WHERE: 82 Wells Road, Beaumaris 3193. (Melway 86 G6).

WHEN: December 4, 5, 6 at 8PM.

TICKETS: Adults $18, Subscribers/Concessions/Children under 16/Groups of 10+ $15, Family Tickets (2A, 2C) $55.

Bookings: phone 9583 6896.

BBQ and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Doors open 8.00pm.
Quiz starts 9.00pm.

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

WHEN:
Friday 5 Dec at 8:00PM.
Saturday 6 Dec at 8:00PM.

WHERE: Mt Eliza Community Centre, Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza. (Melway 105 F1).

COST: Adults $26.50, Concession $24.50, Groups of 10+ $24.50. (Bookings: 1300 665 377.)

*Cabaret seating - BYO drinks and nibbles.*

Altered states of consciousness have long been a fundamental part of human culture, and as our world becomes increasingly fast-paced, alternative modes are becoming ever more significant and consciously explored.

The Entheogenesis Australis 2008 Symposium aims to address the issues relating to drug use/misuse from social, cultural and historical/traditional perspectives. EGA speakers will draw on the backgrounds of physiology, biology, pharmacology, psychology, neuroscience, anthropology, botany and more to provide a more realistic context to the role drugs and altered states play in the modern world.

If you've ever asked yourself "has the 'War on Drugs' created more problems than it tried to solve?" or "is MDMA really a more dangerous drug than alcohol?" - then EGA is for you.

Entheogenesis Australis is a collection of thinkers from all walks of life, we come together to share knowledge about sacred plants, chemical alchemy and states of consciousness.

We hope you will join us on this exploration.

WHERE: Copland Theatre, Economics and Commerce Building, Melbourne University. Victoria.

WHEN: Registration starts at 8:40am in the Foyer and the event will run till approximately 9pm.

TICKETS: Entheogenesis Australis is a presale only event with very limited ticketing, and over the last 3 years the event has sold out completely well in advance of the event commencement date.

General admission ticket will be $95 until sold out. There is also a student option available this year (see web page).

For more information about tickets see;
http://www.entheo.net/2008tickets_1st_round.htm
Tickets may also be purchased in person from the following locations:

Melbourne - The Happy Herb Shop
317 Smith Street Fitzroy Vic. Ph 03 9419 1277.

Melbourne - Hippy Heaven
1/186 Barkly Street St. Kilda Vic. Ph 03 9534 9361.

SoundLab will showcase emerging local talent and provide dynamic gigs and workshops that bring together industry professionals, gigging artists and emerging talent to share information and experience to support young artists in 'Getting Heard' in the music industry.

The 'Getting Heard' seminar and workshop will include a Q+A session to get all the inside information from industry professionals. Each panellist from the seminar will workshop the ideas with small groups of artists to unpack the opportunities on how to make an impact.

Getting Heard Seminar info.

Caroline Moore - Apollo Bay Music Festival Director, Live venue booking manager.
Jacinta Parsons – 3RRR programmer.
Julez - Hip Hop independent artist, producer and community arts practitioner.
Nina Rousseau – Writer and Live venue booking manager.

Bookings are essential for the 'Getting Heard' seminar and workshop places are limited. $10 / $5 members & concession.

Book now via email Deborah Hatton CERES Festivals and Events Co-ordinator deborah@ceres.org.au or call CERES Reception 03 9387 2609

The SoundLab project encourages young people to fully participate in their community and is supported by CERES, the Norman Anderson Young Peoples Trust and RRR.

CERES is a unique four-hectare park dedicated to community and environmental initiatives and is recognised as one of the most visited environmental centres in Australia.

Launch: Friday Dec 12.

Doors open: 7PM.
Support: 8PM.
Main: 9PM.

Jessica Paige Duo.
Broni.

Christmas Party: An end to this year's wonderful events!

We will be holding a Christmas themed Party - with Christmas food, and video(s), and as usual tea, coffee and hot food will be available at the kitchen.

WHERE: Living Legends International Home of Rest for Champion Horses, Oaklands Road, Greenvale Vic 3059. (Melway ref 177 J9).

WHEN: 9am – 4pm.

COST: Entry is free.

BERWICK AND DISTRICT FOLK CLUB in the OLD CHAPEL again.
Christmas time -- Wahoo!!! Come all ye faithful to the open stage – bring your voices to sing along, instruments to play or ears just to listen. Its always a great night of fun and entertainment.

Bookings a must for this event.

WHERE: Northcote Town Hall, 189 High Street - Rooftop.
(Melway Ref. 30 E9)

WHEN: 10Am to 5PM.

COST: Members enter for $8.00, non-members for the higher price of $11.00.

Christmas Party with the usual fun, games, auction, and scandals.

There will be a fantastic door prize available and you can join the club on the day.

WENDY RULE'S MIDSUMMER NIGHT FAERY PARTY.

"I've been putting on a Midsummer Faery Parties for the past few years in Melbourne, and they are always truly joyous affairs. We all dress up in our finery, and I start the night with a simple ritual, before launching into music and dancing. Kids under 13 are welcome for free, and there will be prizes for best costumes."

Originally a science fiction literary subgenre, Steampunk today is a retro-tech, craft-oriented lifestyling movement thriving on the internet, a "geek cool" aesthetic with an expanding presence in anime, computer-gaming and big-screen film. At its least it's a Golden Compass-y, Victorianeque art fashion with some current cachet. At its best it's the next big thing. EUCHRONIA (from the Greek "eu", meaning "good", and "chronos", "time") is Australia's first major Steampunk event.

EUCHRONIA recently announced the addition of skilled Stage Magician ALEX DE LA RAMBELJE and prominent local promoter DJ LOBOTOMY to the packed bill, where they join bands DANDELION WINE, THE TENTH STAGE and SFORZANDO, dance troupe SERPENTSKIRT, burlesque dancers ROSY RABBIT and THE TANQUERAYS and risqué acrobat TANK THE MUPPET. Other attractions include six DJs from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, Victorian-style portrait photography, and optional membership in THE ANTIPODEAN LEAGUE OF TEMPORAL VOYAGERS which includes a catered pre-opening event and horse-and-buggy ride. EUCHRONIA encourages sartorial extravagance, and its beautiful 19th Century venue will be lavishly decorated in appropriately anachronistic style.

EUCHRONIA is an 18+ event. Doors open at 9pm. Tickets are $55 until 15-December, online or at a range of ticketing agents throughout Melbourne. See www.euchronia.com for more information.

Highlights of the day will include:

• A marquee provided by Racing Victoria.
• Pony rides and kids' activities
  A Taste of Sunbury & Surrounds experience with wine and olive oil tastings.
• A traditional sausage sizzle
• Live entertainment: the Sunbury Divas will perform between 12:00 noon and 1:00pm.
• Access to the Woodlands Homestead and Heritage gardens, including with heritage tours of the homestead throughout the day.
• Regional Prize Draws featuring Hanging Rock and Goona Warra Winery and packages from Mantra Tullamarine Hotel, Rupertswood Mansion, Hilton Melbourne Airport and Top Tourist Parks Australia.
• Sales of the new range of Living Legends memorabilia, and the new Legends of Rock CD.

Living Legends encourages you to consider bringing a picnic basket for a full day of enjoyment in our beautiful gardens, joining in on activities with the legends, watching the nearby planes and local mob of kangaroos in a traditional Australian setting. We have plenty to celebrate with both our 2nd birthday and our new principle partner, Eliza Park.

Admission is free. For more information, please contact Dr Andrew Clarke on 0407 551 289 or email info@livinglegends.org.au.

Pasta and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Doors open 8.00pm.
Quiz starts 9.00pm.

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

Monday November 10th from 6pm.
Tuesday November 11th from 6pm.
Wednesday November 12th from 6pm.
Callbacks (if required): Wednesday November 12th from 8pm.

Auditions will be held in the Altona Primary School Hall, 109 Blyth Street Altona 3018 (i.e. not the theatre!). Directional signage will be posted at the venue.

Performances will be held between 13th and 28th March 2009. Rehearsals and performances will be held at the Altona Theatre.

Auditions are by appointment only - please phone Paul on 0413 676 850 to arrange an audition time (please leave a clear message on the answering machine with your full name, age and phone number).

They are appearing with Flamingo Crash and Sly Hats.

Cost: $10 at the door.

The Festival also offers interactive Action Hubs and forums with local and international speakers from film and television, to NGO's and human rights oganisations. These include comedian Corinne Grant, Emmy-award winning documentary filmmaker Lisa Jackson, Rev Tim Costello, actor/producer Martin Dingle Wall and writer/director Dee Mclachlan.

Sonic Attack: Music & Graphic Art.
Gordon Williams, guitarist in Hawkwind tribute band Sonic Attack joins artist Bob Walker in discussing the ultimate expressions of fannish joy. Hawkwind is SF's premier space-rock band. Bob Walker provided artwork for Hawkwind albums and his 96 page graphic novel Ledge of Darkness stars the band. See the artwork! Hear the music! See footage! Listen to stories of spacerock'n'roll!

A Clash with the past in the present at the Melbourne Medieval Fayre and Tourney MMFAT ® in 2008.

On the 15th and 16th November 2008, with the clash of Swords, the spatter of musket fire and the boom of cannon you will be transported back into the past at the 6th annual Melbourne Medieval Fayre and Tourney MMFAT® which will once again bring history to life for all ages at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick, Victoria.

This unique Victorian event, allows the public to be transported back into the past over different historical time periods from the Ancient Greeks and Romans, through the medieval period and into the Napoleonic wars of Europe and the American Civil war.

The Fayre features living history group members dressed in Historical costumes, with their historical tents, furniture and weapons. Even the Merchants and Traders that attend the event dress up in historical clothing. The performers that attend the event also showcase some interesting types of entertainment, coupled with the members of some of the Craft Guilds in Victoria demonstrating their old crafts, it makes for an interesting weekend.

The Melbourne Medieval Fayre and Tourney™ was started by the Ordo Equester Aurei Cervi (Inc.), an Order of Knights that is a benevolent and philanthropic group assisting Charities and people in need when it can, as a way of showcasing the Living history groups within Victoria to the public, while providing a reasonably priced event for the family to have time together, no matter their financial circumstances.

Each year, money raised by the Fayre goes towards supporting and sponsoring children at the Variety Club Childrens Christmas Party.

So if your looking for an inexpensive family day out with a difference, that assists Charities, allow yourself to be transported back into history and get up close and personal with medieval sword fighting, Knights on Horses, Wellington and Napoleons soldiers firing muskets, and the Yankies and Rebs of the American Civil war trying to blow each other up with their cannons in a fun and friendly way, then this could be the weekend event for you.

At the:

Berwick Old Cheese Factory
34 Homestead Road
Berwick, Victoria

FAYRE AND TOURNEY IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
From:
09:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday.
09:30 am - 4:00pm Sunday.

COST:
Prices for Public wishing to attend on either day are:
Adults and Children over 16: $10.
Children 7-15: $5.
Children under 6: Free.
Family Pass (2 Adults & 3 Children): $31.

***** SPECIAL OFFER *****

Receive a 15% Discount when you book and pay for your Tickets BEFORE 10th October 2008.
Adults and Children over 16: $8.50
Children 7-15: $4.25
Children under 6: Free.
Family Pass (2 Adults & 3 Children): $26.35

WHERE: Living Legends International Home of Rest for Champion Horses, Oaklands Road, Greenvale Vic 3059. (Melway ref 177 J9).

WHEN: 9am – 4pm.

COST: Entry is free.

flickers of movement
an evening of film and dance

Jonathan Sinatra
Steven Ball
Dirk de Bruyn
sue.k.
Blake Barratt
Paul Rodgers
Michael
Jo Vriesendorp
Jim Mant

Entrance off back laneway
658 Plenty Road
Preston, Vic.
Ph. 9005-7054.
(Catch the 86 Tram to Stop 52.)

8:30PM, Thursday, 20 November 2008.
Free Entry!

TRUDI CANAVAN at MSFC!
Author, artist, Aurealis Award winner and knitter Trudi Canavan is one of the biggest-selling writers in the HarperCollins stable of Australian fantasy writers. Her Black Magician trilogy has been translated into more than a dozen languages and continues to be regularly reprinted since first publication in 2001. Her second trilogy, the Age of the Five, continued that success. Now it's time for Trudi's latest novel, The Magician's Apprentice, which will be published in 2009.

Trudi's world first public reading from The Magician's Apprentice will be at the Melbourne Science Fiction Club this coming Friday night.

Yes, in what is rapidly becoming a tradition we have a truly fine writer meeting with us before embarking on her author tour. We're excited! And look forward to seeing you at St David's Uniting Church, Moreland Rd West Brunswick; the hall opens at 8.00pm Friday night and Trudi's event begins at 9.00pm.

Trudi's earlier works will be available for purchase and author signing.

Hot coffee available.

WHERE: 82 Wells Road, Beaumaris 3193. (Melway 86 G6).

WHEN: November 21, 22, 28, 29 and December 4, 5, 6 at 8PM.
November 30 at 5PM.

TICKETS: Adults $18, Subscribers/Concessions/Children under 16/Groups of 10+ $15, Family Tickets (2A, 2C) $55.

Bookings: phone 9583 6896.

WHEN:
Friday 21 & 28 Nov, 5 Dec at 8:00PM.
Saturday 22 & 29 Nov, 6 Dec at 8:00PM.
Sunday 30 Nov at 5:00PM.

WHERE: Mt Eliza Community Centre, Canadian Bay Rd., Mt Eliza. (Melway 105 F1).

COST: Adults $26.50, Concession $24.50, Groups of 10+ $24.50. (Bookings: 1300 665 377.)

*Cabaret seating - BYO drinks and nibbles.*

Commemorating Ian Gunn
This Friday 28 November we celebrate the life and works of Ian Gunn, variously (deep breath) artist, fan writer, FFANZ winner, editor of Stungunn, Hugo Award winner, raconteur, President of the Melbourne Science Fiction Club, apahacker, author's reader, founder of the Hitchhiker's Club of Victoria, comic, convention organiser, party host, publisher, memorabilia collector, calendar and trivia collator, mind reader and auctioneer extraordinaire, iguana aficionado and all-round nice guy.

Also a great friend of science fiction and of many people at the Melbourne
Science Fiction Club. To acknowledge ten years since Ian's passing, Jocko " James" Allen and KRin Pender-Gunn will be hosting this celebration of our friend Ian. It includes a showing of his award-winning art.

For those of you who were lucky enough to know Ian, he really needs no introduction. If you didn't meet him, do come along too to share in our celebration - you'd have been welcomed by Ian and you're welcome now.

A light supper will be served.
(To help this, if you're inclined and able, please bring a plate.)

All receipts, donations and kitchen takings from the night (eg for coffee, chocolate) will go to the Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria.

Items will be on sale for the Ian Gunn Memorial Fund.

"Devoted to holistic health and creating healthier more fulfilling lives, the Festival covers hundreds of products and services from personal development, stress release, nutrition and fitness through to organics, natural therapies, complementary medicine, vitamin supplements and spiritual healing."

Saturday, 29 November 2008.

Special international guest speaker: Dr Daniel Schugurensky on "Transformative learning and social change."

BREAKFAST: 9.00 till 11.30 am: $20, $12 concession. (Please RSVP for catering.)

OPEN DAY: 11.30 am till 4 pm, free!

WHERE: The Augustine Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.
Ph: 9819 2844, 9819 3502.

Downloadable PDF flyer (254KB).

Sunday 3O November 2008 at 2:30pm.
St Mark's Anglican Church, 250 George Street Fitzroy. (Melway Ref. 2C C9.)

Tickets $20 pre-purchased, $25 at the door. Phone Robert on 0400 999 248 or email manager@gloriana.com.au

THE 2008 AGE MELBOURNE FRINGE FESTIVAL continues.
Celebrate alternative arts, film & drama.

Panel: Host and author, Paul Collins taps into the imaginary minds of award-winning writers Sean Williams and Lucy Sussex as they
discuss their literary careers and what fuels their inspiration in the
world of speculative fiction.

Sean Williams is the author of 25 novels and numerous short stories for readers of all ages, including several set in the Doctor Who and Star Wars franchises, and a seven-book fantasy series set in Australian landscapes.

Lucy Sussex's fiction includes The Penguin Friend (1989), Deersnake (1990), Black Ice, The Revognase and The Scarlet Rider (1996). She has written three short story collections, My Lady Tongue, A Tour Guide in Utopia (2005) and Absolute Uncertainty (2006). She has also compiled three anthologies for younger readers, The Patternmaker, The Lottery (both 1994) and Shadow Alley (1996). She's Fantastical, an anthology of Australian women's non-realist fiction, was shortlisted for the 2005 World Fantasy Award.

Paul Collins is one of Australia's leading fantasy and science fiction authors and has published over 120 books in both the trade and education fields.

When: Friday 3 October, 6.30-8pm.

Cost: $20, Members $15/$12.

Pizza and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Doors open 8.00pm.
Quiz starts 9.00pm.

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

Over four days the Yarra River and Birrarung Marr will come to life with giant illuminated artworks depicting the dreams and aspirations of Australians. The centrepiece of this unique public art show, these artworks will be beautifully lit at night with individual soundtracks and stories.

With live music across the weekend from some of Australia’s best new and established bands, there’s something for Dreamers of every age!

Don't miss out this October as CLOC Musical Theatre presents the all tap dancing spectacular HOT SHOE SHUFFLE . Brimming with jazz, swing, and blues standards by such greats as George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Hoagy Carmichael, Fats Waller, Duke Ellington HOT SHOE SHUFFLE is a celebration of an era of music and dance that has been immortalised on stage and screen.

Come and share an unforgettable night of non stop entertainment as we present another original Australian musical with show stopping dance spectacles and recognisable classic hit songs.

PHONE BOOKINGS 1300 362 547
Book online at http://www.cloc.org.au/
Please note - Phone Bookings only accepted with Credit Card Payment.
Friday 3 October - Saturday 18 October 2008
TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE FOR ONLY SIX PERFORMANCES

Tuesday October 7 @ 8pm
Wednesday October 8 @ 8pm
Thursday October 9 @ 8pm

Tuesday October 14 @ 8pm
Wednesday October 15 @ 8pm
Thursday October 16 @ 8pm

Alexander Theatre,
Monash University, Clayton Campus.

Ticket Prices: Adults $42, Concession & Groups* $39, Child (16 & under) $28
* Group: 15 tickets or more (excluding children)
* Concession: Old Age Pensions, Seniors Cards, Students.

http://www.cloc.org.au/

Weekend Workshop: New York Times bestselling author Sean Williams is also the award-winning author of 25 novels and numerous short stories for readers of all ages, including several set in the Doctor Who and Star Wars franchises, and a seven-book fantasy series set in Australian landscapes.

Explore the secrets of his success - and the wonders of the universe - in a two-day intensive workshop for writers of original science fiction and fantasy. Expect the unexpected. BYO imagination!

Participants need to email work samples (up to 1000 words). Submissions by Monday September 15 to program@writers-centre.org

When: Saturday & Sunday, 4-5 October, 10am-4pm

Cost: $250, Members $190/$170

TO ENSURE YOUR PLACE PLEASE BOOK BY EARLY SEPTEMBER!

Performances by 2008 Award winner, flautist Jessica Jiang, and previous winner, pianist Kay Chim.

Date: Sunday 5 October 2008.
Time: 2.00pm.
Venue: Victorian College of the Arts, Federation Hall, Grant Street, Melbourne.
Cost: $25 includes light refreshments after the performance and award presentation.

The 'Quinntessential Collection' CD – a compilation of performances by previous Award winners - will be available.

A Fan in Melbourne: Fifty Years of Photos.
Helena Binns is our guest this Friday night at the MSFC. Ably
supported by husband Merv Binns, Helena as a keen photographer will
show pictures of the MSFC, its people, its conventions, as well as
other notable Melbourne sfnal events including the three Worldcons to date, starting with Aussiecon (#1) in 1975. The data projector and photos are working, Helena's prepared her talk, I think there might just be a promise of things to come from Merv's memoirs too, we'd love to see you there!

For more information visit: http://www.vicnet.net.au/~msfc/

WHERE: Living Legends International Home of Rest for Champion Horses, Oaklands Road, Greenvale Vic 3059. (Melway ref 177 J9).

WHEN: 9am – 4pm.

COST: Entry is free.

Author Narelle M. Harris at MSFC this Friday!
"... a reading from The Opposite of Life as well as talking about the book and writing in general. I usually open up to questions after about 20 minutes as that often generates discussion more centred on what people actually want to know. Hopefully this chest cold will have gone away by then and I'll have my voice back, or I will have to mime the whole thing."

Ditmar nominee, novelist, sf fan writer, actress and (maybe) mime Narelle Harris discusses her most recent novel the vampiric "The Opposite of Life" at the Melbourne Science Fiction Club this Friday night.

Narelle is entertaining, positive, articulate, and a great friend of fandom. Join us! And do send this invitation on to the writers and writers groups you know! (Non-members: gold coin fee).

We found "The Opposite of Life" to be an even finer novel than Narelle's earlier "Witch Faith."

Books for sale on the night, thanks to Slow Glass Books. Get them inscribed to your fiends and family before Christmas! Even though we're talking about vampires, Narelle promises to sign your books in real ink.

http://www.pulpfictionpress.com.au/theoppositeoflife/narelle.htm

Opens: Friday 17 October 2008 (from 6:30pm).
Exhibition Dates: 17 October - 5 November.

A hot-dog of a double banger showcase of original art from the U S of A.

Two amazingly deft painters with a taste of mid-century style and 50s pop culture; Keith Weesner and Derek Yaniger

KEITH WEESNER
http://www.outregallery.com/browse.aspx?Category=161

Keith Weesner is a rockin' hot-rod artist with a gentle touch with a paintbrush. Finely painted artworks with the kind of attention to detail that both art fans and car freaks can appreciate. Keith is known in hotrod circles, the lowbrow art scene as well as being a heralded illustrator in his own right.

A member of the Burbank Choppers, Keith's work reflects his obsession with cars and vintage pinup illustration. As an artist and hot rodder, he appears frequently in American, English, and Japanese car magazines, including Rodder's Journal, Automobile, Street Rodder, Hot Rod Deluxe, Custome Car, Hop Up (cover illustration), Car Styling, Cruisin', Burnout, Daytona, and Model Car, which featured an article on his Hot Wheels design proposals for Mattel. In addition, his artwork appeared in DUTCHED! as part of th evon Dutch exhibition at CSUN, and his dynamic hand-inked designs -- inspired by Rex Burnett's cutaways in Hot Rod Magazine -- can be found on numerous T-shirts, including many of those at So-Cal Speed Shop.

A versatile artist, for more than a decade Keith has been designing animation backgrounds for various studios, most notably at Warner Bros. for Bruce Timm's Batman, Superman, Batman Beyond, and Justice League. And he has also worked on Cartoon Network's The Power Puff Girls feature and Gary Baseman's Teacher's Pet for Disney.

DEREK YANIGER
http://www.outregallery.com/browse.aspx?Category=156

Derek Yaniger paints like its 1959. His crisp graphic style harks back to vintage men's magazines, tiki lounge aesthetics, bongo beat posters and BBQ cookbooks. And the added pleasure is the good humour and fun time understanding of his subject matter.

His painting method is equally ace. Crisp lines, perfect paintwork and on-the-money colours on beautiful wooden panels.

He's done some serious work for the likes of Marvel Comics and Cartoon Network. He's also know for his work for mags such as Atomic, Barracuda, and Car Kulture Deluxe.

"DEATH NOTE" - this Friday!

For more information visit: http://www.vicnet.net.au/~msfc/

Entry is free and there will be plenty of vegan stalls providing:

- fantastic food
- clothing
- footwear
- health products
- organic vegan wines
- cruelty free skincare and cosmetics
- pet care
- cleaning products and lots more.

There will be live bands; free samples and giveaways; raffle prize; workshops on Vegan cooking and raw food; talks on health and the environment; speed dating, and much more.

Bookings essential!

An insight into the Tamil struggle for self-determination in Sri Lanka.

With speakers: Associate Professor Damien Kingsbury from Deakin University and a member from the Tamil community.

6.30pm Thursday October 30
Copland Theatre, Economics and Commerce Building, University of Melbourne
(enter from gate 13 on royal parade, parkville. through the zoology building)

Entry by Donation.
Presented by Socialist Alliance, Tamil Eelam Women's Organisation and the Melbourne University Development Studies Program of the School of Philosophy, Anthropology and Social Inquiry.

For more information contact:
9639 8622.

FILM DISCUSSION NIGHT: Joss Whedon's "Dr Horrible."

Bring your own ukelele or tambourine. Free coffee all night to bagpipe wielders.

Sunday 31st of August @ the Palace George Cinemas (St Kilda).
7:00pm-Je Te Love, From Here to Maternity, Ring Around A Rosie, Between the Sheets, Sexy Crimes: Maid to Order, Punch, Harbord Horror, Channelling.

An after party at the Duskbar, just a 3 min walk away follows. DJ Kempy will entertain from 8:30pm.

Monday 1st of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Land of Love, Penny, Beautiful.
9:00pm-The Widower, Morning Theft.

Tuesday 2nd of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Lap of Death, With a Seed Between the Teeth, The Broken Circle.
9:00pm-Night Birds, The Devil's Muse.

Wednesday 3rd of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Short films by Anna Brownfield and Kim Miles.
9:00pm-Forbidden Territory, Faith Matters, Give Piece of Ass a Chance, Scenes from the Sex Struggles...
11:00PM-Xana and Dax, Ashley and Kisha.

Thursday 4th of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Tokyo Bound, Moonfall
9:00pm-The Coconut, Perfekt, The Hotel Edwards.

Friday 5th of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Coupling, In the Moment
9:00pm-Telios, Working Week, The Captives.

Saturday 6th of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-The Cure, Hunting.
9:00pm-Insect, Getting lucky, Dreams for Life.

Sunday 7th of September @ the Palace George Cinemas (St Kilda).
7:00pm-The Girl in the Moon, Flesh and Blood.

We then present the awards for Best Film, Best International Film, Best Short, Best International Short, Best Male Actor and Best Female Actor.

An after party at the Duskbar, just a 3 min walk away follows. DJ Kempy will entertain from 8:30pm.

Films selected for the 'round world' tour will be announced on the closing night of the festival along with the award winners.

You can NOW secure your tickets to the Melbourne opening and/or closing nights by a secure credit card transaction at:
http://www.stickytickets/sexyfilmfest

In 1974, he encountered Miss Mary Shepherd, a cantankerous old eccentric, who lived in her decrepit and smelly Bedford van in his street in Camden Town. He eventually allowed her to briefly park her van in his front garden - except that what he had intended as a short stay turned into one of 15 years. This is a play shot through with rueful sadness, but generously packed with jokes. A bracing mix of wit, remorse and stimulating debate.

LOCATION: 3 Rose Street,
Upper Ferntree Gully,
Victoria 3156.

Pi O represented Australia at the International Poetry Festival in Colombia 1997, the Weltklang Festival in Berlin 2003 and in Bangkok 2004 and 2005. Poet in Residence at the University of Wollongong in 2004, he has made numerous appearances on ABC Radio National, local community stations, SBS and ABC TV. Pi O has been involved in the Anarchist movement in Australia since 1970.

Poet jeltje and Unamunos Quorum have been collaborating on themes of work, alienation and displacement since the mid-nineties. In 2006 jeltje performed with Sjaak de Jong, the convenor of Unamunos Quorum, at the polypoetry festival krikri in Ghent, Belgium. They produced/performed together, with UQ, in La Mama Poetica: Voiceprints, celebrating La Mama's 40th anniversary for the Melbourne International Arts Festival. jeltje is currently convening La Mama Poetica.

'ink: celebrating writers' is a partnership between Stonnington Libraries and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.

Entry $5 - includes a drink.

Doors open at 7pm.

Council Chambers,
Prahran Town Hall,
Cnr Chapel and Greville Streets,
Prahran 3181.

Presented by Arts Access Victoria, THE OTHER FILM FESTIVAL is a kaleidoscopic biennial event of ground-breaking short films, documentaries and animations from all corners of the globe including Germany, Netherlands, Russia, Greece, UK, USA, France Iran, Denmark, Canada, Hungary and, of course, Australia.

Now in its third year, THE OTHER FILM FESTIVAL promotes the passionate exchange of ideas by offering a gloriously diverse line-up of films that explore the many facets of disability with humor, verve and drama, and invites interaction with audience members via a range of guest speakers and lively forums.

The 2008 line-up includes more than 35 films to be shown over 20 sessions, in an environment that promotes accessibility for every audience member. Films will be captioned and audio described and all sessions and forums will be sign interpreted.

SEPTEMBER 4-20.
Thursdays to Saturdays at 8PM.
Matinee Sunday 14th at 2PM.

WHERE: Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Road, Research.

BOOKINGS: Ph. 9437 1574 or Email:
ticketbox@elthamlittletheatre.com.au

TICKETS: $20 Adults/$16 Concession.
http://www.elthamlittletheatre.org.au/

Performances Remaining:
Thursday 4 September at 8:00 pm.
Friday 5 September at 8:00 pm.
Saturday 6 September at 5:00 pm.
Sunday 7 September at 2:00 pm.
Friday 12 September at 8:00 pm.
Saturday 13 September at 2:00 pm. (matinee) and 8:00 pm.

Prices:
Adults $18.
Family (2 adults & 2 children 16 and under) $55.
All other tickets (members, children, concessions, groups) $15.
Subscribers $15.
NOTE:
-"Concessions" apply for students 17 years and older,
pensioners and healthcare cardholders.
- Groups applies to bookings for 10 or more tickets.
- Members please present membership cards to obtain discount.

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Casseroles - delicious slow-cooked food!

Doors open 8.00pm.
Quiz starts 9.00pm.

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

WHERE: The Brunswick Hotel, 140 Sydney Road.

WHEN: 8:30PM until 9:30PM.

COST: Free!

Nick Hilligoss L'animateur.
Award-winning ABC Studios stop-motion animator Nick Hilligoss drops in for a fireside chat. Your chance to meet and see the work of one of Australia's most respected animators.

WHERE: Living Legends International Home of Rest for Champion Horses, Oaklands Road, Greenvale Vic 3059. (Melway ref 177 J9).

WHEN: 9am – 4pm.

COST: Entry is free.

Indulge all your senses re-living a lavish evening of glamour and glitz in this beautiful historic homestead that once was a social hub of Melbourne in the early Victorian era, where it played host to guests including Burke and Wills.

Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine (Hanging Rock Winery) and canapés on arrival, followed by an insight into "Historic Woodlands and The History of Australian Thoroughbred Racing" with Andrew Lemon. A Cocktail Dinner Experience (Distinctively Delicious) will follow in the atmospheric charm of the historic Woodlands Homestead.

The Woodlands Historic Homestead was a hive of social events in the early pioneering years of Melbourne and Victoria. Adorn yourself in your finest to enjoy the most exclusive event on the racing calendar with the Champions of the Turf.

There is local accommodation available at Rupertswood Mansion or the Hilton at the Airport to complement your Heritage Experience.

Historian Dr Andrew Lemon's History of Australian Thoroughbred Racing, volume III: In Our Time will be hot off the presses. This is a unique chance to hear about the special place that Living Legends has in the story of Australian racing.

Bookings are strictly limited to 40 people so book early to avoid disappointment. Bookings close on 12 September 2008.

For enquiries & bookings please contact Adrienne Robertson on 0404 334 844 or Andrew Clarke on 040 755 1289 or email info@livinglegends.org.au.

One of the events that Coolgrass became famous for was the Bluegrass and Old Timey Convention in Harrietville, Vic. In November each year, Coolgrass began to take a less serious look at the bluegrass genre by dressing up in weird and wacky outfits (including some intriguing hats) and tackling a plethora of different styles of music, not just your average bluegrass (somewhat to the disgust of the "Bluegrass Police"). Much of Coolgrass' repertoire came from working up many of these shows, and can be heard at any Coolgrass gig you go to.

WHERE: The Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick, 3806.

COST: Guests $10.00 -- Members & Spot Acts $7.00.

DOORS OPEN: 7.30pm

Contact: Phone: (03) 9702 1223 or Email: badfolk@optusnet.com.au

This is another great night of music. Don't miss!

"Pushing Daisies."
From the makers of "Wonderfalls", "Pushing Daisies" is a forensic fairy tale about a pie-maker who has the power to bring the dead back to life. The show premiered in the United States on October 3, 2007. Even though only nine episodes have been broadcast, "Pushing Daisies" has been nominated for twelve Emmy awards, including Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Lee Pace), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy series (Kristin Chenoweth), Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series (Bryan Fuller), and Outstanding Direction of a Comedy Series (Barry Sonnenfeld).

Betterer or worserer than Wonderfalls and Dead Like Me?

Make up your mind this Friday (with coffee).

Feasting. Music. Workshops. Kid's space. Stalls. May Pole. Ceremony. Roving Minstrals.

Expressive dress!

St. Andrews Market Ground.
Sunday September 21/

3-9pm. $15/$12. Kids free!

Contact ange to get involved:
0425 748 895.

THE 2008 AGE MELBOURNE FRINGE FESTIVAL.
Celebrate alternative arts, film & drama.

Film Night: In the Shadow of the Moon.
Remember when the whole world looked up?

Between 1968 and 1972 nine American spacecraft voyaged to the moon and twelve men walked upon its surface - the only human beings to have stood on another world.

In the Shadow of the Moon brings together the surviving members from every single Apollo mission and allows them to tell their story in their own words.

Includes archive footage never publicly released before. Narrated by Ron Howard. Keeps winning 4 and 5 star ratings.

Madman Entertainment have kindly sent us this newly-released DVD for comment and review. Come along and enjoy it at the MSFC this Friday!

MANIFEST 2008
Melbourne Anime Festival.
3 days of: Anime Screenings, Panel Discussions, Cosplay, Traders, Video Games, Iron AMVs, Competitions, Art, Karaoke, Japanese Cultural Events, Classes.

WHERE: Melbourne University.
MEMBERSHIP COSTS:

Until September 7th:

On the day prices:

"We love to harmonise :)

"After us is a fantastic band - Jordan Millar & the Question - they are coming down from Sydney for a one-off performance. They were winners of the Perisher Blue 'Launch Your Band' competition last year as well as the Coca Cola Live & Local Unsigned Band Competition and were in the top 5 in the 2007 MusicOz competition. If you like the Dave Matthews Band, Jimi Hendrix, Ben Harper and John Mayer, you should love this band!

It will finish by 11 p.m. There are comfy chairs and tables to relax while you listen. Simple food available… (chips, bruschetta etc). Really nice cocktails/mocktails.
It is like going to New York for $13 and seeing 2 fantastic original Aussie music acts there…but without the jet lag :).

Jess x

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Quiz and pancakes (savoury, gluten free, and sweet
pancakes for dessert).

Why pancakes? In June/July we had 3 food events in 5 weeks, and as well as being straightforward everybody likes pancakes!

Doors open 8.00pm.
Quiz starts 9.00pm.

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

WHERE: East Brunswick Club,
280 Lygon St, East Brunswick, 3057.

WHEN: From 8.30 pm.

COST: $16 (prebooked)+bf, $20 at the door, if still available.

Tickets available from The East Box Office, on 9388 9794 or online

"It's becoming a bit of a tradition for me, these seasonal celebrations at the lovely East Brunswick Club. Imbolc celebrates the first kiss of Spring, and the creative fire of the Goddess Bridget. We'll do a ritual together (and those of you who attended my last Midsummer event here will know to expect a night of Magic and Mystery), and of course there will be music music music. Dress in your gorgeous finery and celebrate the fire within."

http://wendyrule.com/

Climate Code Red author, David Spratt and Canberra-based poet and editor Mark O'Connor, expose the climate change emergency that faces Australia and explain how to avoid it. David is a climate-policy analyst and co-founder of Carbon Equity, a climate change education and advocacy organisation, based in Melbourne.

Mark is one of Australia’s handful of professional poets but regularly steals time from poetry for environmental activism. He has published 16 books of verse, and is the editor of Oxford University Press' Two Centuries of Australian Poetry. In 1999 he was the Australian National University's H C Coombs Fellow, and thereafter a Visiting Scholar in Archaeology and Natural History.

'ink: celebrating writers' is a partnership between Stonnington Libraries and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.

Entry $5 - includes a drink.

Doors open at 7pm.

Council Chambers,
Prahran Town Hall,
Cnr Chapel and Greville Streets,
Prahran 3181.

This is a rare public performance with jazz guitar genius Glenn Cannon - he has won many awards and played internationally. It is going to be lovely - 2 sets from 8 p.m.

ALISON GOODMAN at MSFC!
A longer message than usual because this is something special. Please pass this news on to friends and especially to writer friends and anyone who likes well-written fantasy novels. The event is open to the public (gold coin).

Alison Goodman's book "The Two Pearls of Wisdom" is officially launched next week, and then Alison spends August and September doing promo around Australia. But we are first. Alison will be talking about her book this Friday at the MSFC, 9.00pm start. Copies will be available for sale and author signing.

The Australian edition is the true first edition. The US edition, to be published in December, has just had its hardback print run expanded to 100,000 copies. German translation rights have sold for a six-figure sum. UK publication will be in two liveries, one for the adult audience and one for the teenage market, much like the Harry Potter novels.

Alison will be talking about the different marketing campaigns and how The Two Pearls of Wisdom is being sold. A lecturer in creative writing at tertiary level, Alison has also workshopped and deconstructed the first two pages of the novel to reveal the techniques and methods used to make the book instantly appealing. In her words, "this is the stuff that works to draw in the reader, but that many writers don't do." The Two Pearls of Wisdom was sold from a synopsis. The synopsis will be discussed and copies handed out.

The Two Pearls of Wisdom is a fantasy novel set in Ancient China and tells of a female apprentice magician who bonds with a dragon. It's not a trilogy, there are just two books in this duology and no plans for any more. Character names do not have apostrophes. The prose is neither bloated nor intrusive, and I'd tell you more except my wife took the book off me, read it to 5.00am and then passed it on to someone else with a 'read this'.

Alison Goodman won the Aurealis Award in 1998 for her novel Singing the Dogstar Blues ("an exhilarating novel that escapes the limitation of genre" - Bruce Gillespie, Australian Book Review). She has been shortlisted for the Victorian Premier's Literary Award. The Two Pearls of Wisdom has federal Arts Council and Arts Victoria funding.

This is a great opportunity to see the writer's craft from the inside, and to discover a fantasy book that is among the best published in Australia this year.

Hollywood glamour icon and cult actress JANE BADLER returns to the MIFF FESTIVAL LOUNGE on SATURDAY 9TH AUGUST to perform tracks from her critically acclaimed new release THE DEVIL HAS MY DOUBLE.

Performing on stage with Melbourne band SIR, the pairing promises to be an evening of fame, sex and solitude, set to a sweeping soundtrack of cold soul and
passionate synthetics.

With recent sell-out Melbourne shows, this rare free-entry performance is not to be missed.

Thursday, August 14 2008 @ 7:30pm.
Glitch Bar and Cinema,
318 St. Georges Road
North Fitzroy.

For more info, contact: spectralcinema@optusnet.com.au

Films This Month:

• The Mermaid (1904) - George Melies.
• The Furies (1934) - Slavko Vorkapich.
• Fireworks (1947) - Kenneth Anger.
• The Life and Death of 9413: A Hollywood Extra (1927) - Robert Florey and Slavko Vorkapich.
• "By a Waterfall" from Footlight Parade (1933) - Busby Berkeley.

INTERMISSION

• Puce Moment (1949) - Kenneth Anger.
• Hold Me While I'm Naked (1966) - George Kuchar.
• That's the Law (2004) - Rad Rudd.
• You Killed Me First (1985) - Richard Kern.
• Irony (2004) - Shane Lyons.
• Invocation of My Demon Brother (1969) - Kenneth Anger.
• No Vacancy (2004) - Melanie el Mir.

Film Discussion Night: Star Wreck
Star Wreck: In the Pirkinning "way funnier than Spaceballs"- poster on Slashdot.

"An epic film about the emperor of the world in the far reaches of the galaxy." The hero is Captain Pirk.

Star Wreck is a feature-length science fiction parody made in Finland. "It took seven years to make, but in the end we had a film with amazing special effects, action and lots of dark humour."

"Star Wars meets Babylon 5"

WHERE: Princes Hill Community Centre (rear 270 MacPherson Street, North Carlton) from 7:30PM.

DONATION: $5-$10.

In 1974, he encountered Miss Mary Shepherd, a cantankerous old eccentric, who lived in her decrepit and smelly Bedford van in his street in Camden Town. He eventually allowed her to briefly park her van in his front garden - except that what he had intended as a short stay turned into one of 15 years. This is a play shot through with rueful sadness, but generously packed with jokes. A bracing mix of wit, remorse and stimulating debate.

LOCATION: 3 Rose Street,
Upper Ferntree Gully,
Victoria 3156.

2008 Hugo Awards & WorldCon 2010
Rose Mitchell, Perry Middlemiss and Julian Warner, just returned from the Denvention WorldCon, will tell us whether or not there's a World SF Convention in Melbourne in 2010.

Film Discusstion Night: Tin Man Date.
A re-imagining of L. Frank Baum's classic The Wizard of Oz by the SciFi Channel. Nine Emmy Award nominations!. Dorothy Gale, a.k.a. DG, is all grown up and bored. She mopes around, works as a waitress, and goes to school part time. Before she knows it she's back in OZ (a.k.a. Outer Zone) on the run from the evil sorceress Azkadellia and her storm troopers and clumsy bats. Along the way she falls in with some strange characters....

Performances:
Friday 29 August at 8:00 pm.
Saturday 30 August at 5:00 pm.
Sunday 31 August at 2:00 pm.
Thursday 4 September at 8:00 pm.
Friday 5 September at 8:00 pm.
Saturday 6 September at 5:00 pm.
Sunday 7 September at 2:00 pm.
Friday 12 September at 8:00 pm.
Saturday 13 September at 2:00 pm. (matinee) and 8:00 pm.

Prices:
Adults $18.
Family (2 adults & 2 children 16 and under) $55.
All other tickets (members, children, concessions, groups) $15.
Subscribers $15.
NOTE:
-"Concessions" apply for students 17 years and older,
pensioners and healthcare cardholders.
- Groups applies to bookings for 10 or more tickets.
- Members please present membership cards to obtain discount.

A celebration of all things yoga; Yoga Expo is a great community day out with dynamic presentations, free classes with Australia's top yogis, inspirational music, free therapies, delicious organic foods, close to 100 exhibitors and a Kirtan concert finale to wrap up the day.

Inspired to give people the chance to explore and connect with the Australian yoga community, we look forward to seeing you at Yoga Expo and invite you to embrace our theme for 2008 of
"Come as one, bring two"
Share happiness. Introduce your friends to yoga.

WHERE: Town Square Hocker, Melbourne Showgrounds (Entrance via Langs Road), Flemington.

WHEN: 9AM - 5PM.

COST: Online Special Price : $16.00
Door sale: $19.00.

Downloadable PDF flyer (125KB).

Sunday 31 August 2008 at 2:30pm.
St Mark's Anglican Church, 250 George Street Fitzroy. (Melway Ref. 2C C9.)

Tickets $20 pre-purchased, $25 at the door. Phone Robert on 0400 999 248 or email manager@gloriana.com.au

Josquin Desprez (c1450-1521) Missa L’homme armé sexti toni.
Arvo Pärt (1935) Solfeggio.
György Ligeti (1923-2006) Lux aeterna.
Einojuhani Rautavaara (1928) Die erste Elegie.
Sven-David Sandström (1942) Agnus Dei.
Peteris Vasks (1943) Pater noster.

"You could successfully put up the Gloriana voices against any similar group in the country" - The Age.

Films. dates and ticketing.

Sunday 31st of August @ the Palace George Cinemas (St Kilda).
7:00pm-Je Te Love, From Here to Maternity, Ring Around A Rosie, Between the Sheets, Sexy Crimes: Maid to Order, Punch, Harbord Horror, Channelling.

An after party at the Duskbar, just a 3 min walk away follows. DJ Kempy will entertain from 8:30pm.

Monday 1st of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Land of Love, Penny, Beautiful.
9:00pm-The Widower, Morning Theft.

Tuesday 2nd of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Lap of Death, With a Seed Between the Teeth, The Broken Circle.
9:00pm-Night Birds, The Devil's Muse.

Wednesday 3rd of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Short films by Anna Brownfield and Kim Miles.
9:00pm-Forbidden Territory, Faith Matters, Give Piece of Ass a Chance, Scenes from the Sex Struggles...
11:00PM-Xana and Dax, Ashley and Kisha.

Thursday 4th of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Tokyo Bound, Moonfall
9:00pm-The Coconut, Perfekt, The Hotel Edwards.

Friday 5th of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-Coupling, In the Moment
9:00pm-Telios, Working Week, The Captives.

Saturday 6th of September @ Glitch Bar and Cinema (Fitzroy).
7:00pm-The Cure, Hunting.
9:00pm-Insect, Getting lucky, Dreams for Life.

Sunday 7th of September @ the Palace George Cinemas (St Kilda).
7:00pm-The Girl in the Moon, Flesh and Blood.

We then present the awards for Best Film, Best International Film, Best Short, Best International Short, Best Male Actor and Best Female Actor.

An after party at the Duskbar, just a 3 min walk away follows. DJ Kempy will entertain from 8:30pm.

Films selected for the 'round world' tour will be announced on the closing night of the festival along with the award winners.

You can NOW secure your tickets to the Melbourne opening and/or closing nights by a secure credit card transaction at:
http://www.stickytickets/sexyfilmfest

Farming and food production have strong connections to us all. Join us on a journey through three film nights as we explore some of the darker sides of our relationship with food. Issues ranging from industrial factory farming and genetically engineering of food to the loss of food sovereignty and threat to food security will be addressed. We’ll have a short discussion of some of the problems raised and pose solutions and actions we can all take.

The short documentary on Melbourne's 'Food not Bombs' (6 min) will be followed by a documentary titled 'We feed the world' (95 min - subtitles) which Desert consists of the spoof Matrix animation titled ‘Meatrix’ (5 min) where Moothius and Leo discover the impacts of factory farming.

WHERE: Loop Bar, 23 Meyers Place, Melbourne CBD near Spring and Bourke Streets.

WHEN: From 6:30PM.

Free Entry.

Drinks and food available from the bar.

Seating is limited and RSVP is preferred.

Dorothy Porter has published thirteen books: six collections of poetry, two novels and five verse novels. Her most recent verse novel is EL DORADO - a noir crime thriller set in Melbourne. Her best-selling crime thriller in verse THE MONKEY'S MASK has been adapted for the stage, radio, and released internationally as a film. Dorothy has read all over the world, from London to Medellin. She was awarded the FAW Christopher Brennan Medal for Poetry in 2002. Dorothy has also written two opera libretti and a double CD, BEFORE TIME COULD CHANGE US. In 2006 Dorothy Porter edited THE BEST AUSTRALIAN POEMS.

Andrea Goldsmith trained intially as a speech pathologist and worked for many years with children with cerebral palsy and severe communication impairments. Her novels include Gracious Living and The Prosperous Thief, (short-listed for the Miles Franklin award.) Andrea's new novel is Reunion. A story of friendship, love, intellectual strivings and untimely death, it will be published by 4th Estate next year. Andrea's essays have been published widely. Andrea has taught creative writing throughout Australia, and mentors new writers.

'ink: celebrating writers' is a partnership between Stonnington Libraries and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.

Entry $5 - includes a drink.

Doors open at 7pm.

Council Chambers,
Prahran Town Hall,
Cnr Chapel and Greville Streets,
Prahran 3181.

Written by Derek Benfield,
Directed by Brian Uniacke.

Two couples, an isolated hotel, a romantic weekend away - what could go wrong? Plenty! Little do they know that each couple is married to the respective partner! Throw in a porter who is running the hotel while his sister is on holiday who finds himself caught up in the lies and deception as these couples find out the other is in the same building. A very funny comedy, not to be missed.

WHERE: Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd Beaumaris 3193. (Melway 86 G6.)

WHEN: Ensemble rehearsed performances Friday July 4th, Saturday July 5th at 8pm.

COST: Prices for July 4th and 5th are adults $18, all others $15.

Bookings 9583 6896 or email beaumaristheatre@optusnet.com.au

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

American Food.

We have a great pleasure in serving up hot dogs, french fries & salad, followed by apple pie and ice cream.

Doors open 8.00pm.
Quiz starts 9.00pm.

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

DIAMOND VALLEY SINGERS presents "KISMET."

Performances are on Friday July 4th (8 p.m.), Saturday July 5th (2 p.m.), Sunday July 6th (2 p.m.), Wednesday July 9th (8 p.m.), Friday July 11th (8 p.m.) and Saturday July 12th (2 p.m. and 8 p.m.).

Opening night (Friday July 4th) is sold out. Tickets are still available for all other performances.

Ticket prices are $25 adults, $20 concession and $60 family, with a low price of $18 for large groups.

You can obtain tickets by ringing Callum (9444 0537), sending an email or by printing out a booking form and posting it to the address on the form after filling it out.

Opens: Thursday 3 July 2008 (from 6:30pm).
Exhibition Dates: 4 July - 23 July.

Angelique Houtkamp is an internationally renowned artist with her roots in tattoo culture. Her new works evoke a world of sweet-hearts, broken-hearts and wearing your heart on your sleeve.

Love and darkness are always present in an uneasy duality throughout Angelique's new body of work for Outré Gallery; "Till Death Do Us Part". Delicate sorrow, loving looks and painful nostalgia.

This exhibition comes on the tail of the release of her recent monograph "Tattoo Darling" published by Outré Gallery to an international crowd of avid fans.

"The last year I have been spending more time on painting than tattooing, but if I haven't tattooed for a while I really start to miss it. The difference between them is that tattooing comes with so much responsibilities, like putting a mark on somebody for life and it has to be perfect. Opposed to painting, I can just do my own thing and if nobody likes it that's cool too." - Angelique Houtkamp 2007.

Angelique evokes tattoo culture in her art through a shared discursive language. The style of bold line work and strong symbolic combinations. All the while implying elusive stories of time, loss, love, death, beauty and pain. Expect dreamy dollfaces, classic tattoo imagery, twisted iconography and some unexpected magic out of the Angelique bag in the form of some technical sidestepping.

ALTONA CITY THEATRE presents "CATS."

Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Based on "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats" by T.S. Eliot

By arrangement with ORiGiN Theatrical
on behalf of The Really Useful Group Limited

Cats Logo TM © 1981 The Really Useful Group Limited.

When CATS first hit the theatre world the response was amazing. No human characters, only CATS. No dialogue, only singing. Dancing from start to finish. Integration of lighting into the overture and the music throughout the show. A musical that was not plot driven. A show that used famous poetry as the only lyrics. An indistinct line between audience and cast that allowed a breakthrough of the fourth wall and then, heaven forbid, direct interaction with the audience. Audiences were suspicious because of the dramatic change. But as more and more people shared the experience, CATS took the world by storm. Do not miss this chance to experience the phenomenon that is CATS.

PERFORMANCES:

• Friday, 4th July, 8pm - Gala Opening ($41 adult / $36 conc. / $144 family.)
• Saturday, 5th July, 8pm.
• Sunday, 6th July, 5pm.
• Thursday, 10th July, 8pm.
• Friday, 11th July, 8pm.
• Saturday, 12th July, 2pm.
• Saturday, 12th July, 8pm.
• Sunday, 13th July, 5pm.
• Thursday, 17th July, 8pm.
• Friday, 18th July, 8pm.
• Saturday, 19th July, 8pm.
• Sunday, 20th July, 2pm.
• Thursday, 24th July, 8pm.
• Friday, 25th July, 8pm.
• Saturday, 26th July, 8pm.

Performances are held at the Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona.

Show your tickets at Pier Lounge for dinner before a performance and receive a 10% discount off your meal!

TICKET PRICES:
Adults: $35
Concession: $30
Family (2 adults, 2 conc.): $120
$30 each for groups of 10+
(unless otherwise specified)

Click here to order tickets online or phone 0425 705 550 or download and mail the Booking Form.

Speaker: Dr. Ani Wierenga.
Acclaimed Scholar and Intrepid Explorer

Topic: Social Well-being, The Learning from Bhutan.

The Mission: conduct a study in Bhutan to gauge the effectiveness of current youth programs and to produce a framework for the Government's youth policy.

The Problem: How can Bhutan survive the modernisation process including the impact of television and higher education of the young people without losing the cultural values that have traditionally made it unique?

"I think we can learn a lot through our encounters with another culture. Here is a country which has shunned the notion of Gross National Product in order to focus on Gross National Happiness – a vision which guides Bhutan's modernisation."

Join us to hear the results of this fascinating research.

9am Breakfast.

Booking: Ph 9819 3239 or 9819 3502
Cost: $20 or $12 concession.
Venue: Augustine Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.

For those of you who caught part one in 2007, here comes part two of "Collectables and Collecting."

Last year we covered autographs and how to frame autographs, lithographs and posters.

We also briefly covered action figures and their conditions.

Now we cover other topics like:

• Is it collectable just because the packet says so?
• Prop replicas: fan created and authorised replicas.
• Onscreen used props, hero props or just general background "you've seen one you've seen them all" props.
• How to get those rare, hard to get items, as well as how to care for them, display them, and what should be locked up in a safe!

So, what's it all about? In 2005, Universal released a movie called Serenity directed by Joss Whedon. The movie was based on the fan favourite TV show called "Firefly" which was created by Whedon. "Firefly" was cancelled by the Fox Network after screening only 10 episodes in the US. However, the complete series (14 episodes) were released as a DVD box set & sold in such numbers that fans around the world (known as "Browncoats" after the heroes of the show) and Joss were able to convince Universal to make a movie based on the show. In 2006, Browncoats around the world (including myself) came together to organise charity screenings of Serenity as a "Thank You" to Joss and Universal for making the movie and to raise funds and awareness for Joss' chosen charity, Equality Now.

Equality Now was founded in 1992 to work for the protection and promotion of the human rights of women around the world. Working with national human rights organizations and individual activists, Equality Now documents violence and discrimination against women and mobilizes international action to support their efforts to stop these human rights abuses.

Over the past 2 years, Can't Stop The Serenity has raised over US$160000 for Equality Now. This year, our global target is US$150,000 from screenings in 55 cities around the world.

Farming and food production have strong connections to us all. Join us on a journey through three film nights as we explore some of the darker sides of our relationship with food. Issues ranging from industrial factory farming and genetically engineering of food to the loss of food sovereignty and threat to food security will be addressed. We’ll have a short discussion of some of the problems raised and pose solutions and actions we can all take.

The feature documentary 'Lost in Palm Oil' (63 min) investigates the negative impacts that oil palm plantations have on forests, climate change, water pollution, biodiversity, with a focus on Indigenous communities in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. How does this relate to food? Palm oil shows us that food issues, forests, people, culture and animals are interconnected. Palm Oil is used in 1 in 10 supermarket products, yet there no requirement for it to be labelled. Guest speaker Jessica McKelson from the Melbourne Zoo Orangutan Sanctuary will present an uplifting slide show of her recent trip to Nyaru Menteng Gunung Leseur National Park in Indonesia where she saw the impacts of Palm Oil on the Orangutan population first hand. The wild organutan population is heading towards extinction, but the rescues and release work witnessed by Jess gives us hope that there is a future for them.

WHERE: Loop Bar, 23 Meyers Place, Melbourne CBD near Spring and Bourke Streets.

WHEN: From 6:30PM.

Free Entry.

Drinks and food available from the bar.

Seating is limited and RSVP is preferred.

*Meet us at 7pm in the foyer to buy tickets for the 7.30pm screening.*

MELBOURNE SCIENCE FICTION CLUB meet at St. David's United Church Hall, 74 Melville Road, Brunswick West from 8PM.

Tom Jones is rich, ripe and rowdy. Tom, a man much beset by women and Squire Allworthy's adopted son, falls victim to the charms of one rustic wench after another, until at last the Squire grows tired of the trouble he causes and sends him off to cause it elsewhere. Then Tom becomes entangled with three women at once - one of whom he truly loves.

WHEN:
Friday 11 & 18 July at 8:00PM.
Saturday 12 & 19 July at 8:00PM.
Sunday 13 July at 2:00PM.

WHERE: George Jenkins Theatre, Monash University, McMahons Rd., Frankston. (Melway: 102 F4 Map 476 Building A.)

COST: Adults $26.50, Concession $24.50, Groups of 10+ $24.50. (Bookings: Phone 9905 1111 or ONLINE at http://www.monash.edu/monart/)

Friday & Saturdays 11 - 20 July at 8pm.
Sunday Matinees 13th & 20th July at 2pm.

Adults: $20.
Concession: $16.
Family: $65.

Book now: 9437 1574.
Credit card facilities over the phone now available!
(Not on night at ticketbox)

Labyrinth Masquerade is on again! Bigger, brighter and more exciting!

Held this year in the grand and glorious Regal Ballroom, Labyrinth Masquerade 2008 is swiftly shaping into a swirling splendour of mad merriness and fabulous frivolity, a glittering night realm where baronesses dance with beasties, fairies play with princes and the world is full of the colourful cornucopia of creatures that live in our unlimited imagination.

Saturday, 12 July 2008.
The Regal Ballroom
218 High St Northcote, Melbourne.
7pm - 2am.

Check out the new website for full details:

http://www.guildofthegoldenowl.com/

ART & FASHION

Labyrinth Masquerade 2008 features a Fantasy Fashion Show and Fantasy Art Competition. We're now looking for Artists for the Art Exhibition/Competition, and Fashion Designers, Hair and Make-up Artists, and Models for the Fashion Show.

Fashion entries can include costumes, wigs, hats, body art, tattoos, and anything weird and outlandish, decadent and surreal that fits a fantasy theme. Entry is FREE and all Designers and their models receive complimentary tickets to the event. Check the Fantasy Fashion Show attachment for details.

Art Competition entries can be in any medium, in any fantasy-related theme. This is a chance for your work to be shown and potentially sold to a large and appreciative audience. Entry is FREE and all exhibitors receive complimentary tickets to the event. All artworks are automatically entered in the competition for the Crystal Ball and Sceptre of the Goblin King Awards. Check the Fantasy Art Competition attachment for details.

TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

Regular Tickets - $25.
Door Tickets - $30 (Cash only).

The Early Worm Ticket Special is now on! Grab your tickets now for the special price of $20 each. Hurry, sale ends 30 May!

She has prepared (for a course on the history of nature) a PowerPoint presentation on the history of the naming of Australian plants, using beautiful botanical art to tell the story.

WHERE: Princes Hill Community Centre (rear 270 MacPherson Street, North Carlton) from 7:30PM.

DONATION: $5-$10.

MELBOURNE SCIENCE FICTION CLUB meet at St. David's United Church Hall, 74 Melville Road, Brunswick West from 8PM.

Dates:July 18th - 20th, 2008.
Venue: The County Court of Victoria and other venues around Melbourne

Program available: May 2008!

An annual event where the public, writers, social commentators, judicial luminaries and the legal profession come together to both celebrate and promote contemporary writings in the fields of justice and human rights, and to overlay these discussions with guest writers in the genre of crime fiction.

Festival Patrons:
International Crime Patron: Ian Rankin.
Australian Crime Patron: Kerry Greenwood.
International Social Justice Patron: Brendan Kilty SC.

For more information please contact Reader's Feast Bookstore.
Email: events@readersfeast.com.au
Phone: (03) 9662 4699.
http://www.readersfeast.com.au/

MELBOURNE SCIENCE FICTION CLUB meet at St. David's United Church Hall, 74 Melville Road, Brunswick West from 8PM.

WHEN: Saturday, July 26th & 27th,2008, from 10am.
WHERE: Victorian Trades Hall.
HOW MUCH? $7 per day / $10 weekend

WHAT IS DOUJICON?

Doujicon (pronounced Doh-OO-gee-Con) is a place where local cartoonists and
animators can sell their works without the worries of other Zine Fairs,
Pop-Culture Expos and Comic Conventions.

At Doujicon, it's all about the comics, and the artists that create them! We know how little there is encouraging new artists to spring up and create their own work. We're aware that it's impossible to get people to pay attention to locally made stuff when Yu-Gi-Oh and Spider Man are competing for your audience's attention and money. And we know all too well that there's no way in hell you're going to turn a profit when you've got to pay $100 or more for a table (although, technically, that IS an option if you want to pay that much) as well as the production costs of your comics.

Been there… Done that…

Upon registering, artists and animators will be given a table for no cost other than that of entry ... That's right, you get a table to sell your wares to the public for only $10!

Doujicon is going to be all about the people that made the cartoon & comic industry what it is today: The people that did it, and continue to do it, themselves.

What's more, we're going to show you that you can do it too!

Where:
Whitehorse Centre (Rear Whitehorse Civic Centre, 397 Whitehorse Road, Nunawading Vic.
Melway Map 48 G9)

To book tickets ring: 9262-6555. (10am to 4:30pm Mon. to Fri.)

ink presents: Kerry Greenwood & David Greagg

City of Stonnington Event
Wednesday 4 June 2008.
7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Doors Open 7:00 PM).

Kerry Greenwood is the author of more than forty novels and six non-fiction works including the bestselling Corinna Chapman series, and is the editor of two collections. Previous novels in the Phryne Fisher series are Cocaine Blues, Flying Too High and Murder in the Dark. When she is not writing Kerry is an advocate in the Magistrates' Court for the Legal Aid Commission. She is not married, has no children and lives with a registered Wizard.

David Greagg is a pseudonym for David Greagg. He was born in Perth, which is a long way from anywhere except Perth. He is also the author of Eaglehawk, It's True! Burke & Wills Left the Frying-Pan Behind and It's True! The Vikings Got Lost. At various times he has been an economist, accountant, company secretary, policy analyst, astrologer, TV quiz show contestant and teacher of mathematics, chemistry & physics, medieval warrior and accredited wizard. He will do, at various times in the future, other equally unpredictable things.

'ink: celebrating writers' is a partnership between Stonnington Libraries and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.

Entry $5; includes a drink.

Doors open at 7pm.

Council Chambers,
Prahran Town Hall,
Cnr Chapel and Greville Streets,
Prahran 3181.

The School of Philosophy at ACU National in Melbourne warmly invites you to attend the 2008 Wednesday Lectures, a Free Public Lecture Series running each Wednesday for six weeks at 6.30pm.

The lectures are open to everyone and no bookings are required.

Rethinking our Place in Nature

Wednesday 4 June - Raimond Gaita 'The Significance of the Human'

Wednesday 11 June - Clive Hamilton 'Understanding Nature from Ourselves'

Wednesday 18 June - Alex Arbuthnot 'Country and City'

Wednesday 25 June - Deborah Rose 'Indigenous and Western Understandings of Nature'

Wednesday 2 July - Martin Harrison 'Sense and Sustainability'

Wednesday 9 July - Freya Mathews 'The Radical Meaning of Sustainability'

6.30pm at The Christ Lecture Theatre, ACU National, Melbourne Campus (St Patrick's), 115 Victoria Parade Fitzroy.

For further information email: jasmin.chen@acu.edu.au or phone 9953 3160.

About Our Speakers

Alex Arbuthnot is an irrigation dairy farmer from Nambrok in Victoria where he has farmed with his family for 30 years. He is the former President of the Victorian Farmers Federation and is a Director of Landcare Australia Limited. Alex was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 1998 for his services to agriculture and landcare and in 2005 was appointed to the Australian Landcare Council representing the National Farmers Federation.

Raimond Gaita is Foundation Professor of Philosophy at ACU National and Professor of Moral Philosophy at King's College London. He is perhaps best known to the general reader for the prize-winning memoir, Romulus, My Father. His other books include Good and Evil: An Absolute Conception, A Common Humanity: Thinking About Love and Truth and Justice and The Philosopher's Dog.

Clive Hamilton is a visiting fellow at the Regulatory Institutions Network, ANU, and former executive director of The Australia Institute, a progressive think tank he founded. He is the author of a number of best-selling books including, Growth Fetish, Affluenza (with Richard Denniss) and Scorcher: the dirty politics of climate change. His next book, The Freedom Paradox: towards a post-secular ethics, will be published on 1 August.

Martin Harrison is an award winning poet, essayist and literary critic. His publications include The Kangaroo Farm, Summer, Music: Poems and Prose, and a collection of essays, Who Wants to Create Australia? concerned with contemporary Australian poetry and senses of place and environment. Harrison is currently Director of Writing and Cultural Studies at the University of Technology, Sydney.

Freya Mathews is Associate Professor in the Philosophy Program at La Trobe University, teaching ecological philosophy and co-ordinating the Environmental Enquiry major. Her books include The Ecological Self, For Love of Matter: A Contemporary Panpsychism and Reinhabiting Reality: Towards a Recovery of Culture. She is also co-editor of the journal, PAN (Philosophy Activism Nature).

Deborah Rose is Senior Research Fellow in the Fenner School of Environment and Society at the Australian National University. Her research focus is indigenous knowledge and ethics and she has worked with Aboriginal people in their claims to land, and in other decolonising contexts. Her books include the award winning Dingo Makes Us Human and Reports from a Wild Country: Ethics for Decolonisation.

Where: Northcote Library, 32-38 Separation Street, Northcote. (Melway 30 F8).

Nicki Greenberg is a passionate reader, writer and artist. Hear her speak about her graphic novel adaptation of "The Great Gatsby" and the writing and artistic processes.

JANE BADLER (a.k.a Diana) makes a rare in-store appearance at MINOTAUR on Friday 6th June, 5.30 - 7.30pm, to promote her new album of original songwriting, THE DEVIL HAS MY DOUBLE.

The album is a compulsive mix of fame, sex and solitude, set to a sweeping soundtrack of cold soul and passionate synthetics. THE DEVIL HAS MY DOUBLE is a tale of too much, too long - how a charmed life has a price that eventually must be paid.

Giveaways up for grabs, and Jane will also sign your own "V" memorabilia. Minotaur is 121 Elizabeth St, Melbourne.

Album launch with SIR - Saturday 14th June, Toff in Town, Melbourne, 9pm, Supported by Jessica Says.

For more info go to:
http://www.myspace.com/janebadler

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Chinese Food.

Doors open 8.00pm
Quiz starts 9.00pm

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

This is just to let you know that we are taking bookings for Euphoria 2008 - from February 2008. We have made some significant changes to Euphoria this year, the major ones are listed below. More information and booking details are available on our website, and if you have any other questions please feel free to ask.

NEW VENUE: About 1 - 1 1/2 hours North of Melbourne.

NEW DATES & SHORTER EVENT: Euphoria 2008 will take place over the Queens Birthday weekend - 3pm Friday June 6 till after lunch Monday June 9.

NEW MENU: Vegetarian meals as usual Friday evening, Saturday, Sunday
and breakfast Monday. Omnivorous feast Monday lunch.

NEW RITUALS.

SMALLER NUMBERS: In order to help maintain focus, numbers for
Euphoria 2008 will be limited to a maximum of 50 people only.

Have you made/sewn/drawn/computer generated anything Star Trek or Sci Fi related?

Bring it along for our Arts and Crafts session.

Got any amazing, unusual or special Star Trek or Sci Fi items in your collection? Bring them along to show off to the members and visitors.

Tell us the story of how you got it or where it came from, or maybe just give us all a chance to see what you've collected.

*Meet us at 7pm in the foyer to buy tickets for the 7.30pm screening.*

FILM NIGHT: "My Neighbor Totoro" from Hayao Miyazaki.

My Neighbour Totoro is a 1988 animated film written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli.

The movie won the Animage Anime Grand Prix prize in 1988. 86 mins duration.

Louise, MSFC film night curator, says it's a delightful family-friendly movie.

Discussion will contrast it with other brief anime/animation items.

COST: Now $1 members, $2 non-members.

Downloadable PDF order form (100KB).

St Mark's Anglican Church, 250 George Street, Fitzroy. (Melway Ref 2C C9).
Tickets $20 pre-purchased, $25 at the door. Bookings 0400 999 248 or email manager@gloriana.com.au

John Sheppard (c1515-c1560) Media vita.
Eric Whitacre (1970) When David Heard.
Herbert Howells (1892-1983) Take him earth for cherishing.
George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) Funeral Ode for Queen Caroline (The Ways of Zion do mourn).

"You could successfully put up the Gloriana voices against any similar group in the country" - The Age.

MIDWINTER MEAL!

We're having a Midwinter Meal on the (almost) longest night of the year at
the Melbourne SF Club.

Good news: good food (menu below) and it's in the Lounge, where we have
Heaters and a Warm Kitchen.

Cost is $10.00 per head. The West Brunswick Uniting Church is an
alcohol-free zone.

We figure it's a chance for members to get together, sit around, eat and
chat.

Farming and food production have strong connections to us all. Join us on a journey through three film nights as we explore some of the darker sides of our relationship with food. Issues ranging from industrial factory farming and genetically engineering of food to the loss of food sovereignty and threat to food security will be addressed. We'll have a short discussion of some of the problems raised and pose solutions and actions we can all take.

As entrée you can enjoy the spoof Star Wars animation titled 'Store Wars' (5 min) where Cuc Skywalker and Jedi Yoghurt take on Dark Tador in a battle for the Farm. Main course consists of a documentary titled 'The World According to Monsanto' (100 min) which investigates the journey of Monsanto corporation from chemical manufactures to biotechnology giant in its global takeover of our food, farms, and agriculture heritage.

WHERE: Loop Bar, 23 Meyers Place, Melbourne CBD near Spring and Bourke Streets.

WHEN: From 6:30PM.

Free Entry.

Drinks and food available from the bar.

Seating is limited and RSVP is preferred.

Chocolate.

We explore one of the four fannish food groups: Chocolate!

As portrayed in film and television.

Peter Fagan is your host at the MSFC film night this Friday night.

PS Chocolate will be for sale in the kitchen, as usual.

COST: Now $1 members, $2 non-members.

Written by Derek Benfield,
Directed by Brian Uniacke.

Two couples, an isolated hotel, a romantic weekend away - what could go wrong? Plenty! Little do they know that each couple is married to the respective partner! Throw in a porter who is running the hotel while his sister is on holiday who finds himself caught up in the lies and deception as these couples find out the other is in the same building. A very funny comedy, not to be missed.

On Saturday 28th June at 8pm we will present this show in Anonymous Theatre style, ie the actors will all have rehearsed individually with the director, but will have no knowledge of who their fellow actors are until the curtains open and the play is performed in front of the audience.

Two more performances of this show will be staged the following week, on Friday 4th July and Saturday 5th July at 8pm, giving the actors a week to rehearse together.

WHERE: Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Rd Beaumaris 3193. (Melway 86 G6.)

WHEN:
Anonymous Theatre Night Saturday June 28th at 8pm.
Ensemble rehearsed performances Friday July 4th, Saturday July 5th at 8pm.

COST: Tickets for Anonymous night June 28th are all $25, which includes a discussion with the cast and crew after the show, and a gala supper.

Prices for July 4th and 5th are adults $18, all others $15.

Bookings 9583 6896 or email beaumaristheatre@optusnet.com.au

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Mexican!

Doors open 8.00pm
Quiz starts 9.00pm

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

WHERE: Northcote Town Hall, Roof Top Floor, 189 High Street Northcote, Victoria.

WHEN: Doors open at 11am. Runs until 6pm.

COST: $30 for Austrek and other members of SF clubs, $40 for non members.

All Bookings to be made through First Contact Conventions.

$125 VIP tickets see First Contact Conventions website for details.

Join Austrek and First Contact Conventions in hosting Tracy Scoggins "Babylon 5, Lois & Clark, Star Trek DS9 and Highlander" for the afternoon. Check The First Contact Conventions Website for the afternoon scheduled events.

BUT WAIT..... there's still more. We will also be joined live via two way Satellite from the USA by; (well watch this space because I can't yet announce who). He will be doing a full one hour two way Q&A session. This will be a unique opportunity to meet this person as he is a very rare attendee of conventions, and this may be your only opportunity to meet him.

WHERE: The Cornish Arms. 163A Sydney Road, Brunswick.

WHEN: 9:00PM until late!

COST: Free!

First showing of a work in progress.

Monday May 5th.

At 45 Downstairs

45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

8pm $15.

Tickets at the door.

"We'll be recording this on the night, so for those of you who can't make it, I'll be able to post a snippet of it on youtube."

Helen Cerne is a Melbourne writer who has published short stories, poems and articles in many Australian literary magazines. For two decades Helen has worked as coordinator of Western Union Writers. Interested in artistic collaborations her first co-published work was a local history, Vision becomes Reality. For her MA thesis she explored creative heterosexual partnerships and co-wrote a novel Shifting with her partner Serge. Helen's first poetry collection Just Heart Work explores women artists' creative experiences. Helen has taught creative writing and last year published an autobiographical novel, Those Who Can't, about teaching.

'ink: celebrating writers' is a partnership between Stonnington Libraries and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.

Entry: $5 - includes a drink.

Doors open at 7pm.

Council Chambers,
Prahran Town Hall,
Cnr Chapel and Greville Streets,
Prahran 3181.

Nicki Greenberg discusses her wonderful graphic novel
interpretation of The Great Gatsby.

More details here and here.

In homage to F. Scott Fitzgerald's jazz age classic, this graphic novel adaptation brings to life the glitter, the melancholy and the grand and crumpled dreams of Fitzgerald's unforgettable characters.

Daisy, Nick, Tom, Jordan and Gatsby himself are rendered true to Fitzgerald's original characterisation, with a difference: they are not human. Inhabiting the authentic setting of 1920s New York, they join a throng of fantastical creatures to play out the drama, the wry humour and the tragedy of the novel.

SPECIAL FOR MSFC MEMBERS: normally $40.00 a copy, yours on the night and (if you like) signed by the author: $34.00 cash, $36.00 cheque & other. With thanks to Slow Glass Books.

http://www.greentix.com.au/evinfo.php?eventid=24559&sid=

Event Details:
Fair trade is not only about coffee, chocolate and tea! You can find out how to be a Fair Fashionista at Fashion Fights Fair, a parade and night market showcasing fair trade, sustainable, and ethical fashion, from 8pm on Friday, May 9 at BMW Edge in Federation Square, Melbourne.

Singer/Songwriter, Clare Bowditch, will host an evening of fashion from designers addressing social, environmental, and ethical issues, which means that in addition to Fairtrade and No SweatShop accredited garments, you will be treated to a stylish mix of highly desirable organic wear, recycled garments and carbon-neutral labels, topped off with fabulous op-shop finds.

Watch out for styling tips that will not only save you money, but also support Fair Trade and environmentally sustainable practices! You can satisfy your consumer cravings after the show with a little retail therapy at participating designers' stalls at the night market, located around the balcony and foyer of the BMW Edge.

There are heaps of great prizes to be won on the night too, with haircare packs from Mastey, a makeup lesson with cruelty-free makeup artist Nicole Groch, and vouchers and products from many of the great labels participating
in the show - and don't forget, goodie bags for everyone!

Tickets will be available from April, either from this site; 'Friends of the Earth' (312 Smith Street Collingwood. Victoria), the Town halls of the City of Yarra or at the door on May 9 until sold out.

Book early to ensure a great night out and make sure to highlight the details in your diary.

The first Australian musical to conquer Broadway, The Boy from Oz was nominated for five Tony Awards in 2004, including Best Musical, and our own Hugh Jackman won the Tony for Best Actor in a Musical. CLOC Musical Theatre, with its outstanding reputation for the highest production values, will present this exciting show in May 2008. You can expect only the best from CLOC, including a top cast, elaborate sets, dazzling costumes and unforgettable songs like 'When I Get My Name in Lights', 'Quiet Please, There's a Lady on Stage', 'Everything Old is New Again', 'I Honestly Love You', 'Don't Cry Out Loud', 'I Still Call Australia Home' and 'I Go to Rio'.

If you love musical theatre and the razzle dazzle of a toe tapping, all dancing, all singing hit show - then don't miss The Boy from Oz.

VENUE:
Alexander Theatre,
Monash University
Clayton (Melway Map 70, Ref G12).

DATES:
Friday 9 May @ 8pm
Saturday 10 May @ 8pm
Sunday 11 May @ 2pm

Wednesday 14 May @ 8pm
Thursday 15 May @ 8pm
Friday 16 May @ 8pm
Saturday 17 May @ 8pm
Sunday 18 May @ 2pm

Tuesday 20 May @ 8pm
Wednesday 21 May @ 8pm
Thursday 22 May @ 8pm
Friday 23 May @ 8pm
Saturday 24 May @ 8pm
Sunday 25 May @ 2pm

TICKET PRICES:
EARLY BIRD TICKET PRICES - for tickets purchased before March 28th 2008.
Adults $37.00
Concessions & Groups* $34.00
Child (16 and under) $22.00
*Group: 15 tickets or more (excluding children)
*Concession: Old Age Pensions, Seniors Cards, Students

FULL TICKET PRICES - for tickets purchased after March 28th 2008
Adults $42.00
Concessions & Groups* $39.00
Child (16 and under) $28.00
*Group: 15 tickets or more (excluding children)
*Concession: Old Age Pensions, Seniors Cards, Students

Sunday 11th May 2008 in Melbourne.

Nathan Fillion, Ron Glass, Jason Palmer and other guests will be appearing on the 11th May 2008 in Melbourne from 9.00am to 6.00pm.

The event features the guests live on stage for a few stories, anecdotes as well as Question and Answers. There will also be a variety of events throughout the day, such as auctions, raffles and trivia. There will also be merchandise as well as rare collectables available to purchase from the dealers. You will also have the chance to meet the VIP guest and acquire autographs and professional photographs.

Please note that autographs are provided via your seating allocations so book early to ensure availability.

For your tickets: BOOK NOW!

Absentee Packs

Should you be unable to attend the event in Sydney or Melbourne, we have absentee packs available. Make sure you don't miss out!
Download the Absentee Form

About The HUB

*Set up for Multiclub Minicon.

The Melbourne Science Fiction Club, in conjunction with StarWalking, Austrek, Convergence and First Contact Conventions would like to invite you to the May SF Minicon!

SPECIAL GUEST: Shaun Tan.

WHEN: 10:00am - 4:30pm.

WHERE: St David's Uniting Church,
74 Melville Rd, West Brunswick.

Entry is only $10 for a full day of panels, club discounts, dealers, door prizes, fun and games. Costumers also welcome, hall prizes awarded on the day.

Lunch and refreshments will be available for purchase, and the MSFC Library will be open to MSFC members during the day.

We will also be running an auction on the day at which you or your members are welcome to sell items. There is an initial limit of 3 items per person.

8.30 p.m. 'til late (Jess & the Paige Boys are on first so please come early!)

"This is a part of a special month of performances to commemorate 5 years of Indie nights for the Collage program. Their favourite female artists have been invited to play on the 20th, so I am delighted to have been invited!"

Entry is free and also playing are Jess Lee, Jacob's Ladder and Rosie Burgess.

AUTHOR NIGHT - Christopher Ride.

Templebar Restaurant at 98 Smith Street, Collingwood.

As well as having fabulous food, Templebar has Dinner & Show packages.

$35 per person for 3 course Dinner & Show (that is great value!)

or

New option: $20 per person for Finger Food & Show.
Bookings - call: 03 9417 5811 http://www.templebarmelbourne.com/

Dinner from 7 p.m. and Show at 8.30 p.m.

Jess Paige (me), my brother Josh Romig and my father Steve Romig are all going to do a gig together!

WHERE: The Butterfly Club, 204 Bank Street, South Melbourne.
WHEN: 28th May from 8PM.
COST: $15 per seat.

"Bring along your sketchpad and pencils."

FILM DISCUSSION NIGHT - Star Wars Parodies.

Jill Sparrow lives in Melbourne and has been been active in social justice, education and trade union campaigns since the early 1990s. She is the author, with Jeff Sparrow, of two books, Radical Melbourne: a Secret History and Radical Melbourne 2: the Enemy Within. She is currently working in IT, studying psychology, occasionally teaching politics and taking on any other odd projects that come her way. Having recently completed her first novel, in collaboration with science-fiction writer, Paul Voermans, she is now enjoying doing more reading than writing!

'ink: celebrating writers' is a partnership between Stonnington Libraries and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.

Entry $5; includes a drink.

Doors open at 7pm.

Council Chambers,
Prahran Town Hall,
Cnr Chapel and Greville Streets,
Prahran 3181.

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Hot and Cold Desserts.

Doors open 8.00pm
Quiz starts 9.00pm

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

The King and Queen plan a big party to celebrate the christening of their baby daughter, the Princess Markita. The traditional wall-papering scene gets an airing amongst the preparations. Perhaps they should have invited the wicked Horseface because she takes her revenge by cursing the child? Winnie, the good witch can only suggest keeping the child away from needles! Perhaps she should also suggest keeping the butler away from bottles!

Edmund, the King's younger brother, has designs on the throne (they should have bought him a colouring book like the other children!). He betrays them all and allows Horseface to bring a spinning wheel into the palace. His reward is the crown, but everyone else in the palace will sleep forever... unless Prince Charming can fight his way through the haunted woods and awaken the princess with a kiss.

Will Horseface the wicked witch be vanquished forever? Will principal boy win principal girl? Will everyone live happily ever after?

This pantomime has everything: familiar old jokes, traditional slapstick, villains to boo and heroes to cheer, including two vampire bats who discuss fast food and how things aren't like they used to be!

Friday, 4th April, 7:30pm
Saturday, 5th April, 2pm
Saturday, 5th April, 7:30pm
Sunday, 6th April, 2pm
Thursday, 10th April, 7:30pm
Friday, 11th April, 7:30pm
Saturday, 12th April, 2pm
Saturday, 12th April, 7:30pm

Performances are held at the Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona Ticket
Info:
Adults: $7
Concession: $7
(unless otherwise specified).

WHERE: Port Phillip EcoCentre,Cnr Herbert and Blessington Streets, St Kilda.
WHEN: 11am – 7pm.
COST: Gold coin donation.

The urban environment presents unique challenges to planning for sustainable living, food production and transport. Hear our three panels of speakers address these themes in the local context to educate you about some of the issues and present some solutions.

Enjoy an indigenous welcome, a brief from the City of Port Phillip on their local Community Pulse program; a tour of the Port Phillip EcoCentre. A panel session on local food production and food sustainability issues. A hearty Mexican lunch, browse over our free community and campaign stalls, listen to some local musicians and be part of the local launch of the new book 'Climate Code Red' by David Spratt and Phillip Sutton.

Return to hear panel discussions on sustainable transport and urban planning. Then stay around after 5pm and be part of the Engage Media and Plug-in TV short documentary screenings.

*Panel speakers include -
Ben Neil (Cultivating Community);
Bob Phelps (Gene Ethics); a speaker from 'Lentil as Anything';
Frank Fisher (Undertandascope); Elliot Fishman (Institute for Sensible Transport);
Anna Griffiths (unChain St Kilda); Bridget Puszka (BP Architects)
and other speakers still to be confirmed.

These speakers address issues and present a vision for what a sustainable urban future might look like with specific reference to local issues, policy and development.

WHERE: The Brunswick Hotel. 430 Sydeny Road, Brunswick.

WHEN: 9:30PM until late!

COST: Free!

Downloadable PDF order form (208KB).

Sunday 6 April 2008 at 2:30pm.
St Mark's Anglican Church, 250 George Street Fitzroy. (Melway Ref 2C C9).
Tickets $20 pre-purchased, $25 at the door Bookings 0400 999 248 or email manager@gloriana.com.au

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (c1525-1594) Stabat Mater à8.
Carlo Gesualdo (c1560-1613) Maria mater gratiae; Hei mihi Domine; O vos omnes.
Antonio Lotti (c1667-1740) Crucifixus à8.
Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643) Nisi Dominus; Lauda Jerusalem (from the 1610 Vespers).
Giovanni Gabrieli (c1557-1612) Confitebor tibi Domine à13; Exaudi me Domine à16.
Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) Ave Maria (from the Quattro Pezzi Sacri).
Ildebrando Pizzetti (1880-1968) Messa di Requiem.

"You could successfully put up the Gloriana voices against any similar group in the country" The Age

Kerry Greenwood!

Doors open 8.00pm, Kerry's author talk starts at 9.00pm, it'll be fun!

List of author's books here, including Phryne Fisher and fantasy - and from Kerry's own web site:

Kerry Greenwood was born in the Melbourne suburb of Footscray and after wandering far and wide, she returned to live there. She has a degree in English and Law from Melbourne University and was admitted to the legal profession on the 1st April 1982, a day which she finds both soothing and significant. Kerry has written twenty novels, a number of plays, including The Troubadours with Stephen D'Arcy, is an award-winning children's writer and has edited and contributed to several anthologies. In 1996 she published a book of essays on female murderers called Things She Loves: Why Women Kill.

The Phryne Fisher series (pronounced Fry-knee, to rhyme with briny) began in 1989 with Cocaine Blues which was a great success. Kerry has written sixteen books in this series with no sign yet of Miss Fisher hanging up her pearl-handled pistol. Kerry says that as long as people want to read them, she can keep writing them.

Kerry Greenwood has worked as a folk singer, factory hand, director, producer, translator, costume-maker, cook and is currently a solicitor.

When she is not writing, she works as a locum solicitor for the Victorian Legal Aid. She is also the unpaid curator of seven thousand books, three cats (Attila, Belladonna and Ashe) and a computer called Apple (which squeaks). She embroiders very well but cannot knit. She has flown planes and leapt out of them (with a parachute) in an attempt to cure her fear of heights (she is now terrified of jumping out of planes but can climb ladders without fear). She can detect second-hand bookshops from blocks away and is often found within them.

For fun Kerry reads science fiction/fantasy and detective stories. She is not married, has no children and lives with a registered wizard. When she is not doing any of the above she stares blankly out of the window.

Small print: door charge for visitors.

COST: $4 members, $6 non-members.

WHERE: Living Legends International Home of Rest for Champion Horses, Oaklands Road, Greenvale Vic 3059. (Melway ref 177 J9).

WHEN: 9am – 4pm.

COST: Entry is free.

Yes, once every hundred years or so, the MSFC allows the churchgoers of St
David's Uniting Church to occupy their church hall on a Friday night to
celebrate their centenary.

Instead, the MSFC is off to the Cinema Nova, Carlton, 380 Lygon St (between
Elgin & Faraday Sts). We meet at 7.30pm this Friday 18 April in the downstairs foyer in front of the ticket office.

The movie is "Be Kind, Rewind", which starts at 7.40pm. So be on time please. It's a SF comedy with Jack Black, Mos Def, Mia Farrow and directed
by Michel Gondry.

It's rated 'fresh' on rottentomatoes.com, who say, "This is simply a hilarious comedy, fun for film fans of all stripes, which celebrates the sheer joy of watching and making films." The Internet Movie Database says this movie's genre is "comedy/sci-fi". Reviews say it's a romance.

We had hoped to see In the Shadow of the Moon, but the Nova's session times made this impossible. We hope to have In The Shadow of the Moon as the
subject of a film discussion night later in the year. Be Kind, Rewind, looks like an excellent alternative.

Def was in the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.

Gondry directed the brilliant Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

Farrow is half Australian, was married to Frank Sinatra, and has appeared in many Woody Allen films including his fantasy The Purple Rose of Cairo.

Black is a singer with Tenacious D (a B-grade version of The Flight of the Conchords) and also starred in King Kong.

Prices are full movie prices ie no discounts. Sell a kidney if you want to buy popcorn and coke.

"A superb collection of songs from Australia’s finest folksinger" - Sydney Morning Herald.

Dublin born songwriter, Enda Kenny has lived in Melbourne, Australia since 1987. Drawing on the traditions of the seanachie and yarn spinner, his songs describe stories of life, humour, nature and injustice. Enda's gift as a performer is his ability to bring alive the individual experience in a way his audience intuitively relates to.

Acclaimed as one of Australia’s finest songwriters, Enda has produced five albums since the release of Twelve Songs in 1994. All feature the masterful fiddle playing of long time collaborator Lindsay Martin. Live performances regularly feature Lindsay and Sandy Brady on bass, who joined them for the recording of Cloud Lining.

His songs have been recorded by a growing list of local and international artists including Roy Bailey, Karen Lynne, Reel Time, Bram Taylor, Barrie Davis, Bob Eden and Markerr.

WHERE: The Old Cheese Factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick, 3806.

COST: Guests $10.00 -- Members & Spot Acts $7.00.

DOORS OPEN: 7.30pm

Contact: Phone: (03) 9702 1223 or Email: badfolk@optusnet.com.au

This is another great night of music
Don't miss!

$10 at the door. Book for dinner and priority seating on the link below:

http://www.manchesterlane.com.au/index.php?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=33

GUESTS OF HONOUR:
David Banks (Cyberleader - Earth shock, The 5 Doctors, Attack of the Cybermen Cyber controller, Silver Nemesis) and Sandra Reid original designer of the cybermen.

This year, Minifest 2008, will be held on April 26th.

WHERE: The Old Arts building, at the University of Melbourne.

WHEN: Minifest will open at 10am, and finish about 8pm

We hope to see you there!

FILM DISCUSSION: "Enemy Mine."

Anzac Day is about the birth of three nations - Australia, New Zealand and
Turkey - and of the waste of war.

In that same spirit, Enemy Mine is the film under discussion at the
Melbourne Science Fiction Club this Friday.

Peter Fagan leads the discussion. Anzac biscuits might be on the menu. Do
come along.

COST: $4 members, $6 non-members.

Led by vocalist/composer Judy Campbell, MOSAIC brings together accomplished musicians from Australia and overseas to present a sound at the cusp of contemporary jazz and world music. MOSAIC's original material explores musical influences ranging from African to Jewish, Brazilian to American, with a particular focus on vocal textures, underpinned by a powerful rhythm section.

Performances by the Sydney-based 8 piece band will include guest artist Kenyan master percussionist Bandika Ngao - Kenya’s foremost traditional drummer.
Sat 1/03/08 - Northcote Uniting Church, $16 / $11, 8pm.

Adapted by Shaun Prendergast from the novel by John Wyndham. Directed by Janine Chugg.

The time is the early 1950's, in the midst of the Cold War. Triffids - carnivorous plants that can walk - appear everywhere on earth. In Britain they are farmed for their oil. One night, a meteor shower creates a spectacular display, seen all over the world. The next morning, all who witnessed it are blind. Only the few who did not see the shower retain their sight, including Bill and Josella. Hovering in the shadows are the Triffids. Who will survive, and how?

PERFORMANCES:
Saturday 1st March
Sunday 2nd March at 5pm

Thursday 6th March
Friday 7th March
Saturday 8th March

All performances start at 8pm except for the Sunday performance which starts
at 5pm.

LOCATION OF PERFORMANCES:
82 Wells Road, Beaumaris. (Melway 86 G6).

PRICES:
Adults $18.
Family (2 adults & 2 children 16 and under) $55.
All other tickets (members, children, concessions, groups) $15.
Subscribers $15.

NOTE:
-"Concessions" apply for students 17 years and older, pensioners and healthcare cardholders.
- Groups applies to bookings for 10 or more tickets.
- Members please present membership cards to obtain discount.

WHERE: Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Road, Research Vic 3095.

WHEN: Doors open 7:30PM, performance starts 8:00PM.

COST: Adults $20, Concession $16.

Hear the remarkable story of the daughter of the late Sir Norman Myer, of the Myer Emporium. From a childhood behind the gates of the Toorak mansion Heymount, to chairing the Melbourne Museum of Modern art Pamela: in her own right recounts an inspirational life. Local writer Ashlley Morgan-Shae's poetry collections are Dancing at Dusk, New Cities and Love Trash. Ashlley's poems, stories and articles have appeared in many literary magazines.

'ink: celebrating writers' is a partnership between Stonnington Libraries and the Fellowship of Australian Writers.

Entry $5; includes a drink.

Doors open at 7pm.

Prahran/Windsor Library
Town Hall
Chapel Street
Prahran 3181.

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Hawaiian!

Prizes will be given for the most alluring* Hawaiian shirt (dudes) or similar garment (dudesses and sirens).

Prizes will be given to the winning quiz team too. Andrew has written the quiz. It covers modern media in all its forms, ie science fiction AND fantasy. At least 50 questions. The MSFC operates a weapons policy: please don't point them at the Quizmaster.

The menu includes:

• Hawaiian burgers and salad
• Banana splits
• Ice cream

and, as usual, chocolate and coffee is on offer!

* a synonym for the word "loud"

Doors open 8.00pm
Quiz starts 9.00pm

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

COST: $4 members, $6 non-members.

Presented in conjunction with the Bayside Festival.

Two nights of entertainment that should not be missed!

Saturday, 8th March, 6:30pm followed by fireworks at Cherry Lake behind the
theatre at 9pm.

Sunday, 9th March at 6:30PM.

WHERE: Altona Theatre, 115 Civic Parade, Altona.

All Tickets Only $5 - phone 0425 705 550 to book tickets, or buy them at the
theatre on the night!

Jack Dann's Dreaming Again.

At the Melbourne Science Fiction Club this Friday night Jack Dann's Dreaming Again!*

Dreaming Downunder won the World Fantasy Award, Ten years later, it's Dreaming Again, the next great anthology of Australian fantasy short stories.

Another bombshell in the landscape of Australian fantasy fiction. Come along and get a preview. Dreaming Again isn't being launched until June/July, so this is your only chance.

By the way:

* The Man Who Melted Jack Dann is the name of a word game inspired by Jack Dann's book The Man Who Melted (1984). The aim of the game is to place the writer's name in front or behind the title of one of the writer's book and see if you get a funny sentence. Extra credit is given for shifting a word's part of speech entirely, or appropriating part of the name as part
of the sentence or phrase.

For example Two Sisters Gore Vidal, The Joy of Cooking Irma S. Rombauer, Captain Blood Returns Raphael Sabatini, Flush Virginia Woolf, Paradise Lost John Milton, Clans of the Alphane Moon Philip K. Dick and Contact Carl Sagan.

Or indeed, Jack Dann's Dreaming Again.

I am playing at The Twilight Sounds Festival tomorrow with my band of Paige Boys .. it is run by Banyule Council at Sills Bend in the park in Heidelberg.

Address: Mel Ref 32 D4 Warringal Park - via Burgundy Street, Heidelberg.

It is free and the weather is going to be cooler than today :)

Bring a rug and cool drinks and a snack.

The line up is :

5- 6 p.m. Pearly Shells Hot Five with Kerry Simpson.

6-7 p.m. Glory Tuesday.

6.50 - 7.35pm Jess & the Paige Boys.

7.35 - 8.25pm Tonks & Green.

8.30 - 9.30pm Mark Seymour & Band.

WHERE: Living Legends International Home of Rest for Champion Horses, Oaklands Road, Greenvale Vic 3059. (Melway ref 177 J9).

WHEN: 9am – 4pm.

COST: Entry is free.

FILM DISCUSSION NIGHT: "Supernova."

The King and Queen plan a big party to celebrate the christening of their baby daughter, the Princess Markita. The traditional wall-papering scene gets an airing amongst the preparations. Perhaps they should have invited the wicked Horseface because she takes her revenge by cursing the child? Winnie, the good witch can only suggest keeping the child away from needles! Perhaps she should also suggest keeping the butler away from bottles!

Edmund, the King's younger brother, has designs on the throne (they should have bought him a colouring book like the other children!). He betrays them all and allows Horseface to bring a spinning wheel into the palace. His reward is the crown, but everyone else in the palace will sleep forever... unless Prince Charming can fight his way through the haunted woods and awaken the princess with a kiss.

Will Horseface the wicked witch be vanquished forever? Will principal boy win principal girl? Will everyone live happily ever after?

This pantomime has everything: familiar old jokes, traditional slapstick, villains to boo and heroes to cheer, including two vampire bats who discuss fast food and how things aren't like they used to be!

COST: $4 members, $6 non-members.

Food and Quiz Night at the MSFC!

Pancakes.

Doors open 8.00pm
Quiz starts 9.00pm

COSTS:

• Food: $6.50 Members, $7.50 Visitors.
• Trivia: $3.00 Members, $4.00 Visitors.
• Food and Trivia: $8.00 Members, $9.00 Visitors.

Socialising and use of the library: FREE!

What was the colour of Mr Spock's ?? In episode 102 of the Next Gen what was the name of ? ?

Yes, that's right, it's Star Trek Trivia day again, so bring your thinking caps, and study your Star Trek reference book or start watching everything you can again to get the edge. Prizes will be given to the winning group of each round, and a great prize will be given to the ultimate winners.

Begins: 2PM.

Gold coin donation..

The next "Stonnington Readings" are to be a bit dfferent to the usual. We're having a film instead.

"mask of deception" is a not to be missed film on the foods we eat and the harm we're exposed to daily. The "food" it talks about is not the usual fast food, rather it's the foods most of us would consider a healthy alterative.

This is not scaremongering, rather it's a film that enables us to make an informed choice about what we eat and what is "healthy".

Join us on Wednesday 6th February 2008 at 7.00pm at the Prahan Library, Prahran Town Hall, Cnr Chapel & Greville Sts, Prahran.

Rare Books, Magazines, Comics....

Richard Overall, Monash University's Rare Books Librarian, will take us through the Monash University collection of early Australian comics and SF books, pulp magazines, fanzines, first editions by Really Famous Dead Authors now worth $1,000s, etc.

It's reputed to be Australia's best collection of SF publishing in public hands*.

This collection will be discussed at the MSFC in West Brunswick this
Friday night.

*(You can trust me on this, for I have handled First Editions of The Two Towers and The Return of the King, and The Time Machine. Then I had to hand them back.)

COST: $4 members, $6 non-members.

Includes Feng Shui, Astrology and Face Reading. Loads of prizes and giveaways...

Plus everyone receives Jodi's set of 5 Feng Shui Tip Books (RRP $36.95)

Or, Your Fabulous Feng Shui Kit for 2008 including a Wu Luo and bell! (RRP $29.95).

All this for $68 per person.
(Crown Club members $58)

What does 2008 hold in store for you?

Jodi will show you:

• How can we use Feng Shui in our everyday lives to achieve health, wealth and happiness?
  
• The Year of the Rat is the beginning of a new 12 year cycle, what does this mean?
  
• How can we enhance our lives this year?
  
• Feng Shui in 2008 - What can we do to make the most of the best to come and minimise harmful effects.
  
• Your Astrology in 2008
  
• Face Your Fortune in 2008 - learn the art of Face Reading with audience participation.

Plus:

Yummy scones with jam and cream!

WHEN: Saturday 9 February, 3-5pm.
(Afternoon Tea starts @ 2:30pm).

WHERE: Garden Room - Level 1, Crown Towers.

For more information visit: http://www.fengshuimaster.com.au/ or call/fax (03) 9662 1011.

SOCIETY FOR CREATIVE ANACHRONISM - Armour, Costuming, and the SCA WorldCon.

What it's like living the medieval life for a fortnight with ten thousand others. Battle on the Church lawn!

Free entry!

Brunswick Hotel, 140 Sydney road, Brunswick.

Sonic Attack will be blasting through the universe with their Hawkwind cosmic rock experience on Saturday 16 Feb at Brunswick Hotel, 140 Sydney Road, Brunswick from 8.30 with Special Guest band, Two Cent Sideshow.

"From Detroit With Love"
Original Paintings and limited edition silkscreens by Niagara.
Melbourne, Sydney : February 2008.

On the tail of her sold out Japanese tour and her Hysteric Glamour release - the motor-city pop art Queen returns to Oz for more impressive art touring and gigs to boot! Niagara is hitting Melbourne and Sydney in January with a swag of freshly painted original works all with that killer, retro noir flavour of tough women, guns and witty quips.

Outré Gallery, Melbourne: opens Friday 16 February 2008.

Outré Gallery, Sydney: opens Friday 24 February 2008.

http://www.outregallery.com/

St Kilda Bowls Club, Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.

WHERE: Eltham Performing Arts Centre, 1603 Main Road, Research Vic 3095.

WHEN: Doors open 7:30PM, performance starts 8:00PM.

COST: Adults $20, Concession $16.

COST: $18 or $14 concession.

"Ceres is the super cool, ecologically sound sustainability wonderland of Melbourne. (I buy my organic veggies at their market each week!). We'll be performing a 45 minute set, right before the wonderful Melbourne songstress, Rebecca Barnard. Enjoy the organic food at the cafe, and the licensed bar."

FILM DISCUSSION NIGHT - "The Lost Room."

Adapted by Shaun Prendergast from the novel by John Wyndham. Directed by Janine Chugg.

The time is the early 1950's, in the midst of the Cold War. Triffids - carnivorous plants that can walk - appear everywhere on earth. In Britain they are farmed for their oil. One night, a meteor shower creates a spectacular display, seen all over the world. The next morning, all who witnessed it are blind. Only the few who did not see the shower retain their sight, including Bill and Josella. Hovering in the shadows are the Triffids. Who will survive, and how?

PERFORMANCES:
Friday 22nd February
Saturday 23rd February

Friday 29th February
Saturday 1st March
Sunday 2nd March at 5pm

Thursday 6th March
Friday 7th March
Saturday 8th March

All performances start at 8pm except for the Sunday performance which starts
at 5pm.

LOCATION OF PERFORMANCES:
82 Wells Road, Beaumaris. (Melway 86 G6).

PRICES:
Adults $18.
Family (2 adults & 2 children 16 and under) $55.
All other tickets (members, children, concessions, groups) $15.
Subscribers $15.

NOTE:
-"Concessions" apply for students 17 years and older, pensioners and healthcare cardholders.
- Groups applies to bookings for 10 or more tickets.
- Members please present membership cards to obtain discount.

Bookings: Ph. 9583 6896
Mail: PO Box 7230, Beaumaris 3193.

Email:
beaumaristheatre@optusnet.com.au
Website: http://www.beaumaristheatre.com.au/

COST: $4 members, $6 non-members.

COST: $12 or $10 concession.

"I'll be returning, with Rachel and William, to our favourite little Melbourne haunt for a cosy and relaxed evening of music and magic."

WHEN: Feb 24th 10am to 5pm.

ADMISSION: $5 or $10 for green showbag, children free

FIRST GIG RETURNS: 24TH OF FEBRUARY, 2008 – NOISE BAR- 291 ALBERT ST, BRUNSWICK.

CELEBRATING THE SYDNEY ROAD STREET PARTY.

EVENT AS FOLLOWS:

1pm: ROARHOUSE KICKS OFF in Sydney Rd close to 'Scavengers clothing store' from the corner of Albert St & Sydney Rd (city side). Event will be filmed for Noise tv & Visions (Channel 31)& will feature the 'Watermelon Man' & 'O'ziriguidum' (Brazilian samba band)followed by a conga line to the Noise Bar.

2pm: Roarhouse events offically begins in the Noise Bar.

FEATURING ARTISTS:

ROARHOUSE- THE HOUSE OF DIVERSITY, EXPRESSION AND DIFFERENCE - supporting all people including those marginalised, disadvantaged and or challenged with mental illness.

This day only comes around once every 4 years, so please celebrate it with us in the BEAUTIFUL outdoor setting of CERES, an oasis of nature in the big city. Bring a rug, bring some kids, bring a picnic, or you can buy good food there. Organic, of course.

Lost Day: "What is Lost about?"

"Luckily, there's hope! And that hope is called YOUTUBE TUESDAY - our longrunning monthly big-screen showcase of the internet's most hilarious and astounding videographic content. If you've never been to YouTube Tuesday before, make it your New Year's Resolution; and if you have,
resolve to come again, and also to attend YouTube Tuesday. We would love to see you there."

WHERE? Loop, 29 Meyers Place Melbourne.
WHAT DATE? Tuesday 8 January!
WHAT TIME? Rock up from 6pm; screening will start at 6:30pm.
SO IS THIS LIKE A FUNDRAISING EVENT OR SOMETHING? That's right. Entry is by a $5 donation to Is Not Magazine.
http://www.isnotmagazine.org/

COST: $4 members, $6 non-members.

SHOW and TELL!

We share Christmas Stories - what I got, what I wanted, and what I really wished for! Bring along something you received or something you desire.

"an interesting Australian indie feature from the '80s, screening on 35mm" - Bill Mousoulis.

WHEN: 4:00 pm.
WHERE: ACMI, Federation Square.
COST: Tickets $8.

EUREKA (revisited).

Film discussion night. Formal opening of our new movie screen arrangement.

Alexandria

Established on a leg of the Nile Delta by Alexander the Great, it became the jewel of the Mediterranean. A never ending source of food to feed the massive population of Europe. A centre of learning where the great library brought great philosophers, religious zealots and charlatans. Knowledge beyond compare was prized above all.

The lighthouse guided the ships into from Europe, Britain, the Black Sea and North Africa. From the East come spices, silk and oriental customs via the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. Wines from all over the mediterranean and foodstuff from one end of the empire to the other.

The city saw many cultures come and go over the centuries which gave it universal appeal and exoctica aplenty.

The time period is 300BC to 500AD and the food will reflect this.

Need basic clothing? Think of: Eastern - Egyptian, Nubian, Lybian/Syrian, Arab, Persian.
Mediterranean - Greek, Roman, Macedonian, Gaul,
Dark Age - Goths, Vandals, Alans, Samartians, Huns.
Slaves, traders, whores, travellers, paupers, philosphers, men and women of great standing and religious characters all encouraged.

For eg Eastern you could wear viking pants, a cotton, silk or fine linen tunic or caftan with a turban will suffice. Bright colours - reds, yellows, blues, greens.

Roman or Greek - basic tunicas or pallas. Am happy to provide patterns for Roman clothing.

If you would like to play music, assist with decorations or provide other suitable entertainment, please let me know.

WHEN: Sat 26th Jan 2008
WHERE: Alphington Scout Hall,
3 Adams St Alphington,
(Melway Ref Map 31 C12)

Cost $30 adults, $15 for kids over 6 and under 15.

If you have food preferences, let us know asap e.g. vegetarians, cows milk allergies, etc.

Feast starts at 6.30pm. You will need to be there earlier to help set up. Any time from 4pm is fine.

You will need to bring -

• A mattress - futon, air or otherwise to recline on.
• A brightly covered rug or fabric to cover your mattress
  (unless it is a futon and will need no covering).
• Or large cushions to recline on.
• Eating utensils -bowl, spoon, plate, knife, drinking vessel.

No other seating will be provided unless you cannot recline and then we can provide a table for you.

Sleeping over is fine we need to vacate the hall be 12pm the next day.

Please email michellethelibrarian@hotmail.com
with the subject - "Ancient's feast" or phone 0425 734 136.

PS forgot to add - please let me know by the 21st Jan if you would like to come along.

The courses offered will be:

Week 1: Jan 28 - Feb 1.
History of Philosophy I: The Pre-Socratics (David Rathbone).
Nietzsche & The Birth of Tragedy: Music, Science & Philosophy (Paul Daniels).

Week 2: February 4 - 8.
History of Philosophy II: Plato and His Contemporaries (Cameron Shingleton and James Garrett).
Women in Dark Times (Matthew Sharpe, Lucy Ward and Sergio Mariscal).

Week 3: February 11 - 15.
Emmanual Lévinas: Philosophy of Radical Alterity (Andrea León-Montero).
Thinking the Analytical/Continental Divide (George Duke and Jack Reynolds).

Week 4: February 18 - 22.
The Pleasures: of Political Philosophy and Other Interruptions (Bryan Cooke).
Alain Badiou's Being and Event (Jon Roffe).

More details can be found at www.mscp.org.au/ss08.html including course descriptions, registration forms and posters.