3000 Melbourne Magazine ISSUE 97 Feb 15

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

WHITE NIGHT CITY WILL BE ALL WHITE ON THE NIGHT

GOING GREEN MEET THE NEW MELBOURNE MP

FORCE MAJEURE EDDIE IZZARD’S GREATEST TOUR YET

WHAT’S ON YOUR GUIDE TO THE HOTTEST TICKETS IN TOWN FEBRUARY 2015

ISSUE

PREMIERE OF SEXERCISE THE MUSICAL

97

Susan Riley {susanr@magmedia.com.au} William Rowe {williamr@magmedia.com.au}

editor

magazine enquiries {enquiries@magmedia.com.au} Susan de Kretser - Smith & Rowe {susandk@smithandrowe.com.au}

advertising

cover image World premiere of Sexercise the musical

contributing writers Dana Atkin, Tom Elliott, Jonathan Green, Janine Phillips, Suzana Talevski.

This magazine has a distribution of 14,000 copies throughout Melbourne CBD, Docklands, parts of Southbank and rotating through South Melbourne and surrounding areas with a readership of approximately 40,000. If you would like to stock 3000Melbourne at your place of business please email Chelsea at editor@magmedia.com.au published by

Magmedia Pty Ltd ABN 69 118 720 960, Registered Office: 25 Northumberland St, Collingwood VIC 3066 Ph: (03) 8506 9908 Fax: (03) 9525 3944 3000melbourne welcomes any contributions from our readers. Please send any material to Chelsea at editor@magmedia.com.au.

3000melbourne is a free publication and is distributed through selected outlets. Views expressed in 3000melbourne do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editor or publisher. No responsibility is accepted by 3000melbourne for the accuracy of the advertisements or information within the publication. All material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled “Not for publication”. After two calendar months uncollected prizes will be claimed by 3000melbourne and may be re-drawn. No part of this publication may be recorded, stored in a retrieval system or reproduced in any form without permission of The Publisher. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this publication. The opinions in this publication do not necessarily represent the views of The Publisher.

This edition also includes our picks for the city’s best rooftop bars to enjoy a twilight tipple, plus some suggestions if you’ve left your Valentine’s Day plans to the last minute.

This month we’re introducing some new columnists who I hope you love, to add to the wealth of news, views and reviews from our long-standing contributors.

design

Paul Andrew - Lorcy Media for MagMedia {lorcymedia@bigpond.com}

fortune of chatting to impossibly talented comedian Eddie Izzard who is in town for his Force Majeure world tour.

The team at 3000 Melbourne is bringing you more of what you’ve told us you want in your magazine – more competitions, more news of where to eat and where to drink, the very latest entertainment news and interviews with all the big names to visit our great city.

Chelsea Arnold {editor@magmedia.com.au}

EDITOR'S LETTER Welcome to the first edition of 3000 Melbourne magazine for 2015.

As is want at the start of a new year, we’ve had a good look at ourselves, made some resolutions and vowed to be bigger and better with a fresh outlook for the year ahead.

We’re also bringing you the latest theatre news with the world premiere of Sexercise – The Musical and the ever-popular Strictly Ballroom, plus all you need to know to get the most out of White Night later this month.

We also introduce you to new Melbourne MP Ellen Sandell of the Greens who won a closely contested battle for the seat over Labor’s Jennifer Kanis, plus we had the

Now, a little less reading and get out amongst all the fabulous events and activities capitalising on the wonderful weather we’re enjoying at the moment.

Enjoy the rest of summer.

Chelsea Arnold editor@magmedia.com.au

IN THIS ISSUE 4

10

February events

Eddie Izzard’s Force Majuere

6

12

Melbourne goes green

Valentine’s Day ideas

8

17

White Night Melbourne

Miss Meaningful

9

18

Sexercise - The musical

Office rant

CONTENTS

publishers

8

9

6

12

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF OUR DEC/JAN COMPETITIONS: Marnie Bossong • Erin Davie • Sara Wright • Rebecca Cross

www.magmedia.com.au

www.facebook.com/3000melbourne

Twitter.com/3000MelbMag

FEBRUARY 2015

3

EVENTS

ST KILDA FESTIVAL

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5 Febru

PAUSE FEST

Where: Federation Square, corner Swanston and Flinders streets.

When: 9-15 February Cost: Full festival pass from $235, day pass from $145, student pass from $99, masterclass from $25, VIP premium $555; free events in TechBar at Beer DeLuxe.

Bookings: www.pausefest.com.au

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When: Saturday 7 February Time: 6.45pm Where: The Palms at Crown Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au Adult: $84.90

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RENEE GEYER LIVE Singer, songwriter and author Renee Geyer has entertained Australians for four decades.

The bonafide music legend will entertain Melburnians this Valentine’s Day when she brings her show to Wonderland Spiegeltent.

Geyer started out as a jazz, blues and soul singer in her late teens before recording a string of pop, soul and reggae hits in the 70s and 80s. She even spent her LA years in the studio with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Sting, Joe Cocker and Chaka Kahn. Be transfixed with the power of her song.

When: Wonderland Spiegeltent, 120 Pearl River Road, Harbour Town, Docklands.

When: Saturday 14 February Tickets: from $30.

Bookings: wonderlandspiegeltent.com.au

The St Kilda Festival is a Melbourne summer tradition. This year’s event will bring the community together with an entertaining arts and music program featuring activities and workshops for family and friends to enjoy. St Kilda venues and laneways will open their doors to showcase emerging local talent with performances by musicians for the Live N Local program. The nine-day celebration of music, arts and culture closes with Australia’s largest free music festival, Festival Sunday, where families and friends gather on the beaches of St Kilda to soak up the sand, sun and an exciting line-up of acclaimed artists over five music stages.

When: Saturday 31 January to Sunday 8 February.

Where: Various locations in St Kilda.

Details: www.stkildafestival.com.au

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8 Febru

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Pause Fest is Australia’s premier digital event supporting and showcasing the best in creative and tech from Australia and the world. From humble beginnings in 2011, Pause Fest has rapidly grown to become one of the most anticipated events on the bustling Australian festival calendar. The event represents a unique opportunity for locals to connect, collaborate and launch projects alongside global leaders and visionary brands.

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Back by popular demand, three Australian music idols will perform together on stage in one of the year’s most exciting shows.

Johnny Young, Normie Rowe and Colleen Hewett will take you on their incredible musical journey with a show full of their chartbusting hits and memories. Sing along to hits like ‘Que Sera Sera’, ‘Ooh La La!’, ‘It’s Not Easy’, ‘It Ain’t Necessarily So’, ‘Day By Day’, ‘Superstar’, ‘Dreaming My Dreams’, ‘Wind Beneath My Wings’, ‘Step Back’, ‘Cara Lyn’, ‘All My Loving’ and many more.

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THREE AUSSIE ICONS

1000 CITIES

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M ar 15

SUMMERSALT FESTIVAL Melburnians will be doing somersaults over an outdoors arts festival where visitors can enjoy art in the great outdoors, when Melbourne’s arts precinct goes on show during the SummerSalt Festival. Visitors will weave their way through Southbank, taking in music, art installations, dance, circus and puppetry classes, as well as theatre, aerial dance and circus performances.

When: Every weekend Venue: Various Details: www.summersaltfestival.com.au

When: 5-10pm every Wednesday until 25 March Entry: Free Where: Queen Victoria Market, 65-159 Victoria Street.

Details: www.qvm.com.au/night-market

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The Queen Victoria Market’s Night Market boasts one of Melbourne’s most impressive food line-ups, with more than 60 foodies serving street food from across the globe.

You will also find limited edition pieces ranging from jewellery, fashion and accessories to homewares, ceramics and prints. You’ll find a little bit of everything at this Melbourne mid-week market.

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Photographer Daniel Mahon

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NIGHT MARKET

MELBOURNE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

A pop-up artisan bakery rising daily in the heart of the city, a long lunch for 1,500 weaving through a leafy urban oasis, a rollicking ‘low and slow’ barbecue opening party, and a global discussion on the future of food are just some of the ways Melbourne’s vibrant culinary spirit will be celebrated at the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. The event will take a journey to new frontiers of flavour in some of Victoria’s most spectacular settings: from famous dining spots to unexpected venues, rooftop bars to hidden cellars, plus extraordinary locations across regional Victoria; it’s a ticket to what food and wine in Melbourne is all about.

The City of Melbourne and Pop Up Playground invite you to take part in an exciting interactive game that will change the way you see the city. Using a smartphone, a blue Melbourne Bike Share bike and a helmet, the interactive game turns the CBD into a mythical adventure where riders will fight monsters, collect treasure and explore the hidden parts of the city. Once participants visit the 1000 Cities site on a smartphone, they will be prompted to take out a bike at the Federation Square blue Melbourne Bike Share station.

From there, the game will take riders through a series of tasks that will unlock hidden secrets about the city. Discover tucked away coffee shops, artworks, buildings, secret laneways and obscure city gems.

When: : 2 - 28 February Where: Start from the Federation Square Melbourne Bike Share pod outside the Melbourne Visitor’s Centre Cost: Free.

Details: melbourne.vic.gov.au/1000Cities

When: 27 February – 15 March Where: Various venues Details: www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au

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27 Fe

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LITTLE GUYS that do BIG THINGS Design and development of quality eCommerce and brochure websites, without the ego. Look out for our new website, coming soon...

FEBRUARY 2015

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NEIGHBOURHOOD

MELBOURNE GOES GREEN NEWLY-ELECTED MELBOURNE MP ELLEN SANDELL HAS WASTED NO TIME IN HOLDING VICTORIAN PREMIER DANIEL ANDREWS TO ACCOUNT ON HIS ELECTION PROMISES.

BY CHELSEA ARNOLD

In her first weeks in the job, Ms Sandell, the first Greens MP to be elected to the lower house of Victorian Parliament, wrote to Mr Andrews seeking a commitment that he will honour all promises made to the people of Melbourne during the election campaign.

“The new Labor Government made a lot of promises to those living in the seat of Melbourne, and I’m committed to making sure they deliver on them, as well as fighting for a more liveable Melbourne and a fair society,” Ms Sandell said.

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“Whether it’s ensuring the East West toll road doesn’t go ahead, fighting for better public transport and pedestrian infrastructure to keep our community safe, or money to upgrade our schools, I’ll be fighting in Parliament to make sure Labor does what they’d said they will do. I’ve written

a letter to Daniel Andrews reminding him of these promises and I look forward to receiving a reply.”

Ms Sandell said her main priorities for the next four years will be taking action on global warming, protecting the most vulnerable in society, especially through affordable housing, and keeping Melbourne liveable through investment in public transport and protecting parkland and suburbs from uncontrolled development, as well as keeping the

2014 STATE ELECTION RESULTS FOR THE SEAT OF MELBOURNE

GREENS

ELLEN SANDELL

15,333

LABOR

JENNIFER KANIS

10,830

LIBERAL

ED HUNTINGFORD

8913

ANIMAL JUSTICE PARTY

KATE ELLIOTT

802

AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIANS

NEVILLE CHISHOLM

491

VOICE FOR THE WEST

TEHIYA UMER

325

FAMILY FIRST

KERRY SUTHERLAND

306

State Government accountable through strong anti-corruption measures.

“It is a privilege to represent the people of Melbourne, and I’m determined to do everything I can to represent the interests of my constituents.”

“I’m focusing on the issues that are important to Melburnians. I’ve met with community groups and have been speaking to constituents, and I know there’s lots that needs to be done.”

The Greens’ win in the seat of Melbourne was a milestone in the party’s history.

Speaking on election night, Ms Sandell acknowledged that a lot of voters had gone green for the first time.

“I know a lot of people have voted for the Greens for the first time, or at least the first time on a state level. So thank you to all the people of Melbourne. I have been very humbled by the support I have received out in the community.

“Thank you to the voters in Melbourne who have talked to me about your issues.

WHO IS ELLEN SANDELL? “I trained as a scientist, worked for the CSIRO, was the CEO of a climate change not-for-profit organisation and worked in the Department of Premier and Cabinet before entering the world of politics ... I’m also passionate about the local area and love all things Melbourne - the arts, laksa, AFL and cafes.”

And also to everyone who voted for the other candidates. For those people I am here to represent you as well. We all want a Melbourne that is liveable and fair and my door will always be open.”

Ms Sandell won the seat over sitting member, Labor’s Jennifer Kanis, who won the seat in a by-election in 2012.

ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S TOP THINKERS ON PUBLIC POLICY HAS BEEN NAMED CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE CITY OF MELBOURNE. Ben Rimmer, who will take on the role on 9 February, has extensive professional experience in the public and private sectors, most recently as Associate Secretary at the Australian Government’s Department of Human Services.

He has also been a Deputy Secretary in the Department of Prim Minister and Cabinet and a Deputy Secretary, Director and Assistant Director in the Victorian Department of Premier and Cabinet.

He previously worked for the Boston Consulting Group, in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said the role of CEO attracted “an extremely strong field of candidates”.

“Among those Ben Rimmer was the standout choice,” Cr Doyle said.

“Ben brings extensive government and private sector experience to the role and is widely acknowledged as one of the finest thinkers in public policy in Australia. More recently, he has been hands on in the practical business of delivering better government services, especially using new digital technologies.

“I am confident that Ben will be a CEO of vision, intellect and hard work. He is an inspirational leader and we are delighted to welcome him home to Melbourne.”

He replaces outgoing CEO Dr Kathy Alexander who departed after six years in the role.

ACMI ANNOUNCES NEW CEO Broadcasting executive and former film festival director Katrina Sedgwick has been appointed director and chief executive officer of ACMI. Ms Sedgwick, who takes on the role this month, was most recently head of arts at ABC Television in Sydney and founder and former festival director and CEOof the Adelaide Film Festival.

She succeeds Tony Sweeney whose time at the helm over the past 10 years established ACMI’s international profile and drove visitor numbers to a record 1.3 million in 2013-14.

NEIGHBOURHOOD

BEN TAKES ON CITY’S TOP JOB

CELEBRATE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR A vibrant and colourful festival will be underneath a canopy of glittering lights held at Crown Melbourne from 13 to 15 and lanterns, more than 60 stallholders February in celebration of the Year of will fill the Riverwalk for the Hawker’s the Goat and to welcome a new Lunar Bazaar, offering a sensory overload Year of good fortune and prosperity. of traditional arts and crafts, cooking The Year of the Goat will be celebrated demonstrations, Asian delicacies, music with elaborate decorations, cooking and interactive performances. From demonstrations, food stalls bursting with 9.30pm on Saturday, 14 February, a delicious Asian street food, a fireworks fireworks display will light up the sky display and a host of exhibitions, cultural along the river and ward off evil spirits activities and live entertainment. The for the year ahead. festival includes the Riverwalk Hawker’s Visit www.crownmelbourne.com.au Bazaar, good luck giveaways, cultural dance performances, a Video Star Karaoke challenge and spectacular dragon and lion processions. Each day from 11am to 11pm, Melbourne’s 88 will embrace Eureka Skydeck nal visitors by tio na er int re and rich Chinese cultu 15 February m fro ar of the Goat celebrating the Ye theming, ar Ye w Ne se ine Ch until 1 March with play. dis 88 ky luc ls and a information pane floor th 88 the 88’s location, on Eureka Skydeck itors vis se ine Ch to appeals of Eureka Tower, mbol of is considered a sy as the number 8 lture. cu se ine Ch ity in luck and prosper n onto a bo le to tie a red rib Visitors will be ab 88, to er mb nu the o ed int wire display, shap shes. wi ll we d of good luck an leave messages vering the paper lanterns co With a sea of red a two metre d an e floor entranc ceiling on the first ydeck 88 will Sk a rek Eu , ion tallat tall wire 88 art ins New Year. oughout Chinese be glowing red thr de ky ck.com.au tion visit: eurekas For more informa

YDECK 88 CELEBRATE AT SK

FEBRUARY 2015

7

CULTURE

IT’LL BE ALL WHITE ON THE NIGHT

WHITE NIGHT MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA’S MOST CELEBRATED CULTURAL EVENT, RETURNS FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY THIS MONTH.

By Chelsea Arnold White Night, inspired by Paris’ Nuit Blanche, features local, national and international artists and works from Australia and around the world.

For 12 hours from 7pm Saturday 21 February until 7am Sunday 22 February, Melbourne’s city streets, major cultural institutions, public spaces, gardens, landmark buildings and laneways will be transformed into a world of light.

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This year’s event is bigger than ever, with an expanded footprint covering nine city precincts from Southbank Boulevard in the south to Victoria Street in the north.

There will be increased activity on the Yarra River and Alexandra Gardens and a new precinct has been created around Melbourne Museum.

A highlight of the program is the world premiere of the Australian-Indian commission, Sita’s Garden. The piece will see

the Yarra transformed with giant lotus leaves and pontoons for Bollywood performances.

of discovery will feature performances from Melbourne-based and international artists.

White Night Melbourne will expand on the popularity of the music program with the inclusion of three all-night music stages spread across the city. The stages will cater to a wide variety of musical tastes with everything from Indie to Jazz and the introduction of a World Music Stage. Set against the glorious backdrop of the Royal Exhibition Building, this kaleidoscopic voyage

Artistic director Andrew Walsh said this year’s program would build on the success of last year’s event. “We have been working with our partners right across the city to ensure the 2015 event and program delivers a magical opportunity for residents and visitors to discover a range of programs from the Yarra to the northern Melbourne Museum precinct,” Mr Walsh said.

“We had a terrific response to our call for submissions process which has resulted in hundreds of Victorian artists and works included in the program in 2015, including artist Freya Pitt who returns for the third year with The Pursuit of Wholeness. These artists will be showcased alongside international artists from France, Portugal, the UK, Morocco, Greece and around Australia with free exhibitions, films, musical acts and installations.”

The all-night, free cultural event offers a mix of free and ticketed entertainment including visual art, spectacular illuminations, music, theatre, special dining experiences, film, design and performances.

Melbourne’s cultural institutions – including Arts Centre Melbourne, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, the National Gallery of Victoria, the State Library of Victoria and Melbourne Museum will open their doors offering special events.

Public transport will run all night.

WHITE NIGHT WHEN: 7pm Saturday, 21 February to 7am Sunday, 22 February WHERE: Various locations DETAILS: whitenightmelbourne.com.au

A FUN AND FLIRTY NEW AUSTRALIAN MUSICAL COMEDY PREMIERES IN MELBOURNE THIS MONTH.

school runs, work schedules and their personal exercise regimes, they are stretched to breaking point. They are failing to deliver to each other what they used to give so freely - time, affection, spontaneity and, of course, sex.

The amusing new comedy about a married couple struggling to connect looks at love, lust, marriage, dating, getting dumped, mates, golf trips, guys not sharing their feelings, girls living with cats and everyone trying to work it all out.

Well-meaning friends Tania (Lulu McClatchy), Shane (Kristin Holland) and Andy (Cameron MacDonald) try to help Joe and Sam work through their problems. But, their friends have problems of their own.

Joe (Lyall Brooks) and Sam (Nicole Melloy), like so many married, professional couples in their mid-30s, have no time for seduction. Amid the juggling of

When Shane was 16 he picked up 23 years olds. At 36 he’s still doing it ... just.

Tania believes in ‘the one’.

Trouble is, she met her and then, got dumped. At least she still has her cats.

Poor Andy married ‘the one’ - just the wrong one.

And there’s Rhonda running the gamut of online dating sites, trying everything on the menu and struggling to decide what to order on a regular basis.

CULTURE

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

Sexercise – The Musical, written and produced in Melbourne, is the first performance to be staged in the new Alex Theatre, one of three theatres to be built in the former George Cinema complex in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

At couples’ therapy Joe and Sam take a new approach to repairing their relationship when their counsellor, Rhonda (Fem Belling), offers them a selfhelp book about sexercise.

Why work out as individuals when they can burn kilojoules together to stay fit and find happiness?

Maybe Sexercise is the answer.

WHERE: Alex Theatre (former George Cinema), 135 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

WHEN: From 24 February COST: Tickets from $49.90 TICKETS: Ticketek 32 849 or www.ticketek.com.au DETAILS: www.sexercisethemusical.com

Love, lust, marriage, dating, getting dumped, mates, golf trips, guys not sharing their feelings, girls living with cats and everyone trying to work it all out!

Hilarious NEW Musical Comedy PREVIEWS FROM 19 FEB • TICKETS FROM $49.90*

ALEX THEATRE, ST KILDA

BOOK AT

or visit sexercisethemusical.com * Payment processing and additional fees may apply.

FEBRUARY 2015

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CULTURE

W

hen Eddie Izzard lands in Australia it will be the 26th country on the Force Majeure itinerary.

A subsequent tour across the waters in New Zealand will naturally be the 27th country – an impressive number by anyone’s calculations – but far from the end says the tireless performer.

it also demonstrates exceptional determination and courage.

“I think the willingness to just keep tackling new things actually goes back to my transvestism,” he says.

“There is far greater acceptance of transgender now, but when I came out 30 years’ ago it was considered very wrong. I couldn’t even go to the doctor for a cough without him asking if I was really there because of the transvestism.

“I believe the record for a stand-up comedy show is somewhere around 50 countries – which means that I still have “Crossing that divide was so massive quite a bit to do,” he says dryly. Then, in his that I think everything else since has trademark rambling style, he adds, “But appeared quite conquerable.”

I’m not that far off getting my Spanish to a good level, and once I am comfortable with that I have a three-week tour of Spain planned, along with parts of South America, the Caribbean and Cuba – so that will boost it up.”

WITH A PERFECT BLEND OF IRREVERENT

career in stand-up comedy. As many comics will say, it is the type of skill you can only acquire ‘on the job’, with Izzard equating it to learning how to drive a car with little more than an instructor giving you a few pointers before you get in.

Pleasingly, throughout everything he has done, the love for stand-up has remained. Even with a growing presence in acting, and the lure of more interesting roles coming his way, Izzard has no plans to choose one over the other,

and says that all of his different pursuits have helped his overall performance.

“I believe the show is in a good place.

You obviously hope to get better as your career goes on but my confidence levels have increased wonderfully through performing in other languages. I figure that if I can do the show in French and German then going back to English makes me feel like I have superpowers.”

Consider yourself lucky Melbourne.

TAPPING INTO A

‘GREATER FORCE’

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It must be noted SILLINESS, CLEVER OBSERVATIONS that this is not AND SHARP WIT, AN EDDIE IZZARD SHOW said to impress, CAN GO IN ANY DIRECTION. IT IS WITH it is a simple GREAT SIMILARITY THAT HE APPROACHES HIS factual statement.

Izzard has already OWN LIFE, WRITES JONATHAN GREEN. performed Force Majeure in French and German, and once the Spanish is flowing His delivery and phrasing is so freely he has plans to tackle Russian and thoughtful that you are quickly left in Arabic to continue the world assault. no doubt that he is a man of incredible It is an extraordinary effort, and a prime self-awareness, always up for the example of this fascinating man’s approach challenge of trying something new. to life. He has been voted as one of the top “I think it starts with creativity; if you can stand-up comedians of his generation by work out where the centre of your creativity the public and his peers, and has also won is then you can tap into that and start critical acclaim for acting roles in theatre, pushing in a different direction,” he adds. television and film. He has numerous best-selling DVDs, pens articles for “You have to accept that it’s probably newspapers, famously ran 43 marathons going to be a rough start as there will in 51 days for charity and is credited for his be times when you’re not very good. The contribution to demystifying transvestism. first 10 or so days of my charity running There are also plans to run for the position were not very good, but I quickly learned of Lord Mayor of London in 2020. what I needed to do and developed a plan This ability to cross different disciplines clearly takes talent, but

and schedule to make it work better. It’s the same approach he has taken to his

EDDIE IZZARD – FORCE MAJEURE WHEN: 8pm 9, 10 and 12 February WHERE: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne TICKETS: $94.65 BOOKING: www.ticketmaster.com.au

CULTURE

and co-writer Luhrmann, set and costume designer Catherine Martin, choreographer John O’Connell and co-writer Craig Pearce.

BY CHELSEA ARNOLD It’s all sequins and songs as much-loved Australian film Strictly Ballroom makes it stage debut at Her Majesty’s Theatre this month.

Strictly Ballroom The Musical, directed by Baz Luhrmann, tells the inspiring story of a championship ballroom dancer who defies all the rules to follow his heart.

The story originated as a stage play Luhrmann devised with a group of students at the National Institute of Dramatic Art in 1984.

The stage adaptation is produced by the original creative team behind the classic 1992 film, including director

Luhrmann said Strictly Ballroom has been near-on a 30-year journey “from a small student play to my first motion picture and now a fullblown theatrical stage musical”.

“I have often marvelled at how this story, born so long ago, has been in my life for so many years and has managed to touch, move, entertain and uplift so many different people from so many different backgrounds.

“I think the simple truth is that, despite all the sequins, outrageous hairdos and classic Hollywood musical plotting, the simple message that there isn’t only one way to cha cha cha, and that within us all we have the true potential to dance through life with our own steps is something that appeals to all of us.

The message that life doesn’t have to be strictly ballroom is something I hope to have our audiences carry with them as they dance down the aisles.”

Playing the pivotal roles of Scott Hastings and ‘Fran’ are Thomas Lacey and Phoebe Panaretos who lead an outstanding Australian cast of 43 including Bob Baines as Les Kendall, Drew Forsythe as Doug Hastings, Natalie Gamsu as Abuela, Robert Grubb as Barry Fife, Fernando Mira as Rico, Heather Mitchell as Shirley Hastings and Mark Owen-Taylor as JJ Silvers.

WHERE: Her Majesty’s Theatre.

WHEN: Tuesday at 7pm, Wednesday at 1pm and 8pm, Thursday at 8pm, Friday at 8pm, Saturday at 2pm and 8pm, and Sunday at 3pm.

TICKETS: From $55-$150.

BOOKINGS: Ticketek.com.au or 132 849.

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VALENTINE'S DAY!

SKATE DATE NIGHT MEDIBANK ICEHOUSE IS SPREADING THE LOVE WITH SKATE DATE NIGHT THIS VALENTINE’S DAY. Whether you are married, have a long term partner, are on a Tinder date or simply looking for love Medibank Icehouse is the perfect place to spend 14 February. From 7pm, Medibank Icehouse is offering free ice skating lessons for all guests.

This will be followed by a free 30-minute ice dancing lesson for enthusiastic couples. Interested singles will also be paired up and have the chance to ‘break the ice’ with someone new.

Special Guest DJ Tommy Ohhhhhh will be playing your love songs and dedications from 7pm till 10pm, plus, there will also be a Kiss Cam on the big screen with the music continuing to midnight.

Romantics who dedicate their love over the microphone can win $20 and $100 Simone Pérèle Lingerie vouchers, plus there will also be Valentine’s Day balloons on arrival.

Whether it’s a first date or a romantic evening to put that spark back in the relationship, Skate Date Night provides the perfect romantic setting.

WHEN: Saturday, 14 February

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WHERE: Medibank Icehouse, 105 Pearl River Road, Docklands COST: Adult $26, Concession $24, Child 6-14 years $22, includes skate hire.

DETAILS: www.icehouse.com.au

CUPID, KISSES & CRUSTACEANS IMPRESS YOUR VALENTINE THIS YEAR WITH A ROMANTIC NIGHT OF UNDERWATER ENCHANTMENT AT SEA LIFE MELBOURNE AQUARIUM. Choose from a stunning array of intimate and memorable locations including Antarctica, home to the majestic King and cheeky Gentoo penguins, the Fish Bowl surrounded by sharks, and the cosy Coral Atoll, featuring some of the most magnificent tropical animals in the world.

A VALENTINE’S DAY HIGH EUREKA 89’S BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF THE CITY SKYLINE WILL BE ENJOYED BY COCKTAIL PARTY REVELLERS AND DEGUSTATION DINERS ON VALENTINE’S DAY.

TIME: 7-11pm

For the first time, Eureka 89 will host an all-inclusive 14 February cocktail party in the Southern Point Room for those after a sophisticated lounge atmosphere. Canapés and grazing dishes will be served along with selected beverages. In the Northern Point Room a degustation dinner will be on offer for couples looking for an intimate fine dining experience. Upon arrival guests will be served a Eureka 89 signature cocktail, then canapés followed by four courses served with matching wines.

WHEN: Saturday 14 February

WHEN: Saturday, 14 February

COST: Premium Tickets - $199 (table in Fish Bowl), Standard Tickets $149 (table in Antarctica, Seahorse Pier, Upper Deck or Coral Atoll)

WHERE: Eureka 89, Eureka Tower, Southbank

BOOKINGS: functions@ melbourneaquarium.com.au

BOOKINGS: 9693 8889 or www.eureka89.com.au

Soft lighting and music adds to the romance of your intimate four-course dinner, which features an exclusive Valentine’s Day menu, including unlimited beer, wine, sparking wine, soft drink, juice and mineral water.

Don’t miss your chance to experience Valentine’s Day with your special someone with a dinner event they will never forget.

COST: Cocktail party $120 per person, degustation dinner $240 per person.

A MUSICAL VALENTINE THE MELBOURNE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S BELOVED SUMMER SERIES RETURNS TO SIDNEY MYER MUSIC BOWL WITH A FREE CONCERT FILLED WITH STAR-CROSSED LOVE. A Musical Valentine opens with Tchaikovsky’s Fantasy Overture Romeo and Juliet. Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloe conjures an ancient tale of desire tantalisingly out of reach, while the spirit of romantic love pervades Strauss’ songs. This homage to amour closes with Porgy and Bess, Gershwin’s musical love story fusing New York jazz with musical traditions from America’s Deep south.

TIME: 7pm WHEN: Saturday, 14 February WHERE: Sidney Myer Music Bowl COST: Free DETAILS: www.mso.com.au

FAST FIVE

THE BEST

ROOFTOP

BARS

ROOFTOP TERRACES ARE ENJOYING A MOMENT. AND AS THE NIGHTS ARE LONG AND THE WEATHER IS FINE THE TIME IS RIGHT TO ENJOY THE CITY’S FINEST OPEN-AIR BARS. HERE’S 3000 MELBOURNE’S FAVOURITE FIVE.

ROOFTOP BAR

LEVEL 7, 252 SWANSTON STREET

CAMPARI HOUSE 23-25 HARDWARE LANE

With an intimate rooftop space filled with umbrellas and barrel seating, Campari House is a delight. It’s stylish, has great cocktails and a cracking pizza menu.

Quite possibly Melbourne’s favourite skyline bar, Rooftop Bar has the distinction of offering patrons drinks, dancing, views, burgers, deckchairs and cinema. Be sure to book a ticket for the Rooftop Cinema and enjoy exclusive access after sundown.

But be warned you have to climb seven flights of stairs to get there.

SIGLO

LEVEL 2, 161 SPRING STREET This open-air rooftop terrace, upstairs from The Melbourne Supper Club, might not be your cheapest drinking option, but you get attentive table service, a substantial wine and cocktail list and sophisticated atmosphere.

Siglo is geared towards a late supper, offering a range of options from foie gras to party pies, as well as classic desserts.

MADAME BRUSSELS

LEVEL 3, 59-63 BOURKE STREET Named after a 19th Century city brothel owner, Madame Brussels, the self-professed ‘rather fancy terrace and public house’ offers a delightful garden party atmosphere for guests with enviable views over the east side of the city.

LOOP ROOF

LEVEL 3, 19-23 MEYERS PLACE Loop Roof is a rooftop cocktail bar and cafe/restaurant in an open air, garden setting.

On a summery night, try the Loop punch, with Havana Club, Cognac, peach liquer and bitters, gomme syrup and lemon.

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PROPERTY/BUSINESS/FINANCE

CITY’S CONSTRUCTION BOOM The inner-city construction boom hit record levels as the number of new dwellings completed in the City of Melbourne in 2014 reached 6300, double the number completed the previous year and three times the long-term average.

“This boom in development and construction boosts employment and the economy. An additional 76,000 jobs have been generated in the City of Melbourne in the past six years and our Gross Local Product has increased by $20 billion,” he said.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said the Development Activity Monitor reveals a further 13,500 dwellings in 59 residential developments are under construction and due to be completed in the next three years.

“As the fastest-growing municipality in Australia, we welcomed an additional 11,000 Melburnians in 2013 so it’s no surprise that residential development continues to flourish.”

In 2014, 6319 apartments were completed.

MIRVAC’S CROWNING GLORY Mirvac is redefining Melbourne’s skyline by mounting a crown atop its most prestigious waterfront tower, Array at Yarra’s Edge, signifying completion of the building structure.

The rooftop sculpture on Level 40 is symbolic of a crown, complementing Mirvac’s neighbouring T5 apartment tower, affectionately touted as the King of Yarra’s Edge.

Made of about 65 tonnes of steel, the massive sculpture was constructed on Array’s rooftop over 12 weeks in 20 separate modules. Mirvac Group executive residential development, John

Ninety-three proposed developments have town planning approval and will yield 21,000 dwellings when constructed.

A further 92 developments have applied for permits totalling 26,000 dwellings.

The Development Activity Monitor data shows that 329,500 m2 of office space is under construction, in addition to 28,000 m2 of retail space, over half of which is smaller retail space that forms part of mixed-use residential developments.

Carfi, said Mirvac wanted to make both the rooftops of T5 and Array architecturally distinct to elevate the sightlines down the busy street.

“When people peer down Flinders Street they will now see, framed by the city’s mix of heritage and contemporary architecture, these two unique buildings crowned in sculptural steel,” Mr Carfi said.

YARRA POINT BEST

APARTMENT COMPLEX With expansive views of the glittering Melbourne CBD skyline and a diversity of apartment options for varying life stages, Mirvac’s Yarra Point tower was named Victoria’s best apartment complex at the 2014 HIA CSR Victorian Housing awards.

Yarra Point is Mirvac’s sixth apartment tower at its Yarra’s Edge precinct at Docklands, and features 201 apartments over 31 levels.

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Mirvac Group executive residential development Joh Carfi said significant research when into designing the building’s north-facing aspect.

“This award is fantastic recognition of Yarra Point’s intelligent design as well as the success of the entire Yarra’s Edge precinct which offers Melbourne’s best waterside living lifestyle, just minutes from the CBD.”

from areas once thought too expensive to drill. North America has benefited greatly from this, as both the USA and Canada have discovered vast new hydrocarbon reserves. These have allowed President Obama to drastically reduce his nation’s energy dependence from the Middle East.

In addition, cheap gas has rejuvenated American manufacturing, which is now rehiring workers by the tens of thousands.

Recently motorists have enjoyed the rare pleasure of buying petrol below $1 per litre. A production war between the world’s major producers has reduced oil prices by almost 60% in just six months – and this fuel glut is unlikely to correct any time soon.

Fortunately for car owners, major oil producer Saudi Arabia hasn’t taken the US energy challenge lying down. In an effort to force the American fracking industry out of business, the Saudis have decided to increase output from their huge oilfields. As a result world commodity markets are currently awash with fuel, thus depressing prices.

Technological advances in oil and gas extraction known as ‘fracking’ mean that fossil fuels can be extracted economically

Just how long can ultra-cheap petrol last?

I reckon the fossil fuel production war could continue throughout most of 2015. While no one is making a great deal of money with oil at just US$45 per barrel, both Saudi and American producers will try for quite some time to make each other blink first.

Cheap energy is also a bright spot for Australia’s economy in an otherwise dull landscape. Although local oil and gas shares such as Woodside, Santos and Origin have taken a hammering, commuters who burn through a tank each week are $30 to $40 dollars better off.

PROPERTY/BUSINESS/FINANCE

TOM ELLIOTT WRITES...

PETROL SHOULD STAY CHEAP FOR A WHILE

Motorists should devote this weekly petrol saving to paying off the mortgage.

You never know when either oil prices, or interest rates, may begin rising once more.

Tune in and listen to Tom between 3-6pm weekdays on 3AW’s Drive.

FREE

FARES FOR ALL

COMMUTERS HAVE EMBRACED FREE TRAM TRAVEL IN THE CBD SINCE IT WAS INTRODUCED LAST MONTH.

More than 70 tram stops in Melbourne’s CBD and Docklands have bright green signage to let passengers know when they are in the Free Tram Zone.

The Free Tram Zone follows the traditional CBD grid from Flinders Street to Victoria Street, and from Spring Street to the

Docklands precinct in the south.

Commuters will be able to travel much of the city without a ticket.

Vibrant signage will catch the eye, providing an instant reminder to passengers that they are in the zone and don’t need to touch on their myki.

Tram stops near the border of the Free Tram Zone will have signage to indicate where the zone ends to remind people to touch on if they haven’t already done so.

Drivers will also announce when trams are about to leave the Free Zone.

FEBRUARY 2015

15

3000 WELLBEING

THE CYCLE OF CHANGE:

ACCEPTANCE & LETTING GO

OVER THE LAST FEW ARTICLES, WE’VE DENIED THERE WAS A PROBLEM, WE GOT ANGRY AT OURSELVES, AT THE PEOPLE AROUND US AND AT LIFE IN GENERAL.

BY DANA ATKIN - PROFESSIONAL KINESIOLOGY PRACTITIONER We began to barter with people, with ourselves and even a greater power, in all manner of ways to get the result we want. We’ve even thrown ourselves into that hopeless, nothing will ever change feeling and we’ve felt no better for it.

HERE ARE SOME QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF: 1. Given the situation and what I knew at the time, did I make the right

decision for me at the time?

2. W ould I have done anything differently if the situation were to arise again?

3. What did I learn from the situation?

4. How does that knowledge assist me in moving forward?

We can sometimes forget that the less than nice situations bring with them

some great lessons and knowledge for us in our present circumstances as well as our future and this is how we make peace with it. Sometimes there are people to forgive (including ourselves) and that can take time, which is okay.

Forgiveness doesn’t always come easily but once it does come, it frees us on all levels and helps us to really let go.

How can I improve next time?

Once we’ve made peace with the situation, we’re able to let go with a sense of calm and an all important sense of choice. Sometimes, there was nothing else that could be done, and that’s okay. Sometimes there was something more that could have been done and we either made the right decision at the time with the information we had or made a decision regardless of the information we had at the time. The key is to learn from it.

Being human means that we are constantly learning, growing and evolving and that in turn means that these cycles of change can be constant, although varying in depths and intensities. But if we choose to, we can use them as a cycle of improvement, a cycle of change that makes us better in some way. If we choose to, we can harness this cycle and use it to our advantage and come out the other side of the cycle stronger and wiser than when we started it.

Using the example of weight loss, it’s often when we finally accept ourselves and our situation instead of denying there’s an issue, instead of fighting against ourselves, instead of striking deals with ourselves about our workouts or our food choices, that we’re finally able to let go of the excess weight.

What worked? What didn’t?

DOING IT FOR THE KIDS: ARRESTING THE GLOBAL CHILDHOOD OBESITY EPIDEMIC

BY SUZANA TALEVSKI –

TELEVISION FITNESS PRESENTER AND INSTRUCTOR About one quarter of children in Australia are overweight or obese, according to the Australian Health and Welfare Institute.

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Sadly, research shows that overweight children are more likely to become overweight adults.

Instead of starting this year with the usual tips on getting rid of the holiday season excesses, I think it’s important

to put the focus on making sure we don’t end up with a major health catastrophe as children swap playground adventures for long iPad sessions.

It is time society recognised this growing problem as one we must tackle together with parents/guardians leading the way.

It will come as no shock to tell you children become overweight when the energy they take in (through food and drink) is greater than the energy they put out (through physical activity and exercise).

Children who continue to be overweight into adulthood are at greater risk of developing: • Heart disease • Type 2 diabetes

• High blood pressure • Stroke • Joint problems • Breathing problems Schools, community sporting clubs and even fitness centres are making great inroads in placing the health and fitness of children as a top priority.

Always an innovator in fitness programs, Les Mills’ Born to move™ is a series of movement-based classes taking young people from toddler age through to their teens and creating positive physical habits they will keep for the rest of their lives.

Global fitness chain Fitness First has also embraced the idea with Fitness First Kids with classes open to all kids aged three to 12.

But the real work begins at home.

How parents/guardians influence the early years of a child is of critical importance.

Some simple things that can be done right away includes: • Involving the whole family in healthy eating and activity.

• Encourage active play and sport.

• Limit sedentary activities such as TV, screen games and computers to no more than one hour a day.

• Make a plan and stick to it, commit the health and well being of those you love.

However, before embarking on any health and fitness plans, if your child is overweight, it is important to seek the advice of a health professional to make sure an underlying medical condition is not the cause of the obesity.

TO PLATE But now I have a real respect for the area.

Docklands has a lot to offer and not just windy streets to help dry off your hair. There are many lovely waterside parks to relax in during lunch breaks, a modern library for quiet reading and a plethora of cafes to experience.

And this is just the Victoria Harbour side.

Imagine my excitement when I stumbled on another gem, Kelly Cube, the home of ReadyTo-Cook Meal Kits. These kits contain fresh, raw ingredients direct from local farmers and producers for you to cook at home. They also provide a fool-proof recipe so you feel like a gourmet chef. To make it even easier, each ingredient is proportioned to feed one if you’re solo or two if you have a hot date. Seriously, I wowed my guest with Kelly Cube’s Chicken Texas BBQ Taco that tasted like it was direct from a Texas Food Van. The chicken was succulent, the vegetables garden-fresh, the flavourings enticing and the corn tortillas simply yummy. What I liked most was the freshly made condiments that complement each ingredient.

Forget expensive and unhealthy take-away – Kelly Cube is the new way to take away.

They’re great for those of us who are busy and it’s so amazing how easy it is to create a delicious meal in several easy steps.

Kelly Cube really thought of everything.

The packaging is even re-usable before you recycle it – great for storage. All ingredients are used up so there’s no wastage at the end of the cook. And they offer free delivery (check website for locations) to your home, office or to a local shop. Called ‘convenient delivery’

3000 WELLBEING

FROM FARM

FOR THE PAST THREE MONTHS I’VE BEEN WORKING IN DOCKLANDS. ALTHOUGH I’VE LIVED IN SOUTHBANK FOR MANY YEARS, I RARELY WENT TO DOCKLANDS.

MISS MEANINGFUL COLUMN JANINE PHILLIPS AKA MISS MEANINGFUL is passionate about philanthropy and business with a love of combining the two living by the motto ‘one devoted person can initiate change’.

MAKE SURE YOU VISIT HER BLOG AT missmeaningful.com.au

they supply the meal you order to various places from North Melbourne to St Kilda.

Purchasing a Kelly Cube means you are also making a meaningful difference to Australia’s hard working farmers, local producers and small businesses. I often wonder how long my supermarket purchased vegetables have been sitting in cold storage before I buy them. Getting your meal direct and fresh from the farmer at such a reasonable price just makes sense.

So who is behind Kelly Cube? Founder and managing director Cam Joss is a passionate supporter of local Australian farmers and businesses. He’s one of those visionaries who could just see the beauty of bringing the farmers produce into people’s busy homes in the form of a prepared meal kit. Simple, fun, tasty and oh so delicious. Let’s get cooking.

Visit Kelly Cube at Yarra Waterside, 833 Docklands Drive, Docklands or order at www.kellycube.com.au

DID YOU KNOW? Docklands Spaces

Renew Australia

Kelly Cube is in one of Docklands Spaces.

Commissioned by the City of Melbourne, MAB Corporation, and Places Victoria, Docklands Spaces is a pilot initiative

by Renew Australia to activate some of the currently underutilised spaces in Docklands through incubating short-term uses by creative enterprises and independent local initiatives.

Renew Australia is a national social enterprise designed to catalyse community renewal, economic development, the arts and creative industries across Australia. It works with communities and property owners to take otherwise empty shops, offices, commercial and public buildings and make them available to incubate short-term use by artists, creative projects and community initiatives.

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THE FINAL WORD

RETURN TO WORK RESOLUTIONS

I’m talking about those everso-simple-but-frustratinglyannoying actions that we put up with all year, but right now – fresh off some sun and a solid season of festive eating – annoy us like the sound of a mosquito in the bedroom at night.

So in the spirit of New Year’s Resolutions, I would like to propose that everyone take on a few ‘Return to Work Resolutions’ in the name of office harmony.

Clearly, every workplace will have its own issues, but perhaps I could start the conversation with the following suggestions for 2015:

As I write this, I’ve been back at work a week.

It’s a glorious time in Melbourne – the weather has been a bit messy but the beach is still on the agenda, the tennis is in full swing, cricket has moved to the white ball, night markets are on, pop-up bars fill empty spaces… you can go on and on. And I’m at work.

Don’t get me wrong, I quite like my job and it clearly doesn’t stop me from enjoying Melbourne at any time of year, but there is no getting past the fact that I am, for large parts of the day, behind a desk.

Maybe I should have taken a little extra leave beyond the mandatory days … maybe the company could offer a scatter of January days that I could take off to enjoy this amazing time of year … maybe I should grow up and get on with things … but there is no denying that I am suffering from the ‘return to work blues’ and am a little overly-sensitive to the office environment at the moment.

To be fair, you can probably relate this firstworld problem to any time you come back from holidays – but I do think there’s added tension when everyone has had a break and we all come back together. We’re all feeling it. magmedia.com.au

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It is times like these that we all need to be on our best behaviour. I’m not referring to actions related to company policy – clearly they should be adhered to at all times – I’m talking about those little things that affect each other.

• I will take a minute to restock the coffee/tea/sugar rather than leaving a skerrick in the bottom of the container for the next person to deal with.

• I will take a minute to restock paper in the printer, rather than build up a backlog of some 50 pages waiting for someone else to get a new pack.

• I will limit the amount of photos I show from the family holiday to a maximum of five or until there is a visible or audible yawn.

• I will recognise that the speaker phone function is only for use in conference calls or if recording an interview.

• I will not smugly pronounce that the summer has provided “a perfect platform for new healthy eating habits and exercise which is making me feel amazing”.

• I will be more aware of the noises I make when eating/thinking/ typing/rearranging my desk.

• I will turn my mobile phone to silent or … at the very least … change it from the horrible ‘summer hit song’ that is currently on there.

Pedantic? Yes. Petty? Probably. But while there is so much going on outside these walls, perhaps we could help each other ease into a new year.

Got an office gripe of your own?

Email it to jg_green@hotmail.com

JONATHAN GREEN TAKES A CLOSE LOOK AT THE NOT-SO-SERIOUS ISSUES OF THE WORKPLACE.