12 - 18 June 2012 – Issue: 416
EDINBURGH, HERE WE COME Awesome Aussie acts set for Fringe
GET THE HUMP
OLYMPICS COUNTDOWN
Put Egypt back on the travel map
Dutch smoke Hockeyroos in London
TRAVEL P7
ENTERTAINMENT P6
SPORT P11
41434
CLAIM YOUR TAX REFUND TODAY! TAX, FINANCIAL AND MIGRATION EXPERTS: Money Transfers, Tax Refunds, Visas, Limited Companies & Accounting, UK Bank Accounts, CV & Job Assistance, Travel Clinic, Shipping, Legal and Umbrella Services
www.1stcontact.com/mast2
RELEASE AUSSIE LAWYER, NOW n
Australian government has joined Europe in efforts to gain the release of an ICC team in Libya which includes young Australian lawyer, Melinda Taylor, accused of spying. THE federal government will team up with its European counterparts to push for the quick release of Australian lawyer Melinda Taylor, who has been detained in Libya while on a legal mission and accused of spying. Ms Taylor, a 36-year-old mother of one from Queensland, was arrested in Zintan on Thursday while representing Seif al-Islam, the son of the late former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Seif al-Islam faces being charged by the International Criminal Court (ICC) with crimes against humanity while trying to put down a bloody revolt in the former north Africa dictatorship last year. Ms Taylor, an ICC defence counsel, was being “detained in some form” but was not in jail, Prime Minister Julia Gillard said on Monday. Her three colleagues – Russian senior adviser Alexander Khodakov, Spanish head of counsel support Esteban Peralta Losilla and Lebanese translator Helene Assaf – were also being held, the ICC said. But Libyan authorities have denied this saying only that Ms Taylor and Ms Assaf were detained, while Mr Khodakov and Mr Losilla stayed behind voluntarily while the matter was being dealt with. Ms Gillard said Ms Taylor was “safe and well” and Australia would work with the governments of Spain, Russia and Lebanon as well as the European Union to press for the release of the ICC staff. “We want to see Ms Taylor’s detention come to an end as soon
In association with
YOUNG RISE FOR MONARCHY Jubilee swells Aussie royalist hearts and ranks | p2 and 3 as possible,” she told reporters in Canberra. Ms Taylor’s family issued a statement through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade asking for their privacy to be respected.
“Our thoughts, at this time, are very much with our daughter, Melinda, and her colleagues,” they said. Ms Gillard called on the Libyan government to resolve the matter quickly, saying Australia was
Go to: AustralianTimes.co.uk/move-to-australia
0808 141 2314
Image: Julien Behal/PA Wire
“working strongly” to this end. Australia’s ambassador-designate to Libya, David Ritchie, is travelling to the country to assist Ms Taylor and ...continued on p3
Once in decade storm events batter Perth
WILD weather forecast for vast tracts of Western Australia on Tuesday was likely to wreak as much havoc as Sunday’s storms, emergency services predict. A large part of the state’s south was expected to be hit late on Tuesday by winds of about 125km/h, equivalent to a category two cyclone, Bureau of Meteorology spokesman Grahame Reader said. The area spans from Geraldton in the Mid West region to Southern Cross in the Wheatbelt to Israelite Bay in the Goldfields-Esperance region. Mr Reader said the initial impact would be in the southwest corner of the state, moving up to Perth during the evening, then peaking at around midnight WST. The wild weather would begin to ease on Wednesday morning, he said. It was rare - a once in 10 years event - for Perth to be hit by three major storms in just a few days, he said. The fourth strongest wind gust on record hit the city on Sunday, clocking 146km/h. It came three days after a tornado swept through the northern suburbs of Dianella and Morley, damaging ...continued on p3
2 | News
12 - 18 June 2012
A two-fingered salute to those republicans, and I loved it
n
The Monarchy just gave a great big two-fingered salute to the doubters, the haters and the republican critics. Publisher: Bryce Lowry Editor: Tim Martin Production/Design: Jackie Lampard Australia Editor: Ashlea Maher Music Editor: Paul Judge Contributors: Bianca Soldani, Shannon Crane, Kate Ausburn, Sara Newman, Justin Ng, Phill Browne, Kristy Kenny, Carmen Allan, Mario Hannah, Amy Fallon, Rose Callaghan, Lesley Slade, Simon Kleinig, Kris
Griffiths, Guy Logan, Nathan Motton, JP Breytenbach, Cameron Jenkins, Will Denton, Leigh Johnston, Lee Crossley, Shane Jones, Adrian Craddock, Liam Flanagan, Emily Banyard, Mel Edwards, Raquel Messi Advertising Manager: Dominic Young Directors: P Atherton, J Durrant N Durrant, R Phillips and A Laird Additional content:
WHO ARE WE? Australian Times is written and compiled by young Australian journalists living in the UK. Contributing on a volunteer basis, they are uniquely placed to reflect the interests, opinions and attitudes of our community. If you would like to join us, contact info@australiantimes.co.uk ADDRESS: Unit 7C, Commodore House Battersea Reach, London SW18 1TW TEL: 0845 456 4910 EMAIL: info@australiantimes.co.uk
WEBSITE:
The paper used to print this publication has been sourced from sustainable forests (farmed trees). Please reduce waste by recycling your copy or pass it on others. DISCLAIMER The printed opinions of advertisers and writers are theirs and not necessarily shared by Blue Sky Publications Ltd. Unless otherwise stated, copyright of all original materials is held by Blue Sky Publications Ltd. OFFICIAL MEDIA SPONSORS OF THE FOLLOWING ORGANISATIONS:
the hard word > NATHAN MOTTON
THE world’s largest ever parade of boats, 1,000 in all, sailed down the Thames last week for the Jubilee. 1.2 million people lined the river in truly awful conditions, to watch the historic occasion while an average audience of 10.3 million people watched on TV. 10,000 ticket-holders had the best seats in the house for the Jubilee concert on Monday evening but behind them stood over 500,000 on The Mall and in St James’s Park while television viewing audience’s peaked at 17 million, making it the most watched programme of the year. A million more turned out for the carriage procession on Tuesday. These are undoubtedly phenomenal numbers. But with it, like any Royal occasion, of course came the criticism. That most negative soul, Polly Toynbee, at The Guardian screamed: “What are we celebrating? A singularly undistinguished family’s hold on the nation, a mirage of nationhood, a majestic delusion.” Graham Smith, Chief Executive of Republic whinged: “It’s not chosen by the people, doesn’t represent the people, and as an institution it isn’t fit for purpose,” while a handful of his little cronies ‘protested’ over the weekend with placards that read “royal dictators not welcome.” What nonsense. I stood along the Thames for that unforgettable river pageant. It, like everyone else, was literally left frozen. But that was merely an afterthought.
Your Say On: Olympic swimmers D’Arcy and Monk in US guns photos
Did these guys break the law? Did they offend any normal, rational person? Did they hurt anybody? No. All they did was go out and do what tourists do, posing in photos no different to thousands of others. Australia really has become a country full of vicious control freaks. Jemand AustralianTimes.co.uk/news Totally agree! It’s a tourist photo. Shooting is an Olympic sport – it’s a total over reaction. TruBlu AustralianTimes.co.uk/news I don’t know if they broke any American laws but those guns are illegal in any intelligent country and the Olympics is about sport and sportsmen and women fostering peace to the planet. I for one am offended, ok. Admittedly, it’s a smack on the wrist scenario but how many chances do these
? What’s your view
Two days later I returned to the celebrations, to watch the carriage procession make its way along The Mall, before scurrying along the famous strip with hundreds of thousands of others to get a view of the Queen, and kings and queens to be, on the Buckingham Palace balcony as the RAF soared overhead. It was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, and it will stay with me forever. Image: Julien Behal/PA Wire The Jubilee was a celebration of the monarchy and a nation. for an 86-year-old woman born into a It provided the entire country with a position of privilege? This country’s chance to forget the troubles of the national identity is so indelibly linked ‘real world’, and celebrate with friends with having a monarch, so why are and family, or complete strangers. some so determined to throw it all Britons were actually talking to each away? other! The Jubilee was a nod to the fact Just weeks away from London 2012, that a monarchy can live and thrive it was also a timely reminder that the alongside a democracy. Why does it Brits know how to put on a bloody have to be one or the other? Queen good show. Elizabeth II wields no political power Kill-joys may well argue the yet is a glowing, tangible reminder of money to throw the party was money this country’s rich history. that wasn’t there to be spent in the Long may her heirs uphold the first place, but in fact the events position with as much aplomb. Long themselves were funded privately. may the monarchy continue and long How much are we taxpayers forking may we let our hair down once in a out for the Olympics? But even the while. most vehement republican could not God save the Queen. deny the global PR generated by Her Maj’s celebration. Why is it so wrong to get swept up in the mystique of it all? Why is it so AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices wrong to possess such a high regard
guys want? On the other hand, it’s obvious from the look on their faces that they have the combined IQ of a goldfish. Maybe they will swim like fish and bring back gold. Andy McCoy AustralianTimes.co.uk/news What a load of rubbish. I wonder if the shooting team would get in trouble for posing in a Speedo store? Well, apart from the massive un-cool factor. Ben Jeffrey Facebook.com/AustralianTimes “No further action will be taken” - hth could it? They did nothing wrong. What’s our country coming to? Since they tightened up gun laws, there’s more gun crime than there’s ever been. j houge AustralianTimes.co.uk/news D’Arcy is a bum, but there shouldn’t be any issue with these pictures. Ben Story AustralianTimes.co.uk/news Sanctions for being a twat? Could be a lot of that going ‘round. James Love Facebook.com/AustralianTimes
D’Arcy and Monk packed some heat (via Facebook) Everyone is entitled to be stupid once they set foot in America. When in Rome... Scott Ferguson Facebook.com/AustralianTimes
On: A two-fingered Jubilee salute to those republicans
God save The Queen, and may the Monarch reign forever. I was proud to vote for the Monarchy back in Australia when we had the referendum, and it still annoys me that the republican debate still goes on. Gillard should give up on the debate, she is Welsh born and should know better. Hey, only my opinion. Grant Stephenson AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices
Share your comments on these and more stories online: AustralianTimes.co.uk
News | 3
AustralianTimes.co.uk
Australian lawyer arrested on suspicion of spying in Libya Continued from p1... plans to get there as soon as possible although a timeframe is not yet clear. Foreign Minister Bob Carr said his Libyan counterpart, Muhamed Aziz, had assured him Ms Taylor was safe. “I emphasised our strong interest in seeing the matter resolved quickly and urged Mr Aziz to facilitate full consular access to Ms Taylor,” Senator Carr said, adding he had also been in contact with The Hague-based ICC. International wire reports have quoted a Libyan official as saying Ms Taylor was being investigated for spying after being “surprised” exchanging a letter with Seif al-Islam. Ahmed Jehani, Libya’s envoy to the international tribunal, said he had
seen the letter. “According to Libyan law, it would be spying, communication with the enemy,” he said. Mr Jehani also said only Ms Taylor and Ms Assaf were in detention. Federal opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Julie Bishop backed government calls for Ms Taylor’s release, saying there may be some misunderstanding that Seif al-Islam was entitled to a fair trial. “Libya must ensure that as a fledgling democracy it defends people’s right to a defence,” she told ABC television. - AAP AustralianTimes.co.uk/news
WA braces for more cyclone-like storms Continued from p1...
homes and businesses, uprooting trees and hurling shopping trolleys through the air. Sunday’s storm brought down 120 power lines, ripped the roof off a block of units, tore boats free from moorings and even lifted a circus tent from the ground. Emergency Services Minister Troy Buswell said the storm was unprecedented both in terms of severity and the size of the affected area. Mr Buswell said at least 10 hospitals lost power during the storm and were forced to use generators. Several schools had to suspend classes on Monday because of damaged roofs and lack of power. Mr Buswell said 52 traffic lights were not operating but major intersections were either being manned by police or powered by generators. “This week shapes to be a difficult week for our state and particular for the southwest in terms of dealing with storms,” Mr Buswell told reporters. “Preliminary advice is that storm event (on Tuesday) will be as significant as yesterday’s event and
may well extend further to the east.” While electricity utility Western Power earlier on Monday said it could take up to a week to restore power to 100,000 homes, Mr Buswell said he was reluctant to predict how long it would take. “It is difficult to give an exact end point because at the moment, we can’t predict the impact of tomorrow night’s storm event on the electricity network,” he said. Power had been restored to more than 50,000 homes since Sunday’s storm struck. Western Power was focusing on removing dangers - particularly fallen live power lines - before restoring energy supply. Mr Buswell said damage from Tuesday’s storms could be exacerbated by remaining debris that emergency services workers were currently battling to clear. The State Emergency Service had received more than 700 requests for assistance, Fire and Emergency Services Authority of WA spokesman Brad Stringer said.- AAP AustralianTimes.co.uk/news
Young Australians are embracing the monarchy WHILE octogenarian Queen Elizabeth shows no sign of giving up the throne, the ranks of her supporters down under appear to be getting younger. A high tea celebrating the Queen’s 86th birthday and Diamond Jubilee in Sydney on Monday, was told by the head of the Australian Monarchist League Philip Benwell, that the movement had rallied following a decline in membership around a decade ago. “In the early 2000s we lost large numbers of members as they passed on,” Mr Benwell said “We now have greater numbers with the younger people as we’ve moved into the internet (age).” Today, almost half of the AML’s members are under 30, Mr Benwell said. Among them is 23-year old James Flynn, the head of Sydney Young Monarchists and the organiser of the high tea, which was promoted via the social networking site, Facebook. Mr Flynn said his interest in the Queen sprang from personal rather than inherited reasons. “My grandfather and mother are
British by citizenship, but (joining the AML) was more of a personal interest for me,” he said. “I think the Queen represents a political system and greater stability, and what we’re able to achieve in democracy.” Politics plays a big role in attracting younger people to monarchist movements, a difference they say that distinguishes them from an older generation lured by the celebritystatus of the royal family. “We’re not a fan club for the Queen, but we recognise what she represents,” Mr Flynn said. The young monarchists hope to swell their ranks by appealing to “the sort of people who engage in these (political) conversations,” Mr Flynn said. And their medium, of course, will be Facebook. A recent Roy Morgan poll showed 58 per cent of Australians supported the monarchy, a six per cent increase compared to October. - AAP AustralianTimes.co.uk/news
4 | Voices
12 - 18 June 2012
Is there such thing as Tube love? tube talk > SANDRA TAHMASBY
WE all know that eye contact on the Tube can be an awkward situation, and so often I find myself reading the different advertisements plastered along the walls above the heads of my fellow commuters, if nothing else but to avoid their eyes. On the Tube you will find advertisements that make you wish you were anywhere but here (and by here I mean on the way to work). They entice you with weekend trips to the south of France and almost always have a picture of a hunky man that
makes you hate your life that little bit more, which is perhaps exactly the way these advertisers want us to feel... (I’m booking my trip to France as we speak!). Have you seen the advertisements trying to sell us pet insurance? On a scale of one to 10... I’d rate this about a minus five on the importance factor in my life. But still, it grabs my attention. Then there’s the one that catches my eye more than anything else: “YOUR DREAM DATE COULD BE SITTING UNDER THIS SIGN. “ Quick glance around... you mean the old guy with the creepy stare? Hmmm, don’t think so! OK, I know I shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but this guy is making single life seem pretty good
right now. Which makes me think, as I see couples on the Tube... how did they meet? Did they lock eyes across the tube one morning during peak hour, or perhaps they brushed hands as they both reached for the same railing to keep their balance. Or did she fall into his arms as the Tube came to a jolting stop? Maybe it was a drunken encounter on the Tube ride home one Friday evening, as they got chatting to the cute stranger seated next to them. Note: drunken conversation is the only exception to the silence on the Tube rule. More often than not, there is always that couple who enjoy sharing public displays of affection, making us all a
little uncomfortable (to say the least). Due to the lack of personal space already on the Tube, the pashing couple only add to our morbid curiosity and resistance to stare, which is of course impossible. As much as this mushy display makes us feel ill, we secretly hope for our own special someone to share an intimate moment on the Tube. So just think, the next time you jump on the Tube you could be sitting next to the man or woman of your dreams, and out of the 3.4 million commuters weekly... those are pretty good odds! NB: To the cute tall guy with the brown hair in the green jacket who got on at Clapham South and got off at London Bridge... call me!
Have you found love on the Tube? Tell us at AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices
A rare award before an adoring crowd n
Speaking in London, after receiving his Order of Merit medal, John Howard relived his time in office and offered his thoughts on the future. By Will Fitzgibbon FORMER Prime Minister John Howard was the special guest as part of the Institute’s World Leaders Series. And he would have felt right at home. The portraits of erminegowned British kings and queens that dominate the Nash Room at the Institute of Directors (IoD) on Pall Mall looked down upon the monarchist crusader. The event was organised by Australian Liberals Abroad, whose enthusiastic members man the biggest polling booth at every federal election; the one at Australia House in London. Organisers said they had been receiving calls throughout the day from those on the waiting list “crying down the phone” to be allowed to attend. In a relaxed tête-à-tête with IoD Chief Operating Officer Andrew Main Wilson and speaking from a small chesterfield armchair that would have recalled the famous $10,000 green chesterfield lounge suite in his parliamentary office, John Howard casually addressed a 200-strong audience. Earlier in the day, the Queen had appointed Mr Howard as a member of the Order of Merit (OM) during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace. Howard is the first Australian prime minister to receive the award, which honours those who achieve “exceptional distinction” in the arts, learning, sciences and other areas such as public service. It just goes to show that living at home until you are 32 is no barrier to success. In the audience were Howard’s wife, Jeanette, and a close friend of the former Liberal leader, Ian Duncan-Smith, British Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. The event was a gathering of people with “centre-right affections,” said Mr Howard, in introductory remarks fused with humour and gravity. He would have known he was in safe company by the amount of nodding heads and beatific smiles accompanying his words. Mr Howard spoke and fielded questions about foreign policy, finance and cricket. As is the right of a man whose life has spanned the premiere of Gone With the Wind and the float of Facebook and who led Australia for a good decade in between, Mr Howard began the evening with a précis of what he believed to be the two most important events of the last 30 years: the end of the Cold War through the efforts of “what our side did” and the success of “globalisation
AAP Image/Dan Peled
[and] competitive market capitalism” in lifting millions of people out of poverty. In a staunch defence of business, Mr Howard rallied the business-heavy audience by saying “the global financial crisis isn’t due to excesses of capitalism.” An informal question and answer session followed in which Mr Howard seemed at ease. He even braved humour, making light of the current scandal involving the British Conservative Party’s relations to Rupert Murdoch. On former American President George W Bush, Mr Howard praised the Texan as “a good friend of mine” but admitted that “he didn’t always present as well on television as he could have.” In the midst of British financial gloom, the business audience was especially interested in the predictions and prescriptions of the Australian leader who many praise for having reduced national debt and kept unemployment low. “He would have done very well here,” murmured one member of the audience. More questions followed, including on the financial risks of “caring” and “socialist governments” in Europe and the possibility of an “Anglospheric” Union. While at times cupping a hand to his ear like a deaf grandfather at the end of a Christmas dinner table, 72 year old Howard answered without hesitation across diverse subjects. Mr Howard repeated his list of proudest achievements, including gun control, East Timor intervention and low unemployment. He confirmed that “getting rid of the no disadvantage test,” a contentious element of the Work Choices legislation that many attribute to his 2007 election defeat, was an error. Not because the law was wrong, Mr Howard suggested, but because it allowed unions to run a successful scare campaign. “We left Australia a stronger, prouder and more prosperous country,” resumed Mr Howard in a perfect sound bite testifying to his political experience. AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices
Voices | 5
AustralianTimes.co.uk
Berry delicious n
Only a fool would miss out on the sensational British summer strawberries.
chris’s
kitchen > CHRIS ARK
IT’S (apparently) summer and time to put strawberries at the top of your deelish order list. As the humidity and warmer showers of rain set in, the farmers are starting to send us the crates of strawberries we all long for. British strawberries are considered amongst the best, if not the best, in the world. Not far from London, Kent is one of the best strawberry growing regions to look out for the on the shelves. I’m even hearing about groups of mates hitting the countryside to go strawberry picking and making a very English day of it. Rumors and reports say that strawberries have teeth whitening properties but we are going to stick to the culinary uses of this berry. When looking for strawberries check the origin of the grower. Strawberries do not ripen after picking, so imported strawberries will be hard and have an undeveloped
flavor. Look for crisp green leaves at the base and a deep red color in the fruit. Check the bottom of the container for dryness and unbruised fruit. The scent of the strawberries is the best indication the fruit is ripe. After all, strawberries are related to the rose family of plants. The strawberry is a versatile fruit and has a number of uses. We make jams, chutney’s, tarts, cakes, smoothies, alcoholic cocktails and sweet and savory dishes with the delicate flavor. If you spot some plush bowls of the red gems on the market stalls, grab a bargain and make some jam to store for the cold months ahead. Wimbledon may be famous for strawberries and cream, but let me share with you another taste bomb of a dessert using the juicy ruby sensations. The ‘strawberry fool’ is a favorite amongst the British and a staple on many menus in London’s restaurants. Simple but with the ripest and highest quality of strawberries used you will not be disappointed.
Strawberry Fool What you need for 4 mates: • 450g of fresh strawberries • 175g of icing sugar • 750mlof double cream • 500ml of plain yoghurt
What to do:
• Place a third of the strawberries in a food processor with the icing sugar and blend to make a purée. You may have to do this in batches. • Chop the remaining fruit and place
The wonderful world of SW19 and Wimbledon tennis n
Wimbledon! How can one word conjure so many images and emotions at once? Our London adventurer got her tennis on, joined ‘The Queue’ and ticked off #13 on her London Top 100 list by visiting the All England Lawn Tennis Club. bron in
the don BRONWYN SPENCER
THE sun is out and summer is definitely here so it is time to get prepared for a London summer must do – the Wimbledon Tennis Championships. For two weeks every June/July, south west London is the focus of media, players and spectators from across the world. After many years of cheering on the tennis champs playing at Wimbledon’s All England Lawn Tennis Club from my arm chair at home, last year I got the chance to cheer them on for real. Out of all my London experiences I would have to say that this is the one that fits a London summer to a tee. If you’re organised, you can apply for tickets to Wimbledon in the yearly ballot but for those of you , who like me, are far more on the disorganised side - joining ‘The Queue’ on the day is the way to go (and quite a bit of fun). Many people bring along their tents and camp chairs and spend the night waiting in line for the precious Centre Court or high court tickets. For me, I was lucky enough to live within walking distance so even though it was an early start I
got to sleep in the comfort of my own bed. I joined the crowds in the queue about 7.30 am and managed to get a £20 General Admission ticket to the grounds by 10am. Being a part of the queue is part of the Wimbledon experience and I would have to say one of the most perfectly organised events. You get a queue card and an information pamphlet – not to mention a variety of food and entertainment vendors to keep you occupied and entertained while you wait. However, the real fun starts once you get inside the gates. While you may not get to see a match on the Centre Court, you can still get your fair share of tennis. With plenty of courts for smaller qualifying games you can watch a great match while taking in the atmosphere. You can even try your luck at spotting a hotshot on a warm up court! The best part about the atmosphere at Wimbledon is that everyone is so friendly and pleasant (a great change from normal London). The uniforms worn by hosts, umpires and staff are perfectly matched, ironed and worn and they all seem to proudly wear their green, purple and white. Even the flowers in the potted plants match! The only people that seem to be serious are the ball boys and girls. Apparently it takes months of training to gain this honour and they must spend all of it learning how to not smile! If you are a serious tennis aficionado and need to watch the professional matches – don’t fear, you can watch them from the ‘Murray Mound’ (formerly known as ‘Henman Hill’). It is an amphitheatre type setting where you can watch the centre court match on a massive screen. You can still hear the
cheers from inside the stadium while you watch the players fight it out for the title. This is also a perfect spot to relax, grab a bite to eat or some Pimms to drink – or even try the traditional strawberries and cream that Wimbledon is so famous for. And guess what? This isn’t Australia, so you are even allowed to bring your own picnic in! But if watching the pro’s on a big screen is not your thing, then no worries - from two o’clock in the afternoon you can line up again for Centre Court tickets that have been handed in from people leaving through the front gates. They only cost £5, with the proceeds going to charity. We held out long enough to get the ‘second chance’ Centre Court tickets and got into our seats in time to see our very own Jelena Dokic followed by the British favourite Andy Murray. Luckily for us Centre Court has the retractable roof and when the rain came – as it inevitably does – we still got to watch the rest of our match. It’s a long day with a lot of waiting around but it is an absolute must on London’s Top 100. If I were to rank the things that I do in London – this would be Number 1! AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices
in a large bowl, sprinkle over the castor sugar and set aside. • Whip the cream in a very large bowl until soft peaks have formed then stir in the yoghurt, chopped strawberries and the purée. • Spoon into large bowls and refrigerate until ready to serve.
AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices
6 | Entertainment What we’re following #TheVoiceAu
@declanf If only Seal could help Julia Gillard with her voice @tomsteinfort Really disappointed we can’t find out what Nick D’Arcy and Kenrick Monk think about the #thevoiceau tonight due to social media ban @adamliaw So glad that Sarah de Bono can now be known for her singing voice instead of just the years of her face appearing on matchboxes @DavidCampbell73 The Wiggles just called.. Seal, you are in! #skivvy @operation_rosie Nooooo!! Why would you pick Darren?! I mean, like, whatever, this show is so lame @KeithUrban Good Lord @DianaRouvas Absolutely slayed me. Check out what we’re following today on AustralianTimes.co.uk and follow us on Twitter @AustralianTimes
What’s On Colin Hay 16 June @ Bush Hall Homelanz 16 June @ Boston Manor Park Hermitude 2 July @ Barfly, Camden Hilltop Hoods 4 July @ Electric Ballroom Wolfmother 6 July @ IndigO2, Cold Chisel 11 July @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, 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
12 - 18 June 2012
Aussies get a Fringe, surf’s up for the Beach Boys and Oz without the cringe n
The Australian bill for Edinburgh Fringe is taking shape while back home The Beach Boys are set to ride a wave of nostalgia and an unknown Tassie singer takes us to the world. music from the
motherland > PAUL JUDGE
Large Australian contingent heading to Edinburgh Fringe
IF you’re planning on heading up to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year make sure you save some of your schedule to catch the multitude of Australian acts making the trip. The Fringe Festival, which runs from 3 - 27 August this year, is the largest arts festival in the world. Last year saw 2,500 shows put on in over 255 venues plus plenty more on the street. Comedy, theatre, music and cabaret are all on the bill for the anything goes festival. It has launched many successful careers for Australian artists and is seen as requisite for emerging artists and one hell of a party for established ones. For 2012 some of the people heading over include Paul Kelly, Denise Scott,
Axis of Awesome and Sam Simmons. As well as these well known names over 30 individual artists and group acts from Oz will hit the streets for what is the best time of year to be in Edinburgh.
Beach Boys hitting Australian shores
The Beach Boys have been in the business for half a century. Working that long usually gets you a pension and gold watch but they are back together with their global tour breaking on Australia’s shores in August. There’s been plenty of highs and lows for the original surfer rock brothers from California with breakups, financial disputes and the well documented drug and alcohol problems of lead man Brian Wilson which prevented him touring and recording for many years. This tour is especially significant as all surviving members of the band will be on stage for the first time in 20 years. Fans of the group will be able to enjoy all the classics as well as the new material from That’s Why God
Made Radio, their 29th studio album, released earlier in 2012. The Beach Boys head to Europe soon after, playing Wembley Arena on 28 September. Just don’t expect them to be jumping all over the stage; most of them have already enjoyed their 70th birthday.
Tasmanian artist the voice of Tourism Australia
Ah, good old Tourism Australia. Charged with promoting Oz abroad they’ve given us some classic’s like Paul Hogan and his “Throw another shrimp on the barbie” and some clangers such as Lara Bingle’s “Where the bloody hell are ya?” So we can be forgiven if we get a bit nervous when we hear they’ve got a new ad promoting the beauty of Australia, crossing our fingers that it doesn’t exploit a stereotype too egregiously. Luckily for us they’ve decided to let some Australian music do the talking this time. Little known Tassie artist Dewayne Everettsmith’s song ‘It’s Like Love’ accompanies three
minutes of footage spanning across the best of Australia’s landscapes. The video is part of the ongoing ‘There’s Nothing Like Australia’ campaign. They seem to have picked a winner this time, although they couldn’t resist the tame kangaroo eating out of the hands, because we all know that’s what every kangaroo is like; right skip? Check out the video on the Australian Times website. Warning: likely to induce extreme homesickness.
Hungry Kids serve London up a little feast n Hungry Kids of Hungary Live @ Camden KOKO, 25 May
OPENING slot on a Friday night at KOKO is a bit of a challenge. There’s not a great deal of people there, just those who are working on getting their drink, so you are usually playing to those core fans who are just here to see you. We were in the latter group. So we scored a poll spot for Brisbane’s Hungry Kids of Hungary. Later, we did meet some people who were actually from Hungary who turned up because of the name. They were surprised to see so many Aussies there. The HKH boys didn’t let the smallish crowd deter them as they bust into ‘Wristwatch’ off their debut album Escapades. As their short set proceeded the crowd on the edges
began to pay attention to the fivepiece on stage with their funky, pop guitar sound and multi vocal songs. The set was short but a lot of fun as they drove through some of their new and enough of their old to keep everyone happy. The last few songs ‘Scattered Diamonds’, ‘Coming Around’ and ‘The Vacationer’ had everyone swaying and crooning along in a perfect start to the night. Hungary Kids of Hungary will be back for another course; the guys are making waves in Europe, especially Belgium. The UK will take bigger bites before long.
travel
Travel | 7
AustralianTimes.co.uk
Images by Andy Whitehead
tting This week we’re pu
Egypt
ON THE MAP
Encountering Egypt – an abandoned paradise n
Egypt hasn’t had the best reputation of late, what with violent uprisings, Tahir Square and terrorist scares. But as PAUL JUDGE found out, this idyllic and incredibly historical nation is on the rise to greatness once more, and for tourists – is the ideal holiday getaway.
CRUSING the Nile, snorkelling the Red Sea, being ripped off at the markets and posing for silly photos in front of the Pyramids are all essential
parts of a travellers time in Egypt. The country is driven by tourism. For a year now though, the crowds have stopped and the lifeblood of their economy dried up. In case you haven’t read a newspaper or watched the news in the past 12 months, Egypt has undergone a political revolution from a military dictatorship to the beginnings of a democratic nation. With the triumph of the people came publicity which
didn’t inspire confidence in tourists to visit. With elections looming there, the media portrayal is of a country which is dangerous and unstable. But after a recent visit at the invitation of Encounters Travel I’m convinced there is no reason to take Egypt off your list. Any trip to Egypt has to include the River Nile. It’s a part of the country’s history. The Pharaohs, the Romans, the Arabs all relied on this massive water line for their livelihood and the Egyptians continue to today. For our whirlwind trip of Egypt - we get to experience the river in modern surroundings by stepping onto a refurbished Dahabyia in Aswan in Southern Egypt for the first few days. The plush houseboats or ‘hotels on water’ have all the luxuries associated with cruise liners but with a lot less people. We only have two days on board but experience a taste of the opulence and uniqueness of this accommodation. We take in a spot of lunch on the top deck before retiring to the sun beds for a snooze. After a late afternoon dip, we take in the sunset and some Egyptian beer, my new friend for the next few days. During one of the blissful days aboard the floating ‘palace’, we set out for the UNESCO World Heritage site of Abu Simbel. A three hour drive from Aswan deep into the desert, we were soon staring up at the looming statues which sit over 30 metres high in the rock face. From luxurious to traditional - we swapped our houseboats for a night on a felucca. The traditional sail boats of the Nubian people glide peacefully along the water in a zigzag motion to catch the wind. Our bed for the night is one huge mattress on deck, shared by 12 of us. The night sky and tranquillity is only broken in the morning by the insane braying of donkeys on the bank. Weary eyed, we suspect some of the crew members are complicit in an early morning prank. We head on to Luxor, home of the aptly named - Luxor Temple - which we explore at night. Normally there would be thousands of visitors here and we would be lining up for hours but I see only scattered small groups around the stunning site. For us, the lack of other tourists and visitors is a bonus and it continues throughout the trip with all the Egyptian sights easily accessible. This was evident the very next day at the enormous site of Karnak Temple. Average daily crowds of 12-15,000 people are replaced by under a hundred
and it highlights just how much the country’s economy is bleeding. Before our trip to the empty Karnak, we experience something undeniably special - a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings, and fantastic views of Luxor and the surrounding temples. The 3:30am wake-up is well worth it, as we float 3000 feet above the ground and Mohammed our pilot asks us if it’s our first hot air balloon ride. We nod and he replies ‘me too’. I’m beginning to discover the Egyptian sense of humour and how they give the Aussie’s a run for their money in the sarcasm stakes. Well, at least I hope he’s joking about it being his first time... After a long morning of sight-seeing we are rewarded with an afternoon siesta and some poolside down time at the Steigenberger Nile Palace where we are staying. This amazing hotel overlooks, yes, you guessed it - the Nile. Visitors to Egypt are keen to explore the popular destinations but rest and relaxation rate just as highly. It’s no more evident than when we fly into Sharm El-Sheikh. East of Cairo and entrance to the Red Sea, this part of the country is full of plush resorts and all-inclusive packages, but we are headed for the smaller and less developed town of Dahab. Here we indulge in quad biking, camel riding and snorkelling around the Blue Hole. A large swimming area full of coral and the colourful fishy creatures it attracts, it is also a popular scuba diving spot. In the distance you can see Saudi Arabia. I wave but can’t be sure if they see how much fun we’re having. At night the restaurants along the bay churn out fresh seafood while the moon reflects off the peaceful water as it quietly hugs the shore. I briefly consider ditching the group and my London life for simpler days in this remote paradise but the hustle and bustle of Cairo calls. After several days of a slower pace in the quieter areas of Egypt, Cairo hits you with its size and fast pace. The clogged roads and sea of people is almost overwhelming but hypnotic to watch in action. Imagine taking all of Australia and placing it in one city. Don’t even bother imagining, because with a population of 22 million - Cairo is Australia, just in one city. As we shuffle along the motorway with the constant tooting of horns and creative driving we listen to Sami our guide explain the city and the most recent chapter of Egypt’s turbulent history as we drive past Tahir Square. This square was the setting for the
people’s revolution of January 2011. He explains to us the dissatisfaction of living under military rule and how government corruption brought the people to the streets in mainly peaceful protests, which eventually led to the collapse of the government. He becomes quite emotional as he points out the areas where he camped out all night and what it meant to the people whose only hope was for a taste of democracy. We then spend the afternoon at the Egyptian Museum which is an onslaught of artefacts and pieces from the ancient Egyptian world. The big draw card is the relics from Tutankhamun, the child Pharaoh. His tomb was the only tomb untouched by vandals and looters when discovered in 1922 and the obscene wealth is on display including the 15kg pure gold face mask. Not bad for a 19 year old. Our last night is spent indulging in more Egyptian hospitality and we try ‘Kushari’ - a dish of rice and pasta combined with chickpeas and lentils. An odd combination and not something you’ll see on the Atkins Diet but it works all the same. Last up on our tour is the granddaddy of them all, the Pyramids. No introduction necessary, these are something you have to see when visiting Egypt. We are lucky enough to have a great view of them from our hotel but up close is how they should be viewed. Cue cliche ‘Walk like an Egyptian’ photos plus a few moments to be overawed at their grandeur. And then the Egyptian adventure is over all bar the flight home. With a week full of memories and a temporary
8 | Travel tan (I passed on the obligatory henna tattoo for a longer reminder) I have been taken by this amazing country, its rich history and fantastic people. Want my advice? Put Egypt back on your travel plans. With the right precautions it’s perfectly safe while the country is making a transition to democracy. This won’t happen overnight (Australia took around about 60 years of colonisation to get around to it), but in the meantime the opportunity to see a country like this is there and you’ll probably be wise to go now while it’s off everyone else’s radar.
12 - 18 June 2012
The author travelled courtesy of Encounter Travels and flew with Egypt Air AustralianTimes.co.uk/travel
What’s in it for you...
it for you... Felucca support boat - Have you ever wanted to experience Egypt and the Nile but not interested in camping or paying the huge fees to upgrade to a cruise ship? We have fixed this problem at last at Encounters Travel. We have built a support boat that follows you on your felucca which has toilets, showers a kitchen and even an upstairs deck so you can get a Nubian massage while watching the sun set over the glorious Nile. Experience the legendary fun of a felucca cruise with the added comfort of full facilities and have it all included with Encounters Travel. Exclusive Deal - Nubian Adventure - Discover the secrets of Egypt with this 9 day tour. Visit the Great Pyramids in Cairo before heading to the Luxor and Aswan in the Nile Valley and enjoying a traditional felucca cruise down the Nile, take advantage of a little bit of luxury with our Felucca Support Boat. Exclusive to Australia Times readers is a 15% discount of all Nubian Adventure departures if you book this week.
Contact us at:
Tel.: +44 0800 088 6002 Email: tours@encounterstravel.com www.encounterstravel.com
Y4447
Travel | 9
AustralianTimes.co.uk
This week’s top Travel Deals 10% off some summer sailing fun
Inspired to get on a boat and check out the best places for a dip in Europe? Well look no further than Topdeck’s special offer on their Summer Sailing Fun 2012 Tour. Basically, they’re offering 10% off 26 day tours departing 10 and 17 August. S you get to visit 14 countries - France, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican City, Greece, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Netherlands & Belgium. Plus you get 3 nights flotilla sailing in Greece. Sightseeing tours of all major cities and the chance to stay in a combination of hotels, cabins on yachts, a castle in Germany, an Austrian Gasthof, hostels & bungalows. Sounds wicked!? Get booking at Topdeck.travel/europe-trips/euroclub-htss/summer-fun-sailing
Promotion
Exploring Egypt and Jordan with Fez Travel
WHAT more alluring country is there than Egypt? Home to the land of the Pharaohs, the River Nile and the Red Sea. Between the contrasts of the excitement of Cairo; the famous Pyramids; the awe-inspiring Valley of the Kings; andTemple of Abu Simbel in the south; or the pleasure of relaxed snorkeling in the clear Red Sea - there are a variety of incredible experiences possible while exploring Egypt. Add a visit into the rugged desert wadis of Jordan, where the famed ancient city of Petra carved into the red cliffs defies description, a place where Bedouins still camp in the desert, and you have the perfect adventure.
Cairo
Cairo is at the same time ancient and modern, full of youthful energy and treasures of the past 5000 years of history. It’s a city which holds the last remaining monument of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world- the Great Pyramids of Giza, and the enigmatic Sphinx. A city that cannot be bypassed. The world famous Egyptian Museum where the splendour of King Tutankhamen’s solid gold funerary mask, and the Royal mummies are the standout treasures amongst thousands of relics. It’s the essential introduction to Egyptian history. Exploration of the mediaeval Mamluk bazaar; the Coptic Christian and Islamic monuments; plus a visit to the GrecoRoman heritage of the Mediterranean city of Alexandria round off the sights of this amazing capital.
Trains, Feluccas and Camels
Travelling the length of this big country by overnight sleeper trains, sailing by day on the ancient Felucca Nile boats, plus optional camel rides, add that sense of real travel adventure of past eras. Arriving by train in the morning into the Nubian valley of Aswan or drifting past
the green banks of The Nile, these experiences are hard to beat.
Luxor and Aswan
Evocative names such as the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple and the Temple of Luxor beckon for real exploration of some of the most awe-inspiring massive monuments of the ancient world. The ultimate ‘overview’ is of course by a sunrise hot-air balloon ride! To travel to the dry far south of Egypt and see the spectacular temple of Abu Simbelwith statues and carvings – all rescued from the damming of the Nile, is humbling to say the least.
The Red Sea
In total contrast is the glorious resort of Dahab, on the shores of the Red Sea where sea, sand, snorkeling or diving are there for essential chill-out time. With options of free time, and side trips,the energetic people at Fez Travel have created a new group of tours using their characteristic style of affordable adventures developed in Turkey. Their structured tours have a great combination of the essential things to see and time to discover at your own pace, all at excellent value. With the launch of the first tours in 2012, Fez Travel are offering very attractive special discounts for early bookings, and up to 10% on longer tours. Call 0207 099 2077 or visit Feztravel.com AustralianTimes.co.uk/travel
Encounter some Turkish delights
Done Greece and Croatia but yearn for the open sea? How about Turkey! Always wanted to be part of your own Aegean adventure? Well Encounters Travel have got what you are looking for! A great way to experience all that Turkey has to offer, they are offering 10% off their 12 day tour which explores cosmopolitan Istanbul and the ancient sites of Troy, Pergamum and Ephesus before ending with a three night cruise on board a traditional Turkish gullet. Not bad at all! For more info, head to Encounterstravel.com/turkey/aegean_legacy_tour.html
10 | Jobs & Money
12 - 18 June 2012
Dollar Review
Spain bailout news gives Aussie strength THE Australian Dollar strengthened further over the weekend, moving back close to parity with its US counterpart, on news of a bailout for Spain’s beleaguered banks. The Aussie rested around the 0.99USD mark on Monday while trading at around 0.64GBP. This comes after the RBA lowered interest rates by 0.25 percent and the release of Australian unemployment figures. A senior market strategist at Westpac New Zealand was cited as saying the key impetus for the Aussie’s strength was based on commentary suggesting that leaders in Europe and the US were nearing solutions for their economic crises. Speculation of further stimulus for the US economy has had a positive effect on risk appetite over the past month. Although analysts have warned that markets will remain volatile with risky assets remaining vulnerable. Koon Chow, a strategist at Barclays Capital, was cited as saying that market expectations have grown for a new wave of quantitative easing in the
major developed market economies. Although this may not address the cause of the current challenges or allay market anxieties related to banking and sovereign solvency. He furthermore added that until these problems are tackled head on, it will be hard for emerging market assets to rally independently. On a domestic note, growth figures have substantially helped the local currency, with GDP rising by 1.3 percent
in the last quarter. This is much higher than the forecasted 0.6 percent growth that markets have been expecting. GBP/AUD: 1.5601 EUR/AUD: 1.2621 AUD/USD: 0.9917 AUD/JPY: 78.91 Exchange Rates at 09:19, 11 June 2012
Composed by Monique Chapman 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.
Ask the Experts
WORLDWIDE TAX SOLUTIONS
Is your tax situation a mess? Allow WWTS to clean up for you! A World Wide Tax Solution Company is the answer to all your tax problems and needs.
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
Advantages of the Tier 1
Entrepreneur Visa
Q:
My father runs a business and wants to relocate to the United Kingdom. He is currently based in Australia. He is interested in the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa. Is it true that one qualifies quicker for settlement in the UK on this type of visa?
A:
Yes, there are indeed many advantages to the UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa. The UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa holder can qualify to apply for permanent residence at the end of the successful completion of a five-year period on the visa. Furthermore, they may even be able to settle sooner should the applicant manage to create 10 jobs (for example 3 job positions during the first year, 3 during the second year and 4 during the third year) or have a turnover of £5 million in 3 years. The UK Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa holder also enjoys more flexibility regarding settlement, as they can spend up to 180 days each year outside the UK without affecting their right to settle in the UK.
Breytenbachs Immigration Contact: Teresa Tel: 07789952025 Email: teresa@worldwidetax.co.uk Website: www.worldwidetax.co.uk
JP Breytenbach
Director of Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants www.bic-immigration.com info@bic-immigration.com
Continued from p12...
Sport | 11
AustralianTimes.co.uk
Gallen confident Blues can level series THE RUBDOWN Keep it rolling, boys
DESPITE staring down the barrel of a seventh successive State of Origin series loss to arguably the greatest side assembled by Queensland, Blues’ skipper Paul Gallen claims the current NSW team is the best he’s been a part of. Defeat for Ricky Stuart’s men would be a savage blow for the Blues, who have left no stone unturned to try to end the dominance of Mal Meninga’s mighty Maroons side. It’s estimated $3 million has been spent by the NSWRL in ensuring Stuart has everything he needs to prepare a side capable of toppling Cameron Smith, Johnathan Thurston, Greg Inglis and co for the first time since 2005. Meninga’s side arrive in Sydney on Tuesday, amid accusations of being arrogant and smug by Stuart, who was responding to claims from Meninga that NSW lack the mentality for Origin. However, Gallen, who made his debut in 2006, said the jibes from the coaches are just part of the build-up, and has no doubt his
side can level the series and erase the memory of last month’s 18-10 defeat in Melbourne. “This is probably the best Origin team I have played for in the 11 times I’ve been involved,” Gallen said. “Every player picked is in the position they play at club level and they’re all in form. “We’re going in with 100 per cent confidence and have ticked all the boxes so far and we’ve got one more session to fine-tune things before Wednesday.” Gallen also backed his Cronulla teammate Todd Carney to put his nervous debut at Etihad Stadium behind him and show he’s a player capable of performing on the biggest stage when he runs out at ANZ Stadium in front of a crowd of more than 81,000. “We’ve all seen what Origin can do to quality first-graders,” said the 30-year-old. “He was nervous. The big stage, the big arena - it happens to everyone. “He knows what it’s all about,
what the week is all about, and we’ll see a different Todd Carney on Wednesday.” And the torrential rain that’s left Sydney soaked has Gallen thinking it could work to the Blues’ advantage. The harbour city was deluged on Monday and, although the forecast is for the rain to ease off, the pitch at ANZ Stadium will be far from conducive to an expansive game, which Gallen believes could work in favour of the hosts. “It probably does a little bit,” he said. “They’ve got such expansive players and can switch the ball from side to side. “But I have been over in England and played with these guys and they have done it there in the wet. “I don’t think it really suits any side too much. But if you are going to lean towards someone, it may suit us more.” - AAP
AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport
Wandsworth wary of flag favourites tag Continued from p12... Andrew Slevison (four goals) and Peter McGettigan (two) first-class delivery. When the ‘Cats did manage a forward thrust, Lachlan O’Toole at centre half-back and Josh Cutten were there, waiting to turn defence into attack. This amounted to a four-goal-totwo term into the breeze and from there it was downhill skiing – the last term equally one-sided, five goals to two, making it a nine goal to four last half. The Magpies have now strung together three wins on the trot and sit second on the table behind undefeated Wandsworth. The Wildcats will be relieved to have several key players return from
abroad for this Saturday’s clash with Wimbledon where they can look to regain some much-needed confidence and get their premiership defence back on track. In other matches, Wandsworth maintained their unbeaten, topof-the-table run by downing the London Swans, 15.16 (106) to 8.7 (55) at Ply Park. With coach Jarryd Browne sailing the seas of Croatia, skipper Mark Brescacin stepped up on his 30th birthday to be captain-coach for the day. The Perth boy did not disappoint – leading his team to victory and kicking four goals. Club stalwart and treasurer Sam Percy said the Demons accept their status as premiership favourites but knows it’s far from comfortable at
the top. “We have to expect we are considered favourites but we have to not let that affect us too much,” he said. He praised Putney’s efforts of late and expected the main opposition to come from the Magpies and Wildcats in August. “We fully expect Putney to be tough opponents but what’s also surprising is that West London have faded in the second half the last two matches… that won’t happen much,” he said. Round 5 matches: London Swans v Putney Magpies, West London v Wimbledon, Wandsworth v North London (Sunday).
By Will Denton MOMENTUM. It exists in most sports (well, maybe not ‘Dressage’... what sort of sadist dreamt that one up?) and it seems none more so than in the glorious world of AFL. What’s most intriguing about when a team has momentum is it’s hard as buggery for the opposing team to do anything about it. Case in point: Essendon on Saturday night. Now, the Dons were facing the Sydney music after somehow managing to get rolled by the Dees. They were also back under a roof so that none of that nasty Melbourne weather would ruin James Hird’s immaculately coiffured hair. They needed to show the footy world that they were a genuine top four side and that the previous week was just a bit of a speed bump. What the Bombers dished up until three-quarter time was just two goals. The Swans were surging ahead by 50 and gunning to the top of the ladder. Obviously Hirdy wasn’t happy so he loosened his tie a bit and delivered a power point presentation so damning, it drained the batteries on his iPad. Facing the prospect of a teambuilding weekend at Hirdy’s ranch if they lost was enough to kick-start the said momentum. Jimmy’s boys proceeded to boot nine goals and almost pinched a world
record comeback. If it wasn’t for a Dempsey decision to play on after the siren, the Bombers wouldn’t be doing trust falls and singing ‘Kum Ba Ya’ as we speak. Another mob that had plenty of the big ‘M’ was Richmond. They were coming off a great win, had recently hit 50,000 members and Jack Riewoldt had his first street named after him. The Tiges were expected to kak it in over a Freo team that were wondering just what this wet stuff falling from the sky was. Clearly they thought this one was done and dusted after kicking the opening two goals and figured, ‘That’ll do! Party time boys!’ Wrong. The Dockers overcame the alien conditions and gave the Yellow and Black army several new blood vessels to burst and a lesson in wet weather footy. It leaves Richmond destined once again of sneaking into ninth and with the prospect of thousands of fresh microwaved membership cards. Buddy put on another clinic over Port, although he might be on the sidelines for a couple of weeks for giving his opponent a wizzy dizzy. In other news, Gold Coast are still rubbish, The Blues are sliding faster than Facebook shares and the Cats are just being greedy now, as they look like being there yet again in September. AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport
Aussies dominate tag International Cup
AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport
Hockeyroo concerns over Games umpiring AUSTRALIAN women’s hockey coach Adam Commens has questioned umpiring standards and interpretations ahead of the London Olympics after problems at a major Games lead-up. The Hockeyroos made the final of the London Cup invitational event in Chiswick but were beaten 4-1 by Olympic champions The Netherlands on Sunday. Commens said he believed umpires at the tournament were struggling with demands from international hockey’s governing body for tighter interpretations on key rules, which are set to carry through to the Games. “The FIH have asked for different interpretations on aerial balls, tackles, the five-metre rule and on masks and that makes it really difficult for umpires,” Commens said. “We are thinking one thing and they (the umpires) are thinking something else. “They are struggling with the speed of the game and the skill levels. “They are doing their best but, unfortunately, it’s not good enough.” The world No.7 Hockeyroos can at least console themselves with a solid tournament and decent first half against the world’s benchmark team. Carlien Dirkse van de Heuvel opened the scoring for the Dutch in
The Netherlands defeated Australia 4-1 in the Investec London Cup final on Sunday. (Gary Baker) the 28th minute in a competitive first half before the world No.1 went up a gear after the break. Maartje Paumen made it 2-0 soon after the break, before Kelly Jonker scored a couple of minutes later to make it 3-0. Australia hit back through Georgia Nanscawen before Paumen scored her second 14 minutes from fulltime to ice the game for the Dutch. The Hockeyroos have two practice matches against Germany at the London Olympic Park this week, before the 16-player Games team is
named next week. The Hockeyroos beat world No.3 Germany in the semi-finals at the London Cup, and will again face the Germans in their Olympic Games group. - AAP
COUNTDOWN TO THE
LONDON OLYMPICS 6 weeks to go
AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport
By Alistair Davis LONDON Australia continued its dominance of Try Tag Rugby’s International Cup, winning both the Mixed A Grade and Men’s divisions at Wasps Twyford Avenue Sports Ground on Saturday. The wins will go down as two of the finest in the history of the London Australia Tag Rugby teams, overcoming the strong Great Britain & Ireland World Cup training squads in both divisions. The London Australia mixed A Grade team, who had earlier lost to Great Britain & Ireland Red in the pool stages, won their final 7-2 thanks to an explosive first half performance by Dane Challenor. Challenor, who was basically untagable in the opening exchanges of the match, claimed the Player of the Final Award. The Player of the Tournament Award went to former South Sydney Rabbitohs Junior Rugby League representative Tim Ross, who was representing Great Britain & Ireland Red due to his British heritage. In the men’s division, London Australia prevailed over a tough
Great Britain & Ireland World Cup training squad in the final, 2-0 after both teams had shared wins in the earlier pool stages. Queenslander Hamish Jones was Player of the Final with England’s James Kennedy winning the Player of the Tournament Award. The London Australia mixed social team finished 4th in their division, where London Ireland White defeated London Ireland Green 2-1 in the final. Meanwhile, many of the top Australian players involved in the International Cup have put their name down to tour Ireland next month for the Pig N Porter Festival. The 120 team event is the biggest Tag Rugby festival in the world and Try Tag Rugby are looking to send one A Grade and two mixed social teams. The A grade team is a great hope of winning the whole tournament, with experienced Oztag players Tom Parsons and Patrick Wright leading the way. If you would like to get involved in Tag Rugby, visit www.trytagrugby. com for more information. AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport
TAG-A-ROOS
Aussies clinch International Cup P11
PUTNEY ARE REAL FLAG CONTENDERS
n Reigning premiers Wildcats fall to rising Magpies while Demons continue march at the top. By Lee Crossley THE Putney Magpies are officially a serious AFL London 2012 premiership contender after their comfortable 27-point win over West London at Putney Heath on Saturday. Heading into Round 4, last year’s grand finalists Wandsworth and West London had again set the tone. And while Putney’s 98-point win over an under-strength Wimbledon was impressive, Saturday’s win over the reigning premiers is the one that will have opposition sides now treating the Magpies with caution. The Jubilee long weekend presented an ideal travel window for many expats but conspired against clubs needing to field three teams. West London went in undermanned, missing as many as six regular starters. But to focus on the underdone Wildcats would take the gloss of a tenacious and at times ruthless Magpies side that completely dominated the second half to win 16.13 (109) to 12.10 (82). West London won the toss and took full advantage of a powerful breeze to lead by 25 points at the first change. Second term, Putney’s turn and at halftime it was anyone’s game – Cats by eight. The third quarter was meant to read: West London, with the wind for the last time, set up a matchwinning lead they can defend in the last stanza. But the ‘Pies had other ideas. Midfielders Adam Robertson, Clayton Fitzgerald, Greg Chapman and Dan Golwacki took full advantage of Jacob Bailey’s rucking dominance to give forwards ...continued on p11
ORIGIN 2
Can the Blues level it against the mighty Maroons? | P11 COME FROM BEHIND: Blues skipper thinks his men can catch Smith and his galloping maroons. (AAP Image/Julian Smith)
Beale awaits ARU disciplinary inquiry KURTLEY Beale appears to have overcome the first hurdle but an internal disciplinary inquiry could still stand between him and selection for Australia’s second Test against Wales. Beale trained with the Wallabies reserves and a group of local schoolboys in Melbourne on Monday as he bids for a return to the Test side following minor shoulder surgery. The fullback-turned-five-eighth didn’t appear to be troubled by the shoulder in the non-contact session, while the majority of the starting side which beat Wales in Brisbane last Saturday trained in the Visy Park gym. But his return to the side to be named on Tuesday for Saturday’s second Test in Melbourne could come down to an Australian Rugby Union inquiry into his alleged involvement in an incident at a Brisbane pub last week. While awaiting a police investigation into the incident in which Beale allegedly assaulted a bouncer while out with injured teammate Quade Cooper, the ARU is conducting its own inquiry. If cleared on fitness and disciplinary fronts, Beale would come back into the team on the bench, at best, after Berrick Barnes’ authoritative display at five-eighth in Australia’s 27-19 first Test win. Coach Robbie Deans has indicated he’ll stick to the first Test starting side, with Barnes at five-eighth and Adam Ashley-Cooper at fullback, keeping Beale on the bench. A hand injury to prop Sekope Kepu could force the only change to the starting team for the Etihad Stadium Test and earn Brumbies tight-head Dan Palmer a recall after his debut against the Scots. - AAP
AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport