Melbourne Observer. 130213C. February 13, 2013. Part C. Pages 59-72

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013 - Page 59

Melbourne

Observer Travellers’ Good Buys

with David Ellis

From Mad Max to 5-star: been there, ‘dune’ that ■ HE welcome sign casts a shadow reminiscent of Arthur Boyd’s Ned Kelly as Angus Jameson’s fourwheel-drive mounts another crest to reveal Tin City, a post-apocalyptic, Mad-Max-like settlement amid the sand dunes of Stockton Beach just north of Newcastle. And the first question one asks oneself is, how come such a place like this even exists? And the second, how come it survives the ever-shifting dunes that constantly threaten to swallow-up this mostly corrugated-iron “city,” and which would look more at home in the war zone of Afghanistan than on the doorstep of NSW’s second largest city? The answers: necessity and tenacity. Tin City evolved during the Great Depression when a dozen or so individuals and families banded together and threw up a collection of galvanised iron shanties, eking out a communal existence based largely on catching fish off their rent-free, awayfrom-everything beach and trapping wildlife further inland. Most drifted off after the economy improved, but the settlement reemerged again after WWII, and while some of the oldest residences succumbed to the shifting sands, a handful are still occupied to this day – their owners daily having to dig-away windblown sands that pile-up against their walls, and the local council having a moratorium on any new construction.

● Tin City – a daily battle with the ever-shifting Stockton Beach sand dunes

Observer Wines & Liqueurs Melbourne

with David Ellis

Serious blend in fun package ■ Australian winemakers are amongst the world’s best when it comes to creating blends, wines that in many cases can prove far more rewarding than straight varietals. And a very interesting, and yes rewarding, blend that’s now on bottle shop shelves is Fifth Leg’s 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot, a drop that winemaker, Oliver Crawford sums up as “a serious wine in a fun package.” ndeed Fifth Leg is a fun and quality label, produced by Devil’s Lair Wines in the heart of Western Australia’s Margaret River region, and so named after the fossilised remains of a Tasmanian Tiger with a mysterious fifth leg were found in a cave near the winery. How it got there from Tasmania, and how it came to have a fifth leg, will doubtless remain forever two of life’s little mysteries. The Cabernet Sauvignon component gives this wine dark cherry and blackberry fruit notes and grippy tannins, the Shiraz provides plum, pepper and spice, and the Merlot adds nice juicy red fruits on the nose and palate. A great drop at $17.99 with that next family Sunday roast.

Pictured ■ Great drop with that next family Sunday roast. ■ Aussie sparkling made with best French Méthode Champenoise technique.

One to note ■ Victoria’s Blue Pyrenees,180kms north-west of Melbourne, was conceived by French Champagne houses Krug and Charles Heidseick (then known as Chateau Remy) back in 1963, but today it still pays homage to its French heritage by making classic Australian sparklings in the Méthode Champenoise technique. Their 2009 Midnight Cuvee – sonamed because the grapes are hand-picked at night under moonlight to avoid heat of day damage – is a stand-out bubbly with loads of sparkle and delicious flavour; pay $32 and go forth and enjoy this one at that next party or celebration.

We’re archived on http://vintnews.com

(And yes, you have seen it in Mad Max and some TV commercials.) Angus Jameson’s Port Stephens 4WD Tours is one of several companies that operate daily tours along the 32km Stockton Beach – the largest “mobile” coastal sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere – and incorporating a visit to Tin City amid those ever-wandering 30m high sand dunes. And he shares with guests his extraordinary knowledge of the local history, nature and diversity of the dunes, and their incorporated Worimi Conservation Lands that embrace Aboriginal middens (piles of shells and food bones) 12,000 years old. And ship wrecks. Over 100 vessels have foundered off Stockton Beach, the largest the 53,000 tonne Norwegian bulk carrier Sygna that was blown ashore by 185km/hr winds during an horrific storm in 1974, and one of the largest ships to be wrecked off the Australian east coast. Parts of it can still be seen today, as can concrete anti-tank traps and barbed wire entanglements laid to prevent a feared Japanese invasion during WWII … and interestingly while the first “community” grew up with those shanties during the Depression, other buildings had actually been put up on remote Stockton Beach as far back as the late 1800s – stocked with provisions for ship-wrecked sailors. At the beach’s extreme north-east, around Anna Bay, there’s a car park for visitors, kiosk, camel rides and a magnificent slope of slippery golden sand that’s a magnet for thrill-seeker sand-boarders who career down the amazing 60-degrees. And while you can opt for accommodation right beachfront in Port Stephens, places like the 5-star Amarna Resort on Dutchmans Bay Beach are certainly anything but beachfront Tin City: a 25-metre lap pool, 10-person spa, outstanding views, and luxurious furnishings are just the beginnings. All one- and two-bedroom suites and three- and four-bedroom splitlevel penthouses here are fully selfcontained with modern kitchens, large living areas, separate laundries and furnished balconies, making it the sort of place you’ll probably not want to venture very far away from. But if you do, it’s just a 15-minute waterfront stroll to d’Albora Marina, Nelson Bay’s focal point for dining and nautical activity. Or just a short drive or slightly longer walk to Peppers Anchorage at Corlette Point, and which offers a spectacular location for breakfast, high tea, lunch or dinner. Port Stephens and Nelson Bay, just 2.5hrs drive north of Sydney, also provide some of the readiest access to whale-watching the busy humpback highway that runs along our east coast from around May to November, and to pods of dolphins that enjoy Port Stephens’ sheltered waters year round. Other activities include snorkelling and scuba-diving, spotting for koalas at Anna Bay which has one of Australia’s largest populations of the marsupial, Nelson Head Heritage Lighthouse and Reserve, testing your fitness walking to the top of Tomaree Headland to enjoy the expansive views of Port Stephens and surrounding islands, and parasailing over the dolphin-rich waters. For more information contact Port Stephens Tourism on 1800 808 900 or www.portstephens.org.au; the Amarna Resort 02 49811644 or www.amarnaresort.com.au

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Page 60 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Observer Readers’ Club The Way We Were

Melbourne Photo Flashback

IN PRINT: Read the Melbourne Observer every week. Buy at your newsagent, or by mail subscription. FACEBOOK: Follow our updates, and post your own coments at www.facebook.com/ MelbourneObserverGroup TWITTER: Follow our updates, and post your own Tweets at www.twitter.com/ MelbourneObs BY POST: Mail contributions to Observer Readers’ Club PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095

100 Years Ago The Fitzroy City Press Saturday, February 15, 1913

MISS IVY BICKFORD. This young lady, so well and favourably known in. the Melbourne theatrical world, is .making rapid strides in the profession and has scored :a decided .success, in The Sunshine Girl at Her. Majesty's Theatre in Sydney: Writing of her appearance in that popular musical comedy, the Sydney Referee says : The Laughing Song, My Little Baby Bumble Bee, Publicity, and The Baby Glide are not to be found in the score of The Sunshine Girl. These interpolated numbers were. amongst the successful features on Saturday night. In the singing line the blue ribbon of the performance was won without an effort by Miss Ivy. Bickford. Here's to Love ! with chorus, early in the second part, put all the other numbers in the shade. The centre figure is a graceful and aninmted stage picture, Miss Bickford, as Emmeline, had the genuine operatic ring in her clear, healthy voice, as. she invited the county ladies and the Sunlight girls to join her 'So here's a health to those we love, And to those who love us too. To those we'd simply love to love us, And those who really do; To love .long since forgotten; To loves not yet begun; So here's a health to every lover Beneath the sun.' Wlile Miss Bickford and the chorus were letting themselves go in the spirited and Dorothy like music of Here's To Love ! one might easily have imagined the Quinlan Grand Opeera Company back at Her Majesty’s.

Join in our chat

● Valentine’s Day. Sorting at the Melbourne General Post Office. 1881.

Word Of The Week

Reader Recipes

■ Xenial. Of or concerning hospitality towards guests

Birthdays/Celebrations

Personals ■ Best wishes to Helen Cronin, wife of Paul (‘Dave Sullivan’) in the TV series. ■ We have just been informed of the passing last year of Observer subscriber Nola Parkhill of East Bentleigh. Our condolences to the family. ■ See a notice from ‘ACEE’ in today’s Melbourne Observer Classifieds.

Your Stars with Christina La Cross ARIES (MAR 21 - APR 20) Financial issues are highlighted and if you have been hiding away from a monetary worry then this is the perfect time to bring it out into the open and deal with it. Pisceans provide good advice. TAURUS (APR 21 - MAY 21) Your finances are at long last set for some improvement but you may have to sacrifice your spare time in order to make this as dramatic a change as you would like. Geminis bring good news. GEMINI (MAY 22 - JUNE 21) Because of your kindness of nature and how understanding you have been in a recent setback in your life, those with the power are willing to help you skip the queue as you're soon find out. CANCER (JUNE 22 - JULY 23) You may not feel like playing fair in love, but let's face it, you have to. If you don't, you'll only experience years of trying to get to where you could be tomorrow. The choice is obvious. LEO (JULY 24 - AUG 23) You think those with the power don't have their eye on you and don't even know your name, but you are wrong. By sticking to your plan today you'll see just how highly you're regarded. VIRGO (AUG 24 - SEPT 23) The company you have been seeking for so long is right in front of your eyes. Sure, it is complicated. But if you give the word, everything will fall into place like magic. LIBRA (SEPT 24 - OCT 23) Time seems to be running short to complete something which you had thought you might give up on. See what a little perseverance does Libra? Your romantic side brings out a confession tonight. SCORPIO (OCT 24 - NOV 22) Family have, and still are, making unfair demands on you. It's almost as if they think you owe it to them to be loyal when you and I know you have your own agenda to complete. SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23 - DEC 21) Don't take new faces at first impressions or you will lose out on what could have been a good lifetime friendship. Travel you make in the name of work brings you an opportunity of a lifetime. CAPRICORN (DEC 22 - JAN 20) Don't be led by the crowd but try to make your own mind up about the scenario which has developed over the last few days. You're thinking you're not taken care of, but you're wrong. AQUARIUS (JAN 21 - FEB 19) You seem to be agonizing over events in the past which you can't change. That's true Aquarius, you can't change what happened but you can change how you approach the future, starting today. PISCES (FEB 20 - MARCH 20) New friends may be the cause of jealousy for old friends in your life. Try to arrange something where they can all mix together. It's the separation you've made that seems to be the source of envy.

FAX: 1-800 231 312 E-MAIL: editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au

● Chocolate tart and a cuppa: a Valentines Day treat just for you Courtesy: Taste.com.au Ingredients 125g chilled butter 1 cup (150g) plain flour 1/3 cup (60g) icing sugar mixture 1/4 cup (30g) almond meal 1/4 cup (30g) cocoa powder 1 egg yolk Raspberries, to serve Thin cream, to serve Chocolate custard filling 4 egg yolks 1 tbs custard powder 2 tbs caster sugar 200g dark chocolate, chopped 300ml thin cream 1 cup (250ml) milk Step 1: Place the butter, flour, icing sugar, almond meal and cocoa powder in the bowl of a food processor and process until mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and process until mixture just comes together. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until almost smooth. Shape into a disc. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 30 minutes to rest. Step 2: Preheat oven to 200°C. Roll pastry on a lightly floured surface to a 4mm-thick disc. Line the base and side of a 23cm (base measurement) round, fluted tart tin with removable base. Use a sharp knife to trim the edges. Place in the fridge for 15 minutes to rest. Step 3: Place the tart tin on an oven tray. Line the pastry with baking paper and fill with rice or beans. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove the rice or beans and bake for a further 5 minutes or until pastry is just cooked through. Reduce oven temperature to 160°C. Step 4: Meanwhile, to make the filling, combine the yolks, custard powder and sugar in a saucepan. Add the chocolate, cream and milk and place over low heat. Cook, occasionally whisking with a balloon whisk, for 5 minutes or until chocolate melts and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Step 5: Pour the chocolate custard mixture into the pastry case. Bake in oven for 20 minutes or until custard is just set. Remove from oven and set aside to cool completely. Place in the fridge to chill. Step 6: Place on a serving plate. Top with raspberries and serve with thin cream.

■ Wednesday, February 13. Chris Keating (46). Laura Musial (33). ■ Thursday, February 14. Mavis Ellis. ■ Friday, February 15. John Pasquarelli (76). Pamela Sinnamon of Braybrook (63). ■ Saturday, February 16. Christine Whyte. Theresea Willey. Randiko man Ken Guy, now retired was born in Sunshine. Malcolm Blight (63). ■ Sunday, February 17. Lisa Rudd. Val Wishart. ■ Monday, February 18. Best birthday wishes to dashing man-about-town Christian Wagstaff. Deborah Jane Grey. Greta Donaldson. Gavin Wood. Former Lord Mayor Ivan Deveson (79). ■ Tuesday, February 19. Lisa McCune (42).

Cheerios

■ A special ‘cheerio’ to Observer reader Sheila Heath of Hoppers Crossing/Werribee. Our best wishes. ■ Old Overnighters radio program listeners will join in wishing ‘Harmonica Mavis’ Ellis of Preston well on her birthday tomorrow (Thurs., Feb. 14). ■ Suzanne of Docklands sends birthday wishes for Feb. 18 to Christian Wagstaff, Melbourne creative genius. She is joined by the Mooroolbark Chamber of Commerce and former staff of the Nunawading Gazette.

● Christian Wagstaff

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013 - Page 61

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Observer Showbiz Every Week in the Melbourne Observer

Radio: Sorry Chrissie, we don’t buy it .......... Page 62 Veritas: ‘Go!’ show makes a comeback ............ Page 63 The Spoiler: Neighbours, Home And Away ............ Page 63 Jim and Aaron: The Best Movies, DVDs .................... Page 64 Cheryl Threadgold: Local theatre shows, auditions ........ Page 65 PLUS THE LOVATT”S MEGA CROSSWORD

WHAT A JOY TO BE ALIVE MSO returns to Myer Music Bowl ■ The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra invites all Victorians to join them for the 2013 Sidney Myer Free Concerts this month. Over four concerts, the orchestra will be conducted by one of Australia’s most vibrant conductors, MSO Associate Conductor Benjamin Northey, as well as guest conductor Ainars Rubikis. The annual free concerts, which have been taking place in one of the world’s greatest outdoor venues for music, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, since it opened in 1959 are presented in association with the University of Melbourne. André Gremillet, MSO Managing Director said, “The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra belongs to the people of Victoria and these concerts truly are one of the highlights of the Orchestra’s year. It is great to see a diverse range of Victorians gather in the Bowl to enjoy the music of the MSO.” Young Latvian conductor Ainars Rubikis – currently lighting up the concert platforms of the world with his talent – makes his Australian debut in the exciting opening program, East Side Story, to be held today (Wed., Feb. 13) and featuring music by Dvorák, Bartók and Tchaikovsky. On Saturday (Feb. 16), prize-winning Melbourne-based pianist Hoang Pham will join Rubikis and the MSO for Beethoven and Bartók. Pham is soloist in Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Orchestra also performing Beethoven Symphony No.2 and Bartók’s The Miraculous Mandarin: Suite. Also during this concert, the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music will honour Australian musicologist, critic and author Roger Covell as the recipient of the 2013 Sir Bernard Heinze Memorial Award for his outstanding contribution to music in Australia. The third concert, Full Moon Dances, on Wednesday, February 20, will be conducted by Benjamin Northey. This colourful program includes the concert work by John Williams created for the Steven Spielberg film Catch Me If You Can and will feature saxophonist Amy Dickson as soloist. A showcase of all-Australian talent will round out the series on Saturday, February 23, when Northey is joined by violinist Kristian Winther and soprano Siobhan Stagg. The concert, Mozart and Mahler, will feature Mozart’s La clemenza di Tito: Overture and Violin Concerto No.3 and culminate with Mahler Symphony No. 4. The encore for this concert will be conducted by a young Victorian called Matthew who is from the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Matthew - who lives with cerebral palsy and cortical impairment - will be conducting the orchestra as part of the foundation’s wish-granting program. For great musical entertainment this summer, pack a picnic, bring your friends and family and enjoy beautiful music at Melbourne’s favourite outdoor venue. Admission is free. Due to the popularity of this event, the Sidney Myer Music Bowl often reaches capacity. When this occurs the Arts Centre Melbourne is required to close the entrance gates. The MSO asks that patrons bring only plastic drinking glasses or paper cups and do not bring hard-sided hampers, eskies or any other items that can be used as an elevated seat. Gates open at 4pm. All concerts commence at 7pm.

By CHERYL THREADGOLD

Language warning for ‘The Boys’ ■ PEP Productions presents The Boys, from February 15 to 23 at the Doncaster Playhouse, 679 Doncaster Rd, Doncaster. Written by Gordon Graham and directed by Justin Cleaver, The Boys tells of Brett Sprague, recently released from jail, reunited with his family and ready to reclaim his life. However, things have changed while Brett has been inside. As Brett’s disruptive force takes hold, tensions flare and Brett embarks on a drink-fuelled rampage, sweeping his brothers along with him – with terrifying consequences. Performances: February 15, 16, 21, 22, 23 at 8.00pm. Venue: The Doncaster Playhouse Tickets: $22 Bookings: www.trybooking.com/CFFW, or phone 0418 549 187, or email pep.productions06@gmail.com Warning: this production contains adult themes and offensive language.

● Tom Davies in What a Joy To Be Alive, presented at La Mama Theatre from February 14- March 3. ■ La Mama Theatre presents What A Joy To Be Alive, from February 14 to March 3 at La Mama Theatre, 206 Faraday Street, Carlton. Directed and devised by John Bolton and performed by Tom Davies and Chris Bolton, What A Joy To Be Alive builds upon Home Stretch, the previous work of Davies and director John Bolton, first developed for La Mama's Explorations Season and then presented by The Dog Theatre. The work is a duet for a musician and a man on the run, his crime unknown and his love remembered. The character played by Tom Davies has a mischievous glint in his eye. Sometimes we glimpse his deep sadness, sometimes he horrifies us, and sometimes he is incredibly funny. He moves like a strange animal, performs an obscene melodramatic pantomime and dances to exhaustion. The language employed by this character is spare, visceral and poetic: of the gut, the gutter and of beauty. The music for the work is composed and performed by Chris Bolton, playing a multitude of musical styles, lyrical and atmospheric, loud and ferocious, classical Spanish guitar, samples, loops, or a haunting love song. Times: Wed, Fri, Sun 6:30pm. Thu, Sat 8:30pm Venue: La Mama Theatre, 205 Faraday St, Carlton Bookings: online www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142 Tickets: $25 Full, $15 Concession

● Peter Young (Brett) in The Boys, being presented at the Doncaster Playhouse from February 15 to 23. Photo: Lorraine Williams

MCs named for RAW Comedy ■ The RAW Comedy MCs for the remaining Melbourne heats, preliminary finals and ictorian State Final are as follows: Qualifying Heats: Qualifying Heat #5: Sun , Feb 17, 1pm. ?The Comics Lounge. 26 Errol Street, North Melbourne. (MCs Jeff Green and Kate McLennan) Qualifying Heat #6: Sat , Feb 23 , 1pm. ?The Comics Lounge. 26 Errol Street, North Melbourne. (MCs Tommy Dassalo and Karl Chandler) Qualifying Heat #7: Sun , Feb 24 ,

1pm, The Comics Lounge. 26 Errol Street, North Melbourne (MCs Adam Richard and Danny McGinlay) Preliminary Finals: Preliminary Final #1: Tues., Feb 19, 6.30pm The Evelyn Hotel. 351 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy (MC Adam Rozenbach) Preliminary Final #2: Tues, Feb, 26. 6.30pm The Evelyn Hotel. 351 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy (MC TBC) Preliminary Final #3: Tues., Mar 5, 6.30pm The Evelyn Hotel. 351 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy (MC Joel Creasey) Preliminary Final #4: Tues, Mar 12 ,

6.30pm The Evelyn Hotel. 351 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy (MC Dave Thornton) State Final: Mon, Mar, 18. 6.30pm The Evelyn Hotel. 351 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy (MC Dave Callan, FeatureAct Ronny Chieng) Tickets: www.rawcomedy.com.au RAW Comedy is a nationwide search for Australia's funniest new comedian. The National Grand Final will be held as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival on April 14.

Page 62 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, November 2, 2011

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Observer Radio Confidential Showbiz News from stations from around Victoria

SORRY CHRISSIE, WE DON’T BUY IT

Country Crossroads info@country crossroads.com.au Big Breakfast Show. Southern FM 88.3. Tues. 6am-9am.

Rob Foenander

IT’S A COUNTRY SONG

■ Allan Caswell, one of Australia's finest singer-songwriters, has released his latest CD, It's A Country Song. The multiple Golden Guitar, Aria winner and writer of the theme from Prisoner, On The Inside, has put together an easy listening selection of 15 original, traditional style country tunes along with some infectious contemporary and thought provoking songs on this release. More info at www.allancaswell.com/

RASCALL FLATS IN MELB.

■ American country band Rascall Flatts will perform at the Palais Theatre on March 15. Rascal Flatts is one of the most successful groups in country music history, with more than 21 million album sales, 25 million digital downloads, and 14 US #1 singles over the course of their 13-year career.

COUNTRY ROUND-UP

■ The Hallam Hotel presents the 2013 Country Music Round Up on Good Friday, March 29 from 2pm. The event is an annual fundraising venture for the Royal Childrens Hospital and will feature The Prairie Oysters, Adam Toms and Band, Tim Farren Band, Mick Pealing and other local artists. Admission prices are Adults $25 Kids 8-17 years $15 Kids Under 7 years Free

JOSH MEETS HIS IDOL

■ Melbourne country music young gun Joshua Aiello got to meet his hero Keith Urban at his Melbourne concert . After winning a meet-and-greet competition, Josh had front row seats to the much anticipated sold-out concert at Rod Laver Arena. Also thrown in was a guitar plectrum that he will no doubt keep safely. Josh in return gave Keith a USB stick of his own songs making full use of the golden opportunity. - Rob Foenander

■ John Kerr, star of Tea and Sympathy and South Pacific, has died at age 81. Kerr began his acting career on the stage, making his Broadway debut in Bernardine in 1953.

r Observbei z Show

■ If the publicity is to be believed, Mix 101.1 breakfast show co-host Chrissie Swan bid up to $53,000 for photographs published this week by Woman’s Day magazine. Swan, full of tears, went to air last week to confess that she had been photographed having a cigarette - whilst seven months pregnant. Swan says she pleaded for the pictures with the photographer, and her management company says it bid $2000 short of the Womans Day offer of $55,000. Swan either has too much money ... or this was a manufactured publicity stunt, that coincided with the second week of radio ratings, and just days before Monday’s season launch of Can Of Worms on the Ten Network this week. Her management company is part-owned by Ian ‘Dicko’ Dickson, no stranger to engineering his own publicity stunts. Isn’t it a coincidence that it was a Ten Network camera exclusively in her Richmond radio studio when she decided to admit smoking five cigarettes a week. Swan also appeared on The Project program, also part of the Ten line-up. We note Mix 101.1 had breakfast program co-host Jane Hall voiced high-rotation promotions for the story. We also note that Mix moved the story to its 3PM Pick-Up program, which also is relayed into the Sydney sister station, to benefit from the national publicity. Sorry Chrissie, we don’t buy the crocodile tears.

Streaming works for GDR ■ The internet is a powerful tool for Melbourne’s Golden Days Radio 95.7. As well as broadcasting on the FM band, GDR is heard on the website:goldendaysradio.

MIX BREAKFAST HOST ‘OFFERS TO PAY FOR PHOTOS’

Push to drop Overnight

■ Veritas hears that the Advertising Sales Department of Sydney radio station 2UE is keen to drop the Australia Overnight program that is relayed from Melbourne’s 3AW. There is a significant push to sell enough local advertising from the Sydney marketplace, to replace the show currently fronted by Andrew McLaren and Mark Petkovic.

● Chrissie Swan: ‘offered to pay $53,000 for pix’ com - with Station Manager Alex Hehr saying that the statistics are showing the popularity of the station. “These show a large growth in new listeners, and a steady number tuning in on average every week to hear Golden Days Radio online. “For the month of January our website had 1921 unique (new) visitors, a total of 4084 visits, and 55,439 hits,” Alex told the Melbourne Observer. The Golden Days Radio studios are in Glen Huntly. ● Alex Hehr

★

Old habits die hard. Former ‘Drive’ show host Derryn Hinch is still lamenting ain public about being sacked by 3AW. At his humanheadline.com.au website, Hinch talks about the “‘worthless’ campaign that got me sacked”. The truth is that 3AW replaced Hinch with Tom Elliott for economic reasons.

Radio reach expands

■ Retired 3AW newsman Ron Bourke is still doing shifts on the Melbourne news-talk station ... as well as his own midweek Get Up And Go program on Sunbury community radio station 3NRG-FM. Bourke is joined at 8.45am every Wednesday by Observer Editor Ash Long. Long also appears at 10am on Pulse FM, Geelong, with Denis Scanlan; and at 9.15am Thursdays with Bob Phillips and Judy Banks-Phillips on 3RPP-FM, Mornington Peninsula.

★

Paul Xiradis, through his boutique fund Ausbil Dexia, has taken a significant stake in Fairfax Media, which operates the Fairfax Radio network. Xiradis has been building the stake through a series of on-market transactions, and jas just moved over the 5 per cent threshold requiring disclosure to the market regarding the shareholding, which is worth just under $70 million. John Singleton also seeks more involvement with the Fairfax assets.

● Ron Bourke Melbourne

Observer

On This Day

Wednesday, Thursday, February 13 February 14

Friday, February 15

Saturday, February 16

Sunday, February 17

Monday, February 18

Tuesday, February 19

■ Singer Tennessee Ernie Ford was born in 1919. He died aged 72 in 1991. TV personality and actor Stuart Wagstaff is 88. He was born in Wiltshire in 1925. English singer Robbie Williams was born in 1974 (39). Actor George Segal is 79 (1934).

■ Australian entertainer Roy Rene ‘Mo’ (Henry van der Sluys) was born in Adelaide in 1892. He died aged 62 in 1954. Graham Kennedy was born in 1934. He died aged 71 in 2005. Football identity Neale Daniher was born in Ungarie, NSW, in 1961 (52).

■ Singer, and politician, Sonny Bono was born in 1935. He died aged 62 in 1998. Patty Andrews, a member of the Andrews Sisters, was born in 1918. She died recently. US tennis player John McEnroe was born in Germany in 1959 (52). Actress Lisa Loring was born in 1958 (55).

■ Folk poet Andrew ‘Banjo’ Paterson was born in NSW in 1864. He died aged 76 in 1941. British actress Patricia Routledge was born in Cheshire, England, in 1929 (84). US singer-songwriter Gene Pitney was born in 1940. He died aged 66 in 2006.

■ Sports commentator Rex Mossop was born in 1928. He died aged 83 in 2011. Director-producer Milos Forman was born in Czechoslovakia in 1932 (81). Artist and musician Yoko Ono was born in Japan in 1933 (80). Actor John Travolta was born in 1954 (59).

■ English actor Dick Emery was born in England in 1918. He died aged 65 in 1983. Actor Lee Marvin was born in New York in 1924. He died aged 63 in 1987. Prince Andrew was born in 1960 (53). Actress Zoe Carides was born in Sydney in 1962 (51).

■ Valentine’s Day. US entertainer Jack Benny was born in 1894. He died aged 80 in 1974. Sports caller Norman ‘Nugget’ May was born in Melbourne 85 years ago. Gold, gold, gold! Florence Henderson (Carol in The Brady Bunch) was born in 1934. She is 79.

Thanks to GREG NEWMAN of the Birthday Bulletin for assistance with birthday and anniversary dates. Find out more at www.birthdaybulletin.com.au

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013 - Page 63

Observer TV, Radio, Theatre Showbiz Latest Melbourne show business news - without fear or favour The Spoiler ‘GO!’ SHOW RETURNS Media Flashes

ShowBiz!

For Those Who Have Lost The Plot

Neighbours ■ 6.30pm. Weeknights. Eleven ■ Monday, February 18. Priya experiences an epiphany about her affair but struggles to communicate herself to Ajay. Bailey is burdened by a secret surrounding the break-in. ■ Tuesday, February 19. Priya struggles to keep her harassment from Ajay and Karl’s hopes of reconciliation are shattered when Susan files for divorce. ■ Wednesday, February 20. Sarah acts on her attraction to Karl, revealing her true intentions. Angie crosses the line with Sonya. How much more of Angie’s interference can Sonya take? ■ Thursday, February 21. Karl’s guilt over his kiss with Sarah drives him to confess to Susan the secret he's been harbouring for 14 years, but how will Susan react to his revelation? ■ Friday, February 22. A surprise gift from Lou causes tension amongst his family and Vanessa finds a way to give the Turners a home in Erinsborough.

Home and Away ■ 7.00pm. Weeknights. Channel 7. ■ Monday, February 18. Heath is told by Connie he'll be allowed supervised visits of Darcy only. Casey goes job hunting, having decided he and Tamara are going to move in together. Spencer convinces Maddy they should go home and give their parents another chance. ■ Tuesday, February 19. Tamara finds a place to live at Irene's, Casey is sacked by John at the Surf Club, and Heath turns a new leaf and takes over Angelo's. ■ Wednesday, February 20. Heath demotes Liam and promotes himself at Angelo's, Liam steals money from the till and Sasha gives April a hard time after she discovers she helped Tamara with a place to stay at Irene's. Jett is made to do an assignment on his own by bully Tilda. ■ Thursday, February 21. Marilyn tries to help Alf and Celia resolve their issues, Rosie reveals the truth about her family to Sasha, and Romeo and Indi decide to re-open the gym. Sid opens up to a psychiatrist but, having told the kids he is at a medical convention, is busted by Dex. ■ Friday, February 22. With Dex's support, Sid moves back to the farmhouse to start all over again. Romeo and Indi get a loan to re-open the gym, and Sid joins them as a silent partner. Celia's gambling partner Sheldon arrives and offers the chance to make money off one last bet.

Star Bursts

★

An Evening With Julie Andrews will be held at Hamer Hall at the Arts Centre Melbourne on Friday, May 31. Tickets, from $95 each, will be on sale from Tuesday, March 5.

★

Matt Edwards and Erin James are excited about the success of their AussieTheatre.com website since taking over from founder Troy Dodds. In January they had 49,650 individual visitors making a total of 70,000 visits to the site.

Remembering Monty

■ Veritas hears a rumour that Melbourne showbiz promoter Denis Smith will be bringing back the Go! Show Gold reunion in August. The show has been staged at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda, for the past two years, and included names including Normie Rowe, Marcie Jones, Johnny Young, Mike Brady, Robbie Burns, Glenn Shorrock, Bev Harrell and Dinah Lee. The previous shows were staged in March, but the wait until August will offer a break since the recent Long Way To The Top and Darryl Cotton Benefit concerts.

Radio etiquette ● Dennis Smith

Veritas

Melbourne’s Best TV-Radio Critic ● Tim Ross ■ What has happened to good manners towards listeners in radio? Mix 101.1 has inflicted an alleged comedian, Tim ‘Rosso’ Ross, on the Melbourne audience, in a ‘Drive’ program beamed infrom Sydney, 4pm-7pm. There is another voice on the program, but there was never a name given to Rosso’s offsider ... at least while Veritas was listening. In the past week or so, there has been a couple of mentions of ‘Matty’. Veritas speculates that Mix 101.1 will see a ratings drop from last year’s figures achieved by ‘Ant’ Simpson.

Fly trap ■ You have to hand it to Red Agency, the advertising people who help keep ‘Louie The Fly’ alive ... even though their client Mortein is supposed to kill him in a second. Now ... they have a campaign to have Louie immortalised as an exhibit

as an exhibit at Madame Tussauds “after the museum’s management rejected an initial approach”. As you might guess, the ad people are running a petition. You can bet that it has the approval of the wax museum. Louie was created in Australia in 1957 by writer and cartoonist Geoff Morgan Pike.

● Louie The Fly

■ Congratulations to Mike Willesee and the Sunday Night team (6.30pm, Sunday, Seven) on their interview with James Packer ... despite the plentiful ‘free kicks’ for his businesses.

Spaghetti western ● Judy Banks-Phillips and Bob Phillips ■ Mornington Peninsula based radio station RPPFM has had a “be out and be seen” policy during the summer season, staging many outside broadcasts around the Bay, says Vice-President and Assistant Program Director Bob Phillips. This continues today (Wed.) with ‘live’ coverage of the 2013 Mornington Cup hosted by ‘Sugar & Spice’ (Bob and wife Judy), along with Peter Smedley, Dennis Gist and the RPP outside broadcast team, from 11am. This is one of the major events on the Victorian racing calendar with prize money of $1 million.

Journalist Michael Idato says there may be not one, but two, mini-series about Australian business woman Gina Rinehart in the making. Network 10, in which Mrs Rinehart has a shareholding, is unlikely to be a buyer of either production.

★

Live from Mornington Cup

Great TV

★

An Italian mafia boss has been arrested on suspicion of forcing an entire village to vote for his singer daughter on a talent show.

■ An Observer subscriber wrote to congratulate the newspaper on republishing The Philosopher’s Scrpabook by 3DB’s Monty Blandford. They also tell this story about Monty: “I started at 3DB reading the News on a Sunday morning. “Monty Blandford became a great mate ... except when he went to ● Monty Blandford his locker and grabbed sandwiches wrapped in a brown paper bag. While I read the Sunday News ,Monty opened the paper bag right under the hanging microphone into which I was reading the News. “I was the new boy!Without looking, I pulled what I thought was the cough-button and yelled at Mont : "For Christ's sake, shut up". When the news was finished, the techo downstairs called that I'd pulled the ‘talk-back button’ ... nstead of the cough button. “I've still got the memo from (3DB boss) Sir Keith Murdoch: "A little less profanity in the Sunday News might help our ratings". ■ Our correspondent continues: “D'you how Monty got the Sunday morning job? He was on permanent staff at 3DB-LK. “When he reached the retiring age of 65 he collected his 'super'. He told me it was about 800 pounds. “He went home feeling very wealthy and told a ‘friend' about his 'super'. "Is that all?” said the friend. "Give it to me and I'll double it for you". Monty gave the friend the money, and that was the last he saw of it. The word of Monty's loss got back to The Herald and I heard Sir Keith ordered Mont to be rostered on every Sunday morning so that he could earn a little on the side. That was when Philosopher's Scrapbook began.”

Sports entertainment event ● DJANGO: Gun toting Franco Nero as the original Django in the classic 1966 spaghetti western. Jim Sherlock has more in his DVDvideo report on Page 76.

■ The Australian Racing Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on Thursday, February 21 at the Grand Hyatt, Melbourne.

Page 64 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Observer Movies, DVDs Showbiz With Jim Sherlock and Aaron Rourke What’s Hot and What’s Not in Blu-Rays and DVDs

● THE HOUR: Ben Whishaw with Romola Garai and Dominic West head the news team in season two of the sensational and thrilling British mini series FILM: THE HOUR - Season Two: Genre: TV/Drama. Cast: Ben Whishaw, Dominic West, Peter Capaldi, Romola Garai, Anna Chancellor. Year: 2012. Rating: M. Running Time: TBC. Format: DVD. Stars: **** Verdict: British drama just does not get much better than this! Set behind-the-scenes of a top rating 1956 investigative television news program, this second season of The Hour is a gripping Cold War tale that delves deep into and the criminal underworld, political manipulation, blackmail, cover-ups, murder and police corruption. And the less I say the better it is for you. This is a tour-de-force that impresses on every level: exceptionally well crafted, intelligently written, brimming with wonderfully colourful characters, striking set design, costume design and period detail, and superb performances all round. It is difficult to single out any one performance, but a special mention must go to Peter Capaldi (Local Hero, In The Loop, The Thick of It) as the head of the news team. The recreation of the period in the television studios and station overall is right on the mark, having been brought up and subsequently working in television and news in a building of the exact same era. I vividly remember the old corridors, offices, studios, the original television cameras, monitors and equipment, all now long gone. A haunting reflection and reminder of those to be trusted can also be those to be feared the most, as the line "it's the ghosts of the past that come back to haunt you" is delivered with underlying tragedy, fear and menace. The Hour: Season Two is a compelling, thrilling and nail-biting six part mini-series entertainment experience without compare. And there's a nice irony throughout, and never more delightfully relevant than now, only to say that it's your call, Miss Moneypenny. UNMISSABLE! FILM: DJANGO: Genre: Western. Cast: Franco Nero, Jose Bodalo. Year: 1966. Rating: M. Running Time: 87 Minutes. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: *** Verdict: In the wake of the enormous box-office, critical and award winning success of Quentin Tarantino's sensational Django Unchained, it's well worth visiting, or re-visiting, the cult classic Django. This Italian spaghetti western is of a coffin-dragging gunslinger who enters a town and caught up between brutal feuding factions. Like many of the spaghetti westerns produced in Italy during this period remains an imitation, or distant cousin to Sergio Leone's more stylish and highly influential Clint Eastwood classics A Fistful of Dollars, For a Few Dollars More and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, as well as My Name is Nobody and the epic masterpiece Once Upon a Time in The West, but it's still a barrel load of fun and one of the far superior and more entertaining offerings of the genre. But be warned, the similarities between this and Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained begin and end in name and title song only. FILM: THE QUENTIN TARANTINO COLLECTION Box Set: Cast: John Travolta, Robert De Niro, Bruce Willis, Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz. Genre: Crime/Drama/Action. Year: Assorted Years. Rating: R18+. Running Time: Assorted Running Times. Format: DVD and BLU-RAY. Stars: ****1/2 Verdict: An outstanding collection of groundbreaking films from the uniquely stylish and brilliant Oscar winning mind of Quentin Tarantino, overflowing with action, laughs, car chases, thrills, spills and much more, and starring such screen greats as John Travolta, Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, Uma Thurman, Robert De Niro, Brigitte Fonda, Michael Keaton, Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz (in his Oscar winning role), and many others! This box set includes his landmark cult classics Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, Jackie Brown, Kill Bill 1 & 2, Death Proof and Inglourious Basterds. Don't expect Shakespeare in here, this definitely not for the kiddies, it's all adults only.

31, 1932 January 15, 2013 NAGISA OSHIMA March ■ Maverick film-maker and highly influential cinematic artist Nagisa Oshima sadly passed away (from pneumonia) on January 15, aged 80. Born in Kyoto, Mr Oshima would quickly make his mark at Shochiku Studios in the mid-to-late 1950s. By 1960 he had become disillusioned by the studio system, and in 1965 created his production company, Sozosha. He was part of the New Wave group of film-makers, which included Shohei Imamura (Black Rain, The Ballad Of Narayama) and Masahiro Shinoda (Silence, Assassination). Mr Oshima's rebellious nature was evident right from the start, from his directorial debut A Town Of Love And Hope (1959), to subsequent films such as Naked Youth (1960) (****), The Sun's Burial (1960) (****), and Night And Fog In Japan (1960) (****½). Mr Oshima's work became darker and more critical of Japanese society, clearly evidenced in films like Pleasures Of The Flesh (1965) (****), Violence At Noon (1966) (****), Sing A Song Of Sex (1967) (****), Japanese Summer: Double

Suicide (1967) (****), Death By Hanging (1968), and Three Resurrected Drunkards (1968) (****). In the West, Mr Oshima is bestknown for the provocative 1976 film In The Realm Of The Senses (****), and the 1983 P.O.W drama Merry Christmas, Mr Lawrence (****), which starred David Bowie, Tom Conti and Jack Thompson. It was also the debut film of renowned actor/film-maker Takeshi 'Beat' Kitano (Hana-bi, Zatoichi). Mr Oshima's career almost came to a complete halt when he suffered a major stroke in 1996, from which he was never able to fully recover. In fact, he was only able to complete one more film, Taboo in 1999, a compelling samurai drama starring Kitano and Ryhui Matsuda. In The Realm Of The Senses, Empire Of Passion (1978), and Merry Christmas, Mr Lawrence are available locally on DVD, while some of Mr Oshima's earlier films are available on DVD in the US and the U.K. Unfortunately his highly praised documentary work is still hard to find outside of Japan.

VALENTINE’S DAY BEST

● Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood in the romantic drama The Bridges Of Madison County ■ For all those couples out there, ances from River Phoenix and Lili whether they be young or young-of- Taylor. heart, here is a list of films to touch Notting Hill (M) (1999). 123 minthe heart or tickle the funny bone (or utes. ****. both), any of which would be a highly Intelligently crafted rom-com entertaining date movie. scores a big bullseye, and a great cast When Harry Met Sally (M) (1989). are all in top form (even Julia Rob95 minutes. ****½. erts is tolerable). Hilarious romantic comedy with Say Anything (M) (1989). 100 minBilly Crystal and Meg Ryan sharing utes. ****. great screen chemistry. Young love is delicately handled It Happened One Night (PG) in Cameron Crowe's directorial de(1934). 105 minutes. *****. but. Stars John Cusack and Ione Skye. Sparkling gem starring Clark Bandits (M) (2001). 123 minutes. Gable and Claudette Colbert, and ****. handled with a perfect hand by direcUnder-rated rom-com was one of tor Frank Capra. the nicest surprises of 2001, with exSame Time, Next Year (M) (1978). cellent chemistry between Bruce 117 minutes. ****. Willis, Billy Bob Thornton and Cate A couple have a 26-year affair, af- Blanchett. ter a chance meeting while holidayThe Truth About Cats And Dogs ing alone. Wonderfully acted by Alan (M) (1996). 97 minutes. ***½. Alda and Ellen Burstyn. Delightful fim starring Janeane Casablanca (G) (1942). 102 min- Garofalo and Uma Thurman, about utes. *****. a radio show host who falls for a BritOne of the most famous films of ish photographer, but a case of misall-time, and still one of the most en- taken identity leads to various comtertaining. plications. Roman Holiday (G) (1953). 119 The Philadelphia Story (G) (1940). minutes. ****. 112 minutes. ****½. Probably Audrey Hepburn's Outstanding, dialogue-driven romstand-out romantic effort, playing a com with first-rate work from Cary princess who wants to escape the con- Grant, Katherine Hepburn and fines of her palace. Also stars the great James Stewart. Gregory Peck. The Bridges Of Madison County Dogfight (M) (1991). 92 minutes. (M) (1995). 135 minutes. ****. ****½. Beautifully made romantic drama Moving, involving drama side- starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl steps the usual romantic cliches, and Streep, with an exceptional use of siis helped by powerhouse perform- lence.

Top 10 Lists THE AUSTRALIAN BOX OFFICE TOP TEN: 1. DJANGO UNCHAINED. 2. THE SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK. 3. FLIGHT. 4. ZERO DARK THIRTY. 5. LIFE OF PI. 6. THE IMPOSSIBLE. 7. LES MISERABLES. 8. THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY. 9. THIS IS 40. 10. QUARTET. NEW RELEASES AND COMING SOON TO CINEMAS AROUND AUSTRALIA: FEBRUARY 7: ELLES, HANSEL & GRETEL: WITCH HUNTERS, LINCOLN, MOVIE 43, WHOLE LOTTA SOLE, ABCD (ANY BODY CAN DANCE). FEBRUARY 14: ANNA KARENINA, SAFE HAVEN, THE SWEENEY, WEST OF MEMPHIS. THE DVD TOP RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. THE EXPENDABLES 2 [Action/ Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Bruce Willis]. 2. LOOPER [Action/Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis, Emily Blunt]. 3. THE DARK KNIGHT RISES [Action/Crime/Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Tom Hardy]. 4. BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD [Drama/Dwight Henry, Quvenzhane Wallis]. 5. TED: Extended Edition [Comedy/Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane]. 6. THE WORDS [Drama/Bradley Cooper, Jeremy Irons]. 7. HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA [Animated/Comedy]. 8. ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTIAL DRIFT [Animated/Comedy/Ray Romano, Denis Leary]. 9. MADAGASCAR 3: Europe's Most Wanted [Family/Animated]. 10. BRAVE [Family/Animated/Adventure/Kelly MacDonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson]. Also: THE MENTAL, THE POSSESSION, ARBITRAGE, THE WATCH, HOUSE AT THE END OF THE STREET, RESIDENT EVIL: RETRIBUTION, LOCKOUT, TOTAL RECALL, SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN, MOONRISE KINGDOM. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON DVD THIS WEEK: KILLING THEM SOFTLY [Crime/ Drama/Brad Pitt, Ray Liotta, James Gandolfini]. LAWLESS [Drama/Tom Hardy, Shia LaBeouf, Jessica Chastain, Guy Pearce]. THE ORANGES [Comedy/Catherine Keener, Hugh Laurie]. WILL [Drama/Family/Damian Lewis, Bob Hoskins]. NEW & RE-RELEASE CLASSICS ON DVD HIGHLIGHTS: MRS. MINIVER [1942/Classic/ Drama/Greer Garson, Walter Pidgeon]. A STAR IS BORN [1954/Classic/ Drama/Judy Garland, James Mason, Jack Carson]. THE POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE [1946/Classic/Drama/Lana Turner, John Garfield]. THE JAZZ SINGER [1927/Classic/ Drama/Al Jolson]. Turn To Page 69

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013 - Page 65

Observer Local Theatre Showbiz With Cheryl Threadgold Observer Melbourne

INDEPENDENT THEATRE

‘KATERINA’ OPENS AT ELTHAM HEADLINER SHOW ■ Eltham Little Theatre presents Melbourne playwright and company member Paula J Armstrong’s play Katerina, from February 15-March 2 at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Rd, Research. Katerina tells of Kat, a single woman in her late 20s, having a major life slump and seeking to escape the drudgery of Debt Collection and become a playwright. She encounters writer’s block, but with help from her cross-dressing best friend, her domineering mother, a neighbour who has taken up residence in her cupboard, another with dementia dropping in all the time with the laundry, and yet another flashing all the women in the building, not to mention the return of an old flame who wants her back for good, Kat soon learns the value of love, friendship and saying ‘No’. This is a humorous, witty and action packed anecdotal rendition of one woman’s every-day life. Performance dates: February 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, March 1,2 at 8.00pm, February 24 at 2.00pm. Tickets: $22.50 full, $17.50 concession. Enquiries to the Ticket Secretary: eltboxoffice@gmail.com Phone bookings: 9437 1574 Online Bookings: www.trybooking.com/Booking/ BookingEventSummary.aspx?eid=40199

ARC Theatre

SHOWS

● Starring in the physical comedy The Masters at La Mama Courthouse from February 13 – 24 are four flawed, hilarious and endearing men played by Glynis Angell, Penny Baron, Clare Bartholomew and Kate Kantor. Photo: Andrew Wuttke ■ The Masters, a production by The Business, will be presented at La Mama Courthouse, Carlton, from February 13 – 24, directed by Merophie Carr and with physical comedy direction by Neill Gladwin. Barry (sprinter, Paul (pole vaulter), Ray (archery) and Pierre (discus) are thrilled to have been selected to represent Australia in Budapest for the World Masters – an international sporting competition for older athletes. With matching tracksuits, a rigorous training schedule and one goal in mind, they feel invincible! Will Barry defeat his old rival, Utu of Algeria in the 100 metre sprint? What if Ray’s arthritis won’t let him grip his bow and arrow? Will Pierre yet again confuse and dazzle his opponents into submission with his trademarked Pierre Discus Two-Hop? Will Paul get to soak in the famous Hungarian hot tubs with his mate from Greece, Divalia Fargos … and where did he put the keys to the minibus? Season: February 13 – 24, Tues – Sat 8pm. Sun 5pm Venue: La Mama Courthouse, 349 Drummond St, Carlton Tickets: $25 Full. $15 Concession Bookings: Tickets available online www.lamama.com.au or 9347 6142

AUDITIONS ■ MLOC Productions: Big the Musical Auditions: February 12, 14, 16, 17 at Parkdale Church of Christ.. Director: Trish Carr: Musical Director: Geoff Earle; Choreographer: Keir Jasper. Audition bookings essential: 9589 4912 www.mloc.org.au ■ Kidz 4 Kidz: Bugsy Malone February 15, 16, 17, Callbacks if required on February 18 at the Church Hall at 8 Logan Street, Frankston. Director: Michelle Thomas; Musical Director: Malcom Huddle; Choreographer: Katrina Flaherty. Audition bookings: 0402 197 390. www.peoplesplayhouse.asn.au ■ ARC Theatre: Singin' in the Rain, February 28 at 7.15pm, March 2 at 10.25an, Dance audition March 3, at the Banyule Theatre, Buckingham Drive, Heidelberg. Enquiries: 0410 742 942. ■ Mooroolbark Theatre Company: Fish Out of Water (by Derek Benfield) February 21 at 7.00 pm. Director: Arline Myer. Bookings: 9726 4282 or mooroolbark_theatre_group@ optusnet.com.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): The Merry Widows (by Cenarth Fox), February 25, 26 at 7.30pm. Director: Mel de Bono. Bookings: 9467 1502. ■ Heidelberg Theatre Company: August: Osage County (by Tracy Lotts) February 24, 25 at 36 Turnham Avenue, Rosanna. Director: Joan Moriarty. Audition bookings: 9459 3495. ■ Altona City Theatre: Spring Awakening March 18, 19, 20. More information on www.altonacitytheatre.com.au

■ Geelong Repertory Theatre Company: Arsenic and Old Lace Until February 16. Director: Scott Beaton. Enquiries: info@geelongrep.com.au ■ Williamstown Little Theatre: Talking Heads (by Alan Bennett. Until February 23 at 2 Albert Street, Williamstown. Evening performances 8.15pm, Tues to Sat, 5.00pm Sun. Director: Shirley Sydenham. Tickets: $25/$22. Bookings: 9885 9678. ■ Brighton Theatre Company: The Female of the Species (by Joanna Murray-Smith), February 21 - March 9 at the Clocktower Theatre, Corner Wilson and Carpenter Streets, Brighton. Director: Deborah Fabbro. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 752 126. Email: enquiries@brightontheatre.com.au ■ Mordialloc Theatre Company: The Grand Manner (by A. R. Gurney) Until February 16 at the Shirley Burke Theatre, 64 Parkers Road, Parkdale. Director: Judy Corderoy. Tickets: $24/ $22/$18. Bookings: 9587 5141. ■ The Basin Theatre Company: Murdered to Death (by Peter Gordon) February 15 - March 9 (Thursdays to Saturdays at 8.15pm, Sundays at 2.15pm) at The Basin Theatre, Doongalla Road, The Basin. Director: Don Harwood. Tickets: $25 (incl. complimentary parking, program, pre-show sherries, tea/coffee at interval, wine/fruit juice/supper with cast after the show. Bookings: 1300n784 886 (between 7pm and 9pm) or www.thebasintheatre.org.au ■ Malvern Theatre Company: Death and the Maiden (by Ariel Dorfman) February 22 - March 9 at 29 Burke Road, East Malvern. Director: Kris Weber. Tickets: $20/$18. Bookings: 1300 131552 www.malverntheatre.com.au ■ Strathmore Theatrical Arts Group (STAG): The Merry Wives of Windsor (by William Shakespeare) February 21-23, February 28 - March 2 at 8.00pm, February 24, March 3 at 2.00pm at the Strathmore Community Centre, Cnr Loeman and Napier Streets., Strathmore. Director: Drew Mason. Tickets: $20/$15. Bookings: 9382 6284. www.stagtheatre.org/reservations ■ The 1812 Theatre: The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen's Guild Dramatic Society Murder Mystery at 3-5 Rose Street, Upper Ferntree Gully. Tickets: $25. Bookings: 9758 3964 www.1812theatre.com.au

HAIRSPRAY

● Meet the cast of ARC Theatre’s The 25 Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, playing at the Banyule Theatre, Heidelberg until February 16. Back row, from left: Nicholas Durbridge, Chelsea Tsaparis, Jaclyn DeVincentis, Nathan Slevin and Dominique Hennequin; Front row, from left: Eleanor Horsburgh, Jason Vikse, Josh Gavin and Ashleigh Psaila. Photo: Evan Mulholland ■ ARC Music Theatre is presenting the one act musical comedy, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee until February 16 at the Banyule Theatre, Buckingham Drive, Heidelberg. Directed by Carl Whiteside, the show is the work of award winning lyricist and composers William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin, and tells the hilarious tale of a quirky and unique group of teenagers as they vye for the title of Spelling Bee Champion and succumb to the pressure of competition. Musical direction is by James Mustafa, choreography by Ashleigh Psaila and assistant director is Evan Mulholland. Tickets: $29/$26. $1 from each ticket sold will be donated to the Olivia Newton John Cancer and Wellness Centre Bookings: 0435 062 087, email arc.tickets@gmail.com or visit www.arc-theatre.com for online bookings.

AUDITIONS

■ Dionysus Theatre: Lysistrata (by Aristophanes) April 20, 21 at McLelland College Performing Arts Centre, Belar Avenue, Karingal. Director: Emma Sproule. Enquiries: 9786 8839. ■ Brighton Theatre Company: Picasso at the Lapin Agile (by Steve Martin) March 3 at 6.00pm, March 4 at 7.30pm at Brighton Theatre Company, Corner Wilson and Carpenter Streets, Brighton. Director: Jeff Saliba. Audition Bookings: 0407 851 714. ■ Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company Inc.: Laughter on the 23rd Floor, March 11, 12 at 7.30pm at the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre, 39 Castella Street, Lilydale. Director: Kevin Trask. Audition Bookings: 0417 517 210. ■ Peridot Theatre Inc: One Act Play Season - Play 1, Leap Year, (by Allan Curtis) March 15 at 7.00pm at the Unicorn Theatre, Mt Waverley Secondary College, Lechte Street, Mt Waverley. Director: Robyn Kelly. Audition bookings: 9898 6316.

THE DRESSER

● Cranbourne’s Richard Green is Wilbur Turnblad, Alex Kangur from Pakenham is Tracey Turnblad and Dan Bellis from Berwick plays Edna Turnblad in CPAC’s production of Hairspray, opening on February 23 in Pakenham. Photo: Lee Moulton ■ The Cardinia Performing Arts Company (CPAC) presents Hairspray on February 23, March 1, 2, 8 at 8.00pm, February 24, March 3 at 2.00pm and March 7, 8 at 7.00pm at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham. Tickets: $32, $29, $25. Bookings: 0407 090 354 or email rrene70@hotmail.com

■ Playwright Ronald Harwood was himself dresser to the great Shakespearean actor-manager Donald Wolfit for several years, and although strenuously denying it, Harwood has clearly used this experience in creating The Dresser, being presented at 36 Turnham Ave, Rosanna from February 21-March 9. Directed by Karen Wakeham, the play tells of Sir, whose company is to perform his 277th Lear against the backdrop of a 1940s England reduced to rubble by Hitler’s bombs. He is supported by his faithful dresser Norman, stage manager Madge, and a small troupe of actors, including his long-suffering wife. Evening performances are at 8.00pm, with 2pm matinees on February 24 and March 9. Tickets: $25 Full Price, $22 Concession (not Seniors Card), Groups 10+ $20 per ticket. Bookings: 9457 4117

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Page 66 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013 Melbourne

Observer Lovatts Crossword No 2

Across

Across

Down

Down

1. Full of vitality 6. Took a break 11. Soothes (fears) 15. Protecting 20. Red-rind cheese 21. Actor, Ryan ... (1'4) 22. Solemn promise 23. Solid ground, ... firma 25. Anglican church caretaker 26. Ethics 27. Public persona 29. Mania 32. Hind section 34. Ruler, Genghis ... 36. Innocently 39. Colorado ski resort 41. Alexandria is there 43. Titled ladies 46. Lessened 48. Hair dye 49. Madam (2'2) 51. Hideous monster 52. Replanting with trees 55. Long story 56. Arrests 59. Beginning 61. Moderate, ... down 62. Ancient musical instrument 63. Skirmish 64. Sadder (state) 67. Women's court sport 68. Legitimately 70. Japanese hostess 71. Obtained (funds) 72. Womb 73. Academy Awards 74. News stories 75. Encloses 77. Proclamation 78. Comes in 79. Behaviour 82. Simpler 86. Jewish language 87. Biblical son of Isaac 89. Minor planets 92. Gambling chances 94. Acute anxiety 96. In a frenzied state 98. European defence pact 100. Caravan itinerant 101. At a distance 103. Requirement 105. Gallows rope 106. Oil producers' cartel 108. Contest of honour 111. Nursery rhyme, Three Blind ... 112. Utterly exhausted (4,4) 114. Discouraged 116. Domestic helper 119. Actress, ... Thompson 120. Ukraine capital 121. Belonging to that 123. Writer, ... Blyton 124. Restore to health 125. Spectators 126. Senior citizen 127. Gentlest 130. Typist's complaint (1,1,1) 131. Hollering 135. Scrapes (knee) 138. Dad 139. Metal pen-points 141. Premonitions 144. Coal mine waste 146. Food enhancer (1,1,1) 147. Excessively formal 148. Sense of self 149. Established (foundations) 150. Golfing body (1,1,1) 151. Devil's abode 152. Improvised (4,2) 153. October stone 155. Feed (fire) 157. More orderly 158. Twig shelter 160. Atlantic or Indian 161. Huffs 162. Throw up 163. Reside 165. Even further delayed 166. Famous record label (1,1,1)

167. Argentina's ... Peron 168. Yellowish-brown pigment 169. Rush off 171. Nimble 172. Donor 175. Tribal emblem 176. Religious statue 179. Squirm in pain 180. Crowd brawl 182. Wine, ... spumante 184. West Indian music 185. Pop group, Bee ... 186. Kangaroo pouch 188. Germination pod 189. Gearwheel tooth 190. Sixty minutes 191. Crack army force (1,1,1) 193. US space organisation 194. Deal with 196. Cereal bowl 197. Trimmed of fat 198. Aroma 200. More scrumptious 205. Wrath 207. City roads 210. Gorged oneself 211. Last day of April 212. Amongst 213. Leading 214. Household fuel 216. Spoken exam 218. Hordes 219. Was obliged to pay 220. In so far (as) 224. Political stirrer 227. Adversaries 229. Optic organs 230. Valley 231. Happen 232. Mad Roman emperor 233. Data 235. Remove (tape) from VCR 237. You 239. Cheeky smile 241. Skewered meat 244. Great Bear constellation, ... Major 246. Scenery 249. Leer 252. Straight (route) 254. Charted 256. Scattered 258. Of long duration (3-3) 259. Cavalry spear 260. Vigilantly 263. Short period 264. Synagogue scholars 265. Make untidy (4,2) 267. Huts 270. Administer 271. Slid 272. Win 273. Nuclear agreement (4,3) 274. Small herring 277. Liberated 279. Graven image 281. Distributed (cards) 284. Sinks in middle 286. Ark builder 288. Luxuries 292. Power group 294. In present condition (2,2) 295. Fork spike 298. The Suez ... 300. English tennis champ, Fred ... 301. Gaze 303. Boats' spines 306. Thickly 308. Test run 309. Blemish 311. Chunkier (stew) 314. Disorder, cerebral ... 315. Screen legend, Marilyn ... 316. Finance in advance 317. Honourably 318. Fond of, ... on 319. Nazi government, The Third ... 320. Nothing 321. Peevishness 322. Alcove 323. Moved furtively 324. Bed cover

1. Do breaststroke 2. Lamented 3. Garden entrances 4. Brief 5. 12-months 6. Despoil 7. Nailfile (board) 8. Fasten (bolt) 9. Legendary kingdom, El ... 10. Take up again 11. Nearly 12. Robbery 13. Egg centres 14. Dress ribbons 15. Beef-cut for stock 16. Senseless 17. Disregard alarm clock (3,2) 18. Tick over 19. Elapse (2,2) 24. Glimpse 28. Work team 30. Irish sweater style 31. Identify 33. Weirder 35. Maxims 37. Windmill arm 38. Part of ear 40. Bridge-player's bid (2,6) 42. Spurs 44. Polar 45. University compositions 47. Concur 48. Risked 49. Mortuaries 50. Helping 53. Yacht's mooring cushions 54. Treated badly (3-4) 57. Seabird with large wingspan 58. Fluctuates 60. Cotton tops (1-6) 63. Detective story 65. Porridge flakes 66. Proportional, pro ... 68. Decoy 69. Scottish lake 76. Plane terminal 79. Silent 80. Bare 81. Perfume, ... toilette (3,2) 83. Brisbane suburb & racecourse 84. Internal 85. Decompose 88. First animals in dictionary 90. Shade of colour 91. Frosted (biscuits) 93. Tottering 95. Drawing pin 97. Incessantly (2,3,2) 99. Word formed from initials 100. Pleased 102. Dummy pass 104. Waned 107. Danger 109. Author, ... Bronte 110. Bullets 111. Non-glossy 113. Powerful light (3,4) 115. Elevate in rank 117. Spicy lentil dish 118. Futile (attempt) 121. Tel Aviv native 122. Side benefit (4-3) 127. Revolving tray, lazy ... 128. Froths 129. Greatest 132. House seller (6,5) 133. Dormant 134. Rainwater channel 135. Least rough 136. Lack of awareness 137. Most swift 138. Blazed trail 140. Deliverance 141. Vehicle distance gauges

142. Capture spirit of 143. British military academy 145. Collects 151. Sack material 154. Spanish friend 156. Addicts 159. Conger or moray 164. Bustle 169. Battle 170. Large pitchers 173. Prickling 174. Baby birds of prey 177. Desist 178. Approaches 181. Foolish 183. Melting 187. Firebugs 192. Firmly securing 195. Standard 199. Inventor 201. Weaponry 202. Carry-on (2-2) 203. All set 204. Charmer, ... fatale 206. Say 207. Employees 208. Deciduous trees 209. London underground 213. Bump into 215. Prosecutor 217. Appearance 221. Take a nap 222. America, ... Sam 223. Chile's tip, Cape ... 224. Singer's solo 225. Narrow bay 226. Quarrel 228. Swedish tennis ace (5,4) 234. Views 236. Bike rider 238. Radio hobbyist 240. Charged particle 242. UK country 243. Speak to 245. Abating 247. Changed suitably 248. Spirit medium 250. Mouth cosmetic 251. Commercials 253. Chore 255. Discontinued 257. Refuses to (3,1) 258. Your school, ... mater 261. Consumable 262. Mood 265. Intimidate 266. Damascus is there 268. Uplift 269. Vendor 275. Peel (apple) 276. Snakes 278. Make bigger 280. Climb down 282. Compass point 283. Exist 285. Carbonated drink 287. ... & nail 289. Euphoric drugs 290. Topped with breadcrumbs, au ... 291. Sprites 292. Called (of donkey) 293. Part of shoe 296. Ward off 297. Stockings fibre 299. Not anybody (2-3) 302. Stun 304. Lodge deeply 305. Store for future use (3,2) 306. Fall 307. Subsequent 308. Anti-flood embankment 310. Door handle 312. ... of Capri 313. Peruse

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Page 68 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport Racing Briefs

Mare airborne ■ Longlea trainer John McDermott has 4-Y-0 Art Major/Paris Avenue mare Whata Avenue absolutely airborne at present, bringing up her sixth victory when greeting the judge in the VHRSC Provincial Cup (1st Heat) for C1 class over 2190 metres. Taking a mare’s concession, Whata Avenue coming off an eye catching second in the recent Central Victorian Pacing Championship possied one/one for Chris Alford, with Dobop leading from gate two inside her. Not happy with the tempo, Alford eased Whata Avenue around My Hard Copy to park in the open for the final circuit and always travelling sweetly, surged clear on turning to record an easy 5.8 metre victory in 1-58.7 over My Hard Copy who had every opportunity to run her down. Matt Higgins' honest gelding Dynamite Dude (three back the markers) used the sprint lane to finish third.

Moved away from markers ■ Kialla trainer Kevin Mark combined with Bendigo based Haydon Gray to land the Frank Dimetz Jewellers Trotters Handicap for T0 or better class over 2190 metres with 7-Y-0 Dr Ronerail/ Sunny Folly gelding Doctor Sam. Slowly away from 10 metres, Doctor Sam settled at the tail of the field with the exception of both Rubon Brown and Fiery Chip who were both tailed off after bad beginnings. Taken wide on straightening, Doctor Sam motored to the wire to blouse Salute The Wind along the sprint lane from three back the markers in a rate of 2-06.8, with Robbie Zuve third after trailing the weakening leader Starlight Lee and moving away from the markers on the final bend.

Victory at Charlton ■ Moama's Mal Whiteford was in the winners stall at Charlton on Wednesday when Artesian/Kamwood Toy filly Kamwood Dawn scored a lucky victory in the Choice Hotels 3-Y-0 Pace over 1609 metres. Settling on the back of the leader Idle Hands inside her for a short time, Kamwood Dawn moved to enjoy a sweet trip one/one trailing the heavily supported Gollahman from the Lake Boga stable of Paul Gadsden on debut. When Gollahman took care of the pacemaker approaching the home turn he looked all over a winner, but galloped on the bend when about to stride clear. This enabled Kamwood Dawn (three wide) to race to the front on straightening and win by 7.1 metres in a rate of 1-57.2 from Par Three (three back the markers after a bad beginning) and Helens In Paradise (one/one).

Peter’s luck running hot ■ Peter Salathiel's luck is running hot at present, chalking up a stable double at Charlton with Singed taking the House To Home Decorating 3-Y-0 Pace over 1609 metres and Beau Dandy the Charlton 150th Anniversary April 1st Pace for C0 class over 2100 metres. Bettors Delight/Atomic Fusion gelding Singed from gate two enjoyed a nice trip trailing the pacemaker Evening Star Lombo inside him, before using the sprint lane to gain the day in advance of a death-seating Mantar and Jaspers Cullen which was three wide from the bell. The mile rate 1-59.3. Beau Dandy a 4-Y-0 Presidential Ball/Shes High Maintenance gelding, led throughout from gate four, easily accounting for the hot favourite Ben Cartwright which shadowed him in a rate of 1-57.4. In The Frame Lombo finished third after trailing the winner from the pole.

Horses To Follow ■ Stunning Jasper, Tuscan Breeze, Wheatsheaf Avaball, Hugh, Johnny Armbrose, Star Style, Drunken Desire, Sarum Knight, Christian World, Pass It To Billy.

VETERAN TAKES HONOURS ■ Veteran Meltonian Graeme Lang took the honours at the Kilmore harness meeting held on Monday February 4, taking both trotting events on the program - the Kilmore Country Music Festival 3Y-0 Trotters Handicap over 2150 metres with Steal A Sixpence, and the Kings Insurance Brokers Trotters Mobile (1st Heat) for T1 & T2 class over 2180 metres with Katmandonny. Steal A Sixpence, a gelded son of Safely Kept and Half A Sixpence, has been in superb form since resuming and was a pronounced $1.50 favourite. Beginning brilliantly from 10 metres, Save A Sixpence surged to the front shortly after the start and allowed to bowl for Gavin Lang, opened up a commanding lead. When last season's Redwood winner Sun Of Sonoko after making a long sustained run from near last to issue a challenge on the home turn, Steal A Sixpence looked to be in trouble, however Son Of Sonoko galloped under pressure leaving him a ‘mile’ ahead of his rivals, coasting to the wire 32.1 metres in advance of Jaden Gil (three back the markers) and Chevals Racer from a long way back in a rate of 2-06.2. Steal A Sixpence is a full brother to open class performer Save A Sixpence, a winner of 21 races to date.

Ability-plus ■ Four-year-old Sundon/ Make Mine Candy gelding Katmandonny has always shown plenty of ability since first gracing the track and chalked up his fifth victory in 19 outings. Again with Gavin Lang in the sulky, Katmandonny from gate four was given the run of the race trailing the favourite Kyvalley Rap outside him trained and driven by Chris Lang. Easing away from the markers on turning, Katmandonny was too strong at the finish, scoring by a head untouched over Kyvalley Rap, with Sir Pegasus off a three wide trail last lap third. The mile rate 2-03.7.

4th victory ■ Lara-based owner/ trainer Shaun Kittel has done a remarkable job with 8-Y-0 Safe And Sound/ Kalmana Lane gelding Keeper Of The Fire which was claimed from a race at Geelong in November last year, notching up his fourth victory (three for

Baker’s Delight

Harness Racing

This Week’s Meetings ■ Wednesday - Horsham/Geelong, ■ Thursday - Cranbourne/Bendigo, ■ Friday - St Arnaud @ Melton, ■ Saturday - Melton, ■ Sunday - Mooroopna @ Shepparton, ■ Monday - Stawell, ■ Tuesday - Geelong. Melbourne

Observer

len-baker@ bigpond.com

with Len Baker

Shaun) in 120 outings. The race in question was the Profit Sense Accounting Claiming Pace for C0 to C4 class over 2180 metres and Keeper Of The Fire driven by regular reinsman Michael Bellman raced in the open throughout from gate five, putting pay to the leader Rare Surprise in the final circuit to register a 9.6 metre victory over Eliminator (three wide last lap) from four back in the moving line and You Lazy Boy from last after trailing the runner-up home. The mile rate 2-01.3.

At Wang. ■ Popular trainer Michael Hayes domiciled on the border of Avenel and Nagambie, snared the Warby Street Butchery Wangaratta Pace for C0 class over 1690 metres at the Wangaratta HRC fixture held at Shepparton on Tuesday with Live Or Die/Forest Drive gelding Forbidden Forest. Driven by Daniel Jack, Forbidden Forest starting from the extreme draw settled five back in the moving line, with Son Of Julie (gate two) leading. Sent forward three wide solo in the final circuit, Forbidden Forest was meritorious in his victory as he kept on giving to defeat the roughie Kanyapella Hanover which trailed the pacemaker gaining a late split in the shadows of the post, with Son Of Julia holding down third. The mile rate 1-59.5.

Surged clear ■ Doreen owner/trainer John Yeomans and cotrainer Shane Gallagher have 4-Y-0 Life Sign/Red Hot Rita going great guns at present, bringing up two wins in succession (eight overall) by taking the Sydney Hotel Wangaratta Pace for C2 & C3 class over 2190 metres in 1-59.9. Again with Gavin

Lang in the sulky, Just Live Life was sent forward from outside the front line to park outside the poleline leader My Flying Scott and control the race. Surging clear on the home turn, Just Live Life registered a 3.9 metre victory untouched in advance of Ezee Duzit Lombo and Our Flash Of Fire who followed the runner up home from near last.

Trapped ■ Goornong trainer/ driver Peter Salathiel landed the McGregor Machinery Wangaratta 3-Y-0 Pace over 1690 metres at the Wangaratta meeting with Village Jasper/Charleze Theron filly Charli Springfield. Leading out from the pole, Charli Springfield was eased to take a trail on Daniel Jack's Priceless Gem (gate three) who was trapped three wide with the favourire Rogers Passion (gate two) in the centre. Not wanting to use the sprint lane, Salathiel eased Charli Springfield away from the markers to move along side Priceless Gem on turning and finished best to score by 1.7 metres in a slick 1-57 mile rate. Rogers Passion battled on gamely to finish third.

Too strong ■ Tallygaroopna's Joe Anderson snared the Wangaratta Stockfoods & Farm Supplies Pace for C0 class over 1690 metres with 4-Y-0 Life Sign/ Spring Walton mare Hoppy Joe in a rate of 200.7. Driven by David Moran, Hoppy Joe from gate five raced in the open throughout, proving too strong for the well backed Wagga visitor Gesturestar (one/two - three wide last lap) and Trottin Rossco which followed the runner-up all of the way. - Len Baker

Failed to get clear ■ Ardmona trainer Doc Wilson and partner Donna Castles landed the Crameri Export Quality Chaff Pacers Handicap for C4 or better class over 2190 metres at Maryborough on Thursday with 8-Y-0 Justanotherpoorboy/Flight Of Freedom entire Flash Of Freedom. Beginning brilliantly as he usually does, Flash Of Freedom was given an easy time at the head of affairs and looked the winner a long way out especially as John Justice aboard the red-hot $1.40 favourite Tyler Bromac (one/one) didn't pull out in the last lap as Wheatsheaf Avaball was moving forward three wide. Holding a margin to the wire, Flash Of Freedom registered his 11th victory in 123 outings, defeating Stephs Caesar which trailed in a rate of 2-02.5, with Wheatsheaf Avaball close up in third place. Tyler Bromac went to the line without ever getting clear.

Husband, wife win ■ Long Forest husband and wife - Andy and Kate Gath were successful with improving Art Major/ Charisma Lombo 4-Y-0 gelding All About Art in the Next Meeting 13th February Pace for C0 class over 1609 metres at Geelong on Wednesday. Given a lovely trip from gate two trailing the polemark leader Our Horizon inside him, Kate not bothering to utilise the sprint lane, eased All About Art to the outside on the home turn and he ran home strongly to blouse the leader in 1-59.6. Rockstar Ruler ran on late from well back to finish third. Formerly trained in NSW, All About Art has fronted the starter on 21 occasions for four wins.

Victors at Maryborough ■ Maree and John Caldow were winners at Maryborough on Thursday, when 4-Y-0 Western Terror/Miss Saxony mare Rhinestone Cowgirl snared the Central Goldfields Shire Vicbred Pace for C0 class over 2190 metres. Starting solo on the second line, Rhinestone Cowgirl possied four back in the moving line following the hot favourite Saabrina Miss (gate two), with Itsfamouslevity leading from gate six. When ChrisAlford set Saabrina Miss alight three wide in the final circuit to lead prior to the home turn, Rhinestone Cowgirl immediately latched to her back for a lovely ride home. In a two horse war all the way up the running, Rhinestone Cowgirl prevailed by a nose in 2-00.2, with Pacquiao (one/one) 12.7 metres away in third place.

Well deserved honour ■ Bacchus Marsh duo Alan and Amy Tubbs scored a well deserved victory with 5-Y-0 Aces N Sevens/ Alesco gelding Cut For An Ace in the 1st Heat of the VHRSC Metropolitan Cup for C6 or better class over 2190 metres at Maryborough. Taken off the gate from outside the front row, Cut For An Ace settled at the tail of the field with the exception of Shnappy which galloped away inside him. Sent forward racing for the bell to park outside the pacemaker Spot Nine, Cut For An Ace gained the upper hand on the final bend, registering a 4.1 metre victory over Christian World (three wide on turning after trailing the leader), with Spot Nine a game third after being taken on mercifully by Balance Point for the first 200 metres. The mile rate 156.9.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013 - Page 69

Melbourne

Observer Victorian Sport

QUEEN SPOT ON Observer Racing

● Crack A Roadie Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754

On the sick list ■ I was sorry to hear that a good friend of mine, former top VFL umpire, Ray Sleeth, is not 100 per cent after suffering a slight stroke. I was having a chat to a few of his friends he works part-time with at Caulfield in Don, Max and Frank, who told they had been to see and take him out for lunch, but he was coming good slowly. That's great news as he is one of nicest guys in the business and was one of the best football umpires produced here in Victoria. Another who is not very well according to the boys from Caulfield again, is former trainer,

Frank King, is battling a bit at the moment. His lovely wife Jeannie had to put Frank into a nursing home some time back, but his health isn't the best. Frank is well known in racing circles not only as a horse trainer, but a master of top apprentices such, as Darren Gauci, Dale Short and Stan Aitken, just to mention a few. We wish Frank and the lovely Jeannie all the very best. Our prayers are with you. Likewise to Ray and his family. - Ted Ryan

FEMME FATALE

■ Another ‘femme Fatele’, Blue Diamond Stakes favourite Miracles of Life is ticking along nicely in her quest to win at Caulfield on February 23. Three starts for three absolutely brilliant wins she will go around about a two-toone chance according to leading betting agency Betstar. It's great to see that the stable has stuck with her usual rider, young South Australian . Lauren Stojakovic, with a name similar to the World Tennis champion, Novak Jokavic, she could be on the trail to a big triumph. The stable had been inundated with calls from all the leading hoops in the country wanting to ride the flying filly, so it's a credit to them that they have stuck with the 29year-old rider. Connections paid a late entry fee of $55,000 for the classy youngster to run in the classic. In winning at her first start around the tricky Caulfield circuit, she ran a second faster quicker than the colts. Lauren's ride was first-class allowing

Miracles of Life to settle in fifth spot with cover. She never panicked, and waited until well into the straight to pull her out, and did she move it. Miracles of Life showed a brilliant turn of foot to blitz them. Others with chances are the Peter Snowden two, in Guelph, a brilliant winner in Sydney, and Metastasio, who has taken all before her being unbeaten. The Stephen Theodore Crack A Roadie, is smart, and there has been a flood of money for one of Gait Waterhouse's in Marseille Roulette. If there is a chink in Miracles of Life's resume, she has been no further than 1050 metres when she won at her second start in South Australia. However it is hard to see past her. Of the colts I like Crack a Roadie, who shows plenty of potential, especially with a step up to the 1200 metres. Another colt from the Peter Moody barn is Thermal Current who ran a cracker at Caulfield in a Blue Diamond Preview, after nearly falling at the turn.

■ World champion sprinter Black Caviar is spot on to win her third Lightning Stakes coming up at Flemington on Saturday (Feb. 16). The great mare who has strung together 22 straight wins, has done everything asked of, and more, since returning to Peter Moody's stables at Caulfield. I saw her gallop at Caulfield and without doubt, she has got bigger and it's not weight, it is increased muscle. Black Caviar worked brilliantly, starting off near the 2000 metre mark, cantering down to the 800 metre mark, where her regular rider Luke Nolen applied a bit more pressure and the daughter of Bel Esprit started to get into her rhythm, and ran a brilliant half-mile around the 44-second mark for the final journey. When you consider that 15 seconds is even time for each 200 metres, her gallop under a hold was exceptional running approximately 11 seconds to each 200. There is certainly not a horse in Australia, let alone the world, that can beat her on times alone. On top of this she

Ted Ryan

● Metastasio Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754

Showbiz Extra ■ From Page 64

Top 10 Lists EMPIRE OF THE SUN [1987/War/Drama/ Christian Bale, John Malkovich]. GRAND HOTEL [1932/Classic/Drama/Greta Garbo, John Barrymore, Joan Crawford]. NEW RELEASE TELEVISION, DOCUMENTARY AND MUSIC DVD HIGHLIGHTS: THE ADVENTURES OF MERLIN: Series 5. PARKS AND RECREATION: Season 4. PARKS AND RECREATION: Seasons 1 - 4. I JUST WANT MY PANTS BACK: Season One. ANDRE RIEU - Happy Birthday! A Celebration of 25 Years of the Johann Strauss Orchestra.

not only has a big body weighing in something like 600 kilos, but has a great heart and a very strong constitution. In two words, excuse the pun she's ‘A FREAK’. I can vividly recalling Hall Of Fame trainer, Lee Freedman, saying after his great mare Makybe Diva, won her third successive Melbourne Cup, that a great majority of us there that day, would never see it again in our lifetime. Now I feel you can add the mighty Black

Caviar to that list. You just have to be at Flemington to see the champion. Get there early and wander down to the stabling area and have a good look at her she is massive in both looks and ability. Would you believe that she is heavier than most stallions? Depending she pulls up OK, she may run in the Newmarket at Flemington next month, but she may have to carry the big weight of 61.5 kilos, but she can do it.

Katelyn Mallyon coming along nicely

● Kate Mallyon Photo by SLICKPIX, phone 9354 5754

■ On the good side of the ledger, comes news that popular young lady rider, Katelyn Mallyon, is coming along nicely for her return to race riding. She recently returned to the saddle at Bendigo. Katelyn survived a horrifying fall at Flemington last May, and it is great that she is on the comeback trail. It was only recently that Michelle Payne made yet another return to race riding after yet another fall and is coming along nicely.

TOP BLU-RAY RENTAL & SELLERS: 1. THE EXPENDABLES 2 [Action/Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Bruce Willis]. 2. THE DARK KNIGHT RISES [Action/Crime/ Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Tom Hardy]. 3. LOOPER [Action/Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis, Emily Blunt]. 4. BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD [Drama/Dwight Henry, Quvenzhane Wallis]. 5. HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3D + 2D Blu Ray [Animated/Comedy]. 6. THE WORDS [Drama/Bradley Cooper, Jeremy Irons]. 7. TED: Extended Edition [Comedy/Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane]. 8. BRAVE 3D + 2D Blu-ray [Family/Animated/Adventure/Kelly MacDonald, Billy Connolly]. 9. ICE AGE 4: CONTINENTIAL DRIFT 3D [Animated/Comedy/Ray Romano, Denis Leary]. 10. MADAGASCAR 3: Europe's Most Wanted [Family/Animated]. Also: Mental, The Possession, The Watch, Arbitrage, House at the End of the Street, Resident Evil: Retribution 3D + 2D, Lockout, Moonrise Kingdom, Avatar 3D+DVD, Finding Nemo 3D. NEW RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS ON BLU-RAY THIS WEEK: KILLING THEM SOFTLY [Crime/Drama/Brad Pitt, Ray Liotta, James Gandolfini]. LAWLESS [Drama/Tom Hardy, Shia LaBeouf, Jessica Chastain, Guy Pearce]. THE ORANGES [Comedy/Catherine Keener, Hugh Laurie]. MRS. MINIVER [1942/Classic/Drama/Greer Garson, Walter Pidgeon]. A STAR IS BORN [1954/Classic/Drama/Judy Garland, James Mason, Jack Carson]. THE POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE [1946/Classic/Drama/Lana Turner, John Garfield]. THE JAZZ SINGER [1927/Classic/Drama/Al Jolson]. EMPIRE OF THE SUN [1987/War/Drama/ Christian Bale, John Malkovich]. NIKITA: The Complete Second Season. SHAMELESS: The Complete Second Season. ANDRE RIEU - Happy Birthday! A Celebration of 25 Years of the Johann Strauss Orchestra. - James Sherlock

Sulky Snippets Extra ■ Four year old Life Sign/Mirra Mirra mare Fairest One Youare trained in Melton by Geoff Walker was an easy victor of the VHRSC Provincial Cup (3rd Heat) for C1 class over 2190 metres at Maryborough. Driven by Jodi Quinlan, Fairest One Youare (gate four) was handed the lead on a platter by Our Ponzi inside her shortly after the start, before toying with her rivals in defeating Umi which shadowed her for most of the trip and Our Ponzi in a rate of 2-02.3.

Page 70 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013

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Melbourne Observer

Classifieds incorporating ‘Melbourne Advertiser’, ‘Melbourne Trader’, ‘Melbourne Homemaker’ and ‘Victorian Rural News’

Phone: (03) 9439 7070. Fax: (03) 9431 6427

Melbourne

Observer

Victoria’s Independent Newspaper First Published September 14, 1969 Every Wednesday

Contact Us Office: 30 Glen Gully Rd, Eltham, Vic 3095 Postal: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic. 3095 Phone: +61 3 9439 7070 Fax: +61 3 9431 6247 Web: www.MelbourneObserver.com.au E-Mail: Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Contact Us Publisher and Editor: Ash Long Media Director: Fleur Long Features Editor: Peter Mac Columnists: Len Baker, Harry Beitzel, Matt Bissett-Johnson, Sue Deenim (photographer), David Ellis, Rob Foenander, Christina La Cross, Julie Houghton, Yvonne Lawrence, Nick Le Souef, Mike McColl Jones, John Pasquarelli, Mark Richardson, Di Rolle, Aaron Rourke, Ted Ryan, Jim Sherlock, Cheryl Threadgold, Kevin Trask, Veritas Distribution: Sam Fiorini, phone 9482 1145

Distribution STATE EDITION: Available weekly at approx. 400 newsagents across the Melbourne metropolitan area, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast, and Victorian regional centres. Recommended retail price: $2.95. If your local newsagent does not currently stock the Melbourne Observer, you can place a weekly order with them.Use their ‘putaway’ service. Newsagents contact: All Day Distribution Pty Ltd, 1st Floor, 600 Nicholson St, North Fitzroy, Vic. 3068. Phone: (03) 9482 1145. Fax: (03) 9482 2962. Distribution Manager: Sam Fiorini.

Mail Subscriptions You can have your own copy of the Melbourne Observer delivered to your letterbox by Australia Post. We dispatch hundreds of copies of the Melbourne Observer to mail subscribers every Tuesday afternoon. Subscription price for 45 copies is $213.75, pre-paid, to anywhere in Australia. Overseas rates available on application. Pay by Credit Card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express Organise your mail subscription: BY PHONE: 1-800 231 311 BY FAX: 1-800 231 312 E-MAIL: editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au BY POST: PO Box 1278, Research, Vic. 3095. Pay by Cheque, Money Order or Credit Card.

Available Across The World MELBOURNE OBSERVER ONLINE 2.1 MILLION HITS ANNUALLY ON THE WEB: www.MelbourneObserver.com.au You can read our paper free on the Internet. Contact details for all our advertisers are also available at our website.

Back Copies BACK COPIES - ARCHIVES Back Copies for 2012-13 editions of the Melbourne Observer are all available at our website. Back copies for 1969-89, 2002-11 may be inspected by appointment at the State Library of Victoria, 328 Swanston St, Melbourne.

Independently Owned and Operated The Melbourne Observer is printed by Streamline Press, 155 Johnston St, Fitzroy, for the publisher, Ash Long, for Local Media Pty Ltd, ABN 67 096 680 063, of the registered office, 30 Glen Gully Road, Eltham, Distributed by All Day Distribution. Responsibility for election and referendum comment is accepted by the Editor, Ash Long. Copyright © 2013, Local Media Pty Ltd (ACN 096 680 063).

VICTORIAN STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Reach a readership across Victoria with a Classified Ad in the Melbourne Observer, published every Wednesday. Available at newsagents for just $2.95 per copy, and free online at www.melbourneobserver.com.au ● FREE ADS: Private/non-commercial parties can sell their items with a free 40-word Classified Ad in the Melbourne Observer. We publish your ‘For Sale’ or ‘What’s On’ ad for up to four weeks, without any charge. Simply lodge the coupon (below) by posting it to Free Ads, PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. Or complete the Free Ads form at www.MelbourneObserver.com.au No Free Ads will be accepted by phone. ● LINE ADS: Paid ads are available for a minimum weekly charge of $40 for 40 words, than $1 per word thereafter. All paid ads are to be pre-paid by Credit Card (V, M, AE). Phone your paid ad by 5pm Mondays to (03) 9439 7070. Price includes 10% GST.

SEEKING

SEEKING MARGOT PICKERING Mother of Simone Marie, relative would like contact. - ACEE, (03) 9310 3752

FOR SALE A GIFT to last a year! A subscription to the Melbourne Observer gives a weekly reminder to your friend or family member that you care. It enables people living elsewhere to keep in touch. $213.75 for 45 editions to any letterbox in Australia. Phone 1-800 231 311. FI★ _____________________________________________________

AUDI 2013 A3 Convertible APTFSI Ambition MY13. White colour, black interior. Quicksale. Car won in rafle. 2 lt. turbo. TFSI-Tronic with S-Line sports pack. 18-inch alloy wheels. Dealer’s valuation: $74,000 on the road. New. Only driven home and locked up in garage. Top of the range. Reg: ZLA-070. $59,999. 0410 50 4445.F _____________________________________________________

PRIVATE ADVERTISERS: Sell as many times as you like for No Cost Ever with Free Ads in the Melbourne Observer. We run your Free Ad for up to four weeks, without charge. Lodge the form (below) by mail, or complete the form at www.melbourne observer.com.au No Free Ads will be accepted by phone FI★ _____________________________________________________

SUBSCRIPTIONS. Have the Melbourne Observer newspaper delivered to any letterbox in Australia. $213.75 for 45 editions. Pay by Credit Card (V, M, AE) by phoning 1-800 231 311. Or post Cheque/Money Order to PO Box 1278, Research, Vic 3095. FI★ _____________________________________________________

THE ONLINE edition of the Melbourne Observer extends readership to those who live outside the print distribution regions. Advertise your business. Phone our Advisors on 1-800 231 311. FI★ _____________________________________________________

Phone your ad through on 1-800 231 311

● DISPLAY ADS: $15 per column centimetre, pre-paid by Credit Card (V, M, AE). Full-colour may be arranged, where available, for display advertisements. Phone your display ad by 5pm Mondays to (03) 9439 7070. ● PLEASE NOTE: Local Media Pty Ltd (publishers of the Melbourne Observer) reserves the right to alter or omit advertisements and whilst every care is exercised, is not responsible for errors, misclassification, non-insertion. No allowance will be made for errors unless attention is drawn to them by 5pm Thursday, on the day following publication. No responsibility is accepted for the correctness or otherwise of advertisements lodged by telephone. ● MOTOR VEHICLE ADVERTISEMENTS: Under Victorian law, all motor car advertisements must include an identifying registration number, or in the case of unregistered vehicles, the ad must include engine/chassis numbers.

BUSINESS

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

WORK OPPORTUNITIES

Account Manager

GEL PRODUCTS

GENERAL

QUEENSLAND

GEL WORKS. PO Box 2064, Boronia Park, NSW 2111. Phone: (02) 9879 4979. Fax: (02) 9817 0650. EMail: sales@office. gelworks.com.au FI★

GROUP TRAVEL MARKETING. PO Box 8373, Carrum Downs, Vic 3201. Phone: (03) 9782 0367. Fax: (03) 9782 867. Contact: Trevor. FI★

MEDIC TECHNOLOGY

QUEENSLAND

COOLUM BAYWATCH. Coolum Esplanade. 1768 David Low Way, Coolum Beach, Qld 4573. Phone: (07) 546 5500. Fax: (07) 5446 4455. Contact: Elaine. Web: www.coolum baywatch.com E-Mail: info@columbaywatch.com FI★

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MEDIC TECHNOLOGY. PO Box 1676, Melville South, WA 6156. Phone: 1-300 764 117. Fax: (08) 3438 1565. Contact: Michael.FI★

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PET FOOD TUCKER TUB PET FOOD. PO Box 336, Broadford, Vic 3658. Phone: 0418 575 561. Contact: Rudi Spiteri. FI★ _____________________________________________________

PHARMACY MELBOURNE BOULEVARD PHARMACY HEALTH FOODS. Shop 5, 401 St Kilda Rd, Melbourme, Vic 3004. Phone: (03) 9866 1284. E-Mail: naturopath,mbp@ live.com.au FI★

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RADIO RADIO ADVERTISING. Looking for low cost, effective Radio Advertising? Try Melbourne's Golden Days Radio 95.7 FM. Call sponsorship Manager, Alex Hehr on 9572 1466, for a media pack goldendaysradio.com FI★

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CAIRNS. Grosvenor

In Cairns. 186-18 Mcleod St, Cairns, Qld 4870. Phone: (07) 4031 858. Fax: (07) 4031 8533. Contact: Brian Sweetman, Manager. FI★ _____________________________________________________

FULL-TIME OR PART-TIME

Local Media Pty Ltd, publishers of the Melbourne Observer, seeks to appoint am experienced sales person for this work-fromhome position. You will be an enthusiastic self-motivated sales professional - with a dynamic approach and account management skills. Attention to detail vital. All applications will be treated as strictly confidential Contact us for an information package to be sent to you. Forward your resumé to: editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

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THE ONLINE edition of the Melbourne Observer extends readership to those who live outside the print distribution regions. Advertise your business. Phone our Advisors on 1-800 231 311. FI★ _____________________________________________________

Melbourne

Observer

Free Ads Deadline: 5pm Mondays

You can advertise FREE. No fees, no commissions. FREE ADS are available for private/non-commercial advertisements, published at the discretion of the Editor. ☛ MAIL to: FREE ADS, PO Box 1278, Research, 3095 ☛ FAX FREE ADS to: (03) 9431 6247. Use plain paper ☛ E-MAIL: editor@melbourneobserver.com.au ☛ USE the FREE ADS form at melbourneobserver.com.au

NO PHONE-IN SERVICE FOR FREE ADS

FREE 40-WORD AD WORTH $40

Complete this coupon, one word per square, BLOCK LETTERS

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VIDEO PRODUCTION ADELE VIDEO PRODUCTION. PO Box 120, Ballan, Vic 3342. Phone: (03) 5368 1378. Contact: Kerry. Web: www.videoproduction.com.au E-Mail: info@video production.com.au. FI★

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WHAT’S ON CRAIGIEBURN ART GROUP. 23rd Annual Art Exhibition. Sa.-Sun., Feb. 23-24. 10am-5pm. At Leisure Centre Function Rooms, Craigieburn Rd West, Free entry. Special effort for Craigieburn SES. Enquiries: Betty Maher, 9308 1657. F-H★

REG No (FOR CARS) CONDITION:

PRICE:

SUBURB:

PHONE:

DETAILS BELOW NOT FOR PUBLICATION

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WHITTLESEA COMMUNITY MARKET. Sat., Feb. 16. 8am-1pm. 3rd Saturday each month. Whittlesea Showgrounds, Yea Rd. Mel 246 H8. Sites from $20. Enquiries: 0419 357 395. Arts, crafts, plantys, clothes, food and more. Casual sites available.

Name: ...................................................................................................... Street Address: ............................................................................................. .............................................. Phone: ........................................................

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, February 13, 2013 - Page 71

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