SEPTEMBER 2012

MELBOURNE SPRINGS INTO FASHION wEEK

SEPTEMBER SCHOOLHOLIDAY FUN TIME

MALI IN THE CITYPUBLIC ART EVENT

wITTNER’S SHOES CELEBRATE CENTENARY HOT ON THE HEELS OF SPRINg FASHION wEEk

MELBuRNIAN OF THE YEAR - MICHAEL gUDINSkI

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At last, it’s time to offi cially wave winter goodbye and welcome spring into our September issue after what has seemed like a long and particularly cold and wet winter.

I just love the familiar scents of springtime blooms as spring settles in. For me it marks the beginning of the things that as Melburnians we really embrace, our sport – with footy fi nals fever upon us, and fashion, as Melbourne Spring Fashion Week inspires our interest in the latest colours and styles.

Melbourne has once again been voted the most liveable city in the world two years in a row according to the Economist Intelligence Unit and every great city is made up of great people that have made signifi cant contributions. 3000Melbourne celebrates and congratulates all the recent Melbourne Awards winners and fi nalists, in particular Michael Gudinski named Melburnian of the Year.

3000Melbourne writer Costa Rolfe brings to life an inspiring and celebratory story on the centenary of Wittner Shoes in Melbourne while fashion writer Rebecca Howden has spring fashion and coverage of Melbourne Spring Fashion Week all wrapped up.

September is synonymous with school holidays and as always, we feature some of the best venues for kids and teens to enjoy their term break along with some generous giveaways that include family passes to the annual Royal Melbourne Show, Melbourne Aquarium, Wonderland Fun Park and Pinocchio at the Malthouse Theatre.

Our new MagMedia website will incorporate all of our city publications and is currently undergoing the fi nal touches to roll out with a BANG! In the meantime, all of our articles, events and features can be found on our 3008docklands website. Please don’t be misled by imitators claiming to be the 3000Melbourne website – it’s not!

Have a blooming good September!

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

editorLisa Quittner {editor@magmedia.com.au}

magazine enquiries{enquiries@magmedia.com.au}

designSmith & Rowe{studio@smithandrowe.com.au}

advertisingBelle Ngien0411 615 910{advertise@magmedia.com.au}

Susan Riley{susanr@magmedia.com.au}

cover imageMelbourne Spring Fashion Week – Image SDP Media

contributing writersTom Elliott, Rebecca Howden, Nicole Hutcheson, Andrew Hewison, Tahlia Mandie, Costa Rolfe, Shannah Kennedy.This magazine has a distribution of 14,000 copies throughout Melbourne CBD, Docklands, parts of Southbank and rotating through South Melbourne and Port Melbourne.

Events this September 4-52012 Melburnian of the Year 8Mali’s in the City 9Melbourne Spring Fashion Week 10Wittner Shoes Celebrate Centenary 11Macy Gray Australian Tour 12 Docklands Arts & Laughs Festival 15Sept School Holiday Guide 21-233000 Wellbeing Section 24-27Bark in the Park with Dr Lisa Chimes 26Docklands’ Writers 28Semi Permanent 293000’s Bookshelf 29

published by

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

3000melbourne welcomes any contributions from our readers. Please send material to the above address.

3000melbourne is a free publication and is distributed through selected outlets. Views expressed in 3000melbourne do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editor or publisher. No responsibility is accepted by 3000melbourne for the accuracy of the advertisements or information within the publication. All material forwarded to the magazine will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled “Not for publication”. After two calendar months uncollected prizes will be claimed by 3000melbourne and may be re-drawn.

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

Lisa Quittnereditor@magmedia.com.au

EDITOR’S NOTE

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OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Alan Egan

Miranda Vuleta

Denise Henderson

David Prescott

John Sears

Debra Lee

Bob Eden

Julie Valetic

Kelly Lipton

Fabian Argento

CONGRATULATIONS! TO THE WINNERS OF OUR AUGUST COMPETITIONS:

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SEPTEMBER IN MELBOURNE -

FASHION AND FOOTY!

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The hilarious musical comedy Fat Swan is everything the fi lm was, only with songs, audience participation and men dressed up as women. Trevor Ashley stars in this “delightfully campy” and crass adults-only panto about a ballet dancer with body dysmorphia who dreams of being a star! Can she overcome a psychotic mother, a choreographer from hell, and a lesbian ballerina with a dark side? Natalie Portly will delight and disgust audiences - this time with a couple of new friends.

When: 26 September –6 OctoberWhere: Fairfax Studio, Arts Centre MelbourneTickets: 1300 182 183

FAT SWAN STARRING TREVOR ASHLEY

COUNT BASIE ORCHESTRA COMES TO MELBOURNEThe living embodiment of ‘30s and ‘40s swing, one of the most exuberant and irresistible sounds that ever shook the western world, the legendary Count Basie Orchestra will perform a strictly limited run of concert hall performances. Directed by veteran drummer Dennis Mackrel, hired by the late Count himself, the 18-piece Count Basie Orchestra features a peerless array of instrumentalistswith combined credentials that have topped the upper echelons of the international jazz world for decades.

When: 10 October, 2012Where: Hamer Hall - Arts Centre, MelbourneTickets: 1300 182 183Web: artscentremelbourne.com.au

10 October

When: Thurs 13 September – 12:30pmWhere: The hub@ Docklands - 80 Harbour EsplanadeEntry: FREE no booking requiredFurther Info: 8622 4822

Christine Maines passion for style and fashion came after 20 years as a physiotherapist and training as an image consultant. Her focus is to persuade women and men that looking good is not dependent on size, age or budget. This lunchbox presentation touches on topics presented in Chris’ workshops including the importance of image and fi rst impressions, recognising your body shape, picking suitable fashion trends, and colours to make you glow. Fabulous door prize!

LUNCHBOX SESSIONSTYLE MATTERS

13 September

The 3rd Australian, Korean Film Festival showcases 20 of the best and latest Korean feature fi lms in a diverse program that allows audiences to discover their connection to Korean cinema and culture. The festival will feature a lineup of modern classics and recent fi lms that have attracted worldwide following, including the Australian premiere of the highest grossing Korean fi lm of 2011, War of the Arrows. Film screenings, cultural performances, live music events, special guests from Korea, industry forums and more.When: 8-12 September, 2012Where: ACMI Cinemas -Fed Square, MelbourneTickets: $14/ Conc $12Web: www.koffi a.com.au

2012 KOREAN FILM FESTIVAL

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BARASSI - THE STAGE SHOW

BARASSI is the story of iconic Australian footballer, coach, motivator and father of modern football, Ron Barassi depicted from child to elder statesman. A story of determination, passion and courage - of success and failure. Driven to challenge himself to live up to the memory of his father, Barassi transitions from champion player to revolutionary coach. His football success shows no bounds while his marriage, business and old club Melbourne crumble. From tragedy to legendary, BARASSI will inspire and entertain.

Opens: 20 September, 2012Where: Athenaeum TheatreTickets: ticketek.com.au or 1300 795 012Web: barassi.net.au

TETSUYA MIZUGUCHI MELBOURNE-BOUND

In a one-night-only event audiences will get an insight into acclaimed videogame designer Tetsuya Mizuguchi’s career and inspirations and understand his unique philosophy for designing games and vision for the future of entertainment. Mizuguchi, creator of popular titles Child of Eden, Rez and Space Channel 5 will also participate in an Intermix session, an opportunity for young game developers to hear what it is like to work in the games industry from one of the pioneers of gaming.

When: 20 & 21 SeptemberWhere: ACMI – Fed Square, Melb Further Info: acmi.net.auGame Masters open until 28 October.

20 ~ 21 September

LADIES GRAND FINAL COMEDY DEBATEIn the thick of grand fi nal fever, the Grand Final Comedy Debate will ascertain whether ‘there are no gentlemen left in football’. This event is for women who enjoy their footy as much as the boys, with the debate moderated by Hamish McLachlan and featuring panelists including Anthony ‘Lehmo’ Lehmann, Fiona O’Loughlin and Matt Hardy. Enjoy a set menu, silent and live auction and a special performance by the cast of the Tony Award winning musical South Pacifi c.

When: 27 September - 11:30am – 3pmWhere: Crown Palladium - Southbank Tickets: $160 per person with goodie bagWeb: www.grandfi nalcomedydebate.com.au

27 September

Steady Eddy has amazed the comedy world with his willpower and thirst for life despite having cerebral palsy. He has been making people laugh for over 20 years and has picked up numerous awards along the way including Best Comedy Album, New Wave Comedy Performer of the Year and The Comedy Performer of the Year while performing across the globe. This amazing comedian is now making his way to the Wonderland Spiegeltent this September along with Doug Chappel and special guests.

When: Saturday 8 September –8pmWhere: Wonderland Spiegeltent – DocklandsBookings: 9602 1311 Rating: 18+Web: www.wonderlandspiegeltent.com.au

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Jennifer Kanis has formally resigned from her position at the City of Melbourne, having been elected to Council in 2008.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle has acknowledged the dedication and service of the outgoing Melbourne City Councillor as she leaves to become the Member for Melbourne in the Victorian Parliament.

“Jennifer has made an outstanding contribution to Council, particularly in her role as Chair of the Future Melbourne (People and Creative City) Committee,” the Lord Mayor said.

“Cr Kanis has made a signifi cant contribution to Council, particularly around important social issues such as homelessness, city safety, the arts, children and community services, “the Lord Mayor added.

The portfolios previously held by former Cr Kanis will be assumed by the Deputy Chairs.

COUNCILLOR KANIS RESIGNS

Melbourne has been named the world’s most liveable city by the Economist Intelligence Unit for the second year in a row elbowing out other top international cities including Vancouver, Vienna, Auckland and Helsinki.

The global liveability report scores cities on a rating criteria which includes political and social stability, crime rate levels and ease of access to quality health care, diversity and the standard of cultural events, the natural environment and education structures in place, as well as general city infrastructure incorporating public transport to assess the best or the worst living conditions.

Melbourne outperformed 140 competing cities with an overall score

of 97.5 per cent, just missing out on a perfect score based on culture and petty crime and, climate.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said Melbourne’s parks and gardens, cultural precincts, restaurant scene and major events calendar all contributed to the title.

“These rankings are always very close and the City of Melbourne is proud to be number one for two years in a row,” the Lord Mayor said.

“We are honoured to be considered the most liveable place amongst a fi eld of truly international cities. This is a great result for Melbourne and for our tourism and international education reputation,” said the Lord Mayor.

MELBOURNE – THE WORLD’S MOST LIVEABLE CITY!

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By Costa Rolfe

A champion of Melbourne music for over 40 years, Michael Gudinski’s passion for the local product has seen him honoured with all manner of industry awards, from ARIA Hall of Fame membership to an Order of Australia medal. Gudinski’s newest accolade – that of 2012 Melburnian of the Year – not only recognises these years of services to the industry, but also his recent philanthropy, which too, not surprisingly, shares its genesis in music.

The founder of Mushroom Records was instrumental in organising the Sound Relief benefi t concerts in March of 2009, which raised a staggering $8 million dollars for the victims of the Black Saturday and Queensland fl ood tragedies. Held simultaneously at Melbourne and Sydney’s respective cricket grounds, Sound Relief saw international headline acts Coldplay and Kings of Leon join forces with traditional home-grown favourites Hoodoo Gurus, Icehouse, Hunters & Collectors, Paul Kelly and You Am I (and many others) in a multi-venue line-up of civic proportions.

The manner in which the public embraced Sound Relief was for Gudinski,

a humbling experience. “Being in the line of work that I am, I had a network to draw on that could potentially help a lot of people, and to see it come off so spectacularly – 80,000 tickets were sold to fi ll the ‘G’ – was just incredible.”

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle made particular mention of Gudinski’s dual service to Melbourne. “Michael has made an enormous contribution to the city over the past four decades. His work has put many Melbourne bands and artists on the musical map, and his great support of the victims of the Black Saturday tragedy through Sound Relief has made him a Melbourne icon.”

Such a propensity to orchestrate gigs on a grand scale became apparent during Gudinski’s teenage years, and was triggered by a fundamental love of rock ‘n’ roll. “It basically all started when I was at school with a couple of mates running dances in the school holidays. I got a taste for it and became enthralled by Australian music. There were dozens of great Australian artists around at that time – lots of blues acts and incredible stage performers like The Loved Ones – and it was an easy scene to fall into. I became an agent,

and it didn’t take me long to work out that I enjoyed it a hell of a lot…”

For Gudinski, Melbourne will always be a city defi ned by its music. “When I started out a record cost more than a concert ticket – now it’s the exact opposite. A great live act is a great live act, whether it’s at the local pub or Rod Laver Arena. Artists just need a chance to develop their craft.” As for the plague of heavy-handed council infl uence that continues to threaten Melbourne’s live music scene, Gudinski regards a proliferation of raw talent as the only vaccine. “The range of music in Melbourne is phenomenal – there are several really outstanding artists at the moment. It certainly feels to me both from a grassroots talent point of view and from a public interest perspective, Melbourne’s live music scene will not only survive, but fl ourish.

Paul Kelly summed it up on the steps of Parliament when he said ‘These venues in this town have been the university of my life’… they’re that important.”

As for the city that now honours him, Gudinski is equally strong in his admiration. “I’m very lucky to have been born in Melbourne, I’ve loved the city for my whole life. To receive

this accolade is beyond humbling, and makes me genuinely proud.”

A strong supporting cast of worthy recipients rounded out the 2012 Melbourne Awards. This year’s contribution to ‘Profi le by an Individual‘ category – which celebrates projects or activities that have built Melbourne’s reputation as a national centre for shopping, business, sport, entertainment and culture – was taken out by Hatem Saleh, Managing Director of hospitality and event leaders Atlantic Group [v] of Companies. Saleh, lauded as the ‘undisputed visionary’ of Melbourne’s highly competitive hospitality industry on the back of his company’s Central Pier stronghold – remains committed both to refi ning the Atlantic Group’s culinary experiences, and the city that has so embraced them.

“Hospitality is our passion, as is our desire to be an industry shaping organisation creating unique event and hospitality experiences that put Melbourne on the local, national and international stage. I am pleased that what we do, in a small way, contributes to make Melbourne the most liveable city in the world!”

Hearing-loss scientist Dr Elaine Saunders took out the ‘Contribution to Community by an Individual’ gong. A pioneer in the development and commercialisation of the fi rst fully integrated self-fi t hearing aid, Dr Saunders’ ground-breaking work has seen her rightfully recognised as a tireless advocate for the hearing impaired. Indeed, Dr Saunders’ recent civic contribution is palpable: over 1,000 Australians obtained self-fi t hearing aids in the last year.

For more information about the 2012 Melbourne Awards winners, please visit: www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/melbourneawards

2012 MELBOURNE AWARDS MELBURNIAN OF THE YEAR - MICHAEL GUDINSKI

(L-R) Matt Gudinski, Richard Holyman, LM Robert Doyle, Michael Gudinski, DLM Susan Riley, Molly Meldrum, Kate Alexa.

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Australia’s fi rst zoo is delighted to be sharing the fun and excitement of its 150th anniversary with everyone in Melbourne, with the Mali in the City public art event.

The magnifi cent works of artists who have created 50 Mali sculptures is now on display throughout Melbourne.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle launched the Mali in the City event at the Town Hall by unveiling the fi nal two Mali sculptures, created by artists Deb Halpern and Kelly Just.

The Lord Mayor said the City of Melbourne was proud to help Melbourne Zoo celebrate its 150th birthday by taking part in the display and contributing $150,000. “The Zoo has been a Melbourne institution for generations, and holds a very special place in the hearts of those who have visited,” the Lord Mayor said.

The City of Melbourne and the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation both sponsored Mali statues for display outside Town Hall. Statues are also to be seen across Docklands, Southbank, the Royal Botanic Gardens, on city streets and in parks and proudly guarding some of Melbourne’s spectacular gardens.

The sculptures arrived across the city thanks to fi ve huge Linfox trucks that

each made two trips to deliver the sculptures after dark, so they would be a wonderful surprise for Melburnians in the morning light. The sculptures are calf-sized, amazingly similar to the size of the Zoo’s fi rst-ever elephant calf, Mali, who will be three years old in January.

Zoo Director Kevin Tanner says “The Zoo is very fortunate to have many wonderful partners helping us achieve this Mali milestone!

“The City of Melbourne has been crucial to the success of the project, and our generous corporate sponsors and talented artists have all come on board to make this a very exciting way to share the excitement of our 150th birthday with everyone in Melbourne.”

The sculptures will be in their current locations until September 21, when the whole herd will return to the Zoo to be displayed until October 25th, when they will be auctioned to help fund Zoos Victoria’s local and international conservation projects.

The Zoo is calling for potential buyers to register their interest in attending the Mali in the City Auction via email at maliauction@zoo.org.au

You can go to the App Store for a free iPhone Mali in the City app showing the locations of all the Mali sculptures.

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By Rebecca Howden

It’s the perfect way to mark the end of a long, cold winter. As the dark clouds and drizzly sky give way to crisp spring air and blooming colours, Melbourne Spring Fashion Week celebrates everything fresh, bright and creative, encouraging everyone to come out and play in the inspiring and invigorating Melbourne fashion scene.

Now in its 18th year, Melbourne Spring Fashion Week celebrates Melbourne as a fashion destination, showcasing the thriving creativity of the city from local emerging talent to Australia’s most iconic designers. The theme of “Be Inspired” will be realised through a diverse series of runway shows, seminars, workshops and shopping events, with fresh-faced Melbourne models Jake Sofo, Annaleise Smith, Emily Trimble-Thompson and Ebony Edwards leading the show.

Luminous brunette Annaleise Smith, who will front the Designer Series, says creativity and self-expression are at the heart of what makes fashion so invigorating. “I love the ability to express yourself through clothes,” she says. “Fashion to me is about taking trends and current styles and making them unique.”

The freedom to make styles your own fl ourishes particularly in Melbourne, where fashion embraces the eclectic and individual. “Australian fashion immerses its landscape into the aesthetic; it is not afraid to push the boundaries,” Smith says. “Melbourne has a reputation for indulging in black as a colour, but there is so much more to fashion in this city. Melburnian designers offer an array of beautiful collections that satisfy all tastes.”

The festival program is as multi-faceted as the style it celebrates, with a mix of iconic design and fresh, emerging talent all on show in a visual spectacular of colour, texture and movement. As always, the trademark attraction of the festival is the Designer Series, a suite of runway shows featuring the upcoming spring/summer collections from Australia’s premier designers. Over four nights, Melbourne Town Hall will become a shimmering hub of creativity, with stunning new designs by Toni Maticevski, Manning Cartell, Thurley, Scanlan and Theodore, Ellery, LIFEwithBIRD, Lui Hon and more.

Less than a block away, City Square is set to light up with a vibrant series of fashion events, including free daily runway shows starring Emily Trimble-Thomspon. From morning to night, the square will be alive with workshops, demonstrations and special offers at the glamorous Kevin Murphy Style Bar and Mecca Maxima Makeup Bar, offering insights into beauty and fashion trends and stylish tips to complete your festival experience.

If you spot something on the runways that you can’t live without, the MSFW smartphone app will be your fashion bible. With access to special offers from local retailers, style tips and more, the app helps you to fi nd your favourite garment or product from the festival and shows you where you can buy it in Melbourne. It also acts as an indispensible guide to the festival’s Look.Stop.Shop program, with cocktail parties, exhibitions, independent runway shows, sales and more popping up in laneways and retail locations all throughout the city.

MSFW also plays a key role in fostering the talents of up and coming designers,

celebrating fresh faces alongside established labels. The Emerging Designer Series unveils the next generation of creative talent through a spectacular runway show, Tomorrow’s Heroes, featuring emerging modeling sensation Ebony Edwards. A weeklong exhibition, Parallel Tensions, will also provide a platform for new and innovative designers to showcase their work.

In keeping with the spirit of fostering skill and excellence in Melbourne’s fashion industry, the business side of fashion is also a core element of the festival program. The MSFW Business Series offers both professionals and students of fashion the unique opportunity to share in the knowledge of industry leaders, with an exceptional mix of local and international speakers sharing their insights into the current issues in the retail and design environment.

From the sleek and elegant to the playful and bold, MSFW presents the best of Melbourne fashion for the upcoming season, providing a feast of colour and excitement that will be exhilarating for anyone ready to shed their winter coat and thick wooly stockings. Spring is the perfect time to have fun with fashion, and Annaleise Smith encourages Melburnians to celebrate the light and whimsical spirit the season brings. “Embrace the bright, seasonal colour palette,” she advises, “and make sure to accessorise!”

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week will take place from Monday 3 September to Sunday 9 September 2012. For more information visit www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/msfw.

MELBOURNE SPRING FASHION WEEK –INSPIRING MELBOURNE’S FASHION SCENE

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By Costa Rolfe

On the eve of Wittner Shoes’ much anticipated 100-year celebration, joint-CEO Michael Wittner proudly refl ects on the somewhat farcical origins of the third-generation Australian footwear leader.

“In 1887 my great-grandfather Arnold Vitner came to Australia by mistake. A four-week journey that was meant to culminate in an American reunion with his brother instead became a four-month haul that eventually concluded in Australia. He didn’t really have much choice but to settle here after that…”

A trader, Arnold would many years later acquire a mixed consignment of goods – with a footwear component (a somewhat dated range featuring just two sizes) eventually proving beyond his considerable sales acumen. With this strange cacophony of cobblestone-strikers left unmoved, so it came to bear in 1912 that a young HJ Wittner was told by his father, “Now you’re in the shoe business!”

Since then, Wittner Shoes has grown to encompass 73 stores and over 500 staff, but has never forgotten its roots, says Michael. “It is a family business, and it is quite unique to have a business which has been operating in not only the ownership of the one family, but also under the banner of the name of that family, for 100 years.”

For Michael, this centenary of sales service is predicated on three unwavering principles. “Our core values are quality,

innovation, and integrity, and they have never changed.” This simple yet strong Wittner ‘code’ continues to manifest throughout the business. Quality-wise, Wittner Shoes remains one of the few global retailers that forego cheap leather for more expensive, imported varieties to facilitate its all-leather product.

In terms of innovation, the company’s pioneering streak came to the fore in the late 1920’s, when it became the fi rst footwear retailer to sell via mail order (so requiring HJ Wittner to employ 31 staff in Footscray to pack mail orders alone!). Such innovation continues contemporaneously, having become the fi rst Australian retailer to go online in the 1990’s, with Wittner Shoes today maintaining a dynamic commitment to social media (as evidence by over 100,000 Facebook followers). That fi nal company tenet of ‘integrity’, however, is perhaps its fi nest. “We are especially proud of the way in which we look after our employees’ welfare, maintain our business and generally conduct ourselves as a family,” Michael affi rms.

But if any fourth-generation Wittners want to offi cially ‘Walk the Wittner Way’ and join the family business, they are well aware that their footfalls must fi rst echo on unfamiliar paths – the family constitution stipulates as much.

Encouraged to spread his wingtips abroad, Michael enhanced his craft on the retail fl oors of Harrods and Kurt Geiger in London. “I have been in the business

pretty much all my life. But like all the other family members, I have had some experience outside of the business. All our children understand that there is a constitutional requirement of two to three years experience elsewhere before they can forge a career with Wittner Shoes.” Loafers, it seems, are distinctly out of fashion in head offi ce.

An innate understanding of trends in women’s style, however, remains ‘in’ at Wittner. As its preferred supplier of footwear, the Wittner Shoes centenary celebration will be inextricably connected with the globally recognised Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, which runs from 3 until 9 September. Two exclusive runway shows – located at City Square at 12pm and 1pm on Tuesday 4 September and produced by the feted Valentina & Associates – will showcase a Wittner-exclusive product, of which Michael Wittner is particularly bullish about. “We do have some real surprises at the runway events and I would encourage everyone with an interest in fashion to attend.”

Wittner Shoes’ relationship with Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, however, will not end at the catwalk’s curtained frontier. The Grand Hyatt is hosting a weeklong retrospective that explores the full gamut of Wittner history, featuring relevant artefacts and archives from across each disparate decade. A selection of the phenomenally detailed 1920’s mail order catalogues will be

on show, the craftsmanship of which deserve a place in the same artistic sphere as the shoes they feature.

The Wittner-family’s long held commitment to charity will also come to the fore via a ‘centenary edition’ exhibition at the Block Arcade. Ten timeless pairs of bespoke women’s shoes – each meticulously encrusted in Swarovski crystals – will be on display before being auctioned for charity. The fi rst pair is destined for auction at the Lady Mayoress High Tea, with two pink creations having been specifi cally made for the McGrath Foundation. The highest bidders are guaranteed a seamless Cinderella-style fi t, assures Michael Wittner. “All the shoes will be customised to each lucky winning bidder’s personal size, so affording them a unique pair of shoes that nobody else in the world will have.”

Members of Wittner Shoes’ ‘VIP Club’ have reason to celebrate too, with an in-store centenary promotion, membership is free and all that is required to become a ‘VIP Club’ member is to purchase a pair of shoes and sign up before October 9, which will see one lucky member walk away with 100 pairs of shoes, (Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage may well be summoned to assist in transporting this most generous of gifts!). Shoe-lovers fairy-tale indeed…

For further details on the centenary events and VIP Club information visit: www.100.wittner.com.au of visit the Wittner’s Shoes Facebook page.

HOT ON THE HEELS OF MELBOURNE SPRING FASHION WEEKHOT ON THE HEELS OF MELBOURNE SPRING FASHION WEEK

WITTNER CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

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innovation, and integrity, and they have innovation, and integrity, and they have never changed.” This simple yet strong never changed.” This simple yet strong Wittner ‘code’ continues to manifest Wittner ‘code’ continues to manifest throughout the business. Quality-wise, throughout the business. Quality-wise, Wittner Shoes remains one of the few Wittner Shoes remains one of the few global retailers that forego cheap leather global retailers that forego cheap leather for more expensive, imported varieties for more expensive, imported varieties to facilitate its all-leather product. to facilitate its all-leather product.

In terms of innovation, the company’s In terms of innovation, the company’s pioneering streak came to the fore in pioneering streak came to the fore in the late 1920’s, when it became the fi rst the late 1920’s, when it became the fi rst footwear retailer to sell via mail order (so footwear retailer to sell via mail order (so requiring HJ Wittner to employ 31 staff in requiring HJ Wittner to employ 31 staff in Footscray to pack mail orders alone!). Such Footscray to pack mail orders alone!). Such innovation continues contemporaneously, innovation continues contemporaneously, having become the fi rst Australian retailer having become the fi rst Australian retailer to go online in the 1990’s, with Wittner to go online in the 1990’s, with Wittner

pretty much all my life. But like all the other family members, I have had some experience outside of the business. All our children understand that there is a constitutional requirement of two to three years experience elsewhere before they can forge a career with Wittner Shoes.” Loafers, it seems, are distinctly out of fashion in head offi ce.

An innate understanding of trends in women’s style, however, remains ‘in’ at Wittner. As its preferred supplier of footwear, the Wittner Shoes centenary celebration will be inextricably connected with the globally recognised Melbourne Spring Fashion Week, which runs from 3 until 9 September. Two exclusive runway

on show, the craftsmanship of which deserve a place in the same artistic sphere as the shoes they feature.

The Wittner-family’s long held commitment to charity will also come to the fore via a ‘centenary edition’ exhibition at the Block Arcade. Ten timeless pairs of bespoke women’s shoes – each meticulously encrusted in Swarovski crystals – will be on display before being auctioned for charity. The fi rst pair is destined for auction at the Lady Mayoress High Tea, with two pink creations having been specifi cally made for the McGrath Foundation. The highest bidders are guaranteed a seamless Cinderella-style fi t, assures Michael Wittner. “All

HOT ON THE HEELS OF MELBOURNE SPRING FASHION WEEKHOT ON THE HEELS OF MELBOURNE SPRING FASHION WEEKHOT ON THE HEELS OF MELBOURNE SPRING FASHION WEEKHOT ON THE HEELS OF MELBOURNE SPRING FASHION WEEK

CENTENARY CENTENARY CELEBRATIONSCELEBRATIONS

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By Lisa Quittner

As part of the Arts Centre Melbourne’s Hamer Hall Opening Season GRAMMY, MTV, and BRIT award winning singing sensation Macy Gray, concludes her whirlwind tour across Europe parts of the U.S and Australia in Melbourne on Friday 21 September, twelve years after her last Melbourne visit.

I was lucky enough to see Macy Gray perform live all those years ago in Melbourne and it was one of the few concerts of that decade that remains vivid in my memory. Whether this is attributable to Macy’s energy and vibe on stage that transcended through her music and song writing like an express train to the soul or the combination of her distinctive voice and groovy tones and tunes, I am not quite sure, but I do recollect, it was one fantastic concert!

While the setting for Macy’s September performance is quite intimate in comparison to her Rod Laver Arena appearance in 2000, I am even more excited to see Macy perform her latest album and tour of COVERED, which is a collection of cover tracks and material that she has drawn mainly from indie rock tunes of the last decade, with the

exception of Eurythmics’ “Here Comes the Rain Again,” from 1984, and Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” from 1992. As James Hetfi eld of Metallica commented on Macy’s interpretation, “Her heart must

truly be bursting at the seams. It is fl ooded with soul”.

This is not your typical covers album by any stretch. From the snippets I have listened to of familiar tracks by other artists they almost sound like originals from Macy and they are just, seriously, sensational!

“These were songs that I would’ve probably written in another life,” says Macy and she adds “they’re almost all these kind of

dark love songs, which is the mood I’m in right now – to sing these I-wanna-slit-my-wrists-but-I-love-you songs. They already said what I want to say, perfectly.”

COVERED includes covers of Kanye West’s ‘Love Lockdown’, Colbie Caillat’s ‘Bubbly’, Metallica, My Chemical Romance and so many more front lining bands and their songs and solo performers including Radiohead’s ‘Creep’, which had the hairs on my arms standing to attention – hauntingly beautiful!

Macy Gray kicked off her music career with her debut 2000 CD, On How Life Is. That musical calling card spawned the classic single “I Try”, and both the CD and single were massive global hits,

with over 25 million units sold. Following on with her album The Id and now her seventh studio Album ‘COVERED’ Macy Gray is a gifted songwriter and sensational, distinctive singer that in a musical sense, will blow you away.

Macy has forged a career creating music that leaps genre barriers from experimental soul to alternative rock, from retro-disco to hip-hop, collaborating with artists including John Frusciante, Erykah Badu, Gang Starr, Mos Def, and Pharoah Monche. Macy has created an uncompromising musical path beholden to her own vision and garnering accolades at every juncture. With ‘COVERED’ Macy has turned the cover album concept on its ear choosing edgy contemporary choices and approaching them in an innovative and uncompromising way.

As a side step to her musical prowess, Macy’s fi lm credits include the Training Day, Spider-man, Scary Movie 3 and most recently (just launched at the Cannes Film Festival) The Paperboy with John Cusack, Zac Efron, Nicole Kidman and Matthew McConaughey. Last and certainly not least, and possibly her greatest accolade to date is that of Mum to teenagers!

As Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum would say, do yourself a favour and don’t miss the incomparable Macy Gray live in concert this September, this concert is sure not to disappoint but provide you with a night to remember that will undoubtedly last until her next hotly anticpated visit to Melbourne.

When: Friday 21 September, 2012Where: Hamer Hall – The Arts Centre Melbourne Tickets: 1300 182 183Cost: From $55 - $85 per ticketVisit: www.macygray.com

MACY GRAY HAS MELBOURNE “COVERED”

truly be bursting

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GET INTO THE ACTION & CHASE THE CACHE

SNAPPED! CAPTURE MELBOURNE IN A MOMENT

Australia’s leading youth mentoring organisation Big Brothers Big Sisters is running an outdoor fundraising event on Sunday 14th October and you and your team is invited!

Chase the Cache is a High Tech Treasure Hunt where teams of up to 4 participants use handheld GPS units to fi nd hidden “treasure” within a defi ned area of the Docklands precinct.

When you register, a team fundraising page is created so you can seek sponsorship for your team from family and friends and support vulnerable young people to reach their true potential. Registration is limited to just 50 teams so get in early.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is Australia’s leading youth mentoring program. Vulnerable young people are provided with a carefully screened, trained and supported volunteer mentor who becomes a long term positive role model, giving them the support, guidance and friendship they need.

Help raise vital funds to support the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters – and have fun at the same time!

When: Sunday 14 October, 2012 10am – 1pmTeam Registration:www.chasethecache.com.auCost: $100 per team of fourFurther information: 03 9526 8107or support@bbbs.org.au

Budding photographers and keen observers of city life are being encouraged to capture ‘Melbourne in a moment’ as part of the Melbourne Library Service (MLS) photography competition Snapped!

Snapped: Melbourne in an moment invites entrants to catch the city in a moment of time, whether it’s a wonderful show or event, the city at sunset, an interesting art fi nd, a fl eeting moment or a scene passersby might not notice.

To enter, you must be a member of the MLS, which is free and open to all residents of Victoria.

The MLS has 82,000 members and over 160,000 items across four

libraries: City Library, East Melbourne Library, North Melbourne Library and Southbank Library at Boyd. MLS also hosts a library access point at Docklands and a virtual library service.

There are two age group categories – under 18 and over 18 – and prizes of up to $1000. Shortlisted photographs will be on exhibition at the Gallery @ City Library in December.

The competition is open until October 1st.

To fi nd out more visitwww.melbournelibraryservice.com.au or email librarycompetition@melbourne.vic.gov.au

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DThe inaugural Docklands Arts & Laughs Festival from October 3 and culminating on October 7 with Blues Festival Sunday will undoubtedly be one of the biggest and best live entertainment festival events held at Melbourne’s Docklands and also includes a Comedy Gala Spectacular on October 6 at the Wonderland Spiegeltent.

Spanning over 5 days, this underground emerging arts festival, is absolutely jam packed with a superb line up of performances by local and international world class acts including Greg Fleet, Jeff Green (UK) Tom Callan (IRE), Fiona O’Loughlin and Jane Badler (USA) as well as award winning Blues bands that will have your toes tapping and your fi ngers snapping.

With events hosted at selected venues across Waterfront City, NewQuay and Harbour Town, the festival caters for the gamut of tastes in the arts and entertainment sphere and features comedy, cabaret, music, art exhibitions and family events, many of which are free, with a gold coin donation requested for the festival’s offi cial charity partner BIG UMBRELLA supporting Real Meal Soup Kitchen.

The Docklands Arts & Laughs Festival wraps up with Festival Sunday Blues where the waterfront promenade will be full of exciting swanky blues music, special events, fabulous food and fun from 11am to 4pm.

This fabulous calendar of events is presented by Destination Docklands in association with Docklander Deals, Waterfront City, NewQuay and

of course, entertainment specialists -Knockout Events.

Stay tuned for our October issue where we will bring you the full program of events and performances. Looking forward to seeing you there – laughing your arts off!

DOCKLANDS ARTS AND LAUGHS FESTIVAL

3-7 OCTOBER, 2012

LAUGH YOUR ARTS OFF AT DOCKLANDS

ARTS AND LAUGHS FESTIVAL

www.docklandsartsandlaughsfestival.com.au

-Knockout Events.

program of events and performances.

DOCKLANDS ARTS

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Gusto! explores Victoria’s historic and contemporary culinary landscape, covering subjects such as Indigenous foods, sustainable food practices, fi ne dining and food rationing, and also features the fascinating stories of some signifi cant fi gures noted for their culinary connections to Victoria. Gusto! offers something for every palate.

Get a taste for Gusto! this September with an assortment of delicious events:

LOOK.STOP.TASTE.

Celebrate Gusto! and discover a taste of contemporary Melbourne on the Look.Stop.Taste. self-guided trail. Check the map to select a participating venue, then stop off and taste a dish and beverage that express Melbourne’s abundance of produce and creativity!

Until Sunday 16 September

www.slv.vic.gov.au/event/look-stop-taste

THE CURATOR AND THE CRITIC

Join Gusto! exhibition curator Tracey Judd Iva and food writer and critic Rita Erlich as they guide you through the exhibition, highlighting their favourites on display.

Thursday 13 September, 6–7pm, free

www.slv.vic.gov.au/event/curator-critic

SECRET RECIPES REVEALED

Enjoy an exclusive viewing of original recipes, rare culinary manuscripts

and cookbooks with Heritage Collections librarian Greg Gerrand.

Thursday 20 September, 6-7pm, free

www.slv.vic.gov.au/whats-on

HIGH TEA WITH GUSTO!

Indulge in the long tradition of high tea – enjoy sweet and savoury delights with family and friends in the splendid Red Rotunda. Cowen Gallery

Saturday 22 September, 13 October & 17 November, 2–4pm

$80 per person; table of 10 $700 (bookings required)

www.slv.vic.gov.au/whats-on

THE CHANGING MENU

What’s on the menu, and why? From contemporary Indigenous dishes to molecular gastronomy, Victoria’s dining scene refl ects diverse culinary possibilities. Join our panel of food writers, restaurateurs and providores as they discuss what we eat and drink.

Thursday 27 September, 6-7.15pm, free

www.slv.vic.gov.au/whats-on

Gusto!

Savour the rich culinary history of Victoria in this delicious free exhibition, featuring a cornucopia of gastronomic treasures from the collections of the State Library – from the fi rst Australian cookbook, published in 1864, to a gold Vegemite jar.

GUSTO! A CULINARY HISTORY OF VICTORIA

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By Tom ElliottA few weeks ago the Federal Government announced yet another major policy backfl ip in respect to its treatment of asylum seekers. Whereas

since 2007 the Labor Party had eschewed the Howard era’s offshore processing programme, now it seems that reopening detention centres on both Nauru and PNG’s Manus Island is the ‘right’ thing to do. Depending on one’s political leanings, such a change in the treatment of asylum seekers may be a good or bad thing; but if you’re a business person looking for consistency from government, backfl ips like these are unambiguously terrible.

When entrepreneurs decide whether or not to start a business venture, some of

the important ingredients they require are vision, a strong plan, suffi cient capital for at least two years of cash outfl ows, the support of a few key employees and the knowledge that signifi cant government policies won’t change. This latter requirement is often referred to as ‘sovereign risk’, a term that relates to times when a monarch could arbitrarily decide to remove a person or entity from political favour. In more modern times it encompasses countries who decide to default on their international debt obligations, drastically alter their tax laws, outlaw hitherto common business structures such as trusts, and so on.

Australia is increasingly regarded as a nation prone to sovereign risk for the following reasons:

• The Carbon Tax was recently introduced despite a clear

political promise in 2010 that such a thing would not occur;

• In 2008 the Victorian State Government decided to remove valuable pokie licenses from gambling companies Tattersalls and Tabcorp (a decision now being challenged by Tattersalls in the courts);

• The surprise announcement in the 2010 Federal Budget of the Resources Super Profi ts Tax (now watered down to the Mineral Resources Rent Tax); and

• The decision in 2009 by the Australian Tax Offi ce (ATO) to chase international private equity fi rm TPG for tax on its successful sale of Myer – despite a previous policy statement exempting such funds from Capital Gains Tax (the ATO decided that TPG’s profi ts from the sale took the form of income, not capital).

Although the above list is not exhaustive, the net result of such policy changes by our governments and governmental agencies is that

investors feel less comfortable risking their capital here. And without people prepared to risk capital, the Australian economy will undoubtedly slow, along with job prospects for many thousands of ordinary workers.

While it is in all governments’ essential nature to meddle with things, at times the best thing our elected representatives can do is sit back, leave matters as they are and let employees and businesses get on with the job. This is the central motto of the small government oriented Republican Party, whose leader, Mitt Romney, will soon challenge Barack Obama for the position of American President. I do wonder whether any Australian political leaders are taking notice of these developments overseas; if not, they should…

Tom Elliott is Director of both MM&E Capital Pty Ltd, a Melbourne based hedge fund, and Beulah Capital Pty Ltd, a private wealth manager.Beulah Capital Ph: 9270 9180 Web: www.beulahcapital.com

WHY POLICY BACKFLIPS ARE BAD FOR CONFIDENCE

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By Shannah Kennedy – Executive Life Strategist

It may sound simplistic, but creating routine and structure in your day is the key to creating a calm, balanced and successful life, both personally and professionally. Structure is a powerful and highly underrated tool that will fundamentally change your life and business for the better.

To achieve your goals and get into the driver’s seat, every part of your life and business needs to be planned for and supported. And I mean everything: work, exercise, nutrition, money, fun, time out – every activity and every

element in your life needs to be supported. It is your greatest project, and it will get you outstanding results.

This is because when you have the right structure in place, all the basics are covered so you then have room and the freedom to be spontaneous, to grab new opportunities without sacrifi cing any of your normal obligations. It gives you balance and clarity and, just as importantly, the space and freedom you need to work towards achieving your ambitions.

It’s important to value time and to understand what it’s doing for you – not just when you’re taking a break, but in each and every moment. How you structure your activities will either give you a sense of achievement, fulfi llment, energy and success, or it will make you feel stressed, out of control and exhausted.

Time is a gift and it is our responsibility to really “own and drive” our time and what we want to do with it. This means taking ownership of what we want to feel (calm, unhurried and, relaxed – or

rushed, anxious and stressed), and understanding the consequences of each of our activities. It is impossible to have control over your life if you have no structure to support your daily activities, which means you must have a diary or a planner.

Not having a diary is an act of self-sabotage – it’s like charging expenses on your credit card all month and, not keeping tabs on your spending, never asking for receipts, and then complaining that your credit card bill is so high.

Whether you use an online planner or a paper diary, spend time every day planning each day. A week-to-a-page diary is a perfect “at a glance” representation of how busy your life is and it will allow you to check in with your tasks, behaviours, values and beliefs.

7 questions to guide your diary planning:

1. Have I covered my values?

2. Have I booked in space and downtime to recharge myself?

3. Have I booked in quality time with those most important to me?

4. What are the rewards and consequences?

5. Have I structured calm and balance by using my toolbox well?

6. What activities make my business the most profi table?

7. What tasks can I now get rid of that are just distracting and not adding to the business?

You will then see how much time you actually do have to be spontaneous!

For more information visit: shannahkennedy.com or email: shannah@shannahkennedy.com

SIMPLIFY FOR PROFITGET IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT!

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There are two $250 gift cards to be won thanks to Offi ceworks.

With over 15,000 products & 144 stores nationwide, Offi ceworks has a range of offerings to fulfi l the demands of businesses at every level. With everyday items like pens and paper, all the way through to Print & Copy services and even Offi ce Fit-Outs, Offi ceworks is an easy and convenient way to help businesses run effectively.

Businesses get a host of advantages incl. dedicated Account Manager & increased payment fl exibility with 30 days interest-free. Like to know more? Ph 1300 633 423 or visit offi ceworks.com.au.

For your chance to WIN email your full name, business name & phone number to: melbourne@servcorp.com.au*Conditions apply. Draw closes 30th September, 2012. Winner will be drawn at random & notifi ed by email. Prize to be collectedfrom Servcorp.

OFFICEWORKS GIFT CARDVALUE: $250

WIN

“In Business” brought to you by

T: 9097 1617 W: servcorp.com.au

NETWORKING EVENT

Pursuant to new law passed on 29 June 2012, the provisions of the Director Penalty Regime imposed by the Australian Taxation Offi ce (“ATO”) have been considerably strengthened. Below is a brief outline of the changes to the regime, and the key points for company directors to watch out for.

Directors may be aware that prior to 29 June 2012, the ATO was able to issue Director Penalty Notices (“DPNs”) to company directors for outstanding amounts of PAYG Withholding that had not been remitted to the ATO. The effect of these notices was to impose a personal liability on the director for the outstanding amounts unless, within a 21 day notice period, one of the following occurred:-

• payment of the debt;

• appointment of an administrator to the company;

• beginning the winding up of the company.

The new regime has extended the potential exposure of directors in that:-

• The regime now extends to unpaid Superannuation Guarantee amounts, not only PAYG Withholding;

• Company directors will not be able to discharge their director penalties by placing their company into administration when PAYG Withholding or Superannuation Guarantee remain unpaid for three months after the due date; and

• In some instances, making directors and their associates liable to pay PAYG withholding non-compliance tax (effectively reducing credit entitlements) where the company has failed to pay amounts withheld to the ATO.

Directors still have the same defences as they previously had, although where three months have lapsed since the due day, and the underlying liability remains unpaid and unreported, the director penalty is not remitted as a result of placing the company into administration or beginning to wind it up.

Therefore, important points for directors to remember:-

• Make sure all outstanding PAYG Withholding and Superannuation Guarantee Amounts are reported and remitted within three months of the relevant due dates;

• Make sure your company’s registered address is updated with ASIC – This is where the ATO will send relevant notices;

• Seek advice from your accountant as a matter of priority if you are unable to make PAYG Withholding and Superannuation Guarantee Amounts on time.

Alice RuheSellersMuldoonBenton9600 2100 or www.smbvic.com.au

DIRECTORS – ATO CHANGES YOU NEED TO KNOW

If you’re up for a night of learning, networking, canapés & drinks then you’ll love this Servcorp Business Shorts event. Bring your cards and meet other business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals in a relaxed environment. Come along and expand your network!IP Protection – Necessity or a Waste of Money?Date: Wednesday 26th SeptemberAddress: Servcorp, 710 Collins Street Docklands Time: 5:30pm - 7pm Price: $20Speaker: Brendan Sheehan, Hunt & HuntWhat exactly is Intellectual Property? How does a patent differ from a registered trademark? What is copyright? How does one protect one’s IP? And is it really necessary? These and other tricky questions will be answered by our guest expert.RSVP: www.servcorpaus.eventbrite.com

Name: Steven GagliardiniBusiness: TROX Australia Pty LtdTime in Southbank: 6 monthsWhy Southbank: Ideal location with easy access to freeways and Flinders Street train stationYour business in a nutshell: Air Diffusion & Air Water Component Manufacturing and Distribution

A successful business needs: Proactive focussed professional staffWhose brain would you like to pick: Consulting EngineersWhat is your defi nition of success in business: Providing your clients with prompt professional service every timeBiggest mistake business owners can make: Underestimate their opposition and overstate their capability Biggest strength business owners can leverage: Their staffWhat keeps you up at night? Overactive mindHidden gem in Southbank: Servcorp and its amazing personnelMost surprising discovery since being located in the Southbank / CBD: That we can see our clients without having to commute by vehicleWhat is your businesses mantra? To ensure that the service and products we delivery Most important offi ce/business tools: PC and telephone5 year goal: To become the most successful air diffusion equipment distributor in Australia and New ZealandWords of advice: Stay positive no matter what comes your way

TROX Australia Pty LtdLevel 2, Riverside Quay1 Southbank BoulevardSouthbank VIC 3006Ph: (03) 9982 4447Web: www.troxaustralia.com

LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE

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By Andrew Hewison

On 1 July 2012 there was yet another adjustment to superannuation contribution limits. Since 1 July 2007 the limit for concessional contributions to superannuation is $25,000 per annum, however, if you were aged 50 and over between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2012 you were able to contribute $50,000 per annum to your fund. Unfortunately the honeymoon is now over.

The superannuation concessional contribution limit for all adult Australians is now $25,000 per annum. This includes the minimum 9% employer superannuation guarantee (SG) contributions and any salary sacrifi ce arrangements you may have in place.

Of those people aged 50 and above, it concerns me that you may not have adjusted your salary sacrifi ce arrangements to comply

with your now lower contribution threshold which could see you exceed the cap.

For ultra-high income earners, your 9% SG alone may see you exceed the $25,000 cap.

So what are the implications of exceeding the contribution limit?

Amounts that exceed the contribution limit will be taxed at 46.5%, the highest marginal rate, as opposed to the 15% rate applied to complying contributions and will count towards another contribution limit, your non-concessional limit of $150,000 per annum.

For top marginal rate payers, you may think this this is a satisfactory result, however, although the excessive amounts would reduce your non-concessional limit they are still treated as taxable components within your fund.

For the ultra-high income earners, your options are limited, but here is one thought:

An income of around $277,750 will generate 9% SG of $25,000 per annum. You might consider requesting that your employer cease paying SG above $25,000 per annum and instead pay you a higher salary. The tax rate will be the same, but you can direct the excess salary to superannuation to form part of the non-taxable component of your fund.

If you are questioning how an employer can cease paying SG, the maximum salary requiring SG payments is $175,280 per annum. SG paid on salary above this amount is at the employer’s discretion.

Where individuals not only go over the concessional cap, but then also go over the non-concessional cap, they are liable to pay another 46.5%, therefore, they could be liable to pay 93% on excessive contributions so tread carefully.

From 1 July 2012, the ATO have announced that they will allow an individual to exceed their concessional contribution limit once, as long as the excess is under $10,000. They will have the excessive portion refunded to them without penalty, but it is a one-

time only let off. If you exceed by only $50, that is it, your chance has been used.

If any readers have questions regarding the information, feel free to email me at andrew@hewison.com.au for further information. Andrew Hewison is Director and a Certifi ed Financial Planner with Hewison Private Wealth and a regular 3000 Melbourne Contributor:

Level 4, 102 Albert Road, South Melbourne Ph: 9682 1900 Web: www.hewison.com.au

HAVE YOU ADJUSTED YOUR SUPER CONTRIBUTIONS?

Exciting full day and special music, sport and design programs 3 & 4 year olds and Prep-Year 6f ll d d i l i t d d i 3 & 4 ld d P

School Holiday Programs

For more information call 8102 6266

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Visit the Giants of the Reef at Melbourne Aquarium this school holidays and learn all about the biggest fi sh in Australia’s oceans!

Come face to face with reef fi sh bigger than sharks, featuring our 200kg giant grouper Mr G, the king of the Oceanarium.

Mr G is a Queensland Grouper with attitude. Whether being hand-fed by Melbourne Aquarium divers, or visiting his very own cleaning station to get his gills attended to by a team of cleaner fi sh, he is certainly makes his presence felt.

The aquatic state emblem of Queensland, Giant Grouper are territorial animals commonly found cruising around the rocky coral caves and shipwrecks throughout the Great Barrier Reef.

Both giants of their species, a stunning, brightly-coloured Maori wrasse and multi-patterned Potato cod will also join Mr G in the Oceanarium just in time for the school holidays.

Check out the 11am and 2pm dive feeds for your chance to see our Giants of the Reef hand fed by our divers. Feeling brave? Why not take the plunge and dive with the Giants by undertaking a Shark Walker or Dive with the Sharks experience?

The Kid’s Play Area is a hive of activities this school holidays, with take-home art & crafts running each day between 10am and 4pm. Visitors can also pledge their commitment to keeping our oceans healthy on Melbourne Aquarium’s Pledge Wall. Help Melbourne Aquarium reach their target of 1,000 pledges!

Don’t miss your opportunity to have a HUGE amount of fun this school holidays!

When: 22 September until 7 OctoberWhere: Corner King & Flinders

Street,MelbourneMelbourne Aquarium is open every day of the year, from 9:30am until 6pm.For further information, visit www.melbourneaquarium.com.au.

SPRING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AT MELBOURNE AQUARIUM:

GIANTS OF THE REEF

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Galactic Circus - Australia’s Largest Indoor Interactive Theme Park, is set to blow you away these school holidays with the ultimate in school holiday fun all under one roof! No need to worry about the weather –100% indoors - so the fun NEVER stops!

Offering the latest in technological attractions and simulators including our human washing machine -Cyber Coaster, 15 state of the art bowling lanes - and we aren’t talking your normal bowling lanes, we’re talking bowling lanes in 3 different directions - and M9 Laser Skirmish - the ultimate indoor laser skirmish challenge, all under one roof.

Make sure you check out the ALL ACTION SCHOOL HOLIDAY PASS - 3 games /

battles of your favourite activity for one low price - $27.00pp. Mix and Match your games - it’s completely up to you.

Start your day with a battle against your friends in our fully themed laser skirmish arena, grab a ball and avoid the gutters on our state of the art bowling lanes then fi nish the day with 30 minutes of unlimited arcade games in Galactic Circus. Pick and choose your own experience - the choice is yours - available everyday these school holidays 10am - 6pm.

Save time and money - Buy online and save $3.00pp off the ALL ACTION SCHOOL HOLIDAY PASS at www.galacticcircus.com.au

GALACTIC CIRCUS - AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST INDOOR INTERACTIVE THEME PARK

Wonderland Fun Park will become a Safari Jungle this school holidays with a LIVE CROCODILE AND PYTHON SNAKE appearing with Ranger Mick and Sue daily. There will be plenty of photo opportunities as well as the amazing Drumming Monkeys and the The Safari Spectacular Show live in the Wonderland Spiegeltent theatre.

Enjoy daily shows starring Tarzan and Jane as they show off their amazing fl ying aerial stunts. See the show and then ride the wacky worm roller coaster, the crazy wave, Jurassic Infl atable, TACKLE THE AMAZON and the walk on water balls, Dodgem Cars, Bungee trampoline and so much more , and don’t forget to enter the lost world hidden treasure competition. More fun than Monkey with a bunch of bananas!!!

Wonderland Fun Park is free to enter, Super Unlimited Ride Passes include entry to the show as well or just see the show tickets are $15.

Call 9602 1311 or book on line atwww.wonderlandfunpark.com.au.

WELCOME TO THE SAFARI JUNGLE THIS SCHOOL HOLIDAYS!

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2012 ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW

For sheer fun, discovery and excitement, as well as a great value day out with family and friends, there’s nothing like the 2012 Royal Melbourne Show, on for 11 days at Melbourne Showgrounds.

Conducted by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) to promote and celebrate agriculture, the Royal Melbourne Show is Victoria’s largest annual community event.

See thousands of animals up close, taste the delights of award winning food and wine in the new Taste of Victoria Epicure Pavilion, trial new products and have fun learning about agriculture and inparticular Victorian produce.

There’s an amazing variety of carnival rides and showbags, great live entertainment, spectacular fi reworks and much more to enjoy with family and friends. Easily accessible by public transport, and with great value admissions packages available for your

convenience, there’s nothing like the Royal Melbourne Show!

When: Saturday 22 September -Tuesday 2 OctoberGates open: 9.30am daily. Further information: www.royalshow.com.au.

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Emma Dumas is Founder of Sugar Free September and Director of ‘the muesli’

It’s impossible to live completely ‘Sugar Free’! After all, glucose is the basic building block to all human energy! But it’s so easy to make a dramatic reduction to your sugar intake and that’s what Sugar Free September (SFS) is all about. What is also a certainty is that you’ll feel a lot better and probably lose weight.

WHAT IS THE MISSION OF SUGAR FREE SEPTEMBER?

The mission is to be a part of and contribute to the growing awareness of the effect that the enormous amount of sugar that has made its way into our diets over the last 50 years, is having on the health and wellbeing of an ever more obese population. This is a massive education piece, we are victim to, what I believe is, one of the single most devastating misinformation campaigns ever infl icted - FAT FREE.

HOW MUCH OF WHAT WE EAT AND DRINK HAS HIDDEN ADDED SUGARS?

A really frightening amount of what we eat and drink has hidden &/or added sugars. Soft drinks and sports drinks are well known culprits but fruit juices

are really almost as bad - if you’re lining up and super sizing your serve at a Juice Bar thinking it’s the healthy choice - think again! Watch out for promises on packaging like: Only Natural Sugars, No Added Sugar and of course the classic 99% Fat Free, they’re all pretty much a guarantee that when you look at the sugars line on the nutrition panel - there’s plenty already there!

TELL US ABOUT ‘THE MUESLI’, I BELIEVE IT’S ACTUALLY GOOD FOR YOU AND TASTES GOOD WITHOUT ALL THE SUGAR, IS THAT POSSIBLE?

‘the muesli’ is truly unique in a very busy marketplace – there are just so many muesli’s out there, but really nothing to compare with us on two levels, which combined set us apart from the rest….

1. Naturally SUGAR FREE – just 1.6g sugars /100g, (1.6%) from our 11

natural ingredients, 5 nuts, 4 seeds, oats & coconut. Muesli’s on the shelves range from 8% to 48% sugar – and you can count on one hand the breakfast cereals/mueslis that carry the Sugar Free message or can boast it!

2. Our PREMIUM MIX – 50% of the mix is made up of highest quality nuts & seeds with coconut, leaving just 36% natural raw oats (most of the others are well over 50% oats & fi llers, some over 70%!) All natural, nothing roasted, toasted or baked, preserving the essential nature of the good raw fats from the nuts, seeds and coconut - ‘the muesli’ - is very high in protein and dietary fi bre.

For more information about Sugar Free September visit www.themuesli.com.au www.sugarfreeseptember.com.au

SUGAR FREE SEPTEMBER

Emma Dumas is Founder of Sugar Free Emma Dumas is Founder of Sugar Free

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WHY TEETH WHITENING?

Over time, teeth can become stained from various lifestyle factors or faults in your tooth. Staining commonly occurs from smoking, red wine, coffee, tea, ageing, antibiotics and dyed foods. Fortunately, in most cases d-spa can help remove all your stains and bring your teeth back to their natural whiteness. Using d-spa’s latest technology, you can have a whiter, brighter smile in under an hour, leaving you looking and feeling more confi dent.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

d-spa’s one hour whitening procedure utilises the most advanced state of the art technology. It dramatically

whitens your teeth and enhances your personal appearance. Our warm and friendly team is happy to answer any of your questions and can walk you through the simple procedure:

1. Your dentist will examine and polish your teeth.

2. Your gums are then protected with isolation material

3. A whitening gel is applied to your teeth

4. The gel is activated by the whitening machine for approximately 8 minutes. The cycle is then repeated 3-4 times within the session, depending on the severity of teeth staining.

WILL I SUFFER TEETH SENSITIVITY?

Approximately twenty percent of patients will experience sensitivity. This may be due to fi ne cracks in the teeth, grinding or toothbrush abrasion (enamel wear). This sensitivity can last up to 24 hours after the whitening treatment with most people experiencing only mild sensitivity for a maximum of ten hours.

HOW LONG WILL MY TEETH STAY WHITE?

The results are permanent. We recognise that all people will eventually accumulate new stains over time depending on their lifestyle. This is why we provide you with a complimentary home maintenance kit to ensure you continue to maintain and protect your new smile for life.

WANT A WHITER, BRIGHTER SMILE?

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By Tahlia Mandie – Psychotherapist & Family Counsellor

It has been a long winter! It has been one of those seasons that just seemed to have had no end point. When my baby was born, we stayed indoors. Days on end. Then the Little Miss got a cold. Got a cough. I got sick. Hubby got sick. And then once we thought we were over it all, no more runny noses, round two started! And just when you think Melbourne is going to give us a lovely sunny day, two hours later it is freezing. Not just cold… freezing.

Now I realise why Melburnians escape, fl ee, run up north. A week, two weeks, maybe a few months would be nice. Lowness, lethargic, tired. It really is quite depressing. So somehow we have to fi nd a way to reignite that lethargy spark.

There is something to be said for a romantic open fi replace. Watching the fi re, feeling the heat… I feel cozy just thinking about the fi re. Not so easy right? If only I had a real fi re and not one of those gas ones with fake “logs”.

Spring is here. Flowers bloom. Hopefully a little more sun so our souls and internal organs can defrost. A little more sun to give us more time outdoors, more outdoor play, and not so many days curled up in bed. Although a day in bed is very enticing too. And hot bubble baths can happen all year round too! It may be spring, but these little winter luxuries that so many of us probably got accustomed too are still allowed I say! I am happy with spring. I am happy with winter being over! But bring me summer! Countdown is on!

THE WINTER CHILL IS OVER

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By Lisa Quittner

Wellbeing isn’t just limited to us humans, our doggy counterparts rely on us to provide and care for their physical and social wellbeing and thanks to fantastic events such as Purina’s Bark in the Park this September we can all ensure we are giving our pets the right nutrition and care they need, as well as some time to hang out with some four legged mates.

3000Melbourne spoke to veterinarian, Dr Lisa Chimes from Channel 10’s Bondi Vet series to fi nd out more.

When and why did you decide to become a veterinarian, albeit a ‘celebrity’ vet?

I have always loved animals since I was a young child - I used to talk about becoming a vet at the age of 5. During high school I developed a strong interest in medicine. I never thought I would be emotionally strong enough to deal with sick animals, so I stopped wanting to be a vet during my high school years. It was only when I fi nished school that I realised that becoming a vet would combine my two passions - animals

and medicine. My role on Bondi Vet was simply a matter of being in the right place at the right time. The show allows me to teach people about the animals I love, as well as showcase what an amazing profession a ‘veterinarian’ is.

Purina’s Bark in the Park is now a national event and obviously refl ects our nationwide affection for our 4-legged best friends, why are these events so important and why are people so enamored with their dogs?

Bark in the Park is simply a celebration of our dogs. Our canine companions are so important in today’s society - they are our loyal friends, our surrogate children and they provide unrelenting physical and emotional support to so many people. These events are a great way for your dog to socialise with other dogs and for you to meet other dog owners who share the same adoration for these wonderful creatures.

What are the most important elements in caring for our dogs, what do Purina products contain that may not be present in other brands and products?

Looking after a dog not only involves the emotional connection, the tangible necessities such as food, accessories and veterinary care are as important. Purina is a world leading pet care brand that provides our pets with high quality food, accessories and health care products. The brand has many years of scientifi c and veterinary research behind it, making it a vital part of your Pet’s well being.

Bark in the Park is a doggy social event, how much of a social life do our dogs need?

Dogs are by defi nition social animals. In the wild they live in social groups and the same goes for our domesticated pets. They thrive on human interaction, but socialising with other dogs can be as important. So many behavioural problems arise from poorly socialised dogs - Bark in the Park is a great way for your dog to make some four-legged mates. Obviously all dogs need to be on lead, and those that are anxious around other dogs should be closely supervised to avoid any not-so-friendly behaviour.

Do you have a dog of your own?

I have two Cavalier cross Poodles called Nelson and Lucas - they are my surrogate children - when it comes to them, my veterinarian hat comes off and I am simply a doting dog owner like everyone else.

Purina’s Bark in the Park - Saturday 22nd September, Princes Park, Carlton. 10am – 2pm

barkinthepark.purina.com.au

2012 BARK IN THE PARK WITH VET DR LISA CHIMES

Tahlia is a psychotherapist and family counsellor, writer and blogger helping individuals, couples and families navigate through life’s challenges and move forward. See more of Tahlia’s work at www.directionexploring.com.au or www.theparentingfi les.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2012 27

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By Nicole Hutcheson - Kinesiology Practitioner & Instructor

Last month I wrote about vitamins and the role they play in

your body’s health. Another nutritional topic that causes a lot of confusion is minerals and why we need them.

As with Vitamins, most minerals can be found in your food and we all should aim to consume as many as we can from a healthy and varied diet. If there are holes in our nutrition, then a good quality supplement is recommended to ensure your body is getting all of the things it needs to grow and function properly. Different minerals have different functions and not all supplements are the same.

Minerals work in the body together with vitamins and enzymes to control the responses of our nervous system, our muscles and our organs including our heart. Every chemical reaction that occurs in our body such as digestion, the immune system, hormone production, energy production, cell growth, and the reproductive system all require minerals to function properly. In fact

if you don’t have enough minerals in your body, the vitamins you consume don’t work properly either.

Minerals are classifi ed into three categories. Macrominerals, Microminerals and Trace Minerals.

Macrominerals are Essential minerals and are classifi ed as such because your body needs more than 100mg of each of these every day. They include Calcium, Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorus, Magnesium and Sulphur. This doesn’t mean they are more important than the others- we just need more.

Calcium is needed for strong teeth; muscle and nerve function and is the main mineral component of bone. You may be defi cient if you have brittle bones or nails or dry hair, muscle cramps or PMS symptoms. Food sources include milk and dairy, fi sh with edible bones, almonds and green vegetables. Men need about 600mg per day, and women 1200mg, and more during pregnancy.

Potassium is needed for proper nerve function, muscle contraction and for healthy blood pressure and you can get it from most fruit and vegetables. Signs of defi ciency include muscle weakness, cramping and occasional dizziness. The recommended daily intake (RDI) is 4700mg. A banana has about 450mg.

Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates body fl uid volume and blood pressure and can be found in table salt, dairy and seafood. Defi ciency can lead to headaches, confusion and gastrointestinal upsets. We need between 900 -2300mg per day. This may seem like a lot- but that is the equivalent of one teaspoon. The average Australian diet contains 10 to 20 times this amount as it is added to most processed food. Make sure you keep an eye on the nutritional information on the back of packages and steer clear of too much sodium. Too much can lead to dehydration and high blood pressure.

Phosphorous is important for strong bones, healthy metabolism and proper nerve function, and is found in meat, fi sh and dairy. If you suffer from joint pain, stiffness, or if you have recently developed a lack of appetite, you may be defi cient. RDI is about 1000mg.

Magnesium is needed for healthy muscles and tissues and you can get it from nuts, legumes, whole grains and green vegetables. If you fi nd yourself suffering from cramping muscles or jumpy, twitchy limbs, or you are having trouble sleeping, you may be defi cient. We need about 350-400mg per day.

Sulphur is needed for healthy hair skin and nails and can be found in

meat, eggs, dairy and vegetables. It is unusual to be defi cient in this mineral as it is so readily available in food.

What to watch out for in a supplement: Calcium and Magnesium are the two main Macrominerals that people tend to be defi cient in as many diets don’t include enough dairy or green vegetables. Look for a supplement that is ‘chelated’ as it helps your body absorb the mineral more easily.

Next month I will be covering the role of other Essential minerals classifi ed as Microminerals which include Zinc, Iron, Copper, Manganese and Iodine, and other trace minerals.

If you would like some more information on the highest quality vitamins that I personally take, and recommend in my clinic, go to http://chihealth.gnld.net/

Nicole Hutcheson is a highly skilled Professional Kinesiology Practitioner and an internationally qualifi ed Instructor. Nicole is a regular professional contributor.

If you would like to make an appointment with Nicole, call 9819 6835 or email nicole@chikinesiology.com.au

MINERALS

There are an estimated 246,200 single parents in Victoria many of which are in need of some good news!

The YMCA’s Parentlink program, which provides support and advice to single parents, will now be free. Single parents in Docklands and

Melbourne city are encouraged to join Parentlink, which offers activities and programs such as barbecues, excursions and holiday camps. (There is a cost for some of these activities.)

From 1 January 2013 single parents whose youngest child is aged

eight will lose entitlement to the current Parenting Payment.

YMCA Victoria chief executive Peter Burns said Parentlink was a very special program that had helped many single parents feel less isolated and given children many great experiences.

To fi nd out more about Parentlink, visit www.victoria.ymca.org.au/parentlink

PARENTLINK REACHES OUT TO SINGLE PARENTS IN CITY

WHAT THEY DO AND WHY WE NEED THEM?

wrote about vitamins and the

your body’s health. Another nutritional

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NEW BEGINNINGS by Susan Wells and Nandita Chakraborty

Prologue

Adjusting his dictaphone clumsily, the journalist accidently knocks his cup of coffee on his clean white shirt. He hurriedly grabbed a paper towel to wipe it off.

Sadly, the stains would remind him relentlessly of his careless approach.

Richard Saunders was usually more fastidious, but today he was nervous. Not because it was his fi rst assignment, or, indeed, his last. He was nervous of his guest; his larger than life personality, Braxton Miles.

“Should we start the interview now?”

“Yes absolutely! Let’s begin from your childhood.”

Braxton smiled at Richard.

“Umm, perhaps from the day I was born?”

He paused to sift through his collection of photos mixed with pieces of loose paper and cards and taking out a photo of his mother, began to recall.

“My mother often told this story, the birth of a recluse.’’ Braxton winked at Richard.

“Masses of beautiful yellow daffodils had bloomed overnight, lining the path to the clothes line, bounded by the tall mountain gums. The sunlight at dawn was fi ltering through magnifi cent foliage, speckling the path with almost incandescent new light. I stepped carefully… a basket of washing to hang out before we left.

It was six fi fteen on the morning of October eighteenth, two thousand ten. I had awoken on the dot of six with labor pains. He was fi nally to arrive and that was it. No going back now.

Labor pains were arriving more quickly now and panic had started to sweep through me as I grabbed my small packed suitcase and waited for my husband to get ready.

Pacing around the house, through the kitchen, pausing only when a labor pain stopped me in my tracks. My thoughts raced almost illogically. Was there enough food in the house? Were there any cakes or biscuits left in the pantry for visitors? And, more importantly, a fl eeting thought; would the old bomb make it to the suburban hospital a few kilometers away?

My husband appeared, at last, in the kitchen doorway.

“Let’s go, let’s get to the car!

We started off, the van twisting and turning its way down the precarious mountain road. But at a hairpin bend, the car made a sudden violent thud and started careening toward an embankment.

In the moment, I turned and saw him frantically fi ghting with the steering wheel, as we hurtled sideways, landing in a deep gap between road and cliff face.

We were stuck. Bogged to be precise. As my labor pains grew stronger, and shorter, I saw him leap out, run around the car, looking for the reason, it seemed.

He stuck his head back in the door, “It’s no use. She’s done a leaf spring. Wait, we’ll have to call an ambulance.”

He leapt back into the driver’s seat grabbing his mobile to make the call.

The tree ferns just above us, greenery calming, directed my gaze upwards as the labor pains ripped and tore at my body and my mind. I tried to imagine the large tree ferns above speaking to me.

“Keep calm, keep calm, all will be well.”

Soon the ambulance would be here, and I would feel better. My husband held my hand as the contractions came, and I tried to take deep breaths, just as my classes had taught. But it was a long wait; the ambulance had to come from below the hill. Flashing lights and blaring siren were the most welcome sights and sounds just then.

On arrival, to the labor ward, time had fl own by and my baby was about to be born. I asked the nurses for drugs, but all they thrust at me was a gas mask. I took one gasp and threw that on the fl oor.

“No! I need proper drugs or an epidural at least!”

“Its too late, they won’t work now.”

They all stood around in what seemed to me, in my pain and confusion, like an army of enemies.

The baby was then born quickly, ferociously. Born of his own decision, on his terms, on his own time, it appeared. A calm, silent little being, from out of nowhere.

He screamed his tiny lungs out as a nurse lifted him up and I felt a sudden sense of wonder! His father cut the cord, the bond between them forged forever… Our new son! I gazed at his tiny head as a nurse placed him on my stomach, his mass of thick black hair. My eyes obscure with tears when he latched onto my breast like he always knew it was there for him. There was so much relief and much love in the room. Time had slowed down. Time stood still; I gazed at the clock on the wall.

It was Twelve Six pm.

My Braxton Miles had been born and thrust into this world head fi rst with little fi sts clenched and those big beautiful eyes and he had seemed to have taken to it like an old hand…”

Richard Saunders looked at Braxton for a very long time, not wanting to interrupt his thoughts. The face of nostalgia reveals more secrets than the face of the present….

Be sure to read on next month for the next installment of ‘In Conversation with Braxton Miles’.

Docklands Writers meet on the last Tuesday of every month from 5.30-7.30pm at the Docklands Hub.

Writers from all genres and levels of experience are welcomed. For more information please email: Jane.X.Hutchinson@gmail.com

IN CONVERSATION WITH BRAXTON MILES

DOCKLANDS WRITERSDOCKLANDS WRITERSDOCKLANDS WRITERSDOCKLANDS WRITERS

BOOK REVIEW BY REBECCA HOWDEN

Semi-Permanent returns to Melbourne for the annual art and design conference of the year, bringing with it an array of international and local guests to draw inspiration from.

The Semi-Permanent conferences are celebrating 10 years of sold out events and this year, directors Andrew Johnstone and Murray Bell will call upon Melbourne’s creative community to get behind them once again. Handpicked by the Semi-Permanent team, the Melbourne lineup is impressive. Inviting high calibre guests who are leaders in their fi elds has always been key to the selection process.

“This year, there is some great talent on board and the Melbourne audience can expect the highest possible standards for the event this year” Bell says.

Heading to Melbourne in September will be LA based photographer/director Mike Piscitelli (Dazed & Confused, Monster Children, Iggy Pop), Artist/Designer Michael Leon (Nike & Commonwealth Stacks), international production house @Radical (Iconoclasts, Mad Men, Six Beers of Separation), Melbourne based cult tattoo artist Bugsy & world renowned street photographer Boogie.

Semi-Permanent is a creative festival hosted around Australia and internationally each year. It typically runs over a three day period incorporating showcase galleries, conference days, side events and after parties. The event is aimed to cater for industry professionals and students. Semi-Permanent also host numerous shows and presentations throughout the duration of the year.

More speakers will be announced for this widely anticipated Melbourne two day event.

When: 14 & 15 SeptemberWhere: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition CentreTickets on sale at www.semipermanent.com

SEMI-PERMANENT BRINGS IN ALL-STAR LINEUP

SEPTEMBER 2012 29

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‘The Night Circus’ by Erin Morgenstern

Le Cirque des Rêves, the spellbinding centre of Erin Morgenstern’s debut novel The Night Circus, is a strange kind of circus. Travelling the world in the late 19th

and early 20th centuries, it arrives in town with no warning or fanfare, and seems to disappear without a trace. The imposing gates open only after nightfall and close before dawn. During the day, a sign warns that “trespassers will be exsanguinated.”

Inside is a labyrinth of black-and-white striped tents, each fi lled with a different wonder. An illusionist turns books into ravens and scarves into doves; a tattooed contortionist folds herself into a glass box; a pair of fl ame-haired children coax their kittens into performing elaborate tumbling acts; a garden of ice grows and blooms into an intricate forest; wooden animals seem to come to life as they gallop around and around on a carousel. Everything is black and white.

Against this backdrop, Celia, the illusionist, and Marco, the proprietor’s assistant, have been pitted against each other in a seemingly endless competition that neither one of them quite understands. From childhood, they have been trained in telekinetic and psychic powers by stern guardians who have created this contest presumably for no other reason than their own sense of power. It’s a ruthless game, and only one contestant can survive. And naturally, it becomes even more complicated when they fall consuming, irrevocably in love.

The novel is fi lled with rich, immersive images and beautiful descriptions. Floor-sweeping gowns that change colour, a bonfi re that glows pure white, and the illusion of a ship made out of books fl oating in an ocean of ink demonstrate Morgenstern’s wonderful imaginative skill. At its most engaging, the narration shifts into second person, inviting the reader to truly experience the enchantment of the circus: “Finally you reach another curtain. Fabric that feels as soft as velvet beneath your hands parts easily when you touch it. The light on the other side is blinding.”

Admittedly, this is far from a literary masterpiece. The plot often meanders, and never quite reaches the intensity it promises. The lush, lyrical descriptions seem to come at the expense of deeper character development, and at times shift into vague statements like “the air itself is magical.” The illusions that occur at the circus are gorgeous, but occasionally a little too cutesy – a pool of tears where sorrows can be tossed like pebbles, for example.

While Morgenstern does shy away from opportunities to use the circus as a more unsettling, transgressive space – this is certainly not Angela Carter’s Nights at the Circus – there is always the hint of its potential for darkness. Interestingly, the most raw and authentic moments occur outside of the circus itself. When Celia is a child, for example, her father repeatedly slices the tips of her fi ngers so that she can practice healing them with her mind. On one occasion, he smashes her wrist with a paperweight. These moments are fi lled with real tension that elevates the story above the merely cute and whimsical.

For some readers, The Night Circus might feel a bit lacking in grit, but although it may be a little frothy at times, it’s a delicious kind of froth. This is a novel that truly immerses you in its colour and fl avour, and the experience is undeniably enchanting.

and early 20th centuries, it arrives in town

of froth. This is a novel that truly immerses you in its colour and fl avour, and the experience

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