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Cyndi Lauper GeT LauGHinG WiTH arJ BarKer & HannaH GadSBy

THe MOdern FaCe OF anZaC day

dOCKLandS SCHOOL HOLiday Guide & GiVeaWayS

2011 WOrLd iCe HOCKey CHaMpiOnSHipS aT dOCKLandS

3008 eXCLuSiVe inTerVieW

INSPIRING & UPLIFTING WITH THE MEMPHIS BLUES

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EdITOR’S NOTE

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Laughter Really is the Best Medicine

Hard to believe we are already a quarter of the way through this year and it’s hardly been the greatest start. To begin with, our summer appeared to be nonexistent and it seems every time we tune into the news over the past few months we are confronted with the horrendously devastating effects of a series of natural disasters.

For this reason we decided to focus this issue heavily on ways to rebalance the happiness and wellbeing ledger and with the very timely Melbourne International Comedy Festival set to begin and the April school holidays once again around the corner, this is an ideal time to take a break and soak up some laughter and enjoyment.

After all, as our regular 3008 contributor and Kinesiology Practitioner, Nicole Hutcheson explains on page 20, laughter is indeed the best medicine!

We have some fabulous interviews, exclusive to 3008 for your reading pleasure. The legendary singer, songwriter, actress, activist and the ultimate expert who knows that “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” Ms Cyndi Lauper. Along with Comedy Festival headliners, Arj Barker and Hannah Gadsby as well as Findlay Taylor from Cirque du Soleil.

To set the tone for a great start to April we have included some excellent school holiday ideas with some great giveaways to lessen the burden on Mum and Dad’s pockets, so get in early.

Life can’t always be just about fun and laughs and this year with so many of our military personnel deployed away from Australian shores, I wanted to explore the modern face of ANZAC Day by speaking to an actively serving member. We often tend to forget in the rush and bustle of our own lives about how many freedoms and choices we have as Australians, and that each day our military forces are risking life and limb to protect these liberties. I am most grateful to the Defence Force and RAAF Warrant Officer, Andrew Rowley for allowing me the opportunity to bring some insight on page 12 into what ANZAC Day means in 2011.

Lastly, as 3008 approaches our 5th birthday, we have made a couple of changes here and there and there may

be a few more in the pipe works in the months ahead - we love surprises!! And speaking of surprises, we would love to share our birthday celebrations with our community. Whether you live, work or visit Docklands or someone you know is celebrating a special milestone, birthday, anniversary, engagement, promotion or new addition to the family (2 legged or 4!) during May, send me an email, we would love to include you in our next issue!

Happy April!

publishers Susan Riley {susan@melbournemedia.com.au} William Rowe {williamr@3008docklands.com.au}

editor Lisa Quittner {editor@3008docklands.com.au}

magazine enquiries info@3008docklands.com.au

design Luke Rynderman {art@3008docklands.com.au}

advertising Sarah Rossato 0405 318 461 {sales@3008docklands.com.au}

Susan Riley {susan@melbournemedia.com.au}

cover Cyndi Lauper

contributing writers Tom Elliott, Tahlia Mandie, Andrew Hewison, Roman Hecht, Nicole Hutcheson, Rebecca Howden, James Hicks.

This magazine has a distribution of 10,000 connecting businesses and residences in the Docklands, Southbank and parts of the City.

Events this April 4-5

Artist in Residence - Dock Hearts 8

Cyndi Lauper Exclusive Interview 10-11

The Modern Face of ANZAC Day 12

Arj Barker - Melb Int. Comedy Festival 15

April School Holiday Feature 17-19

Laughter is the Best Medicine 15

Hannah Gadsby - Melb Int. Comedy Festival 22

Cirque du Soleil - Saltimbanco 23

Paving a Financial Future 24

Ice Hockey World Championship 30

Docklands Map 34

CONgRATuLATIONS! to the winners of our March competitions:

Agnes giacobbeJulie CollingsSilvy JohnTrevor Combridgedavid BarnesSusan MouldAmbrose & Jo Nitural

danielle Espositogaye LewisNicola TrifaAdam Page Roger BuckinghamCatherine Seto

published by

Magmedia Pty Ltd ABN 69 118 720 960, Registered Office: Suite 3, 15-17 Pakington St, St Kilda VIC 3182 Ph: (03) 8506 9908 Fax: (03) 9525 3944

3008docklands welcomes any contributions from our readers. Please send material to the above address.

3008docklands is a free publication and is distributed through selected outlets. Views expressed in 3008docklands do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editor or publisher. No responsibility is accepted by 3008docklands for the accuracy of the advertisements or information within the publication. All material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled “Not for publication”. After two calendar months uncollected prizes will be claimed by 3008docklands and may be re-drawn.

No part of this publication may be recorded, stored in a retrieval system or reproduced in any form without permission of The Publisher. The Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this publication. The opinions in this publication do not necessarily represent the views of The Publisher.

Last month’s answer:Dodgems at Wonderland Fun Park

Winner: Rachelle Winn

JOIN uS NOW ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/pages/ 3008-docklands-Magazine

www.3008docklands.com.au

Twitter.com/3008docklands

Lisa Quittner editor@3008docklands.com.au

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EVENTS

Pay homage to Australia’s fallen this ANZAC Day. The Dawn Service commences at 6am with the Sanctuary open after completion of the service at approximately 6:45am followed by the annual ANZAC Day March from 9am. Show your appreciation and respect to our veterans for their service and defence of our nation, and honour their sacrifice and resilience. The Shrine of Remembrance Visitor Centre and Crypt will be open from 9am - 5pm.

When: Monday 25 AprilWhere: Shrine of RemembranceFurther Info: 9661 8100Web: www.shrine.org.au

DeSeRT ISLAND FLICkS

ACMI plans to strand more legends on a metaphorical desert island in the popular monthly program Desert Island Flicks - and instead of 5 discs they can only take 5 flicks! In April ‘castaway’ and indie darling Clare Bowditch is a special guest revealing her own insight and personal story behind her top five films as well as show clips from the only films she could pack if banished to a desert island.

Castaway with Clare Bowditch unclassified 15+ When: Tuesday 19 April at 7pmWhere: ACMI - Federation Sq, MelbourneTickets: Full $14Web: www.acmi.net.au

LA MIRADA FILM FeSTIVAL

The WooLSheD PuB - DoINg IT FoR The kIDS

The fabulous La Mirada Film Festival returns to ACMI this April, presenting the best and most exciting new Spanish and Latin American films of the last twelve months plus a breathtaking selection of Spanish film classics selected by some of the world’s finest filmmakers. La Mirada is delighted to announce that the infamous Antonio Banderas will be joining oscar Winner Ang Lee, Mexico’s guillermo Del Toro and england’s ken Loach as guest curators for La Mirada 2011.

The Woolshed Pub is staging a fun filled day for the whole family on good Friday, in support of The good Friday Appeal. This is a unique fundraising activity which raises much needed funds for the Royal Children’s hospital. With great food and drink, a petting zoo, giveaways, competitions and more, it will be a great way to spend the day with the family, whilst helping out this very worthy cause. All profits and donations raised will go to the Royal Children’s hospital.

When: 14 - 26 AprilWhere: ACMI - Federation Sq, MelbourneBookings: www.acmi.net.au/ticketing.htm Web: www.lamirada.org.au

When: Friday 22 April from 11am Where: Central Pier161 harbour esplanade, Docklands Web: www.woolshedpub.com.au

22 April

25 April

19 April

hoNouRINg SeRVICe AND SACRIFICe

14 ~ 26 April

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EVENTS

The Baby & Toddler Show offers a first-class mix of exhibitors, expert advice and free children’s entertainment. Visitors will have exclusive access to over 150 top and boutique brands showcasing their latest pregnancy, baby & toddler products. The newest innovation - Advice hub - will give visitors the chance to have a confidential discussion with a range of pregnancy and parenting experts for free. And this year there is even the chance to win a brand new Volvo V60 Sportwagon!

Come along and help raise funds for the good Friday Appeal at Wonderland Fun Park. kids will have a ball meeting the easter Bunny and enjoying lots of easter eggs, balloons, face painting and roving performers. All proceeds from this special day will go directly to the good Friday Appeal to support the wonderful services at the Royal Children’s hospital. This is a day of family fun while helping children in need.

Are you, or is someone you know celebrating a milestone birthday or special event during May? As we celebrate our 5th Birthday, we would love to hear from you and share our celebratory month. If you would like to be included in a special feature please contact Lisa to share your story. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, engagement, anniversary, new baby, promotion or some other big news we would love to share our celebrations with the community.When: 8 - 10 April, 2011

Where: Royal exhibition BuildingCarlton gardens Tickets: At the door $20, childrenunder 14 freeWeb: www.babyandtoddlershow.com.au.

When: Friday 22 April from 11amWhere: Wonderland Fun Park120 Pearl River Rd, Docklands Web: www.wonderlandfunpark.com.au

Let us know by: 10 April 2011Contact Lisa: editor@3008docklands.com.auRequirements: A written submissionand photo

PILATeS FoR MuMS AT DoCkLANDSPilates is an innovative and dynamic system of exercise, incorporating a series of gentle, muscle strengthening exercises. Jane Casson, a former Australian Ballet Dancer and esteemed international performer and new Mum, brings Pilates for Mums to Docklands. With 13 years Pilates training, Jane invites mothers of all ages and stages to improve flexibility and posture, increase core strength and gain long, lean muscles with an all over body workout developed by the legendary physical trainer Joseph Pilates.

When: Wednesday Nights 7.30pm - 8.30pmWhere: The hub80 harbour esplanade, Docklands Cost: $15 casual class, 5 x classes $70,10 x classes $135To Register: Contact Jane 0432 252 278Web: www.pilatesformums.com.au

8 ~ 10 April

Wed nights 7.30pm

22 April

The BABy & ToDDLeR ShoW

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IMPORT LANE

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B O O K S H O P O P E Nat The Harbour Family and Children’s Centre

children’s book titles, parenting books plus quality toys and CDs.

Liz, the bookshop manager is an early childhood specialist and is on hand to answer your parenting questions. We are open Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.30pm.

1 Seafarer Lane Victoria Harbour Docklands 03 8624 1000www.gowrievictoria.org.au

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Victoria harbour Talks is a newly created website designed to provide general information on the Victoria harbour development & capture the questions and feedback from residents, workers and visitors. Please visit www.victoriaharbourtalks.com.auand complete the brief pool survey for your chance to win one of ten $50 Myer gift vouchers. The survey closes onFriday 8th April. The pool survey is part of a research and feasibility study Lend Lease is currently conducting as part of the updated masterplan for Victoria harbour.

ARe you INTeReSTeD IN The FuTuREdEVELOPMENT PLANSFoR VICTORIA HARBOuR?Destination Docklands recently announced

the winners of the “Visit Docklands and Win a Trip to London” competition.

Alyssa Novitski from Ringwood was awarded the first prize of a trip to London for 4 including airfares, accommodation and spending money to the value of $13,000 for her imaginative concept for a Docklands board game.

“With shopping and food and fun galore There’s so much to do you’ll come back for more A game for all ages so drop all your plans As we take you on a tour of our favourite docklands!”

Mario Chrisanthou won a fabulous stay at Docklands Melbourne Grand Mecure, a dinner for four at James Squire Brewhouse and a family pass to Wonderland Fun Park taking second prize for his rhyme outlining everything his family loves about Docklands:

“Our family likes variety, docklands - place to be, Easily accessible! City Circle tram transports us FREE Kids visit Icehouse! Wonderland! Mini golf too, Mum adores outlets - many bargains to pursue! When time to retire, family enjoys waterfront dining, Abundance of food choices, prevents kids whining!! 100% satisfaction, World class attraction!”

Third prize of a dinner for four at the James Squire Brewhouse and a family pass to Wonderland Fun Park went to Michael Ward for his rhyme:

“Friday night’s the footy The waterfront’s aglow The bars are hopping, restaurants packed docklands: the place to go! Saturday we’re back again The kids yell, “Wonderland!” Sunday, time for shopping

(Therapy you understand) docklands makes our weekend docklands is a treat For fun that’s family friendly docklands can’t be beat!”

dESTINATION dOCKLANdS ANNouNCeS PRoMoTIoN WINNeRS The $3.5 million production of Xanadu the

Musical at Docklands will end its season two weeks earlier than originally planned with the final performance taking place on April 10th.

Producer Mark Pennell said that due to the abundance of large scale theatre productions and musicals happening around Melbourne at the moment it had become difficult to compete.

The show is entertaining and filled with the songs every ONJ and Xanadu die-hard fan will revel in, with an outstanding performance in particular from the show’s lead, Christie Whelan. This is literally your last chance to see the show under the big top at Docklands, so get in quick!

www.xanaduthemusical.com.au

XANAdu SkATeSAN eARLy exIT

An exhibition of over 100 fine Australian Aboriginal paintings and artefacts extending from the 1970’s until the current day, created by Past Masters and the Emerging Generation of artists who represent the future of Aboriginal Art in Australia.

Sarrita King, the 23 year old daughter of First Generation artist William King Jungula (dec), is an exciting and innovative young mixed-media Aboriginal artist who is passionate about her culture and her art and will open the exhibition and discuss the unique painting created to represent this exhibition, ‘Celebration of My Country’ - a work started by her father before his death and recently completed by Sarrita and her sister Tarisse - a true collaboration of the first two generations.

Sarrita and her sister Tarisse have exhibited in Australia and overseas and appeared in the 2009 Channel 9 television series ‘The

Apprentice’ where their art was the most highly sought of all the works exhibited and sold. Sarrita was recently a featured artist and narrator for the Channel 10 documentary ‘ORIGINAL ART’ - another challenge in which she excelled.

When: April 2 - May 29, 2011

Where: Hilton Melbourne South Wharf- all day, every day Established & Emerging Aboriginal Artists from the second generation

Where: Red Desert Dreamings Gallery Level 4, Hilton Melbourne South Wharf Founders & first generation painters of the Central and Western Desert Art Movement 10am - 5pm daily or ‘by appointment’

Enquiries: 9690 0222gallery@reddesertdreamings.com.au www.reddesertdreamings.com.au

Presented by Red desert dreamings gallery together with Hilton Melbourne South Wharf and OzLink Entertainment

dREAMTIME MASTERSThe FIRST TWo geNeRATIoNS

Image Credit: ‘Celebration of M

y Country’ by William

king Jungula (dec) &

Sarrita king

NoMINATe NoW FoR The 2011 MELBOuRNE AWARdS

WILL WHEEL IN MOTION geT DoCkLANDS oN TRACk?

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Once again Docklands is in the news for all the wrong reasons. Recently there have been numerous reports that Docklands ‘remains a disgrace’ mainly due to the grid lock of traffic along Harbour Esplanade. For most of us who have spent time crawling along behind banked up traffic especially at peak times, we would agree it has been a long and arduous process during the tram track realignment and reduction to the flow of traffic to one single lane.

Of course, it isn’t just the workers in the precinct that are frustrated, retailers and residents have long aired their complaints and aggravation to the local authorities.VicUrban believe the Harbour Esplanade works will help to transform Docklands drawing more people to the area adding that the works are on target for completion by the middle of this year.

There is some good news though that was reported in late March, stating the Southern Star Observation Wheel could soon return with a LED light show as works are well under way, is the Wheel enough to getting Docklands back on track though?

It’s been two years since the $100 million attraction was closed down after cracks were discovered in the structure, but works on the inner spokes and the reconditioning of the cabins are complete, with work on the outer spokes expected to start soon.

Education Minister, Martin Dixon is examining a report on a possible state primary school at Digital Harbour and VicUrban with the City of Melbourne have pledged $9 million for a Community Centre and Library, is this enough in the short term to get Docklands on track?

Want to share your thoughts? Email editor@3008docklands.com.au

The 2011 Melbourne Awards are open for entry with nominations encouraged from across the city. As our city’s highest accolade, the Melbourne Awards honour individuals and organisations who have made a significant contribution to Melbourne’s sustainability, community or profile.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said the Melbourne Awards are an opportunity to honour those who have worked hard to make a difference.

“The Melbourne Awards celebrate the work of those whose passion and commitment has helped shape Melbourne as one of the world’s most liveable cities.

“We encourage all who have contributed in some way to Melbourne’s profile, community or environment to enter and be recognised for their dedication to Melbourne.”

There are a total of nine categories honouring significant contributions to Melbourne’s sustainability, community and profile. These

areas are recognised within three separate divisions; individual, corporation and community.

Winners will benefit from increased media exposure for their business or cause. All entrants will have the opportunity to establish relationships with senior business leaders and gain valuable feedback from industry experts.

Entries for the 2011 Melbourne Awards close on Monday 2 May and finalists and winners, including Melburnian of the Year, will be announced on Saturday 27 August at a gala event held at Melbourne Town Hall.

www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/melbourneawards for more information or call 9658 9348.

Lord Mayor Robert doyle with 2010 Melburnian of the year, Jim Stynes

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Image Credit: “To the M

oon Alice” night and day view

By Rebecca Howden

If you need proof that Docklands has heart, a stroll through New Quay this April might do the trick. Amongst the restaurant menus and real estate postings of the shop windows, Merrin Eirth’s vibrant, phosphorescent paintings bring a new burst of life onto the street - and you can watch them as they evolve from blank canvas to completion.

Docks-Hearts is New Quay’s first street-level artist residency project, taking place in the LPC Services shop space and front window on Rakaia Way. For four months beginning on April 1st, the public will be able to view original artworks at various stages as they are created. With support from The City of Melbourne Arts Grants Program, and Docklands businessman Leo Papagiannis, who has provided the project space, Eirth developed Docks-Hearts as a possible strategy for sustaining the creative pulse of Docklands and reviving community spirit.

“The broken Southern Star Observation Wheel has become a poignant symbol of the partly broken heart of the Docklands,” Eirth says. With rows of empty shops and small businesses closing down left and right, a feeling of loss and emptiness is everywhere. “Many small businesses open and close within a few months of operation, and along with that, the growth of vital community and visitor infrastructures and services also disappear.”

But beneath the sense of abandonment is a diverse and generous culture that Eirth hopes to bring to the forefront of Docklands living. “The very nature and nomenclature of the Docks-Hearts project is antithetical to media claims that Docklands has no heart” she says.

From the Sunday Markets to iconic sculptures, seasonal light shows and independent projects in the old sheds, there is certainly a creative pulse in Docklands, yet a strong artistic presence has never quite been sustained. “The life of the Docklands languishes in a terrain of brief creative bursts, hidden art activity and season offerings” Eirth says.

For artistic culture to really thrive, Docklands needs what Eirth calls a visible continuum of creativity. “The development of an art culture in any community relies on artistic presence and visibility 24/7” she says. An artist-in-residence program provides this enduring, street-level presence, encouraging creative interaction at a grassroots level.

“Docks-Hearts aims to enrich the current paradigm with a more intimate grassroots art encounter that not only encourages a direct interactive artistic interface with the public, but also establishes an enduring, re-invigorated notion of the Docklands as a creative, lively, place where exciting ideas and images materialize into tangible realities” Eirth says.

In the long term, she says, such initiatives may help to foster a more vibrant street culture, and encourage cultural and business development in the area. “I hope to expand the project to open pathways along which other artists can embed themselves in the atmosphere of Docklands and to engage in partnerships with Docklands corporations and the local community.”

A passionate Docklands resident, Eirth has been an artist for over 35 years, and her work has been shown in profiled inner-Melbourne art galleries since the

1980s. For the past 20 years, she has also worked as a studio lecturer and art researcher at the Victorian College of the Arts, where she is currently Head of Drawing.

For this project, she will create images using phosphorescent (glow-in-the-dark) paint, which has the effect of allowing different images to be visible in different lighting. “The peculiar properties of the paint will deliver an oscillating effect between images that are hidden in daylight and then become visible in the dark, and visa versa” she says. “My images are poised on the rim of meaning, where visual coding produces controlled ambiguity.”

Community engagement is at the core of the project, and Eirth encourages interaction with her work. “I invite viewers to join me, though my pictures in progress, in celebrating Docklands and its culture,” she says. On a more direct level, she invites the public to participate in another aspect of Docks-Hearts - the interactive Magic Light Wall. This “non-permanent graffiti adventure” allows viewers to make light drawings with pocked-sized laser pointers across a surface treated with phosphorescent paint. On selected dates, the Magic Light Wall will be displayed in the front window, with laser-pointers available for public use.

The Docklands tram routes are well aligned to provide fluid movement between key inner-Melbourne cultural precincts, but while the sports and entertainment industries have made use of this link, the art industry seems to need further encouragement. Eirth hopes that eventually, establishing a greater creative presence will encourage art-enthusiasts to include Docklands in the gallery circuit between Fitzroy and the CBD.

“This could be achieved through a vibrant, embedded culture of art residencies that embrace lively new art in the making, visible at street level” Eirth says. “I sincerely hope to encourage further creative partnerships between the arts, the local community and corporate Docklands... I love my community, and I want to see it continue to flourish.”

docks-Hearts will be on display from 1st April to 31st July 2011 in the front window of LPC Services, 104/7 Rakaia Way, New Quay. The Project Launch will be at Berth Restaurant Bar Café - 45 New Quay Promenade docklands on Wednesday 13th April at 6.30pm.

For more information regarding the docks-Hearts project contact Merrin Eirth at meirth@unimelb.edu.au or mobile 0411 494 873

NeW QuAy hoSTS ARTIST IN ReSIDeNCe PRogRAM - dOCKS HEARTS

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Signal is back with a cutting edge program jam-packed with workshops and events destined to inspire, engage, and entertain the city’s next generation of creatives. Councillor Jennifer Kanis, Future Melbourne (People and Creative City) Committee Chair, said Signal gives young people the opportunity to immerse themselves in a wide range of art forms.

“Signal is a City of Melbourne initiative that gives young people access to safe, supportive and stimulating learning environments while encouraging our city’s up and coming creative talents,” Cr Kanis said.

With access to Signal’s state of the art equipment and professional artists, young people can get involved in a range of projects.

Urban Mesh Workhouse brings professional artists and young people together for an innovative and collaborative project. Over six three-day multi art form sessions from April to September, young people aged 13 - 20 years will have the opportunity to co-create works with some of Melbourne’s leading projection, hip hop, installation artists to name a few. Their works will be paraded at Urban Mesh Manifestation, a week-long show as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival this September.

Signal opens its doors to the city’s music lovers, as Youth Radio broadcasters SYN join forces with the Signal FReeZA team to present a series of live and intimate gigs featuring Melbourne’s rising talent. Treat your ears to the free gig initiative Hoist by the Tracks and support the city’s local bands every third Friday of the month until the end of 2011.

From April 12, the Peeling Workshops give Melbournians the opportunity to recognise and discover the incredible

skills and talent of the city’s young people. In response to National Youth Week, animation professional Lindsay Cox explores human emotions using shadow screen techniques and stop motion. Peeling will come to life on Signal’s innovative multimedia iGlass technology from 22 April.

Signal is dedicated to giving Melbourne’s young people the opportunity to work with professional artists across all art forms. Every year the City of Melbourne offers arts grants up to $20,000 for budding young creatives and for organisations working with young artists, with funding going towards projects held at Signal, like Lost in Transition. Pencil the application open day into your diary - 16 May.

Signal is located behind Flinders Street Station on Northbank, For the full schedule of what’s on visit www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Signal To book, visit the website or call 8696 5416.

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CyNdI LAuPER INSPIRINg AND uPLIFTINg The WoRLD ThRoughTHE MEMPHIS BLuESA 3008 EXCLuSIVEInterview by Lisa Quittner

Cyndi Lauper was the first artist to have five top ten singles from a debut album which included her mega hit ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’. Cyndi has sold 25 million albums, received 13 Grammy nominations, two Emmy Awards, two American Music Awards, and 18 MTV Video Music Awards and continues to lead as a singer, songwriter, musician, actress, and activist. With her recent album Memphis Blues, a collection of blues cover songs, she is once again reinventing herself by putting her unique twist on one of music’s most beloved genres. 3008 spoke to Cyndi exclusively in Japan on the eve of her Australian Tour.

What inspired your latest Memphis Blues Album and International Tour?

This is an album I wanted to do for the past 8 years but I ended up doing The Body Acoustic album in the meantime. There comes a point in your career that you want to pay homage to the music you have listened to and the people that have been before you. I ran into Jeff Beck at the Grammy’s in 2004 and we discussed this album as something special we wanted to do to leave behind (as part of our body of work) but the album never came to fruition. I was at odds with my record company, they just didn’t understand.

Then during the time I was doing the Celebrity Apprentice show with Donald Trump, I was doing a lot of interviews and lived on four hours sleep a night. I had formed a habit of holding my breath when I speak

which I am still working on and for a singer, the lack of sleep and not speaking properly is the worst thing you can do, and I began to lose my voice. After The Apprentice I decided that I needed to get my voice back and when I did I felt a sense of urgency to record this album before I couldn’t, I needed to do it now.

At the time I was also looking around at things happening in the United States and I realised people were hurting and the Blues is healing music. Blues music is the basis of everything in music and at the core of everything I have ever sung. I started off my career as a lead singer in a Janis Joplin cover band.

What is it about the rhythm of the Blues?

The very best part of the Blues are all the interior things that happen when you listen to it based on the interior rhythm and laying down the beat, and of course, rhythm is king!

When you start out as a young singer no one is really listening to you so as I became a better singer and started to arrange and write music, I studied more and discovered what someone like Joplin already had discovered and based her style on, the great women of Blues, like Mama Thornton, Ma Rainey, Memphis Minnie and Big Maybelle.

These women were inspiring not just because of the style of music they developed but they helped the Blues catch on and made it popular. Blues changed over time with artists like Robert Johnson but what I love about the rhythm of the Blues is that it

was written by people who were oppressed and yet they constantly wrote uplifting music. Being in Japan now it is especially important. I have used this music to ignite an uplifting sense, to lift these people to the rhythm of the Blues.

The rhythm sets people free, music is a powerful tool and we are rhythm beings, we have brainwaves, a heartbeat, a pulse which is all based on rhythm - music can change a mood and that’s the power of this style of music.

How has the Memphis Blues Tour been so far?

There are so many things that have happened on the tour so far. In South America I found myself as an airport singer. I was landing in Japan and there was an earthquake. People told me to get out and leave Japan but I couldn’t turn my back on the people that have welcomed me my whole career, so I decided to stay. The tour in Australia will be different again, as I will be joined by Charlie Musselwhite, for me as a musician and a singer to be playing with Charlie is just incredible.

This tour has been one for the books. I have been writing an autobiography but everything

seems to have come together at this point now and I feel I am living an experience on this tour which is almost folklore - you just couldn’t make this stuff up.

What do you want audiences to know about your Australian tour?

Charlie Musselwhite brings an unbelievable depth to the music along with the other phenomenal members of the band, it will be an extraordinary experience that puts this music to the test, these are not songs that I wrote but I have enthused new life into them.

Is the aim for your audiences to feel inspired and feeling the rhythm of life when they leave your concerts?

Hell yes! That’s what I will be taking away. Imagine, if we all stir together in the rhythm - the energy is out there and it can be like lightening and if we are lucky it will strike and we can all be electric together for a while.

For those that watched you on The Celebrity Apprentice (Fox8) you were fantastic, how hard was that experience for you?

It was tough, you can leave high school but

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some people just don’t. If you are different, you are always going to be different and even though I tried to blend in, I was still different.

It was fascinating watching you on the show; you have such a strong sense of self.

There were many people on the show who were not trying to be themselves, but for me running on four hours of sleep a night I just couldn’t do that, I just had to be me.

How would you describe yourself as a child growing up, what gave you such a strong sense of who you are?

Honestly, I was an extrovert but also an introvert. I always felt I had one foot in this world and one foot somewhere else and that is the way I have lived. Circumstances always made me feel like an outsider which I hated, but I realised that it is that perspective that allows you to see life more clearly.

If you are always at the centre of everything you have no overview. Although you want to fit in, desperately fit in, sometimes it’s just not going to be your thing, but this can be a gift. Your perspective as an outsider can

create a loneliness if you can’t manage and ride it, or understand it enough to heal yourself. Sometimes you can create great problems for yourself, which you can see with many writers and performers that can’t find the balance.

For me, I learned to embrace it as a blessing, so even during The Apprentice I would remind myself that it was okay to be a cast out. As a kid I failed at everything but there comes a point where you have nothing left to lose, so you realise you only have everything to gain.

Can you tell us more about your True Colours charity and why it is so important to you?

This is not an easy question. Originally I sang the True Colours song for a dear friend, Gregory that passed. He wanted me to sing a song for him like “that’s what friends are for,” I wrote a song called Boy Blue which didn’t get much radio air time so in the interim I was singing this other song, ‘True Colours’ as a healing song. In 1994 I was at Gay Pride and this guy came up to me, and

keep in mind that at that time the Rainbow Flag didn’t have the full spectrum of colours. So this guy handed me a flag and he said that he had designed it because he was inspired by my True Colours song.

During the performance that night I draped the flag around my shoulders and sang True Colours and I suddenly realised that Gregory had received his wish because his community had embraced that song as their own. That’s how music is, it inspires people and True Colours became a voice for the GLTG (Gay, Lesbian, Trans-Gender) Community.

In the U.S, 20-40% of the young homeless are GLTG who have been thrown out of home. Our children aren’t a new blouse we bought from the store that can be returned, we can’t return our children because they don’t turn out like we planned. It’s our job as parents to accept and help our children to succeed in this world and achieve great things. We don’t choose our skin colour, nor do we choose our gender or sexual orientation in this life, to vilify others on those grounds is ridiculous.

I am raising money to connect agencies to help these kids and create a safe environment to enable happy, healthy people to contribute to this world. Exclusivity makes for a weak world, inclusivity makes the world stronger!

don’t miss Cyndi in Melbourne on April 8 & 9 at the Palais Theatre

www.ticketmaster.com.au, 136 100

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By Lisa Quittner

With so many Australian military personnel deployed overseas at this time, 3008 wanted to explore the modern face of ANZAC Day and with the assistance of the Australian Defence Force, I was privileged to speak with Warrant Officer, Andrew Rowley of the Royal Australian Air Force about life in the RAAF and what ANZAC Day means to active members of the military.

Warrant Officer, Andrew Rowley’s family is from Gippsland in Victoria. He joined the RAAF in 1988 and is a senior enlisted ranking officer, currently based at the RAAF Base at Amberley in Queensland since returning from 6 months deployment in Afghanistan during 2010. Officer Rowley’s role as Warrant Officer Disciplinary (WOD) and Senior Airman for RAAF Security and Fire School, oversees the standards, behaviour, morale and welfare of his particular unit and base.

Why did you originally join the military?

I was a fire-fighter but I always wanted to join the military as well, by joining the Air Force I could combine the two.

Can you describe an average day on the Base?

It really depends on the day of the week but generally I start work at 6:30am and there might be a block inspection for the junior troops to assess the conditions of their rooms - cleanliness, hygiene and making sure standards are maintained.

On a different day we would run a unit parade for initial trade training units, which we do once a week to allow a sense of identity within the unit but to also identify with being part of a larger organisation.

What would you say is the hardest aspect of being in the military?

Depending on service requirements, it’s often the separation from your family. When you are deployed overseas on operations you can be gone for quite a while including the lead up time preparing to go, so isolation from family is difficult.

What is the most rewarding aspect?

Being part of the Service and providing a service to Australia, fulfilling a duty to my country and assisting my country to continue to be the place it is today.

What does ANZAC day mean to you personally?

ANZAC Day ties up everything together for me. It’s a time to consider all the people that have gone before me in the military and the service they provided to allow Australians the life and freedoms we enjoy. This is what we do every day. People may ask how serving in the military counts towards making Australia what is it is and the answer to that is, to consider the lifestyle we live and freedoms and choices we have. This is being provided by the people who are currently serving and who have served our country in the past.

How will you commemorate ANZAC day this year?

ANZAC Day has a lot of meaning for me. I recently returned from 6 months at Tarin Kowt Air Base which is the main Australian operating base in Afghanistan. As part of the Multinational Base Command, our role was to run Tarin Kowt so that all the units could operate effectively from there. I was also deployed to East Timor in 2000 so I feel

I am continuing the tradition of ANZAC Day through my service to Australia.

I will commemorate ANZAC Day by attending an RSL in the local area and attending an ANZAC Day March to commemorate those that have gone before me, as well as those that I have personally assisted return to Australia, who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Can you elaborate on that?

As the base WOD at Tarin Kowt I ran the returns of deceased personnel back to Australia. In my time at Tarin Kowt the units ran 25 Ramp Ceremonies (a representative from every unit at the base lines up in a show of respect all the way to the aircraft ramp where the casket is loaded for departure from Afghanistan.)

Sometimes we lose sight that it is a multi-national operation occurring in Afghanistan and while 6 Australians were killed last year, there were also many others that were based at Tarin Kowt with us that lost their lives. Whether they were part of the Afghan National Army, US Army, US Special Forces, Australian Special Forces, the Dutch, French, Singaporeans; not all nations had losses, but many did.

This must be an incredibly difficult aspect to deal with?

It’s important to show the appropriate level of respect to the member that has died and to the people that have served with that member. The Ramp and Memorial Services are not just for the deceased but for the members that must continue on. It allows a sense of closure to those that served side by side, it allows them to show their respect as the deceased embarks on their journey home.

Then there are the corresponding services run in Australia to also pay respect and give members of the unit, Defence Force and of course the families some kind of closure.

The dawn Service commences at 6.00am - 6.15am at the Shrine of Remembrance.

Official Wreath Laying Service commences at 8.15 - 8.30am.

ANZAC day March commences at 9am at the corner of Swanston Street and Flinders Street.

ANZAC day Commemoration Service is held between 1pm - 1.30pm at the Shrine.

Warrant Officer Andrew Rowley (left)

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L’ORÉAL MELBOURNE FASHION FESTIVAL FLAIR SHINES AT CENTRAL PIER The L’Oréal Melbourne Festival brought sensational designers, talent and celebrities to the catwalk at Peninsula on Central Pier from March 14 - 20.

Images are courtesy of M

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Photography, w

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Melissa george

designer Alex Perry with Megan galeAndie Macdowell

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There are many different variations of gnocchi some of which uses many different variety or types of flour, from semolina to strong flour, both of which works but would mostly be dense, heavy or starchy. This particular recipe is light, fluffy and dumplings like texture.

SERVES 4

INgREdIENTS

500 grams of waxy potatoes 250 grams of self raising flour 3 eggs Salt 30ml olive oil Extra flour

METHOd

1. First peel the potatoes, then place on the pot submerge in water then bring to the boil.

2. Once the potatoes are soft, strain then place on the mixing bowl while it still hot. (It’s best to make the mixture while it’s hot, once it cools it is more difficult to roll and may become too dense)

3. With a perforated spoon crush the potatoes until its smooth and free from lumps then incorporate the flour, eggs and salt to taste then combine until it forms a smooth dough.

4. Add the olive oil then divide the dough in to four parts and set aside.

5. Roll each dough on a floured board length ways to about the thickness of your thumb then with a plastic bowl scraper cut the dough to about centimetres dumpling.

6. Place all the cut dough on a flat ray

dusted with the extra flour to avoid from sticking together and do not pile up together.

7. Once all cut, place the gnocchi on a large pot of boiling salted water a small portion at a time.

8. Wait until the gnocchi rises to the top then wait two minutes to ensure that the gnocchi is thoroughly cooked.

9. Once the gnocchi is cooked toss with a desired sauce like a napolitana or a Bolognese sauce.

10. Serve with parmesan cheese.

Recipe courtesy of The Italian Brasserie

Cecil St @ South Melbourne Market is a great place to meet friends, dine, listen to live music and relax under the umbrellas alfresco-style. The perfect destination for after work drinks or dinner from Thursday - Saturday nights. Feast on famous paella and sangria, home-cooked Italian dishes and vino, or BBQ swordfish and Turkish mezze or perhaps a margarita under the stars is more your thing.

For your chance to win one of three dinner and drinks packages for 2 people to the value of $100 - email winsmm@portphillip.vic.gov.au with the subject line ‘dOCKLANdS’ by April 15 to WIN! dinner available at participating restaurants only and bookings essential. By entering you are providing your data to the South Melbourne Market. Comp winners will be notified by email by April 20.

ReCIPe FoR gNOCCHI

WIN A DINNeR FOR 2

In mid March the official launch for NAB staff in the NAB Schools First initiative, a $15M 3 year awards programme that celebrates school and community partnerships, was held at Docklands.

one of the winning school’s partnerships from 2010 was based around learning how to play chess, so this year a chess-off was organised with NAB staff and random passers-by encouraged to challenge the kids to a game.

The event was a lot of fun and it looked like the kids gave the grownups quite a challenge with some seriously perplexed facial expressions sighted.

The Docklands community is encouraged to find out more about NAB Schools First and encourage those working in, or with children of school age to encourage their schools to take part and apply for a share in this year’s $5 million.

NAB Schools First is brought to life by NAB in partnership with The Foundation for young Australians and the Australian Council for educational Research. More than 20% of Australian schools have submitted applications for an award in the first two years of the NAB Schools First program - confirming there is a need for the support and recognition that the program provides .

NAB Schools First enters its third year in 2011 with 110 awards and $5 million available to outstanding school-community partnerships. This year, there will be 60 Impact Awards with an increase in the number of Seed Funding Awards from 40 to 50. To date, 195 Australian schools have shared in $10.15 million.

Applications will open online on Monday, 20 June and close on Friday, 29 July. Visit www.schoolsfirst.edu.au

NAB LAuNCheSSCHOOLS FIRST INITIATIVe AT dOCKLANdS

ARJ BARKER PReSeNTS eLeVeNSoMeTIMeS 10 JuST ISN’T eNough!

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By Lisa Quittner

Arj Barker returns to Melbourne with his new show, Eleven, featuring an hour of the inventive stand-up comedy for which he is known and loved. Arj fearlessly tackles 11 of the most controversial topics around, including 3D movies, death, Google Maps and prawns. 3008 spoke to Arj about his upcoming April shows at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

How did Eleven come to life and what prompted you to address these particular controversial topics?

As this will likely be my last new show for a little while, I made an effort to reach a little deeper this year, and share a little more of my personal views and also some slightly embarrassing confessions concerning my proclivity towards role-playing in the bedroom. (You will have to see the show to find out more.)

Has your material ever been recycled by another comedian and if so, would you be flattered or peeved?

Unfortunately I have had a joke stolen once or twice, and it’s a very bad feeling.Once it was by a very famous comedian in Denmark, and the other time it was by a very well known comedian in the UK. In both cases, I was the underdog because I was not nearly as well-known as they were, and it feels really bad because there isn’t much you can do when you are in that position. I just hope there is an especially hot place in hell reserved for joke thieves because it is very low thing to do. They are scum. But, as someone once said “resentment is like drinking poison and hoping the other person gets ill.” I really like this quote and try to live by it.

Was there a moment you remember in your life when you thought, “hey, I’m pretty funny; I could make a career out of this”?

Not really. I basically tried doing standup comedy on a whim, and didn’t really expect to have a future in it. But it was so incredibly fun and I would say I was instantly addicted that I’ve haven’t stopped since. That was about 20 years ago.

you are a favourite with Australian audiences, I believe you have released dVd’s and performed your tour shows here before the uS, does that mean that Australians are a good sounding board to test material on for universal appeal or are we just easily entertained?

I don’t know exactly why, but my humour does seem to resonate well with the audiences here. Therefore, my career progressed far more quickly in Australia than anywhere else, including my own country. That is the simple fact, and that is why I have released more DVDs here than anywhere else. I didn’t plan it this way, but I feel pretty lucky, as this is probably one of the best countries to be popular in, for many reasons. I will let you guess what the reasons are, (and not JUST the girls!!)

you are a stand out of the stand ups each year at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF), how do Melbourne audiences rate?

Melbourne audiences are tremendous. They are also very well experienced at watching comedians and they have high expectations. They know good comedy when they see it and they will not settle for less. I accept this challenge, and I stand before them, humbled, and ready to crush it!

How does the MICF rate in comparison to other international festivals?

I may be wrong about this, but I believe the MICF is the second largest dedicated comedy festival in the world assuming the Montréal Comedy Festival is the largest. Not that that makes it good or bad, but it’s pretty cool to be a part of that year after year. I get such a buzz when I see the throngs of people lining up and down Swanston Street. It’s one of my favorite times of the year and I’m very happy to be returning again.

Sadly, I may not be at the festival in 2012 because I feel I need to take a year to look at other areas of my life and potentially other projects in my career. However, I will never be far away from returning to perform at the MICF if I have any say in it!

5 for the File:

What makes Arj Barker laugh?

I’m probably the last person to see it but I really enjoyed the TV series called ‘Eastbound and Down’, which I recently watched on DVD. That really made me LOL Hard!

What makes Arj Barker cry?

Once again, probably the last person to see it but I finally saw the movie Shine with Geoffrey Rush and I cried so much I had to take a picture of myself on my iPhone so that I could send it to certain a people to prove that I have emotions.

What makes Arj Barker’s heart beat faster?

Well, jogging. What else? Turbulence on small airplanes makes my heartbeat but in an unhealthy way, sort of a ‘oh my God I’m actually going to die today’ way. I never get used to it even after so many years of extensive travelling. I’m not so bad on larger planes but unfortunately it costs too much to charter an A380 applied to the gig at Horsham.

do you have a taboo topic in your stand up?

Not really. However, I would probably refrain from doing any joke which I felt would be particularly hurtful to any individual or group of people, because I don’t feel that is necessary to get a laugh and I can certainly write a joke which will not upset people, and that is the best outcome. On the other hand, if I write something and it’s really, really funny but maybe pushes the line a little bit, I’ll probably still do it. At least a couple times to see what happens.

Will you ever call Australia home?

I already do call Australia home, if only my second home. I certainly spend enough time here to not only call it home, but feel at home. I have many good friends here, and I feel pretty damn comfortable here thanks to the kindness of the people.

until 24th April (not Mondays)

Melbourne Town Hall - Main Room Tickets: From $38 - $42 Bookings: www.comedyfestival.com.au or 1300 660 013

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ROMAN’S VIEWAN AuTuM VIBE COMES TO dOCKLANdS

As we head into April, there’s plenty to see and do, and with Easter fast approaching, it’s hard not to feel the urge to get out there and experience all that’s new at Harbour Town and Docklands.

There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained during school holidays. The Easter Bunny hopping around giving away Easter Eggs, face painting, and the Lego Creative Building Event, as well as the amazing Dinosaurs Alive! Exhibition, open daily from 10am to 5pm at Waterfront City Piazza. Tickets can be purchased at the venue, or in advance through Foxtix.

Village Street, with its cosmopolitan alfresco dining, expresses true flexibility, with plans underway to make it the centre piece for the Victoria Harbour corporate dining precinct. There’s no wonder, with company such as The Nine Network, Myer, National Foods and VicUrban, it’s a place that’s on the move.

A genuine passion for good food, great wine and the perfect blend of style and sophistication, Bob’s Steak & Chop House promises to deliver an amazing dining experience, with the level of service set to be the main feature of the restaurant. During preparations for the grand opening set for mid April 2001, I spoke with Sanjay Chimnani, Managing Director and Shine Dighe, Manager of Communications and Marketing.

I was told the restaurant will focus on attention to detail, excellent customer service, dealing with local produce, and a wine list that not only celebrates local, but interstate wine growers as well. Bob’s Steak & Chop House, has seating for up to 245 guests with tables and chairs spilling out onto the beautifully paved area, allowing it to be flooded with sunlight for the lunch time period. With the ability to see what’s cooking in the kitchen as

you walk alongside Village Street, it’s bound to tempt you in for a closer look.

In Romans View: With so many new and exciting developments set to evolve over the coming year, there’s so much to be celebrated at docklands this month. Enjoy your April.

Roman is Customer Service Supervisor at Harbour Town’s Tourism Lounge and a regular 3008 contributor

info@harbourtown.com.au www.harbourtownmelbourne.com.au www.foxtix.com.au

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PuT oN youR hAPPy FeeT!Don’t miss all the toe-tapping fun as “Happy Feet” live shows kick off at Melbourne Aquarium this school holidays!

Join superstars Mumble and Gloria as they sing and dance their way through different styles of music and rhythm to help Mumble find his “Groove”.

With four live shows daily at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm, it’s a great way for the whole family to get involved, with high-energy, interactive performances and even the chance to win a special Happy Feet prize!

The fun doesn’t stop there, with the opportunity to meet the characters at the end of each show, special talks and presentations throughout the aquarium’s four amazing worlds, and of course the chance to visit our very own Antarctic King and Gentoo penguins.

NEW School Holiday Kid’s Club at Melbourne Aquarium!Don’t know what to do with the kids these school holidays? Bring them to the aquarium for the new Kid’s Club program, an action-packed day out including a full educational tour, with an exclusive look at the behind-the-scenes areas, art and craft activities, and the chance to meet aquarium aquarists and keepers.

When: 9 - 26 AprilWhere: Melbourne AquariumCnr Flinders & King Street’s, Melbourne Visit: www.melbourneaquarium.com.au for further information or call 03 9923 5980.

gASWoRkS hoLIDAy PRogRAMS

At Gasworks, holidays are all about having fun and this coming April school holiday period is no exception. With a terrific action packed program on offer with plenty of crazy creative workshops, a special family night of cinema and two fabulous performances.

The program starts with a season of The Night Zoo, brought to magical life with puppets, dance and animation (and a light sprinkling of manure), by Western Australia’s Spare Parts Puppet Theatre. Other live show is a rollicking, hand-clapping, sing-a-long pantomime version of the well-loved children’s story Goldilocks and the 3 Bears.

On April 9 the Gasworks Backyard Cinema is screening, the family favourite Toy Story 3. So take a picnic, a blanket (and the family dog if you have one) and enjoy some communal movie watching under the stars!

The workshop program includes some popular favourites where you can learn the finer points of fencing, magic and animation and also “get it on” with some Gangster Hip Hop or “mix it up” with The Glee Club and even “put it together” with Crazy Robots and Metal Bugs”.

Where: 21 Graham Street, Albert Park VIC 3206Program Info: www.gasworks.org.au

DINoSAuRS ALIVe!After 65 million years, they’re back... Up close and personal!

Dinosaurs Alive! is a new $3 million interactive exhibition featuring seven life-like robotic moving dinosaurs who ruled the earth for more than 160 million years. Designed and built in Australia and Japan, the exhibition will be on show right through the school holidays at Docklands.

Set in a 1,200 square metre indoor forest-themed and specially lit exhibit area, Dinosaurs Alive! allows patrons to get up close to seven scale-size moving creatures, including the magnificent Stegosaurus and the mighty carnivore Tyrannosaurus Rex.

The exhibition presents wonderful learning opportunities with informative panels on climate change, flora and fauna, fossils, extinction theories, endangered species and Australian dinosaurs, as well as a Family Activity Room where kids can uncover fossils in the dig-a-fossil pits, use dinosaur stamps and piece together large dinosaur puzzles. A free dinosaur education kit is available to download from the website.

When: Now onWhere: Waterfront City PiazzaDocklands Drive, Docklands Tickets: Tickets $18.00 adult, $16.00 concession, children from $8.00 and family (2+2) $55.00. Book: www.foxtix.com.auWeb: www.dinosaursalive.tv.

STeP oNBoARD The PoLLy WooDSIDe TheSe hoLIDAyS

Step onboard the Polly Woodside to experience an amazing story at sea! Meet the crew and be assigned your special job on the ship.

A restored three-masted iron barque, and one of only two 19th century deepwater sailing ships still afloat in Australia, Polly Woodside is a must see for all ages.

Once inside make sure to visit the interactive museum and view the specially commissioned film in the purpose-built theatre and help Patch the Cat find his lost stamps!

Come down to Polly Woodside every Tuesday for fun and interactive storytelling with a wide variety of stories for little ones aged 2 - 7 years. Stories are read aboard the Polly Woodside or, in inclement weather, down below deck!

Also, don’t miss the Pirate Days on the first Sunday of each Month!

For more information visit www.pollywoodside.com.au

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Lego CReATIVe BuILDINg CoMPeTITIoN

Every child loves Lego!

In conjunction with Toyworld, Harbour Town Shopping Centre is holding LEGO building competitions over six days in April.

When: From Thursday 14 April to Tuesday 19 AprilTime: 11am - 3pmWhere: Harbour Town Shopping CentreHow to Enter: On the day participants book a time with the Event Organizer or join the queue.

Who is eligible to enter? 11.30am & 1.30pm 3 - 7 Year Olds (Boys & Girls) 12.30am & 2.30pm 8 - 14 Year Olds (Boys & Girls)

‘The SIMPSoN’S’ oN ICe AT MeDIBANk ICehouSe

Homer and Bart Simpson will add to the fun at Medibank Icehouse these school holidays, skating every day between 11.30am and 7.30pm.

There will also be a Simpsons Activity Workshop for the little kids open daily between 10am and 2pm.

The holiday program also includes live DJ’s, on-ice dancing and games, plus loads of giveaways - including Easter eggs! Skate around giant luminous eggs and adorn yourself in neon glowing trinkets as you skate with glow worms!

Dance and play on-ice games with the Easter-Glow bunny with live DJs playing your favourite tunes, or just chill out and enjoy a snow-glow cone these school holidays! Suitable for all ages.

When: April school holidaysWhere: Medibank Icehouse105 Pearl River Road, Docklands Cost: Adult $18.50, child $8 - $14.50,conc. $17, family $52. Info & session times: 1300 756 699.Web: www.icehouse.com.au

youR LAST RIDe - The RIDe oF youR LIFe!

Have you ever thought what it would be like to be buried alive, are you game enough to find out?

Black Light Mini Golf at Harbour Town Docklands, gives you the opportunity to experience Melbourne’s newest and first Coffin Ride, an innovative, unique and certainly thrilling entertainment attraction and the only one of its kind in Australia!

‘Your Last Ride’ is a motion simulated coffin ride to the grave in a wooden casket. It is a complete 4 dimensional sensory experience as you climb into the wooden casket, close the lid and let your senses guide your imagination through the ride of your life.

With a surround sound stereo soundtrack of Cockney gravediggers and synchronised air rams to replicate movements and motion, the experience is about as realistic as your imagination will allow it to be. As the Cockney gravediggers load you onto a hot rod hearse, you’ll take your final, wild ride to your grave.

Smell the roses surrounding the cemetery, the scent of the dirt as you are lowered into the ground and the stench of your slow decay as you lie in silence and darkness. The bugs and creepy crawlies attack to a unnerving crescendo, and just when you think it’s goodbye... the lid flies open to a welcome breath of fresh air.

In the pitch black silence and darkness of the coffin, not only are your friends watching you and your expressions from the outside through the special inbuilt Night Vision Coffin Cam, you can relive the experience, or embarrassing terror of your ride, which is available on DVD on request. Bravado’s and Bucks beware!

Where: Level 1, Shop 35 Star Crescent,Docklands, VIC 3008 Phone: (03) 9642-5442Website: www.coffinride.com.auEmail: info@coffinride.com.au

BoRN To Be WILD 3DWitness the incredible true story of wild orphan animals and their amazing journey home in the spectacular new IMAX 3D adventure - Born to be Wild 3D, opening at IMAX Melbourne Museum these school holidays.

Born to be Wild 3D, a new film narrated by four time Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman, combines breathtaking IMAX 3D footage of the remote rainforests of Indonesia and the vast deserts of Africa to tell an intimate and uplifting tale of how the power of love can give orphaned baby orang-utans and elephants a second chance at life in the wild.

Fall in love with these adorable baby orang-utans and elephants on the biggest 3D screen in the southern hemisphere during these school holidays.

Stunningly captured in IMAX 3D, Born to be Wild 3D is a heartwarming adventure transporting moviegoers into the lush rainforests of Borneo with world-renowned primatologist Dr. Birute Galdikas and across the rugged Kenyan savannah with celebrated elephant authority Dame Daphne Sheldrick. Together with their teams, they rescue, rehabilitate and return these incredible animals back to the wild.

When: From 8 AprilWhere: IMAX Melbourne Museum, Carlton GardensTickets: $18.00 Adult, $14.50 Concession,$13.50 Child, $55.00 Family Bookings: www.imaxmelbourne.com.au

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WoNDeRLAND FuN PARk PReSeNTS CoNey ISLAND FuN houSeWonderland Fun Park presents Coney Island Fun House starring International super star Sylvester the Jester - the Human Cartoon!

Sylvester the Jester - The human Cartoon will defy boundaries of three dimensional realities. As a real live cartoon, he is able to make his eyes bug out, nose, mouth tongue, head, arms morph into physically impossible shapes, distended and distorted in ways one would see on a hilarious cartoon.

Sylvester is funny - fun, exciting and geared for audiences of all ages. Watch him make crazy music with his brain. Watch steam come out of his ears. Watch him lose his head. He has to be seen to be believed!

Sylvester has been seen throughout the world, with TV appearances on NBC World’s greatest magic. Just for Laffs Comedy Central, and the BBC. A hilariously animated character with the unique knack for transporting himself and his audience into a surreal space and time where the absurd becomes wonderfully commonplace.

This is awesome kid’s comedy fun for the whole family. An unlimited ride pass includes entry to The Sylvester The Jester Show - The Human Cartoon so you can watch the show then ride all day with your unlimited ride pass - now that’s school holiday fun and value at its best.

When: Sat 9 April - 26 AprilWhere: Wonderland Fun Park120 Pearl River Road, Harbour Town, Docklands Tickets: $29.50 or 4 or more $25.00 each Unlimited ride ticket includes entry to the Coney Island Fun House Theatrette.

Times: Amusement rides open from 11.00am to 5pm DAILY - show time 1.00pm & 3.00PM Bookings: Ticketek 131 849, at the door or call 9602 1311www.wonderlandfunpark.com.au a hot rod hearse, you’ll take your final, wild ride to your grave.

SChooLS ouT AT ARTPLAy

ArtPlay’s autumn program is bursting with activities to bring out the artist, dreamer and performer in every child with magical performances, creative spaces and brand new learning experiences.

Saltbush

A highlight of the Autumn program, Saltbush is an internationally acclaimed dance and theatre work. Children are invited to explore, play and dance with the performers on touch sensitive carpet. A collaboration by internationally acclaimed Italian theatre company, Compagnia TPO and indigenous Australian artists, including renowned performer Lou Bennett.

Age: 5 years and abovedate: 2 AprilTime: 10.30am and 1pm (one hour duration)Cost: $12 per person, booking essentialVenue: ArtPlayContact: 03 9664 7900;www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/artplay

E-Artkids

Budding bloggers can become the next big thing in the arts and culture blogosphere with E-artkids. In this exciting series of workshops, a young ArtPlayer with her very own blog will share her knowledge and experience, along with reviewers from Express Media.

Age: 8 to 13 years and their parent or guardiandate: 9 AprilTime: 1pm to 3pmCost: FREE, bookings essentialVenue: ArtPlayContact: 03 9664 7900;www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/artplay

A DAy AT The CIRCuS AT NICAGreat circus workshops followed by the matinee performance of Beautifully Imperfect.

Fly, flip, spin or tumble your day away on a variety of circus apparatus. Then be inspired by NICA’s final year Bachelor of Circus Arts students as they perform in Beautifully Imperfect. NICA’s new show is a thrilling ensemble performance that combines an array of high level circus skills, athletic choreography and extraordinary acrobatics. The show features NICA’s final year students and guest artists from the Nanjing Acrobatic Troupe of China.

Autumn Holiday Program Suitable for 7 - 17 year olds

When: April 14, 19, 20Cost: $46 (one day)Enrolment is essential. Contact Short Courses: 9214 6975or info@nica.com.au Or just see the show! To book tickets to Beautifully Imperfect, visit www.nica.com.au

NgV ToP ARTS VCe 2010 exhIBITIoN

Enjoy the NGV programs relating to the Top Arts: VCE 2010 exhibition, on display at the Ian Potter Centre these school holidays.

Artcart: Top Arts allows the budding artists out there to create fantastic art on Sundays with Top Arts exhibitors. When: Sunday 3 - Sunday 17 Apr (excluding24 Apr) & school holidays Tuesday 19 - Thursday 21 April, 12 - 3pm Where: Venue Foyer, Level 3, NGV AustraliaAges 3+ Parent/carer supervision required. Cost: Free

Season Highlight: Explore the exhibition withfun wall labels with Labels for kidsWhen: 10am - 5pm, closed MondaysWhere: Venue Exhibition Space,Level 3, NGV Australia Cost: Free

Image credit: elizabeth Miller, Dreams (detail), inkjet colour photographs, (1 - 2) 30.3 x 20.3 cm (each), Williamstown high School, Williamstown.

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By Nicole Hutcheson - Kinesiology Practitioner & Instructor

We all love a good laugh with our family and friends but did you know laughter does more than just make us feel good in the moment? Laughter is actually a fantastic healing activity and is the key to good health, longevity and wellbeing. A good belly laugh can improve both our physical and mental health, and the positive effects last long after our laughter subsides.

Physically, laughter reduces the production of stress hormones, relieves tension in our body, boosts our immune system, lowers blood pressure, protects our nervous system, improves heart health and increases oxygen levels in our cells and organs. Not to mention it is a fantastic physical work out! Rolling around, uncontrollable laughter works our abdominal muscles, enhances flexibility in joints and also tones our

facial muscles, which leads to a more youthful appearance.

Laughter also allows the brain to release endorphins - our ‘feel-good’ chemicals- which promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.

There are many mental benefits of laughter too. A good laugh eases negative emotions and mental stress, adds joy and zest to life, improves our mood and helps our mind relax and recharge. It also gives us a positive and optimistic outlook on life.

A sense of humour makes us more attractive! Laughter is contagious and draws people to you. When laughter is shared, it connects people and increases happiness and joy. It strengthens intimate relationships and helps build new friendships, and is a great tool to diffuse conflict and discomfort in the workplace.

Wondering how to get started? There are many things we can do to increase

the laughter content in our days. Rent a funny movie or watch a comedy on TV. Go to the comedy festival and share a laugh with friends. Play with children. Their innocence and honesty can be hilarious!

Laughter is infectious so surround yourself with funny, playful people. If you hear people laughing, move towards them and ask “What’s funny?” People will be happy to share the joke with you.

You can even join a laughter group. There are many laughter clubs right here in Melbourne where you can share a laugh, and Laughter Yoga is becoming quite a popular way of keeping in shape.

The most important step is to stop taking yourself so seriously. Laugh at yourself and share your embarrassing moments with friends and family- give them the opportunity to laugh with you. Choose to see the funny side of things and look for the humour in a bad situation. Appreciate the irony and absurdity of life. Keep things in perspective. Ask yourself “Is this really worth getting upset over?” If all else fails, try smiling. After all, a smile is the beginning of a laugh.

Still can’t find anything to laugh about? Then fake it! The body can’t tell the difference between a real and a fake laugh and the therapeutic benefits are the same. Eventually real laughter will come naturally and you will start to appreciate how much fun life can be.

Nicole Hutcheson is a highly skilled Professional Kinesiology Practitioner, and internationally qualified Instructor. Nicole has been a docklands resident for 6 years and is a regular 3008 contributor.

www.chikinesiology.com.au or email nicole@chikinesiology.com.au

LAughTeR IS INDeeD The BEST MEdICINE

By Tahlia Mandie - Psychotherapist & Family Counsellor

Let us put the concept of perfection out the window. What is “perfect” anyway?

Children and teens need to understand that we all make mistakes and fail. Failure is something we have all experienced. But let us change this concept of “failure” to “challenge” - a term that may not be as daunting and scary to some. With the challenges we face, we all have a choice to either flounder or flourish - let the

challenging situation take over us, or we take over the situation.

Communicating our very real failures, challenges and mistakes can be the very best thing to encourage and empower our teens to choose the latter option - flourish. Their best role models are their parents.

When they see the people they admire most acknowledge their shortcomings, they are more likely to think, “Hey, mistakes are not all that bad.” They can then begin to think, “If they can overcome

challenge, so can I.” Teens need to see that they do not have to be perfect and they do not have to be the best. It is about being their best. Only they can truly answer this question, no matter what other options and thoughts come their way.

To fight their challenges and face their own disappointment, they need to be reassured that you will still love them and support them. Allow your children to fall and make mistakes. And encourage them to pick themselves up and keep on trying, loving and reassuring them the whole way.

Tahlia Mandie is a psychotherapist and family counsellor for her own private practice, direction Exploring which specialises in working with children, teens and families. She also runs workshops and presentations for parents and schools. Tahlia is a regular contributor for 3008docklands. To learn more about her work visit www.directionexploring.com.au. If you have a topic you would like Tahlia to discuss email tahlia@directionexploring.com.au

WhAT IS PERFECT ANyWAy?

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The (VERy)BIg LAugh ouTThe Melbourne International Comedy Festival is throwing a party and everyone is invited.

The VBLO is the Festival’s 25th present to the city. With the support of the State Government and Arts Victoria, the Festival will present a massive family friendly program of international and local artists every weekend and throughout the school holiday... and it is FREE.

Roving performers, big family shows, performance pitches, an amazing maze and the Speigeltent will transform Federation Square and the river precinct into a hive of fun and mystery.

Appearing at a queue near you the legendary British company - The Natural Theatre Company (UK) will bring their peculiar brand of comic-visual theatre to the streets and open spaces of Melbourne.

In a vaudevillian feast of comic proportions, The Daredevil Chicken Club street show pairs two unlikely characters - an American cheese-ball and a Russian mail-order bride - to create a ‘Las Vegas lounge meets ‘80s pop video’ style performance.

Get Lost by the dotMaze at Fed Square, in its first appearance EVER outside Britain, is a hedge-end style obstacle maze jam-packed with kooky characters that will meet and greet adults and children alike.

From Turin, Italy, a small orchestra of pranksters by the name of Brassvole will blow wind and bang percussion with reckless yet skilful abandon, and the tunes don’t end there - Chutney (UK) will be cooking up a spicy mix of soca guitars and Indian percussion alongside some electrifying dance.

In the physical theatre corner, Australian ‘boylesque’ outfit BRIEFS will flaunt some of Australia’s best circus; Canadian Duo Hoops will dazzle with their enormous hula hoop and absurdly humorous capers and Mario Queen Of The Circus (USA) will appear with a brand new show, featuring magic, acrobatics and the lovable character comedy Super Mario fans have come to expect.

The (Very) Big Laugh Out will also feature a cavalcade of local and international artists including The Amazing Mr Fish, Joel Salom, Carl-Einar Hackner, Anna Pocket Rocket, Daniel Oldaker, Asher Treleaven and many more.

The (Very) Big Laugh Out will also include FREE theatre, comedy and cartooning workshops for kids most days of the school holidays. You don’t have to be rolling in cash to be rolling on the floor laughing.

This is a free event running throughout the school holidays!

For further details visit www.comedyfestival.com.au

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By Rebecca Howden

Hannah Gadsby was the winner of the Directors’ Choice Award at the 2010 Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF) and can be seen every Wednesday night on ABC1 alongside Adam Hills In Gordon Street Tonight.

Her dry sharp wit weaved into her understated yet compelling personal stories has made her a definite favourite amongst punters, critics and fellow comedians since she first hit the comedy circuit four short years ago. 3008 set out to find out more about Hannah and Mrs Chuckles.

What’s the inspiration behind your latest show, Mrs Chuckles?

I was called Mrs Chuckles once because of my lack of humour and I have been working tirelessly since to prove otherwise.

you became a comedian ‘by accident’ when you won the 2006 Raw Comedy competition. How have your ideas about performance changed since then?

Well I can talk for longer now. After winning Raw Comedy it came as a rude shock to find I had to bang out more than just a few minutes. I am not much of a chatterbox and so I really have to find so many more words on any given day. Heaps and heaps and heaps of words. Not all of

them different. But it’s safe to say I have talked more in the last 5 years than I did in my first 5 years. Of life.

growing up in Tasmania comes up in your material a bit. How has that influenced your comedy?

I think my distinct lack of nonsense is born of my small town beginnings. I am also acutely aware of the mirth created from a mere mention of Tasmania. Of course I am going to keep mentioning that. It’s free joke card.

Is it a different experience performing in places like New york and Edinburgh, compared to Australia?

Yes. For all the obvious reasons that prompted you to ask that question. And also because I don’t speak Spanish.

Last year, you delivered an art history lecture at the NgV during the comedy festival. do you have any more plans to combine your knowledge of art with comedy in the future?

I am going to present another lecture this year during the festival. I have also made a documentary in the NGV which will air in May. I love combining comedy with art. It’s a welcome relief to make light of something other than yourself.

Is it true that you’re now also writing a book about your accident-prone history?

Yes. Hopefully it will come out next year. As I am writing it I am slowly coming to terms with just how unlucky and clumsy I am. It’s epic - War and Peace on a bike.

your comedy often touches on serious topics like mental illness. What are the challenges of walking that line between light and dark?

You stamp all over that line. Stomp, kick and spit all over it. If people don’t find it funny then they might just think I am dancing.

Some comedians talk about using humour as a cathartic process. do you relate to that at all?

I certainly do. Writing about depression forced me look at it from the outside.

This has helped me find a few more tools to cope with downers.

your recent material seems to be largely about facing challenges, from walking across England to now mastering the art of small talk. What’s the next hill to climb?

I think I need to give myself a level playing field in future. Self Improvement is exhausting.

When: until Sunday 24 April Where: Swiss House 89 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Ticket Prices: From $20-$26 Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au or Ticketmaster 1300 660 013 or at the door

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By Rebecca Howden

This April, the incredible Cirque du Soleil begins their Australian Tour with Saltimbanco, which comes from the Italian “saltare in banco” which literally means to jump on a bench. Saltimbanco began Australia’s fascination with Cirque du Soleil when the internationally-acclaimed entertainment company first toured here in 1999.

Now based in Montreal, Canada, 3008 spoke to Melbourne’s Findlay Taylor who, since 2008 has been the General Manager for the Cirque du Soleil Arena Division. He is now the Vice President of the Arena Shows for Cirque du Soleil and is responsible for business planning and overseeing the operations of all the arena shows. We had a chat to find out what’s in store for Melbourne audiences this coming May.

Saltimbanco is the longest running Cirque du Soleil touring show. What makes it such a classic?

Saltimbanco put Cirque on the map. Its combination of high level acrobatics and rocking sound track have been able to connect with audiences around the world. In many ways Saltimbanco is the “truest” circus at Cirque du Soleil and this formula still works 19 years after the show first started.

How would you describe the overall ‘mood’ of Saltimbanco?

It’s very upbeat. It’s a joyous show about having fun, about playing around. It’s a very happy show.

What are some of the highlights of the show? What’s your favourite act?

There are two standout favorites for me. Firstly the Russian swing act. It’s an incredibly dangerous act for the artists,

but very spectacular. Flying over 30ft in the air without safety lines or a net and doing flips is not something I would do! But watching it is amazing. I have probably seen the show 1000 times and still enjoy it. The second act is the finale, Bungy. Its amazingly simple in concept but the effect is stunning, a great way to end the show.

There are an astonishing number of people involved in the production of Saltimbanco. What’s involved in pulling it all together?

Having 100 people working together in harmony is no easy feat, but everyone understands their role and how it contributes to the show. We have 35 technicians permanently touring with the show and 12 staff supporting the 55 artists. Plus truck drivers, catering company and all the local staff we hire for each market. It’s a big team!

Originally, Saltimbanco was performed in a large circus tent, but it has now been configured to fit an arena show format. How else has the show developed over the years?

Artistically the show is very similar to the original Saltimbanco, the stage, music, acts are all the same. Of course over 19 years we have increased the skill of the artists and the tricks are bigger and more spectacular, but we are very conscious that whether in a big top or arena, Saltimbanco is Saltimbanco.

How has Cirque du Soleil grown as a company over the past 10 or so years you have been working there? Any major achievements or highlights?

When I joined Cirque there were 1500 employees and 6 shows around the world. Bringing a show from North America to

Australia was a major undertaking. Now we have over 5000 employees and 21 shows around the world. International transfers are normal business! This year alone, Saltimbanco will travel to 4 continents and 2 hemispheres.

Cirque du Soleil shows are an experience unlike any other. What’s the key to keeping the productions fresh and exciting?

In order for the shows to remain fresh and exciting, our creators have to be given the freedom to create this freshness. We still to this day, allow our creators the time and resources to explore all their imagination when creating a show. We start with the simplest idea and develop it into the most spectacular act. Having the resources we have allows us to take bigger risks on certain projects, but also allows us the ability to try things. Of course some don’t work, but often, when one thing fails, we see a new opportunity and often a new act!

What do you think is the main draw card bringing audiences to Cirque do Soleil shows time and time again?

When you come to a cirque show, you never quite know what to expect. And even if you see the same show, often you notice

something different each time. Subtle changes or movements can often change your perspective. We train our artists to think that tonight’s show is their last show so it should be their best. Every night we try to put on our best performance. I am convinced this translates to the audience and they notice the quality, night after night.

Cirque du Soleil comes to Melbourne this May, tickets are on sale now through Ticketek 132 849 Or visit www.cirquedusoleil.com

CIRQuE du SOLEIL’S SALTIMBANCo ReTuRNS To MeLBouRNe

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You’re a young professional earning a decent wage, but the world appears to be a minefield. The cost of living is going through the roof and although you’d like to start building an asset base it seems all your money disappears as soon as it comes in.

In this article I would like to look at a simple plan to begin building wealth -

1. BuDgeTINg: It’s boring and entirely uninteresting, but too important to ignore. I personally could not get by without mine.

Steps: Consider your major expenses throughout the year, car rego/insurance/fuel, rent + bills, food ext. Using a budget spreadsheet, begin mapping them out. Then spend a month tracking your everyday spending, for example: social expenses, fitness, hobbies ext

Benefits: It’s simple, you now know where your money goes. You can now determine what your savings capacity is and potential areas to cut back to increase your savings ability.

2. SAVINgS PLAN: Ok, so you establish you have a savings capacity. In order to protect your surplus income, consider opening a high interest earning bank account and arrange a direct debit into that account.

3. DeTeRMINe youR FINANCIAL goALS:Break them up into 1,2 and 5 year time frames. Some people look forward based on their savings capacity. Some have a particular goal in mind which they then use to adjust their budget/savings plan to ensure they can achieve the goal.

4. INVeST: There are many options available. Purchasing shares and/or property are very common if your time

frame to invest is 5+ years. This allows for any short term declines to be offset by longer term capital gains.

Property - My advice here is to be realistic with your calculations and do not over extend yourself. Factor in stamp duty, rates, conservative rental return (if an investment), body corporate if an apartment and an average mortgage interest rate of 8% p.a.

Shares - When owning a share you in fact own a small piece of a company. The idea being that over time that company will grow its profits and increase in value.

Shares allow you to start small and contribute savings to grow your portfolio over time. They are often used as a wealth creation tool in the process of saving for a property purchase.

A key element to investing is diversification. If you are researching shares yourself or seeking advice, ask about a Listed Investment Company (LIC). It is one company listed on the stock exchange that invests in many other listed companies.

TIPS:

• If you plan to spend your savings on something in particular, property for example, within 5 years, be very careful of investing in assets that could fall in value in the short term.

• Do your research and understand what you are investing in. If you do not understand what you are investing in, do not invest!

6. SuPeRANNuATIoN: Trust me, come retirement it will be a key factor of your wealth position. Compare your

super returns and fees verses others in the market. As a general rule, industry super funds tend to have comparable fees but lower fees.

If you happen to have $200,000 plus in super (individually or as a couple) you could consider a self managed super fund, but professional advice should be sought with this.

In order to improve your financial planning knowledge go to http://www.moneysmart.gov.au.

Andrew Hewison is director and a Certified Financial Planner with Hewison & Associates Wealth Management: Level 4, 102 Albert Road, South Melbourne Ph: 9682 1900 www.hewison.com.au

PAVINg A FINANCIALFuTuRe…

Servcorp Business Shorts provides an information evening and a local networking opportunity for like-minded business professionals.

In April, Servcorp Business Shorts will welcome: Thomas haynes, Senior Investment Consultant of Metis Property. Thomas will discuss three under-utilised strategies to build or preserve passive wealth.

For time-poor entrepreneurs and professionals, the never-ending pressure to generate active wealth means that most of us neglect often simple and effective strategies to build or preserve our passive wealth. In this illuminating presentation, Thomas will run through three often overlooked strategies that can be surprisingly easy to implement, yet generate substantial passive gains over time. These are not get rich quick strategies but genuine steps that each of us can take to improve our underlying financial position.

When: Wednesday 6 AprilWhere: ServcorpLevel 27, 101 Collins Street, Melbourne Welcome drinks: 5:30pmPresentation: 6pmRSVP: melbournebusinessshortsapril.eventbrite.com Web: servcorp.com.au

Too BuSy To MAKE MONEy!

Thomas Haynes of Metis Property

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The top end of the property market continues to show strength at Mirvac’s Yarra’s Edge development in Melbourne Docklands.

Touted “Millionaires Row”, Yarra’s Edge’s exclusive River homes precinct saw its previous August 2010 record sale of $6.35M surpassed in February when a waterfront home and berth in the final stage sold for $6.5M.

This luxury home was one of only two special ‘Fiume (River) designs’ remaining in the development. The spectacular home was sold off the plan and enjoys

direct north facing aspect, with uninterrupted city views across the Yarra.

River precinct’s exceptional terrace homes have also seen strong interest with the 4 bedroom Terrace display being sold for an impressive $2.395M in March.

Further up the river, apartments at Mirvac’s luxury Yarra Point tower are in high demand with over $100M worth of exchanges having occurred since its launch in October last year. Construction of the building commenced in February with 7 sales occurring since, taking the total of apartments sold to an impressive

60%, including 7 luxury 3 bedroom Sky Residence on the penthouse levels with a median price of $1.7M.

John Carfi CEO Mirvac Victoria said “The strong interest in prestige property is very encouraging. The ongoing sales activity and interest in our luxury developments is a vote of confidence in the product, the location and Mirvac’s reputation for quality living.”

Over the past month Mirvac Developments in Victoria have exchanged a total of approximately $20M worth of real estate balanced evenly between the inner city

luxury market and its house and land business in Melbourne’s South Eastern suburbs.

Mirvac Development Victoria CEO John Carfi said. “We are delighted at this strong start to 2011 and the new record set at River precinct. We look forward to continued momentum at Yarra Point and our other Victorian developments with the launch of the final stage at River precinct and the launch of a display at Laureate in Albert Park this month.”

www.mirvac.com

STRONg SALESCoNTINue oN The yARRA

By Tom Elliott

Last month the Gillard-led federal government decided to break an election promise and impose a carbon tax on the Australian community. While this tax’s exact form is yet to be hammered out, early indications are that carbon will be priced between $25 and $40 per tonne, this amount will be paid mainly by large emitters such as coal-fired power stations and heavy industry and compensation will be paid to some households and businesses.

Without getting into the whys and wherefores of either the true extent of manmade global warming, or the breaking of key election promises, the government’s plan to compensate groups makes very little sense. Unlike most taxes that are designed to provide public revenues

for all the many areas of spending to which governments commit themselves, this carbon tax has as its main aim the changing of behaviour with respect to emissions. Thus, if electricity prices rise as a result, households will have a greater motivation to switch off lights when they’re not being used; if petrol becomes even more expensive, presumably more of us will cycle or catch public transport to work rather than taking the car. In this sense, the carbon tax would function like the excise on cigarettes, which has the stated goal of reducing the incidence of smoking.

Yet despite the desire to change people’s behaviour regarding carbon dioxide emissions, Prime Minister Gillard has said that every dollar collected under the proposed carbon tax will be returned

to various groups via compensation. Presumably this means that a low income household whose power bill goes up by, say $200 per annum, will receive from the government a handout for the same amount - thus removing any motivation for said household to reduce its electricity usage in response to the tax.

For the carbon tax to achieve the result of lowering Australia’s collective emissions, some pain in the form of higher power prices, increased fresh food costs and more expensive airplane tickets (to name but a few) has to be inflicted on a majority of the population. Simply creating a merry-go-round of money where big emitters are taxed, higher prices are imposed on other businesses and households, who then receive the full amount raised by the

tax back in compensation will do little for total emissions (although it will swell the Canberra-based bureaucracy in charge of the system).

It might be politically difficult to swallow, but the Prime Minister needs to come clean with the electorate and explain the carbon pain is on the way. Otherwise there’s absolutely no point proceeding with what would amount to a tax with no real purpose.

Tom Elliott is Managing director of MM&E Capital Ltd, a Melbourne based hedge fund. MM&E Capital Ph: 9601 4515 www.mmecapital.com.au

Why COMPENSATION FoR The CARBON TAX IS SILLy

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In the last issue of 3008 Docklands Magazine we discussed how the Virtual Office platform can help grow your business into a strong international brand. Being so much more than simply a ‘location’, the solutions which a virtual office provides can actually form a solid part of your business, one you will ultimately come to rely on. From a staffing perspective, you have a receptionist and a PA at your disposal; from a procedural point of view, your calls, faxes, mail and meetings are all processed; and on an appearance level, you have a professional and centrally-located office to meet and greet clients.

However, what we haven’t yet touched upon is the virtual solution from a technological point of view...

Especially useful for start-up businesses, is a virtual office that can provide you with the infrastructure and business tools of large multinational conglomerate, but without the cost. One of the major setbacks for a new business are the financial implications of setting up an office from scratch, but Servcorp Virtual Office gives you access to a suite of online management telecommunications services within the global market for a local cost.

This IT and communications solutions allows you to manage your business in real time using Servcorp’s Online platform from any location, at anytime. It is also run across a global shared platform, which not only means it’s reliable but means you have access to certain global services that personal office IT solutions don’t give you.

An exclusive offering is that this platform also gives you a control over how your dedicated receptionist manages your messages and relays information. This can be managed by accessing your

Servcorp Online account via the web or using the Servcorp iPhone or iPad application.

You will also have access to the Servcorp Onefax, which is an easy-to-use, online fax-to-email technology. This streamlines business processes and helps you keep your business going, wherever the demands of your clients may be taking you. Then there’s the Servcorp Onefone - portable VOIP technology which literally turns your laptop into your business phone, meaning you can make and receive calls from your Servcorp business phone number no matter where you are.

Servcorp is continually developing technologies to consolidate and streamline business procedures. With busy company owners in mind, the Servcorp IT solutions make working ‘on the road’ easy – one of the latest developments is the Servcorp mobile application which helps you book in and keep track of meetings, and there’s more to come, much more.

If you would like to take a tour of the Virtual Office facilities at 710 Collins Street, docklands please call Misha Allcock on 9097 1700. www.servcorp.com.au

Charter Hall launched a new charity partnership with Lighthouse Foundation in March as part of its Lacrosse Apartment development at Docklands. Lighthouse Foundation provides homeless young people who come from backgrounds of neglect and abuse with a home and intensive long-term care and support.

Over 50 guests from Charter Hall, Lighthouse Foundation and the project team involved in the development attended the launch event at Etihad Stadium.

During the development of the Lacrosse project, Charter Hall aims to raise $100,000 for Lighthouse Foundation, through workplace giving and fundraising activities with contractors, consultants, purchasers and the community.

Charter Hall’s Head of Development Services, Chris Chapple, said: “Lighthouse Foundation plays a critical role in providing much needed long-term assistance to young Australians who would otherwise be homeless.

“Charter Hall is committed to giving back to the communities in which we operate and we are proud to support the funding and development of a new Lighthouse

home in Kensington, through the Lacrosse project. With $20,000 raised to date we are looking forward to holding a number of fundraising activities during the year to reach our $100,000 target,” Mr Chapple said.

Susan Barton, Founder of Lighthouse Foundation commented on the importance of corporate sponsorship for the Foundation saying: “We are delighted to have the support and commitment of Charter Hall and the Lacrosse development. This partnership highlights the many ways in which corporate companies can provide financial support to young Australians in need while also raising awareness of this growing issue.”

On completion, the Lacrosse Apartments, located at 675 La Trobe Street, Docklands, will comprise 312 apartments and will include 1,300 square metres of retail shops and parking for 150 cars. Over 97% of the apartments have been sold to date. The project is scheduled to be completed by June 2012.

For further information contact Rachel Mornington-West at rachelm@charterhall.com.au

gIVE yOuR BuSINESS THE CORPORATE PRESENCE IT dESERVES - PART TWo

CHARTER HALL LAuNCheS PARTNeRShIP WITh LIgHTHOuSE FOuNdATIONAT DoCkLANDS

Artist impression of Lacrosse Apartments

Lighthouse Foundation Founder Susan Barton with Charter Hall’s Chris Chappel

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THE WORLdBy James hicks

The 2011 World Ice Hockey Championships are at the Medibank Icehouse this April.

The world class venue will host the World Division II Ice hockey Championship; a week long round robin tournament running from the 4th to the 10th of April.

This signifies the first major international sporting event to be held at the Icehouse and marks only the second time that Australia has hosted the World Championships. The Australian team, the Mighty Roo’s, will face off against Serbia, Belgium, New Zealand, DPR korea and Mexico in a bid to earn promotion to the next tier, the World Division I Championship.

The previous time Australia hosted the event was the 2008 Championships in Newcastle, where the Mighty Roo’s achieved promotion for the first time into Division I. They were relegated the following year but spirits are running high in the Australian camp, Vice-captain Lliam Webster is excitingly optimistic about their chances of repeating 2008’s success.

“Absolutely we can get promoted” he beams, “We got promoted a couple of years ago so hopefully we can do it this year too”. holding the event in Melbourne and at his home rink will be extra special to Webster, who captains the Melbourne Ice team. he believes the home advantage will play into Australia’s hands, “It’s definitely a good thing” he explains, “we did really well in Newcastle last time, playing in the Icehouse will be great, it held up really well for the finals this year, we should be able to pack it out and the facilities are awesome.”

Australia and Melbourne secured their proposal to host the Championships last April in germany, Cologne. The President of Ice hockey Australia, Don Rurak, who also headed the Australian delegation in germany, listed the development of the Icehouse as being vital for sealing the Championships. “The World Championships require a world class facility, able to cater to the demands

of elite athletes and large spectator audiences. Despite strong bids from other nations, the cutting edge facilities on offer at the Icehouse proved to be the deciding factor in Melbourne being selected as the host city”.

The Docklands venue has been open for just over a year now, and Webster, who also coaches there, credits the Icehouse with an increase of support for Ice hockey in Melbourne. “up until the Icehouse, it was more difficult but now with the where it is located in the Docklands, it is much more accessible to people … they are more people getting involved, and it’s getting bigger and bigger”. Webster enthuses.

Last year Australia just missed out on promotion finishing a close second behind Spain but Webster believes their experience of Division I in 2009 will have helped them in the long run. “In 2009 we learned a lot, even though the closest I think we came to winning was getting beat 5 - 1, we walked away from every game thinking wow, the difference is that they are professional players, there job is to play hockey, whereas in Division 2 is mainly amateurs but it was amazing, so much fun... now we know what we need to aim for”.

Belgium take on the hotly tipped Serbia in the opening match which faces off at 1.00pm on the 4th of April, kick starting an action packed 7 days which will feature 15 intense matches. The Aussies will start their bid for promotion against Mexico at 8.00pm later that day, and tickets can be purchased from $23 (adult) and $19 (concession), with family deals also being offered. The tournament is shaping up to be an exciting week, and as Webster aptly puts it “It’s going to be mental”, so get yourself down to the Icehouse for something a bit different.

Medibank Icehouse will host all 15 matches, with full game information including details on special ticket packages available at reception or via their website www.icehouse.com.au.

Lliam Webster in action

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Pedro Sauer, a well known figure in the world of martial arts, will be paying Melbourne a visit in April 2011. Having received his black belt directly from the founder of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Pedro is one of the world’s most senior masters in the grappling arts.

Andrew Lai, head instructor of Docklands Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, is really looking forward to Pedro’s visit.

“Pedro is without a doubt one of the most technical instructors around, and it’s a chance to learn directly from the source.” Andrew says, “He has hundreds of academies around the world, so it’s a real honour to have him down here in Melbourne.”

As part of his visit, Pedro will be conducting a six hour seminar at the State Netball and Hockey Centre in Parkville on the 17th of April 2011. Prior to the seminar, Pedro will be the special guest at the Australian Jiu Jitsu Classic competition to be held at the same venue.

With martial arts experiencing great interest through media such as the UFC making national headlines, the Pedro seminar is a great opportunity to get in on the action. Docklands Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will continue scheduled classes as normal in the lead up to Pedro’s visit and is continuing to welcome participants of all levels including beginners.

Pedro Sauer seminar details: date and time: 10am to 4pm, April 17th 2011 Venue: State Hockey and Netball Center, Parkville Bookings: 0401 582 738

docklands Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Website: www.docklandsBJJ.com.au Address: The Hub 17 Waterview Walk, docklands Phone: 9016 8471

DoCkLANDS BRAZILIAN JIu JITSu WeLCoMeS FAMouS MARTIAL ARTIST PEdRO SAuER

The hugely popular herald Sun / CityLink Run for the kids is returning for its sixth year and in the past two editions it reached capacity. Victoria’s biggest fun run will again see over 30,000 people form a sea of colour through the streets of Melbourne raising money for the Royal Children’s hospital good Friday Appeal.

The generosity of runners and sponsors raised a record $1,050,000 for the hospital and 2011 is set to deliver even more. The events total contribution now sits at $3,732,279.

Herald Sun / CityLink Run for the Kids Event details

date: Sunday, 17 April

Courses: 14.38km super course: featuring the opportunity to run through the Domain Tunnel and over the Bolte Bridge, as well as experiencing spectacular Melbourne landmarks such as the Arts Centre, Crown Casino, Federation Square and Docklands Waterfront.

5.2km family friendly course: enjoying the scenic views of the Shrine of Remembrance and the Royal Botanic gardens.

Why: To raise money for the Royal Children’s hospital good Friday Appeal.

Time: 8:45am – 5.2km event9:15am - 14.38km event

Entry: enter online atwww.runforthekids.com.au

Cost: $40 - 5.2km (includes a $21 direct donation to the good Friday Appeal)

$45 - 14.38km (includes a $24 director donation to the good Friday Appeal)

DoN’T MISS youR ChANCe To Run FOR The Kids

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Functions and Events at IcehouseWhere cool meets clever

Medibank Icehouse, Australia’s latest ice sports and entertainment venue at Docklands, is the perfect venue for your next event. With exciting ice activities on two Olympic-sized ice rinks, four function rooms, fully licensed bar and premium catering, your next function will be both unique and engaging for your guests.

Be it a Christmas party, team building exercise, staff outing, boardroom lunch meeting or a motivational speaking event, Medibank Icehouse can service all with style. Book your next function at Medibank Icehouse and wow your guests with an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

For further information, visit icehouse.com.au or call 8631 3901.