Melbourne Observer. December 19, 2019

Melbourne

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NEW WBIZ ★ LIFES TYLE ★ TR AVEL ★ FEA TURES ★ BARGAINS ★ SPORT NEWSS ★ SHO SHOWBIZ LIFESTYLE TRA FEATURES

Melbourne

Observer

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Ph 1800 231 311 Fx 1800 231 312

Port Melbourne

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 , 2018

VICTORIA’S INDEPENDENT WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

49TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION $2.95

S TATE EDITION Vol 50 No 1720 SERVING VICTORIA SINCE 1969

HAPPY CHRISTMAS including GST

Great apartments in Cairns

Argosy On The Beach

Grosvenor in Cairns Holiday Apartments Fully Self Contained 1 and 2 bedroom apartments Looking to escape the cold this winter; then head on up to Cairns - always warm!

Book direct 07 4055 3333 www.argosycairns.com Turn to Page 49

Visit www.grosvenorcairns.com.au or email info@grosvenorcairns.com.au

or ring 1800 629 179

SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 53

● See Page 70 FRANCSHISEES WANTED URGENTLY Melbourne Metro and Country Vic Options available; Some territories already trading; Some leads provided Low cost entry

● Santa Claus, pictured with David Foong, was at a Freemasons charity ball function on Saturday, raising funds for Christmas gifts for disadvanted children. Turn to Page 13 for more photos.

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CENTRE STATE DRILLING Victorian Selective Entry High Schools See details of the four schools strategically located around Melbourne.

● See advert, back page

See ad on Page 8 Camberwell Sewing Centre

LATEST SPECIALS Turn to Page 52

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Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018

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Best Places

STOP - before you 'flick' the page over … read on (it's worth it)

ANOTHER AD….? YEAH ... But a "great" little ad and worth reading! NOW is the time to be planning and booking a holiday away from Melbourne … to the and sun of Cairns in Far North Queensland.. What a fantastic time to visit; You won't find any 'advertising hype' here … we don't need to talk like that; we just give you the plain, simple truth about what we offer - great accommodation in Cairns at a good price. Choose from a 1 or 2 bedroom, fully self-contained apartment that is complete with a full kitchen, large living room, bathroom with walk in shower plus FOXTEL and air-conditioning. FREE WiFi & FREE use of the 24/7 fitness center/gym across the road. The pool is solar heated so even in winter when the temperature is down a bit the pool is still usable (21 to 25 degrees as opposed to 17 degrees in an unheated pool). Adjacent to the pool is an undercover meals/BBQ area that has a shower room and bathroom. SO … COME ON UP…. Contact us now!

Grosvenor In Cairns

GROSVENOR IN CAIRNS SPECIALS for Melbourne Observer readers only (must mention this ad when booking)

10% discount on whatever the price shown on our website is! Our website prices are the "lowest" available (except for this special)

10% off - plus an arrival taxi transfer and a bottle of wine SO … visit our website …. Choose your holiday dates and Accommodation type … and then ring or email (don't forget to mention this Ad) … and we will take care of the rest for you! www.grosvenorcairns.com.au PHONE 1800 629 179 (Toll free call - within Australia only) 07 4031 8588 (from outside Australia ring 61 7 4031 8588) 07 4031 8521 (from outside Australia ring 61 7 4031 8521) Mobile 0403 15 0805 EMAIL info@grosvenorcairns.com.au (accounts/information) reception@grosvenorcairns.com.au (bookings) SEND MAIL PO Box 2735 Cairns, Queensland. 4870 STREET ADDRESS 186 to 188 McLeod Street Cairns (on the corner of Grove St)

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Australia-wide. Follow us on Instagram: UniqueFrenchBulldogs_

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 9

Melbourne

Observer Showbiz News Melbourne

Observer Bad Auditions by Bad Actors inc orpor ating the Melbourne A d vvertiser ertiser incorpor orpora Ad ertiser,, Melbourne T ict orian Rur al Ne ws Trrader ader,, V Vict ictorian Rural New and Melbourne Seniors News . Victoria’s Independent Newspaper First Published September 14, 1969 Every W ednesda y Wednesda ednesday

Contact Us Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, 3095 Postal: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095 Phone: +61 3 9439 9927 Fax: +61 3 9431 6247 Web: w ww .MelbourneObserv e rr..c om.au .MelbourneObserve or@MelbourneObserv e rr..c om.au E: Edit ditor@MelbourneObserv or@MelbourneObserve

Our Team Editor: Ash Long Features Editor: Peter Mac Columnists: Len Baker (harness racing), Matt Bissett-Johnson (cartoonist), David Ellis (wine and travel), Rob Foenander (country music), Kerry Kulkens (astrology), Nick Le Souef (outback Australia), Mike McColl Jones (life), Greg Ne wman (r adio ), T erry Radf or d ((C Court ewman (radio adio), Terry Radfor ord roundsman), Aaron Rourke (movies), Ted Ry an (r acing), Jim Sherlock Ryan (racing), (movies, DVDs), Cheryl Threadgold (local thea e ), K evin T wbiz), theatt rre Ke Trrask ( sho showbiz), Ga Wood (Hollyw V eritas, G a vin W ood (Holly w ood). Honorary Reviewers: Mark Briggs, Rita Crispin, Martin Curtis, Sherryn Danaher Danaher,, Barbara Lyn Ka Barbar a Hughes, L yn Hurs t, K a thryn Keeble, Beth Klein, Deborah Marinaro, Gr aeme McC oubrie therine egor McCoubrie oubrie,, Ca Catherine therine,, McGr McGregor egor,, David McLean, Maggie Morrison, Jill Pa g e ylie Rackham, Elizabeth Semmel. e,, K Kylie Arts: Peter Kemp. Distribution: Sam Fiorini, phone 9482 1145

Distribution S ta dition: A vailable w eekly a tatte E Edition: weekly att approx. 400 newsagents across the Melbourne metropolitan area, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf coast, and Victorian regional centres. Recommended retail price: $2.95.

■ Brighton Theatre Company closed 2018 with a Youth Season presentation of the comedy Bad Auditions by Bad Actors at the Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre. Written by Ian McWethy and directed by Carina Field, the play takes place during casting for a Brown Fox Community Theatre production of Romeo and Juliet. More than 20 varied auditionees present their own unique interpretation of a monologue or scene, leaving director Carol Daynes (Alex Mallis) and assistant Rosie (Emma Docherty) with a casting dilemma. Six versatile real-life young actors multi-role played 23 characters, using terrific energies, physicality and characterisations. Alex (Carol) sustained her dialogue well, and Emma (Rosie) presented a personable, enjoyable performance. The audition process entertains as acting rules are broken, and some auditionees insist on doing things their own weird way. The multi-role playing provides a wonderful showcase for the talented young performers, who included Jessica Ride, Charlotte Baker, Ellana De Nardis, Rhys Brain, Ellis Wood and Sally Hui. From an audience perspective, more conflict was needed to sustain interest throughout the predictability of various characters auditioning with idiosyncrasies. I believe the solution could be to establish Rosie as an antagonist which is how she is initially introduced byAvery. Any problems unfortunately subsequently disappeared and her character became too similar to Carol’s. An enjoyable night’s entertainment and congratulations to Brighton Theatre Company and Carina Field and her cast. - Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Performance Management ■ At Chapel Off Chapel there was no program at the performance of Performance Management by Scott Hollingsworth . So I read the blurb on the website. Where can you marvel at the antics of clown, witness juggling on a grand scale, gawk at a cavalcade of crazies in a modern freak show and get paid for the privilege? Forget waiting for the circus to come to town … it all plays out in every office, every day. Join Scott Hollingsworth as he reels off hit after spoofed hit. No song is safe in this satirical romp around the modern day office. Lady Gaga, Adele, Britney, Les Miserables, Chicago and even Disney feel the sting of the ringmaster’s whip in this comic musical cabaret. Anyone that works in an office will relate to these laugh out loud shenanigans. Please forgive this long quotation but it was the only information offered. Much was promised: but less given, I thought. One of the four unacknowledged performers juggled in the finale tableau. Jessica Robbins (I discovered her name after the show) proved an accomplished aerialist on trapeze ring and ribbons. Of the others ... a strong man and a man in a lion suit, took roles as clown/stereotypical office workers, hypochondriac winger, lazy delegator of his work etc etc. But as for things ..on a grand scale - no. Now as to the star of this marriage of circus skills, short sketches from the four unacknowledged, Scott himself in bad long wigs and falsetto voice (a hint of gynophobia I thought) finally presented cabaret of borrowed song , “the reeled off hit after spoofed hit.” Unlike Ms Robbins, Scott sings indifferently and sometimes misses pitch, acts without conviction and left me wanting less. - Review by by Peter Green

Observations

with Matt Bissett-Johnson

Melbourne Observer Online 2. 2.11 million hits annually annually.. ww w.MelbourneObserv e rr..com.au .MelbourneObserve You can rread ead our paper fr ee on the free internet. Contact details for our advertisers are also available at our website.

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The Melbourne Observer is printed under contract by Streamline PressPty Ltd, 155 Johns t, Fitzr o y, ffor or the publisher Johnstt on S St, Fitzro publisher,, Local Media Pty Ltd. ABN 67 096 680 063, of the registered office, 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095. Distributed by All Day Distribution. Responsibilityfor election and referendum comment is accepted by Ash Long. Copyright © 2018, Local Media Pty Ltd. ACN 096 680 063.

ARIES: (March 21-April 20) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 9-5-3-8 Lotto Numbers: 18-24-26-21-32-33 Attention to details during this period is vital and anything you sign should be looked into by professionals. Some problems could arise on the domestic sector but nothing you can't handle. TAURUS: (April 21- May 20) Lucky Colour: Light Blue Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 2-9-6-3 Lotto Numbers: 3-12-21-24-26-42 You could be more interested in having fun than doing what you should just now. Do the important matters first and then you can let yourself go and enjoy life also. Some luck with a Cancer person. GEMINI: (May 21- June 21) Lucky Colour: Green Lucky Day: Saturday Racing Numbers: 3-5-4-2 Lotto Numbers: 5-9-17-22-28-42 You could be in need of some kind of advice and when you get it make sure you use it wisely. Legal and real estate matters should be handled with care and by experts. Romance should be improving. CANCER: (June 22- July 22) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 2-7-8-9 Lotto Numbers: 2-13-16-27-32-36 If you have been showing the best side of you to your superiors now could be the time when you can benefit from it. Something you did well in the past will be bringing you rewards now. LEO: (July 23-August 22) Lucky Colour: Red Lucky Day: Thursday Racing Numbers: 1-5-6-8 Lotto Numbers: 7-11-12-30-34-43 Surprising period in which nothing seems to work the way you expected it to. Not a time to plan anything long lasting as situations change rapidly. Some luck with a person from your past. VIRGO: (August 23- September 23) Lucky Colour: Black Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 2-4-6-9 Lotto Numbers: 9-14-18-27-36-45 Money matters are very much in the forefront during this period. Decisions about investments or purchases to be made. In the domestic sector you could do well with some tact and understanding.

SCORPIO: (October 24- November 22) Lucky Colour: White Lucky Day: Friday Racing Numbers: 6-5-3-2 Lotto Numbers: 5-7-11-21-26-31 After a feeling of disappointment you should get a nice surprise that will restore your faith in humankind. Relationship matters could be decided on and permanent arrangements made very soon.

Across The World

Independently Owned and Operated

with Kerry Kulkens

LIBRA: (September 24- October 23) Lucky Colour: Silver Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1-6-7-9 Lotto Numbers: 5-14-23-27-33-44 Do not let yourself be fooled by one lucky strike. Most of your money will have to be earned and worked for; also silly shopping is out during this period or something you have planned will not eventuate.

If your local newsagent does not curr ently ssttock the Melbourne Observ e rr,, currently Observe why not place a weekly order with them, by using their ‘putaway’ service. Newsagents should contact All Day Distribution Pty Ltd, 169 Burwood Road, Hawthorn, Vic 3122. Phone: (03) 9482 1145.

Back Copies - Archives ww w.MelbourneObserv e rr..com.au .MelbourneObserve Back copies for 1969-89, 2002-15 may be inspected by appointment at the State Library of Victoria. 328 Swanston St, Melbourne.

Your Stars

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5

THE T OP 5 THINGS TOP WE MIGHT WELL SEE IN 2019 5. Lego to build the Mexican wall. 4.A Royal Commission into a Royal Commission. 3. Harold Holt discovered in the DESAL plant. 2.Winx busted for speeding. 1. Merry Christmas and a Happy NewYear to all.

SAGITTARIUS: (November23- December 20) Lucky Colour: Light Green Lucky Day: Sunday Racing Numbers: 1-3-2-4 Lotto Numbers: 2-16-18-19-26-28 For the young at heart and the unattached this could be a very exciting time, busy social life and many offers around. Financial matters might not work as well but little progress is evident. . CAPRICORN: (December 21- January 19) Lucky Colour: Brown Lucky Day: Tuesday Racing Numbers: 6-7-8-3 Lotto Numbers: 4-13-22-31-35-39 If you cannot do the job yourself make sure the instructions to others are clear enough as mistakes are possible during this period. There is a possibility of some changes in your work situation. AQUARIUS: (January 20- February 19) Lucky Colour: Fawn Lucky Day: Wednesday Racing Numbers: 1-5-6-8 Lotto Numbers: 15-23-31-33-35-44 Some changes are needed but you must use tact in introducing them to other members of the household. A very lucky period coming up and travel is very much on the agenda for you. PISCES: (February 20- March 20) Lucky Colour: Lemon Lucky Day: Monday Racing Numbers: 1-5-6-7 Lotto Numbers: 2-16-18-23-29-44 Long distance planning should be done very soon as the time will come when your plans are needed. Changes will happen but they should not upset you too much. Be flexible in your time with loved ones. KERRY K ULKENS PSYCHIC LINE 190 2 240 051 or 1800 727 727 CALL COST: $5.50 INC G.S.T. PER MIN. MOB/P AY EXTRA. VISIT KERR Y KULKENS MAGIC SHOP AT 1 693 BURWOOD HWY BEL G RAVE PH/FAX (03) 9754 458 7 W W W.KERRY KULKENS. COM.A U Like us on Facebook

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BRIGHT. Bright Newsagency. 28 Ireland St. BRIGHTON. Middle Brighton Newsagency. 75-77 Church St. BRIGHTON NORTH. North Brighton Authorised Newsagency. 324 Bay St. BULLEEN. Thompsons Road Newsagency. 123A Thompsons Rd. BUNDOORA. Bundoora Centre Newsagency. Shop 3, 39 Plenty Rd. BURNLEY. Burnley Newsagency. 375 Burnley St. BURWOOD EAST. East Burwood Newsagency. 16 Burwood Hwy. CAMBERWELL. Burwood Newsagency. 1394 Toorak Rd. CAMBERWELL. Camberwell Centre Newsagency. 628 Burke Rd. CAMBERWELL. Camberwell Market Newsagency. 513 Riversdale Rd. CAMBERWELL. Through Road Newsagency. 18 Through Rd. CANTERBURY. Canterbury Newsagency. 104 Maling Rd. CARLTON. Lygon Authorised Newsagency. 260 Lygon St CARLTON NORTH. Rathdowne Newsagency. 410 Rathdowne St. CARRUM. Carrum Newsagency. 514 Station St. CASTLEMAINE. Castlemaine Newsagency. Shop 1, 45 Mostyn St. CAULFIELD EAST. Caulfield Newsagency. 14 Derby Rd. CAULFIELD NORTH. Junction Newsagency. 71 Hawthorn Rd. CHADSTONE. Supanews Chadstone. Shop 261, Chadstone Shopping Centre. CHARLTON. Charlton Newsagency. 69 High St. CHELSEA. Chelsea Newsagency. 403 Nepean Hwy. CHELTENHAM. Cheltenham Newsagency. 332 Charman Rd. CLAYTON. Clayton Newsagency. 345 Clayton Rd. CLIFTON HILL. Clifton Hill Newsagency. Queens Pde. COBURG. Coburg Newsagency. 481-483 Sydney Rd. COLAC. Blanes Newsagency. 164 Murray St. COWES. Cowes Newsagency. 44-46 Thompson Ave. CRAIGIEBURN. The Lucky Charm. Craigieburn Central. 340 Craigieburn Rd CRANBOURNE. Cranbourne Newsagency. 105 High St. CROYDON. Burnt Bridge Newsagency. 434 Maroondah Hwy. CROYDON. Croydon Newsagency. 166 Main St. CROYDON NORTH. Croydon North Newsagency. 5 Exeter Rd. CROYDON SOUTH. Eastfield Newsagency. 7 The Mall. DANDENONG. Lonsdale Newsagency. 216 Sunnyside Ave. DAYLESFORD. Daylesford Newsagency. 45 Vincent St. DELACOMBE. Ballarat Authorised Newsagency. 1 Laidlaw Drive. DENILIQUIN. Deniliquin Newsagency and Bookstore. 14 Napier St. DIAMOND CREEK. Diamond Creek Newsagency. 62A Hurstbridge Rd. DINGLEY. Dingley Newsagency. Shop 2, Dingley Village. DOVETON. Doveton News & Lotto. 37 Autumn Place. DROMANA. Dromana Newsagency. 177 Point Nepean Hwy. DROUIN. MVH News. 93 Princes Way. DRYSDALE. Drysdale Newsagency. 14 High St. EAGLEMONT. Eaglemont Lucky Lotto News and Post. 60 Silverdale Rd. EDITHVALE. Edithvale Newsagency. 253 Nepean Hwy. ELSTERNWICK. Elsternwick News & Lotto. 444 Glenhuntly Rd. ELTHAM. Eltham Newsagency and Toyworld. Shop 2, 963 Main Rd. EMERALD. Emerald Newsagency. Main St. ESSENDON. Essendon Newsagency. 15a Rose St. ESSENDON. Roundabout Newsagency. 85 Fletcher St. ESSENDON NORTH. North Essendon Newsagency. 1085 Mt Alexander Rd. FAIRFIELD. Fairfield Newsagency. 99 Station St. FAWKNER. Fawkner Newsagency. 54 Bonwick St. FAWKNER NORTH. Moomba Park Newsagency. 89 Anderson Rd. FITZROY. Fitzroy Newsaagency. Cnr Brunswick and Johnston Sts. FOREST HILL. Brentford Square Newsagency. 29-31 Brentford Square. FOREST HILL. Forest Hill Newsagency. Shop 215, Forest Hill Chase. GARDENVALE. Gardenvale Newsagency. 168 Martin St. GEELONG.. Geelong Newsagency and Lotto. 140 Moorabool St. GEELONG WEST. Murphy's Newsagency. 198 Pakington St.

GISBORNE. Gisborne Newsagency. Shop 20, Village Shopping Centre. GLENFERRIE. Glenferrie Newsagency. 660 Glenferrie Rd GLEN WAVERLEY. Kingsway Newsagency. Shop 4, 39 Kingsway. GLEN WAVERLEY. Syndal Newsagency. 238 Blackburn Rd. GLEN WAVERLEY. The Glen Newsagency. Shop 2, 065 The Glen Shopping Centre. GLENROY. Glenroy Newsagency. 773 Pascoe Vale Rd. GRANTVILLE. Grantville Newsagency. 1509 Bass Hwy. GREENSBOROUGH. Plaza News. Shop 4/5, Greensborough Plaza. GREYTHORN. Greythorn Newsagency. 272 Doncaster Rd. HADFIELD. Hadfield Newsagency. 120 West St HAMPTON. Hampton Newsagency. 345347 Hampton St. HAMPTON EAST. Hampton East Newsagency. 412 Bluff Rd. HAMPTON PARK. Hampton Park Newsagency. Shop 3, Shopping Centre HAWTHORN . Glenferrie South Newsagency. 546 Glenferried Rd HAWTHORN. Hawthorn News & Lotto. 89 Burwood Rd. HAWTHORN EAST. Auburn Newsagency. 119 Auburn Rd. HAWTHORN EAST. Auburn South Newsagency. 289 Auburn Rd. HEIDELBERG. Heidelberg Heights Newsagency. 35 Southern Rd. HEIDELBERG. Heidelberg Newsagency. 124 Burgundy St. HEIDELBERG WEST. The Mall Newsagency. Shop 18 The Mall. HOLMESGLEN. Holmesglen Newsagency. 637 Warrigal Rd. HUNTINGDALE. Huntingdale Newsagency. 290 Huntingdale Rd. INDENTED HEADS. Intended Heads Newsagency. 13 The Esplanade. KEILOR. Keilor Newsagency. 700 Old Calder Hwy. KEW. Cotham Newsagency. 97 Cotham Rd. KEW. Kew Newsagency. 175 High St. KEW NORTH. North Kew Newsagency. 93 Willsmere St. KINGSVILLE. Kingsville Newsagency. 339 Somerville Rd. KNOX CITY. Knox City Newsagency, Wantirna South. KNOXFIELD. Knoxfield Newsagency. 1597 Ferntree Gully Rd. KOOYONG. Kooyong Newsagency. 483 Glenferrie Rd. KYABRAM. Kyabram Newsagency. 117 Allan St. KYNETON. Collins Newsagency. 95 Mollison St. LANGWARRIN SOUTH. Langwarrin South Newsagency. 1/143-149 Warrandyte Rd LARA. Lara Newsagency. 44 The Centreway. LILYDALE. Lilydale Newsagency. 237 Main St. LOWER PLENTY. Lower Plenty Newsagency. 95 Main Rd. MALVERN. Lucky Malvern Lotto. 167 Glenferrie Rd. MALVERN. Malvern Newsagency. 114 Glenferrie Rd. MALVERN. Malvern Village Newsagency. 1352 Malvern Rd. MALVERN EAST. Central Park Newsagency. 393 Wattletree Rd. MALVERN EAST NEWSAGENCY. Waverley Road Newsagency. 336 Waverley Rd. McKINNON. McKinnon Newsagency. 163 McKinnon Rd MELBOURNE. Domain Newsagency. Shop 6, 401 St Kilda Rd. MELBOURNE. Flinders Street Newsagency. 65 Flinders St. MELTON. Newsxpress Melton. MENTONE. Mentone Newsagency. 24 Como Pde. MERLYNSTON. Merlynston Newsagency. 17 Merlyn St. MIDDLE PARK. Middle Park Newsagency. 16 Armstrong St. MILDURA. Klemm's Mildura Newsagency. 53 Langtree Mall. MILDURA. Mildura Newsagency and Lotto. 71 Langtree Ave. MILL PARK. Mill Park Newsagency. 4 Stables Shopping Centre. MITCHAM. Mitcham Newsagency. 503 Whitehorse Rd. MITCHAM NORTH. Mitcham North Newsagency. 228 Mitcham Rd MOOROOPNA. Mooroopna Newsagency. 84 McLennan St. MORDIALLOC. Warren Village Newsagency. 87 Warren Rd. MORNINGTON. Mornington Newsagency. 97 Main St. MORWELL. Morwell Newsagency. 176 Commercial Rd. MOUNT ELIZA. Mount Eliza Newsagency. 102 Mount Eliza Way.

MOUNT GAMBIER. Posters Newsagency. 79 Commercial St East. MOUNT MARTHA. Mount Martha Newsagency. 2 Lochiel Ave. MOUNT WAVERLEY. Pinewood Newsagency. Shop 59, Centreway Shopping Centre. MOUNTAIN GATE. Mountain Gate Newsagency. Shop 9B, Mountain Gate Shopping Centre. MULGRAVE. Northvale Newsagency. 901 Springvale Rd. MULGRAVE. Waverley Gardens Newsagency. Shop 44, Waverley Gardens. MURRUMBEENA. Murrumbeena Newsagency. 456 Neerim Rd. NARRE WARREN. Narre Warren Newsagency. Shop 1, Narre Warren. NEWBOROUGH. Newborough Newsagency. 30 Rutherglen St. NEWMARKET. Newmarket Newsagency. 292 Racecourse Rd NOBLE PARK. Noble Park Newsagency. 422 Douglas St. NORTHCOTE. Newsplaza Newsagency, Northcote Plaza. NORTHCOTE. Northcote Newsagency. 335 High St. NORTH MELBOURNE. Ledermans Newsagency. 234-244 Macauley Rd. NUNAWADING. Mountainview Newsagency. 293A Springfield Rd. PARKDALE. Parkdale Newsagency. 238 Como Pde. West. PASCOE VALE SOUTH. Coonans Hill Newsagency. 67 Coonans Rd. PASCOE VALE SOUTH. Paper N Post. 372-380 Bell St. PRESTON. Preston N’agency. 377 High St. PRESTON. Preston Town Hall Newsagency. 247-249 Murray Rd. PRINCES HILL. Princes Hill Newsagency. 607 Lygon St RESERVOIR. Broadway Newsagency. 279 Broadway. RICHMOND. Swan St Newsagency. 108 Swan St. RICHMOND. Vernons Newsagency. 308A Bridge Rd. RINGWOOD EAST. Ringwood East Newsagency. 52 Railway Ave. RINGWOOD NORTH. North Ringwood Newsagency. 182 Warrandyte Rd. ROBINVALE. Robinvale Newsagency. 67 Perrin St. ROSANNA. Rosanna Newsagency. 135 Lower Plenty Rd. ROSEBUD. Rosebud Newsagency. 1083 Point Nepean Rd. RYE. Rye Newsagency. 2371 Pt Nepean Rd. SALE. Sale Newsagency. 310 Raymond St. SANDRINGHAM. Sandringham Newsagency. Shop 5, 18-34 Station St. SCORESBY. Scoresby Newsagency. 14 Darryl St. SEAFORD. Seaford Newsagency. 124 Nepean Hwy. SEBASTOPOL. Sebastopol Newsagency. Shop 3, 'Safeway Complex'. SHEPPARTON. Goulburn Valley Newsagency. 314 Wyndham St. SHEPPARTON. Lovell Newsagency. 246 Wyndham St. SOMERVILLE. Somerville Newsagency. Shop 24, Plaza, Eramosa Rd. SOUTH MELBOURNE. Clarendon Newsagency. 9 Thistlewaite St. SPRINGVALE. Springvale Newsagency. 321 Springvale Rd. STRATHFIELDSAYE. Strathfieldsaye News and Lotto. Shop 5, 939 Wellington St. TARWIN LOWER. Tarwin Lower Newsagency. 45 River Drive. TATURA. Tatura N’agency. 138 Hogan St. TEMPLESTOWE. Macedon News and Lotto. THORNBURY. Normanby News and Lotto. 25 Macedon Rd TOORADIN. Tooradin Newsagency. 92 South Gippsland Hwy. TOORAK. Toorak Village Newsagency. 479 Toorak Rd. TORQUAY. Torquay Newsagency. 20 Gilbert St. TRARALGON. Seymour Street Newsagency. 83 Seymour St. TRARALGON. Traralgon News and Lotto. 51-53 Franklin St. TULLAMARINE. Tullamarine Newsagency. 2/191 Melrose Dr. VERMONT. Vermont Authorised Newsagency. 600 Canterbury Rd. VERMONT SOUTH. Vermont South Newsagency. Shop 14, 495 Burwood Hwy. WANTIRNA SOUTH. Wantirna South Newsagency. 223 Stud Rd. WARRAGUL. Warragul Newsagency. 43 Victoria St. WARRNAMBOOL. Reinheimers Newsagency. 145 Koroit St. WATSONIA. Watsonia Newsagency. Watsonia Rd. WHEELERS HILL. Wheelers Hill Newsagency. WODONGA. Mahon's Newsagency. 168 High St. YARRAVILLE. Yarraville Newsagency. 59 Anderson St.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

2

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 11

Observer Local PaperMagazine Magazine

Stateside with Gavin Wood in West Hollywood

West Hollywood meetsVictoria ■ Hi everyone, from my suite at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites comes this week's news.

Billions back to the US

WeHo-Melb. connection n It's not every day that international film director Rod Hardy and international hotelier Alan Johnson find themselves back in their hometown of Melbourne together. The two gentlemen spend most of the year at their respective West Hollywoodoffices. Alan Johnson is Managing Director of the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites in West Hollywood. and Rod Hardy could be anywhere in the world directing movies. Here they are lunching at the Botanical Hotel in South Yarra.

Goodbye Matt Lauer ■ All Matt Lauer-linked talent is being axed at Today in the wake of the disgraced anchor's departure, including his favourite producer and contributors possibly including chef Giada De Laurentiis. While trumpeting that Katie Couric is returning to NBC to co-host the Olympics opening, the network quietly announced that Lauer's top producer, Don Nash, "has decided to step away from his executive producer role at Today" after nearly 30 years at the show.

● Alan Johnson and Rod Hardy

Best of

Amazon expands

Radio at its silliest ■ Hugh Wilson, who created the CBS comedy WKRP In Cincinnati and directed the raucous hit film Police Academy in 1984, died at his home in Charlottesville, Virginia. He was 74. Hill & Wood Funeral Services of Charlottesville announced the death. No cause was given.

House of Horrors

■ The 13 siblings imprisoned by their parents in a California "horror house" were given just one meal a day and only allowed to shower twice a year, according to a horrific new report. A law enforcement source told NBC that rooms in the fourbedroom house were found soaked with urine. The news comes as investigators try to obtain statements from the adult children, who are being treated in Corona Regional Medical Centre while doctors are treating their underage siblings at a separate facility. Their parents, David and Louise Turpin, were arrested after their 17-year-old daughter escaped the house where three children were later found shackled to furniture and alerted police they were being held against their will. The couple faces nine counts of torture and 10 counts of child endangerment. The victims' ages range from 2 to 29, but investigators say they all look much younger, likely from stunted growth due to malnourishment.

First published Feb. 2018

GavinWood

From my Suite at the Ramada Plaza Complex on Santa Monica Blvd

■ Amazon said that it had whittled the list of possible homes for its second headquarters to 20, including centres of technology like Boston and some surprise locations like Columbus, Ohio. The full list of finalists leans toward locations in the Midwest and South and on the East Coast, and away from the tech-saturated hubs of the West Coast. Many of the finalists, including Dallas, Denver, Raleigh and Washington, were considered shoo-ins from the moment Amazon announced the search, largely because of the attributes that the company said it was seeking for its second home. Those criteria included a metropolitan area with a population of greater than one million and the ability to attract and keep strong technical talent. More unexpected was Amazon's selection of locations not typically thought of as tech centers, such as Columbus, Indianapolis, Miamiand Nashville. Los Angeles was the sole city from the West Coast to make the cut. Just as surprising was Amazon's rejection of applications from Detroit, Phoenix and San Diego. Although it received bids from regions in Mexico, Amazon narrowed its finalists to just American locations and one city in Canada: Toronto.

Weinstein wound up ■ While disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein is reportedly running low on cash, his former company has managed to keep paying its employees in the wake of the scandal that rocked the company. Final details are being hammered out in a sale of the Weinstein Co. that is expected to be announced soon. The film firm's being bought by a group led by Maria Contreras-Sweet, whose offer reportedly includes renaming the company and installing a women-led board.

Britney signs for LV

Out and About ■ Former White House chief of staff Reince Priebus enjoyed S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez. Jon Hamm stopped by Trois Familia. Music Producer Jerry Moss sat with Richard Donner at Mr. Chow. Ty Burrell checked out Eataly in Century City. Jaclyn Smith had dinner at Farmstop. Arianna Huffington shared the room with Howard Kurtzman for dinner at Toscana in Brentwood. Patrick Wachsberger and Rob Reiner also were in, separately. Charo had lunch at Il Fornaio in Beverly Hills. Riley Keough was at Deliah. Larry Flynt enjoyed dinner at Lawry's in Beverly Hills. Kristen Stewart checked in at Mary Coffee. Zoey Deutch lunched with family at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Adam Levine helped celebrate Chloe Bridges' birthday at Cleo Third Street in LA. It wasn't easy to command the spotlight at Stella McCartney's starry fall 2018 fashion show in Los Angeles, but new couple Chris Martin and Dakota Johnson turned many heads. While Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Quincy Jones, Goldie Hawn and Kate Hudson held court at Tuesday's event in Hollywood, the Coldplay front man was seen massaging the Fifty Shades Darker star's neck as they took in performances by Leon Bridges, Grimes, St. Vincent and Beck. Meanwhile, Sir Paul jumped onstage to sing Beatles songs Helter Skelter and I Saw Her Standing There with a cover band as the crowd went wild.

■ Apple, which had long deferred paying taxes on its foreign earnings and had become synonymous with hoarding money overseas, unveiled plans that would bring back the vast majority of the $252 billion in cash that it held abroad and said it would make a sizable investment in the United States. With the moves, Apple took advantage of the new tax code that President Trump signed into law. A provision allows for a one-time repatriation of corporate cash held abroad at a lower tax rate than what would have been paid under the previous tax plan. Apple, which has 94 per cent of its total cash of $269 billion outside the United States, said it would make a one-time tax payment of $38 billion on the repatriated cash. For years, Apple had said it would not bring its foreign earnings back to the United States until the corporate tax code changed, because such a move would be too costly. Now Apple's bet to hold back on paying such taxes is reaping rewards under the Trump administration.

■ Britney Spears has reportedly signed a deal for a new Las Vegas residency in 2019 just weeks after completing her last run in the city. The 36-year-old pop star is said to be returning to the stage for a new residency at Las Vegas' Park Theatre, inside the Monte Carlo resort, shortly after Lady Gaga completes her residency there. John Fogerty says he's annoyed that Taraji P. Henson's new film, Proud Mary, borrows from his popular song's name without his involvement. Fogerty does not own the rights to his infamous song. In a statement, he says "it irks me when people seek to capitalise on the popularity of my music" for their own financial gain. Henson plays a hit woman in Proud Mary. Its trailer uses Tina Turner's version of Fogerty's 1969 song. ● Matt Lauer

Nightstick to the knee ■ Tonya Harding's comeback tour just took a nightstick to the knee over her own greed and denial. The disgraced figure skater was dumped by her own publicist/agent for demanding that journalists pay fines if they dare ask about the kneecapping Nancy Kerrigan suffered ahead of the 1994 Winter Olympics. Michael A. Rosenberg, who represented Harding during the I, Tonya promotional tour, revealed the demand in a Facebook post

www.gavinwood.us

Ask for special rate

■ If you are considering a move to Los Angeles or just coming over for a holiday then I have got a special deal for you. We would love to see you at the Ramada Plaza Hotel and Suites, 8585 Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood. I have secured a terrific holiday deal for readers of the Melbourne Observer and The Local Paper. Please mention 'Melbourne Observer' when you book and you will receive the 'Special Rate of the Day'. Please contact: Joanna at info@ramadaweho.com Gavin Wood

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Victorian Leisure

Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry grows ■ Mike Dalmau has delivered the President’s Report for the Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry Association. “When you reflect back over the previous 12 months it becomes clear a lot has happened and many things have been achieved by LEHIA on behalf of its members. “Back in January we were involved with meetings regarding the future of GWTSon Houseboats with Jacobs Consulting. “LEHIA made submissions to this Review on behalf of its members. “When the report was handed down a lot of what LEHIA had been advocating for was included in this document. “LEHIA then made a submission to DELWPon this report. “Significantly, LEHIA then facilitated a joint letter of all Marinas on the Lake to the Minister for Water on this issue. “The first time all organisations had come together to sign a joint letter. The response from the Minister, via her department, has been encouraging and the views of LEHIA have been respected. We look forward to further outcomes. “In what has been a long-standing project of LEHIA to advocate for improved infrastructure to move houseboats of all sizes from the Lake Eildon Marina Ramp to the Lake Eildon Services Yard resulted in a visit by Jaala Pulford , Minister for Regional Development, earlier this year. “This resulted in the Minister returning in early October to make an announcement of funding to see this important infrastructure happen. “It was a pleasure to represent LEHIA and to thank the Minister for her strong support. “Minister Pulford announced the Floating City grant of $500,000 through Regional Development Victoria, together with $175,000 from Goulburn Murray Water; $50,000 from Murrindindi Shire Council and $50,000 from the Houseboat Industry through LEHIA. Thank you Minister. “This Floating City grant will enable a significant powerline to be placed underground and an upgrade to the road exit from the Lake Eildon Marina Launching Ramp. “This project will do four things: ■ Ensure a far safer work environment for all the people working on the houseboats. ■ Allow the more productive use of time with more work being undertaken at the factories and less work on the Lake with the cost advantages of this to houseboat owners. ■ Increase the competitive advantage of the local houseboat industry businesses; to encourage the Cluster Development advantages; to grow the industry and jobs here at Eildon. ■ This grant will help create the positive environment for confidence for more Investment in this Industrial area with more new factories and the resultant local jobs. “A special thank you for the work behind the scenes to enable this Floating City grant go to Stuart McConnell at Murrindindi Shire Council; Kim Chadband at RDV; Luke McNamara at GMW and the LEHIA Executive. “It just shows when there is collaboration and respect great things can be achieved to deliver local jobs. “After meetings with

Murrindindi Shire the works are expected to commence early next year. “The grant was not dependent on the Victorian State Election. “This Floating City grant has been the first that I can remember specifically for the houseboat industry (upgrades to the Point Worner Pumping Station have been paid for from Houseboat Fees). “This grant is different to recreational boating grants. It is significant that Government of both sides and the different levels of Government now appreciate the importance of the houseboat industry and the local jobs it provides. “It does demonstrate when you have an industry that maybe in competition with each other, but with ethics, you work together, you can achieve results where everyone wins. “Associated with the Infrastructure Grant, LEHIA applied to the Murrindindi Shire Council for a Innovation Program Grant to remove the Powerlines Section of the Infrastructure Grant. “LEHIA was successful with this application and the outcome was this was to be rolled into and part of the Infrastructure Grant Project. “We thank Murrindindi Shire Council for their support. “LEHIA also facilitated a photo shoot of houseboats on Lake Eildon with Murrindindi Shire Council. “This updated photography in their library to promote Lake Eildon and ensuring the houseboat industry is promoted. “Thanks to LEHIA member, Status Luxury Houseboats, in providing the houseboat for the photo shoot. “An issue arose with the removal of some of the bulk garbage bins assigned for domestic garbage for houseboats, before a long weekend. “These actions by GMW staff raised significant concern with affected members. “As some members are lessees of GMW they were uncomfortable in how to handle this situation. “As a result of this feedback, LEHIA took a leadership advocacy role and the LEHIA Executive wrote a letter to the relevant Ministers. “There is now a process in place

to work with the Marinas to find solutions to this issue. “During the year, LEHIA’s relationship with the State’s peak recreational boating body, BIA Vic, has continued to strengthen. “Steve Walker took over the role of CEO and an old friend returned in Ben Scullin. “The BIA Vic has supported initiatives of LEHIA as well as advocating for the whole industry with the recent very successful Ramp Rage campaign. “At a visit by BIA Vic, Steve and Ben, the issue of acquiring qualified staff and training staff was raised. “From meetings LEHIA representatives have had with people in the training industry at Lake Eildon, we were able to provide contacts to BIA Vic. “BIA Vic is now working with training organisations to help find solutions for the boating industry and our area. “One of the issues confronting the local houseboat industry is the availability of new houseboat licences. “This issue was raised with Minister Pulford and her advisor and the positive response was this issue should be considered as part of the “Activating Lake Eildon Project”. “LEHIA will continue to provide input into this extremely important project. The “Activating Lake Eildon Project” will be most important to the future of recreation at Lake Eildon and the potential it has to create many local jobs in a regional area that desperately needs them. “The success of the houseboat industry in providing local jobs and significant private investment has highlighted the opportunities available in this area. “The new Goulburn River Valley Tourism (GRVT) Destination Management Plan makes specific recommendations for Lake Eildon waterfront development. “This document feeds into the “Activating Lake Eildon Project”. “As a result of advocacy Lake Eildon is certainly on the radar with the Regional Tourism Body for this area. We thank GRVT for their support. “LEHIA is a member of

Murrindindi Inc and being part of this group has permitted LEHIA to have a voice with significant decision makers at Local Government and State Government level. “Further Murrindindi Inc has provided workshops and networking events to assist our member businesses. “It has been pleasing to see some members take advantage of these opportunities and attend some of these events. “The Murrindindi Shire Council is undertaking a review of its Tourism and Events Plan. “LEHIA is providing input to ensure the needs of the houseboat industry are considered as part of this Plan. “Members of LEHIA sit on the GMW Lake Eildon Land and On Water Management Plan Implementation Group. “Outcomes from this work recently have seen commitments to upgrades at three launching ramps on Lake Eildon. “Any issues confronting the houseboat industry are given a hearing at these important meetings. “GMW is a major player in the management of recreation on Lake Eildon. “The Victorian State Government policy of recognising the recreational value of waterways without impinging on or affecting water rights is significant. “The led to changes to the GMW Strategic Plan where one item in this Plan now states GMW will embrace recreation. “Also, the Minister for Water, Minister Neville, instigated the Strategic Advisory Panel Review of GMW. “This Review came up with 30 recommendations which were adopted by the Board of GMW. “This Review called for four separate distinct Business Units within GMW. One of these was for NonCore Business which effectively covers recreation. “LEHIA is very supportive of this SAP Review recommendations and looks forward to this being fully implemented.

“Interestingly after the recent Victorian State Election, Minister Neville is still the Minister forWater and she instigated this Review. “The state of the houseboat industry at Lake Eildon has never been better with now five significant houseboat businesses building and maintaining houseboats and a number of new smaller businesses all being kept busy. “The houseboatindustry is not all about the new larger houseboats, but they have been significant in revitalising the industry. “From my estimate we are getting very close to seeing 30 new large houseboats coming onto the Lake with many forward orders for next year and beyond. “This equates to around $40 million in private investment in new houseboats alone since the introduction of the new permitted sizes. This is significant in a rural area. “Then we can add on the investment in infrastructure like new marinas, etc. This figure does not take into account all the work on extensions, refurbishment and maintenance of existing houseboats. These works have been extensive as well. “Lake Eildon is currently at around 58 per cent of capacity or 3½ Sydney Harbours. “Worst case scenario for end of Irrigation Season in the middle of May 2019 is low 40 per cent or around 2½ Sydney Harbours. “From a recreation perspective we do not have a water supply problem, we might have access issues from time to time and technology can assist in overcoming them. Keep talking positively about the Lake. “During the year we engaged Teena Wait to provide admin support services. After coming to terms with the idiosyncrasies of the industry Teena has provided great support to LEHIA. Thanks Teena. “In concluding this report, the Lake Eildon Houseboat Industry is vibrant and thriving. It has never been busier. New local small businesses have commenced this year. “The industry is providing jobs. It is on the radar of decision makers and influencers at all levels of Government, be they politicians or bureaucrats. “Why is it so? It is because we are working together as an industry with a collective positive voice and we are producing jobs, jobs and more jobs. “It is extremely important that we as an Industry never forget that simple message. “Sometimes, it is important that older members remind some of the new players what it was like some eight years ago and they are benefiting from a lot of hard work that has been put in by the industry under the umbrella of LEHIA over these years. “As President of LEHIA I would like to thank the members for their support and more importantly the members of the Executive for their counsel, wisdom and advice. “We look forward to another exciting year for the houseboat industry and Lake Eildon in 2019. “Remember our motto is ‘we respect we are in competition with each other and at times we may have differences but working together we all win and this is evidenced by the houseboat industry having never been busier,” Mr Dalmau said.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 13

Observer Magazine

Freemasons and Families Christmas Dinner Ball. Photos: Ash Long

● Janis and Michael Holloway

● Santa Claus and raffle winner David Foong

● Wayne Motton and Sue Young

● Maria and Milton Tsaktsiras

● Robert Redman and John Blyth

● Wendy and Simon Browning

● Linda and Haydn Gregson

● Donna and Michael Nardella

● Scott Dando and Brendan Coolahan.

● Alex Tseros and Graeme Hawke

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018

Observer Magazine

■ The list of entertainment legends Geoff Manion interviewed in his long, successful radio career reads like a who's who of the 1960s and 1970s. Sammy Davis Jr, Jack Benny, Dudley Moore, Spike Milligan, Charlton Heston, Debbie Reynolds and Peggy Lee are some of the stars with whom Geoff shared a room and a chat as part of his shows. Throw in Ken Rosewall and Lew Hoad, Nat King Cole, Henry Mancini, Barry Manilow and Diana Trask, and there are few radio comperes who could boast such celebrity interviewing experience. Geoff grew up in Melbourne and was educated at Christian Brothers College in St. Kilda, leaving at 15 but not before making an impact. On leaving school Geoff was noted for his gentlemanly conduct, his manliness, his regularity, his attention to his studies, his scrupulous honesty, and his bright disposition. They were qualities he would carry throughout his life. They would lead to success in all his pursuits. His radio career began in 1937 when he worked at 7EX in Tasmania with John Devine, selecting music and writing copy for the sixday-a-week breakfast show. He moved to Perth with his family a year later and joined 6PM, again on the breakfast show. He also wrote and directed children's plays for the show.

Whatever Happened To ... Geoff Manion

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM

He then moved to 6PR where he took on the Sunday morning music show, compered the Jazz Jamboree, and also helped with cricket and football broadcasts. When World War II broke out he served with the RAAF as a navigator from 1941 - 1944. He returned to radio with 6PR and a highlight of his second stint there was calling the first subfour-minute mile run on grass, a feat achieved by Herb Elliott. He moved to Melbourne and joined 3AW before the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. He stayed with the station until his retirement. He took over the 4.30am breakfast show from its previous host ‘Happy Hammond’ and his cronies.

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Geoff also hosted a Sunday at One show. It was in that capacity that he scored interviews with some of the greats of entertainment, his crowning glories in an illustrious career. He retired from radio in 1985 but continued working, touring Australia as the MC with the Torville and Dean ice-skating show. Geoff was also the courtside announcer at the Australian Tennis Open and the in-house announcer at the MCG during test cricket matches. His later years were spent enjoying life in Melbourne's bayside suburbs with regular golf games at Woodlands in Mordialloc. Geoff was injured in a car accident. He appeared to have recovered but his health then deteriorated and he died soon after in June 2002. Geoff Manion, a well known, loved, and respected member of Melbourne, and Australian radio is survived by his wife Rosemary, sons Douglas and Michael, seven grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Kevin Trask Kevin can be heard on 3AW The Time Tunnel - on Nightline - Thursdays at 10pm with Philip Brady and Simon Owens. Mike Till Midnight - Saturday nights at ● Geoff Manion The always popular show included the long 9pm with Mike Brady and Chris Ryan. And on 96.5 FM running Biggles serial as well as guests, music, That's Entertainment - Sundays and what has now become a radio staple, the at 12 Noon for two hours. secret sound.

Way to go for high-flying execs OK. With John O’Keefe The Brady Bunch grows

■ The Melbourne clan of the Brady Bunch has grown on numbers with the arrival of a grandson for Mike Brady (pictured), born in Ireland and celebrated worldwide . The clan also celebrated the website of Michael Brady – son of Mike – going live. Michael is a talented artist and his claim to fame is drawing ships that travelled to Australia transporting English immigrants. Michael’s drawings are so authentic they already hang in a few board rooms. Visit his webpage - linerdesigns. com.au - it is time well spent, check it out.

Day in the life of Spice Girls

■ Rumour appears fact the Spice Girls - minus Posh - are being paid $3 million each for six shows for their return appearances in the UK. The girls could trouser even more if ticket sales exceed certain forecasts. Time will tell.

Runaway to the circus

● Airacrft maker Boeing’s ultimate in indulgence for the business person who has everything – a Boeing 777 passenger jet that normally carries up to 400 passengers, revamped to fly a mere handful to maybe 50 or so business executives, 5-star-hotel-like half-way around the world. ■ Aircraft maker Boeing has remeeting rooms, to lounges, sleeping leased details of the latest in its ultiareas with king- or queen-size beds, mate indulgences for the business dining alcoves serviced from the best person who has everything. of airborne kitchens, possibly games It’s a version of its 777 passenger rooms, cinemas and even Turkish jet that normally carries close to 400 steam-baths, plus any possibilities in passengers in three classes, but as the personal foibles from the weird to the company’s now-newest in top-of-thewondrous. range Business Jets, this one will more And it will have the longest range likely fly anything from a mere handof any executive jet flying, something ful to fifty or so, in an ambience more like 21,600km without stopping akin to a 5-star hotel suite. (Sydney to New York, as a compariAnd up to half-way around the son, is around 16,000km, and Sydney world, non-stop. to London a touch over 17,000km.) The BBJ 777-8 (Boeing Business To keep it in the air over such vast Jet 777-8) as it will be known when it distances, this new Boeing BBJ 777-8 goes to its first new owners in 2020 will fill-up with 180,000 litres of fuel, will cost around US$450m and will have fridge, freezer and pan(AU$623m), the buyer then turning it try space for enough of the best in food over to a specialist aircraft detailer and beverages to keep passengers who will outfit it at a cost of tens of and crew generously slaked from go millions more. to whoa no matter where they are flyAnd such outfitting could include ing. with David Ellis everything from work places and

Struth

■ The cream of Australia's best comedians are expected to be cast in a doco film about Sorlies Travelling Circus that toured provincial Victoria, Riverina and Queensland in the period 1940 -60s. Playing one night stands the acts included numerous big names from overseas who wanted to see the Aussie outback. Sorlies lost favour with audiences when TV arrived as many of the actors signed on with variety programs on the fledgling TVstations. Marty Fields is writing the doco that includes sketches once performed by his parents, Maurie and Val. Doco is due for cinema release mid-2019. Shane Jacobson is rumoured to be interested in a lead role.

Glenn Shorrock sings LRB

■ The bad blood battle as to who owns the name Little River Band takes another turn with Glenn Shorrock – now 72 - re-entering the recording studio to put down his latest EP titled Glenn Shorrock Sings Little River Band. Glenn reckons the record name is legal and it is sure to give the Yank nightmares as he legally owns the band name . New release contains most of Shorrock's best sellers and goes on sale March, 2019.

Surprise, surprise

■ Aussie man on hols with his son was strolling downtown in Hawaii. Dad was a tragic about basket baller Dennis Rodman and on this occasion was spotting wearing a jersey same as Rodman wore when playing for Chicago Bulls. Spotting got back to Rodman, the Melbourne man was tracked down and Rodman presented him with two new jerseys plus a chin wag with the man who counts Kim Jong-un as a pal . - John O’Keefe

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 15

Antiques and Collectables

JACK’S ANTIQUES Open 7 Days

After 30 years of trading in Sandringham we have moved to a new showroom, jam packed with interesting quality items, and constantly changing items including lots of antiques and modern furniture, bronze, clocks, vases, displays, French, leadlight, lots of colourful art, etc. We always buy anything of quality. 368 Reserve Rd, Cheltenham Ring Jack on 9583 7099, 0419 303 861

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This Month’s Sale Item is a ready-to-hang Limited Edition Art Print of Melbourne in 1882. This is a stunning Melbourne aerial view showing the historical development of the 1880's era. It is a beautiful reminder of our wonderful past and development.

day to remember. The apartments are spacious and well appointed. Santorini’s onsite facilities include a resort style swimming pool, half court tennis and a large BBQ & entertainment area. The resort is a non-smoking facility. Come and experience this unique and convenient location on the Sunshine Coast’s pristine coastline. Mention this advert or visit our website for special direct booking discounts. www.santorinitw.com

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Best Places

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Port Melbourne

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M & A McCormack FUNERALS Also trading as Bamfords F.S. Murrindindi 1800 080 909 Family owned and operated

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Observer Classic Books

Bleak House - by Charles Dickens All this and a great deal more he told us, not only with the utmost brilliancy and enjoyment, but with a certain vivacious candour — speaking of himself as if he were not at all his own affair, as if Skimpole were a third person, as if he knew that Skimpole had his singularities but still had his claims too, which were the general business of the community and must not be slighted. He was quite enchanting. If I felt at all confused at that early time in endeavouring to reconcile anything he said with anything I had thought about the duties and accountabilities of life (which I am far from sure of), I was confused by not exactly understanding why he was free of them. That he WAS free of them, I scarcely doubted; he was so very clear about it himself. “I covet nothing,” said Mr. Skimpole in the same light way. “Possession is nothing to me. Here is my friend Jarndyce’s excellent house. I feel obliged to him for possessing it. I can sketch it and alter it. I can set it to music. When I am here, I have sufficient possession of it and have neither trouble, cost, nor responsibility. My steward’s name, in short, is Jarndyce, and he can’t cheat me. We have been mentioning Mrs. Jellyby. There is a bright-eyed woman, of a strong will and immense power of business detail, who throws herself into objects with surprising ardour! I don’t regret that I have not a strong will and an immense power of business detail to throw myself into objects with surprising ardour. I can admire her without envy. I can sympathize with the objects. I can dream of them. I can lie down on the grass — in fine weather — and float along an African river, embracing all the natives I meet, as sensible of the deep silence and sketching the dense overhanging tropical growth as accurately as if I were there. I don’t know that it’s of any direct use my doing so, but it’s all I can do, and I do it thoroughly. Then, for heaven’s sake, having Harold Skimpole, a confiding child, petitioning you, the world, an agglomeration of practical people of business habits, to let him live and admire the human family, do it somehow or other, like good souls, and suffer him to ride his rocking-horse!” It was plain enough that Mr. Jarndyce had not been neglectful of the adjuration. Mr. Skimpole’s general position there would have rendered it so without the addition of what he presently said. “It’s only you, the generous creatures, whom I envy,” said Mr. Skimpole, addressing us, his new friends, in an impersonal manner. “I envy you your power of doing what you do. It is what I should revel in myself. I don’t feel any vulgar gratitude to you. I almost feel as if YOU ought to be grateful to ME for giving you the opportunity of enjoying the luxury of generosity. I know you like it. For anything I can tell, I may have come into the world expressly for the purpose of increasing your stock of happiness. I may have been born to be a benefactor to you by sometimes giving you an opportunity of assisting me in my little perplexities. Why should I regret my incapacity for details and worldly affairs when it leads to such pleasant consequences? I don’t regret it therefore.” Of all his playful speeches (playful, yet always fully meaning what they expressed) none seemed to be more to the taste of Mr. Jarndyce than this. I had often new temptations, afterwards, to wonder whether it was really singular, or only singular to me, that he, who was probably the most grateful of mankind upon the least occasion, should so desire to escape the gratitude of others. We were all enchanted. I felt it a merited tribute to the engaging qualities of Ada and Richard that Mr. Skimpole, seeing them for the first time, should he so unreserved and should lay himself out to be so exquisitely agreeable. They (and especially Richard) were naturally pleased; for similar reasons, and considered it no common privilege to be so freely confided in by such an attractive man. The more we listened, the more gaily Mr. Skimpole talked. And what with his fine hilarious manner and his engaging candour and his genial way of lightly tossing his own weaknesses about, as if he had said, “I am a child, you know! You are designing people compared with me” (he really made me consider

Charles Dickens myself in that light) “but I am gay and innocent; forget your worldly arts and play with me!” the effect was absolutely dazzling. He was so full of feeling too and had such a delicate sentiment for what was beautiful or tender that he could have won a heart by that alone. In the evening, when I was preparing to make tea and Ada was touching the piano in the adjoining room and softly humming a tune to her cousin Richard, which they had happened to mention, he came and sat down on the sofa near me and so spoke of Ada that I almost loved him. “She is like the morning,” he said. “With that golden hair, those blue eyes, and that fresh bloom on her cheek, she is like the summer morning. The birds here will mistake her for it. We will not call such a lovely young creature as that, who is a joy to all mankind, an orphan. She is the child of the universe.” Mr. Jarndyce, I found, was standing near us with his hands behind him and an attentive smile upon his face. “The universe,” he observed, “makes rather an indifferent parent, I am afraid.” “Oh! I don’t know!” cried Mr. Skimpole buoyantly. “I think I do know,” said Mr. Jarndyce. “Well!” cried Mr. Skimpole. “You know the world (which in your sense is the universe), and I know nothing of it, so you shall have your way. But if I had mine,” glancing at the cousins, “there should be no brambles of sordid realities in such a path as that. It should be strewn with roses; it should lie through bowers, where there was no spring, autumn, nor winter, but perpetual summer. Age or change should never wither it. The base word money should never be breathed near it!”

Mr. Jarndyce patted him on the head with a smile, as if he had been really a child, and passing a step or two on, and stopping a moment, glanced at the young cousins. His look was thoughtful, but had a benignant expression in it which I often (how often!) saw again, which has long been engraven on my heart. The room in which they were, communicating with that in which he stood, was only lighted by the fire. Ada sat at the piano; Richard stood beside her, bending down. Upon the wall, their shadows blended together, surrounded by strange forms, not without a ghostly motion caught from the unsteady fire, though reflecting from motionless objects. Ada touched the notes so softly and sang so low that the wind, sighing away to the distant hills, was as audible as the music. The mystery of the future and the little clue afforded to it by the voice of the present seemed expressed in the whole picture. But it is not to recall this fancy, well as I remember it, that I recall the scene. First, I was not quite unconscious of the contrast in respect of meaning and intention between the silent look directed that way and the flow of words that had preceded it. Secondly, though Mr. Jarndyce’s glance as he withdrew it rested for but a moment on me, I felt as if in that moment he confided to me — and knew that he confided to me and that I received the confidence — his hope that Ada and Richard might one day enter on a dearer relationship. Mr. Skimpole could play on the piano and the violoncello, and he was a composer — had composed half an opera once, but got tired of it — and played what he composed with taste. After tea we had quite a little concert, in which Richard — who was enthralled by Ada’s singing and told me that she seemed to know all the

songs that ever were written — and Mr. Jarndyce, and I were the audience. After a little while I missed first Mr. Skimpole and afterwards Richard, and while I was thinking how could Richard stay away so long and lose so much, the maid who had given me the keys looked in at the door, saying, “If you please, miss, could you spare a minute?” When I was shut out with her in the hall, she said, holding up her hands, “Oh, if you please, miss, Mr. Carstone says would you come upstairs to Mr. Skimpole’s room. He has been took, miss!” “Took?” said I. “Took, miss. Sudden,” said the maid. I was apprehensive that his illness might be of a dangerous kind, but of course I begged her to be quiet and not disturb any one and collected myself, as I followed her quickly upstairs, sufficiently to consider what were the best remedies to be applied if it should prove to be a fit. She threw open a door and I went into a chamber, where, to my unspeakable surprise, instead of finding Mr. Skimpole stretched upon the bed or prostrate on the floor, I found him standing before the fire smiling at Richard, while Richard, with a face of great embarrassment, looked at a person on the sofa, in a white great-coat, with smooth hair upon his head and not much of it, which he was wiping smoother and making less of with a pocket-handkerchief. “Miss Summerson,” said Richard hurriedly, “I am glad you are come. You will be able to advise us. Our friend Mr. Skimpole — don’t be alarmed! — is arrested for debt.” “And really, my dear Miss Summerson,” said Mr. Skimpole with his agreeable candour, “I never was in a situation in which that excellent sense and quiet habit of method and usefulness, which anybody must observe in you who has the happiness of being a quarter of an hour in your society, was more needed.” The person on the sofa, who appeared to have a cold in his head, gave such a very loud snort that he startled me. “Are you arrested for much, sir?” I inquired of Mr. Skimpole. “My dear Miss Summerson,” said he, shaking his head pleasantly, “I don’t know. Some pounds, odd shillings, and halfpence, I think, were mentioned.” “It’s twenty-four pound, sixteen, and sevenpence ha’penny,” observed the stranger. “That’s wot it is.” “And it sounds — somehow it sounds,” said Mr. Skimpole, “like a small sum?” The strange man said nothing but made another snort. It was such a powerful one that it seemed quite to lift him out of his seat. “Mr. Skimpole,” said Richard to me, “has a delicacy in applying to my cousin Jarndyce because he has lately — I think, sir, I understood you that you had lately — ” “Oh, yes!” returned Mr. Skimpole, smiling. “Though I forgot how much it was and when it was. Jarndyce would readily do it again, but I have the epicure-like feeling that I would prefer a novelty in help, that I would rather,” and he looked at Richard and me, “develop generosity in a new soil and in a new form of flower.” “What do you think will be best, Miss Summerson?” said Richard, aside. I ventured to inquire, generally, before replying, what would happen if the money were not produced. “Jail,” said the strange man, coolly putting his handkerchief into his hat, which was on the floor at his feet. “Or Coavinses.” “May I ask, sir, what is — ” “Coavinses?” said the strange man. “A ’ouse.” Richard and I looked at one another again. It was a most singular thing that the arrest was our embarrassment and not Mr. Skimpole’s. He observed us with a genial interest, but there seemed, if I may venture on such a contradiction, nothing selfish in it. He had entirely washed his hands of the difficulty, and it had become ours. “I thought,” he suggested, as if good-naturedly to help us out, “that being parties in a Chancery suit concerning (as people say) a large amount of property, Mr. Richard or his beautiful cousin,

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From Page 29 or both, could sign something, or make over something, or give some sort of undertaking, or pledge, or bond? I don’t know what the business name of it may be, but I suppose there is some instrument within their power that would settle this?” “Not a bit on it,” said the strange man. Chapter VII— The Ghost’s Walk While Esther sleeps, and while Esther wakes, it is still wet weather down at the place in Lincolnshire. The rain is ever falling — drip, drip, drip — by day and night upon the broad flagged terrace-pavement, the Ghost’s Walk. The weather is so very bad down in Lincolnshire that the liveliest imagination can scarcely apprehend its ever being fine again. Not that there is any superabundant life of imagination on the spot, for Sir Leicester is not here (and, truly, even if he were, would not do much for it in that particular), but is in Paris with my Lady; and solitude, with dusky wings, sits brooding upon Chesney Wold. There may be some motions of fancy among the lower animals at Chesney Wold. The horses in the stables — the long stables in a barren, red-brick court-yard, where there is a great bell in a turret, and a clock with a large face, which the pigeons who live near it and who love to perch upon its shoulders seem to be always consulting — THEY may contemplate some mental pictures of fine weather on occasions, and may be better artists at them than the grooms. The old roan, so famous for cross-country work, turning his large eyeball to the grated window near his rack, may remember the fresh leaves that glisten there at other times and the scents that stream in, and may have a fine run with the hounds, while the human helper, clearing out the next stall, never stirs beyond his pitchfork and birch-broom. The grey, whose place is opposite the door and who with an impatient rattle of his halter pricks his ears and turns his head so wistfully when it is opened, and to whom the opener says, “‘Woa grey, then, steady! Noabody wants you to-day!” may know it quite as well as the man. The whole seemingly monotonous and uncompanionable half-dozen, stabled together, may pass the long wet hours when the door is shut in livelier communication than is held in the servants’ hall or at the Dedlock Arms, or may even beguile the time by improving (perhaps corrupting) the pony in the loose-box in the corner. So the mastiff, dozing in his kennel in the courtyard with his large head on his paws, may think of the hot sunshine when the shadows of the stable-buildings tire his patience out by changing and leave him at one time of the day no broader refuge than the shadow of his own house, where he sits on end, panting and growling short, and very much wanting something to worry besides himself and his chain. So now, half-waking and all-winking, he may recall the house full of company, the coach-houses full of vehicles, the stables fall of horses, and the out-buildings full of attendants upon horses, until he is undecided about the present and comes forth to see how it is. Then, with that impatient shake of himself, he may growl in the spirit, “Rain, rain, rain! Nothing but rain — and no family here!” as he goes in again and lies down with a gloomy yawn. So with the dogs in the kennel-buildings across the park, who have their resfless fits and whose doleful voices when the wind has been very obstinate have even made it known in the house itself — upstairs, downstairs, and in my Lady’s chamber. They may hunt the whole countryside, while the raindrops are pattering round their inactivity. So the rabbits with their self-betraying tails, frisking in and out of holes at roots of trees, may be lively with ideas of the breezy days when their ears are blown about or of those seasons of interest when there are sweet young plants to gnaw. The turkey in the poultry-yard, always troubled with a class-grievance (probably Christmas), may be reminiscent of that summer morning wrongfully taken from him when he got into the lane among the felled trees, where there was a barn and barley. The discontented goose, who stoops to pass under the old gateway, twenty feet high, may gabble out, if we only knew it, a waddling preference for weather when the gateway casts its shadow on the ground. Be this as it may, there is not much fancy otherwise stirring at Chesney Wold. If there be a little at any odd moment, it goes, like a little noise in that old echoing place, a long way and usually leads off to ghosts and mystery.

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Observer Classic Books It has rained so hard and rained so long down in Lincolnshire that Mrs. Rouncewell, the old housekeeper at Chesney Wold, has several times taken off her spectacles and cleaned them to make certain that the drops were not upon the glasses. Mrs. Rouncewell might have been sufficiently assured by hearing the rain, but that she is rather deaf, which nothing will induce her to believe. She is a fine old lady, handsome, stately, wonderfully neat, and has such a back and such a stomacher that if her stays should turn out when she dies to have been a broad oldfashioned family fire-grate, nobody who knows her would have cause to be surprised. Weather affects Mrs. Rouncewell little. The house is there in all weathers, and the house, as she expresses it, “is what she looks at.” She sits in her room (in a side passage on the ground floor, with an arched window commanding a smooth quadrangle, adorned at regular intervals with smooth round trees and smooth round blocks of stone, as if the trees were going to play at bowls with the stones), and the whole house reposes on her mind. She can open it on occasion and be busy and fluttered, but it is shut up now and lies on the breadth of Mrs. Rouncewell’s iron-bound bosom in a majestic sleep. It is the next difficult thing to an impossibility to imagine Chesney Wold without Mrs. Rouncewell, but she has only been here fifty years. Ask her how long, this rainy day, and she shall answer “fifty year, three months, and a fortnight, by the blessing of heaven, if I live till Tuesday.” Mr. Rouncewell died some time before the decease of the pretty fashion of pigtails, and modestly hid his own (if he took it with him) in a corner of the churchyard in the park near the mouldy porch. He was born in the market-town, and so was his young widow. Her progress in the family began in the time of the last Sir Leicester and originated in the still-room. The present representative of the Dedlocks is an excellent master. He supposes all his dependents to be utterly bereft of individual characters, intentions, or opinions, and is persuaded that he was born to supersede the necessity of their having any. If he were to make a discovery to the contrary, he would be simply stunned — would never recover himself, most likely, except to gasp and die. But he is an excellent master still, holding it a part of his state to be so. He has a great liking for Mrs. Rouncewell; he says she is a most respectable, creditable woman. He always shakes hands with her when he comes down to Chesney Wold and when he goes away; and if he were very ill, or if he were knocked down by accident, or run over, or placed in any situation expressive of a Dedlock at a disadvantage, he would say if he could speak, “Leave me, and send Mrs. Rouncewell here!” feeling his dignity, at such a pass, safer with her than with anybody else. Mrs. Rouncewell has known trouble. She has had two sons, of whom the younger ran wild, and went for a soldier, and never came back. Even to this hour, Mrs. Rouncewell’s calm hands lose their composure when she speaks of him, and unfolding themselves from her stomacher, hover about her in an agitated manner as she says what a likely lad, what a fine lad, what a gay, good-humoured, clever lad he was! Her second son would have been provided for at Chesney Wold and would have been made steward in due season, but he took, when he was a schoolboy, to constructing steam-engines out of saucepans and setting birds to draw their own water with the least possible amount of labour, so assisting them with artful contrivance of hydraulic pressure that a thirsty canary had only, in a literal sense, to put his shoulder to the wheel and the job was done. This propensity gave Mrs. Rouncewell great uneasiness. She felt it with a mother’s anguish to be a move in the Wat Tyler direction, well knowing that Sir Leicester had that general impression of an aptitude for any art to which smoke and a tall chimney might be considered essential. But the doomed young rebel (otherwise a mild youth, and very persevering), showing no sign of grace as he got older but, on the contrary, constructing a model of a power-loom, she was fain, with many tears, to mention his backslidings to the baronet. “Mrs. Rouncewell,” said Sir Leicester, “I can never consent to argue, as you know, with any one on any subject. You had better get rid of your boy; you had better get him into some Works. The iron country farther north is, I suppose, the congenial direction for a boy with these tendencies.” Farther north he went, and farther north he grew up; and if Sir Leicester Dedlock ever saw him

when he came to Chesney Wold to visit his mother, or ever thought of him afterwards, it is certain that he only regarded him as one of a body of some odd thousand conspirators, swarthy and grim, who were in the habit of turning out by torchlight two or three nights in the week for unlawful purposes. Nevertheless, Mrs. Rouncewell’s son has, in the course of nature and art, grown up, and established himself, and married, and called unto him Mrs. Rouncewell’s grandson, who, being out of his apprenticeship, and home from a journey in far countries, whither he was sent to enlarge his knowledge and complete his preparations for the venture of this life, stands leaning against the chimney-piece this very day in Mrs. Rouncewell’s room at Chesney Wold. “And, again and again, I am glad to see you, Watt! And, once again, I am glad to see you, Watt!” says Mrs. Rouncewell. “You are a fine young fellow. You are like your poor uncle George. Ah!” Mrs. Rouncewell’s hands unquiet, as usual, on this reference. “They say I am like my father, grandmother.” “Like him, also, my dear — but most like your poor uncle George! And your dear father.” Mrs. Rouncewell folds her hands again. “He is well?” “Thriving, grandmother, in every way.” “I am thankful!” Mrs. Rouncewell is fond of her son but has a plaintive feeling towards him, much as if he were a very honourable soldier who had gone over to the enemy. “He is quite happy?” says she. “Quite.” “I am thankful! So he has brought you up to follow in his ways and has sent you into foreign countries and the like? Well, he knows best. There may be a world beyond Chesney Wold that I don’t understand. Though I am not young, either. And I have seen a quantity of good company too!” “Grandmother,” says the young man, changing the subject, “what a very pretty girl that was I found with you just now. You called her Rosa?” “Yes, child. She is daughter of a widow in the village. Maids are so hard to teach, now-a-days, that I have put her about me young. She’s an apt scholar and will do well. She shows the house already, very pretty. She lives with me at my table here.” “I hope I have not driven her away?” “She supposes we have family affairs to speak about, I dare say. She is very modest. It is a fine quality in a young woman. And scarcer,” says Mrs. Rouncewell, expanding her stomacher to its utmost limits, “than it formerly was!” The young man inclines his head in acknowledgment of the precepts of experience. Mrs. Rouncewell listens. “Wheels!” says she. They have long been audible to the younger ears of her companion. “What wheels on such a day as this, for gracious sake?” After a short interval, a tap at the door. “Come in!” A dark-eyed, dark-haired, shy, village beauty comes in — so fresh in her rosy and yet delicate bloom that the drops of rain which have beaten on her hair look like the dew upon a flower fresh gathered. “What company is this, Rosa?” says Mrs. Rouncewell. “It’s two young men in a gig, ma’am, who want to see the house — yes, and if you please, I told them so!” in quick reply to a gesture of dissent from the housekeeper. “I went to the hall-door and told them it was the wrong day and the wrong hour, but the young man who was driving took off his hat in the wet and begged me to bring this card to you.” “Read it, my dear Watt,” says the housekeeper. Rosa is so shy as she gives it to him that they drop it between them and almost knock their foreheads together as they pick it up. Rosa is shyer than before. “Mr. Guppy” is all the information the card yields. “Guppy!” repeats Mrs. Rouncewell, “MR. Guppy! Nonsense, I never heard of him!” “If you please, he told ME that!” says Rosa. “But he said that he and the other young gentleman came from London only last night by the mail, on business at the magistrates’ meeting, ten miles off, this morning, and that as their business was soon over, and they had heard a great deal said of Chesney Wold, and really didn’t know what to do with themselves, they had come through the wet to see it. They are lawyers. He says he is not in Mr. Tulkinghorn’s office, but he is sure he may make use of Mr. Tulkinghorn’s name if necessary.” Finding, now she leaves

off, that she has been making quite a long speech, Rosa is shyer than ever. Now, Mr. Tulkinghorn is, in a manner, part and parcel of the place, and besides, is supposed to have made Mrs. Rouncewell’s will. The old lady relaxes, consents to the admission of the visitors as a favour, and dismisses Rosa. The grandson, however, being smitten by a sudden wish to see the house himself, proposes to join the party. The grandmother, who is pleased that he should have that interest, accompanies him — though to do him justice, he is exceedingly unwilling to trouble her. “Much obliged to you, ma’am!” says Mr. Guppy, divesting himself of his wet dreadnought in the hall. “Us London lawyers don’t often get an out, and when we do, we like to make the most of it, you know.” The old housekeeper, with a gracious severity of deportment, waves her hand towards the great staircase. Mr. Guppy and his friend follow Rosa; Mrs. Rouncewell and her grandson follow them; a young gardener goes before to open the shutters. As is usually the case with people who go over houses, Mr. Guppy and his friend are dead beat before they have well begun. They straggle about in wrong places, look at wrong things, don’t care for the right things, gape when more rooms are opened, exhibit profound depression of spirits, and are clearly knocked up. In each successive chamber that they enter, Mrs. Rouncewell, who is as upright as the house itself, rests apart in a window-seat or other such nook and listens with stately approval to Rosa’s exposition. Her grandson is so attentive to it that Rosa is shyer than ever — and prettier. Thus they pass on from room to room, raising the pictured Dedlocks for a few brief minutes as the young gardener admits the light, and reconsigning them to their graves as he shuts it out again. It appears to the afflicted Mr. Guppy and his inconsolable friend that there is no end to the Dedlocks, whose family greatness seems to consist in their never having done anything to distinguish themselves for seven hundred years. Even the long drawing-room of Chesney Wold cannot revive Mr. Guppy’s spirits. He is so low that he droops on the threshold and has hardly strength of mind to enter. But a portrait over the chimney-piece, painted by the fashionable artist of the day, acts upon him like a charm. He recovers in a moment. He stares at it with uncommon interest; he seems to be fixed and fascinated by it. “Dear me!” says Mr. Guppy. “Who’s that?” “The picture over the fire-place,” says Rosa, “is the portrait of the present Lady Dedlock. It is considered a perfect likeness, and the best work of the master.” “‘Blest,” says Mr. Guppy, staring in a kind of dismay at his friend, “if I can ever have seen her. Yet I know her! Has the picture been engraved, miss?” “The picture has never been engraved. Sir Leicester has always refused permission.” “Well!” says Mr. Guppy in a low voice. “I’ll be shot if it ain’t very curious how well I know that picture! So that’s Lady Dedlock, is it!” “The picture on the right is the present Sir Leicester Dedlock. The picture on the left is his father, the late Sir Leicester.” Mr. Guppy has no eyes for either of these magnates. “It’s unaccountable to me,” he says, still staring at the portrait, “how well I know that picture! I’m dashed,” adds Mr. Guppy, looking round, “if I don’t think I must have had a dream of that picture, you know!” As no one present takes any especial interest in Mr. Guppy’s dreams, the probability is not pursued. But he still remains so absorbed by the portrait that he stands immovable before it until the young gardener has closed the shutters, when he comes out of the room in a dazed state that is an odd though a sufficient substitute for interest and follows into the succeeding rooms with a confused stare, as if he were looking everywhere for Lady Dedlock again. He sees no more of her. He sees her rooms, which are the last shown, as being very elegant, and he looks out of the windows from which she looked out, not long ago, upon the weather that bored her to death. All things have an end, even houses that people take infinite pains to see and are tired of before they begin to see them. He has come to the end of the sight, and the fresh village beauty to the end of her description; which is always this: “The terrace below is much admired. It is called, from an old story in the family, the Ghost’s Walk.”®

To Be Continued Next Issue

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Quantity Surveyors

Property depreciation services Just Depreciation is always going the extra mile to help all our clients whenever we can. We have decided to answer some of our frequently asked questions to help give you some advice and get a better understanding of our services to save you time and money. If, for any reason, there are still questions you would like to ask us about our property depreciation services then don’t hesitate to call our friendly team who would be only too happy to help. My property is old is it worthwhile getting a report prepared? Yes, all properties regardless of age have some form of depreciation. The fixtures and fittings in the property must be valued at the date that you first make the property available for rental. Just Depreciation recommend reports for all residential properties no matter how old the building may be. I have owned the property for a number of years and not claimed any depreciation, have I missed out? No, we will start your report from the first date of rental and your accountant can apply to the Taxation Office to get previous returns adjusted. It’s never too late to claim any property depreciation. How long does the report last for? Our reports have 10 years of detailed information and enough detail for your accountant to expand on the individual items after this date so you won't have to arrange for a another report unless you carry out major renovations or improvements. Do you guarantee your report will be worthwhile? Yes of course, and we guarantee that if you do not receive a deduction that is twice the amount of our fee in the first year, then the report will be free. We believe this is the fairest and best possible outcome either way for our clients. What is the process? Do I have to make appointments? No, we make the appointments on your behalf via your rental manager and liaise with tenants for a suitable time for the property inspection so you need not worry about a thing. What happens at the inspection? We measure the property, take photos, take note of all depreciable items and any capital building write off deductions that may apply and then return to the office to calculate and process the report.

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 31

Exceptional Lifestyle Property

This unique lifestyle property blends a serene private country lifestyle with the breathtaking views of the Gippsland Lakes. Situated on the Great Alpine Road, just five minutes from Bairnsdale, the property is accessed by a long tree-lined drive. The current owners have maintained the property at the highest level. The modern very open plan design is perfect for entertaining and takes advantage of the 300-degree vista with expansive terraces overlooking rolling lawns and sweeping views of the Gippsland Lakes to the south and snow-topped mountains to the west. mmaculately maintained park-like gardens surround the home, providing a peaceful environment to spend time watching the sunset, and enjoying a wine by the campfire. There are six well-fenced paddocks, two dams, town water, solar power and on-the-grid power. Ample shedding with bathroom and toilet enclosed. The residence is approx. 42 sq., four large bedrooms, main with walk-in robe and ensuite, office and large main room, open plan design for entertaining. Picture windows to enjoy the views of the Gippsland Lakes. There is also a country shack with kitchen, barbecue, and toilet faciolities for real country cook-outs. Five minutes drive from Bairnsdale CBD, train station, easily accessible to buses, an abundance of cafes and restaurants, supermarkets, boutique shops, hospital, quality schools and the beauty of the Gippsland Lakes close by. The only way to fully appreciate what this property has to offer is by “having a look yourself ” The owners will make you most welcome for any viewing. Contact: Kim Ashwood, 0421 868 147; Greg Carter, 0409 418 332.

$1.79 million

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Killingworth Hill Cafe & Whisky Bar 36 Killingworth Rd, Killingworth (Yea) Open 11am-8pm Friday-Sunday

Closed December 25 and 26

The café and whisky bar wil be open each day from 11am between Wednesday December 26 and Sunday January 13 Today’s Menu Charcuterie Boards: Your choice of a meat platter, cheese platter, terrine platter or fish platter all accompanied with fresh home grown and made produce, for example, vegetables, gluten free pesto’s, chutneys, nuts, etc,

Fresh Gourmet Pizzas Fresh Homemade Pies Dessert: As per display cabinet Teas/Coffee: Assortment of Herbal Teas and classic Teas & Coffee, Cappuccino, Latte Mug Short/Long Black or Plunger Coffee

Don’t forget our Famous Devonshire Tea We strive for excellence, we do not rest until our best is better We guarantee our products 100%. If unsatisfactory, please advise staff who will replace or refund immediately

Are you arranging your staff Christmas party or a get-together before the big day? The team at Killingworth Hill Café & Whisky Bar will happily host your party Why not call us to discuss your requirements and make a booking?

Killingworth Hill Cafe & Whisky Bar Phone: 0455 266 888 www.killingworthhill.com.au

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Observer Crossword Solution No 38 J U V E N I L E M A R S H A L S S H U F F L E S A B R A D I N G E O Y I F S E Y E A G L E L A G P O B N A E A S E D O F F O C C U P I E D P L A Y A C T S E U C A L Y P T R A O S P E D T R T E M P T T D A B E T S U S S A L I N E O A V O C A D O U O U T D O O R A A S T R A Y L L E P S O M R N V I L E R E U N A R K S R S I M P L O R E X M E N T H E C E G R E T S U N A T I V E S A W I G N I T E E O R C H I D S X M I D A I R S X I N V I T E S D M I A O W H N T I A R A I T U N E F U L A L S I O R L E A F I E R M R B L C A S C U L P T O R S I S S U E R T I N S E T L I F E S T Y L E W S A P E A R L R E A L I G N M E T E L L I N E V E N T F U L P S A L M S D A G R E E N E C Y L I N D E R D R L P V U F E L L S E R A W M D A D I N C L I N E R E E N T E R S S Y R I N G E S H E M M I N G S A O N O T A R A U A N N E P I L E E S E H E R E T I C I D I O T M I N E D S A N T O E A R T H E D R M T E N T S N I M P N R O E C O V A L S R L O N S P E C E E G G O N I D A H O R A Y O N P P L A Z A S I T H E A P E E G O S L M A T E R E P E E W T R E T Y P E N A S P S W H I S P E R R A C Y O C A L L E D E E A S I D E T T N N E C O H W R I T S I A I D E A S E T A R R A G O N R E L A P S E S T P L A I D C N T H I R D T O O E T A L S P I S T E N D H E Y D A Y T W I N G A B R A H A M A N T E O U N E A S Y X H E C H O O E L L A M S P I N R A N O N M U S P R A I N A I N A N E N O O K S M E D A L E N O B O D Y E B A L L I N N G O D E O R B E A D D L E E A E L L I P S E H O C H I A M B E R I N F E R E L U D I N G X E R M A T A E R G A T B E G O O F N N R P L A C E B O B E S T O W E D M E D I O C R E T W A D D L E A R V N I T N D A Z E D N T S W W O A N O N F A T A L T H R A S H T X I G L O O S P I C A D O R S D E I D A S I A O V A T I O N R U E D N R R E S H R I L L E S T P L E A S B C F E A S T R E G R E S S E S O N E H B T T E A C A K E M I I E T N I M P E A C H L O C H R E S N R O B I N B M A R A U D S E X H E R E I N I S T E T S O N L G A B L E S B L B R O A D E R T E N C A S E R M O D E M S L N O B B L E D U C R E F E R U N S W A M I E E B E G U N E S U N I T E S R O I L I E S T C T E E N A G E R S A D I S M N N V M A U L L M T H E F T P T N O A H B D O M A D W O M A N E P I L O G U E L I V E B A I T M A N H O L E S E I K L C D F N B A R O N N X G M T O E S T R A P E Z E S H A Y F E V E R E G G S H E L L Y E A R S D A Y

Church

Looking for a Professional to run the show? ★ Compere/Host ★ Auctioneer ★ Promotions ★ A-Grade Journalist ★ Voice-Over Commercials ★ Race Caller All Sports, Race Nights ★ TV, Radio, Press ★ Respected Member of the Media

Ted Ryan Phone 9876 1652 Mobile: 0412 682 927 E-Mail: tedryan@australiaonline.net.au ted.ryan@optusnet.com.au

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Observer Victorian Sport Melbourne

Melton: 3 for Lang, 2 for Shinn ■ Monday December 12 was the venue for harness racing at tabcorp Park, Melton and both champion reinsman Gavin Lang and Wallan's Chris Shinn took the honours. Gavin Lang was victorious with 4Y0 American Ideal-Jazee Valentine gelding Alpha Charlie in the C0 class TAB Multiplier Pace over 1720 metres, 5Y0 Always A Virgin-Evasive Moves mare Pantzup in the 2240 metre T0 & T1 class Renown Silverware Trotters Mobile and 5Y0 Rocknroll Hanover-Life Inthefastlane gelding Solid As A Rock which landed the 1720 metre Breckon Farms Pace for R5 or better class. Alpha Charlie first up since August starting solo on the second line settled four back in the moving line as Last Walk led from outside the front line. Moving three wide racing for the bell to park in the open for the last lap, Alpha Charlie finished his race off well to prevail by 1.5 metres from Cant Be Told which trailed him home in a mile rate of 1-55.9. Last Walk held down third 16.7 metres away. Pantzup has a bright future and although first up since July, scored narrowly but well. Settling last from gate six, the field headed by polemarker Amour De Frere having her first outing since May was strung out allowing Pantzup to gain a beaut one/one passage on the back of Sherrif Brown which was left exposed. Striding forward in the last lap to give chase to the front runner well before the home turn, the pair turned together and had the race to themselves, with Pantzup having 1.6 metres in her favour on the wire. Fling About was third 35.7 metres back after a cosy trip three back the markers. The mile rate 1-59.9. Solid As A Rock led all of the way from gate two, winning in a breeze by 4.3 metres in advance of Lucky Lombo which raced outside him, with Our Jimmie third 4.7 metres away after trailing the winner. The mile rate 1-54.5. ■ The first of Chris Shinn's winners was 7Y0 Four Starzz Shark-Adelong mare Machli in DNR Logistics Pace for C1 & C2 class over 1720 metres. Trained by mother Ruth, Machli possied four back in the moving line from gate three on the second line as Just Makemine Diamonds led out from gate two. Moving to be three wide trailing Juliustigress in the last lap, Machli although four wide on the home turn, finished full of running to register a 4.1 metre margin over Illawong Gerry who was always handy, with Miss Victoria 3.8 metres away in third place after racing exposed. The mile rate 1-55.8. ■ Very honest 7Y0 Aert Major-A Little More Magic gelding Maken Art Magic brought up the double by taking the Allied Express Pace for C1 class over 2240 metres in 1-58.3. Also trained by Ruth, Maken Art Magic was trapped three wide from gate four, with no option but to keep going and eventually cross Wantalinga Dream which had worked to cross Forever And A Day. Holding a handy margin on turning, Maken Art Major just lasted by a half head to defeat a flying Peter Perfect from a mile back down the centre of the track, with Forever And A Day using the sprint lane for third 3.4 metres back.

First heat win

■ Muscle Hill-Fullonluck colt All The Muscles was victorious in the first heat of the Aldebaran Park Vicbred Home Grown Classic for Three Year Old Colts & Geldings over 1720 metres at Tabcorp Park for Sheron Park breeder/owner Kevin Riseley. Trained at Arcadia by Patrick Ryan, All The Muscles driven by Chris Alford led throughout from gate five, accounting for Flingandwingit (one/one) by 1.9 metres, with Rave On Hall 28.6 metres back in third place after racing exposed. The mile rate 1-58.1.

20th victory

■ Bonny 6Y0 Mach Three-Jasper Jo mare Flojos Gold made a one act affair of the fast class race on the program at Mildura on Tues-

Harness Racing

Panspacificflight and Weka Lass was driven forward from gate six to park outside the leader Ramblenroller before asserting her authority to score by 3.4 metres from Hugh Victor and Mista Lombo in 1-59.5.

Bit disappointing

■ Smart Kiwi bred Bettors Delight-Reklaw 5Y0 gelding Rishi returned to the winners list, when victorious in the Accredited Distributors Bendigo Pace for C6 or better class over 2150 metres. Starting from gate two on the second line, Rishi ended up perfectly poised one/one trailing Itmademyday as the hot favourite Mad Robber Melbourne to the front from gate four. Observer worked Vacating the prime spot racing for the bell, len-baker@ Rishi applied plenty of pressure to the leader bigpond.com prior to the home turn and the pair turned together with Rishi proving too strong over the conwith Len Baker cluding stages, accounting for the in-form Dikerry along the sprint lane by a head which followed day - the Gannon's Sportswear & Trophies Pace the front runner, with Mad Robber slightly disapfor C5 or better class over 2190 metres. pointing after weakening to finish third 2.1 metres Trained locally by Ian Watson, Flojos Gold away. The mile rate 1-55.5. driven by Ellen Tormey led throughout from gate four, winning in a breeze by 18.4 metres from Chasing AWin which trailed, with Misterfreeze (one/one) 3.6 metres away in third place. ■ Carisbrook breeder/part-owner/trainer/driver The mile rate 1-59.7. It was Flojos Gold's Brett (Shippy) Shipway dealt punters a blow 20th victory in 43 outings. when 4Y0 Louey Louey Louey-Ships Choice entire Bebubbalouie snared the T1 or better class Yabby Dam Racing Trotters Handicap over 2150 metres at Bendigo, paying Supertab odds of $39. ■ Musk Vale trainer Glenn Conroy's ever reliSettling on the back of the poleline leader able 6Y0 Skyvalley-Aldebaran Maori mare Fear Not chalked up her 5th success at start number 109 when greeting the judge in the Visit Ballarat Vicbred Trotters Mobile for T1 & T2 class over 2200 metres at Ballarat on Wednesday. ■ Eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a Raced by Glenn and family, Fear Not spent letter to the editor of New York’s Sun, and the most of the race one/one from gate two followquick response was printed as an unsigned ing the well supported Bad Boy Jay Jay (gate editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran four) which shadowed the poleline leader Meet newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since Michaelangelo. become history’s most reprinted newspaper Easing wide on turning, Fear Not finished editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens well to just get there by a head over Bad Boy of languages in books, movies, and other ediJay Jay, with Meet Michaelangelo holding down torials, and on posters and stamps third 4.6 metres back. The mile rate 2-01.6. DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. ■ At a rather wet and wild Echuca on ThursPapa says, ‘If you see it in THE SUN it’s so.’ day, Elmore trainer Keith Cotchin landed a stable Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa treble, each with a different driver. Former Claus? Sydneysider Rossini , a Mach Three-Miss FanVIRGINIA O’HANLON. tastic gelding snared the 1755 metre Ausure In115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET. surance 3Y0 Pace with Greg Sugars in the sulky. Starting inside the second line, Rossini was VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They quickly away from the inside to settle one/one have been affected by the skepticism of a skepafter a couple of hundred metres. Easing three tical age. They do not believe except they see. wide racing for the bell, Rossini sprinted sharply They think that nothing can be which is not to take over, scoring by 4.2 metres from Arakbell comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, and Yoursandmine who was 10.3 metres away Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, in third place. The mile rate 1-59.5. are little. In this great universe of ours man is a Five year old Big Jim-Cross The Line mare mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as comGone Too far driven by Ryan Duffy led throughpared with the boundless world about him, as out from gate three in the C2 & C3 class measured by the intelligence capable of graspCaledonian Hotel Social Club Pace for C2 & C3 ing the whole of truth and knowledge. class over 2160 metres. Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He Given an easy time at the head of affairs, exists as certainly as love and generosity and Gone Too Far jast lasted by a half head from devotion exist, and you know that they abound Zozo Ma Gogo along the sprint lane after trailand give to your life its highest beauty and joy. ing in a rate of 2-00.2. Dunrobbin was third 3.9 Alas! how dreary would be the world if there metres away. were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as Regular reinsman Michael Bellman guided if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be Western Terror-Bebop 4Y0 gelding Brackenreid no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to victory in the C1 class Echuca Moama Print to make tolerable this existence. We should & Design Pace Final over 1755 metres. have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. Going forward three wide in the last lap from The eternal light with which childhood fills the three back in the moving line, Brackenreid outworld would be extinguished. stayed his rivals to record a 2.3 metre margin Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as over Grey Maverick and Jules Peach in 1-58.5. well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming ■ Great Western's Peter Manning recent stable down, what would that prove? Nobody sees arrival Reciprocity made it two from two in Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Victoria when successful in the 1755 metre Santa Claus. The most real things in the world Echuca Trots New Years Night 2019 Pace for are those that neither children nor men can C4 to C6 class. see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the With stable assistant Jason Ainsworth hanlawn? dling the reins, Reciprocity, a 5Y0 daughter of

Used sprint lane

Won by a head

Sulky Snippets This Week

■ Wednesday - Geelong, Thursday Bendigo, Friday - Maryborough/Shepparton, Saturday - Melton, Sunday - Warragul, Monday - Melton.

Horses to follow

■ Zephiane, Image Of Starzzz, Alpha Male, Fire Up Franco, Hezthebigbopper, Hugh Victor, Imprincessgemma.

Girls Go First from barrier two, Bebubbalouie after enjoying the run of the race used the sprint lane to prevail by a head in a rate of 2-03.4. Justtentrumps (four wide home turn from midfield) was third 13.4 metres back.

Happy Christmas

■ To all of the regular readers of this column, best wishes for a safe and happy Christmas and (hopefully) a prosperous 2019. - Len Baker

Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus

Outstayed rivals

Outside leader

● Virginia O’Hanlon

Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world. You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

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Visit Daylesford

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Kit Contents: - Rim with Tyre 135/70R19 Tyre - Genuine Ford Vehicle Jack & Tyre Lever - Felt Mat Purchase your spare wheel today from Mustang Motorsport today, and enjoy that peace of mind that comes with knowing should anything happen, you’ve got a spare! Visit www.mustangmotorsport.com.au or call us on (03) 9753 5799.

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Observer Showbiz

Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Seasons Greetings to all our readers: Arts: Mi:Wi 3027 .................................................................... Page 56 Country Music: Destiny changes ....................................... Page 56 Jim and Aaron: Best movies for 2018 .................................. Page 57 Cheryl Threadgold: Local shows, auditions ........................... Page 57 OVATT”S MEGA CRO PL US THE LLO PLUS CROSSSWORD

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD Jen Der issues

● Katrina Mroz as Jen Der Photo: Mark Gambino ■ Melbourne female drag queen Jen Der is ready to turn life technicolour in her new show, Jen Der Unpacks for Midsumma 2019 at Hares and Hyenas. With a mind as busy as JFK Airport Jen Der is ready to leave Melbourne, her destiny is waiting. Will she leave the dusty plains of Albury Wodonga and land in New York to set up her dream Cabaret Bar with her Cuban hip shaking Prince? Or buy a miniature house on wheels and drive around America? What about Trump though? Maybe she’ll end up in a run down share house in downtown LA and just stare at a wall? Or will she stay in Australia, and settle down in regional NSW? Jen Der is overwhelmed, lost in a crisis of choice and stuck in the departure gate of decision. In order to get out, Jen Der needs to go within, unpack before she packs up - otherwise her emotional baggage is going to cost her a fortune at check in. So she’s cranking up the salt lamps, cutting the energy cords, healing her chakras and syncing up with the moon cycles. Jen Der is ready to raise the vibration and raise the roof with a pop, hip hop and rock soundtrack as she unpacks everything from gender norms, to female drag queen realness, to unrealistic expectations, to country blokes to how terrifying the world is and ultimately - how to truly step into your power, with arms open to the unknown. Venue: Melba Spiegeltent, 35 Johnston St, Collingwood Dates: Wednesday Jan. 30 – Sunday, Feb. 3 at 7pm Cost: $29 - $35 Tickets: midsumma.org.au/ Contact: 9296 6600 / admin@midsumma.org.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Heide Highlights

■ Gorman: 10 Years of Collaboration. March 3 -17. Venue: Heide II ■ John Gollings. March 23-July 21. Venue: Heide II ■ Temptation to Co-exist: Janet Burchell and Jennifer McCamley. April 6-July 14. Venue: Heide II Central Galleries ■ An Idea Needing to be Made: Contemporary Ceramics. July 27-October 20. Venue: Heide II Central Galleries ■ Robin Boyd Design Champion. July 27-October 27. Venue: Heide II ■ Jess Johnson & Simon Ward: Terminus. November 9 -March 1. 2020. Venue: Central Galleries.

Rebel in Melbourne

■ From the independent theatre production house, CDP Theatre Producers comes the sequel to The Gruffalo – The Gruffalo’s Child, based on the picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Catchy songs, dance and puppetry feature in the scary funfilled show enthralling both children and adults. The story narrated in parts by Madison Hegarty, tells the adventures of the Gruffalo’s child (played by the effervescent Jade Paskins) when she ignores her father’s (played by the talented Skyler Ellis) warning that no gruffalo should ever set foot in the deep dark woods because of the Big Bad Mouse. Along the way she meets the Snake, the Owl and the Fox (all played by Skyler Ellis) and the Big Bad Mouse (played enthusiastically by Madison Hegarty). This is a well directed, slick production with a versatile set, which adds to the magic of the show. The cast all give highenergy exacting performances and engage well with the audience throughout. Skyler Ellis’s versatility as a performer is to be commended as he changes not only costumes in super-quick time but persona and accents also. This is a highly entertaining show for children leading up to Christmas, with lots of audience participation at the Athenaeum Theatre, Collins St, Melbourne. The production continues in Melbourne until December 22. Shows run for 55 minutes with no interval. Bookings can be made at athenaeumtheatre.com.au or on 9650 1500. - Review by Lyn Hurst

Local Theatre Shows ■ PLOS Musical Productions: Shrek the Musical December 31 - January 9 at Frankston Arts Centre. December 31 at 5pm; January2, 4, 6, 8 at 7.30pm; January3, 5, 6, 9 at 1.30pm. Bookings: https://artscentre.frankston.vic.gov.au/Whats_On__Buy_Tickets/Shrek_The_Musical ■ Encore Theatre: Fantastic Mr Fox (by Roald Dahl) January 10 - 19 at The Clayton Community Centre, Cooke St., Clayton. Director: David Collins. Bookings: 1300 739 099. ■ Peridot Theatre: Brilliant Lies (by David Williamson) February 1 - 18 at the Unicorn Theatre, Lechte Rd., Mt Waverley. Director: Damian Jones. Bookings: 0429 115 334. ■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: Angels in America Part One (by Tony Kushner) February 1 - 16 at 15 Coronation St., West Geelong. Director: David Postill and Scott Bradley. Bookings: 5225 1200 ■ Malvern Theatre Company: Mr Bennet's Bride (by Emma Wood) February 15 - March 2 at 29 Burke Rd., Malvern East. Director: Susan Rundle. Bookings: 1300 131 552. ■ Brighton Theatre Company: After Miss Julie (by Patrick Marber) February 15 - March 2 at Brighton Arts and Cultural Centre, Brighton. Director: Loretta Bishop. Bookings: 1300 752 126. ■ The Basin Theatre Company: Murder by Natural Causes (adapted by Tim Kelly from the play by Richard Levinson and William Link) February 15 - March 9 at The Basin Theatre, Cnr Doongalla and Simpsons Rds., The Basin. Director: Bob Bramble. Bookings: 1300 784 668

Auditions ■ Essendon Theatre Company: Suite Surrender (by Michael McKeever) January 15, 17 at 7.30pm at Bradshaw St. Community Hall, Bradshaw St., Essendon West. Director: George Benca. Audition enquiries: georgebenca@gmail.com

● Rebel. Photo: Brig Bee ■ A live concert and rock and roll circus tribute to the original rock rebel, David Bowie, will be presented onstage at the Midsumma Festival, January 30– February 3 at Melba Spiegeltent. Marking three years in January since the death of the Thin White Duke, the premiere of Rebel in Melbourne will take audiences on a ride of glittering glam rock, phenomenal acrobatics, breathtaking aerials, and heart-stopping sideshow. An onstage band combined with circus and comedy brings to life an incredible body of Bowie’s work that spanned over five decades, and an aesthetic that broke new ground and inspired legions of generations and fans all over the globe. “My performances have got to be theatrical experiences for me as well as for the audience. “I don’t want to climb out of my fantasies in order to go on stage – I want to take them on stage with me,” Bowie legendarily said. Hailed as a master of reinvention, visual presentation and stunning stagecraft, Bowie’s ethos served as inspiration to create Rebel which is choreographed, directed and produced by Melbourne’s Highwire Entertainment. Venue: Melba Spiegeltent, 35 Johnston St., Collingwood Dates: January 30 – February 3 at 7pm Cost: $29 -$35 Tickets: midsumma.org.au/ - Cheryl; Threadgold

Mornington Peninsula

■ The Power of Art or all Ages. Dr Sally Osbourne. We are living longer but at what economic and social cost? Can we afford t? How do we do it well? What can stand in the way of successful ageing? Some myths surround getting older will be explored, Dr Sally Osbourne's discussion will address the paradox of ageing and how we might counter the prevalent negative attitudes in our society today. Sally's research focus is on dementia and its myth as a normal part of ageing is explored. Monday February 11. 10.30 am for morning tea. 11am - 12pm. for talk. No bookings required. Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. Cnr Reserve & Dunns Rd, Mornington.

Page 56 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018

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Observer Showbiz

Country Music, Radio, Theatre, Almanac Country Crossroads

By Rob Foenander info@countrycrossroads.com.au

Destiny changes

■ Gippsland band Destiny has launched its new album, Changes. It's been a big year for the group headed up by husband and wife team Thomas and Tessa Libreri with many awards and accolades from around the world coming their way. They'll be playing out the year with a show at the Morwell Club on Monday, December 31.o

Band O’ Gold

■ Band O' Gold will rock the Noble Park RSL on New Years Eve with their standard fare of country, easy listening and popular dance tunes. Guests can expect a great night of fun and a friendly atmosphere from 8.45pm till 12.45am. Bookings at the club.

Lake Charlegrark

■ The 28th Annual Lake Charlegrark Country Music Marathon is set for February 16-17 with an A-list of performers. Lee Kernaghan, Adam Harvey and the Wolfe Bros head up the artist list along with a number other well known acts also scheduled to take the stage. More info https://www.lccmm.com.au/ - Rob Foenander

Music Play Festival Mi:Wi 3027 ■ Melbourne Recital Centre announces its 2019 program for Music Play Family Festival, covering four days of concerts, workshops and fun free activities just for families, including standout performances by James Morrison, Melbourne Youth Orchestra and Romanian pianist Alexandra Dariescu. Each year the Festival is eagerly awaited by audiences young and old. The Centre is renowned for presenting the world’s finest musicians and bands on its stages, and Music Play unleashes the musician, composer, rock star or rap artist in all of us. The year 2019 is Melbourne Recital Centre’s 10th Anniversary, which makes the Festival an occasion to celebrate all families and their stories of enjoying great music at the Centre. For many children, Music Play will be their first time attending a live performance or playing an instrument. Director of Programming Marshall McGuire says: “In our 10th Anniversary year, Music Play is brighter and bigger than ever before. “You can see and hear The Nutcracker in a mesmerising new production with live music and dance interacting with projected images. “The Bush Concert is a uniquely Australian way to meet the orchestra, and James Morrison, Australia’s great man of jazz, always amazes with his astonishing musicianship.” Along with big concerts in Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, there is an array of mini concerts for the little ones held daily in Primrose Potter Salon. The Lullaby Project has parents and kids under two years relaxing to soothing lullabies. Children discover a perfect introduction to pop and rock music with The Kiddyrock Band, and Inventi Ensemble performs Peter & the Wolf, with a new narration. As always there is plenty of learning going on, from singing, dancing and music-making in Song Play to learning a new instrument in Woody Clark’s The Ukulele Kids Show – ukuleles provided. Other highlights are the fabulous workshops. Learning & Access Coordinator Belinda Ashe says: “We are excited to be presenting a range of fun interactive workshops for families. Children of all ages will have the chance to learn how to beatbox, write a song, play percussion or even sign a pop song in Auslan – the language of the Australian deaf community.” All this plus free foyer activities including Open Stage, a photo booth and face painting, hosted by Madame Lark. “There’s an open stage where kids can perform for us all, and Madame Lark – slightly spooky, slightly kooky, but always willing to share a birdsong with you – will roam throughout the venue for the whole festival.

r Obser vbeiz On This Day Show

Wednesday December 19

■ English actor Sir Ralph Richardson was born in Cheltenham, England, in 1902. He died aged 80 in 1983. French singer Edith Piaf was born in Paris, France, in 1915. She died aged 47 in 1963. American actress Jennifer Beals is 55 (1963). Cricketer Ricky Ponting is 44.

“Make sure you meet her. There’s music of all sorts, for audiences of all ages. What better way to start our 10th Anniversary than with a big party where music for kids and families is the focus,” says Marshall McGuire. Music Play Family Festival 2019 Wednesday January 16 – Saturday January 19, daily from 9am Melbourne Recital Centre Tickets from $10 - Di Rolle

Clocktower Theatre ■ The Clocktower Theatre season returns in 2019 with a line-up of drama, music and even something a little different that everyone can enjoy. Theatre buffs are in for a treat when the when the Clocktower stages the highly anticipated Australian musical-drama The Sapphires, inspired by the true story of four young Aboriginal women and Sunset Strip, an Australian dramatic comedy about love, family dysfunction and making the best of lousy situations by multiaward winning playwright, Suzie Miller. Music lovers will be singing along to The Voice’s Naomi Price when she performs some of the Beatles’ most monumental hits in Lady Beatle and Sun Rising who will bring a vibrant show about the birth of rock and roll. Alinta Chidzey returns to the Clocktower, bringing along with her Hook Turn Orchestra to perform iconic songs from classic movies in Jazz and the Silver Screen and the ever-impressive and captivating sounds of the Soweto Gospel Choir and Melbourne Chamber Orchestra is sure to light up the theatre. For those craving something a little different in the New Year, By a Thread will feature a performance of stunning contemporary circus works by seven acrobats and 30 metres of rope. The Clocktower Theatre season is never complete without a line-up for children and 2019 is no different with the performances of The Gruffalo and Possum Magic. Subscriber packages and tickets on sale now. Venue: Clocktower Centre, 750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds. Phone: 9243 9191 Website: www.clocktowercentre.com.au - Cheryl Threadgold

Seasons Greetings

■ Wishing readers a joyous Christmas and a safe, healthy, happy and successful 2019. Thanks to the Melbourne Observer review team for their great work in covering shows around Melbourne. These writers work in an honorary capacity and any expenses such as travelling, parking or fines inadvertently acquired, are paid at their own expense. Sincere thanks also to readers who support their local theatre company’s shows. Finally, a huge thank you to Editor Ash Long for his wonderful support of Melbourne theatre, whether professional, independent or amateur. - Cheryl Threadgold Melbourne

Observer

Thursday Friday December 20 December 21

■ Former Australian Prime Minister Sir Robert Menzies was born in Jeparit in 1894. He died aged 83 in 1978. Actor and TV-radio presenter Noel Ferrier was born in Melbourne in 1930. He died aged 66 in 1997. TV presenter Ray Martin is 74 (1944).

Melbourne Arts

■ Many inspiring works start as play readings or as work in progress just as Mi:Wi 3027 has for two readings recently at La Mama Courthouse. Always supporting new and original works La Mama has given playwright Glenn Shae the opportunity of bringing to the fore a remarkable cross-cultural wartime story. While only in its formative stage it has all the elements of a powerful and enlightening combination of two cultures meeting during WWI, Leonard Adam, a German-Jewish ethnologist and a Ngarrindjeri man, Roland Carter (Service No 3027) who was the first indigenous man to join the Australian Imperial Forces but was captured and interred in a German prisoner-of-war camp. Leonhard Adam was employed by the German Government of the day to collect information on the customs and culture of ethnic prisoners and with their similar ages they formed a close friendship that continued after the war. Adam met Carter many times in the camp as he learnt much of the customs, the languages, the traditions and of daily life of the Aborigines back in Australia. However by WWII they lost contact and Adam was forced to flee his homeland Germany and found his way to Australia where after a brief internment went on to become a distinguished academic at the University of Melbourne in the late 1940s into 1950s. Through a set of circumstances they were reconnected in 1947 and continued to correspond by mail. Geoff Shae has carefully and respectfully put a work together that is inspiring and thought provoking and one that has transcended the extremes of politics and war. His research and time spent with the Ngarrindjeri people and in particular the descendants of Roland Carter, honours indigenous soldiers that have served Australia in war. The full production should be one to seek in future. - Review by Graeme McCoubrie

■ American actress Jane Fonda is 82. US rock guitarist Frank Zappa was born in 1940. He died aged 52 in 1993. US actor Ray Romano is 61 (1957). Canadian actor Kiefer Sutherland is 52. He stars in 24. US talk show host Phil Donahue is 83.

Sunday Monday Tuesday Saturday December 22 December 23 December 24 December 25 ■ US actress Barbara Billingsley (June Cleaver) was born in 1915. She died aged 94 in 2010. Radio and TV host Donnie Sutherland was born in Sydney in 1945 (73). Actor Simon Westaway is 60(1958). Model Jennifer Hawkins is 34.

■ Australian singer Grace Knight was born in Scotland in 1955 (63). TV presenter Trisha Goddard was born in London in 1958 (60). Film executive J Arthur Rank was born in England in 1888. He died aged 83 in 1972. Voice man Harry Shearer is 75.

■ Christmas Eve. US actress Ava Gardner was born as Lucy Johnson in 1922. She died aged 67 in 1990. Latin American singer Ricky Martin is 47. Australian actor Danny Raco was born in Rome in 1979 (39). Cricketer Sir Colin Cowdrey was born in India in 1932. Died in 2000.

■ Christmas Day. Actor Humphrey Bogart was born in 1899. He died in 1957 (57). Cab Calloway, US band leader, was born in 1907. He died aged 86 in 1994. Singer Annie Lennox is 64. Actress Sissy Spacek is 69 (1949).

Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of Jocks Journal for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates. Jocks Journal is Australia’s longest running radio industry publication. ■ Melbourne Find out more at www.jocksjournal.com

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 57

Observer Showbiz

Movies, DVDs with Jim Sherlock, Aaron Rourke What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs FILM: CRAZY RICH ASIANS: Genre: Comedy/Romance. Cast: Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh, Lisa Lu. Year: 2018. Rating: PG. Length: 120 Minutes. Stars: ***½ Review: Delightfully engaging and entertaining romantic-comedy-drama of a lower class American-born Chinese economics professor who travels with her boyfriend to his hometown of Singapore for his best friend's wedding, and before long, his secret is out, that he is from a family that is impossibly wealthy, and he's perhaps the most eligible bachelor in Asia, and soon ripples appear with-in the family. A blend of "Arthur," "Cinderella" and even "Crocodile Dundee," among others, the "beautiful people" here are so rich they make James Packer and "The Great Gatsby" seem like paupers by comparison, as they parade and flaunt their wealth with all the happiness, as well as problems, it can bring, a fantasy lifestyle that all of can only imagine in our wildest dreams. Filled with wonderfully quirky characters, most of whom speak with near perfect American accents, the cast are superb, most notably Constance Wu as the girlfriend (Rachel) and the legendary Michelle Yeoh as the domineering Mother, but it must also be noted that other standouts here are in the supporting cast, especially the infectious Awkwafina as the girlfriends delightfully wacky Singaporean best friend, Goh Peik Lin. Based on the best-selling novel by Kevin Kwan with an intelligently well written screenplay by Adele Lim and Peter Chiarelli, directed with great care and attention to detail by Jon M. Chu, and excelled by exemplary production design and cinematography, what lies beneath in the more finely woven threads of "Crazy Rich Asians" is a rich and darkly textured pattern of devotion, betrayal, arrogance, cynicism, bias and devilish satire. With its sense of déjà,vu, something old and something borrowed it may be, but overall, this is a well executed, emotionally satisfying, multi-layered, culturally grounded, crowd pleasing journey of the exploration of family, borders, culture and head-spinning, a broad, fun-filled, laugh-out-loud rom-com that delivers an abundance of charm overflowing with likeable characters, all of whom we have not seen the last of. FILM: LADIES IN BL ACK: Genre: Comedy/Drama. Cast: Rachael Taylor, Julia Ormond, Angourie Rice, Suzie P orter, Nicholas Hammond, Ryan Coor, Noni Hazlehurst, Shane Jacobson. Year: 2018. Rating: PG. Length: 109 Minutes. Stars: **** Review: Set in Sydney in the summer of 1959, when the impact of European migration and the rise of women's liberation is soon to rise in Australia, a young sixteen year old Lisa takes a job at the prestigious Goode's department store, and there she meets "The Ladies in Black,' who will help shape her life, and others, forever. Adapted from the best-selling novel of the same name by Madeleine St. John, Oscar nominated director Bruce Beresford has created a simple, lyrically immersive and heart-warming character driven coming-of-age story driven by engaging performances, everything moving supremely throughout with a polish, assurance and a hugely enjoyable genuineness and ingenuity. Co-writer (with Sue Milliken) and Director Beresford drives the source material with a firm grip, great respect, sublime intelligence and delicate tenderness, and in doing so, manages to capture the very essence and heart-beat of the soul a nation and country on the brink of a cultural awakening, an exciting change, a masterful reflection of a period, people and innocence which we will never see or experience again. Beautifully photographed by Peter James, striking period costume and production design, and capped off with a period soundtrack of songs of the era and music score by Tim Finn and Kate Miller-Heidke, Angourie Rice gives a superb performance as the young teen on the verge of change, as do all the cast including Rachael Taylor, Julia Ormond, Nicholas Hammond, Noni Hazlehurst, Suzie Porter and Shane Jacobson. "Ladies in Black" is a welcome breath of fresh air, a tale that effortlessly blends the sweetness, joy, drama and poignancy of both a nation and people on the edge of forging a new frontier, a thoroughly invigorating, funny, flawless and unique impression filled with wit, charm and innocence, a valentine of more than satisfying fashion for those prepared to experience its most honourable, enchanting, sweeping and unforgettable intentions .... an Unmissable Gem! FILM: A SIMPLE FA VOUR: Genre: Crime/Drama/Mystery. Cast: Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Henry Golding, Ian Ho. Year: 2018. Rating: MA15+ Length: 117 Minutes. Stars: ***½ Review: A mommy vlogger seeks to uncover the truth behind her best friend's sudden disappearance from their small town. and is joined by the missing woman's husband, and as the search, the mystery deepens. From the opening animated titles credit sequence to the closing animated title credit sequence, this, devilishly beguiling and darkly comic crime-mystery-drama from "Bridesmaids" (2011), "The Heat" (2013) and "Spy" director Paul Feig is a richly textured tapestry delicately woven together from a bevy of U.S. classics as well as heavy European influences of 1950s and 1960s cinema, all capped off by a deliciously rich soundtrack that keeps the comic elements in tune and the heartbeat of the unfolding mystery pounding. Based on the novel by Darcy Bell, from a screenplay by Jessica Sharzer, Paul Feig centres more on a "homage" to the whole cinematic universe of the darkly-comicmystery-thriller-genre, which Alfred Hitchcock excelled in, and with obvious inspirations from such legendary filmmakers as Claude Chabrol, Jean-Luc Godard, JeanPierre Melville, Roman Polanski, Stanley Donan, and most significantly, HenriGeorges Clouzot. There's nothing new here, not an original bone in its body, but it all comes together nicely thanks to the direction of Paul Fieg, a sparkling performances from Anna Kendrick as the small town Mother and vlogger, Stephanie, and most notably, a startling multi-layered performance by the beautiful and talented Blake Lively as the mysterious Emily, as well as "Crazy Rich Asians" star Henry Golding as the tormented husband and father. Along with vivacious cinematography by John Schwartzman and meticulous pacing, this all adds up to a stylish, colourful, witty, brisk, dark, sexy, quirky and delightfully wicked mystery-thriller, a recipe of delicacies that the great Hitchcock continued to serve up time and time again, and even though it breathes familiarity, its tangled web of twists and turns will hold you in its grip. - James Sherlock

Rourke’s Reviews ■ Yes, it's that time again, where we all look at what we've watched during the year, embracing those which we felt hit a bullseye, while trying to forget the ones that missed the target by a mile. Here are the top ten films which, for me, did everything right, followed by a list of movies which deserve to be sought out and seen. I would like to thank my tireless editor Ash Long, my fellow film-nerd colleague James Sherlock, all the other contributors, and to you the readers, who continue to support The Melbourne Observer. May you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and here's to a cinematically triumphant 2019. 1) Shoplifters. Hirokazu Kore'eda delivers yet another realistic, affecting drama, scrutinising what family truly means. Full of terrific characters and superb performances, and deservedly won the top prize at Cannes this year. 2) Phantom Thread. Paul Thomas Anderson's exquisite love letter to cinema, meticulously crafted and totally absorbing, with flawless acting which helps the film soar even higher. Was robbed at this year's Oscars. 3) Side Job. Low-key but heartbreaking look at various townsfolk who have been unable to get over the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan on March 11. First-rate performances. 4) Leave No Trace. Director Debra Granik's first film since Winter's Bone in 2010 is an outstanding look at a father and daughter living off the grid, and the bureaucracy that threatens to destroy their way of life. Measured and heartfelt, with award-calibre acting. 5) Call Me By Your Name. This coming-of-age drama, influenced by the work of the late Bernardo Bertolucci, deserved all the praise heaped upon it, and looks at its subject matter in a sensitive, non-exploitative manner. Oscar winner for best adapted screenplay earlier this year. 6) Loveless. Searing Russian drama about a young child who simply disappears during his parents' vicious divorce, and the slow, soul-draining search that follows. From the director of Leviathan, and should have won the Oscar for Best Foreign Film. 7) Burning. Unusual, unsettling examination of image, identity, and human connection, and how they are all distorted and complicated in the modern age. Another intelligent, fascinating and highly relevant film from Lee Chang-dong. 8) Wilderness (Part One and Two) Hugely ambitious drama (304 minutes, split into two parts), centring around two youths who take up boxing for different reasons, and become close friends in the process. Numerous characters, plot threads, and themes fill this challenging film(s). 9) Revenge. Brutal thriller effectively subverts the rape/revenge formula, symbolically working in numerous feminist themes and imagery. Confidently and stylishly directed by Coralie Fargeat, and blessed with

To our wonderful Editor-in-Chief Ash Long and to all our most cherished readers: whatever to you is truly beautiful, whatever to you truly meaningful and whatever gives you true happiness, may all this and good health be yours this festive season, Through 2019 and beyond. Thank you for your marvellous support! With sincere wishes, always, James Sherlock.

Top 10 Lists

● The tender and humane drama Shoplifters, winner of this year's Palme d'Or, was my favourite film for 2018. There were a number of great movies this year though. a committed central performance. 10) Dear Etranger. Director Yukiko Mishima beautifully looks at a family trying to come together as one, with past and present problems causing a ripple effect between them. Naturalistic and believable throughout, enhanced by a gallery of fine performances. Honourable Mentions. You Were Never Really Here; Eighth Grade; Custody; Climax; Lucky; The Guilty; The Whiskey Robber; One Cut Of The Dead; The Old Man & The Gun; The Breadwinner; BPM; Blackkklansman; City Of Ghosts; Widows; The Shape Of Water; A Ghost Story; Dragged Across Concrete; Molly's Game; The Spy Gone North; Lost In London; On Body And Soul; The Ravenous; Annihilation; The Survival Family; Psychokinesis; Pyewacket; Foreboding; The Table; Voyage Of Time : Life's Journey; Somewhere Beyond The Mist; My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday; My Friend Dahmer; 1987 : When The Day Comes; Gonjiam : Haunted Asylum; Lean On Pete; In The Fade; What A Man Wants; Disobedience; Thoroughbreds; Incredibles 2; Inuyashiki; Believer; The Last Recipe; Tremble All You Want; The Nile Hilton Incident; Sekigahara; Ghost Stories; Animal World; The Last Shot In The Bar; Angels Wear White; Wrath Of Silence; Under The Tree; See You Up There; Oh Lucy!; Mission Impossible : Fallout; Dark River; First Reformed; Blindspotting; Mirai; Heavy Trip; Won't You Be My Neighbour?; Dark Figure Of Crime; The 8 Year Engagement; Mandy; The Death Of Stalin; River's Edge; Zama; A Prayer Before Dawn; Hold The Dark; Black Panther; Private Life; Shadow; Beautiful Boy; Suspiria; The Night Comes For Us; The Blood Of Wolves; The Scythian Lamb; My Friend 'A'; Penguin Highway; They Shall Not Grow Old; Sorry To Bother You; The Witch Part 1 : The Subversion; Wonderstruck; The Square; The Outlaws; Forgotten; Professor Marston And The Wonder Women; Journeyman.

DECEMBER 16-22 THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. THE GRINCH. 2. BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY. 3. CREED II. 4. MORTAL ENGINES. 5. FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE CRIMES OF GRINDELWALD. 6. SECOND ACT. 7. A STAR IS BORN. 8. OVERLORD. 9. THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS. 10. WIDOWS. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: DECEMBER 13: BLACK '47, ONCE UPON A DEADPOOL, PEPPERMINT, SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE. DECEMBER 20: BUMBLEBEE, COLETTE. THE DVD AND BLU-RAY TOP RENTALS & SALES: 1. CRAZY RICH ASIANS [Comedy/ Romance/Constance Wu, Michelle Yeoh, Henry Golding]. 2. A SIMPLE FAVOUR [Crime/Drama/ Comedy/Thriller/Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick]. 3. CHRISTOPHER ROBIN [Family/ Animation/Adventure/Comedy/Ewan McGregor]. 4. THE PREDATOR [Action/Sci-Fi/jacob Tremblay, Boyd Holbrook]. 5. THE WIFE [Drama/Glenn Close, Elizabeth McGovern, Jonathan Pryce, Max Irons]. 6. BLACKkKLANSMAN [Biography/Crime/ Drama/John Washington, Adam Driver]. 7. BOOK CLUB [Comedy/Romance/Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen]. 8. YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE [Thriller/Joaquin Phoenix]. 9. INCREDIBLES 2 [Animated/Action/ Adventure/Holly Hunter, Craig T. Nelson]. Also: MANDY, ANT-MAN AND THE WASP, MILE 22, THE MEG, DARKEST MINDS, THE FLIP SIDE, LUIS AND THE ALIENS, THE EQUALIZER 2, SICARIO: DAY OF THE SOLDADO, MARY SHELLEY. NEW HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK: JOHNNY ENGLISH STRIKES AGAIN [Spy/ Adventure/Comedy/Rowan Atkinson]. LADIES IN BLACK [Comedy/Romance/ Drama/Angourie Rice, Ryan Corr, Rachael Taylor]. THE NUN [Horror/Mystery/Thriller/Taissa Farmiga, Demian Bichir, Bonnie Aarons]. SMALLFOOT [Animated/Adventure/ Comedy/Channing Tatum, Zendaya, James Corden]. SEARCHING [Drama/Mystery/Thriller/ Debra Messing, John Cho, Sara Sohn]. DEAR DICTATOR [Comedy/Michael Caine, Seth Green, Katie Holmes]. DVD AND/OR BLU-RAY NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSIC MOVIES HIGHLIGHTS: IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE [1946/Drama/ Family/Fantasy/James Stewart, Donna Reed]. NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC HIGHLIGHTS: EMERALD CITY: Season 1. THE GOOD PLACE: Season 2. AMERICAN VANDAL: Season 1. ADVENTURE TIME: Season 9.

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Page 58 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 Melbourne

Observer Lovatts Crossword No 38

Across

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Down

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1. Supporting structure 6. Discreetly 11. Discontent 15. Enlisting (7,2) 20. Verve 21. Circle (planet) 22. Aria-nominated singer, ... Murray 23. Soiled 25. Reflector 26. Nastier 27. Of kidneys 29. Debar (4,3) 32. Close 34. Go berserk, run ... 36. Self-centredness 39. Acute remorse 41. Tree, copper ... 43. Merits 46. Fatigued 48. Blunder 49. Swerve 51. Stone god 52. Revenge 55. June 6, 1944 (1-3) 56. Louts 59. Confuse 61. Whisky & ... 62. Tennis ace, Steffi ... 63. Condition 64. Verb modifiers 67. Many-sided figure 68. Pacify 70. Earth's environment, Mother ... 71. Stern 72. Cricket side 73. Anxious (2,4) 74. Polite form of address 75. Italian rice dish 77. Lead-in 78. Radiate 79. Measly 82. German war vessels (1-5) 86. Madden 87. Russian leader 89. Alpine flower 92. Truck's unloaded weight 94. Country, Sri ... 96. Catch sight of 98. Negative votes 100. Cure (fish) 101. Feel the loss of 103. Old Testament son of Isaac 105. French cap 106. Murder (2,2) 108. In charge, at the ... 111. Domestic servant 112. Bread grillers 114. Light classical musical 116. Early guitar 119. Authentic 120. Hasten 121. Typist's ailment (1,1,1) 123. Arguable 124. Engrave 125. Wipe out 126. Revenge 127. Constantly busy (2,3,2) 130. City's chief mail centre (1,1,1) 131. Thin-petalled flowers 135. Tartan skirts 138. Leonardo da Vinci's ... Lisa 139. Genuine thing, the ... McCoy 141. Barbie toys 144. Chew like rat 146. Sergeant or corporal (1,1,1) 147. At that time 148. Hawaiian garland 149. Female horse 150. Nautical yes 151. Cut (timber) 152. Amounted to (4,2) 153. Wine, ... spumante 155. Happily ... after 157. Garden tool 158. Volleyball court dividers 160. Requirements 161. Elevate 162. Progress chart 163. Mirth 165. Light purple 166. Uncle Sam (1,1,1) 167. Anger 168. Official decree 169. Europe/US defence pact

172. Board 175. Jottings 176. Per, for ... 179. Swelled 180. Lessen 182. Tennis great, Arthur ... 184. Prompting (actor) 185. Uprising 186. Achieve 188. Drag with effort 189. Drilling platform 190. Soviet Union (1,1,1,1) 191. Utilise 193. Perfumed powder 194. Community spirit 196. Father 197. Covers 198. Overfills 200. Furtiveness 205. Definite article 207. Climbs 210. Intoxicate 211. Chatty 212. Suffer pain 213. Saint's ring 214. Mayday signal (1,1,1) 216. Zodiac crustacean 218. Wickedness 219. Eastern European 220. Dining table protector (5,3) 224. Dreamer 227. Pint-size 229. Jeans maker, ... Strauss 230. Black soft drink 231. Bounders 232. Front of leg 233. Concept 235. Durable fabric 237. Performs 239. Hitler's ... Kampf 241. The Devil 244. Dancer, ... Pavlova 246. Coiffure 249. Eye lustfully 252. Gives birth to pups 254. Make untidy (4,2) 256. Charmingly unusual 258. Pill 259. Hostile frown 260. Primped 263. Cowardly informer 264. Minor details 265. Interfere 267. Sand granules 270. Threat 271. Imperial ruler 272. Marine mollusc 273. Ancient Arabic tribesman 274. Partners 277. Yuletide 279. Sudden invasion 281. Fires (from job) 284. Famed lioness 286. High temperature 288. Died before 292. Additional 294. Encounter 295. Half-diameters 298. Cook in oven 300. Come up 301. Screened (film) again 303. Marten fur 306. Racing car's protective frame 308. Single thing 309. Embraces 311. Paltry sum of money 314. Internet message 315. Cease operating (3,3) 316. Gradually implant (ideas) 317. Dinners or lunches 318. Meadows (poetic) 319. Supplementary 320. Fiddling emperor 321. Tough circumstances 322. Nipped with beak 323. Sat lazily 324. Freedom fighter

1. Load completely 2. Actor, ... Baldwin 3. Encourage (3,2) 4. Skips 5. Lock openers 6. Movie star, ... L Jackson 7. Join 8. Set fire to 9. Big Apple resident, New ... 10. Engross 11. Maximum 12. Estate agent 13. Lance 14. Expressed as 15. Yank 16. Personal 17. Eskimo shelter 18. Mongolian desert 19. Rhyme 24. Picnic blankets 28. Taj Mahal city 30. Had to repay 31. Philosopher, ... Marx 33. Atomic devices (1-5) 35. Most likely to win (4-2) 37. Brisk pace 38. Filter 40. Natives of Lhasa 42. Hag 44. Church corridors 45. Gold ore lump 47. Foolish 48. Cosmetic pencil 49. Most conceited 50. Opinion column 53. Narrowed 54. Volcanic (rock) 57. African anteaters 58. Dissolved (ties) 60. Tag for future use 63. Similar-meaning word 65. ... Sea Scrolls 66. Golfer, ... Ballesteros 68. Edible flesh 69. Front 76. Forth 79. Woman's title 80. Yawning gulf 81. Satirical play 83. Pop song's flip (1-4) 84. Sharpshooter, ... Oakley 85. Pig's home 88. Of beauty 90. Wanes 91. Interested in 93. Sheepishly 95. Amongst 97. Medieval farm labourer 99. Actor, ... Banderas 100. Indecent material 102. US Rockies state 104. Loft 107. Request from menu 109. Composer, Andrew ... Webber 110. Broad smile 111. Engage (with) 113. Thinks logically 115. Author's alias (3,4) 117. Snake-like fish 118. Point of perfection 121. Splendid clothes 122. Play piano, tinkle the ... 127. Liver or spleen 128. Stretch (of land) 129. Family-tree specialist 132. Varieties 133. Altogether (2,3) 134. Burn (hair) 135. Enlightenment 136. Gandhi's garment 137. ... & weaknesses 138. Fulfil expectations (7,2) 140. Bulkiness 141. Crystal brandy bottles 142. Verbally attacks (6,3) 143. Items of stage scenery (3,6)

145. Rinse (4,3) 151. Section 154. Snares 156. Yashmaks 159. Historical period 164. And so on 169. Standards 170. Steak cut (1-4) 173. Makes fizzy 174. Young eagles 177. Anew 178. Pawns 181. US cotton state 183. Crowded together 187. From Addis Ababa 192. Picking 195. Be melodramatic 199. Idiotic 201. Mite 202. Primates 203. Pull strenuously 204. Brutal 206. Prince Andrew's ex 207. Diminish 208. Covet 209. Quacking bird 213. ... & hearty 215. Supervise 217. Bigotry 221. Fees 222. Ruined Inca city, ... Picchu 223. Siamese 224. Child's guessing game (1,3) 225. East England county 226. Restrict 228. Vagrants 234. Frivolous time-wasting 236. Caravan nomads 238. Wheel-shaft projection 240. Olympic Games body (1,1,1) 242. Rouses 243. Be unfaithful to (3-4) 245. India's capital (3,5) 247. Satisfy 248. Accounts books 250. Connections 251. Non-believer 253. Swindle 255. Jug 257. Charged atoms 258. Docile 261. Rubber 262. Gallows loops 265. Composer, Wolfgang Amadeus .. 266. Gets rid of 268. Stage whisper 269. Malay garment 275. Singing pitch 276. Tea, ... Grey 278. Paintings & drawings 280. Spray can 282. Prayer ending 283. Conserved 285. Cricketer, ... Gilchrist 287. Shoe reinforcement 289. Moved swiftly 290. Musky cats 291. TV reception pole 292. Manhandled 293. Explorer, ... Tasman 296. Aids in crime 297. Baghdad native 299. Tickle 302. White wine, ... Riesling 304. Quickly 305. High-quality printer type 306. Hurry 307. Suggestive look 308. Troubles 310. Urban haze 312. Russia's ... Mountains 313. Two-seater lounge

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Observer Victorian Sport Melbourne

Quarantine stand-off over ■ News that the quarantine stand-off between Australia and Hong Kong may be coming to an end is certainly a great relief for owners and trainers in Australia. It's understood that protocols allowing the movement of horses between Australia and Hong Kong, without the need to spend 180 hours in a third country, will be introduced in the near future. This is certainly music to the ears of out leading trainers with good gallopers, who could hold their own overseas. If this is correct, the Audemars Piquet meeting in April next year could trigger the flow of Australian horses into Sha Tin. Recently leading Australian trainer, Chris Waller, had run his charge, Comin' Through, who was an entrant at the international meeting. Yet there were 23 others stars from Ireland, England, France, Japan and . Comin' Through is being prepared for Dubai's World Cup Carnival in March next year, before returning to Sydney. The stand-off regarding quarantine problems came to fruition in October 2017, when the Australian Government, fearing the spread of disease-banned the direct importation of horses from Hong Kong. This was after the opening of the Hong Kong Jockey Club's training facility in Conghua, in mainland China. Australian horses could return home after three weeks by stopping in a third country if agreement is reached between the relevant parties. Certainly great news for Australian racing.

Magic Millions

■ The Magic Millions Group is eagerly looking forward to their first Perth Yearling Sale to be conducted on the Swan Valley next year. An outstanding line-up of prospective racetrack stars will converge on the Swan Valley early in the New Year. The future of Western Australian Bloodstock Auctions will be unveiled with the 2019 Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sales. A new sales ground in Middle Swan, will become the home of Magic Millions in Western Australia, and the inaugural list to be sold there is now online. To be held on Monday February 18 and Tuesday February 19, the sale has brought together a quality catalogue of 310 lots. With graduates including Group One winners, Black Heart Bart, Boom Time, Silent Sedition, Great Shot and Scenic Blast. The list includes Moment of Change, Magnifisio, Early Regiment and Scenic Shot. The Perth Yearling Sale is regarded as one of the best producing auctions in Australasia. Among the pedigree highlights are half, three-quarter, or full relations to Group winners. They include Elite Belle, the great Playing God, Eagle Way, Motion Pictures, Agent Pippa, and Dainty Tess. The list also includes Lucy Mae, Salsonic, Samovare, Hobart Jones, Art Series, the Victorian Oaks placegetter, Miss Admiration, Variation, Chantski, and the smart Missy Longstocking. The variety of stock on offer is another feature with no fewer than 76 individual sires, represented with strong interest to surround the stock by eight Freshman sires, including highly credentialed local, I'm All Talk, who is also the most represented sire with 25 lots. In a great boost for local buyers, more than 90 per cent of yearlings catalogued are eligible for either the Westspeed Platinum or standard Westspeed scheme. Some 69 lots are BOBS eligible, and all lots offered are eligible to be paid up for the $11 million plus, Magic Millions Race Series. To view the catalogue for the 2019 Magic Millions Perth Sale, download the details via the Equineline IPad app.

● Tye Angland, injured at Sha Tin. Racing Photos after a shocking fall at Sha Tin in Hong Kong, now nearly three weeks ago. ■ It was certainly encouraging news for leadHis treatment will be continued at the North ing jockey, Sydney's Tye Angland, being re- Shore Hospital in Sydney. urned home to convalesce in his home town Angland was badly hurt around the head area in a sickening fall nearly a month ago, and had surgery in a Hong Kong Hospital. The jockey's condition had been labelled as serious, but stable, though the extent of his injuries has not been revealed. His wife, Erin, flew to Hong Kong and came back with her husband and an attending doctor recently. Angland rode five Group Ones last season. He also won the Victoria Derby on Ace High at Flemington over the Melbourne Cup Carnival last year. I had the pleasure of meeting Tye. a couple of years ago, at the Caulfield Cup meeting. A genuine nice type of person, we wish him well.

Jockey returns

Ted Ryan

Country Cups

■ Victorian racegoers are certainly enjoying racing in the country, judging by the crowds attending going back to Bendigo at the end of October with nearly 10,00 in attendance. Geelong had a similar crowd, also in October, like Bendigo with a good meeting scheduled. Ballarat attracted a number of racegoers also around the 10,000 at their track with great racing, like the above The Sale Turf Club also attracted a big gathering to their lovely Green Wattle track, with plenty of action. Wodonga, near the border with New South Wales, attracted nearly 10,000 with their Cup meeting. While little Dunkeld, who only race once a year, had around 10,000; outstanding for the lovely little country town. I would like to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

● Champion trainer Chris Waller. Racing Photos

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Wine Column Mr Mick leaves his legacy

● The Mr Mick restaurant: something of a homecoming for Tim Adams. ■ Many years ago, when Tim Adams was studying winemaking at Riverina College of Advanced Education - not Charles Sturt University - he was working at the Clare Valley's large Leasingham operation, where the legendary Mick Knappstein was Chief Winemaker. The late 'Mr Mick' always described Adams as his 'last apprenctice' and obviously had a profound influence on his charge. So when Adams, who had since established a very successful eponymous Clare winery, took over the Leasingham winery and vineyards in 2009 and 2010 it was something of a homecoming. In some ways nothing had changed for Adams over the years. Whenever he was about to release a new wine, he still asked himself whether Mr Mick would have approved and only went ahead if he could answer the question in the affirmative. And it was hardly a surprise that his new label - Mr Mick - celebrated his mentor nor that the new restaurant and cellar door carried the same title. The wines were quite different, though, to those that Adams produced for his own label. They were clearly intended for immediate consumption rather than cellaring, and for drinking rather than contemplation. With the Mr Mick wines the only question that Adams and his wife Pam Goldsack - who is very much part a partner in business as well as in life - wanted people to ask was whether they needed another bottle. The range - Mr Mick Rosé, Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, Riesling,Tempranillo, Cabernet Merlot, Shiraz, Late Harvest Riesling,Tawny and an NV Brut named after Mr Mick's wife, Gela - has recently been boosted by the addition of a Grenache, reviewed today as Wine of the Week. Mick Knappstein always believed that the primary purpose of wine was to give drinkers pleasure and I'm sure he'd be chuffed at the range that carries his name. DRINKS REVIEWS Xanadu 2017 Chardonnay ($39): This cool-climate dry white from West Australia's Margaret River is very much in the modern style, showing plenty of fruit and only restrained oak. The fruit flavours are predominantly pear and stonefruit, and they have been enhanced by barrel fermentation and aging on yeast lees. It's a complex wine that deserves complex food such as quite richly sauced seafood. The West Winds Wild Plum Gin ($85 for 700ml): This full-strength spirit comes in at 39 per cent alcohol by volume so is not be toyed with. The base gin is high quality and the plum and honey flavours quite subtle and certainly not overdone. It is versatile in uses - make up your own cocktail, use for a quite exotically flavoured G&T, or just splash over ice and enjoy it on the rocks. WINE OF THE WEEK Mr Mick 2018 Grenache ($17): This medium-bodied red is unoaked so dependent on fresh fruit flavour for its appeal. And it has an abundance of juicy, red-berry flavours that quickly take to the fore. A simple wine demands simple food, and this is an ideal pizza wine. Or just relax with a glass on the deck after work … and don't be apologetic about tossing in an ice cube or two if the weather gets hot. - John Rozentals

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 65

Deck-Doc

Local company chosen as best in the world

For many years Deck-Doc has been supplying retailers throughout Australia with their premium range of timber and decking oils. For the past three years, Deck-Doc has been predominantly selling their products online to service the whole of Australia as well as international customers.

Deck-Doc was recently chosen over other companies to supply their oils to an international company and is in the process of sealing an agency agreement for exclusive distribution and selling rights in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Deck-Doc timber oil is environmentally friendly and the business has been manufacturing unique, lanolin-based timber oil in Geelong for 15 years. The formula was developed by Robert Hylands to preserve the natural oils and tannins in the timber. The timbers oils and tannins determine the colour of the timber. If the tannins dry out, the timber will lose its own natural colour. The formula is made up of many different plant oils, waxes and lanolin and designed to stay soft and pliable when absorbed into the surface layers of the timber, therefore will not solidify and form a hard membrane of the surface. It will move with the timber during all weather conditions preventing water absorption and drying out of the tannins. Mr Hylands first developed the timber oil when he noticed there was nothing on the market that preserved the timber and protected the timber’s natural colour. Before his time at Deck-Doc, he gained experience when he owned a factory making hand carved, handpainted wooden decoy ducks for duck hunters. The timber used for the ducks had to maintain its natural colour and stay on the water without absorbing moisture. After extensive research, he found lanolin (wool grease) gave excellent water repellency as well as UV protection. Mr Hylands developed lanolin-based timber protection oil and found the water-repellent protection and preservative way far superior and says lanolin is “Nature’s natural UV protection”. Lanolin comes from the wool of sheep and is extracted from the fleece. It is a substance that waterproofs, insulates, and protects sheep from the cold, wind, rain and harmful CV sun rays. Deck-Doc uses the best merino wool to extract lanolin. Throughout history ancient mariners such as the Vikings used lanolin to protect, waterproof and preserve the wooden boards on their ships. Many of the ships were away from their home bases for many years and their ships were subjected to wild storms at sea. They survived thanks to the protection of Lanolin. Deck-Doc invites all to visit their showroom in Moolap for free advice in a number of important issues concerning timber care. There is a large selection of timber types that have been exposed to severe weather conditions, enabling people to understand the importance of choosing a suitable timber type. for the right application. Also know what happens to the different types of decking stains and coatings, how they weather, and the maintenance required. The friendly staff have useful hints for anyone preparing to build a new deck.

Page 66 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018

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Rural News

SUMMER IS HERE, ORDER YOUR TANK NOW

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Melbourne Obser ver - Wednesday, December 19, 2018 - Page 67

Page 68 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, December 19, 2018

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Learning to Ride

Balance Bikes from Ivanhoe Cycles Balance Bikes (also called training bikes) are pedalless bikes designed to provide fun and exercise and to teach the basic skills of steering, balance and co-ordination. They are suited to a child from 2 to 5 years of age. The child simply sits astride the balance bike and "walks" while steering with the handlebars.

It effectively allows them to learn balance without having to learn to pedal at the same time. It cuts the learning "gradient" down. They are also called pre bikes or first bikes. Balance bikes are becoming increasingly popular, as it is so much easier to learn to ride. Learning to ride can be achieved at their own pace. A less confident child can “walk” it around for as long as they like, then

when ready, they can gradually lift their feet and scoot along until they are ready to simply push off and just roll along. More confident kids will be flying around with huge smiles in no time at all. Because they have a sturdy aluminium or steel frame and well constructed wheels they are virtually trouble free, and can be passed down from child to child.

BYK E250L PURPLE $219

GIANT PRE BIKE - RED $199

Mongoose Lilgoose WNR Girls Balance Bike 12 Inch $179

Byk E250L Purple - Girls 14inch Balance Bike

12 inch boys balance bike that is a perfect gradient for learning to ride a real bike

The low stand-over height makes it very easy to get on and off the bike,

LIL ZOOMER BALANCE BIKE - GREEN $99

BYK E200L $189

Little Zoomer Balance Bike in any colour. A fun way to teach balance and coordination! Suitable 2-4 years.

Byk E200L. Balance Bikes make it so much easier for your child to learn to ride.

MONGOOSE LILGOOSE WNR BOYS BALANCE BIKE 12 INCH $179 The Mongoose Lilgoose Balance bike is not only one of the cutest designs we've seen on a training bike.