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● Patti and Bert Newton this week at the opening of Eat, Pray, Laugh

BERT JOINS ANNIE CAST

LATEST MELB. GOSSIP

■ Bert Newton last night hit the stage as US President Franklin D Roosevelt in the musical Annie.

He replaced Alan Jones, who is travelling to London to broadcast his radio program from the Olympics.

The Melbourne season of Annie, at the Regent Theatre, concludes on August 12. Michael Cormick takes the role as Daddy Warbucks from August 7. The show will play in Perth for five weeks from August 24.

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■ A new musical comedy show, More Sex Please We’re Seniors, written by JohnMichael Howson, will be staged at the Comedy Theatre from late October. It will star Jane Clifton, Tracy Harvey, Michael Veitch, Mark Mitchell and Matt Quartermaine. More details on Page 51.

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Page 2 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012 - Page 3

Showbiz Review

by Ash Long

It’s All About You!

Melbourne

TIME TO HANG UP THE FROCK Observer BARRY, YOU’VE HAD A GOOD RUN In This 68-Page Edition

■ One the unwritten rules in Melbourne media is not to criticise home-grown sons Barry Humphries or Bert Newton in print.

If News Limited has a bad news story about Bert or his family, they will often run the report first with a Sydney Daily Telegraph byline, so an out-of-towner can be blamed.

In the case of 78-year-old Barry Humphries, he has been clever enough to employ the overworked term ‘farewell tour’ for his 19 shows at Her Majesty’s Theatre until August 3. It gives him a ‘get out of jail’ card for a show that is dated, and packed with recycled ‘encore’ material.

And, of course, the ‘farewell’ element has attracted a loyal Melbourne audience. Age critic Cameron Woodhead calls the show “brilliant”. 3AW’s Donna Demaio gushes.

Michael Ward of the Herald Sun says Humphries is at his “triumphant best”.

Even Derryn Hinch says the adoring audience was “mightily entertained”. Derryn kindly labels Humphries as a “theatrical genius”. Perhaps when Hinch was transplanted a new liver, they gave him a fresh gall bladder too.

Humphries opened his latest show on Thursday, with The Maj proudly displaying the ‘Sorry, House Full’ sign in Exhibition St. And many of the usual Melbourne opening night crowd was not in attendance.

Humphries and The Dainty Organisation rightly saw no need to splash an unnecessary dollar on food, drinks and complimentary tickets on media hangers-on.

The show begins with Humphries character number 1, Sir Leslie Colin Patterson, starring as a ‘celebrity chef’ at his own backyard barbecue - liberally punctuated with fart gags and racist taunts (Asian people were addressed as ‘Powerpoints’).

If any other artist were to use such language or insulting words, they would be prosecuted. Instead, Humphries has been rewarded with an Order of Australia honour, a CBE, and an honorary doctorate in laws. Even politically-correct Government has irony!

Humphries uses his characters in the same way a ventriloquist uses the dummy. He can retain his conservative persona, yet the characters can deliver acid language and even thinly-disguised hate. The apologists mask it with the label of ‘satire’.

There certainly may be a roar of applause from 19 sell-out Melbourne audiences, each of 1000 people (mostly $99-$199 each), but there was quite some reservation too.

★★★ (6/10) Eat Pray Laugh Barry Humphries Until August 3 Her Majesty’s Theatre Opening night guests: Brian Nankervis, Carrie Bickmore, John-Michael Howson, Rhonda Burchmore, Derryn Hinch, Daryl Somers, Geoffrey Rush, Jeanne Pratt, Frank van Straten, Mike Walsh.

● Dame Edna Everage, as played

by Barry Humphries in Eat Pray Laugh

● Humphries as ‘Sir Les Patterson’ “Australian's humour and self perception have changed and his/her's hasn't. Time to hang up the frock; it's been a good run,” said Melbourne theatre identity John Parker.

A prominent Melbourne businesswoman confided at intermission that she was not comfortable with the racist slurs, and was unsure about returning to the theatre for the second half.

In the first half, Humphries introduced Les Patterson’s brother, Gerard, a priest. Cue the Catholic jokes from Humphries’s pen - honed at Camberwell Grammar, Melbourne Grammar and the University of Melbourne.

Indeed, Humphries’s pen is sharp. He uses

Melbourne specifics. A park in Glen Iris becomes the Eric Raven Reserve. A toy shop is named as Tim The Toyman in Regent Place. A lesbian cabaret is located in High Street, Northcote.

Even a faux review of the show is attributed to the long out-of-print Camberwell Free Press.

The character of Sandy Stone, ‘a returned man’, reflects the innocence of a Melbourne long since gone. Sandy laments that there may now not be a single Australian-born resident of Estelle St, Glen Iris.

The show drips with biting specifics: Gina Rinehart, news from the Herald Sun of that day, plus Edna Everage’s well-rehearsed ad libs.

All that notwithstanding, Edna Everage struggled on opening night with his audience participants. Even the Dame looked to the audience, saying “I am going to wrestle victory, from the jaws of defeat.”

Derryn Hinch remarked: “Dame Edna is wicked. At times evil. Especially when playing with somebody in the audience like a cat with a mouse. You know it’s going to end badly ... for the mouse.”

“I don’t think Barry was given the best audience that night,” Bert Newton told 3AW’s Remember When radio show on Sunday night.

That’s a generous remark from a Melbourne showbiz friend.

Perhaps it is time to stop blaming it on the audience. At age 78, Barry Humphries has done well to play to good houses for most of his half-century (plus) on stage.

He is very intelligent. Very talented. Very experienced. And if Barry Humphries is truly street-smart, he will ensure his ‘farewell’ bow comes at a time when most of the audience still applauds for some more.

7 YEARS JAIL FOR MASSEUR ■ Masseur Peter Brennan’s minimum jail term has been reduced to seven years, after he took his rape conviction to the Court of Appeal.

Supreme Court Judges Redluch, Hansen and Curtain allowed part of the appeal. Ten victims had complained about Brennan, 66.

Ms Forbes, proprietor of Serenity and Tranquility Health Care and Day Spa Centre, Ballarat, said she had instructed Brennan to avoid touching breast and abdominal areas, the groin and upper thigh, and to massage the buttocks only with a sheet over the client.

Comedy fundraiser ■ A line-up of some of Melbourne’s best comedians, including Bev Killick, Puppetry of the Penis, Dave Callan, Monte Diamonte, Steve Bedwell, Simon Palomares and many more will share the stage at Comedy Bites Dog, a fundraiser event for the Black Dog Institute that promises to be an affordable night of comedy on Sunday, September 9 at The Order of Melbourne, Level 2, 401 Swanston St, Melbourne.

‘ACCIDENTAL’ Brennan admitted massaging the breasts of one client ‘SC’, admitting penetration of her vagina which he said was “accidental”.

In another case, Brennan said he had permission to massage NH’s vagina and groin. He admitted kissing her on the cheek.

Complaints were also made by ‘MM’ and ‘FB’, partly or wholly denied by Brennan.

Brennan told the pregnant ‘MM’ that he was massaging her breasts because it would help her lactate, and stimulate blood circulation.

The reduced jail sentence comes as an adjustment to cumulated prison terms.

Mark Richardson: Lantern light-up ......... Page 4 Music: Helfgott at Hamer Hall .............. Page 5 Di Rolle: Like musical chocolate ........... Page 8 Melb. Confidential: Co, director fined ..... Page 9 People: Eat Pray Laugh Opening Night .. Page 11 Long Shots: The Editor’s column .......... Page 12 Extra: Chips Rafferty profile ................ Page 14 Readers Club: Photo special .......... Page 21 TV Times: 12-page liftout .......... starts Page 23 Classics: Les Miserables .......... starts Page 29 Victoria Pictorial: Nostalgic photos ....... Page 47 Local Theatre Arts: Opera TV-Radio Movies, DVDs

Observer Showbiz

Latest News Flashes Around Victoria

Biker clocked: 250kmh ■ An international motorcyclist, 21, has been caught speeding at 250kmh near Violet Town.

7 says sorry to Mum ■ The Seven Network has apologised after deleting angry comments from its Facebook page posted by the mum of a girl killed in a quad-bike accident.

Road check drug find ■ A random traffic intercept resulted in a drug bust for Castlemaine Police who found 254 grams of cannabis and a small quantity of other drugs, including cocaine and ecstasy, in a 45-year-old man's car.

Plea: child porn case ■ Former ABC Collectors presenter Andrew Muirhead is set to plead guilty in a child pornography case.

Warning for underaged ■ Bendigo Police are targeting underage drinkers with a renewed focus on fines for both the licensed venues that let them in and teenagers who drink.

Scam aimed at seniors ■ A warning has been issued over a phone scam using the Care For Aged Australians name.

Mike McColl Jones

Top 5 THE TOP 5 EVENTS THAT MIGHT LIVEN UP THE OLYMPICS 5. Catching the javelin.

4. Hurdles for harness racing.

3. The 100-metre sprint for people with no sense of direction.

2. Guess the IQ of the average Price Is Right studio audience.

1. Racing to a camera lens faster than Lara Bingle

Page 4 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012

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Mark Richardson ♥ Straight from the heart

E-Mail: mark@localmedia.com.au

TEAM GUNNERS LIGHT THE NIGHT

■ Australians are renowned for their 'true blue' Aussie spirit.

When the going gets tough, we certainly get moving. Whether we face the aftermath of bushfires, floods, drought or illness, we are dependable; we have a natural instinct to roll up our sleeves and lend a helping hand to assist our families, friends, neighbours, community and our fellow Aussies.

At times, in the shadows of our famous founders and patrons of highly publicised not-for-profit organisations, the extraordinary work of thousands of 'ordinary' Australians who equally share the same passion and drive to 'fight the good fight,' often at a 'grass root' level can easily go unnoticed.

I was honoured to be invited by Beaconfield's beauty therapist and mother of two, Natalie Church, to her third 'Team Gunners' fundraising event last Saturday night in the leadup to the Leukaemia Foundation's annual 'Light The Night Walk' that will be held in September in Melbourne's Alexandra Gardens.

The 'Team Gunners' is a made up of Natalie's family and friends, including her mother Christine Ambrose and her friend's daughter Jade, who have both been diagnosed with leukaemia.

More than 150 'Team Gunners' supporters partied through till Sunday morning at the Officer Hall and were entertained by Melbourne band Counterfeat, who joined in the efforts

WALKING PORCH THOUGHTS More photos on Page 6

● Lanterns being shined to top last year's total of $15,000 through donations and raffles .

"I am thrilled at the support we have again received from the entire community. Blood cancer, like with my mum, can develop in anyone, of any age, at any time.

“As the Leukaemia Foundation does not receive government funding, the money we raise will go towards critical blood cancer research in leading hospitals and institutes across Australia through their national research program," Natalie said.

To support the 'Team Gunners' or to register your team and join thousands of other Victorians in their inspiring twilight September walk as they shine their lanterns of hope and raise funds to help cure leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma, visit www.lightthenight.org.au

● Christine Ambrose with daughter Natlie Church

● Amanda and Brendon Ralph

● Amanda Regan, Tanya Graham, Jacqui Houghton

● Bryan Chesson, David Bloor, Dean Jensen

● Denise West and Sarah Crewes

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012 - Page 5

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Observer

Showbiz News

ARIA JUDGING THIS WEEKEND Briefs In coma

FILE PHOTO

■ A Ballarat man, 30, is in a coma after an illegal firework exploded in the car he was driving, causing extensive damage to his legs. He sufered burns to 30 per cent of his body.

Decision

■ A Supreme Court judge will decide how much compensation Powercor must pay Horsham Golf Club after mediation failed in the Black Saturday fires damages case.

To Court

■ A 40-year-old man was remanded to appear in Court on Monday charged with arson after a Portland district rural house was burnt on Saturday night. ● Turn To Page 43 for a four-page feature on the freeto-air Olympics TV coverage on Ch 9

■ The battle for the title of 2012 Royal Melbourne Phiharmonic Aria winner is now heating up with the announcement of seven of Australia's best oratorio singers as finalists in this prestigious competition.

Three sopranos, one mezzo-soprano, one tenor and two baritones will be singing their hearts out on Sunday (July 29) from 7pm at Federation Square's BMW Edge.

The finalists, listed in alphabetical order, are: ■ Kate Amos of Brighton - soprano ■ Charlotte Betts-Dean of Windsor - mezzo-soprano ■ Alexandra Flood of Kew - soprano ■ Jeremy Kleeman of Vermont South - baritone ■ Nathan Lay of Chadstone - baritone ■ Timothy Reynolds of Port Melbourne - tenor ■ Barbara Zavros of Reservoir - soprano Faced with the difficult task of selecting the winners and place getters g ABC Classic FM's Graham Abbott, Opera Australia and Victorian Opera mezzo-soprano Roxane Hislop, RMP Official Accompanist Stefan Cassomenos and RMP Chief Conductor Andrew Wailes.

The night will be compared by 3MBS announcer and conductor Peter Bandy, and will also feature a performance of Faure's requiem by the RMP Oratorio Festival Singers with the RMP Choir Orchestra, featuring special guest soloists Greta Bradman and Nicholas Dinopoulos, both of whom are past runners-up in the RMP Aria and who now have successful professional singing careers.

First prize is a cash prize of $1650 as well as a future professional engagement and recording with the RMP, language coaching and a photographic package valued at over $500.00.

The runner-up receives a cash prize of $850, and an optional offer of a professional future engagement with the RMP as well as a photographic package.

There is swag of other awards, including a special People's Choice Award, voted by all members of the audience, and various other professional development and language coaching prizes.

Tickets and further information: www.rmp.org.au or www.ticketmaster.com.au Phone bookings: 0427 028 096

WEDNESDAYS 12.45AM. Cheryl Threadgold, community theatre writer, reports on 3AW. www.3aw.com.au 1.15AM. Jim Sherlock discusses movies/ DVDs with Andrew McLaren. www.3aw.com.au 10AM. Editor Ash Long talks with Denis Scanlan on The Pulse 94.7 www.947thepulse.com 10PM. Rob Foenander presents Country Crossroads on Casey 97.7 FM www.3ser.org.au

● Barbara Zavros

Melbourne Observations with Matt Bissett-Johnson

THURSDAYS 9.15AM. Editor Ash Long talks with Bob and Judy Phillips on 3RPP. www.rppfm.com.au 10PM. Kevin Trask presents The Time Tunnel with Walter Williams www.4bc.com.au

FRIDAYS AM. Ted Ryan talks racing with Denis Scanlan on The Pulse 94.7 www.947thepulse.com 2.30PM. Jim Sherlock talks movies/DVDs with Denis Walter on 3AW www.3aw.com.au

● Kate Amos

HELFGOTT AT HAMER HALL

■ One of Australia’s best loved pianists, David Helfgott, will perform the music that propelled him into worldwide fame – the legendary Shine Concerto (Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.3) – with the Australian Concert Orchestra at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre, Melbourne on Wednesday, August 15.

Helfgott has enthralled audiences on his current European tour with the brilliance he brings to this signature piece and received a 16- minute standing ovation after his per-

Listen to the Melbourne Observer on your radio

● David Helfgott will perform on August 15

formance of the Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.3 under conductor Mathias Foremny and the Stuttgart Symphoniker at the famous Musikverein Concert Hall in Vienna.

Presenter of this concert, Andrew McKinnon, said “The ‘Rach 3’ has come to be David’s trademark piece and a parallel for his triumphant life story, made famous after the release of the 1996 Academy Award winning film Shine based on this talented pianist’s life.”

For the Rach 3, David will be joined by The Australian Concert Orchestra, a versatile, vibrant and experienced orchestra that performs under the considered direction of Chief Conductor SarahGrace Williams.

Widely acknowledged around the world, David has toured to more than 37 countries to great acclaim.

The 1996 film Shine propelled David to worldwide fame. The extraordinary seven-time Oscar nominated film revealed David’s genius and inspiring story, and won Geoffrey Rush an Academy Award for his astonishing portrayal of Helfgott.

David will also perform Bach’s Italian Concerto and Beethoven’s Sonata Op.57 The Appassionata.

SUNDAYS 9AM. Mike McColl Jones talks the Top 5 with Bob Phillips on 3RPP. www.rppfm.com.au 12 NOON. Kevin Trask presents That’s Entertainment on 96.5FM. www.innerfm.org.au 8.20PM. Kevin Trask presents The Time Tunnel on Remember When. www.3aw.com.au

MONDAYS 2PM. Yvonne Lawrence presents Life And Style on 3WBC 94.1FM www.3wbc.org.au 8PM. Len Baker presents Harness Review on 97.9FM www.979fm.net 10PM. Kevin Trask presents Memories Are Made Of This on 4BC www.4bc.com.au

TUESDAYS 6AM. Rob Foenander presents The Big Breakfast on 88.3 Southern FM www.southernfm.com.au

ALSO BE LISTENING FOR Julie Houghton discusses the arts on 3MBS-FM, 3MBS Digital, Online www.3mbs.org.au Di Rolle discusses Melbourne entertainment on 3AW, overnights. www.3aw.com.au

AND WATCH FOR Country Crossroads TV show on Aurora Channel 183, Foxtel www.aurora.tv

melbourneobserver.com.au

Page 6 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012

‘See you at the theatre’

● Brian Hickey and Steven Olsen, proprietors of London Taxi Wedding Services, were pictured at the State Theatre at the Arts Centre.

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

People Melbourne

Send news to editor@melbourneobserver.com.au

Team Gunners fundraiser at Officer Hall

● Lee Vink, Robyn Meinecke, Kerryn Papworth

Fax: 1-800 231 312

At Her Majesty’s

● Steve Amrbose and Adam Church

● Greta Donaldson and Helen Reizer were pictured at the opening night of the new Barry Humphries show, Eat, Pray, Laugh, at Her Majesty’s Theatre. ● Lisa Tew and Selly Phillips

● Steve and Kellie Lancaster

● Nicole Jensen and Sharon Bloor

● Trevor and Sam Rooke

● Nikki and Mario Pagliuca

● Members of the band Counterfeat

Empire building

● The Napoleon: Revolution To Empire exhibition continues, 10am-5pm, until October 7 at the National Gallery of Victoria. The first Emperor of France is pictured with the Contessa of Collins St, Suzanne Carbone.

Your opportunity to be part of a special film experience ■ Arts House and Back to Back Theatre are seeking volunteer participants to be part of the special film experience to create The Democratic Set at Arts House, North Melbourne Town Hall from Tuesday, August 7 to Thursday, August 9.

Filming takes place in a purpose built set where participants can express and explore grand ideals of equality and freedom and explore the belief that all people are, in principle, equal and should enjoy social, political and economic rights and opportunities.

The Democratic Set is a series of 15-second video portraits,

edited into a film that will be presented and premiered at The Other Film Festival on Saturday, September 22 at Arts House North Melbourne Town Hall.

Participants need to register their interest and will work with a director and filmmaker to workshop and film an individual, duet and/or group response over a 20-minute period.

It is free to participate – all ages and all abilities welcome. To register, please contact Bec Reid by email: bec.reid@melbourne.vic.gov.au or telephone 9658 9304.

- Cheryl Threadgold

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012 - Page 7

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Page 8 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012

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To

Greatest Show on Earth

Di Let the Games begin ■ Three more sleeps to the official opening of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games, officially the Games of the XXX Olympiad, also known informally as London 2012 They will kick off on Saturday morningand my life will be held hostage to my television just for something different until August 12.

The opening ceremony will be called The Isles of Wonder and I believe - from what I have been told - that the whole opening ceremony is fit for a Queen.

I have heard whispers that Her Majesty will appear in the opening film in her first acting role, where she will play herself alongside James Bond played by James Craig.

I am not saying anything else for fear of spoiling it for myself!

All I pray for is that someone informs the military steel around the Park not to shoot him down!

I know Sir Paul McCartney has announced he will perform, however I am really waiting to see ifThe Rolling Stones will perform! Imagine that!

Our ‘Jof’ is in charge ■ Whilst I think of all the athletes and the gold medals I know they all bring home, particularly the swimming team, I think of all the crew behind the scenes for the massive television coverage of which I know I am going to love and watch every minute..

My mate, muesli mogul Flip Shelton’s husband Jeff Coleman is in London working for the company that owns the rights to produce the event, and sell the television signal to the world, the Olympic Broadcasting Services London Ltd. Jeff, or ‘Jof’ has he is fondly known to his mates, always says to me that his job is hard to accurately describe.

He is called the Venue Technical Manager. The Venue Technical Manager is responsible for everything technical.

This includes power, all broadcast and rights holder cabling, camera platforms, movements of cameras, aerial platforms, over head camera rigs, external camera locations, within the city and every one on site that is technical.

In London Jeff has three venues including The Mall, where they start and finish marathon, race walks and cycling time trial.

There is also Box Hill where the road race will loop nine times for the men and twice for the women.

He has three deputies working for him.

Two of those are also from Melbourne, one is a local engineer.

So whilst I sit back and watch the events unfold I will think of Jof and all the crew members working hard long hours to bring the coverage to us all in Melbourne and around the world.

I love my job!

■ A couple of interesting points about the Olympic Games is that the official song of the Olympic Games is called Survival, a single released by the English band Muse.

It will be broadcast when the athletes enter the stadium and in the period before medal ceremonies; international broadcasters will also be playing it while reporting on the Games.

By the time the Games finish we will either be in love with the song or never want to hear it again!

Interesting to note and I am sure it will come up during the Games, a campaign was launched to urge the IOC to include a minute’s silence during the Opening Ceremony in memory of the 11 Israeli athletes murdered by Palestinian terrorists in 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich.

American President Barack Obama publicly supported the campaign, joined by the United States Senate, the German Bundestag, members of the Canadian and Australian parliaments, about 50 members of the British Parliament, and about 140 members of Italy’s Parliament.

The International Olympic Committee has rejected this request.

American sportscaster Bob Costas, who will anchor NBC’s coverage, stated that he will publicly criticise the IOC for denying the request.

It will be overall in my opinion the Greatest Show on earth at the time! From the opening ceremony to the closing ceremony bring it on I say!

For GEMMA: LIKE MUSICAL CHOCOLATE

■ The Basement is one of my favourite music venues in Melbourne.

Always reliable, laid back and good consistent performers.

Gemma Turvey is a pianist and composer and she is presenting, along with The New Palm Court Orchestra, a performance on Sunday, August 5, at 9pm.

The doors open at Bennetts Lane at 8.30pm – it’s a great little jazz club and a ‘must visit’ to hear good jazz piano such that Gemma plays.

Fresh from recording her new CD with The New Palm Court Orchestra, Landscapes For A Mind’s Eye, this particular performance will be a sneak preview of some of the material which will be launched in October.

Palm Court Orchestras were popular in the 1920s and 30s for playing light instrumental music in an intimate setting.

The New Palm Court Orchestra injects this seductive format with a new fresh vitality, delivering a stunning, rich palette of beautifully evocative original music.

This performance is made possible by the support of The Melbourne Jazz CoOp, which presents and programs some of the nation’s best and brightest improvising musicians of which Gemma is way up there. Sunday, August 5, Bennetts Lane Jazz Club, 25 Bennetts Lane, Melbourne.

Doors open 8.30pm Show begins 9pm.

Tickets $18 full, $15 concession Bookings: www.bennettslane. com.au Gemma’s music is

with leading Melbourne publicist DI ROLLE

lcoasels and each is manifestly fieretoin its coloir, food, wine and art.

“These changing, regional colours are what have interested me and what continue to inform my Italian travels.

“Living in Bologna has enabled me to absorb the culture and

lifestyle of Italy in a profound way.

“The resultant pictures are more than just post-cards, they are heartfelt responses to the beauty of Italy.” said Michael McAuley on the eve of his visit to Melbourne.

More info on www. mitchellmcauley.com.

Doing the right thing

described by Qantas Entertainment as “perfect ... like musical chocolate”.

From Mars ■ Melbourne artist Mitchell McAuley has been living in Bologna, Italy, for more than a year and is returning to Melbourne for an exhibition at MARS Gallery (Melbourne Art Rooms, Port Melbourne) from August 8-September 2.

Whilst he has been submerging himself in the ‘old and traditional’ artworks and forms, somewhat untraditionally, all of Mitchell’s art is painted on Ikea cardboard packaging.

What happened was when he settled into his new home in Bologna with his wife

● Gemma Turvey and twin eight-yearold boys, they he had to get bunks, some desks and a clothes cupboard for the boys, and then Mitchell needed a table and stool for the studio.

He found himself surrounded by all this cardboard and being environmentally sensitive, he thought “l might as well paint on it”.

Mitchell is also holding a workshop open to anyone on August 19 at Folly Farm, Olinda.

What a perfect way to spend a day, over morning tea and a twocourse lunch at the popular Wild Oak Restaurant.

Mitchell and Italian artist Antonio Postacchini will host a drawing workshop in the picturesque Edna

Walling historic gardens at Folly Farm.

Sounds bliss to me.

And there will be a ‘family day’ and artist floor talk at MARS too on Sunday 12 August 12, 3pm-5 pm.

Mitch will lead a lengthy Q and A discussion about his work.

I am looking forward to seeing his exhibition on Wednesday August 8 at 6pm.

Titled The Italian Grand Tour, the exhibition will run until September 2.

“This group of works is a series that I have captured on my many and varied travels. These capture the architecture of the Italian every day: duomos, bridges, buildings and piazzas.

“Italy is a country made up of unique

■ Huffington Post newspaper and BBC Radio are always most interesting to read and listen to – both of which I indulge in a lot.

While I know there will be all sorts of stories that will come out of the Olympic Games, I was amused to hear on BBC radio that Lord Sebastian Coe has admitted fans will be banned from wearing Pepsi T-shirts at the Olympic park.

Lord Coe, elite athlete and winner of gold medals himself, I find really interesting.

He happens to be the Olympic Committee Chairman and he got the Olympic Games for London . He once squired our very own Jane Flemming.

Olympic patrons could even be turned away for sporting Nike trainers!

I remember the days you could wear Nike trainers to any sporting event and Pepsi Tshirts to the tennis ... not anymore.

It’s all about sponsors and keeping people happy and doing the right thing. It is, after all, going to be the greatest show on earth ….

Thank you Lord Coe. In closing, a thought for all the people who attended the movie theatre in Colorado who lost their lives and to dear young Thomas Kelly who none of us should ever forget.

To the powers that be, please keep our streets clean and free and protect us from such darkness.

● Lord Sebastian Coe

Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012 - Page 11

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Confidential Melbourne

Talk is cheap, gossip is priceless

GEELONG ENERGY COMPANY, DIRECTOR, FINED $17,300

Bitch Melbourne’s Secrets

Manners please, Geoffrey

● Actor Geoffrey Rush brushes past the media this week at Her Majesty’s Theatre ■ It is time for actor Geoffrey Rush to re-learn some manners. Rush gave the media a tough time at the opening night of the Barry Humphries show, Eat Pray Laugh.

“I have nothing to say,” he snapped at nice-guy Ten News reporter Rakhal Ebeli, who politely asked for a quick chat. Rush refused to co-operate with press photographers doing their job..

Rush would be wise to keep the Hollywood persona for Hollywood, Perhaps it’s time to remember that he is just an actor from Camberwell (albeit a talented one) Social media lit up with comments from media practitioners. ‘Sally’ said: “He did the same to me a couple of years ago. Who says 'No comment'?

My crew and I put him on the 'we don't care what you're flogging' list.”

‘Lachlan’ added: “Maybe he was being brutally honest about himself. Outside of pushing some barrow for a cause, or flogging a new film, perhaps our Geoffrey might be devoid of anything interesting to say?”

Should Rush behave more like a role model to aspiring practitioners, and fellow members of the AustralianAcademy Cinema TelevisionArts where he is listed as President? Or what about his role after being named as Australian of the Year, by Prime Minister Julia Gillard earlier this year?

‘Bitch’ would have thought Rush, with 40 years’ experience in ‘the business’, would know how important it is that media, producers and performers work together. Or perhaps Geoffrey Rush is only good at repeating lines written by others?

The test will come next Monday (July 30) when Rush is due to return to the Dress Circle of Her Majesty’s Theatre to announce the full cast of A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum.

■ Well-known Geelong-based green energy company, Green Diesel Corp Ltd, and its director Ronald Kukler, have been convicted on eight charges following an Australian Securities and Investments Commission investigation.

Green Diesel Corp Ltd, a public company that developed the Green Diesel Fuel Injection System, pleaded guilty to seven charges in the Geelong Magistrates’ Court.

The charges relate to the company's failure to: ■ hold Annual General Meetings for the 2010 and 2011 financial years ■ provide annual reports to members for the 2010 and 2011 financial years ■ lodge annual reports with ASIC for the 2010 and 2011 financial years, and ■ have at least one company secretary during the period 30 September 2011 to 20 March 2012.

The company was convicted and fined a total of $16,800.

Ronald Kukler, a director of Green Diesel Corp Ltd, also

pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the company in failing to hold an annual general meeting for the 2011 financial year.

Kukler was convicted and fined $500.

The failure of the company to lodge annual reports and hold annual general meetings was reported to ASIC by shareholders of the company, who were concerned that they could not make informed financial decisions due to the lack of financial reports provided by the company.

ASIC Commissioner, Greg Tanzer said this case clearly showed why it was important for companies and directors to provide annual reports and hold annual meetings as required under the law.

VIC. BODIES LOSE STATUS ■ A number of Victorian associations have lost their incorporated status, advises Deputy Registrar David Betts: Victorian Specialist Employment and Training Services Inc.; B2RAquatic Warrnambool Inc.; Probus Club of Boronia Inc.; Arts Community Television Inc.; Benalla Bush Artists Inc.; The Loch Sport Business & Community Development Group Inc.; Australia All Nations Brotherhood Inc.; Dingley Village Chamber of Commerce Inc.; Australian Creative Studio Inspiration Inc.; Friends of CFA Volunteers Inc.; Phillip Island Retail & Business Association Inc.; Clarkefield Recreation Reserve Inc.; The Aviation Institute Inc.; Olinda Country Club Inc.; The Kirk Quire Inc.; Peak Service Taxi Association Inc.; Associazione-Italo-Aust ‘Citta-Di-Fiume’ Inc.; Mount Alexander Business Network Inc.; Sheng Jing Buddhist Lodge Incorporated; Eltham Eagles In-Line Hockey Club Inc.; Latrobe Valley Darts Association Inc.; The Fairley Fellows Network Inc.; Friends of the P. S. Canally Inc.; Shepparton Storm Basketball Club Inc.; Association of Phillip Island Sports Clubs Inc.; Long Gully Senior Citizens Club Inc.; Kfarhazir Benevolent Society; Not My Choice Inc.; North East Women’s Business Network (NEWBN) Inc.; City of St. Kilda Cora Graves Centre Inc.; Life Education Centre – North West Region Inc.; Chardoneigh Horse Trekkers Inc.; Probus Club of Brunswick Inc.; Echuca and District Vocational Education and Training (EDVET) Inc.; Ladies Probus Club of Grovedale Inc.; Adult Community Education Sale Inc.; The Lions Club of Stonnington Inc.; Seymour Softwoods Growers Group Inc.; Bacchus Marsh Longest Lunch Assoc Inc.; Timbarra Residents’Association Inc.; Alfredton Child Welfare and Pre School Centre Inc.; BHP Billiton Social Club Inc.; Victorian Taxi Operators Council Inc.; VIP Taxi Club Inc.; Melbourne Taxi Drivers Association Inc.

“This matter demonstrates the ongoing focus ASIC has on companies that fail to uphold their reporting responsibilities which severely compromises the transparency around a company and limits shareholders' ability to make informed decisions.

“These obligations are important and ASIC will not hesitate to pursue companies who disregard them.”

The matters were heard before the Geelong Magistrates’ Court on July 13 and were prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.

3 guilty ■ Three men have been found guilty of intimidating behaviour against former Ferntree Gully Eagles coach Brent King.

They are Frank Coviello of Boronia; Gary Stephens of Upwey; and Billy Mitchell of Upwey.

Rumour Mill Hear It Here First

Crikey! Beecher says sorry ■ Peter Blunden, Managing Director - Editor, for News Victoria, has won a grovelling apology from Eric Beecher’s Crikey newsletter.

Crikey had to admit Andrew Crook’s report about Blunden being responsible for the departure of Herald Sun Editor Simon Pristel was “inaccurate and without any foundation”.

Crikey was forced to run the apology at its ● Peter Blunden website and in its newsnewsletter, as well as paying a sizeable donation to a charity of Blunden’s choice.

This is the same Eric Beecher who bleats often about “quality journalism”.

Blunden seems to be enjoying his hands-on role with the Herald Sun, Weekly Times, Geelong Advertiser and Leader titles. But just wait until he returns refreshed from an overseas trip in August.

Legal bill blows to $110,000 ■ Hobsons Bay Council’s legal bill - over matters surrounding a feud between Mayor Cr Tony Briffa and - has blown out to $110,000. At least $20,000 cannot be recouped under an insurance policy.

E-Mail: Editor@MelbourneObserver.com.au

Whispers

PJ Lane

● P J Lane ■ Entertainer P J Lane, son of the late Don Lane, is to be seen in the Nine Network’s Underbelly; Badness series to be aired after the Olympic Games.

The 27-year-old put on 18kg of muscle for the role.

Bogus e-mail

● Cr Jennifer Mulholland ■ Banyule Council has investigated an e-mail sent from Cr Jennifer Mulholland’s account under a false name.

Cr Mulholland said her husband mistakenly sent the email while she was in hospital. No breach was found to have occurred.

At fault

● Mike Tyler ■ The CEO of Casey Council, Mike Tyler, had a conflict of interest during Councillors’ handling of a harassment complaint made against him.

Tyler told thenMayor Lorraine Wreford, and made other steps. A probe said he should have declared it at a Council meeting.

Page 10 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012 - Page 11

Melbourne People

Opening Night: ‘Eat, Pray, Laugh’ with Barry Humphries Her Majesty’s Theatre

● Shannon Reid with Derryn Hinch

● Margaret Holden with son Andrew, new Editor-in-Chief of The Age

● Alfie Duran with John-Michael Howson

● Peter and Tanya Kemp

● Patti Newton and Bert Newton

● Gary Bartholomew with Mark Watson

● Elaine and David Marriner

● Jim and Regina Murphy

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Page 12 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012 Melbourne

Observer

Ash On Wednesday

Media Flash

JUST THE FACTS, MA’AM

Masons mix it up

Our Doors are Open!

Freemasonry welcomes men of all faiths.

● Brother Ramsey El-Atm Once thought by non-members to the domain of Protestants, Freemasonry is increasingly becoming a melting pot of diversity, attracting men from a range of cultural backgrounds and religious beliefs.

As the Victorian arm of the worldwide fraternal organisation sees its biggest membership growth in 30 years, applications are being received from Jews, Catholics, Hindus, Buddhists, Orthodox Greeks and Muslims, among other religions, confirming Freemasonry really is for men of all faiths and ages.

Jewish man and Deputy Grand Master of Freemasons Victoria Hillel Benedykt says, "Freemasonry is not a religious organisation, rather a spiritual one that welcomes men of all faiths, and it always has.

“It encourages personal enlightenment and growth through storytelling, symbolism and ceremonies based on morality, and therefore complements a man's existing beliefs. Many of the lessons taught in Freemasonry trace their origin to the Old Testament.

“As a consequence, when I'm in Synagogue, there are often parts of the service that appear very familiar. In this respect Judaism and Freemasonry complement each other beautifully."

Member for 17 years and Orthodox Greek Fotios Spiridonos believes Freemasonry really is for any man of any religious or cultural background. "When I first joined, my parents were shocked. But now there is more understanding about Freemasonry and there are many Greek members."

21-year-old Ramsey El-Atm joined The Revival Lodge in Greensborough when he was just 18. As a practicing Muslim, he feels Freemasonry sits well alongside his religion.

"There is nothing about being a Freemason that conflicts with my Islamic faith. Most of the other members of my Lodge are Christian, but to be a Mason, you only have to believe in a supreme being - it doesn't matter which one. When I was initiated, I took my obligation on my family's Koran but others may use the Holy Bible."

Ramsey is one of a new breed of 20 and 30something Freemasons seeking spiritual and personal discovery. The average age of new initiates in Victoria is now 38, and current Grand Master Bob Jones puts it down to Freemasonry offering young men purpose and a nurturing environment.

"Freemasonry did so much for me as a young man finding my way in the world and can do the same for anyone looking to join a supportive and accepting brotherhood that encourages selfdevelopment, social awareness and selfconfidence.

“We teach members about values and principles, which is relevant to people from all stations in life. I believe the world's problems, like religious and political wars, could be solved with Freemasonry because it's a melting pot of diversity and interfaith socialisation," said Grand Master Jones.

"Ramsey is one of hundreds of new young members from a diverse range of backgrounds and faiths seeking to better themselves."

Of his Masonic journey, Ramsey says,"I hope to gain some sort of enlightenment. Many great Freemasons of the past have stated that they discovered such enlightenment during their time in the Craft. I also want to better myself as an individual, and to become a man of a high moral and ethical standard."

To find out more about Freemasonry, how to become a member, attend upcoming public events, or to take a tour of the Masonic Centre, please visit www.freemasonsvic.net.au or 'Like' our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ freemasonsvic for the most up to date information.

■ If you ask any of the Melbourne Observer columnists, all would say that their Editor is keen that their show reviews include honest criticism about the things that went wrong, as well as praise for the people who did well.

Not criticism for its own sake, but genuine and balanced appraisal about the strengths and weaknesses of a show.

Julie Houghton put a refreshing review to air on 3MBS-FM this week, with her guest Peter Birch offering an honest appraisal of The Marriage of Figaro at the Playhouse.

Peter offered the opinion that it was the wrong venue: carpet on the floor, carpet on the wall, where could the sound go?

You could hear individual musical instruments, but not an orchestra as a whole.

Well done on a splendid critique. Melbourne’s media could do with more of such candour. Too many ‘critics’ think everything is wonderful. Free tickets can do that!

● Julie Houghton

Long Shots

50 years editor@ melbourneobserver.com.au

with Ash Long, Editor “For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance For the future in the distance, And the good that we can do”

● Paul Nicholson ■ Observer reader Paul Nicholson this week cranks up 50 years membership of the Pufing Billy Railway Preservation Society.

The first section of the Belgrave-Gembrook narrow gauge railway reopened as a tourist attraction on July 28, 1962.

Ourselves ■ We offer condolences to our country music columnist Rob Foenander on the loss of his mother Barbara, 79. A private funeral service was held late last week in the Latrobe Valley.

■ Columnist Yvonne Lawrence is on the sick list with ‘flu. Her column will return as soon as she is feeling better.

Observer Treasury Thought For The Week ■ “All rising to a great place is by a winding stair.”

- Francis Bacon

Observer Curmudgeon ■ “Daytime television is the punishment inflicted on people who stay home from work when they’re not really sick.”

Text For The Week ■ “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

- Matthew 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, Responsibility for election and referendum comment is accepted by the Editor, Ash Long.

Copyright © 2012, Local Media Pty Ltd

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT COURT REPORTS Contents of Court Lists are intended for information purposes only. The lists are extracted from Court Lists, as supplied to the public, by the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria, often one week prior to publication date; for current Court lists, please contact the Court. Further details of cases are available at www.magistratescourt.vic.gov.au The Melbourne Observer shall in no event accept any liability for loss or damage suffered by any person or body due to information provided. The information is provided on the basis that persons accessing it undertake responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content. No inference of a party’s guilt or innocence should be made by publication of their name as a defendant. Court schedules may be changed at any time for any reason, including withdrawal of the action by the Plaintiff/Applicant. E&OE.

● The Melbourne Weekly: Fairfax is closing the magazine after 20 years

Can Fairfax Media ever get it right?

■ It must be fun using shareholders’ funds at Fairfax Media. A few years back, Fairfax paid $67 million to buy Text Media, publishers of the Melbourne Weekly magazine, a glossy publication in the southeast ‘wealth belt’.

This month sees Fairfax closing the Melbourne Weekly titles after 968 issues, just ahead of its 20th anniversary in October. Where did that investment go?

Fairfax is bundling its MW interests into The Weekly Review, which was started just two years ago

by Antony Catalano and his partners.

For this privilege, Fairfax paid $35 million into Catalano’s Metro Media Publishing, and folded its Fairfax Community Network stable of 32 suburban newspapers into the deal.

Fairfax has been responsible for losing so much business over decades. In the case of Weekly Review, it took about $20 million of Melbourne Weekly’s revenue, and steered another $40 million of the revenue away from The Saturday Age. Fairfax had tried a weekly Melbourne Property Guide, but closed that. It had earlier tried Melbourne Winners’ Weekly, but closed that too.

From the days when Fairfax took over David Syme interests, they just haven’t done it very well.

Newsday, an afternoon paper, closed after less than a year in 1969. So did The Age Large Print Weekly.

So did the Melbourne Express commuter daily.

The Age has shrunk as a business. It has failed to keep up with the times. Fairfax told the Australian Stock Exchange that it cannot guarantee that The Age will continue as a print publication. It will change to a ‘compact’ tabloid-size from March 4.

Fairfax will soon close its Tullamarine printing plant at a cost of tens of millions. The Age will be printed at Fairfax presses in the Victorian countryside at Ballarat, and possibly Albury-Wodonga.

Overall, 1900 jobs are being axed. Printing staff redundancy payouts will total more than $60 million.

Over the past few decades, Fairfax has either closed or merged many of its valuable Victorian mastheads.

Joining the Melbourne Weekly, tombstones have been erected for titles, most purchased with shareholders’ funds, including: Footscray Mail, Dandenong Journal, MeltonBacchus Marsh Mail-Express, Sunshine (Brimbank/North-West) Advocate, Werribee Banner, Williamstown Advertiser, Altona-Laverton Mail, Community News - Moreland, Community News Moonee Valley, Valley Life, Valley Weekly, SunburyMacedon Ranges Telegraph, Berwick and District Journal, Pakenham Journal, Knox Journal formerly Knox Post, Maroondah Journal formerly Marondah Post, Yarra Ranges Journal formerly Lilydale Post, Doncaster-Templestowe Post, Monash Journal formerly Monash Post, Dandenong Examiner (later Independent), Southern Peninsula Mail, Mornington Mail, Frankston-Hastings Independent, Frankston Flyer, Cranbourne Independent, Chelsea-Mordialloc- Mentone Independent, Northern News, South Melbourne Record, Richmond Voice and Camberwell Free Press.

One wonders - with so many closures - if Fairfax Media can ever get it right.

- Ash Long

Free reader ads are available in the Melbourne Trader section of the ‘Melbourne Observer’

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Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012 - Page 13

Page 14 - Melbourne Observer - Wednesday, July 25, 2012

■ There have been several actors that have represented the ‘typical Australian’ on the silver screen over the years.

George Wallace and Paul Hogan come to mind but I guess that ‘Chips’ Rafferty was also one of the great Australian character actors in films.

John William Goffage was born in Broken Hill, New South Wales, in 1909 and was given the nickname of "chips" whilst in primary school.

John grew to be 6' 6" and worked as a drover, shearer, pearl diver and boundary rider before landing an extra role in the film Ants In His Pants.

In 1935 he married Colina Ferguson but they divorced six years later.

He played a comic role in Dad Rudd, M.P. and then in 1940 Charles Chauvel cast him as a larrikin ‘digger’ in the film Forty Thousand Horsemen.

John had a name change to Chips Rafferty and he was a natural talent. There is a scene in the film where three Light Horsemen see a pretty girl in the marketplace somewhere in the Sinai desert.

Chips was supposed to describe her as "a little dish from up the Nile”, but he felt the line did not fit his character.

When Grant Taylor said, "Do you see what I see?" Chips adlibbed the classic reply "Oranges!" - and it stayed in the final cut.

He married Ellen Jameson in 1941 and they

www.MelbourneObserver.com.au

Whatever Happened To ...

R L

By Kevin Trask of 3AW and 96.5 Inner FM were together till her death in 1964. Chips joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1941 and was discharged in 1945 with the rank of Flying Officer.

He returned to acting and his films included, The Rats of Tobruk, The Overlanders and Eureka Stockade.

He was great in Bush Christmas and I can still remember all the kids squirming in our local picture theatre when the children ate the Witchetty Grubs.

In 1953 Chips went to America to be in The Desert Rats and was joined by his old mate Charles ‘Bud’ Tingwell who was also cast in the film.

Bud Tingwell told me in a radio interview

● Chips Rafferty how he and Chips returned to Australia full of optimism and produced the film King Of The Coral Sea. Sadly these days it is hard to even find a copy of that film which was shot on The Great Barrier Reef in 1953.

In 1956 Chips played the local policeman in Smiley and then the sequel Smiley Gets A Gun in 1958.

He was a standout in The Sundowners where he worked with Deborah Kerr and Robert Mitchum.

Chips wrote the screen plays for many films

during his career and he was well respected in the industry.

He guest starred in many Australian television shows and also American television series such as Gunsmoke, Tarzan, The Monkees, The Big Valley and The Wackiest Ship In The Army.

He even starred in the film Double Trouble with Elvis Presley in 1967.

But his most remembered role is his final performance as Jock Crawford in the Australian film classic Wake In Fright.

In 1971 he was made a Member of the Order of British Empire (MBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to the performing arts.

In 1971 Chips Rafferty collapsed and died of a heart attack, at the age of62, whilst walking down a Sydney street.

I remember being in London in 1995 and attending a screening of The Overlanders at the Barbican Cinema.

I was a bit homesick but when Chips came on the screen there was a symbol of my country.

I'm sorry to say it but it's true - there will never be another Chips Rafferty.

Kevin Trask The Time Tunnel - with Bruce and Phil Sundays at 8.20pm on 3AW That's Entertainment - 96.5FM Sundays at 12 Noon 96.5FM is streaming on the internet.

To listen, go to www.innerfm.org.au and follow the prompts.

TERRITORY SUNSETS ARE THE BEST

■ I've always loved sunsets, and there are a few spots in the world where I have encountered some romantically spectacular specimens.

Tacky though it is claimed to be in some areas, there is nothing more joyful than sitting on Waikiki Beach, sipping a Mai-Tai as the glorious glow dips into the languid Pacific.

But, topping it all off, are Territory sunsets. World famous is the glow of the Rock, as it inexorably changes from its orange shimmer to a dark blue as dusk envelops the desert..

Then there is my favourite, Mindil Beach at Darwin, where this brilliant blood red orb sinks into the Arafura Sea - spectacular!

However, even though it's famous for its romantic and sensuous sunsets, there's a juxtaposition at Mindil Beach -it's also famous for other stuff -gorging food, and a booze connection!

Every Thursday night during the dry season, there is a famous market on, and almost the whole of Darwin, and every visitor in town, descends on this spot to choose many culinary delights, representing the many cultures of Darwin inhabitants, and then gorge themselves on the beach.

And then, of course, once again last week there was another phenomenon, the Beer Can Regatta, where dozens of boats, made entirely of beer cans, race around the bay. From tiny little numbers, to the 30,000 can Extravacanz.

Not much romance, but plenty of fun ■ There are often uplifting tales to tell about Aboriginal culture and life in Central Australia, but there are also others which are not so uplifting.

Life at the Yuendumu Community continues to be in the latter category.

For a few years there has being an ongoing family feud going on there, which a couple of years ago resulted in many residents just leaving and camping in parks in Adelaide.

Last week there was a group of about 15 people, mainly elderly men and women and children, from one camp seen in local store.

About 50 women from the other camp saw them there, and a riot started. The first lot were locked in the store, and were attacked by the angry women outside.

The fight continued when a large group of friends of the store detainees headed to the other camp to retaliate.

The Outback Legend

with Nick Le Souef Lightning Ridge Opals 175 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Phone 9654 4444 www.opals.net.au They were in turn attacked by the incumbent individuals with axes, nulla nullas, steel pipes, spears and star pickets, wheel braces, axles and rocks.

One group tried to flee in the local footy bus, but this was also attacked and burned out.

■ And in the Top End? One particular gentleman had decided he'd had enough of a hoon in his street, so he took matters into his own hands, and chose to chase him in his car to get his rego.

He was nabbed in the process.

As the magistrate told him: "It probably wasn't the brightest decision you made that night!"

His reading - 0.228.

Then a young lady drove up to an RBT station, but failed to stop when directed. Instead, she tried to hit one of the policemen, driving her car straight at him. Fortunately he dodged.

She had never held a licence; her reading - 0.261.

Belyuen is a small Aboriginal community on the Cox Peninsula, and Po-

lice recently conducted a grog crackdown.

They had just tipped out a carton of VB, when about 30 people attacked them with rocks.

One of the Police was punched and injured, a Police car window smashed, and capsicum sprayed about.

Just some regular Top End activity!

■ Poor old Pine Gap gets its fair share of criticism. Although it has the support of almost 100 per cent of the Alice Springs community, it's a different story elsewhere.

Probably 500 Alice Springs residents are Base workers, alongside many locals as well.

So, most Alice Springs residents have either family or friends who have a close connection.

Those that don't often have businesses in town who have many Base people as their customers, so it's a very popular place in Alice!

However, there are people about elsewhere he certainly don't agree with its presence in Australia.

Often we see cars with ‘Close the Gap’ stickers on their rear windows And every so often there is a march to the front gates, with protesters congregating from all over Australia chanting and trying to break in.

Apparently it was on one of these marches that Kevin Bloody Wilson spied a large lady protester at the gates and penned his irreverent ditty, Supermegafugly!

And of course there are those who claim that it's a target for a hostile power.

The latest is contained in the book just written by one David Uren, in which he claims that if there was a war between China and the U.S. in the South China Sea, missiles would rain down on the Base.

Hope we avoid this!

■ Anyone who has seen Sampson And Delilah knows that there is a problem with petrol sniffing in the Centre.

And indeed it is throughout Aboriginal communities. Often kids don't go to school, are totally uneducated and bored, so they sniff petrol for an escape from their miserable reality.

And often their parents don't help much. Some mothers actually tie cans around their kids' necks to quieten them down.

Whilst they do get ‘high’, in the pro-

● Pine Gap Base cess they addle their brains and end such a positive effect in reducing sniffing by Aboriginal kids, it is now sold up mentally impaired.

This is caused by the volatile hy- everywhere, except by two ‘pigdrocarbons in normal fuel, so manu- headed’ roadhouse operators.

They both still stick to the old opinfacturers developed Opal fuel, which doesn't contain these, and hence sniff- ions about it, claiming its sale will adversely affect their business. ing has no effect.

So the Government is running But many motorists don't like this fuel, claiming that it affects perfor- around trying to legislate to circummance and damages the motor. I no- vent these recalcitrant chaps!

- Nick Le Souef ticed a bit of spluttering when I used ‘The Outback Legend’ it. But because its distribution has had

From The Outer

Melbourne

Observer

kojak@ mmnet.com.au

With John Pasquarelli

■ Remember those so-called enlightened liquor licensing laws that were meant to transform Australian six-o-clock swillers into civilised European style sophisticates?

Many bars and pubs have become places to binge drink and chunder as well as being distribution points for drug dealers - by comparison, the six-o-clock swillers were gentlemen!

Throw into this deadly mix, ethnic thugs and home-grown goons and the tragedies that make the news are increasing alarmingly.

Public outrage is growing as many Australians feel betrayed by their police forces and cretins like Sydney's Clover Moore wants lollipops distributed to bar patrons.

Victoria Police will take years to recover from the double whammy of Christine Nixon and Simon Overland and the Baillieu Government is just not doing enough to restore the morale and efficiency of its force.

'Zero tolerance' is loosely thrown around but it worked in New York and our police culture Australia wide must change and that means police command and their bureaucrats.

Changes to the liquor laws must be enacted ignoring protests from the self interest of the industry and officers on the beat need hardline refresher courses at the police academy with the involvement of savvy hardheaded seniors.

The public wants no more talk - just action.

- John Pasquarelli: kojak@mmnet.com.au

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