your view

inquiry in any way, it has proven for this scribe such a fascinating docudrama. Kate and Gerry McCann’s evidence about the treatment they received by the press after their daughter Madeleine went missing in Portugal was simply gutwrenching, so too was the evidence given by Milly Dowler’s parents, Bob and Sally. Those red tops had a field day with the plethora of celebrities that were rolled out soon after, most of them (rightly or wrongly) taking aim at the very people that make them feel like they’re some type of demigods. We heard some incredible insights into the lives and times of the people in charge of Britain’s biggest (and lowest) circulating newspapers. We’ve heard J.K. Rowling’s disturbing testimony about her harassment at the hands of the paparazzi, in contrast to some nauseating appearances from the likes of Piers Morgan and Darren Lyons, while more recently we’ve seen the return of Mr

Teflon, Tony Blair. And who could forget the ambiguously vague evidence given by Rupert and James Murdoch? Leveson lead counsel Robert Jay QC (pictured) has been an absolute joy to watch, as he has methodically gone about picking apart the evidence of witnesses given both directly and indirectly. The Leveson Inquiry has, among other things, exposed some ethically wrong relationships between the fourth estate and policemen, as well as politicians. But does the lay person actually care? The new Sunday Sun is going great guns. Does the public actively possess an interest in the comings and goings of the Leveson Inquiry, or is it merely just an obsession of the press because... well... it kind of affects us? Well, this scribe can’t wait for the next hit.

then head out to the beach after a skinful as its the bloody cues at the pub that are annoying. Let us drink whilst the bbq flares on the beach or river and make us responsible for our own actions-you become a dickhead then you pay the cost.... Robert Worton AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

On: SKA telescope to be split between Australia and South Africa

On: Julia Gillard under fire over work migration deal

Gillard lurches from one disaster to the next. She has told so many untruths that I think she’s lost track of how to be honest. The majority of voters totally despise her and no longer believe a word she utters. The opposition leader is constantly condemned for his alleged negativity. Not one word is said against Gillard’s constant debasing of Abbott. Constant blame for all her disasters. That’s not seen as negativity. Every “smart” move Gillard makes backfires and proves how inept she is as a Prime Minister. She bumbles along and is only there, because nobody else would want to lead such a rabble. The majority are praying this government will be ousted in the next election, in a landslide. Pat AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

Ridiculous. This is the worst option, scientifically .. the split option will not be as good a telescope as a consolidated one. Smacks more of kick-backs than pure science if you ask me. George AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

On:Stoke’sguidetogetting it on at Europe’s ‘Big 3’

The Gold Coast swoop - 60% of the time, it works, everytime... Troy Facebook.com/AustralianTimes

On: Jesus Christ! Superstar Tim Minchin to feature as Judas

When you use phrases like “self confessed atheist” you show your bigotry. Why do you feel not having an imaginary friend is something someone need to confess to. Michael Wilson Facebook.com/AustralianTimes

Share your comments on these and more stories online: AustralianTimes.co.uk

News | 3

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A wet one for the true Jubilievers Continued from p1...

my Australian flag.” Did he think the Queen would wave back? “No.” Not surprisingly, the Queen barely flinched and showed her stoicism by standing throughout a miserable afternoon to greet the armada in conditions reminiscent of her coronation in 1953. The driving rain and darkening skies forced the cancellation of the flypast and the fireworks to conclude the pageant struggled to make an impression against the clouds. For all the grandness and historical weight of the occasion, the weather took

a bit of an edge off the day and only the true believers remained until the end. However, the weather cleared on Monday in time for the diamond jubilee concert where Australia’s Kylie Minogue and Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu performed in a line-up including Elton John and Paul McCartney. After the concert, more than 4000 beacons were lit throughout the UK and the Commonwealth, with Prime Minister Julia Gillard having earlier lit a beacon at Parliament House in Canberra as part of the global Jubilee ceremony. - AAP

AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

Abbott toning down climate tax rhetoric Continued from p1...

the tone of debate. “Suggest you watch QT (question time) more closely. Our duty is to ask hard questions but PM always sets the tone of the parliament,” he posted. Mr Abbott on Monday visited a landfill site on the Gold Coast to talk about the impact of the carbon tax on businesses. But he appeared to tone down his previous rhetoric about the immediate damage the tax would cause. “It’s going to be a python squeeze rather than a cobra strike,” Mr Abbott told reporters. Climate change minister Greg Combet said Mr Abbott had started to “crab-walk” away from his own claims about the impact of carbon pricing on goods and services. “The only python in the carbon debate is the opposition leader’s

Monty Pythonesque hyperbole,” Mr Combet said in a statement. The Nielsen poll published by Fairfax Media also showed there was strong voter preference for former foreign minister Kevin Rudd to be Labor leader and opposition communications spokesman Malcolm Turnbull to lead the Liberals. But cabinet minister Nicola Roxon said Labor will “absolutely” stand by Ms Gillard, although she acknowledged the government had a lot of work to do to improve its standing with voters. “I really work very closely with Julia. She’s incredibly strong, incredibly decent,” she told Macquarie Radio. Labor backbencher Nick Champion, who supported Mr Rudd in a February leadership spill, played down speculation about Ms Gillard’s future. “We made our decision a couple of months ago,” he told Sky News. - AAP

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4 | Voices

5 - 11 June 2012

The do’s and don’ts of the London Underground tube talk > SANDRA TAHMASBY

LOVE it or hate it, the Tube in London is... well, it’s the Tube! And having just spent over a week away, I couldn’t wait to come back to my everyday intimate relationship with it. Being an Aussie living in the UK, I have come to learn a lot about this new ‘man’ in my life. I spend lots of time with him. Together we discover new things every day. And he keeps me nice and warm. Yes, I am still talking about the Tube... Every morning it’s a race to get on the Tube and just like a rugby union scrum, I find myself pushing and shoving with unbridled abandon, just to make sure that the doors don’t close on me. And while each morning I narrowly avoid loosing an arm, a leg or as us girls know too well, a ponytail or a handbag... (oh the embarrassment!), I’m not fooled – I know I am definitely not the next Wallabies star. In my head I hear the voices telling me to squeeze in or push that guy just a little bit more so I don’t get stuck but as I have a quick look around... no seats... DAMN! Ok, Plan B - duck under her arm and squish yourself in

that gap, face the door and get your balance. Being so small – almost five foot tall - on a good day this plan mostly works in my favour (just remember to make sure you find your space and REMEMBER to breathe). However, it doesn’t take long for the deafening silence of the Tube to set in. It’s almost taboo to talk to anyone on the Tube and sometimes it can feel awkward even coughing or clearing your throat because that is a form of noise coming from a human (I don’t even want to imagine the shame if you had an empty stomach!). I try to smile at people that I lock eyes with; and they look at me like I’m crazy or on day release from the local mental institution. But why is it so awkward? Would it be so awkward if I was at the local Walkabout and smiled at the same person there? Basically, the rules are - DON’T even think about eye contact. It’s like a game of ping pong but instead it’s your eyes that do the bouncing when someone catches you staring. You look down, they look down, then you look up and oh... there it is again, eye contact! Quick, look down again, and it goes on and on until finally it’s your stop and you rush off probably never to see that person again. So again, why was it so awkward?

Yes, I know - the Tube can make me feel insecure, so why do I choose to take it every day? Is it that I secretly like the hecticness of that peak hour

need a licence to drive a TV here in Blighty and today I am surfing under the influence for sure! But what’s the point. I don’t need this Pommy drivel they try and pass off as TV. If I want the news from home (or to see what my fellow Aussies in the UK are up to) I check out Aussie Times online. If I want to know the score in Egypt, I can follow the freedom fighters and yonnie throwers live on Twitter. For the weather… well, I don’t even bother, as long as it’s four degrees in the fridge. Every AFL game is beamed directly to my BBQ each week or I can enjoy the games (and the hospitality) at the Walkie or Larrik Inn. iPlayers are giving me part of what I need and Youtube provides the rest - so what’s the TV for anymore anyway? I’ve just upped my broadband to full throttle and everything’s surging down the pipe so I don’t even need an aerial anymore either! My big dilemmas on a day like this: are should I download a video

or go down to the video shop? Well, I’m still old school there. The silent shuffling feet of Sunday blokes with eyes glazed over staring at walls of DVD covers still feels nice. But so did buying CD’s and I stopped doing that years ago, so I guess I too will soon be vacuuming up movies direct. There just seems to be so many formats and new tech arriving. 3D, HD, DVD, BlueRay, PC, Digi box, tablet, smart phone, Mac, iPhone, iPlayer etc, etc…(sorry if I missed anyone). I s’pose it’s a full scale format war and our options are endless but there’s only one thing that could be worse than HD pollies. Smellavision... I am finally saved by scrolling through my Apps to Triple J. Some home grown tunes to start the day. Heaven! Are you a disciple of the digital revolution? Or do you still consider yourself ‘old school’? Tell us at

AGGGHHHHH!!! It’s all too much. I’ve just mustered enough energy to roll over and flick on the idiot box this morning whilst nursing the mother of all hangovers and it hits me in the face like a State of Origin haymaker... High Definition politicians talkin’ themselves up. We’re up so close I can see that bloke’s got a bat in the cave! Bloody hell, I can see makeup troweled all over his face. What are they thinking? I don’t want HD, retina scorching, faces made for radio gawking at me. Not ever! And especially not this morning... But I seem to have developed an intermittent fault. There’s a short circuit between my hand with the remote and my head with the hangover. Sure, I’ve got the shakes but it just seems to be reruns, repeats, and general crap on the box. Much like my recent trip to the dunny…(but that’s another story). You may be surprised to hear you

eye contact. Go on, do it!) What are your tales from the Tube? Tell us at AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

Retina scorching HD

By Bon8

rush? I’ll leave you to ponder this very question the next time you’re on the Tube... (Maybe you’re on the Tube right now. I dare you to make

AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

Voices | 5

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Walking the Thames Path n

Getting to know your local fishmonger in London

Our London adventurer has found a little piece of home here in London, in the most unexpected of places – the River Thames. So, with the chance to walk the famous waterway n With the warm, summery weather comes the need for tasty, and tick off #26 on her London Top 100 list, summery dishes and our Aussie chef in London has deemed it the right time to let us in on some foodie trade secrets. she set ‘sail’ along the Thames Path.

chris’s

kitchen > CHRIS ARK

OVER the past few articles I have gone on about getting on down to your local fishmonger and buying the freshest fish for your table. Due to popular demand and feedback from all my loyal followers, this week I am going lift the lid on a few fish mongers in London and where to buy the best and tastiest fish. When I am looking for a new supplier or a local store to stock my fridge, I will usually do a bit of research into what makes the shop work or flop. Buying fresh fish, meat, or fruit and

because I know it hasn’t travelled more kilometers than an Aussie backpacker this summer.

Here is a quick list of my five favourite fishmongers in London.

• Fish Tale, Streatham Hill • Moxon’s, Clapham South • Cape Clear, Brook Green • Borough Market (always a great spot and top day out) • Hampstead Seafoods

And here is a quick and tasty fish cake recipe that always goes down a treat when the mates are around. Enjoy and happy cooking!

Chris’s fab fish cakes

bron in

the don BRONWYN SPENCER

SIMILAR to my hometown of Brissie, the city of London is focused on the river running straight through the centre. Not unlike when I was at home, I often find myself drawn to the river and the city centre to explore the attractions that line the banks, or to just have a peaceful wander along the water (although I must say the River Thames is a lot more picturesque than the Brisbane River). Winding its way from the Cotswolds Hills via Oxford, Windsor and London to South End Sea, the Thames and the path that snakes along its banks measures 294km. While I do enjoy a walk there is no way I was attempting that massive effort all at once, so luckily for me it is broken up into sections. Since many of London’s hotspots are focused along the river I realised I had inadvertently done some of the walk without realising. My casual walk from Borough Markets up to Waterloo passing St Pauls, Millennium Bridge, Tate Modern and the London Eye meant I had covered one section easily. However in the interests of ticking this one off the London Top 100 list properly I decided to venture further afield and get the train to Charlton and take the short walk down to the Thames Barriers. The Thames Barriers are huge metal and concrete gates used to prevent London from flooding during a tidal surge. For

veg can be like going on a first date, you never know what you are going to get and you don’t know whether or not it will it satisfy your every expectation… I like to look at the store for cleanliness, well stocked shelves plus the presentation of certificates and whether they support local growers and industries. But most of all, I look for staff that are willing to develop a relationship and spend time answering any questions we may have. It can be a real treat dropping into your local shop and saying a hello and having a chat. Searching for the right fish is even harder as the coastline is a few miles from London so I always buy sustainable English line caught fish

£3.50 you can visit the information centre and see how they work. It was pretty nerdy but I really enjoyed seeing how they work and the history of why they were put in place. From there it is about a 45 minute walk along the path to the O2 Arena at Greenwich and I must admit it wasn’t a particularly thrilling walk. Based alongside London’s eastern industrial areas, there isn’t too much in the way of beautiful scenery to see however we did discover a couple of people fishing and a small rocky beach with some interesting artwork. It also provides a good view to the other side of the river with the towering structures of Canary Wharf.

What you need: I enjoyed the walk but I would have to say there are more picturesque places to walk. One of my favourite sections is that from Putney to Richmond. With its greenery and wide footpaths there are no shipping containers in sight. Just gorgeous canal boats and cafes lining the walk. You can follow the path of the Oxford to Cambridge boat race and get the chance to veer off to visit the deer in Richmond Park. If you happen to fall into a pub along the way then there are plenty of options with a gorgeous view to choose from. While I haven’t yet walked the 294km I have spent plenty of time along the Thames sipping ciders in the sun in Kingston or running through Battersea Park. I’m slowly getting there but next time I plan to explore a little further a field and walk a stretch in Windsor or Oxford and I might complete it all one day! AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

• 1 small onion finely chopped • 500g fish fillets, skinned salmon or cod • 350ml white wine or fish stock • 500g mashed spuds • Flat leaf parsley, tarragon or dill or a mix chopped to make 1-2 tbsp • Cup of flour for dusting • 1 egg, beaten • Fresh or dried breadcrumb , to coat • Oil for frying

What to do:

• Put the onion in a large frying pan, sit the fish on top and pour the wine or stock over. • Bring to a gentle simmer, cover and cook the fish for 6-8 minutes or until cooked through. • Remove and cool, then strain out the onion (keep the wine or stock if you are making a sauce) and mix the onion into the mashed potato with the herbs. • Flake in the fish in decent-sized chunks and season. Gently mix everything and, using floured

hands, shape into 8 cakes. Lightly dust with flour, dip in egg and then in breadcrumbs. Chill for at least 30 minutes (important to chill or they will come apart in the pan). • Heat 1cm oil in a large frying pan. Fry the fish cakes in batches for 3-4 minutes each side or until they are golden, crisp and heated through. Drain on kitchen paper. • Enjoy with some spiced Aioli and fresh lemon juice!

AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

6 | Entertainment

5 - 11 June 2012

Steven ‘McRae-zing’ at a cinema screen near you By Will Fitzgibbon

AN Australian ballet dancer has done the unimaginable and performed in 17 countries simultaneously - all the while remaining in London as part of the Royal Opera House’s ever-expanding live cinema project. Steven McRae, the Sydney-born, red-headed principal dancer at the UK’s Royal Opera House (ROH), skilfully interpreted the role of Colas in Frederick Ashton’s widely-praised choreography of 18th Century ballet La Fille Mal Gardee (The Wayward Daughter). Australian McRae or, as one Twitternaut wrote, “McRae-zing”, danced alongside the eponymous fille, Brazilian Roberta Marquez. Described as “an utterly English romcom”, La Fille Mal Gardee is a light-hearted tale of two country lovers who must contend with oversized hens, a Shetland pony and a clog-wearing kill-joy mother. It has been one of the most popular ballets in ROH’s repertoire since its premiere in 1960. While a lucky few saw the spectacle live at Covent Garden in May, the true excitement was the ballet’s global mediatisation to 475 cinemas in 17 countries, including many in London. Cinematic live streaming of operas, ballets and concerts is one of most significant changes in a generation to classical performance. The New York

Image by Johan Persson

plus special guests

Metropolitan Opera and London’s Royal Opera House are two of the practice’s most notable proponents. The hope of classical performance venues is that reducing traditionallyinhibitive prices and the carapace of elitism will increase public engagement and revenue. While some critics complain that artistic decisions are now being taken with only the cameras in mind, there are plenty of benefits for the cinema-goers. ROH Chief Executive Tony Hall told BBC Breakfast in 2011 that cinema screenings were now “part of opening up the glories of the opera house to as many people as we can”. Tickets to a live screening can cost as little as £10 in contrast to the expensive tickets on sale live that can exceed £100. Live cinema also

heightens ballet’s physicality; the camera shows heaving chests, moist, glistening shoulder blades and the exquisite precision of a grand jete with clarity that would be imperceptible from anywhere but the most expensive places in Covent Garden. And judging by viewer comments in London’s Leicester Square Empire Theatre and by the many positive tweets flashing across the screen during the interval and at the broadcast’s conclusion, most viewers were impressed by McRae and his colleagues. ROH continues is live cinema season in 2012/2013 with masterworks such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

New Aussie flick’s got everybody to Blame but themselves

Film review by Phoebe Lee

NEW Australian film, Blame, centres around a high school music teacher, Bernard (Damian de Montemas), who is suddenly attacked in his home by five young mates who are keen on revenge following the suicide of their friend Alice (Saskia Hampele). The film, set in isolated bush land in Roleystone, Perth, appears to begin with an ending as Bernard is blindfolded, tied to a chair and force fed sleeping pills. A fake suicide note is constructed and he is positioned in the bedroom and left for dead. Unfortunately though, the perfect murder begins to unravel when the plan does not go as it should and immediately a thousand questions are raised around what led these five young friends to stage a man’s suicide. Facing a botched murder attempt and the grief of losing Alice - their friend, sister and girlfriend - the truth begins to unravel from the tight knit web of lies and deceit caught among the group. As a low-budget Australian film, director Michael Henry has done an excellent job in building suspense and intrigue throughout and still finds a way to make you laugh at times. From the outset the engaging storyline urges you to question the personal motive behind each of the five group members and what truth Bernard may be hiding. Blame exposes the sometimes unseen relationship and social dynamics between friends and the lengths some will go to when their only thought is for themselves. The film was shown by the London Australian Film Society (LAFS), based at their new venue, Shortwave Cinema in Bermondsey Square, London.

While LAFS initially began in the 1970s and ran films and documentaries from Australia House for 38 years, the society relaunched on Australia Day 2012 and is once again giving support and gaining recognition for Australian films and documentaries. Be sure to find the London Australian Film Society on Facebook to stay updated on their future screenings.

AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

BLAME GAME: Sophie Lowe in the Australian thriller Blame.

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Entertainment | 7

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What we’re following #Tony Abbott

@danilic New Radio Telescope to be built in WA will be able to see back in time to near where Tony Abbott lives. @MiaFreedman I’ve watched this footage of Tony Abbott running out of parliament 20 times and it still makes me laugh @mrtonymartin Imagine how fast Tony Abbott will be running when Craig Thomson is actually charged with something. @archiearchive Tony Abbott is so evangelical about speaking an Asian langusge - Which Asian language doe she speak? @Dan_Anstey Schapelle Corby is Australia’s Nelson Mandela. Seriously though, I’d vote for her over Tony Abbott.

@shellity

How many times does it need to be said? Hating Tony Abbott does not equal Loving Julia Gillard. Check out what we’re following today on AustralianTimes.co.uk and follow us on Twitter @AustralianTimes

What’s On Christa Vi 12 June @ Zigfrid von Underbelly, Hoxton Hermitude 2 July @ Barfly, Camden Hilltop Hoods 4 July @ Electric Ballroom Wolfmother 6 July @ IndigO2, North Greenwich Cold Chisel 11 July Hyde Park @Shepherd’s Bush Empire The Temper Trap 11 July @ Somerset House Sneaky Sound System 21 July @ Electric Brixton Xavier Rudd 8 August @ Koko Darren Hayes 24 September @ IndigO2, North Greenwich Gotye 12 November @ Hammersmith Apollo The Cat Empire 9-10 December @ Shepherd’s Bush Empire

For full details...

...and more Aussie gigs go to: AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

Long way to the top for Gotye, a One Night Stand and The Voice drowned out music from the

motherland > PAUL JUDGE

Spreading the music love

WE’RE spoilt for music here in the UK. But it’s not just that. We’re spoilt for Australian music. In the past two weeks the Motherland has caught Hungry Kids of Hungary, DZ Deathrays, Inland Sea and Jinga Safari. And that’s just the Aussie music. In England, it never rains it pours - so in the midst of our live music gluttony spare a thought for our compatriots back home who don’t get this pick or value for money. Most of the bands just mentioned were a fiver, and even after a few pints it’s still a cheap night (provided you can keep it to a few!). Australia’s live music landscape misses this, especially the further inland you go. So it was heartening to see the next round of Triple J’s ‘One Night Stand’ get underway on the weekend in Dalby, Western Queensland. The team at Triple J get themselves to remote and small places throughout Australia for a night of fun - bringing along some fine Australian acts. This time they took along Matt Corby, Stonefield, 360 and The Temper Trap to entertain the estimated 10,000 people who drove hundreds of kilometres to see some live music action. Dalby is a town of 10,000 itself, with not much to do for young people, and hasn’t seen something like this before and probably won’t again. We’re sure the music fans, young and old, will appreciate this night for a long time and would have had a blast. So next

time you’re at a gig and might just be hanging out the back not paying attention because there’s always another one to go, think of the music hungry kids in Australia.

Losing The Voice

In the interest of all Aussie music fans we thought we’d give you an update from the Australian version of The Voice. You know, the show where they sing and the judges make a blind decision on their talent, they mentor them, it’s a roller coaster of emotions... yawn. From what we can tell, the finale is on 18 June, s0 it’s now crunch time. But what’s happened so far? A few singers have been booted by the judges for not making the grade, the judges have promoted their own music making the contestants sing it, Seal and Delta Goodrem had a bit of a tiff and most importantly no one really cares. So, from what we can tell, exactly like the UK version!

announced their awards for the year. Although smaller than some of the other Australian music awards, these are held in high regard by the music industry as a lot of them are peer nominated. As expected, Wally De Backer (aka Gotye) featured prominently including Song of the Year, Songwriter of the Year and Most Played Australian Song (we’ll let you guess which one). Other artists to get a nod were Boy and Bear for Breakthrough Songwriter and LFMAO for International Work of the Year with ‘Party Rock Anthem’. Interestingly, Wally lost out in Most Played Australian Song Overseas to AC/DC’s ‘Highway to Hell’, an award it pretty much has ownership on. So while Gotye has been on repeat all over the globe, he’s still got a long way to the top if he wants to usurp the kings of Australian rock. AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

More gongs for Wally but Acca still got it

The Australian Performing Rights Association (APRA) - those lovely people who promote Australian music and make sure the artists get paid - have

The Wiggles farewell the UK in style By Mihal Greener

IF 21 years ago The Wiggles had any idea they would still be performing to pre-schoolers around the world today a few things may have been done differently, according to Red Wiggle Murray Cook. There may have been a female Wiggle and Murray may have chosen a different colour skivvy. Yet when Blue Wiggle Anthony Field assembled the group while studying Early Childhood Education to record a one-off album in 1991, there was little inkling of the global success and longevity that was to follow. After two decades and over 6000 live shows, three of the four original Wiggles are retiring from the stage and moving into behind the scenes roles. However, before hanging up their skivvies and saying goodbye to the Big Red Car, the original Wiggles are embarking on a farewell tour across the UK and Ireland from 31 May until 17 June. They will then take the tour to the USA, New Zealand and Canada before performing together for the last time in Australia at the end of the year. Blue Wiggle Field, who Cook describes as the creative driver of The Wiggles, will

continue to perform and mentor the new generation of Wiggles: Emma Watkins (yellow), Lachlan Gillespie (purple) and Simon Pryce, who will be taking over Cook’s red skivvy. The introduction of the first female Wiggle (with the exception of Kylie Minogue who was made an honorary Pink Wiggle in 2009) has generated considerable interest. While selecting Emma for the yellow skivvy was not tokenism says Cook, he acknowledges that if The Wiggles had started differently there may have been a female Wiggle from the beginning. “We just started as a bunch of friends who did a one-off album,” reflects Cook. “If we had known we would be going for 20 years we probably would have had a girl. I think it’s good to reflect how society is, men and women working together.” Saying goodbye to performing with The Wiggles after two decades is bittersweet for the Red Wiggle. After 21 years together, Cook says his friendship with the other Wiggles is still strong. “I don’t think you can do what we do without getting along,” Cook says. “It’s been an amazing adventure, something we didn’t think would be taken as far as it’s been.” The decision to retire had been on Cook’s mind for the last few years, and with Yellow Wiggle Greg Page returning to the group six months ago after a five year break due to health issues, and Purple Wiggle Jeff Fatt, who is turning 60 next year, also talking about retirement, Cook says it made sense to do it together, making a clean break and new start for The Wiggles.

Retiring from performing with The Wiggles will be a big change of pace for Cook, who while entertaining children on stage has missed seeing his own children growing up. “When we tour, we tour a lot,” explains Cook. “Many of the big rock bands will tour for a couple of years and then take three or fours years off, we’ve pretty much toured constantly for 20 years.” Yet while the Red Wiggle is looking forward to spending time at home he will miss being on stage and bringing joy to pre-schoolers across the world. Being the Red Wiggle is an exaggerated extension of Cook’s own personality, rather than a character on stage. “It’s kind of the way you are with your own children…you do kind of behave in crazy ways that you wouldn’t with adult friends.” Off stage his son was especially obsessed with The Wiggles when he was younger, but at 15 years old he is now not quite as enamoured by it as he once was. “Most 15 year old boys are pretty embarrassed by their parents, I’ve kind of got an extra level,” chuckles Cook. Despite having sold 23 million DVDs and seven million CDs worldwide Cook remains down to earth and self-deprecating. He laughs off the fact he was named Australia’s sixth best guitarist in 2008. “I think there was a bit of humour involved in that one.” While Cook, who owns a collection of 30 vintage guitars and includes The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who as his musical inspirations, says it was it was

flattering to be included in that group he modestly adds: “I wouldn’t want to have a play off with some of the other guitarists in that list.” Beyond working for the Wiggles behind the scenes Cook is open to what the future will bring, but it’s unlikely you’ll spot him in a red skivvy again. “I don’t tend to like red as a colour,” Cook admits. “When we started wearing the colours I already had a red shirt and Jeff had a purple one and the other two fought it out over who would be blue and yellow.” There was little then to suggest that he’d be wearing red for two decades to follow, in one of the most successful performing acts the world had ever known. Don’t miss The Wiggles at the Hammersmith Apollo 9 & 10 June. AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

travel

8 | Travel

5 - 11 June 2012

Sun, sea and sand - sailing around Croatia a i t a o Cr tting This week we’re pu ON THE MAP

What do you get when you mix together some of the most beautiful islands in the world, the refreshing and majestic Adriatic Sea, and a boatload of party-people sailors? BRONWYN SPENCER found out with eight days around the magical Croatian coastline.

EVER since my stint in Europe a couple of summers ago, there had been one place I’d wanted to go back to the most. Croatia. My two days in this idyllic place just weren’t enough and I was so excited to get back there, that last year I booked myself onto a sailing holiday so that I could explore this fantastic country a little bit more. Croatia, known locally as Hrvatska, is located in southeast Europe and flanked by Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia, Bosnia Herzegovina, Montenegro and the beautiful Adriatic Sea. The sailing option had been recommended by many friends and I was looking forward to getting some sun, swimming in the ocean (for the first time in over a year) and catching up with my sister who was joining me. What we got was the time of our lives and seven days of absolute bliss (with just a few cocktails thrown in too).

Meandering to Milna

Arriving for the first day of our tour at the beautiful Croatian island of Split, we headed down to the picturesque docks to find our boat – Vgrada. There, we checked in, met our sailing guide Fi (from Scotland), and met our other crewmates. At lunchtime we set sail for Milna. We had lunch on the boat before a swim stop. I was so excited to get straight into the sea, that I literally jumped straight off the top deck of the boat into the crystal blue water and had heaps of fun splashing around and sitting on the floaties. The rest of the afternoon was spent drinking beers up on the deck, lazing in lounge chairs and reading or snoozing. The evening was spent tasting the local grappa on the walking tour around Milna, playing drinking games on the boat followed by the first of many cocktails at the local nightclubs nearby.

Kava-ing it up in Hvar

After lazing on the boat all day for day two, we arrived in Hvar in the afternoon and headed onshore and straight up to the fort on top of the hill. The views were absolutely gorgeous

Travel | 9

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Me says Miljet

and well worth the 15 minute trek uphill. Once the sightseeing had been done, it was time to hit the many bars of Hvar, including the waterfront Hula Hula bar with yummy peach daiquiris as well as another amazing view. Most of the night was spent at Kava Bar where we ‘Kava-ed’ up the dance floor and tried our hand at tequila boom booms (tequila shots where they hit you on the head while you wear a helmet - Yikes!).

Cute, chic, Korcula

As the night before had ended fairly late (or early, depending how you see it) the boat was fairly quiet in the morning for day three, with many people taking naps or just lazing around dozily. We had quite a long swim stop on our pleasant sail from Hvar to Korcula, which meant there was lots of time to dive in and relax. Once we got to Korcula we had a fair bit of spare time to have a look around the cute little town. That night we checked out a bar on top of a tower where your cocktails get brought up to you by pulley!

Doing it Dubrovnik-style

Dubrovnik was already pretty much my favourite place on earth and that didn’t really change when I visited it this time around. It was awesome to see it from the water as we sailed into the famous harbour, a whole new perspective compared to my last visit. We got to have a swim stop right near the UNESCO World Heritage Listed fortress city wall, which made for quite an amazing backdrop to our paddle in the azure Adriatic waters. We had a whole afternoon in Dubrovnik to roam around. Fi showed us around to an amazing gelato place and then to a cliff side bar where we could bask in the sun and grab a pint. Since I had already been up to the wall of the city I decided to skip that and wander through the cute old town. That night - you guessed it - we hit the bars, this time including two that served cocktails in buckets.

After a big night, many of us were feeling sorry for ourselves and so it was good that the next day in Miljet was a quiet one. We had a swim stop as usual, there were a few nanna naps and lots of relaxing out on the deck. There was also an option to go onshore and check out a national park which gave us an opportunity to get off the boat. After five days onboard our trusty Vgrada - I was starting to get a bit of cabin fever and this provided a good chance to walk off my sea legs. That night we visited a bar built into an old fortress which had an amazing history (of which was told to us eagerly by the bar’s owner).

Making it to Makarska

The next day was a quick trip from Miljet to Makarska, where we got to wander through quite a cute little town. We spent the afternoon watching and participating in watersports and chilling on the beach before heading back to the boat to get ready for our pirate/ sailors party. This was the first night we met up with other boats, so we were joined for our party by other sailors and some people in togas. Usually this huge party night out is held in a cave but as we were the last trip of the season the cave had closed. It was still a fun night, as it always is with costume parties!

definitely try it again as much of the time it was just rowing down a river between rapids. After the rafting we jumped back on the boat to head to Split. With one last swim stop just outside the city we cruised on in and docked for the evening.

A fitting farewell to my Croatian adventure

The next day I bid farewell to my crew mates and amazing tour leader Fi before setting off to explore more of Split. I can see why people recommended the trip to me as I had an amazing time and am so glad I went. While I wish I could stay in Croatia forever, I was still really happy to have had a week spending time sailing in the sun and sea. Got a hankering to do Croatia by boat? Check out our Travel Deals on page 11 for some serious sailing savings! AustralianTimes.co.uk/travel

Split via Omis

Our last day on the boat! We were a little sad at the end of it but overall I was pretty ready to get off. Before heading into Split we were up bright and early to go to Omis where we went white water rafting. I had never done white water rafting before and I was really excited about giving it a go. I had a great time and will

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10 | Travel

5 - 11 June 2012

tting This week we’re pu

Rome ON THE MAP

Rome, stones and Gladiators – the colossal Italian capital By Vici Burgess

THE awesome gladiator thrusts his sword through the bloody chest of his opponent, gasping in exhaustion as the man before him sinks to the ground. Sweat drips from his brow, as he looks up to the screaming throngs of spectators and raises his arms, fists clenched and receives his praise. He will live to fight for another day. So much history, so much romance. I am alone in the original capital of the Roman Empire, to experience for myself the ‘City of Fountains’, where lovers whisper and doves cry.

Rome-ancing the stone

Romance is in the air as I walk the old streets of Rome, admiring the ancient churches and grand yet quaint buildings. Young Romeos whistle and holler their approval at the young females, yet I am desperate to catch my first glimpse

of the infamous Collosseum. Scenes from the film Gladiator come to life before my eyes. Despite this wonder of the world being a “colossal” tourist attraction, the almighty essence of the hollow shell, still maintains a considerable amount of dignity and awe, while representing Roman entertainment of the past in all its glory. It’s impossible not to be catapulted back through time, as images of the age of gladiators stalk the ruin. Make believers, dressed in Gladiator costumes, tout for tourism outside. Their robes and plastic swords flailing, they entrap those who come to visit the ruin, to pose for photos. The sun basks on this gargantuan figure, and the architecture proves itself to be millenniums before its time. I feel honoured, yet insignificant in these modern times, as we bow and appreciate arguably the most significant and influential civilisation of all time.

Travelling through time

Where today tourists queue to visit the historic site, thousands of years ago in 80 AD, the common public would clamour similarly to view the games, which were eventually banned. It is hard to comprehend the thousands of bloody deaths, which

have taken place here. The sheer vastness of the building almost eclipses the fact that this is a gravesite for outlaws and criminals back in the day. I am humbled. The size of a small football stadium, its uneven rim falls down to a stadium like tier, then drops once more, to the remains of where the blood thirsty crowds used to holler. The well crafted and pain stakingly well designed archways, of which there are hundreds, are the epitome of the Roman Empire’s stamp on civilization. Further down still, my eyes drop to the stage floor, where the games were held, but most of the ground has rotted away with time, and I can see the enclosed areas where the imprisoned gladiators and various vicious animals used to be held. The intricate little rooms, like a moss covered maize of death before the fights. Most without exception, spending the last moments of their lives here and before the crowds above them. It is difficult to take in the enormity. It has lived up to every expectation and more. But I must take a moment to myself and shut out the tour guide’s drone, to let the imagination roam, and find a place where ghosts dance and souls collide in the charged, breathtaking atmosphere. To give the historic site the appreciation it deserves.

Travel | 11

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Exploring the depths of the city

I am led by a sense of adventure which tells me that in whichever direction I turn, another hidden wonder will enchant me. The gothic buildings are so high that it is indeed a maze of beauty, as I head to explore the city centre. I consider my scrunched up map, and decide that perhaps I have taken a wrong turn. Random stone bathing sinks pulse water to the pebbled streets, as a secret courtyard comes into view. Following the old winding street, there is suddenly a busy town square of open space, and I realise that I have accidentally discovered the Piazza Navaro The old Roman buildings tower overhead, the colours of sand, lemon and peach, cocooning the Piazza Navona, to create a brilliant, colourful hive of activity. Beautiful balconies overflow with flowers and bubbles float through the air, encouraging children to commit parents to a hand held bubble making machine.

Bellissimo Roma

Typical Italian restaurants call out for customers and wafts of pizza, pasta and garlic drift on the breeze. One waiter in particular gets a little over excited as the suave ladies pass him by. He blows kisses and touts, and is sent inside by a more senior member of staff to stop scaring the custom away. Fantastic fountains, chipped from pale stone, create fallen horses and naked, mystical gods and heroes of the past. They are surrounded by crystal waters, which flow from their basins. Mischievous pigeons perch on the heads of these ancient statues, mocking and cooing, while preening themselves on the look

out for the next tourist to drop stray sandwich crumbs. The centre attracts Artists, talented individuals who display their work, their love of the eternal city evident. Captured in every paint stoke onto the canvass. Africans sell their multitude of leather bags and watches, one for every occasion, tormenting the passers by. A balloon seller delights children as a distorted arrangement is placed on his head. He creates gladiator swords and twisted head dresses of multi colours. The bicycle, bells chiming, and the vesper - always the vesper, trail through, separating the meanderors. An elegant horse and cart pulls through, complimenting the scene perfectly. The mellow sound of the saxophone drifts by, as the Santana guitarist is replaced by a relaxing melody that I can’t quite place. The sun beats down on this particularly hot afternoon, and I curse my choice of clothing as I had eyed the earlier clouds that have given way to the sunshine. I can feel my black t-shirt sticking to my chest, as I choose a café and relish the chilled water as it slips down my throat.

Couples drift, wandering through the colourful stalls, delicious aftershaves and expensive perfumes perusing them. The young Italians drape their arms around their loved ones in such an endearing fashion that it reminds me that I am alone in this endearing city. I am mellowed. I think I have found the most beautiful city in the world. A weekend is long enough to see all the main attractions and slip into the way of life here, but I could stay forever and still appreciate everything Rome has to offer. Sunshine, good food, music, history and stunning buildings attract gorgeous people and a laid back attitude. “When in Rome ...” has never seemed more appropriate. I sit in this cafe for hours, watching the world go by, enjoying the Italian ambience and easy style of living. I know that I will return again and again to this very spot, and will carry the inspiration it has created forever. This is what it means to be alive. Bella. AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

P ro m o t i o

Get windswept, sailing in Croatia

Sun, swim, sleep, eat, repeat – it doesn’t get any better than a summer on the Dalmatian coast. European Union next year you can By Kara Segedin

A Topdeck Croatia sailing break offers unprecedented relaxation over eight lazy days where the only thing you’ll have to worry about is whether to work on your tan or dive in for a dip. You’ll spend your days gliding along the crystal clear Adriatic with the sun blazing overhead and the refreshing sea breeze cooling you down. Come evening you’ll experience all the sights, dining and nightlife the Dalmatian coast is famous for.

Taking care of the sailing, cooking and cleaning is your local captain and his crew. Plus to make sure you’re having the best possible time, each Topdeck trip has its own representative on board taking care of all the little details. Once on dry land your rep will tell you all about the area’s history on a walking tour and track down some of the best restaurants and bars in town. For several years Croatia has been picked as one of Europe’s top up-andcoming destinations and each summer the number of visitor’s only increases. With the country set to join the

almost guarantee more and more tourists will uncover this super chilled-out spot. Topdeck’s high season sailing trips sold out in record time this year, but there are still spaces available at the beginning and end of the season (which also means lower, off season prices). So for some much needed r‘n’r (and sunshine) away from the hustle and bustle of London you can’t beat Croatia sailing this summer. For more information on great deals, head to Topdeck.travel/ austimes

12 | Jobs & Money

5 - 11 June 2012

Dollar Review

Australian Dollar hits six-month low

THE Australian Dollar opened the week on Monday 28th May in the region of 1.596 against the British Pound. It traded relatively flat for the majority of the week, before hitting its lowest level seen in six months. The reason for the decline was down to a number of facts, mainly external

to the South Pacific nations. The Euro tumbled to the lowest level seen in almost two years versus the US Dollar, a slide that was inspired by a lessthan-successful Italian debt auction. Carl Forcheski, of Societe Generale SA in New York, was of the opinion that “The market has lost confidence

in the euro”- a sentiment that is given weight by the 6.6% decline against the Dollar during May. Spain, in particular, is causing consternation among investors, as fears mount that it will be the next Greece. China, Australia’s largest trading partner, released data showing weaker than expected economic growth- a signal that demand for Australian goods may be in for a slight knock. The news, although negatively affecting the Aussie, spelled limited losses as technical indicators showed

that the sharp declines were too rapid. Looking ahead, significant data is due for release from the US, including a gauge of manufacturing; as well as the monthly jobs report released by government. Lawson, of NAB in Australia, said current markets are “very much data driven at the moment because of the huge number of really important data releases that we have tonight.” In conclusion, it seems likely that the Aussie will be hostage to foreign data for another week.

AUD / GBP: 0.630 AUD / EUR: 0.782 AUD / USD: 0.966 AUD / NZD: 1.287

Exchange rates as of 01 June 2012; 09h20

Join the High Flyers!

Cargo Broker -

Based in Kingston, Surrey for training for 12 months to then relocate to Sydney, Australia

Composed by Jesse Crooks Note: The above exchange rates are based on “interbank” rates. If you want to transfer money to or from Australia then please register/login or call us for a live dealing rate. Make use of a Rate Notifier to send you alerts when the Australian exchange rate reaches levels you are looking for.

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Generous starting salary for trainees, already established cargo brokers salary will be negotiable dependent on experience + benefits (after qualifying period). 10% commission on the gross margin on all charters sold to your clients. Commission is paid monthly, is uncapped and there is no lower threshold necessary before commission is paid. Smart Phone or PDA Expenses paid Solid training, mentoring and support mechanisms. Opportunity for global travel. Opportunity for career development. A friendly, fun and very exciting environment enhanced with regular company-funded social events.

Key Purpose

You are responsible for developing customer relationships that lead to a stable client list by targeting freight forwarders and shippers to introduce our services, create an awareness of our presence in this market and culminating in them using the services of Air Charter Service.

Key Competencies • • • • • • •

Sales Business Development Cold Calling Account Management Communication and negotiation Customer service Problem solving

A passion for aviation is essential. Additionally, we look for: • • • • • • • • • • •

Business verbal and written fluency in English is essential. Successful new business sales achievement. Calm disposition and positive outlook, particularly when working under pressure. Flexibility to change and adapt working hours and patterns if necessary. Trustworthy and honest in all aspects of the role. Self - motivated and happy to work with a high degree of autonomy. Committed to the aims and objectives of Air Charter Service. Team player who appreciates the value of co-operation within the local and international ACS team. Tenacious and willing to keep trying in challenging situations. Adaptable and responds well to feedback and change. Imaginative and dedicated to finding new ways to improve working practices.

**Applicants for this position must have the right to live and work in the UK and Australia**

WWTS CAN OFFER:  Administer and enforce laws of taxation within the UK and Internationally  Advice and consult on all matters of taxation  Accountancy Services and Formation of companies  20 years Australian tax experience

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Please e-mail your CV & covering letter to Gemma Pye – Human Resources Officer careers@aircharter.co.uk

Jobs & Money | 13

AustralianTimes.co.uk

Ask the Experts

Tier 2 graduate

I will be finishing my degree later this year and am currently working part-time for an employer who is interested in employing me on a permanent basis on completion of my studies. Will I be allowed to switch into UK employment from a student visa?

The UK Government has recently changed the immigration rules in order to allow graduates to switch into UK Tier 2 (General) employment. It sounds as though you are an ideal candidate for this permit. The UK Tier 2 (General) permit is open to recent graduates with a Bachelor, Master, PhD, PGCE or PGDE from a UK recognised or listed body. You will need to have a skilled job offer from a licensed UK employer and be paid

at least £20,000 per annum or the minimum appropriate rate for the occupation. Your employer will not be required to complete a resident labour market test (advertising the position) and the job will not be subject to the annual Tier 2 limit.

Breytenbachs Immigration JP Breytenbach

Director of Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants www.bic-immigration.com info@bic-immigration.com

Join the High Flyers!

Executive Jet Broker -

Based in Kingston, Surrey for training for 12 months to then relocate to Sydney, Australia Air Charter Service is globally recognised as one of the leading names in cargo and passenger air chartering. Founded in the UK in 1990, we now operate from 16 international offices with further expansion plans underway. Our consistent year-on-year growth is delivering record profits and in 2011, we were recognised as an Outstanding Company' for employee engagement and listed in the Sunday Times 100 Best SME Companies to Work for.

We Offer • • • • • • • •

Generous starting salary + benefits (after qualifying period). 10% commission on the gross margin on all charters sold to your clients. Commission is paid monthly, is uncapped and there is no lower threshold necessary before commission is paid. Smart Phone or PDA Expenses paid Solid training, mentoring and support mechanisms. Opportunity for global travel. Opportunity for career development. A friendly, fun and very exciting environment enhanced with regular company-funded social events.

Key Purpose

The successful applicant will charter aircraft including helicopters, private jets and wide-body airliners for a diverse client base consisting of governments, High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI), corporations and the travel industry.

Key Competencies • • • • • • •

Sales Business Development Cold Calling Account Management Communication and negotiation Customer service Problem solving

A passion for aviation is essential. Additionally, we look for: • • • • • • • • • • •

**Applicants for this position must have the right to live and work in the UK and Australia**

Please e-mail your CV & covering letter to Gemma Pye – Human Resources Officer careers@aircharter.co.uk

14 | Sport

5 - 11 June 2012

Ellyse Perry handed ultimatum: quit cricket or go Continued from p16...

United player and commit to training every day like everyone else does. “Or if she still wants to try and mix her cricket commitment with football, then perhaps she will need to find another club.” Perry is the first Australian woman to represent her country at a senior World Cup in two different sports. She played for the Matildas at last year’s women’s football World Cup in Germany, where her goal in Australia’s 3-1 quarter-final loss to Sweden was voted one of the top 10 goals of the tournament. She was also a key member of the Southern Stars squad at the 2009 cricket World Cup and isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.

“I’d absolutely love to still be involved with a W-League club next season,” Perry told AAP. “My first preference would be to still play for Canberra because the last three seasons I’ve played there have been really enjoyable. “But that’s the way sport is, you change clubs for any number of reasons, so I might have to have a look at another club.” But Perry says with her Matildas commitments - they play New Zealand in June - and her vying for selection for September’s Twenty20 World Cup squad, she won’t be looking for another W-League team until later this year. Perry admits her situation may not be ideal for clubs. “I certainly don’t want to have any negative impact on any team or

organisation I’m involved in,” Perry said. “The coach (Jitka Klimkova) very much wanted all the players in her squad to live in Canberra and be able to commit on a full-time basis and given my commitment with cricket my arrangement hasn’t been like that. “It’s certainly the coach’s prerogative and I completely understand and respect the direction she needs to take.” But Perry, who is also studying a degree in economics and social sciences, says she will continue the double act for as long as she can. “I’ve always maintained that if I really enjoy and love what I’m doing then I’ll continue doing it. “So at the moment it still seems feasible to play both and I just love it so much. It’s a huge part of my life so for now I will continue to play both.”-AAP

Stuart tinkering with style of attack Continued from p16... learned from game one and Stuart will tinker with the style of attack in game two. “We definitely played a little bit too sideways ... but that’s the beauty of having that game under our belt,” he said. “The great thing about footy is knowing you’ve got that plan and it’s a matter of going out there on the big stage and trying to do it.” Farah said the session with Stuart last Thursday at League Central in Sydney, was beneficial and gave the players a head start ahead of

meeting up for camp on Monday. “We looked at areas that we thought we could improve and areas that we did well on,” Farah said. “We spoke about things we needed to do in this camp. That allows us to come in and hit the ground running. “Usually it would have take a couple of days to digest the plans. “But we’ve put game one to bed and now it’s just important to focus on what is going to be a massive occasion next week in Sydney.” - AAP AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport

Aussies looking for International Cup glory

BREAKING AWAY: Hamish Jones shows his heels for Australia THE London Tag Rugby community is eagerly awaiting the popular International Cup tournament on Saturday, 9 June at Twyford Avenue Sports Ground in Acton which will see 15 teams battle it out across three divisions. London Australia will be represented in all three divisions which are Mixed A grade, Men’s & Mixed social grade. London Australia are the reigning champions in the Men’s division having never lost a match in three International Cup tournaments, while the Mixed A grade side has only ever lost one match which was the final at the last International Cup tournament. At the time of going to print, only the London Australia Mixed A grade side had been selected with arguably one of the strongest line ups ever, on paper. The team consists of: Elle Baltra, Dane Challenor, Kellie Dowdell, Lauren Jolly, Arron Lombardo, Adam Madigan ©, Tom Parsons, Phoebe Robins, Jay “Ringo” Wilkinson, Jessica Willemse, Nicholas Wong & Patrick Wright. The Aussies will face tough opposition in the Mixed A grade with the Great Britain & Ireland World Cup train on squad entering two teams as well as London Ireland and London New Zealand. In other news, Try Tag Rugby has announced a number of free taster sessions and a free ladies coaching day coming up in June. The free taster sessions will take place at Paradise Park in Highbury

on 12 June, Wimbledon Park in Southfields on 14 June and at King’s Meadow Park in Reading on 25 June. The sessions are a chance for curious players to try Tag Rugby out for the first time in a friendly, relaxed and welcoming environment. The Ladies coaching session will take place at Paradise Park in Highbury on 19 June. All welcome to attend and all information can be found at www.trytagrugby.com Meanwhile, Late Summer Tag Rugby registrations in London & Reading are now open. Late Summer competitions commence in late June/early July and are expected to break the current record season (Early Summer 2012) participation figures of 142 teams. Leagues will take place at Acton, Balham, Canada Water, Finsbury Park, Highbury, Hoxton, Reading, Richmond, Rotherhithe, Southfields, Wandsworth Town, West Ham and White City. If you would like to get involved in one of the fastest growing sports in London, new team and individual registrations are welcome. This is a great chance to develop a network of friends if you are new to London. To register for a Try Tag Rugby competition or event, go to www. trytagrugby.com or email info@ trytagrugby.com for more details. AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport

Sport | 15

AustralianTimes.co.uk

RUBDOWN

Goals are the key for Socceroo star Williams THE n

Young Australian Socceroo and Middlesbrough FC footballer Rhys Williams has a chat with JONATHAN WALDHEIM about being an Aussie in the UK, his footballing experiences here and his ambitions for the future. TOWARDS the end of this year’s UK football season, one Australian player was dreaming big. His team, Middlesbrough FC, were doing reasonably well in the English Championship and it wasn’t too big an ask that they make the stepup to the English Premier League. Alas, for Perth-born Rhys Williams, and his ‘Boro’ teammates, it wasn’t to be. Middlesbrough finished just out of Premiership play-off contention and the top flight escaped the north-east England club once more. Despite this, the future remains bright for the 23 year old Williams, who is showing some serious potential on these UK shores.

Australian Times: You chose to play for the Australian National team over India, Wales and England. Is Australian the nationality you feel the most attached to? Rhys Williams: Without question. I’m Australian, I was born and brought up there and every time I put the shirt on I get goose-bumps. I love playing for my country and long

may it continue. I want to be involved in every game I can and I wouldn’t change a thing in the world, right now. AT: What are your goals for the season ahead for Boro? RW: My main goal is promotion – it’s as simple as that. Apart from winning promotion, what else is there to aim for? Everyone wants to play in the Premier League and I’m no different. I’m very ambitious and winning promotion with Boro would be a very special achievement, so hopefully I can be part of that. AT: Boro manager, Tony Mowbray, has a reputation for getting his teams to play intricate passing football. Do you feel that your game has improved under his stewardship? RW: Definitely. Tony Mowbray has been massive to my career. As you know, I’ve just signed a four-and-a-half year contract, so he must have some faith in my ability. I think my game has come on and he’s moved me around the pitch as well, which has helped me improve as a player. He’s definitely been a great help to me and long may that continue. AT: How do you feel the Socceroos will perform in the lead up to the 2014 World Cup? And do you feel that you have a squad of high enough quality to compete with the world’s best? RW: Yes, of course. We’ve already

shown that in the last two World Cups, but we think we’re good enough and that’s all that matters. AT: What do you miss the most about Australia? RW: I think the weather and the lifestyle, really, and being with my family. My family are back home in Australia and it would be brilliant to be able to go home and spend more time with them and to enjoy the weather. But I enjoy being here as well. I met my fiancée in Perth but she’s actually a Geordie (from Newcastle, England) and this is home for us now. There’ll be plenty of time to think about moving back home when my playing career is over. AT:What is your favourite thing about living in the UK? RW: Football! Thanks Rhys and best of luck next season! Let’s hope Boro will be joining the big boys in 2013/14.

Glitch in the bizarro footy Matrix By Will Denton

IF you’ve come here looking for answers to the weekend’s results, think again because there are none. Either the whole world has been sucked into an alternate dimension or the footy gods are having a bit of fun up there. Ok, let’s try and work with the facts: 1. Richmond ground out a superb win over the Saints. Maybe a bit of a shock but hey, the Tigers are on the up and are sick of being rubbish. Fair enough. 2. Swans destroy the Dogs by 92. Sydney were back at home and remembered how to play footy. Plus, the Dogs are rubbish. 3. Geelong eventually dispatched the Giants. After putting up a spirited first half the young bodies of GWS ran out of puff and lost by 10 goals. On the surface, about right, except for the fact that the Cats leading goal kicker was Harry Taylor – fullback extraordinaire! Just a lazy six for the bloke that usually shores up defence. 4. Gary Ablett notches up 53 possessions against the ‘Pies. That’s one more disposal than his team’s entire score and they lose the match by 97. Amazing stuff. 5. Freo not only found a way to come back, they found out where the goals were and somehow managed to

score 12 of them. The Crows won as expected, although it felt like a win for the purple army as they witnessed a game plan that included an actual forward line this week. 6. Buddy boots 13 goals. Unlucky for some? No, the Kangaroos are still rubbish. Not since Jason Dunstall sported a rather luscious mullet have we seen a bag this big. His haul of 82 points was more than the entire NMFC score. Incredible. 7. Upsets. Now, usually there’s one, possibly two big surprises each week, but three in 12 hours? This where I think there has been a glitch in the Matrix. Port Adelaide totally dismantles Carlton. Although it was played on an ice rink and tarpaulins outnumbered spectators, the Power showed their fan that they can play. That and the Blues are softer than white chocolate mousse whipped by Angels. The Dees somehow figured out that they are, by definition a footy team and funnily enough got a win over the Bombers. Funny that. Finally, it seems Michael Voss’ experiment to clone himself has paid off as his team of Ranga’s got a thrilling win over adder leaders, the Eagles. Quite simply, an amazing weekend of bizarro footy.

AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport

Black Caviar in countdown Aussie pole vaulters aim high for London debut mode for England AUSTRALIAN pole vaulter Alana Boyd concedes she will probably have to set a new personal best if she is to finish on the podium at the London Olympics. Boyd set a new Australian record when she cleared 4.76m at an interclub meet in Perth in February, beating Kim Howe's national women's record of 4.72m. The 28-year-old heads to her second Olympics confident in the knowledge she's in career-best form. But Boyd knows she faces stiff competition in her bid to claim a medal. Russian Yelena Isinbayeva, who holds the world record at 5.06m, is the one to beat in London, while American Jenn Suhr, Brazilian Fabiana Murer and Germany's Martina Strutz are others to possess better PBs than Boyd. Boyd said the pressure-cooker environment of the Olympics could open the door for any of the top women to medal, especially if conditions aren't great. "A podium finish would be fantastic. If you make the final, anyone's a chance at a medal," Boyd said on Thursday. "I think 4.75m came third at the last Olympics. "The standard has probably improved since then and obviously an Olympic year everyone steps it up a little bit, so it's probably going to take a little bit higher to finish in the medals. "But you never know with the conditions in London. "It may not be conducive to high jumping and it's just a matter of who can hold their form and nerve and go in there and fight for the medal." Boyd will be joined in London by

COUNTDOWN TO THE

LONDON OLYMPICS 7 weeks to go

AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport

Unforgettable Australian Olympic moments

Continued from p16...

brilliant best in the Goodwood in her second go in Adelaide. “She has stayed on or thereabouts the mark since. “I’ve given her four gallops - a couple of them well within herself and a couple of them a bit stronger. “For me she’s the same old Black Caviar that we’ve all got very close to.”

Nolen said he thought the mare had the right demeanour to handle her first plane trip. “She’s a pretty relaxed sort of animal,” he said. “She’s not the best traveller but she’s done a fair bit of it and has got a lot better.” Black Caviar is the dominant favourite for the Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1200m) on June 23. - AAP

Melbourne 1956: Dawn Fraser begins her golden Aussie legacy

her 18-year-old training partner Liz Parnov, whose dad Alex Parnov is Australia's master pole vault coach. Parnov had to move her university exams forward in order to accommodate her trip to London, and said she was hoping to match her personal best of 4.50m at her first Olympics. "I've jumped reasonably well in the rain, so if it does rain I'm not too concerned because I seem to be all right in those conditions," Parnov said. "So maybe if it rains that could be an advantage to me. "It feels good going to a major championship without any pressure or expectations. You can just go there and relax and do your best, and that's when I seem to perform at my best." - AAP

Picture this. A young, home nation stands on the precipice of hosting its first ever Olympic Games. Melbourne is the city, 1956 the year. The hopes of Australia rest on the tender shoulders of a star in the making - a swimmer who will go on to become a household name around the globe - Dawn Fraser. Despite the pressure of a home Games, her very first games and a strong field, Fraser makes the 100m Women’s Freestyle race her own, claiming gold in spectacular fashion. It is an event she will go on to dominate for the next two Olympic Games (winning gold at both Rome 1960 and Tokyo 1964). It was the start of a golden age for Australian swimming, and Fraser wasn’t content with just individual success. She helped the 4x100m Women’s Freestyle Relay team to gold as well. As we well know now, Dawn Fraser is an Australian legend and an Olympic icon. Her first gold medal will go down as one of our country’s greatest Olympic triumphs of all time.

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Aussies set to take on the world P14

SECRET MEETING TO SAVE BLUES’ ORIGIN n Pearce reveals secret meeting with Stuart, Farah and Carney to prevent series whitewash. MITCHELL Pearce has backed Todd Carney to put his uninspiring NSW debut behind him and come out firing in next Wednesday’s second State of Origin clash in Sydney. Carney was far from his best in Melbourne as the Blues went down 18-10 but Pearce said a secret meeting between Blues coach Ricky Stuart and his playmakers Pearce, Carney and Robbie Farah last week can help lay the foundations to prevent a series whitewash in Sydney. Victory will see the Maroons wrap up a seventh successive series win and Pearce backed 2010 Dally M Medallist Carney to shine. “I think he said he was pretty nervous, he certainly looked nervous before the game, which I think everyone was so he’ll be a lot better for that,” Pearce said. “Now he’s going to go out there knowing what to expect. I spoke to him last night and he was saying how he’s looking forward to relaxing in camp and enjoying it and not being so uptight, so I think he’ll be great for us.” Pearce said the return of Anthony Watmough to the squad following the injury to Tony Williams would be a boost and said continuity around the team is a good thing. Tim Grant is the only rookie, and Pearce said the experienced Watmough, who has played seven Origins, is a good man to bring in. “He brings good leg speed off the bench and big Timmy Grant’s been playing good for Penrith,” Pearce said. “He’s a tough, tough player, he’s pretty straight up and down and he’ll be perfect starting the game I think to get us on the front foot.” The Sydney Roosters star admitted lessons needed to be ...continued on p14

Black Caviar on her way to England

THE countdown to Black Caviar’s overseas odyssey has begun in earnest with the mare having a solid gallop at Caulfield on Monday, two days ahead of her departure for England. Race jockey Luke Nolen put the unbeaten champion through her paces on a bleak Melbourne morning and was pleased with her work. Black Caviar goes to England to contest the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot with only English superstar Frankel rated above her on the international rankings. “She worked soundly,” Nolen told Sydney’s Sky Sports Radio. “The weather was quite inclement. “From my vantage point she worked nice and ran her last 600 (metres) quite stylishly under testing conditions on the track this morning. “I was very happy with her. “She’s close to the mark.” Nolen said Black Caviar had proven her fitness at her last start in the Goodwood at Morphettville after a win in the Robert Sangster Stakes that was less impressive. “She was a bit rusty on her first trip to Adelaide then back to her ...continued on p15

Quit cricket or go, Perry told

BIZARRO FOOTY A glitch in the AFL matrix? Get The Rubdown | p15

HE KNOWS KUNG-FU: The Eagles player Adam Selwood punches the ball clear during his team’s shock 16.6.102 - 15.10.100 lost to the resurgent Lion (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

DESPITE being handed an ultimatum by her W-League club to quit cricket or be sacked, dual international Ellyse Perry is adamant she can still do it all. Perry, a women’s Ashes-winning pace bowler and Matildas World Cup defender, has successfully split her time between cricket and football since first selected at age 16 to represent her country in both sports. She played her first cricket international in July 2007 before earning her debut football cap a month later. But Canberra United chief executive Heather Reid says the W-League club need the 21-year-old to commit fully to them or move on. “We have basically given Ellyse an ultimatum,” Reid told ABC Grandstand on Tuesday. “Ellyse needs to choose whether she wants to be a full-time Canberra ...continued on p14