ISSUE 7 > AUTUMN 2012
MARGARET DRIVES AWAY A WINNER fROM ESSENDON fIELDS ELIZABETH REDMAN Margaret Brown was taking her sister to the airport when she missed a phone call from an unfamiliar number. She called back straight away, thinking it might be something to do with one of her sons, but instead was surprised with the fabulous news that she had won a car from Essendon Fields Shopping Centre. “I actually just didn’t believe it at first. I asked, are you sure you’ve spun the barrel?” Margaret recalls with a laugh. She had entered the competition run at Essendon Fields Shopping Centre without expecting
too much, let alone to win. It was simple enough, all she had to do was shop at six out of the nine participating retailers over a six-week period, collect tokens from them and complete an entry form. “I didn’t feel I was buying anything extra that I was going out of my way to buy. It was just a matter of visiting the shops I normally go to and getting a little sticker for my entry form.” “The boys and I go up to Essendon Fields at least once a week anyway to do our groceries at Coles,” Margaret adds. “Our routine is to always go into Blue Denim and get a drink for them and a coffee for me. During the school holidays we tend to go to Essendon Fields more often. We have lunch there,
whether it’s at Nando’s or Subway or at one of the other food outlets.” Other participating retailers included Hip Home Ideas, J’Vons, Ookii Sushi, Power Cutz, Skin Scentual, and Top One Bakery. Although the competition was promoted through mobile billboard scooters and on the Essendon Fields Facebook page, it was Margaret’s two sons who encouraged her to enter. “The boys were so keen, so I said let’s just go for it then.” “I’m one of those people who never thinks I’m ever going to win anything,” Margaret says. “You win little things every now and then, like a CD or something small, but I’ve never won anything as big as this, ever.”
The prize was a car of the winner’s choice from any dealership at AutoCentro, a one-stop shopping strip of car dealerships on Wirraway Road located at Essendon Fields. The winner had the choice of any car from the Toyota, Mazda, Honda, Ford, Chrysler Jeep Dodge, Hyundai or VW dealerships up to the value of $18,000 with the complements of Essendon Fields. Winning the car came at a good time as Margaret and her husband had been thinking about replacing his car. “It was a ’98 car that was feeling and looking its age. We were considering changing over the car within the next twelve months or so. This was just an early bonus.”
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ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS > AUTUMN 2012
COVER STORY CONTINUATION
Essendon Chrysler Jeep Dodge - Dealer of the year
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Step up to Step Off! Youth Week 2012
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2013 Registrations for 3 and 4 year old preschool 4 What is your vision for your city in 2035? 5 SUPERANNUATION – It’s Super! 7 Essendon Fields News Events Guide
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History of Essendon Airport - Series 7 9 Tom Gleeson – Melbourne International Comedy Festival 11
Their final choice was a Mazda 3 with added extras including paint protection and tinted windows.
“I have personally driven a Mazda before,” Margaret explained. “It really came down to two dealerships for us and what we were looking for. Our other car is a Honda and we like both of our cars and their versatility. As we were primarily replacing my husband’s car, he decided finally on the Mazda 3, it was just that little bit bigger than some of the others to suit our particular lifestyle.”
“It drives well, it’s really fantastic. We really like four-door hatches; they have been our car of choice. We have dogs and it’s easier to accommodate our lifestyle with the kids and the dogs in a hatchback vehicle.”
Margaret’s husband is currently driving their new car. Their sons are now 11 and 12 years old, so there are still a few years ahead before they will want to borrow it. “Sadly, probably not long enough!” Margaret adds with a laugh.
Essendon Fields Pty Ltd Level 2, 7 English St Essendon Fields 3041 T 9948 9400 F 9948 9330 www.essendonfields.com.au CEO: Chris Cowan 9948 9400 Marketing Manager: Dee Johns 9948 9408 Leasing: Jodie Schickerling 9948 9400 Essendon Fields News: Publisher: MagMedia Suite 3 15-17 Pakington St St Kilda VIC 3182 8506 9908 Editor: Lisa Quittner editor@essendonfieldsnews.com.au
Marketing: Dee Johns djohns@essendonfields.com.au Sales and Advertising: Sarah Rossato sales@essendonfieldsnews.com.au Cover page Image - Margaret Brown drives home her new Mazda 3 a winner. Contributing writers: Elizabeth Redman, Costa Rolfe, Roger Meyer, Geoff Steer, Lisa Quittner, Design: Smith and Rowe studio@smithandrowe.com.au Essendon Fields News welcomes any contributions from our readers. Please send material to the editor. Essendon Fields News is a free publication and is distributed through selected outlets.
Views expressed in Essendon Fields News do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editor or publisher. No responsibility is accepted by Essendon Fields News for the accuracy of the advertisements or information within the publication. All material forwarded to the newspaper will be assumed intended for publication unless clearly labelled “Not for publication”. 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.
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AUTUMN 2012 > ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS
ESSENDON ChRYSLER JEEp DODGE WINS COVETED ‘DEALER Of ThE YEAR’ AWARD COSTA ROLFE | COMMUNITY Paul Hopper has been involved in the car industry since 1992 – his grandfather jumpstarted it all in country Victoria in the early 1960’s – Hopper is the Dealer Principal of Essendon Chrysler Jeep Dodge, which first opened at Essendon Fields in July 2008. And with a broad range of new and used vehicles – as well as comprehensive servicing, parts and accessories under his directorship – this third-generation automobile retailer won’t be looking to trade it all in any time soon.
Recipient of the 2011 Chrysler Australia Metro Dealer of the Year Award, the success of Essendon Chrysler Jeep Dodge is founded on an unshakeable commitment to customers and staff alike. The coveted ‘Dealer of the Year’ awards recognise individual dealers who achieve the highest standards of performance and professionalism in key areas of their business, including sales, service, and parts and accessories. “We are very proud of the ‘Number One dealer in the country’ tag, but we don’t say that for bragging rights. It’s a testimony to customer satisfaction levels,” Hopper asserts. “Central to all that we do at Essendon Chrysler Jeep Dodge is our commitment to our customers.” And whilst this old adage of the customer ‘always being right’ clearly holds true at Essendon Chrysler Jeep Dodge, the company’s attention to its own is perhaps its most lucrative investment. A welcoming, healthy working environment and the focus on long-term staff retention, Hopper states, have proved invaluable. “There are no ambitious statements on the walls or well-doctrinated philosophies. We just focus on looking after our staff and our factory, and it all comes together.”
Left: Paul Hopper receiving 2011 Chrysler Australia Metro Dealer of the Year Award
Essendon Jeep’s achievements are not just down to pot luck or the bounce of the ball, however. One astute way to raise the dealership’s community profile has been to magnify it through the lens of this city’s most enduring love: football. Following the lead of one of their parent companies Jeep – joint major sponsors of the Richmond Football Club – Essendon Jeep has taken it upon themselves to sponsor a brace of Tigers players, namely Kelvin Moore and Dustin ‘Don’t Argue’ Martin. Throw in a couple of high-level Richmond memberships and regular fundraising contributions to the Tiger war-chest, and this dealership’s black engine grease begins to take on a yellow streak of sorts (despite being behind enemy lines!). Furthermore, Essendon Chrysler Jeep Dodge sponsors the Victorian Football League, allowing the much-appreciated online radio broadcast of approximately 20 VFL games per year to coveragestarved fans of the ‘second-tier’ league. “We also do a fair bit with Moonee Valley Raceclub,” Hopper adds, “which is topical around the community there. We employ a lot of people around the area and try and contribute as much as we can.”
Hopper also pays special tribute to Essendon Fields itself, and the quality facilities that allowed a fledgling dealership – the first of its kind at the site – to expand so rapidly. This reciprocal relationship, it seems, is something other companies considering relocation should take into account. “The idea works. We were pioneers of sorts because we were the first to sign up, but we remain entirely thankful for the opportunity. Essendon Fields are very good landlords for us. There may be a landlord-tenant relationship, but they are actually like our partners.” So on our next visit to Essendon Jeep, what should we be taking for a test drive? Hopper is particularly taken with the $26,500 Jeep Compass. “This is the first time that we’ve had a genuinely complete sub $30,000 offering. It is a very good affordable vehicle that is selling really well; the customers simply love them.” But it is an old favourite that continues to terrorise its opposition, kicking bags of goals season after season. “The Grand Cherokee has won a whole bunch of major awards, including a few major awards last year, and just keeps going from strength to strength.”
GEOff’S SCORES A TOp 10! LISA QUITTNER | COMMUNITY
to provide a guide to the top financial planners for investors and clients.
Geoff Steer, Founding Partner and Associate at Matthews Steer Chartered Accountants, located at Essendon Fields, was recently recognised as one of the Top 10 Financial Planners in Australia by the Australian Financial Review’s Smart Investor Magazine out of a pool of almost 200 entrants nationwide.
Applicants are set a tough and rigorous 45 question online exam which tests their technical expertise and knowledge in areas which includes superannuation, taxation, social security, investment, financial maths, asset allocation as well as estate planning and a list of other financial areas. In addition, comprehensive and up to date knowledge of current legislative issues is required to test entrants on their ability to advise and support clients through periods of market volatility.
The annual Financial Smart Investor Masterclass Awards were introduced by Smart Investor Magazine in 1998, as a means
This is the first time Geoff, a Moonee Valley resident, has applied to sit the exam; he attributes his outstanding result to his experience in taxation and providing financial advice. Prior to joining Ken Matthews to form Matthews Steer Chartered Accountants in 1990, Geoff was a Senior Tax Manager with the international accounting firm of Arthur Andersen & Co for over 10 years. Geoff Steer and Ken Matthews take great pride in the calibre of their 33 staff and their wealth of proficiency, it is clear that leading by example is the modus operandi at Matthews
Steer. Clients can rest assured that a firm understanding in all areas of financial affairs, laws, rules and regulations is just the start of the service provided at Matthews Steer. matthews steer chartered accountants essendon Fields house level 2, 7 english street essendon Fields phone: 9325 6300
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ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS > AUTUMN 2012
Step up to Step Off! Youth Week 2012
Moonee Valley City Council’s urban dance crew competition Step Off! is back as part of the local 2012 National Youth Week celebrations with tickets now on sale. A crowd of about 1,600 people attended last year’s Step Off!, which featured about 400 dancers from all over Melbourne.
Moonee Valley Mayor Cr Jim Cusack encouraged all young people in Moonee Valley to come along to this annual sell-out event. “Step Off! is a key part of Council’s National Youth Week roster of events and is a feature on the hip hop dance event circuit,” he said.
“Step Off! provides an invaluable platform for young performers to showcase their talent and it’s great to see it grow each year.”
brand new Youth Summit – get bigger and better each year, giving local young people the chance to have fun and express themselves,” she said.
Jason Coleman, an internationally renowned choreographer and artist, will be a guest judge for the third year in a row. Jason Coleman choreographed the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and runs Ministry of Dance, the largest dance school in the Southern Hemisphere.
In partnership with City of Melbourne, the eighth annual event takes place on Saturday, 14 April at the Dallas Brooks Centre, 300 Albert Street, East Melbourne. Doors open at 6pm and the show starts at 7pm sharp.
Deputy Mayor and Community Services portfolio holder Cr Miriam Gillis said Moonee Valley is known for holding the biggest National Youth Week events in Australia and this year will be no exception. “Council is proud and that our National Youth Week events – Step Off!, Sounds Loud and the
APRIL SCHOOL HOLIDAY IDEAS
Tickets to this all ages drug, alcohol and smoke-free event will sell out quickly so buy your tickets early to avoid disappointment. Tickets will be available at the Clocktower Centre, 750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds and can also be purchased over the phone by calling the Box Office on 9243 9191 or online at clocktowercentre.com.au.
Does Competition Run in your Blood? Moonee Valley is rising to the challenge to become the state’s most generous blood donating city, as part of the Australian Red Cross Blood Service’s ‘Battle of the Burbs’. Residents are encouraged to donate blood as part of the challenge, which runs until April 29th, 2012. If you are eligible to donate and haven’t before, now is the time to start. It’s easy to do and the appointment only takes around an hour all up.
JAMES AND THE GIANT SCOOBY-DOO LIVE! PEACH MUSICAL MYSTERIES
DANCE OF THE RAYS
Join James and his motley assortment of oversized friends in this innovative musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s classic. Recommended for ages 4 and above.
Over 30 new rays will dance across their underwater stage in a choreographed formation rivalling the most disciplined performers, creating a mesmerising new addition to Melbourne Aquarium’s 2.2 million litre Oceanarium. When: 31 March to 15 April Time: 9:30am until 6pm Where: Cnr Flinders & King Sts, Melbourne Visit: www.melbourneaquarium.com.au
When: Tuesday 3 April Time: 10am and 12 Noon Where: Clocktower Centre, 750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds Tickets: $20.00 Bookings: 9243 9191 or www.clocktowercentre.com.au
See Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. gang help solve an epic mystery live at The Princess Theatre. This live show features big musical numbers including the evergreen Scooby- Doo theme song, ‘Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?’ alongside fun new songs. When: Thursday 5 and Saturday 7 April Where: Princess Theatre – 163 Spring St, Melb Tickets: Ticketmaster on 136 100 Visit: www.scoobydoolive.com.au & www.lifeliketouring.com
2013 Registrations for 3 and 4 year old preschool Open this April Preschool is the first step in your child’s education and is a valuable tool to enable children to interact and play with other children, develop their independence and begin the foundations of a love of learning through play. Registrations for three and four year old programs under the MooneeValley Central Enrolment Scheme for 2013 will be open from Thursday, 19 April 2012. Registration forms will be available to download from the MooneeValley City Council website or can be collected from MooneeValley Civic Centre, participating preschools, libraries and Maternal Child and Health Care Centres. Placements are allocated through the Central Registration Scheme, which ensures a fair and efficient enrolment system, no longer based on ‘first in best dressed’. All preschools participating in the scheme have an approved set of criteria to prioritise applicants and allocate places according to these criteria, with no priority given to the date of application.
Three year old programs Children attending a three year old program have an opportunity to engage with other children and adults in a play-based curriculum. Play is the basis for all learning. Preschool staff use their knowledge of children’s development to extend children’s learning, their independence, creativity and expressive thought.
Four year old programs The preschool (Kindergarten) year aims to encourage the development of children’s self-esteem, to encourage children to believe in themselves and understand that they are independent and capable beings, to encourage the children to feel secure and confident and to express themselves to others. Children are valued as active citizens. Early Childhood Educators develop programs for children based on the National andVictorian EarlyYears Learning Frameworks and offer a play based curriculum. To find out more about four year old preschool programs in your area, including how to apply to enrol your child into a program, please visit the MVCC website. Preschool programs under the Central Enrolment Scheme Airport West Kindergarten 97 McNamara Avenue Airport West Call: 9338 1516 Ascot Kindergarten 1 West Street (Corner Middle Street) Ascot Vale Call: 9375 3548 Website: www.ascotkindergarten.vic.edu.au Ave Maria Kindergarten 35 Fawkner Street Essendon Call: 9337 7286 Avondale Heights Kindergarten 7 Clarendon Street Avondale Heights Call: 9317 8885
The statistics state 1 in 3 people need blood, but only 1 in 30 give blood. Obviously, educating the community of the importance of blood donations is critical. If you haven’t donated before now is the time to start, it’s easy and it will only take an hour of your time if you are eligible to donate. To get a little friendly rivalry flowing, each donor’s residential post code is used to determine which city they belong to. The city with the most donations, as a percentage of its population, will be crowned the winner. The Airport West Donor Centre is located at Unit 3, 93 Matthews Avenue or you can visit the Bourke Street Donor Centre at Level 2, 360 Bourke Street, or any other donor centre located within Melbourne. Do it for your fellow human and do it for your city! Visit donateblood.com.au for more information, and complete the online quiz to determine whether you are eligible or not to make a donation. To book an appointment, call 13 14 95.
Beaver Street Kindergarten 13A Beaver Street Essendon Call: 9337 9788
North Essendon Kindergarten Corner McCulloch and Kerferd Streets North Essendon Call: 9379 6802
Cooper Street 3 yo Program Cnr Cooper & Spencer Street Essendon Call: 9243 1075
Progress Kindergarten 11 Brown Avenue Ascot Vale Call: 9375 3409
Coronation Kindergarten 34 Roseberry Street Ascot Vale Call: 9370 5895
Rhonda Davis Kindergarten 54 Lake Street Avondale Heights Call: 9331 0362
Hopetoun Children’s Centre Corner Racecourse Road and Victoria Street Flemington Call: 9376 6576
St. Andrew’s Kindergarten 29 St. Kinnord Street Aberfeldie Call: 9337 4050
Keilor East Kindergarten 31 Mark Street Keilor East Call: 9336 2958
St. Brendan’s Kindergarten 25 Bryant Street Flemington Call: 9376 6305
Lincolnville Kindergarten Devon Avenue Keilor East Call: 9337 2106
Strathmore Community Kindergarten Loeman Street Strathmore Call: 9379 8642
Milleara Gardens Kindergarten Park Drive Keilor East Call: 9337 6514
Strathmore Heights Kindergarten 148 Mascoma Street Strathmore Heights Call: 9338 3669
Milleara Integrated Learning and Development Centre Corner Keilor Park Drive and Milleara Road, East Keilor Call: 9289 1500
The Crossway Preschool Corner The Crossway and Upland Road Strathmore Call: 9379 8752
Montgomery Park Kindergarten Hilda Street Essendon Call: 9370 5145
More information For more information about the new enrolment scheme, criteria or preschool program, contact the Central Enrolment team on 9243 8888 or email kinderenrol@mvcc.vic.gov.au.
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AUTUMN 2012 > ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS
One Community, Many Faiths -
Interfaith Network established in Moonee Valley Moonee Valley City Council is supporting an Interfaith Network to increase peace and goodwill between the beliefs and faiths in the municipality. The Moonee Valley Interfaith Network is actively seeking members. Moonee Valley Mayor Cr Jim Cusack said the Moonee Valley Interfaith Network sought to have a harmonious influence in the community.“We are proud to help establish this network so they can work with the community to promote understanding and acceptance of different beliefs and faiths,” Cr Cusack said “I encourage anyone who lives or worships in Moonee Valley to join the Interfaith Network.” By becoming a valued member of the Moonee Valley Interfaith Network, you will have opportunities to: • Contribute your ideas to interfaith activities • Receive early notice of forthcoming events
• S upport the celebration of our similarities and differences • B ecome a peacemaker and a champion of goodwill Moonee Valley Interfaith Network board member Cr Ange Kenos said to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week the group will also be holding bus tours. “Bus tours will be held during Cultural Diversity Week with additional tours being run on 31 March and 14 April,” Cr Kenos said “The bus tours are a celebration of religious diversity in Moonee Valley and surrounding areas. Participants will have the opportunity to be welcomed by a member or leader of each faith and to learn something of their belief, practices and community here in Moonee Valley.” For more information and to join the Moonee Valley Interfaith Network or the bus tours visit www.mvin.org.au
• A ctively participate and contribute to enrich the community
Sounds Loud Festival Returns to Queens Park Come along to see Australia’s hottest acts and next big things grace the Sounds Loud Festival stages. This year will showcase local bands with one of the two stages dedicated to local acts. Included in the line-up is local band and Moonee Valley Push Start Battle of the Bands heat winners Blood Orange and Western Metro Regional Final winners Granston Display. Sounds Loud Festival aims to provide people of all age’s free access to quality live music in a safe, supervised and alcohol-free environment. This is the largest Youth Week event in Australia and is a fully supervised, drug, alcohol and smoke-free event.
Until the end of May 2012, Council will be asking everyone who lives, studies or works in Moonee Valley to think about what they want their city to be like in 2035 and help create a community plan for the future. Moonee Valley Mayor Cr Jim Cusack said all of us can help shape the future by sharing the long-term vision we have for our city. “As we collect the community’s aspirations for the future, an image will emerge. This shared vision will represent the values and priorities of local residents, students, workers and businesses. It will provide directions we can all work towards for a healthy, sustainable, successful community,” Cr Cusack said. This shared vision will be the basis for a long-term plan developed with the community. The Community Plan will set out directions and steps to help make sure we build the kind of city we aspire to. Some of these steps will involve Council action, some will involve partnerships and some will be taken up by community agencies and businesses in Moonee Valley. Portfolio holder for Community Services and Partnerships and Deputy Mayor Cr Miriam Gillis said that this was a project that needed everyone’s involvement.
• L earn about the customs, cultures and beliefs of other faiths
To celebrate Youth Week, the free and all ages Sounds Loud Festival is proudly returning to Melbourne’s Queens Park on Sunday, 15 April 2012.
What is your vision for your city in 2035?
This year’s line up will include:
• Stonefield • Bleeding Knees Club • Dream on Dreamer • Hand Of Mercy • For Our Hero • The Sweet Apes • Amber Lamps • 8 Bit Love Run by Moonee Valley City Council and completely non-profit, Sounds Loud Festival is proudly brought to you by Bendigo Bank, Kangan Institute and Teletruck, with support from Beat Magazine, Freeza and Syn. Sounds Loud Festival When: Sunday, 15 April 2012, 12 noon-7pm Where: Queens Park, Cnr Mount Alexander Road and Kellaway Avenue, Moonee Ponds FREE
“The more people have their say, the more the shared vision will be a true reflection what matters to our community. So it is important that as many of us as possible take a few minutes to reflect on the city we want for the next generation. I encourage all generations to fill in the survey and urge their families, colleagues and neighbours to do the same,” Cr Gillis said. There are several ways residents, students, workers and business owners can have their say and share their vision by either: • F illing in an online survey and taking part in the online forum on haveyoursaymv.com.au/mv2035 • P icking up a copy of the survey at the Civic Centre, your local library or community centre.You can either drop your filled survey at the Civic Centre, in the MV 2035 Visions Box (locations to be announced on Council’s website) or send it back (reply paid) • A ttending a community event and completing a survey on the spot For more information, visit mvcc.vic.gov.au/mv2035
Register your best friend this April All cats and dogs over the age of three months must be microchipped and registered with the local council for your pets safety and to make sure your four legged, best friend can be returned to you in the event that they get lost or injured. Annual pet registrations are due for renewal before April 10, 2012, and you can be fined if your dogs and cats are not registered. Council offers free, first time registration for dogs and cats under the age of three months. After paying the registration fees, you will be issued with an identification tag that needs to be attached to your pet’s collar. Since July 2011, Moonee Valley City Council now requires that all cats be kept securely on their property between sunset and sunrise. The curfew is in place to keep all cats safe as well as protect the environment and local wildlife. The urban environment can be a dangerous place for cats at night; cats can be run over by cars, attacked by dogs,
tormented by humans, injured in cat fights and can also pick up nasty diseases. As for dogs, on-leash laws are in place to ensure the community at large is safe, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times when in a public place, however, dogs can run free in designated off-leash parks. This does not apply to dogs that have been declared Dangerous, Menacing or a Restricted Dog Breed or a Greyhound, which must meet the restraint requirements specified under the Domestic Animal Act 1994. The State Government has changed laws for restricted breeds of dogs. Owners of these breeds are encouraged to come forward, participate in an amnesty that ended on 29 September 2011 and register their dogs. Council is happy to work together with responsible pet owners. If you have concerns or questions on any of the above please call 9243 8888.
AUTUMN 2012 > ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS
SUpERANNUATION – IT’S SUpER!!!
GEOFF STEER | fINANCIAL fREEDOM This is the first of a series of articles designed to educate, inform and encourage you to get more enthusiastic about your personal financial affairs and ensure you maximise opportunities as you move to a position of ‘Financial Freedom’. In our debut article we’ll look at Superannuation - an area that’s got just about everybody confused - which is a pity, because it’s not that hard – but extremely important. Superannuation in some form has existed in Australia for more than a century, but the introduction of the Superannuation Guarantee (SG) on 1st July 1992 has made Superannuation the trillion dollar industry it is today. In the 1992/93 financial year, employers had to make contributions on behalf of their employees of 3% of their salary (an additional cost to employers). Over time the required amount has increased to the current level of 9%. Labor government proposals would see this increase to a maximum of 12% by the year 2019/20. However, super is not restricted to employer contributions. Just about anybody (there are a few exceptions) can contribute funds into their own superannuation out of their pre-tax salaries in the form of salary sacrifice, or out of post-tax dollars in the form of savings. I discuss these further below, but first, let’s look at the number one myth surrounding Super. superannuation is a poor investment….
Superannuation is actually a form of tax structure in which investments can be held, it is not a direct investment itself. The performance of Superannuation is a direct result of the performance of the underlying investments held by your super fund. These may be growth assets (domestic/international shares and property) or defensive assets (cash and fixed interest).You should have some understanding of how and where
BE pART Of pLANNING fOR CITY SUSTAINABILITY
your super is invested, as you can generally have some influence on how the funds are invested.
The community is being asked to help develop a City Sustainability Strategy to guide the best use of Moonee Valley’s valuable space and resources.
The introduction of Choice of Fund on July 1st 2005, gave the majority of Australian’s the opportunity to take control of their own super and have more influence into how and where it is invested. Currently in Australia, there are three main options for holding Superannuation investments:
Until August 2012, Council is looking for ideas for city sustainability from people and groups living and working across Moonee Valley. “When completed, the strategy will inform design of our streets, neighbourhoods, businesses and homes, and focus on sustainability including our access to water, power, food and green spaces, all important for our liveability,” Moonee Valley Cr Jim Cusack said.
1 - Industry Funds (eg health super, aus super) 2 - retail Funds (eg BT, colonial) 3 - self managed superannuation Funds
To provide some background to the whole topic of Superannuation, let’s look at the type of contributions that can be made: Concessional – these include employer, salary sacrifice and personal contributions where a tax deduction is claimed. They are taxed at 15% when deposited into the fund. The concessional contribution caps (the maximum amount someone can contribute tax effectively) are $25K for those aged under 50 and $50K for those above. From 1/7/2012, the concessional caps will revert to $25K irrespective of age. Non-Concessional - these are generally personal, after tax contributions. Because tax was paid on this money when it was earned, all such deposits are tax free, provided they are within the prescribed contribution caps. These caps are currently $150K per annum for people under the age of 75, but you can bring forward two years of contribution and inject a total of $450K, for those aged under 65. The superannuation cycle has two stages – Accumulation and Pension. Accumulation relates to the stage prior to commencement of income streams and/or lump sum withdrawals. Funds are built up over time to provide for the second stage being the pension phase, where income and assets are drawn upon in retirement.
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So what is the attraction of Super and why should we all ensure we spend time to make sure it is working for us? • In many cases, it will be the largest asset you will have outside of the family home. • It is a very tax effective investment vehicle with tax generally attracting a marginal rate of 15% and tax free in retirement. • Access to government related benefits (ie Aged Pension) will become increasingly difficult in future with an ageing population. • You can control the underlying investments to varying degrees depending on the fund chosen. So, now that you are more informed, why not consider reviewing your superannuation, understand how and where it’s invested and start to think about how much you may need in retirement. Then set some plans to achieve the goal of ‘financial freedom’. contact matthews steer on 9325 6300 or visit: matthewssteer.com.au
“This will be the new generation of environment planning for Council, replacing our Environmental Sustainability Plan 2007-12 and moving beyond considering energy, waste and water, to instead using them as the source and driver for planning our city and lifestyle. ”I encourage the whole community to get involved and think about making a contribution over the next five months to the creation of a robust and visionary strategy that will carry the municipality forward for many years,” he said. To inspire people’s thinking Council has posted a series of conversation starters on its website at mvcc.vic.gov.au/css. Residents can also fill in an online or hard copy survey and come along to one of Council’s discussion events. After initial consultation, Council will write a draft City Sustainability Strategy based on community feedback and suggestions. It is proposed that the draft strategy will then be released for feedback in January 2013 before hopefully being adopted by Council in March 2013. If you would like to be kept informed of upcoming City Sustainability Strategy events or about the outcomes of the consultation process, please email environment@mvcc.vic.gov.au.
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ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS > AUTUMN 2012
The Atrium Project: Filling The Void The Incinerator Gallery is proud to present The Atrium Project: Filling The Void exploring the power of art in turning barren spaces into energetic and invigorating places. Each month a new contemporary artist will transform The Atrium Space with extraordinary installations bringing the Walter Burley Griffith heritage building to life. The Incinerator’s curator Richard Ennis said The Atrium Project was an exciting turning point for the gallery and for art in the western suburbs of Melbourne. “We’re not only filling the void that is a result of the architecture of the building, but filling the void with good quality art and thought provoking exhibitions, currently lacking in the West and North-Western suburbs of Melbourne. “The West hasn’t got much in terms of public galleries, so this project coupled with our upcoming curated exhibition program will
give visitors this side of the river another great location for experiencing Australian art in one of Melbourne’s most historically significant pieces of modernist style architecture, the Walter Burley Griffin Incinerator,” said Mr. Ennis. Highlights include acclaimed sculpture and installation artist, Ewen Coates, whose work is included in the Heidi Collection in Melbourne and in private collections internationally. He will turn The Atrium into an exploration of a parallel universe, with a bronze based floor installation Hatchlings. Later in the year, artist Andy Hutson will enter The Atrium’s void to recreate a huge cave called In The Primordial Cave. The installation encourages viewers to explore the oldest example of human creation and remind us of our natural link to nature, again provoking thoughts on our endless endeavour to perfect the built form and the connection with the heritage of the site itself. Seven artists will contribute to the exhibition throughout 2012 and include: ALEXANDRE PRADO Until 25 March EWEN COATES
13 April – 13 May
ANDY HUTSON
13 July – 5 August
ANZAC Day Commemoration and Remembrance ANZAC Day marks the anniversary of the first major action by Australian and New Zealand troops in the Great War when, at dawn on April 25th 1915, they landed on the beaches at Gallipoli in the Dardanelles Strait. Here they fought troops of the Ottoman Empire alongside British, French and Indian allies. Today ANZAC Day is the most important day of remembrance and commemoration in both New Zealand and Australia and dawn services are attended by hundreds of thousands of people across both countries. This year the Dawn Service will commence on the Shrine of Remembrance Forecourt at 6am. The Public are encouraged to arrive prior to 6am. The ANZAC Day March along St Kilda Road starts at approximately 9am and concludes at the Shrine by 1pm for the Commemorative Service. When: Wednesday 25 April, from 6am Where: Shrine of Remembrance -
Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne Further Information: www.shrine.org.au
or 9661 8100.
Shrine School Holiday Program In the lead up to ANZAC Day, bring your family to the Shrine of Remembrance to learn about the ANZACs at Gallipoli and build your own Shrine. Through photographs and uniforms, participants will find out about the Australian experience at Gallipoli in 1915 and construct a 3D Shrine to take home in honour of those who have served. Suitable for ages 6-12 years. When: Monday 2 April to Friday 13 April 2012
(excluding public holidays) Times: 11am-2pm weekdays; activity takes
approx. 20 minutes. Where: Shrine of Remembrance, Visitor Centre. Cost: Free - donations welcome. Bookings and Information: 9661 8100
LAURA WOODWARD 10 August – 9 September JODIE GOLDRING
14 September – 7 October
DAVINA ADAMSON 12 October – 4 November BETH ARNOLD
9 November – 10 December
The Incinerator Gallery 180 Holmes Road, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039 Phone: 8325 1750 Web: www.incineratorgallery.com.au ‘Hatchlings’ by Ewen Coates
The HIA Melbourne Home Show
The Melbourne Home Show is Australia’s premier Building and Renovation Expo and it is back with over 300 exhibitors on show. Your one stop shop for finding new building products, flooring, bathroom fixtures and fittings, fireplaces, lighting, window coverings, doors and windows, furniture and furnishings, outdoor living, fencing, storage solutions, appliances, homewares, home security and even more. New this year is the ‘Design Lounge’ which will educate, inspire and entertain homeowners with renovation and interior projects. Meet Shayanna Blaze from Channel 9’s The Block, editors from House & Garden and Real Living, interior designer Roberto Iaccino, design experts as well as Editor of Money Magazine, Effie Zahos discussing ‘How to improve your Property Value’. Discover the best-of the-best award winning home designs and building products from a range of exhibitors - a “must inspect” for renovators and those building a new home. Take advantage of the Show’s free “Ask an Expert” consultation service or bring along your plans to get specialist advice from HIA builders When: 26-29 April, 2012 Where: Melbourne Exhibition Centre, Southbank Web: HIAhomeshow.com.au
PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ
Lenny Henry – Cradle to Rave
A young and exciting cast star in this song and dance event featuring the glorious sounds of the 1930’s and 1940’s swing era including music from some of the greatest composers of our time -George Gershwin, Irving Berlin and Cole Porter. Under the direction of John Lidgerwood, enjoy the sounds of the most memorable and romantic era of music showcasing music from shows such as Top Hat, Porgy & Bess, Strike Up The Band, Ziegfeld Follies and numerous other hit songs from the time. Enjoy complimentary morning tea before the show begins, served from 10:15am When: Tuesday 24 April at 11am Where: Clocktower Centre, 750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds Tickets: $19.00 Bookings: 9243 9191 or www.clocktowercentre.com.au
Acclaimed UK comedian, actor, writer, TV presenter, radio host and all-round Renaissance man Lenny Henry returns to his roots with a funky, funny and personal one man show, ‘Cradle to Rave’, about the thing he loves most: music. Touring nationally in June, ‘Cradle to Rave’ is Henry’s most personal show yet, offering a hilarious and touching insight into a man to whom music matters a little too much. From growing up thinking Elvis was a relative as there were so many pictures of him in the house, ‘Cradle to Rave’ sets Henry’s family, first loves and fame against a musical backdrop – a comic cabaret voyage through his life told via its eclectic soundtrack. Directed by the critically acclaimed UK theatre director Richard Wilson. When: 21 & 22 June, 2012 Where: Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne Bookings: 1300 795 012 or www.ticketek.com.au
ESSENDON FIELDS NEWS
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
AN EVENING WITH SILVIE PALADINO
Silvie Paladino is one of Australia’s most versatile and talented entertainers, having performed across the country, in Asia and in London’s West End. Well known for her regular stage appearances in Les Miserables, Miss Saigon and Mamma Mia, as well as a regular favourite at Carols by Candlelight. Join Silvie for an evening of music from her debut solo album, appropriately-titled On My Own, an uplifting celebration of the joy of songs from musicals, and other classics honouring some of the most popular female vocalists of our time. An Evening with Silvie Paladino will feature David Cameron accompanying Silvie on piano. The show runs for approximately 90 minutes including an interval break. When: Saturday 19 May at 8pm Sunday 20 May at 5pm Where: Clocktower Centre, 750 Mt Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds Tickets: $39.00 - $49.00 Bookings: 9243 9191 or www.clocktowercentre.com.au
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AUTUMN 2012 > ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS
THE HISTORY OF ESSENDON AIRPORT Roger Meyer OAM | HISTORY SERIES 7
The original site of Essendon Aerodrome had as its western boundary Bulla Road, and the southern boundary was English Street. English Street was named after a family that farmed in the area in the late 19th century, while Bulla Road is self explanatory, describing its destination.
Roberts Avenue. There used to be a number of these attractive street signs on the airport.
It was not until the airport was doubled in area to the west, between Bulla Road and Lancefield Road (now the Tullamarine Freeway) in the early 1940s that roads within the new airport boundaries came into existence. Some already had been given names, such as Short Street, Lionel Street and Vaughan Street. All of these east-west oriented streets had been named as notional roads in earlier subdivision plans, but had never been constructed or developed. Once the airport was extended west of Bulla Road, these streets were within the airport boundary. Similarly, Treadwell Road (now Nomad Road), which ran west of the airport boundary, was also an important road within Essendon Airport. It is interesting to note that a short fragment of Treadwell Road still exists off Keilor Road.
Burgesses at Essendon, 1938. A rare view of the entrance gates to the airport at the corner of Wirraway Road and English streets. The father and son team are Len and Paul Burgess.
What, then, of the roads within the airport, created after the war? Some of the names refer to aircraft types, but with no particular connection to Essendon Airport. These include Bristol Street, Wirraway Road and Nomad Road. However, it is the roads named after aviators that are of particular interest. Hammond Street: Joseph Hammond was born in New Zealand in 1886. He made a number of flights, including the first powered passenger flight, from Altona in 1911.
Vaughan Street. Circa 1947. To the left of Vaughan Street is the tram line where No. 59 (“Essendon Aerodrome”) trams terminated. The line was extended from Keilor Road in 1943 to transport the 4,000 people working on the airport during the war years. In the far distance is Lancefield Road, now the freeway.
Jean Burns. Jean at the unveiling of a plaque on the occasion of the official naming of Burns Street, October 2008.
Larkin Street: Herbert Joseph Larkin was born in 1894, and was a pilot in the First World War. He established an aerodrome at Glen Huntly in 1919, and later moved to Essendon Aerodrome as its first tenant in
October 1921. He later removed his aviation and manufacturing business to Coode Island. Roberts Avenue: Frank Roberts was born in 1896, and flew in the First World War. For a time, he was a pilot for Larkin (possibly the first to fly from Essendon) and in 1935 founded Victoria and Interstate Airways Ltd. He operated the Melbourne to Deniliquin and Hay aerial service from July 1939 until 1941. Hart Street: Hart Aircraft Service Pty Ltd was formed in August 1929 by James (‘Bob’) Hart at Essendon Airport. His company handled aircraft construction, testing, maintenance and servicing. They also conducted passenger flying and aerial taxi work. Hargrave Avenue: Probably named after Lawrence Hargrave (1850 – 1915) who experimented with curved and flat wing surfaces with kites at Stanwell Park, NSW, in 1892. This knowledge contributed to the development of controlled, powered flights by the Wright Brothers in 1903. Bradfield Court: Named after Dr K.N.E. Bradfield OBE who was the Assistant Director-General of Civil Aviation from the 1957 to 1972, responsible for airport development. In the early 1950s, he developed a master plan to expand Essendon Airport, but this never eventuated. He was responsible for the post-war development of Essendon Airport. Burns Street: Jean Burns was the first woman in Australia to be issued with a parachuting licence. She made her first jump at Essendon Aerodrome on 21 November 1921. Edgar Johnston Lane: Edgar Charles Johnston, DFC (1896-1988), as Superintendent of Aerodromes, selected the site of Essendon Aerodrome in May 1921. Soon after, he selected other capital city aerodrome sites at Mascot and Parafield (Adelaide).
Remembering times when cabin crew knew your name Elizabeth Redman | PROFILE When Beverley Louer was an air hostess, she wouldn’t have dreamed of turning up for work without her hat and gloves. A lot has changed since then. Beverley worked in aviation for four years from 1958 to 1962 and was based at Essendon Airport for most of that period. Beverley remembers it as a time when flying was a special occasion and aircraft staff provided a much more personalised service. Beverley had previously worked as a stenographer and wanted to do something different with her career. “To be an air hostess had a lot of glamour and fashion attached to it,” she says. “It seemed to be an elite kind of position for girls.” She was also attracted by the opportunity to meet new people. “You were expected to communicate, sit down and talk to passengers.You had to work hard to always check your manifest and find out who your passengers were, whenever you had a free moment.”Beverley recalls. “You would have to address them by name and converse with them, ask how they were going, or where are they would be terminating their flight – Sydney? Melbourne? Were they travelling for pleasure, or was this a business trip?”
At that time, the business travellers were mainly corporate men in suits. Women were more likely to travel for social reasons, such as embarking on a holiday.
to communicate, “It’s amazing the number of people who used to understand what you’re doing or saying, or the message you’re trying to get across by facial and hand expressions.”
The air hostesses’ personal service included the provision of meals and drinks. “You took trays from the galley and you served them personally to each passenger,” Beverley explains. Flight times used to be longer back then so there was enough time to serve the food and chat to passengers before and after they had their meal.
Even with the high grooming standards and surprise safety checks, things still went wrong occasionally. Beverley recalls being on a flight from Sydney to Coolangatta and preparing to serve a hot lunch of curry and rice.
Over the years, the speed of aircrafts increased and the time spent in the air became shorter. A trolley system was introduced to carry several meals down the aisle at once. “Looking after people became just flat chat. You were still required to carry out your role as you had been trained to do, when the passenger had to be given the maximum consideration at all times in relation to service, and you just didn’t have time to talk to people anymore.” The term “trolley dollies” was coined later to refer to air hostesses. Beverley travelled around Australia and also worked on some international flights. She met passengers from all over the world. Although she didn’t speak a second language she still managed
“The senior hostess had forgotten to check whether we had cutlery. I think we had about 20 teaspoons in the galley, so we had to make light of it and ask people if they’d like to wait. We served out the teaspoons and then had to collect them rapidly and wash them with boiling water in the galley to reissue them to other passengers. Some preferred to use their fingers and we offered them serviettes and hand towels. “We moved like greased lightning to get those spoons back to the galley, washed, dried and reissued.” Beverley said. “You had to think a lot on your feet. You had to improvise,” she adds. “It was a very rewarding job!”
TAA hostess at Essendon Airport, c1960. Image courtesy of Mr Peter J.O. Ralph
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AUTUMN 2012 > ESSENDONFIELDSNEWS
Tom Gleeson – Melbourne International Comedy Festival Lisa Quittner | INTERVIEW For the tenth year in a row, one of Australia’s best comedians, Tom Gleeson returns to the stage at the 2012 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, with a brand new show –‘Good One’. In 2011 Tom toured across Australia before returning to the invite-only Catlaughs Comedy Festival in Ireland and the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal. Oh, and the biggest stand up on the planet, Louis CK chose Tom to be his support act for his Australian tour. Essendon Fields News spoke to Tom about his new show and being part of one of the best international comedy festivals in the world. What motivated your new show, “Good One”? The Melbourne Comedy Festival (MICF) is one of the biggest comedy festivals in the world and I live just down the road in Romsey. I’d be an idiot to not get involved. I love it. I’m a comedian. It’s the one time of year where I get to feel a little bit like a rock star.
How will this show differ from your past shows at the MICF? I’ve become a father for the first time. I feel like I’ve been plugged back into life. I’m back in the game. I see my parents differently too. Not because I’m a father, but because my mum did stand up for the first time and she killed! Contrary to popular belief, comedy is a serious business. You have won the comics choice award at the MICF and have been twice nominated for a Helpmann Award, while working regularly on TV and radio, has having such great success in your career make writing and performing easier or harder, is there more pressure and expectation on you with each show? It’s definitely easier, I know people will turn up to the show. So now all I have to do is think up some ideas that I want to get out there. The pressure is fine, I’d rather the pressure of not letting down a sold out audience than the pressure of trying to get people to turn up. I’m good under pressure, that’s why I love stand up. When I get heckled my heart rate slows down.
Meet Dusty Wygle Nitro Circus Live Lisa Quittner | INTERVIEW The action sports touring sensation, Travis Pastrana’s Nitro Circus Live, returns to Australia following record breaking tours throughout Australia and New Zealand as well as a sold out show at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Since its worldwide debut in Australia in 2010, almost 300,000 tickets have been sold throughout Australia, New Zealand and Las Vegas, USA, resulting in $25 million in ticket sales. In the past 12 months it was the number one entertainment act to visit New Zealand, selling more tickets than huge
international acts such as U2, and finished in the top 10 of all touring acts in Australia. Both tours also smashed all previous action sports tour records. In May, Melbourne audiences have the chance to see the biggest action sports stars in the world as they join the famous Nitro crew to unleash their mind blowing stunts and crazy antics spurred on by the crowd. Not only will all of the stars be performing the biggest tricks in their chosen disciplines, they will also be pushing their limits and skill on a range of crazy contraptions on the Nitro Gigant-A-Ramp.
You have performed for over 10 years consecutively, has the festival changed over years and have Melbourne audiences changed?
Good One with Tom Gleeson
The audiences are a lot more switched on these days. They’ve done their research, they’ve looked you up on YouTube so you can’t get away with doing tired old routines and it has to be tastier than something you could just see on TV. Audiences now have the entire history of comedy available online.
Ticket Prices: From $24 - $30
Showing Until: Sunday 22nd April Where: Victoria Hotel & Melbourne Town Hall ookings: www.comedyfestival.com.au or B Ticketmaster 1300 660 013 or at the door
Where did your earliest inspirations for becoming a comic originate from and who in the world of comedy inspires you today? I used to learn Bill Cosby bits and Monty Python sketches off by heart and recite them to my mates at boarding school. They’re an influence. Last year, I did the support slot for US stand up legend Louis CK on his Australian tour, he told me that I was good, so if that doesn’t inspire you, I don’t know what will.
Essendon Fields News spoke to America’s Dusty Wygle – Nitro star and land bodyboard extraordinaire about the upcoming Australian tour. How did you get started with Nitro Circus, were you the type of kid that would just lunge off rooftops in a bid to fly? I was definitely a rowdy little kid. I was very acrobatic, loved Moto-X and extreme sports, so all of my energy was channelled into that. A friend introduced me to the Nitro crew at a pit-bike race in Las Vegas when I was 19. I got the chance to do a half time show with them. We went crazy. It was super fun. I have been playing with them ever since then, it’s pretty amazing how it all worked out. Do you have a mantra that you say to yourself before you go on stage? I pray for everyone’s safety and that we have a blast performing.Then I dive headfirst off the top of the “Gigant-A-Ramp” roll-in for my intro to the show.
How do you prepare physically and mentally leading up to a show? Staying active year-round is huge for me, I am a very active person by nature. During the week I surf, ride dirt bikes, BMX, skate and recently I’ve tried road-cycling. I am not a big fan of going to the gym, I feel caged up in there, but if my friends prod me to go I will join them at the gym on occasion. Stairs are also good exercise and running up the Gigant-A-Ramp is brutal. Will you be bringing some new stunts to your shows in Australia? Yes. There are some new ideas being worked on at the moment that will be really fun and great to see in the show. What is your all time favourite maneuver that you have done or watched someone else do? Bilko’s “Cliffhumpers” are fun to watch. Bob Burnquist did a “Christ air back flip” at our show in Vegas -it was unreal, as well as anything that Wheelz or Special Greg do. I believe you are a ‘land bodyboard extraordinaire’, for those of us that have absolutely no idea, what does this mean? I have no idea what it means either. It’s something that doesn’t exist outside of the tour. All I know is it’s ridiculously fun and people freak out when they see it. What are your memories of Australia and are you looking forward to returning? Australia is one of my favorite places to visit. I have been there four times already and had the chance to see a different side of it each time. I went beach camping at Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay -two of the greatest places on this planet. I can’t wait to visit again. Can you give us some inside information about what audiences are going to be blown away by in the upcoming Melbourne shows? Have you ever seen Looney Toons? It will be a lot like that!
Nitro Circus Live When: May 25 & 26, 2012 Where: Rod Laver Arena Tickets: Ticketek.com Web: nitrocircuslive.com