Tales from the Grave

JULY 3-4, 2021

DEADLY SERIOUS TALES FROM THE GRAVE WILD WEST RACING ESCAPE TO IN THE THE OUTBACK REGIONS SPECIAL EDITION GLAMOUR STAKES How a lucrative fashions on the field competition turned a struggling country race day into a tourism triumph

MICHAEL MADIGAN FEEDBACK

Upfront 18 Mel Buttle 3 William McInnes 3 Ordinary People 11

Features Dressed for Success 4 Country Carnivals 8 Fashions on the Field 10 Funeral Crasher 24

Life+Style Arts 16 Culture Club 17 16 You & Me 18 Cafe 19 Recipe 20 Dining 21 Travel 22 Books 26 Weddings 28 Big Quiz 30 My Life 31 21

women to the event and, they surmised, BOXING CLEVER the men would follow. The idea worked Commonwealth Games bronze medallist and the event – with its Fashions on the Taylah Robertson (“Fighting spirit”, June Field competition now worth $50,000 in 19-20), is certainly an inspiration to the prizes – attracts more than 4000 people to boxing world. This pint-sized blonde a town of 3000. The community also got bombshell hasn’t let size or gender behind it with many volunteering their prevent her from pursuing her love of time and growers donating vegetables to boxing. Her dream is to claim the world give away. title and Taylah’s commitment, Many regional race clubs across the determination and sheer guts will take THIS ISSUE state host similar cup days. There’s plenty this boxing phenomenon to the top. of opportunity to attend such events for Go Taylah! the rest of the year – and it’s a great excuse Helen Holdey, Brighton to get out and explore Queensland. For this special issue of Qweekend, in Also this week, Jill Poulsen interviews partnership with Racing Queensland, Bill Edgar who has made a name for POLITICAL STAGE writer Michael Madigan and himself crashing funerals. As a “coffin This is the show that we had to have photographer Mark Cranitch were given confessor”, he speaks on behalf of the dead (“Channelling Paul Keating”, June 19-20) the enviable assignment to attend the who want to deliver their last words from and Jonathan Biggins decided that the QWeekend Edition June 19-20, 2021 Burdekin Growers Race Day in Home beyond the grave. The former private time was right. If imitation is the Hill, North Queensland. investigator and one-time criminal has sincerest form of flattery, The Gospel There, they mixed with the locals and turned his unusual career into a book, and According to Paul pays our former prime Contact us discovered that 20 years ago the has a new United States reality TV show minister the ultimate compliment by Write to the editor, Qweekend, and successful community racing carnival was and a Hollywood film in the works. being totally irreverent.Paul Keating include full contact details so we can poorly attended and looking like being Enjoy reading. could be as subtle as a sledgehammer but establish bona fides. Please keep cancelled. has left an indelible mark on this country. letters to 100 words or fewer. Letters Members of the club got together and That is the gospel truth, which is just how may be edited for brevity and clarity. came up with an idea to boost the Paul Keating likes it. EMAIL [email protected] Fashions on the Field prize pool to attract Michael Wouters, Bundaberg

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Cover Louisa Daley Photography Mark Cranitch Editor Natalie Gregg Deputy Editor Alison Walsh Arts Editor Phil Brown Design Sean Thomas Advertising/ Sales Matthew Clymo, [email protected] Qweekend Magazine Mayne Rd & Campbell St, Bowen Hills, Brisbane 4006

02 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW MEL WILLIAM BUTTLE McINNES

“My face felt Why we can’t very warm and I bank on tech

ran inside to check The online banking outages that befell Australia the other week caused just enough irritation and panic to remind if I still had everybody of how reliant we’ve become on the internet and the provision of its eyebrows” services to go about our lives. Almost instantaneous transactions and access to funds are only noticed when things go bung, we’ve grown used to getting something almost as soon as his may seem weird to say, we want it. but I’ve always liked fire. I Banks. Odd beasties. I remember was really into it as a kid. My when they were only open till four grandma lived on acreage o’clock in the afternoon and the idea of and would have what she staying open till 5pm on a Friday was calledT a “burn up” of all her old tree breathtaking. Everything was done branches. This was back in the day when over the counter, person to person, you could do whatever you wanted, with little ledger bank books detailing Brisbane had incinerators in back yards one’s account. and if you saw your neighbour burning a My first account was a Donald Duck tree stump, no eyelids were batted. and Friends Passbook from the Bank of As a little kid, I’d run around her yard New South Wales and the fact I still in Toorbul and collect things to throw on have it with evidence of only one deposit the fire, when I saw it dying down. Little transaction of $2.57, showed a certain sticks, dry grass, I’d even sneak old lack of interest to pecuniary matters. envelopes and bills outside in my pockets The banks all had a kids’ range of to help make the flames rise. products to entice customers at an early Also, around this time, I’d just read the age. Novelty money boxes were all the Roald Dahl book Matilda. For those rage. The National Bank had a blue safe unfamiliar with it, Matilda is a little girl complete with a combination system who can move objects with her mind. So and there seemed to be a parade of naturally, I, too, believed if I stared at the unhappy looking Australian animals fire and willed hard enough, it would with coin slots in their heads or backs relight. You know what? Sometimes it and creatures called Dollarmites. did! Either I was a magic eight year old Banks seemed unchangeable until with special powers or, frankly, I don’t the ATM, the hole in the wall bank. care for any other explanation. didn’t quite have the interest in gathering dropped down to once every couple of I remember a pal telling me how her As society moved away from setting twigs from far reaches. years when I booked a holiday house with father, who was in charge of rolling out light to your problem in your back yard, it That’s when I got the idea to squirt a a fireplace in Maleny or the like. ATMs across Brisbane, would take was quite some time before I was around teeny, tiny, little bit of petrol on the fire, Cut to my second winter in my home family and friends on a drive to show a fire again. When I was 12, we moved to you know, just to help it along. There was in the outer west of Brisbane. There’s no where these “space age” machines acreage and setting light to rubbish in a kaboom – to quote Roger Ramjet. The other way to say this, but it would freeze would be placed. My pal’s old man 42 gallon drums was back on the agenda. coffee cup-sized fire now shot out the top the balls off a brass monkey out here. So would become so engrossed in showing I quickly learned that rubbish was hard to of the drum. My face felt very warm and I on a whim I went into a fireplace where the things were going to sprout, light; I’m not sure why we didn’t have a ran inside to check if I still had eyebrows. showroom, just for a look. I’d signed he became oblivious to tensions and wheelie bin, probably Dad found a way to Luckily, yes I did. I was in Year 8, and had paper work on a wood heater within disinterest in the car. save money on the rates by entering into the same haircut as Kramer from 15 minutes after Brian gave me a demo on Now even ATMs seem prehistoric, for his own form of waste management. Seinfeld. I needed eyebrows and Mum to how to light the fire properly and I was nobody really uses cash much anymore, Rubbish needed a helping hand to get stop directing my hairdresser to “cut it so hooked. I’m now the proud owner of a the pandemic encouraging people to itself going, so once again I used the skills it fits under her school hat”. Hair is very wood heater in my lounge room. I’ve told swipe and touch to pay for transactions. gained at Grandma’s. I piled dry leaves flexible, Mother, it goes where it’s told. myself it adds value to the house, but I All very modern, very space age and and twigs on top of the bags of rubbish I got a bit gun-shy after the petrol think, deep down, I’m just keen to test out convenient – except when the bloody that were to be burned. This was a whole incident, then Dad invested in a council my magic powers again. online banking goes on the blink. process though, I was now a pre-teen and bin service, so my contact with fire Mel Buttle is a Brisbane comedian William McInnes is an actor and author

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such as Home And Away stars were lured to come on up north and add a dash of glamour. If they lost on the punt, racegoers were stunned to learn as they headed towards the exit gates that they could pick up a full carton of fresh produce provided by local growers – no charge. As the old saying goes, “Victory has a thou- DRESSED sand fathers, defeat is an orphan.’’ Yet it says something about the people of Home Hill that no one will lay claim to being the architect of this extraordinary event which has caught the imagination of so many Queens- landers, and can draw crowds of more than 4000 people to a town with a population of 3000. FOR Woods points to Davies who points to Barba- gallo, who points to the relentless energy of pres- ent club president Ricky Gudge and his wife, club secretary Leanne. Everyone points to “ideas man” Henry Peter- sen who is widely reputed to be able to think outside the square, coming up with marketing ploys and innovations which keep the day evolving. SUCCESS Petersen points back to the community, in- Fashion, vegetables and community spirit saved the Burdekin races from sisting it was a collaborative effort that created an event that not only allowed a struggling re- extinction and made it the benchmark for meets around the state gional race club to get back on its feet, but added more social adhesion to an already resilient com- Story MICHAEL MADIGAN munity that has historically displayed a strong sense of identity. Twenty-two years after that day under the fig trees, on a Saturday in May with the rain holding t was the last year of the last century off and the district in full bloom, the brown soils and Robbie Woods and friends were tilled into neat drills by farmers putting down sitting under the old fig trees at the their plant cane, pretty much all the people who Home Hill racetrack in a morose made this event were there. frame of mind, contemplating the end Now in middle age, or what might even of decades of tradition. be termed “advanced” age, (the dapper Barbagal- The Home Hill Cup was not what it lo has seen off his 80th birthday) they all once was and nor, for that matter, was regional shared that expression which somehow mana- Queensland.I “We were buggered,” says Woods, ges to combine elation and deep satisfaction – who retains that regional Queenslander capacity think of the faces of parents at a school gradu- to deftly summarise a complex situation. ation ceremony. The paltry crowd of a few hundred people Gazing on as the plush marquees fill drifting around the racecourse at the southern with champagne and glamorous looking men end of town, 120km south of Townsville in north and women, with the indefatigable Davies Queensland, on that 1999 Saturday afternoon smoothing out the final details next to the Fash- was just another reflection of a state slowly los- ions on the Field stage, many of the early pio- ing connection with the bush. neers only had to sit back and welcome the The economic rationalism of the ’90s had exuberant 20-somethings as they spilled out of closed down small town councils in massive the buses from Townsville, dressed up as though amalgamations, railway depots were abandoned this were Flemington racecourse and today was and the sugar industry – the economic life blood the Melbourne Cup. of the Burdekin – had just received the first of winners of the Fashions on the Field, Charlie?” WINNING STRATEGY: previous page, Burdekin what would be four federal government rescue Barbagallo and Woods reckoned it was about Race Club’s Fashions on Woods, sitting comfortably with his cronies in packages as family farms struggled to find a place $300 in the form of a voucher at a local chemist the Field Contemporary the Birds Eye Elite Marquee, gestures with his in a competitive international environment. and Davies said, “Henry is on to something here. Lady winner Ureisha beer towards a patch of grass a few metres be- Even the Home Hill Show, the annual carni- If you bump that prize money up, you’ll attract a Hughes, right, with hind him. “That was where the back fence was runner-up, Haley Akerman; val that had been part of the community lot more women and if you attract more women, above, the Burdekin Races 20 years ago,’’ he barks. “And look where it is since 1926, was about to give up the ghost be- the blokes will follow.” are a huge success for the now,” he adds, gesturing off 100m yonder. cause the shrinking local population made it no And, largely on the basis of that outrageously small town. Pictures: Mark “We have had to keep moving that rail over longer viable. politically incorrect idea of the commodification Cranitch the years just to fit people in. You will really The women of the Burdekin, many of Italian of women, sprang the Burdekin Growers Race struggle to understand what has happened here and Maltese descent, had always had a good eye Day, an event now firmly entrenched in North if you don’t know the history of it. It just kept for fashion. Queensland’s cultural and sporting landscape. growing, snowballing, and not because of adver- Henry Petersen, a man regarded by many lo- With strong support from local business, the tising, but because of word of mouth.” cals as a marketing genius, had already floated prizes for the Fashions on the Field contest Sam Cox, a former state MP for Thuringowa an idea with the race committee about putting had by 2015 reached around $50,000 and in- which takes in the Burdekin, and a member of Fashions on the Field at the centre of a new pro- cluded jewellery, Australia-wide holiday packa- a long-established Burdekin sugar growing motions strategy. ges, dining vouchers, fashion accessories, clan, loves the tradition that the Home Hill event As a few stylishly dressed ladies mingled with watches and handbags. represents even as it grows and changes with the punters on that long ago Saturday afternoon, Racegoers began showing up not merely from the times. Jan Davies turned to race club president Charlie Cairns, Mackay and Townsville but as far afield “You go there one year, you miss out a few Barbagallo and said, “What’s the prize for the as Victoria and even those southern celebrities years, you go back and you find exactly the same

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IT IS THE COMMUNITY WE ARE ALL THINKING ABOUT WHEN WE DO THIS WORK

blokes sitting in the same seats in the same area ed well into the 21st century, Birdsville still draws drinking the same beer,” he says. massive crowds every September and boasts im- Barbagallo, resplendent in charcoal suit and pressive prize money, which can top $200,000. tie, is wreathed in smiles, his mind roving back Yet there are literally scores of communities not merely two decades but five – back to the across the state which rely on the annual “Cup early ’70s when old Dr Jim Joyce who was presi- Day’’ race meeting to bind the community to- dent from 1969 to 1985 asked the then youthful gether, allowing everyone to dress up in elabor- sugar cane grower to join the club. ate costumes and take time out of their work-a- Barbagallo joined, and watched his club grow day lives to engage with one another in a from a country race meeting where up to 30 frivolous, sometime flirtatious and often cheer- bookmakers gathered under the fig trees (“and fully inebriated state. what colourful characters they were – some There is no question that racing in Queens- great, some average”) into the technological age. land, and racing in regional Queensland “I started out as a barrier hand,” Barbagallo more specifically, suffered towards the end of the recalls. “I graduated to photo finish with judge last century as life drained out of small Queens- Harry Schultz and later to the PA system with land towns. Kevin Benvenuti and later to TV and monitors Successive state governments came up with with Peter Murphy, both who gave their time to support packages. One, in late 2017, when the me freely.’’ Palaszczuk government underlined its support of Barbagallo confirms the Fashions on the Field country racing with a four-year, $70m cash injec- played a crucial role in bringing a new identity to tion labelled The Country Racing Program, has the club. But then so did his own coup which was had positive impacts. to convince the Burdekin Rugby Club to get on One of those is the hugely successful Battle of board in the early 2000s which they did, the the Bush series, which allows regional trainers young footy players turning out for the day in to pit their horses against each other as they formal wear to both outdo, and woo, the ladies. aim for the big prize in the final at Eagle Farm “I have had a wonderful journey with this in Brisbane. club,” he says. The Labor government also got a big thumbs up from the industry in its latest June 15 budget Horse racing has threaded its way through where it announced the renewal of the Country Queensland history long before 20th century Racing Program, providing $35.2m over the next culturally diverse tapestry, still evident in the with wagging finger, that no journalist of what happens happens because the commun- SAFE BET: There are fits, with more than 2000 jobs in rural and re- great races around North greats such as Toowoomba’s Bernborough and two years in prize money. names, accents and architecture of the district. should ever think of writing about Growers Day ity is 100 per cent behind it.” Queensland, but the gional Queensland depending on racing,” the “Goondiwindi Grey’’ Gunsynd captured na- With 128 racing clubs around the state, the in- The descendants of Italians who immigrated without making it abundantly clear to readers For Annabel Falco, the Home Hill-born Burdekin Growers Race Grace says. tional attention. dustry’s peak body, Racing Queensland, can to North Queensland to work in the sugar indus- that the event succeeds only because this tight- Qweekend fashion editor, who now calls Bris- Day at Home Hill is “Like many Queenslanders I love a country It was July 17, 1843, 20 years after John Oxley identify exactly 62 clubs which recognise their try before Benito Mussolini got in league with ly woven community is determined to make bane home and who flew up to be a judge of considered by many to race meeting and I’m looking forward to getting be something special; sailed up the Brisbane River and began the Euro- own local cup day as the key social event for the Adolf Hitler and put every Italian Australian it succeed. Fashions on the Field, Growers Day is some- Fashions on the Field to more race days this year.” pean settlement of the state, that the first hand- year. (deeply unfairly) under suspicion of sedition dur- “I am not talking to you unless you make it thing she is deeply proud of. (Haley Akerman was One option for the years ahead, for those look- ful of Queensland nags flew out of the starting Racing Queensland chief executive officer ing World War II, will tell you the highly inte- clear that this is a community event that runs on Not that she has sweet childhood memories Contemporary Lady ing for that authentic Queensland experience, is gates at Coopers Plains. Brendan Parnell says racing continues to con- grated sugar growing communities of the volunteers,” he declares. of a race day that does not allow anyone under runner-up) is a big part of to head to the Burdekin Growers Day to watch its triumph. In the years following, it was the race club, nect communities right across the state and the north didn’t evolve effortlessly into one big “Those boxes of fruit and vegetables that the age of 18 past the gates. Pictures: Mark Cranitch the Burdekin cup, which next year is on May 21. along with the church, the pub and the annual Burdekin’s Growers Day has emerged over the happy family. everyone is allowed to take home after the races But she has long seen Fashions on the Field, Its success over the past two decades ensures agricultural show which formed the core of com- past few decades as the perfect example of the Some of their parents and grandparents were are provided by local growers. which are so much part of the day’s success, as the likelihood of it continuing for decades more. munity life, both in the capital Brisbane and unifying aspects of what was once known as “the locked up in internment camps in the early 1940s “People put in hours at meetings and admin a testament to the creativity that the district is This year’s cup was won by what many lo- across the growing communities dotting this de- sport of kings”. and, even after the war, occasional bouts of big- work during the year then come in here a few capable of. cals saw as the sentimental favourite, Rebel centralised state. “It’s part of our social fabric and the Burdekin otry and racism, which are a part of every human days before the races start and help set up. “A lot of these women can come up with crea- Lake, which just happened to be owned by club Greg Hallam, long-time boss of the Local Growers Day is a great example of the way it PIONEERS: From top: hive, found targets in Italian and southern Euro- “They work hard and they make this happen!” tions that are just sensational, and a lot of them president Rick Gudge and wife Leanne along former Burdekin Race Club Government Association of Queensland and in- plays such an important role in connecting com- president Charlie pean immigrants. Russ Reguson, a legendary bookmaker who are actually made by themselves,” Falco says. with locals Ron Scott and Jeremy Caspanello. timately acquainted with Queensland regional munities right across Queensland,” Parnell says. Barbagallo, left, and But the Burdekin, along with other northern has been swinging the bag around North “I know of one case where 18 months of work For Leanne, who says she and her husband life, has always noted the power of the regional Home Hill and the wider Burdekin commun- marketing genius Henry sugar growing communities such as Mackay, Queensland race tracks since he got his licence went into a design. had been trying to win the cup for more than a race club. ity, taking in Ayr and Brandon to the north of Petersen; bookie Russ Ingham and Innisfail, still provides the textbook in 1966, won’t cavil with big Robbie Woods. “A lot of the style is what you might call con- decade, it was a magnificent day, and one she is Reguson with a punter; “It was so often at the races where things were Home Hill as well as a host of tiny towns and Burdekin Race Club example of how stunningly successful Australia’s Reguson doesn’t live in Home Hill but always servative, and some creations are just stunning.” proud to have played a part in. decided, where the deals were done,” he says. hamlets like Millaroo and Clare, is one of Aus- president Ricky Gudge. immigration program can be. The genial Woods feels obligated to put in a few hours himself set- State Racing Minister Grace Grace, who “People come in and do these jobs, like club Birdsville provides one of the few annual race tralia’s more picturesque communities, the dis- Pictures: Mark Cranitch jokes about his Italian neighbours going back to ting up his stand on the big day. backed a winner or two at the Barcaldine Tree secretary or club president or whatever, then carnivals which could, along with the Melbourne trict’s green cane fields flanked by the slightly visit the folks in the ancestral Italian village and “I got here five days ago,” he says with a grin of Knowledge Festival Cup last May, says leave for a few years and then you find that they Cup, legitimately lay claim to the word “iconic”. more arid regions of Bowen to the south and seeing the names of what they have come to re- as he takes a couple of “pineapples” ($50 notes) Queensland has a great strength in its regional come right back into it,” she says. Ever since then-prime minister Malcolm Fra- Townsville to the north. gard as “good ol’ Burdekin families” festooned from another hopeful punter. race meetings. “I do it because I love racing and I love the ser turned up for the 1978 Birdsville Cup, images This is an area of Australia which hardly over local businesses. “There are great races around North Queens- The practical results of ongoing government community, and I think it is the community that of the outback race meeting with its Fred Brophy needs instruction on how to bind its people to- Those Italian names are now Australian land – just look at the Cairns Amateurs (the funding can be found in places such as Charle- we are all thinking about when we do this sort boxing tent and crowded Birdsville Pub front bar gether in a community of purpose. names, and the people who own them have been Cairns racing carnival from September 9-11) as ville where the Central Warrego Race Club of work. have provided a form of shorthand for a rugged, Decades before 1970s Immigration Minister instrumental in building the modern communi- one example,” he says. has spent more than $400,000 upgrading “We give to the community, the community outback nationalism. Al Grassby was spouting the wonders of multi- ties which make Queensland the hugely success- “But there is just something great about this the course making it one of the TAB Battle of give back to us.” ■ Even if that national identity has not translat- culturalism, the Burdekin was weaving its own ful state it is. Woods warns sternly, complete race meeting, and it’s probably because so much The Bush qualifiers. “There are economic bene- For more information visit racingqueensland.com.au

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with wagging finger, that no journalist of what happens happens because the commun- SAFE BET: There are fits, with more than 2000 jobs in rural and re- great races around North should ever think of writing about Growers Day ity is 100 per cent behind it.” Queensland, but the gional Queensland depending on racing,” without making it abundantly clear to readers For Annabel Falco, the Home Hill-born Burdekin Growers Race Grace says. that the event succeeds only because this tight- Qweekend fashion editor, who now calls Bris- Day at Home Hill is “Like many Queenslanders I love a country ly woven community is determined to make bane home and who flew up to be a judge of considered by many to race meeting and I’m looking forward to getting be something special; it succeed. Fashions on the Field, Growers Day is some- Fashions on the Field to more race days this year.” “I am not talking to you unless you make it thing she is deeply proud of. (Haley Akerman was One option for the years ahead, for those look- clear that this is a community event that runs on Not that she has sweet childhood memories Contemporary Lady ing for that authentic Queensland experience, is volunteers,” he declares. of a race day that does not allow anyone under runner-up) is a big part of to head to the Burdekin Growers Day to watch its triumph. “Those boxes of fruit and vegetables that the age of 18 past the gates. Pictures: Mark Cranitch the Burdekin cup, which next year is on May 21. everyone is allowed to take home after the races But she has long seen Fashions on the Field, Its success over the past two decades ensures are provided by local growers. which are so much part of the day’s success, as the likelihood of it continuing for decades more. “People put in hours at meetings and admin a testament to the creativity that the district is This year’s cup was won by what many lo- work during the year then come in here a few capable of. cals saw as the sentimental favourite, Rebel days before the races start and help set up. “A lot of these women can come up with crea- Lake, which just happened to be owned by club “They work hard and they make this happen!” tions that are just sensational, and a lot of them president Rick Gudge and wife Leanne along Russ Reguson, a legendary bookmaker who are actually made by themselves,” Falco says. with locals Ron Scott and Jeremy Caspanello. has been swinging the bag around North “I know of one case where 18 months of work For Leanne, who says she and her husband Queensland race tracks since he got his licence went into a design. had been trying to win the cup for more than a in 1966, won’t cavil with big Robbie Woods. “A lot of the style is what you might call con- decade, it was a magnificent day, and one she is Reguson doesn’t live in Home Hill but always servative, and some creations are just stunning.” proud to have played a part in. feels obligated to put in a few hours himself set- State Racing Minister Grace Grace, who “People come in and do these jobs, like club ting up his stand on the big day. backed a winner or two at the Barcaldine Tree secretary or club president or whatever, then “I got here five days ago,” he says with a grin of Knowledge Festival Cup last May, says leave for a few years and then you find that they as he takes a couple of “pineapples” ($50 notes) Queensland has a great strength in its regional come right back into it,” she says. from another hopeful punter. race meetings. “I do it because I love racing and I love the “There are great races around North Queens- The practical results of ongoing government community, and I think it is the community that land – just look at the Cairns Amateurs (the funding can be found in places such as Charle- we are all thinking about when we do this sort Cairns racing carnival from September 9-11) as ville where the Central Warrego Race Club of work. one example,” he says. has spent more than $400,000 upgrading “We give to the community, the community “But there is just something great about this the course making it one of the TAB Battle of give back to us.” ■ race meeting, and it’s probably because so much The Bush qualifiers. “There are economic bene- For more information visit racingqueensland.com.au

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Story MICHAEL MADIGAN

country race meeting has an “Across Queensland, there are 62 towns each SOCIAL HIGHLIGHT: The readily accessible to Brisbane residents looking Birdsville Cup has been atmosphere all its own and if year who host a race day as the highlight for that going since 1882; Mamselle for a day trip, is scheduled for September 25 at you are willing to travel there community’s social calendar, showcasing every- Corday ridden by Les Tilley the Toowoomba Racecourse, the 2000m race are scores to choose from to thing that is great about local food, fashion and winning the Triple M boasting an impressive prize pool of $125,000. experience a slice of regional on-course entertainment.” Rockhampton Cup in 2019; Westward, look to the Mount Isa Cup which Lina Osterman with Cairns Queensland life. Birdsville is tipped to go ahead as normal on racehorse Taveuni; winner is usually held in June and attracts huge interest The now famous TAB Bat- September 3-4 this year with organisers expect- Alward ridden by Luke from western towns including Cloncurry, and tle of the Bush, which culminated in winners ing healthy crowds as the lockdowns sharpen the Dittman at last year’s features patrons who still represent the tradi- Afrom 13 regional centres clashing at the appetite for domestic travel. But the choice of Toowoomba Cup. tions of the great north west. $200,000 final at Eagle Farm last weekend has race meetings which are pretty much guaranteed And there are so many more, right down the injected renewed life into regional racing. to put on a good show is extraordinary, ranging coast from Townsville’s Cluden Park through to Yet the tradition that the Battle of the Bush well beyond Birdsville. Mackay’s historic Ooralea Racecourse and on to builds upon has been long established, reaching The week after Birdsville is the Cairns Ama- the Caloundra Cup at Corbould Park. back well before those 150 graziers and ringers teurs which run from September 9-11. Cup day brings out the best in a region and gathered together in the Spring of 1882 on the Now one of Australia’s premier spring horse its people as all involved arrive with one inten- South Australian and Queensland border for the racing carnivals, the Cairns Amateurs combines tion – to enjoy good food, admire one another’s first unofficial Birdsville Cup. a metropolitan sophistication with country fashion sense, have a few drinks, listen to some Racing Queensland CEO Brendan Parnell warmth in a skilfully managed event which live music and revel in each other’s company says Cup Day is often also “Carnival Day’’ for has taken on an identity all its own since it while taking in the thrill of one of the oldest many of our regional communities. began in 1959. The Toowoomba Cup, which is sports on the planet.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JULY 9 Rockhampton Newmarket showpiece events on the Northern Downs The Northern Queensland Winter Racing calendar, with the $30,000 feature race the Carnival officially commences this July with highlight at Bunya Park. the 1200m Rockhampton Newmarket, where SEPTEMBER 24 Ewan Cup ‘Wizard of the West’ William Pike will make The Ewan Turf Club is proud to honour the the trip east to ride. true spirit of country racing by conducting its JULY 10 Rockhampton Cup annual two-day race meeting on the banks of The two-day Rockhampton Winter Racing Stockyard Creek in North Queensland with Carnival culminates in the $150,000 1600m the Ewan Cup doubling as a Country Cups Rockhampton Cup. Challenge qualifier. JULY 16 Mackay Newmarket SEPTEMBER 25 Toowoomba Cup/ The winter carnival continues north to Weetwood Handicap Mackay for the Club’s premier sprint feature, Toowoomba’s flagship race day features both the Mackay Newmarket over 1300m. the time-honoured Weetwood Handicap and JULY 24 Mackay Cup the Toowoomba Cup, coinciding with the The second of the four major northern cups city’s annual Carnival of Flowers festival – comes in the shape of the 2000m Mackay making it one of the showpieces of the Cup feature, which headlines the club’s Queensland Spring Carnival. Mackay Cup Carnival Race Day. OCTOBER 8 Cloncurry Cup (Cloncurry & DRC) AUGUST 7 Townsville Cup/ The Cloncurry & District Race Club have been Cleveland Bay Handicap racing since the 1880s, and are one of the Townsville’s biggest race day of the year will most successful race clubs in the north-west, set Cluden Park alight, with both the with the annual Cloncurry Cup a highlight of $150,000 Townsville Cup and $100,000 the region’s social calendar. Cleveland Bay taking centrestage. OCTOBER 9 Emerald 100 race day AUGUST 12 Mount Isa Rodeo The Emerald 100 is one of the biggest race The Mount Isa Rodeo is the largest annual days in the Central Highlands, attracting rodeo event in the Southern Hemisphere, and crowds of more than 3000 people to the coincides with the Mount Isa Race Club’s Emerald Jockey Club. feature meeting as a part of the festivities. OCTOBER 9 Warwick Cup AUGUST 14 Banana Day (Innisfail) The Warwick Cup is now firmly branded as The Innisfail Turf Club’s Banana Race Day one of regional Queensland’s richest and hosts the region’s banana growers, packers most respected race meets and has become a and transporters among others to celebrate must attend event on the Queensland their contribution to the town. regional racing calendar. AUGUST 21 Cairns Newmarket NOVEMBER 2 Charleville Cup The 1400m Cairns Newmarket will look to (Central Warrego RC) once again catapult the career of this year’s The Charleville Cup Day – held on Melbourne winner, following Queensland cult hero Cup Day – is the culmination of a four-day The Harrovian’s stirring triumph in 2020. festival of food, fun and fashion, and finishes AUGUST 21 Gympie Muster with horse racing at its finest in country The town of Gympie will be in the spotlight Queensland. this August with its annual Gympie Muster NOVEMBER 6 Cooktown Cup Race Day setting the scene for one of Cooktown is the state’s second oldest turf Australia’s original camping and music club, with this year’s annual Cooktown Cup festivals, the Gympie Music Muster. the 147th year of the $60,000 meeting. AUGUST 28 Cairns Cup NOVEMBER 20 Roma Cup The Cairns Cup Carnival is a headline event The Roma Cup is the centrepiece of the Roma on the social calendar and a major highlight Turf Club’s calendar, as thousands head west for the local racing industry, headlined by the to Bassett Park for one of the state’s most $150,000 feature Cairns Cup. memorable racing carnivals on the dirt track. SEPTEMBER 3-4 Birdsville Races/ DECEMBER 4 Country Cups Challenge/ Birdsville Cup Country Stampede Final (Doomben) The Birdsville Races is one of Queensland’s The TAB Country Cups Challenge and Country quintessential country experiences, first held Stampede sees some of the state’s best in 1882 and now celebrated over two days in country gallopers come together to race at the heart of country Queensland with more Doomben in December via a qualification than 6000 there to watch the action. series across the state. SEPTEMBER 10-11 Cairns Amateurs/ DECEMBER 18 Chinchilla Cup Cairns Amateurs Cup The Chinchilla Cup Race Day returns for The Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival is one of the second time in 2021 as one of the the highlights on the Queensland racing town’s racing and social highlights after calendar with three days of fun, fashion, weather forced last year’s feature race to glamour, food and entertainment built be abandoned. around the on-course action at Cannon Park. SEPTEMBER 18 Dalby Cup (Dalby & NDJC) For more information on regional racing and The TAB Dalby Cup Race Day is one of the ticketing, visit racingqueensland.com.au

V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 09 Gracyn Dee Lanie at Cairns Cup Day. Picture: Stewart McLean

ON FASHIONS THE FIELD Race days in country Queensland are the highlight of a community’s social calendar. Dapper men, glamorous women and, in some towns, gorgeous kids, compete for prizes, cash and the glory of being the best dressed on the day

Billie Carmichael and Jake Healy, Best Sandals, sunnies and hats are in vogue for the junior girls category of Fashions on the Field at the Townsville Cup Fashions on the Field entrants. Dressed Couple at the Townsville Cup, Cloncurry Meet and Greet Races on March 20 this year. Picture: Eloise Moir Picture: Evan Morgan August 14, last year. Picture: Evan Morgan

10 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW RACING IN THE REGIONS

Contenders for best dressed two-year-old couple, Bryce Scoble and Pippa Calverd, at the Cloncurry Cheryle-Lee Beaton, Best Dressed at the Classic Lady winner Tayla Waters, Townsville Meet and Greet Races in March. Picture: Eloise Moir Ipswich Cup last month. Picture: Franca Tigani last August. Picture: Evan Morgan

Chantal and Josh Jones, Best Couple runners- Cloncurry Meet and Greet Races contestant Lady of the Day second runner-up Louise Zappala, winner Stacie Galleano, first runner-up Jordan up at the Warwick Picnic Races on June 19. Emily Baretta. Picture: Eloise Moir Beard at Cairns Cup Day in August last year. Picture: Stewart McLean

Cloncurry youth girls winner and Laura Ridley (3rd), Amber Voss (2nd), Teen ladies winner Sophie Cockrem and runner-up Emily Bensilum at Mareeba Turf runner-up Brielle Dodd and Lucy Daniels. and Nicole Restelli (1st) at the Mackay Club Race Day, on April 3. Picture: Stewart McLean Picture: Eloise Moir Cup last July. Picture: Lee Constable

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RACING IN THE REGIONS Track 14 side 13 Stylist ANNABEL FALCO

reak out your winter best and dress up for a day at the Winter Racing Carnival, where fabulous fashions and fast fillies will satisfy all. When it Bcomes to a dress code, opt for bright colours 12 and patterns which will capture attention both on and off the track. A bold suit or maxi dress is the perfect start, then layer with an intricate blazer or faux fur shawl. Stick to formal dress codes with comfy but stylish closed-in shoes, then accessorise with a statement bag, belt or shoe. Last, but certainly not least, headwear must take the form of a 70s bucket hat, headband or clip for a final, competition- winning touch. @annabelfalco 11

3 Paco Rabanne dress, POA; Paco Rabanne printed cotton-canvas leather tote, $830; Arizona Love shoes, POA; (Right) Odile Jacobs dress, POA; Fendi square-framed acetate sunglasses, $374; Gianvito Rossi Ribbon Beach Club leather espadrille sandals, $1,100, net-a-porter.com 10 4 8 1 5

6 9

1. Floral embroidered tiered maxi dress, $240, asos.com 2. Hair claw in blue with diamante, $30, asos.com 3. Sophie Buhai + NET SUSTAIN Roman gold vermeil necklace, $1392.36, net-a-porter.com 4. Balmain button-embellished pointelle-knit mini dress, $1629.58, net-a-porter.com 5. Visage bag, $1200, lucyfolk.com 6. Ric Rac leather headband, $250, zimmermannwear.com 7. Hochi Bloodstone leather stiletto heel pumps, $200, wittner.com 8. Golden Fields long-sleeved maxi dress, $500, becandbridge.com.au 9. Clique Beech Nappa ankle boots, $279.95, tonybianco.com 10. Modest shirred bodice maxi dress in yellow, $62, asos.com 11. Green knitted cross-body bag, $56, asos.com 12. Fleur Du Mal, $649, rebeccavallance.com 13. Polarised Ab Gold, $110, localsupply.com 14. Reversible frayed bucket hat, $160, zimmermannwear.com

12 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW

ORDINARY PEOPLE Entertainment, Arts, Travel, Books, Fashion, Food, Wine, Quiz industry and skilled in marketing) who I still think of as just one of the most fascinating human beings that I have ever PLATE CLASS AISLE SAY met, just a great ideas sort of person, a RACING creative and interesting person. IN THE Native produce Postponing their Henry asked me to join the then Home REGIONS Hill Racing Club, and I did. stars in a new big day led to Jan Eventually I agreed to partner Henry degustation a new highlight on this idea of creating the Burdekin Race Club. We got help from Ron Sparrow who Page 21 Page 28 was a local newspaper executive and without him none of what happened would have happened. Davies Local journalist Shane Watson also did countless editorials and promotions and educated the public about this proposal to create this great race day. We started doing these promotions for the racing club, like drawing tickets out of a barrel where the winner got a $1000 betting voucher, we called it “Super Bets’’. Few people could grasp the concept, I think because $1000 was such a large amount of money, so we broke it down to $100 bets. We really improved prizes for the Fashions on the Field competition as well which was really important in getting this new version of the racing club off the ground. And I remember around 2003 or 2004 I could just see we were on this real winner as the crowds started turning up for the big Growers Day and the Burdekin Cup. We could raise up to $60,000 in prizes and cash, and give away $15,000 in free bets, and fruit and veg growers were donating boxes of fruit and The reason veg that punters could take home for free and it is so successful people from other race clubs were starting to is that the turn up and see what we community got were doing, and actually copying us. behind it I think it was in 2000 we won the Australia Day Burdekin Community Event PICTURE: MARK CRANITCH of the Year. Then we won Best North Queensland Newspaper Promotion, then a North Queensland Media Tourism Award for Chandlers which had stores in Brisbane the race day. Burdekin Growers Race Day organiser, and right throughout the regions then and People were sitting up and taking 65, Home Hill they were a big company. notice. I had various positions at the I was approached to work at the TAB in racing club including vice president from Interview MICHAEL MADIGAN Ayr (neighbouring town) and I liked it. 2013 to 2015. Later I actually got my own TAB in I had a good supportive family and a partnership with a good friend who had work support team, they did whatever I was born in Hobart, Tasmania, to a corner store in Hobart where we worked also worked at Chandlers at Ayr and we asked them to do. racing family. Dad had a lot of seven days a week and we really made a both enjoyed it very much. The Growers Race Day and Burdekin greyhounds and trotters. good go of it. We worked hard but it was also great Cup is just so successful now it just I went to school there and left at I went on a holiday on a cruise ship and, fun because of the customers I suppose. exceeded all our expectations and we get age 16. bingo, met my husband Torrie Davies who I loved talking to the punters and positive feedback from everywhere. Country & western II did shorthand and typing in a business happened to live in the Burdekin at Home struck up great friendships with them that The reason it is so successful is that the school, or what we might call a technical Hill. His family owned an engineering last even to this day. community got behind it. college or TAFE, and then I moved into works that created all sorts of equipment, If you show that you have time to chat I still love racing. Tourists are flocking to the Outback to enjoy new attractions and old-style charm. real estate and valuations. some for local farmers. and you are interested in them and you I have shares in 10 horses trained by I actually got a job as a personal We got married in 1980 and set up get to know their families they will Steve Potiris in Innisfail. Page 22 assistant to the chairman, or president, of home in Home Hill and, well, what can I respond well to you. But what is so rewarding to me is what was then the national association say, the child rearing started and we had People would bring in pikelets and having played a role in creating an event representing real estate valuers and that three kids, Gavin, now 40, Brooke, 37, and scones. It was a great place to work. which has been so successful and so was an extremely interesting job. Ryan, 32. Then I met Henry Petersen (a local, important to our town of Home Hill, and

I went into business with Mum in a But I worked in retail, working for now aged 70, prominent in the mango to our district of the Burdekin. PICTURE: NIGEL HALLETT

14 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 15 Entertainment, Arts, Travel, Books, Fashion, Food, Wine, Quiz

PLATE CLASS AISLE SAY Native produce Postponing their stars in a new big day led to degustation a new highlight Page 21 Page 28

Country & western Tourists are flocking to the Outback to enjoy new attractions and old-style charm.

Page 22 PICTURE: NIGEL HALLETT

V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 15 ARTS

TIMELESS: Sophie Salvesani, left, plays Maria in Westside Story; Salvesani with Todd Jacobsson (Tony) in Melbourne; inset, Joey McKneely. Pictures: Liam Kidston, Jeff Busby

and has been performed regularly since. Inspired by William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet it is set in the mid 1950s in the Upper West Side of New York City and it explores the rivalry between two gangs – The Jets, a white gang, and the Sharks, Puerto Ricans. “It’s still timely because racism and immigration are still issues particularly in the US,” McKneely says. “There are lessons to be learnt from this musical and I think every generation needs to see it.” Of course it includes some great songs … Maria, Tonight, America and I Feel Pretty which is sung by leading lady, young opera singer Sophie Salvesani from Brisbane who plays Maria. Nigel Huckle plays her love interest West Side Story Tony and the cast is impressive and includes a few more Queenslanders – Jade Coutts, Grace Driscoll, Sebastien Golenko and Jake O’Brien. Salvesani, 26, is a rising star. She still works as for the ages a relief teacher around southeast Queensland between gigs and that keeps her feet on the ground. An exciting new Opera Australia production of the hit But there’s no doubt she’s a star and Joey McKneely describes her as “a dream”. musical is faithfully using original choreography “Sophie came to me so green and inexperienced and had never done anything like Story PHIL BROWN this before,” he says. “It was wonderful to see her blossom. She has such an emotional impact as a performer and … that voice.” hen you’re dealing with the the tour finale. He did his obligatory quarantine Salvesani has already played Maria on stage choreography for one of the before hitting rehearsals in Sydney. in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, greatest musicals of all time When we chat he’s just about to launch into New Zealand and even in Germany in 2019. you tread carefully. Pardon the an afternoon session with his talented cast. There are “I love it and it’s the first show I ever did Wpun. Joey McKneely was a former pupil of He promises that though he may tweak the when I was at school at West Moreton Anglican Jerome Robbins, one of the original creators original dance moves he wants to stay true to lessons to be College,” she says. “It’s a challenging role and with Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Laurents the Jerome Robbins original. learnt … and there’s a huge emotional range. One minute and Stephen Sondheim. Talk about an “There has been a shift away from the Maria is singing I Feel Pretty and the next she’s awesome foursome. original choreography in some productions,” I think every sobbing. The final scene is quite devastating.” McKneely came to Australia from his home McKneely says. “Personally I feel like you lose She says many of her pupils don’t know she’s in New York to direct Opera Australia’s version something if you don’t use the original generation a star. “Sometimes the kids will catch me singing of his acclaimed production of this classic. The choreography. For me the integrity of the in the classroom at lunchtime,” she says. show got halfway through its tour and then the choreography comes first. I always do it a needs to “They wonder what I am doing and why I am pandemic hit. Now they are picking up where little more heightened in the ballet sense but I see it doing it. The teachers tend to be the ones who they left off with a tour to Perth before the show try to have a cohesiveness that respects the tell everyone what I am doing.” comes to Brisbane next month. original work.” West Side Story, July 23 to August 22, Lyric Theatre, And McKneely is back preparing the cast for West Side Story was a Broadway hit in 1957 QPAC, tickets from $59.95. qpac.com.au

16 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW ARTS Phil Brown CULTURE CLUB

Watch White Pearl Queensland Theatre This racy satire is set in a toxic workplace, a Singapore-based cosmetics firm that promotes skin-whitening product. The company makes an ad that goes viral for its racist tropes and therein lies the comedy and satire. At Billie Brown Theatre until July 10.

Read Who Gets To Be Smart Bri Lee, Allen & Unwin, $30 In this provocative book, Bri Lee asks some challenging questions about the education system, who it benefits, and who it excludes. Lee’s questions about the skills and smarts we value provoke thought. An unsettling read.

Watch RHYTHM: Brazilian Bossa Nova composer and musician Antonio Carlos Jobim, singer/songwriter Joao Gilberto, and legendary Frank Sinatra. Bloodlands SBS James Nesbitt stars married to Joao Gilberto) became an as DCI Tom Brannick “Bossa Nova feels a bit retro international hit in 1964. This was in this intriguing crime shortened from the version on the drama miniseries set in but I like retro. This sort of album Getz/Gilberto which I also Northern Ireland. A kidnapping have and which you should get if you immediately throws up links to are interested. disappearances a couple of decades music is not intrusive …” I know some people may consider earlier during the Troubles and the The Girl from Ipanema elevator music connection is personal for Brannick. but I disagree. Maybe its popularity works against it. It is apparently believed very now and then I go down My Bossa Nova reboot began when I to be the second most recorded pop song Read a rabbit hole in my reading or dug out an old favourite that I already after Yesterday by The Beatles. How to Have music habits. My reading had, Stan Getz Plays Jobim: The Girl Amazingly, Astrud Gilberto had never Meaningful habit rabbit hole of recent from Ipanema. sung professionally before she did this Relationships times has been Ancient Getz, an American jazz maestro who song and there are various stories about Emma Power China.E I’m fascinated with pre-Han plays a mean saxophone, was the how she accidentally became a cult figure Hardie Grant Books, $20 Dynasty China and have a pile of books foremost interpreter of that distinctive in Bossa Nova. One version is that her From the Survive the on the subject by my bed. mix of Brazilian rhythm and cool jazz husband couldn’t sing in English so she Modern World series of “how to” I know China is unfashionable at the known as Bossa Nova. was drafted to do it. guides this 140-page pocket guide moment but there you have it. Love that recording because it is just She went on to become a popular boils down the essentials for those My musical rabbit hole of late is Bossa so cool and mellow. singer and I recently got an album of wanting help with building healthy, Nova. I love the cool sounds of Bossa Bossa Nova came out of Rio de Janiera her music and it’s terrific. She’s like a happy and sustainable relationships. Nova and am piling up the CDs. Yes, I in the late 1950s and was a soft samba cross between Dusty Springfield and know, CDs are unfashionable too but I based on traditional Brazilian music and Blossom Dearie. still buy them. jazz with evocative Portuguese lyrics. She does sing in English but also in Watch I came to Bossa Nova via Frank The twin figureheads of this music Portuguese which is the language spoken The Unusual Sinatra. We’d been listening to a lot of form are Antonio Carlos Jobim and Joao by Brazilians of course. It’s a very Suspects Sinatra in recent years inspired by Gilberto. I’ve been listening to both of romantic language I think and to hear SBS TV Tyrone Noonan’s Sinatra jazz shows. them recently. her and her husband and Jobim singing is A gritty, funny heist Then I got an album featuring Sinatra I guess the first we all heard of Bossa a real treat. They’ve all been on high drama with shady and the great Brazilian Bossa Nova Nova was that classic song The Girl from rotation at our place recently. deals and illicit affairs set composer and musician Antonio Ipanema which was written in 1962 by Bossa Nova feels a bit retro but I like in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Carlos Jobim. Coincidentally, Noonan Jobim and Vinicius de Moraes. retro. This sort of music is not intrusive Everyone is under suspicion when a played a Jobim song at a recent gig we There were various recordings of it and that’s one of the things I love about it. necklace is stolen from the home of went to at the Prince Consort hotel in and the Stan Getz version featuring the And hey, if Cranky Frankie liked it … well Filipina businesswoman Roxanne Fortitude Valley. vocal debut of Astrud Gilberto (who was that’s good enough for me. Waters (Michelle Vergara Moore).

V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 17 RELATIONSHIPS

This creative couple met on Instagram with the intention to start a band. Instead they launched an events business, a food truck You & Me and purchased their dream property in the Scenic Rim.

Kate Creasey, 30 Olive View Estate owner, Scenic Rim Matthew Whalley, 30 Olive View Estate owner, Scenic Rim He’s everyone’s go-to man for advice, How did you meet? Kate: We met on Instagram and I said fixing things and “Hey! I see you play guitar – do you want to just a good chat start a band? I play bass and sing.” The band thing still has never happened. Matt was a mechanic in Brisbane and worked long hours for little money and we didn’t get to see each other as much as we would have liked. About six months later we started an events business called The Design Collective and we started producing artisan creative markets on the Gold Coast which developed into a travelling food truck business and we pop up in various locations between Grafton and Hervey Bay. From day dot people thought we were already married but we were so fresh into our relationship and our business that we just must have had that instant connection of working together, and that shined through to others. Matt: We followed each other on Instagram being into the same subculture of cars and music. We tried to form a band with a few other friends. Turns out the band had no future but we did. We met at a big crossroads in my life. I had achieved everything I had wanted to with my previous career and was looking for a new change! So I up and moved to the Gold Coast to be with Kate and start our event business.

What was the first thing you noticed about each other? Kate: Kindness, humour and good posture. Matt: Her eyes, not just the look but you can see she has a million ideas formulating She’s super funny, always behind them. knows how to keep me What do you love about your life together? calm and laughing Kate: We bought our dream property

Olive View Estate in the Scenic Rim and PICTURE: RIVER HAZEL we get to work the hours we want to work and travel to destinations to run events and explore Australia together. Matt: Where do we even start? We have a leaves her time poor and stuck in a creative Matt: I admire pretty much everything Matt: The freedom of self employment and lot of directions that we are focusing on – mess, and very hungry (hangry) when she about Katie. She will literally go to any working together for our common goal. we are learning everything we can about forgets to eat! extent to help anyone and everyone, no We are in complete control of how hard we processing olives and creating artisan deli matter how busy we are … she will drop it work, what we do and when we do it. type items from our farm fresh produce. What do you admire in each other? all to help a stranger. Her empathy is Kate: I really love that everyone loves second to none. She’s also super funny, What is the next big project on the What drives you crazy about each other? Matt. He has the ability to befriend anyone always knows exactly how to keep me calm horizon for you both? Kate: Matt can be a bit of a stress head and in any situation because of his kindness and laughing no matter what. Kate: Building more accommodation at takes on a lot of physical work – he doesn’t and he’s everyone’s go-to man for advice, Olive View Estate – we have been so flat like to ask for help and when people do fixing things and just a good chat. Being Favourite thing to do as a couple? out with bookings that we are having 10 or help him he doesn’t know what to do. I’ve mechanically minded he has the ability to Kate: Eat! We have become passionate more people wanting to book the same found myself saying, ‘Mate, calm down just fix anything! He will try his hand at foodies since running food-related events dates. We want to be able to accommodate hey, take a chill pill’. We are always picking building anything and always succeeds. and we love trying all the new cafes. everyone so that they can experience the on each other – in a good way! I had an idea when we started our events Matt: Travelling and food, we spend all our beauty of this region and our stunning Matt: Kate has a huge work ethic, says yes business to make a mobile stage out of an time together and drive a lot of kilometres. olive grove. to all work available, which is amazing but old caravan, two weeks later he built one. Eat Local Week until July 4, eatlocalweek.com.au

18 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW CAFE Dig in to no-meat tucker A new cafe serves up plant-based meals that appeal to vegans and their meat-loving friends

Review ANOOSKA TUCKER-EVANS

hat was really good,” my meat- obsessed friend says, polishing off breakfast at recently opened Fortitude Valley eatery Little Digs. ‘T“Yeah, not bad for a vegan cafe, hey?” I reply. “What? There’s no way that was vegan!” he says, eyes wide in disbelief, unaware I’d brought him to a plant-based venue. Little Digs opened in April in the home of the once popular Mister Fitz ice creamery, a cherry tomatoes, cashews and corn in a citrusy waffle cone toss from Wickham St. The dressing laced with chilli that builds heat with brainchild of Gifty Langkapinth, Sam Berge and each bite. The tempeh, which can often be dry chef Prince Khamkaew, it delivers a whimsical and bland, is flavoured with cajun spices and hideaway for non-meat eaters – bright and retains its moisture delivering a tasty protein cheery with olive green VJ walls dressed with hit to the vibrant, colourful vegetable bowl. bright abstract artworks, exposed bulb lights Little Digs Delicious! and quirky, retro paraphernalia. It’s the type of Food Meanwhile the Croffle ($17.90) takes a vegan venue that would be right at home in Brisbane’s hhhkj croissant and stuffs it inside a waffle iron to West End rather than an industrial part of the create a ridged disc of crispy edges and soft Valley, but perhaps it’s the unexpected location Ambience pockets that will leave you scratching your head that is part of the charm. hhhhj as to how they made it so buttery without the A coffee machine greets guests as soon as Service use of actual butter. Crowned with two types of they walk in the door, and the brews are crafted UNEXPECTED: Little Digs’ quirky interior in dairy-free ice cream, caramelised banana, hhhkj Fortitude Valley, and above, the Croffle will please with great skill delivering hard-to-find any sweet-tooth. Pictures: Tara Croser shaved coconut, strawberries and berry coulis, creaminess and richness using plant-based Value it’s a dish to please sweet tooths – vegan or not. milks and Fonzie Abbott beans. hhhhj Service is friendly and obliging with staff There is also an array of vegan-friendly Overall barbecued jackfruit to a yellow curry with mock offering to create a bespoke drink for my friend, smoothies, juices, sodas, teas, iced drinks and hhhhj chicken, and lighter bites like mushroom and meals arriving at lightning speed – though lattes that diners can grab and go with one of “scallops” and five-spice spring rolls. the cafe was rather quiet during our visit. the venue’s takeaway salads displayed on the 15 Little St, Meals are delivered as they are ready and the Veganism is one of the fastest growing food counter. But to not dine in would be to miss out Fortitude Valley Tempting Tempeh ($18.90) hits the table first. trends in Australia and with cafes such as Little on chef Khamkaew’s Thai-leaning, creative way 3076 5436 It features a starfish of the sliced fermented Digs delivering plant-based dishes that can fool of celebrating veg in all its forms. littledigs.square.site soybean cake spread across a salad of even the most hardcore of carnivores, no doubt The menu runs from burritos packed with Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm cucumber, avocado, capsicum, peas, leaves, this meat-free way of eating will be here to stay.

WHAT’S NEW

Maxwell & Williams Panama plate Heartbreak pinot noir Olio bowl Porter reusable This rainforest-inspired Panama tableware Gin 2021 by Royal silicone bag series is grey and white This inaugural limited release Doulton For storing snacks, toned: white on dark gin from the Mornington Design duo ingredients and grey or dark grey on Peninsula distillery is for Edward Barber and leftovers, these one- white plus options in lovers of pinot noir and gin. It Jay Osgerby have collaborated with Royal litre bags are secure solid colours with a pairs with dishes traditionally Doulton to create a collection with dramatic yet easy to open and leafy imprint. 20cm matched with the grape simplicity. The white medium 25.5cm an eco-friendly. The grey and white side variety. Best served alongside serving bowl is crafted from durable Porter bag is made plate $7.95, roast lamb or duck a l’orange. porcelain with a glossy white glaze, the from microwave and oven-safe silicone, maxwelland $88, at Dan Murphy stores or base featuring an exposed ceramic detail which means food can be heated or cooked williams.com.au bassandflindersdistillery.com for contrast. $99.95, royaldoulton.com.au inside the bag. $19.95, until.com.au

V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 19 ASPARAGUS, PEA AND NEW POTATO FRITTATA From Food for the Soul Recipe LUCY LORD Quaff DES HOUGHTON

Look beyond winter shiraz

20 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW DINING ASPARAGUS, PEA AND NEW POTATO FRITTATA From Food for the Soul Recipe LUCY LORD Quaff DES HOUGHTON

SCANDI FLAVOURS: Elska’s interior; Watson’s leaping bonito, above; Marburg emu tartare. Look beyond Pictures: Mark Cranitch winter shiraz

Winter is here and the log fire is burning. A haunch of venison, or perhaps kangaroo is bubbling in the crockpot. Or maybe it’s a Moroccan chickpea stew. It doesn’t always have to be beef. And it doesn’t always have to be shiraz. I admire the Calabria family winemaking team who migrated from (you guessed it) Italy in dribs and drabs from 1927. First came founder Domenico Calabria, followed by son Francesco in 1929. By 1934 Francesco had saved enough to pay the fare for his wife, Elisabetta, to join him. Today, Bill Calabria is calling the shots as chief winemaker and MD. His team top of an enormous for-presentation-purposes- has unveiled five new vintage releases in only crab claw, and a pumpkin and rye cracker its Three Bridges range. Of course, there topped with crème fraiche and a roast pumpkin. is shiraz and cabernet but these 2019s Nordic The waiter rattles off the many components include the Barossa Valley grenache, a of each dish and it’s very hard to keep track. Barossa Valley mourvèdre, and a It seems best to just surrender to the experience. Riverina Durif (calabriawines.com). Next, choko comes off the back fence and into Three Bridges Riverina Durif 2019 Elska fine dining territory in the form of crunchy discs ($25) is a full-bodied wine with plum and adventure mounded over marron with a small Danish- blackberry and dark chocolate flavours. Food style pastry on the side topped with piped Three Bridge Barossa Valley hhhhj marron brain butter. Crocodile tail arrives in a Grenache ($35) opens with aromas of Unusual ingredients and techniques mark out this Ambience dumpling with mandarin ponzu. delicate florals. It’s a medium-bodied creative 15-course degustation hhhhj Some of the dishes are quirky and inventive example with savoury tannins and cherry Service rather than a taste sensation but particularly and spice flavours. Three Bridges Barossa hhhhj appealing was the emu tartare, the meat bound Valley Mourvèdre 2019 ($35) is a single Review ALISON WALSH with an emulsion of fermented sauce made from vineyard offering from vines planted in Value ground crickets and black garlic, seasoned with 1914. There is a whiff of lavender followed hhhkj horseradish, fermented shiso leaf and shallots by plum and cassis flavours. he menu reads like a naturalist’s space wasn’t right for fine dining and made the Overall and topped with puffed freekah, amaranth, emu Queensland’s Granite Belt provided checklist of Queensland’s must-see move to the Merthyr Rd site in February. hhhhj egg mayonnaise and cured emu egg yolk. plenty of alternative reds to match robust flora and fauna. Northern mangrove On a cold winter’s night we enter the made- Foraged mushrooms, Watson’s leaping bonito, meat dishes. A favourite is Tobin Wines crab? Yes. Crocodile? Indeed. Emu? over restaurant at 6pm for the first sitting, where Must try minced chicken on a skewer and Robbins Island Serves 6 Method: transfer the cooked vegetables to a Elliot Reserve Wines 2018 Merlot, a juicy, It’sT there too. There are also foraged white walls are adorned with hanging bouquets wagyu beef round out the savoury courses. Emu tartare Ingredients 1. Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C fan. casserole dish and pour the egg mixture harmonious blend of blackberry, plum mushrooms, heritage pumpkin and at times you of herbs and foliage, antlers and what appears to Desserts are a standout, with the Australian l 250g new potatoes, 2. Put the quartered potatoes into a over. and cocoa and a hint of graphite. ($59). will also find bull kelp, bunya nuts, kangaroo be elk skins. Round, blonde wood tables are left 148 Merthyr Road, citrus koldskal a concoction of buttermilk quartered saucepan of cold salted water and bring to 5. Sprinkle over the remaining grated Deeper pockets will appreciate a tail, native thyme and wild venison. uncovered but accessorised with a vase, a candle New Farm mousse, Danish almond biscuit, preserved l 100g asparagus tips the boil. Once boiling, cook for 5 minutes cheese and bake in the oven for 30-40 luxuriant right bank blend This deep dive into lesser-used local produce, and more antlers to build the Scandi aesthetic. elska.com.au cumquat curd, fresh fingerlime and desert lime, l 150g frozen peas until tender but still with some bite, then minutes. I like to put this under a very hot from South Australia’s combined with Nordic cooking techniques such Dinner is a 15-course set degustation ($135 per Open Thursday to mandarin granita and bergamot ice-cream. The l 1 tbsp olive oil add the asparagus tips and peas and cook grill for the last 2-3 minutes so it gets a nice Wrattonbully (between as fermentation, pickling and smoking, is on person) and there’s wine matching for $95 per Saturday for 6pm and “Elska crunchy” is a delicious confection of l 1 yellow onion, sliced for 1 more minute. Drain and set aside. bubbly crust. Remove from the oven or grill Padthaway and display at New Farm’s Elska, which takes its person, as well as a global wine list that focuses 8.30pm sittings. burnt honey mousse, using honey from the l 2 garlic cloves, finely 3. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick and allow to cool before removing from the Coonawarra). Tapanappa name from the Scandinavian word for love. on boutique wineries. Attractive Plumm Sunday 3pm and 6pm Boondall wetlands, fermented honey syrup, a chopped or grated frying pan over a medium-low heat and add frying pan or dish and 2015 Whalebone Vineyard The name seems appropriate as this is a labour- glassware enhances the experience. sittings chocolate honey crisp and a bitter chocolate l 2 handfuls of spinach the onion. Sauté until soft, then add the cutting into slices. Serve Merlot Cabernet Franc ($90) intensive passion project by Nathan and Freja The dinner is served across a two-hour sorbet. Wait there’s more: a slim slice of rhubarb l 8 eggs garlic and spinach and cook until the garnished with fresh is a complex wine replete Dunnell, with only 12 diners seated in the timeslot (to leave time to prep for a second tart then various petit fours including tiny apple l 80ml milk spinach has wilted. herbs. with dark fruit, florals and restaurant at a time. The couple, Freja has sitting at 8.30pm) and unfolds at rapid speed donuts round out the meal. l 80g Cheddar cheese, 4. Whisk the eggs, milk and half of the NOTE Keeps in the fridge spice. Stunning. Danish heritage and Nathan has experience at with the waiter and the sommelier delivering There’s so much going on, there’s so much to grated grated cheese in a large bowl. If you’re for up to 3 days. [email protected] fine diners such as Stokehouse Q, moved the each dish to diners pretty much at the same savour, that a two-hour timeslot feels like a bit l Fresh herbs, such as using an ovenproof frying pan – with a business from Wilston earlier this year, after time. First up there’s house-made blood sausage of a rush, although it’s all well-managed. parsley, mint or dill, to metal handle – pour the egg mixture over From Food for the Soul by originally running popular cafe Freja’s in the on a savoury wafer, a dumpling-like cylinder of This is one for the deep-pocketed garnish the vegetables and make sure the Lucy Lord, HarperCollins, Tobin Wines Elliot Reserve inner-northern suburb before changing it in to a smoked potato and northern mangrove crab adventurous eater looking to step beyond the l Salt vegetables are evenly distributed. If not, $30 Wines Merlot “juicy” 12-seat restaurant early last year. They felt the wrapped in pickled potato and clinging to the standard restaurant experience.

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Story JEREMY PIERCE New age gold rush Australians are heading west in droves, bringing fresh life to outback communities

BOOM: Previous page, visitor Kate Davidson enjoys an outback sunset; Longreach accommodation The Stables. This page, from top left, Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Longreach; the Australian Age of Dinosaurs museum is exciting for all ages; Winton’s Royal open-air theatre. Pictures: Nigel Hallett

Qantas, from the founders who met during BOOK IT NOW World War I through to the commercial air race that revolutionised modern travel. ● Qantas flies to Longreach The countryside … Also benefiting from a recent reno is the (qantas.com) while Alliance Airlines has Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and started monthly day-trip flights from blows the cliche of Outback Heritage Centre across the road. Brisbane to Winton A tribute to heroes of Aussie outback (allianceairlines.com.au) boring endless flats spirit, the centre has just unveiled a $15m ● The Stables, Longreach to smithereens cash splash with exhibits including a nod to (outbackpioneers.com.au) the brave and determined women who ● Australian Age of Dinosaurs helped to shape the bush. reservations in advance towns with claims to being “the birthplace The outdoor stockman’s show has (australianageofdinosaurs.com) of Qantas” so the Winton Club makes a been relocated to a new purpose-built ● Outback From Above helicopter quirky stop for aviation buffs. arena where spectators are spared the tours (eliteaviationservices.com.au) According to outback lore, Qantas was sun’s fiery glare. ● Go to outbackqueensland.com.au for conceived in Cloncurry, born in Winton A recreation of an Aussie bush pub has more information on other attractions and grew up in Longreach, which is where also been added, along with the chance to the most comprehensive tribute to try Fire Extinguisher Lager, a name o west.” It’s been a catch cry Queensland are enjoying record-breaking from Brisbane and demand has been Australia’s national carrier resides. inspired by claims that pouring a foaming, though it is unlikely anyone from that era for centuries. For visitor numbers. Grey nomads have long extraordinary. The first three sold out in The unofficial capital of the Outback, frothing can of beer over a car fire would ever enjoyed the comforts on offer here. adventurers chasing their made a beeline for the bush during the minutes, with Alliance hopeful of ramping Longreach has many of the region’s best quickly take care of the problem. Full of rustic charm (old ice boxes have fortune in America’s gold traditional winter tourist season, but they up the service next year. The countryside tourist attractions and accommodation There are plenty of other options in been converted into bedside reading tables, ‘Grush to Aussie pioneers enticed by the are now being joined on the roads by an around Winton blows the cliche of boring offerings (it also has an airport with daily town to wet your whistle, including while rough-sawn timber finishes are prospect of owning humungous properties increasing number of families and young endless flats to smithereens, with a number flights to Brisbane if that 15-hour drive to The Birdcage which, while lacking the coated with neem oil to ward off mozzies) stretching as far as the eye could see. couples who have had to forego the more of dramatic rock formations that make for the coast is giving you second thoughts grandeur of its Melbourne Cup VIP this is the place the Man from Snowy River Ironically, the phrase’s origins actually favoured trips to Hawaii, Fiji or Bali. stunning sunset photographs, particularly about the trip). namesake, does a mean ribs and always has wishes he could bed down for the night. had a much darker meaning in olden day It hasn’t hurt that so many attractions if you take a ride with Outback from Above On the outskirts of town next to the the big screens on for the footy. Outback Pioneer founder Richard England where to go west meant to die but, have recently unveiled stunning new helicopter tours. airport sits the Qantas Founders Museum – After a long day in the saddle, Kinnon says demand has so far been right now, Aussies heading west in droves experiences for visitors heading to Winton is also home to the Waltzing kind of hard to miss with the giant Boeing figuratively speaking at least, you’re now “incredible” as more and more travellers are finding an outback Queensland the Outback en masse like a great Matilda Centre (a new and improved 747 parked on the tarmac outside. spoiled for choice about where to rest your head west instead of overseas. tourism industry that has never been more wildebeest migration. offering opened in 2018 after the old one While it used to sit in the scorching weary bones in Longreach. “People are just blown away,” he says. alive. Drought and other economic factors In tiny Winton, population 800, the was relocated to the museum from a cattle that will fascinate the young and the was destroyed by fire three years earlier), outback sun, the 747 and several other While there are plenty of budget options “We’re getting so many people that may have crippled many outback excellent Australian Age of Dinosaurs station northwest of Winton. young at heart – and let’s face it, who a tribute to the beloved ballad of bush poet Qantas planes are now shaded by a giant and caravan parks, the Longreach hotel normally go overseas but now they’re communities, but the tourism trail has museum has just opened a multimillion- Once a muddy flat between a billabong doesn’t love dinosaurs? Banjo Paterson. Paterson wrote the shelter to make wandering around a scene has really come of age. having to look elsewhere and they are blossomed like the outback wildflowers dollar expansion including a night sky and a meandering river, the track-site But while even the most ardent of unofficial Aussie anthem while staying on a more pleasant experience during the heat The newest addition is The Stables from heading here instead. nourished by rare rain. stargazing centre and “March of the features footprints from a number of dinosaur buffs might baulk at the 15-hour sheep and cattle station in the district in of the day. the Kinnon family behind the Outback “We’ve got the odd room available here Fuelled by a rekindled romance of the Titanosaurs” exhibition housing a 54m long different species of dinosaurs, including drive from Brisbane, thankfully, this is far 1895. While many of the original exhibits That experience goes from pleasant to Pioneer outfit which runs a number of and there, but we’re pretty much booked bush and the simple fact that Aussies track-site of preserved dinosaur footprints some plant-eating sauropods among the from the only reason to visit an area rich in were destroyed in the blaze, the new spectacular if you stay back at night for the tours and experiences in and around town. solid through until October. have had to set their travelling sights a thought to be almost 100 million years old. largest animals to ever roam the Earth. Queensland history. interpretative centre is arguably the world’s new sound and light show. As the name suggests, walking through “It’s been incredible.” little closer to home during the The fossilised track, preserved in a bed The AAOD has grown from humble Alliance Airlines has started running greatest museum dedicated to a song. Featuring images beamed on to the side the front door of a room here is stepping The writer was a guest of Outback Tourism coronavirus pandemic, towns in outback of rocks weighing an estimated 300 tonnes, beginnings into a world class attraction monthly direct flight day trips to Winton Winton is also one of three outback of the 747, the show tells the history of into a scene straight out of the 1800s, Queensland Association

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V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 23 FEATURE

ill Edgar stands up, heart pump- wanted Edgar to ensure he would be buried ing, in a room full of strangers as with his Harley and that he wouldn’t take he steels himself to interrupt a fu- one tightly held secret to the grave. neral just as the deceased’s best “Now that I’m gone, I’ve got something mate starts delivering the eulogy. to tell you. As some of you might have “Excuse me, but I’m going to known deep down, or suspected: I was bi- need you to sit down, shut up or sexual. I was in love with a man, and that f--k off. The man in the box has a few things man stands amongst you,” the letter Bill Bto say,” he says, looking directly at a now was instructed to read at the funeral said. very nervous-looking man standing at the One person in attendance told him to lectern delivering the eulogy. “piss off” but was quickly overshadowed by It is 2018 and the first time Edgar has FUNERAL those wanting to hear the fallen mate’s last been paid to interrupt a funeral and deliver words. The bikie refused to reveal who his a few home truths from a now departed cli- lover was and said that was up to the man if ent, and he is as surprised as anyone that it’s he wanted to come forward himself. turned into a booming business with inter- The grave diggers were paid a couple of national notoriety. hundred dollars to make themselves scarce Growing up on the streets of Surfers after the funeral so the Harley could go in, Paradise, Edgar says there is no way he because burying a bike was illegal, and with could ever have imagined that one day he that his client’s last requests were fulfilled. would be signing a deal to have his life made into a Hollywood film, but that’s exactly A DIVERSE BUSINESS what has happened. Speaking on behalf of those who have died has become For a fair price – less than the $10k coffin Speaking from his home in the Gold confessor fee – Edgar will go to your home Coast hinterland, the self-described “coffin an unusual profession for Bill Edgar and is set to take this after your death and dispose of any embar- confessor” is busily preparing to head to the one-time crook all the way to Hollywood rassing items or hide things from greedy United States for a few months so he can relatives. He’s been asked to dismantle a sex film a new reality TV series based on his un- dungeon so the deceased’s family didn’t see usual career. Story JILL POULSEN it, to delete browser histories or destroy Edgar, 53, says he was surprised to re- computers and even get rid of the odd im- ceive a call from an acclaimed American plement used for smoking marijuana. movie producer in January. TSS’s dark past saw abuse of children The dying man jumped at the idea. “It One of his favourite jobs, though, was “I got a phone call off a guy called Neal during the 70s and the school has since paid was a joke to start with,” he says. making sure a hoarder’s husband was care- Moritz and I didn’t know who Neal Moritz out more than $1m to at least 11 sex abuse “I was just mucking around and then ful not to throw out her belongings before was, didn’t even care. Then he said ‘I work survivors. when he said to do it. I thought ‘you know checking inside them first. with Paramount Pictures and I want to do a Leaving school at such a young age what, I’ve got no problem telling your best “She had money hidden all over the movie’,” he says. meant Edgar didn’t learn to read or write mate to sit down and shut up or f--k off’.” house in clothes, shoes ... everywhere. It was “I only just signed the deal and as far as I properly until he was 30, yet he’s just pub- Bill chalks up this coffin confession as about $14,000 and he was about to get rid of know they’re talking to actors at the mo- lished – The Coffin Confessor – a rollicking being his most difficult. it,” he says. ment … there’s been talk they’re going to go read that switches between his own re- “It was the very first so you’re anxious, It took Edgar’s wife of 36 years, Lara, a down the road of a comedy … and Mark markable life’s journey and those of his cli- you don’t know how people are going to little time to get used to his new business. Wahlberg might play me.” ents. react and you think to yourself: ‘Is it too “She was like everybody else. It is very It’s not by good luck that Edgar turned confrontational? Is it disrespectful?’ he says. confronting and she asked: ‘Do you think his life around following a few stints in THE FIRST TIME But asked whether he finds the whole you’ll get a lot of flak for it?’ And I said Queensland’s notorious Boggo Road jail in It was his work as a Gold Coast private in- business of coffin confession awkward, his ‘probably, but these people need a voice’ the late 80s, but rather a lifelong determi- vestigator that led Edgar to his first funeral answer is an unequivocal “no”. and at the end of the day I’ve always been nation to stand up for those who cannot client – a self-made man who believed not “People say to me ‘oh, you disrespect the that type,” he says. stand up for themselves, which began long only that he was being swindled by his ac- living’ and I say ‘yes, I do. I’m respecting the Most of us are afraid of dying but for before he became a voice for the dead. some of Edgar’s clients there’s a fate much A devastating childhood riddled with more terrifying – being buried alive. physical, emotional and sexual abuse saw “I have people pay me to stick pins in Edgar run away from home at 13 and grow PEOPLE SAY ... ‘YOU DISRESPECT THE LIVING’ AND I their legs during a viewing and if there’s any up on the streets of Surfers Paradise, sign of movement ask that I get help,” he eventually ending up in jail for property of- SAY ‘YES, I DO. I’M RESPECTING THE PEOPLE IN THE COFFIN’ says. “Many people want me to drop in their fences. mobile phone into the coffin so they can call Always an enterprising type, having if they’ve accidentally been buried alive. I scored a scholarship to the The Southport countant but that his wife may have been people in the coffin, they’re my clients’,” he even had one bloke who wants me to put a School, Edgar found a way to make money having an affair. Cheating spouses were a says. “These people need a voice.” bloody oxygen tank in his coffin.” off his peers while also finding a warm place private investigator’s bread and butter in A fear of death is not one that Edgar to sleep after leaving home. those days, Edgar explains, and it didn’t THE SCARIEST TIME shares with his clients. His first ever business was charging fel- take him long to find evidence that con- It might surprise you to learn that in the 40 “I’m not afraid of death, it’s time that low schoolboys $2 to sleep in their beds to firmed his client’s suspicion – he filmed the times he’s interrupted a funeral to drop a scares me,” he says. “You can’t buy time and make it look like someone was there after wife cheating with his best mate. truth bomb or two, Edgar has never been time just flies.” he’d helped them sneak out undetected and “I didn’t know he was dying when he first physically attacked or even kicked out be- It probably comes as little surprise that ferried them by boat over to the Gold engaged me but he later told me when we fore he could deliver his message. when asked if the coffin confessor himself Coast’s nightclub strip. were talking about death and the afterlife And there has only been one time he was would like his own funeral interrupted, he Tragically, his time at TSS was marred that he had terminal cancer,” he says. genuinely afraid of being punched in the answered with an emphatic “f--k yeah”. by further sexual abuse that saw him leave “He said he had a few things he wanted mouth – during a bikie’s funeral. “Have you left a little note somewhere school for good in 1984. Decades later he to say and I suggested he do his own eulogy “Letting a room of bikies know that the for your loved one telling them that you re- would share his story publicly in order to and he said that he’s been to too many fu- man in the box is ... gay and his lover is in ally love them if you do go out one day and help seek justice for himself and others. nerals and they don’t play them.” the crowd, I mean geez,” he says. never come back?” he asks. “Death is such a “I came forward and now 133 boys have Tongue planted firmly in cheek, Edgar A call from Northern New South Wales taboo thing and we never talk about it, yet come forward – the lost boys of TSS,” suggested that he crash the man’s funeral so led Edgar to a bikie dying of “Jack Dancer” we are all going there.” ■ he said. he could deliver the message. (cancer). His demands were clear – he The Coffin Confessor by Bill Edgar, penguin, $35

24 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW COFFIN CONFESSOR: Former private investigator Bill Edgar now has a thriving business interrupting funerals on behalf of deceased clients. Picture: Glenn Hampson BOOKS

ichael Robotham is an author who sells books by the millions, so it is no surprise Imagine … people REVIEWS he is not a fan of three-word slogans.M When you deliver stories that take tens of thousands of words to tell, three you’d normally turn words are neither here nor there. to for help weren’t The story encompasses her work as an But there’s always an exception. au pair in France for Jean Claude – and “I have three words that I sort of live by going to help you his wife Mathilde who leaves for as a writer, and it’s ‘make them care’,” Central Australia to research an Robotham says. “I’m trying to create important Aboriginal artist, which characters that people really care about like a man trying to pretend to be a woman, compounds Lucy’s homesickness. and then people will stay with you and let me know’’. Coincidentally, the couple’s charismatic want to know what happened.’’ While Robotham is comfortable friend Sebastien is a marble restorer, His voice rises down the line from his with writing from a female point of view, another artistic tangent. home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. He he recognises there are difficulties Lucy’s homesickness for Australia and explains he wants people invested, he wants creating characters from cultures that “are its vastness haunts her, surfacing in the people thinking to themselves as they read: not mine’’. memories of her mother, and another “Please get out of that. Please, no, don’t “I have to be wary or steer clear of Fiction catalyst for that homesickness is do that.’’ telling stories that are not considered Pieta Mathilde’s letters from Alice Springs. It’s an approach that has worked well mine to tell, such as those of ethnic

Michael Fitzgerald Lucy’s mother Jude was once a nun, PICTURE: JULIAN DOLMAN over 15 books, through his Joe O’Loughlin minorities, different races, religions or Transit Lounge, $30 opening another strand in a story in series, his Cyrus Haven and Evie LBGTQ characters,’’ he says. which art in various forms is a constant McCormack tales, and through stand-alone Although, he notes there is a certain Art is a foil for this moving novel about metaphor. The image of the Pieta, Q+A work such as The Secrets She Keeps, which irony that when his books are transferred relationships between parents and featuring Mary holding the body of her was made into a successful TV series. PROLIFIC: Australian to television, producers will often change a children, art and life. The iconic artwork dead son Jesus, is a fascinating and His latest book is When You Are Mine author Michael character to make sure there is greater that pervades the narrative is intriguing one that frames the story. and features police officer Philomena Robotham. diversity on screen. Michelangelo’s stunning and moving Fitzgerald is the editor of Art Monthly McCarthy and domestic violence victim “I’m not opposed, but I find it work, Pieta. The novel begins in Australasia and his 2017 book The Pacific MARK BRANDI Tempe Brown, whose complicated lives interesting they are encouraged to do what St Peter’s Basilica in Rome with young Room, a fictional speculation on Robert intersect. McCarthy’s father is a gangster, I am discouraged from doing,” he says. Australian woman Lucy admiring this Louis Stevenson’s travels through The Melbourne author’s third novel sees while Brown’s life story is shaded in lies Robotham is working on a new Cyrus magnificent sculpture behind its Oceania, also had an arty edge. the world through a child’s eyes and deceit. The pair form a friendship after Haven/Evie McCormack book, filming will bulletproof glass wall. PHIL BROWN McCarthy is called to a domestic violence Care factor start this year on a new series featuring incident where Brown has been beaten and psychologist Joe O’Loughlin. McCarthy dispenses some physical He admits he found writing When You punishment on the abuser. The only Are Mine difficult, although he is happy problem is the abuser, Darren Goodall, is a counts with the result. What was the incident that have had to put it aside while reading police officer. And a decorated one. She is “A lot of creative people, I found, even inspired The Others? When I was a books for endorsement. The prose is told to let the case go, but keeps digging, though they had more time during Covid, kid my dad brought home a small fox dense, but I will persist. endangering her career. Michael Robotham wants readers to feel invested in his it just didn’t seem to be conducive to he’d trapped on our farm. What A book you wish you had read but Robotham says the idea was sparked being creative,’’ he says. “I felt the same followed was one of my first insights haven’t got to? I can’t wait to read when watching a news report about characters and his latest is a troubled policewoman way after something like 9/11. You sort of into the complexities of parenthood, Willy Vlautin’s next book, The Night officers who abused their partners. think, ‘well no one is ever going to be and it inspired the story at the heart Always Comes. His second book, “And the police refused to investigate, Story MICHAEL MCGUIRE interested in reading books again, because of The Others. Northline, is one of my favourites – or charge the people, the perpetrators,” he the world has changed’.” Did events in your own life inform he always writes with such pathos. says. “I looked at these women and He happily admits he was wrong about the story? Not in a deliberate way, The book you are most proud to thought, ‘Imagine what it would be like to becomes claustrophobic, her husband-to- capture the female voice,” he says. that. In fact, he says, the last year was one but I think the relationship between have written? There were definite be in a situation where you were helpless, be is having doubts, she even seeks help Robotham says one advantage he has is of his most successful. Something he says Fiction Fiction Jacob and his father has parallels to constraints in writing from the that the very people you’d normally turn to from her estranged father. that before writing fiction he was a ghost he does feel a little guilty about. The Mistake Memorial the relationship my father had with perspective of an 11 year old boy. So for help weren’t going to help you’.” All the while she continues to pursue writer, capturing the voice of the subject “My wife looked at me and Katie McMahon Bryan Washington my grandfather when growing up in in terms of difficulty, perhaps The At the start, McCarthy’s career is going Goodall, believing he has been violent to being written about. Among others, he said, ‘Not only has it not Echo Publishing $29.99 Atlantic $29.99 post-war Italy. Others is the work I’m most proud of. well, she is about to marry and hasn’t other women. wrote for former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell affected you, but you’ve Is there a book that made you What book do you re-read? Not so talked to her father in many years as she Robotham says writing from a female and Scottish singer Lulu, and became used actually done well’,” he says. Bec and Kate are sisters but couldn’t be Benson and Mike are a young couple love writing? Reading This Is How much a book, but a short story. Bullet tries to distance herself from her family. point of view, which he has done before, to writing from a female perspective. “You will never hear me more different. Once used to the fast whose lives are defined by sex, food, by MJ Hyland was revelatory, both as in the Brain by Tobias Wolff is an But her life unravels after her requires great care. He also asks his wife and “every woman complain about my life.” paced and glamorous lifestyle as a making ends meet and uncertainty a writer and reader – she paints a extraordinary example of confrontation with Goodall. The police “The greatest challenge, I think, for a I know of every age and say, listen, if When You Are Mine, by Michael model, Kate’s career ends after an about the future. They are also gay men difficult protagonist with such compressed storytelling – I must’ve don’t want her, her friendship with Brown male, middle-aged writer is to try to there’s a single beat in this that just sounds Robotham, Hachette, $33 illness and she finds herself in a life of colour in Houston, Texas, with empathy. It was a definite influence read it hundreds of times, and it still more normal, looking for love. complex family histories and different on my first book, Wimmera. gives me shivers. Enter Adam, who ticks all of Kate’s reasons for being wary of commitment. What’s the best book you’ve What books are on your bedside boxes, except there is something she Mike leaves to reconnect with his read? I could never say “best”, but table? The three books I’ve FICTION NEW RELEASES just can’t put her finger on. estranged, terminally ill father in Japan my favourite is The Road by Cormac abandoned Moby Dick for: Small Joys Kate thinks Bec’s life is perfect and just as his mother, Mitsuko, arrives in McCarthy – it’s a book you of Real Life by Allee Richards, I Shot longs for what she has but, little does America to stay with her son. Instead, experience as much as read. the Devil by Ruth McIver, and The Dying Small Acts of The Pick-up The Bride of The Guilt Trip she know, Bec has eyes for the fire- Mitsuko and Benson end up as A book that had a pivotal impact The Last Guests by JP Pomare. Diplomat’s Club Defiance Fiona Harris and Almond Tree Sandie Jones eater who was hired to perform at her unexpected housemates. on your life? One of my older What are you working on now? Matthew Benns Michelle Wright Mike McLeish Robert Hillman Macmillan, $33 husband’s 40th birthday. The characters are selfish and brothers recommended Great I’m cagey about discussing new HarperCollins, $30 Allen & Unwin, $30 Echo, $30 Text, $33 Five friends, Jack Relationships are tested by secrets vulnerable, hurtful and loving – which Expectations when I was about 12. work, but I’ve returned to an A new mystery As WWII engulfs Three women who After WWII, Quaker and Rachel, Noah which lead to one big mistake. is to say, human. But the juxtaposition It opened my eyes to a world outside abandoned manuscript with the featuring Nick and Europe, Australian have become friends Wesley Cunningham and Paige, and Will The plot builds slowly but explodes with of their familiar, sometimes frustrating my lived experience, and sparked hope I can breathe life into its pages. La Contessa, the Lucie and her French at school drop-off returns home. He who have known a twist you don’t see coming. traits against the weight of difference my love of literature. Time will tell … characters from Benns’ hit serial, mother Yvonne are decide to volunteer at the annual has seen his share of horrors but each other for ever, and Will’s McMahon’s debut novel is for fans of we too often project on to others is The book you couldn’t finish? I’m The Others by Mark Brandi, Hachette, which began in lockdown last trapped in German-occupied school camp. Lizzie is a midwife now he intends to build beautiful new fiancee Ali are on a weekend Liane Moriarty who enjoy suspense and what makes this first novel so halfway through Moby Dick, and $33, out now year in this newspaper and other Paris. As anti-Jewish measures with four kids, Sam is newly houses and marry his neighbour’s getaway to Portugal. By the end dark secrets. subtly moving. News titles. It’s set in Kirribilli increase, Lucie must decide how divorced and Megan is tempted daughter Beth Hardy but she has of the weekend there’ll be one ROSEANNA DAZIAN BEN ADAMS House on New Year’s Eve. far she can go to defend others. by a scandalous relationship. other plans. dead body and one is the killer.

26 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 27 BOOKS

ichael Robotham is an author who sells books by the millions, so it is no surprise he is not a fan of three-word Imagine … people slogans.M When you deliver stories that take tens of thousands of words to tell, three you’d normally turn words are neither here nor there. to for help weren’t But there’s always an exception. “I have three words that I sort of live by going to help you as a writer, and it’s ‘make them care’,” Robotham says. “I’m trying to create characters that people really care about like a man trying to pretend to be a woman, and then people will stay with you and let me know’’. want to know what happened.’’ While Robotham is comfortable His voice rises down the line from his with writing from a female point of view, home on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. He he recognises there are difficulties explains he wants people invested, he wants creating characters from cultures that “are people thinking to themselves as they read: not mine’’. “Please get out of that. Please, no, don’t “I have to be wary or steer clear of do that.’’ telling stories that are not considered It’s an approach that has worked well mine to tell, such as those of ethnic over 15 books, through his Joe O’Loughlin minorities, different races, religions or series, his Cyrus Haven and Evie LBGTQ characters,’’ he says. McCormack tales, and through stand-alone Although, he notes there is a certain work such as The Secrets She Keeps, which irony that when his books are transferred was made into a successful TV series. PROLIFIC: Australian to television, producers will often change a His latest book is When You Are Mine author Michael character to make sure there is greater and features police officer Philomena Robotham. diversity on screen. McCarthy and domestic violence victim “I’m not opposed, but I find it Tempe Brown, whose complicated lives interesting they are encouraged to do what intersect. McCarthy’s father is a gangster, I am discouraged from doing,” he says. while Brown’s life story is shaded in lies Robotham is working on a new Cyrus and deceit. The pair form a friendship after Haven/Evie McCormack book, filming will McCarthy is called to a domestic violence Care factor start this year on a new series featuring incident where Brown has been beaten and psychologist Joe O’Loughlin. McCarthy dispenses some physical He admits he found writing When You punishment on the abuser. The only Are Mine difficult, although he is happy problem is the abuser, Darren Goodall, is a counts with the result. police officer. And a decorated one. She is “A lot of creative people, I found, even told to let the case go, but keeps digging, though they had more time during Covid, endangering her career. Michael Robotham wants readers to feel invested in his it just didn’t seem to be conducive to Robotham says the idea was sparked being creative,’’ he says. “I felt the same when watching a news report about characters and his latest is a troubled policewoman way after something like 9/11. You sort of officers who abused their partners. think, ‘well no one is ever going to be “And the police refused to investigate, Story MICHAEL MCGUIRE interested in reading books again, because or charge the people, the perpetrators,” he the world has changed’.” says. “I looked at these women and He happily admits he was wrong about thought, ‘Imagine what it would be like to becomes claustrophobic, her husband-to- capture the female voice,” he says. that. In fact, he says, the last year was one be in a situation where you were helpless, be is having doubts, she even seeks help Robotham says one advantage he has is of his most successful. Something he says that the very people you’d normally turn to from her estranged father. that before writing fiction he was a ghost he does feel a little guilty about. for help weren’t going to help you’.” All the while she continues to pursue writer, capturing the voice of the subject “My wife looked at me and At the start, McCarthy’s career is going Goodall, believing he has been violent to being written about. Among others, he said, ‘Not only has it not well, she is about to marry and hasn’t other women. wrote for former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell affected you, but you’ve talked to her father in many years as she Robotham says writing from a female and Scottish singer Lulu, and became used actually done well’,” he says. tries to distance herself from her family. point of view, which he has done before, to writing from a female perspective. “You will never hear me But her life unravels after her requires great care. He also asks his wife and “every woman complain about my life.” confrontation with Goodall. The police “The greatest challenge, I think, for a I know of every age and say, listen, if When You Are Mine, by Michael don’t want her, her friendship with Brown male, middle-aged writer is to try to there’s a single beat in this that just sounds Robotham, Hachette, $33

FICTION NEW RELEASES

The Dying Small Acts of The Pick-up The Bride of The Guilt Trip Diplomat’s Club Defiance Fiona Harris and Almond Tree Sandie Jones Matthew Benns Michelle Wright Mike McLeish Robert Hillman Macmillan, $33 HarperCollins, $30 Allen & Unwin, $30 Echo, $30 Text, $33 Five friends, Jack A new mystery As WWII engulfs Three women who After WWII, Quaker and Rachel, Noah featuring Nick and Europe, Australian have become friends Wesley Cunningham and Paige, and Will La Contessa, the Lucie and her French at school drop-off returns home. He who have known characters from Benns’ hit serial, mother Yvonne are decide to volunteer at the annual has seen his share of horrors but each other for ever, and Will’s which began in lockdown last trapped in German-occupied school camp. Lizzie is a midwife now he intends to build beautiful new fiancee Ali are on a weekend year in this newspaper and other Paris. As anti-Jewish measures with four kids, Sam is newly houses and marry his neighbour’s getaway to Portugal. By the end News titles. It’s set in Kirribilli increase, Lucie must decide how divorced and Megan is tempted daughter Beth Hardy but she has of the weekend there’ll be one House on New Year’s Eve. far she can go to defend others. by a scandalous relationship. other plans. dead body and one is the killer.

V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 27 Small joys on big day

Postponing their wedding turned out to be a blessing in disguise for this How did he propose? We were in Tasmania for our babymoon and Sam had surprised me with Toowong couple, with their baby boy playing a bigger role upgrading our room to one of the amazing Enjoy every Coastal Pavilion rooms at Freycinet Lodge. Pictures CLOUD CATCHER He told me we were going out for dinner, and step along we were in the main reception, then he said he the way, it forgot something so we had to go back to the or this couple, delaying their wedding The Toowong couple were due to marry on room where he had organised a private dinner. due to Covid had one lovely upside. October 3 last year at Old Government House, really does By this point I knew something may have been The extra six months meant their but made the decision early last year to up and then he popped the question! almost two-year-old son Henry was postpone when the pandemic was declared. go by so fast Fold enough to walk down the aisle. They made the decision to reschedule to Original wedding plans? Our original wedding “On our original wedding date he would April 25 this year, and chose to move the date was October 3, last year. Our ceremony not have been able to do this,” bride Sarah wedding to The Calile. was meant to be at Old Government House and Jones said. A total of 85 guests attended, although some the reception at Howard Smith Wharves. Sarah and Samuel Brown met three years international and interstate guests were unable ago and had both their son Henry and Sam’s to travel to the nuptials. When did you decide to change plans? We daughter Abigail, 4, at their wedding. The couple danced their first dance to decided to postpone in early April. “We are fortunately a dating app success You And Me by Lifehouse, and honeymooned story, on Bumble,” Sarah said. in Noosa. Emotions around changing plans? We were

28 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW WEDDINGS

The Bride Sarah Jones, 33

Parents Denise and Eric Jones Bridesmaids Lauren Jones, Kirrilli Cobley, Rachelle Hamilton and Teagan Seccombe Dress Erin Clare Couture Hair Hooch Hair & Make up Make-up Hooch Hair & Make up Flowers Floras & Co Engagement ring A.G. Designer Jeweller

The Groom obviously disappointed but knew there were Sarah in her dress come around the corner and on top of things but luckily one upside to Samuel Brown, 34 thousands of people in our position and that our start walking down the aisle. postponing our wedding was I had time to day would come when the time was right. We Sarah: Seeing Sam at the altar, having our really think about what was important for us to Parents Denise and were lucky to have a few friends in the same children walk down the aisle and having all our have on the day. Paul Brown position as us, so sharing the experience helped. friends and family finally together to celebrate Groomsmen Oliver our wedding. Advice for other couples whose weddings are Bagheri, Matt Roberts, Updated wedding plans? We had to find a new impacted by coronavirus? Try not to stress too Ben Harvey and venue due to the capacity of both of the venues What would you do differently? We wouldn’t much about the uncertainty of your wedding Brendan Winkle we had originally booked and liked the idea of do anything differently – it truly was everything not happening. Enjoy every step along the way, Suit Joe Black having it all in the one place which is when we we wanted and more! it really does go by so fast. And however it Entertainment went to look at The Calile. happens, even if it’s not what you originally Janda Events What would you spend more or less on? Again had planned, it will be the best day. Photographer What helped you get through the stress of nothing, we spent more money on the things Cloud Catcher changing plans? Knowing that at the end of the that we considered important and would leave a Hen’s night? A staycation with my bridesmaids Cake Petal & Peach day we would get married. The bonus of lasting memory on us and our guests. followed by a long lunch at Southside postponing was Henry being able to walk down Restaurant with all my girlfriends, and drinks the aisle with Abigail. On our original wedding One thing you wish people told you about and dancing into the night. If you’d like your date he would not have been able to do this. planning a wedding? Sit on your ideas for a wedding featured in while. I think when I first started out I just Buck’s night? Long lunch at Walter’s QWeekend, email Standout moment of the day? Sam: seeing booked things straight away to make sure I was Steakhouse followed by a small pub crawl. [email protected]

V1 - BCME01Z01QW JULY 3-4, 2021 QWEEKEND.COM.AU 29 [12] Keiynan Lonsdale played the role of quote attributed to which American Uriah Pedrad in which movie in the science fiction writer? Divergent series? [43] Freetown is the capital city of which [13] Bramble Cay, Australia’s African country? BIG northernmost point, is part of [44] Which Western Australian band which local government area? features Jordi Davieson, Josh [14] Which company makes the Biondillo and Scarlett popular snack food Tasty Stevens? Toobs? [45] The juice of which fruit is QUIZ [15] Bryson DeChambeau won which traditionally used to make one of golf’s major tournaments grenadine syrup? Compiled by RIC ALLPORT 12 in 2020? [46] Who starred as Shirley Dean [16] “Making my way downtown, (Gilroy) in the Australian TV walking fast, faces pass and I’m series A Country Practice? homebound” are the opening [47] The Altai Mountains are situated [1] In which US city could you visit the words of which Vanessa Carlton on which continent? Dame Quentin Bryce Art Gallery? song? [48] In 2021, which US company agreed [2] Brisbane Roar played against which [17] Who won the 2021 Archibald Prize for to pay Australia’s Bega Cheese team in the elimination finals of the portraiture? $9.25m when the “peanut butter 2020-21 A-League season? [18] Which Latin phrase is commonly war” came to an end? [3] What is the main religion in India? translated as “seize the day”? [49] Who directed the 2021 movie Wrath [4] Who was chosen to host the 2021 [19] In May 2021, Justis Huni defeated [33] Who was the last person to win the of Man? series of The Weakest Link which boxer to retain the Australian Academy Juvenile Award, given for [50] What are the three colours on the (Australia)? heavyweight title? her role in the 1960 movie Macarthur Bulls logo? [5] True or false? In internet slang, NSFW [20] Namibia gained independence from Pollyanna? means ‘not safe for work’. which country in 1990? [34] Which venue was awarded Best [6] In January 2021, who was appointed [21] What is the name of the messaging Regional Venue at the 2021 as the White House press secretary? app that was used in the worldwide Queensland Music Awards? [7] Mulgumpin is the Indigenous name sting operation resulting in mass [35] The 1890 painting, Sunlight Sweet, for which Queensland island? arrests in June 2021? Coogee, is one of the best-known 46 works by which Australian artist? [8] Who were the three wives of [22] Phil Burton gained fame through his Geoffrey Edelsten? work in which pop vocal group? [36] Captain Merrill Stubing is one of the main characters of which [9] The Troodos Mountains and the [23] Crows Nest National Park is a popular classic TV series? Kyrenia Mountains dominate which tourist destination in which island in the Mediterranean Sea? Queensland region? [37] What is the symbol for the chemical element boron? [10] Novak Djokovic defeated which [24] Who won the 2020 MotoGP World player in the semi-finals of the 2021 Championship? [38] Nature’s Way was a comic French Open men’s singles [25] In 2017, Mark Bailey became the strip by Gary Larson that tournament? Member of the Queensland later became known by what name? [11] What nationality is Miss Universe Legislative Assembly for which 2020, Andrea Meza? electoral district? [39] In May 2021, Carrie Symonds [26] Which famous cricketer wrote the married which world leader? 2006 book of reflections, Caps, Hats [40] If you were in Polynesia, what and Helmets? would you do with a lavalava? [27] As at June 2021, how many [41] The Northern Pride rugby league Queensland Labor senators are team is based in which Queensland in the Federal Senate? city? [28] What is the largest animal in [42] “Science is magic that works” is a the ape family? [29] Who scored Queensland’s only try in Game One of the 2021 NRL State of Origin PalindromicThis sequence of puzzle words should read the same backwards 1 series? as forward e.g. Mad as Adam [30] Which Gold Coast radio The sequence of words should read the same backward as they do forward; eg. Mad as Adam station has the call sign CLUE: Nix, Aussie actor be some 4HTB? Clue:gambling Nix, Aussie den’s actor be largesome gambling citrus. den’s large citrus. [31] Who created the fictional character Professor Robert Langdon? , M [32] In June 2020, Brian Goorjian became the coach of which Australian NBL team? c ’

australian word games 162

Palindromic solution: Palindromic 50. 49. 48. 47. 46. No, Mel Gibson is a casino’s big lemon. big casino’s a is Gibson Mel No, ochre. white, Black, Ritchie Guy Heinz Kraft Asia Desmond Lorrae

45. 45. 44. 43. 42. 41. 40. 39. 38. 37. 36. 35. 34. Pomegranate Pomegranate Cisco San Leone Sierra Jr. Vonnegut Kurt Cairns it Wear Johnson Boris Side Far The B Boat Love The Streeton Arthur NightQuarter

33. 33. 32. 31. 0. 3 29. 28. 27. 26. 25. 24. 23. 22. 21. Hayley Mills Mills Hayley Hawks Illawarra Brown Dan Tomato Hot Capewell Kurt Gorilla Three Walker Max Miller Mir Joan Downs Darling Nature Human Solution: No, Mel Gibson is a casino’s big lemon. ANOM

20. 19. 18. 17. 16. 15. 14. 13. 12. 11. South Africa South Tsoye Ndzie Christian diem Carpe Wegner Peter Miles Thousand A Open US Company Snackfood Smith’s The Torres of Shire Allegiant Mexican Nadal

10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. Answers: Quiz Rafael Rafael Cyprus Grecko Gabi Gordon, Brynne Nesbitt, Leanne Island Moreton Psaki Jen True Szubanski Magda Hinduism United Adelaide DC Washington

30 QWEEKEND.COM.AU JULY 3-4, 2021 V1 - BCME01Z01QW MY LIFE Brian Canham Musician, 58, Yarra Ranges, Victoria

How did you feel when the band’s How has the pandemic affected you? version of Funky Town went off It has made me appreciate some around the world? I felt on top of the things a lot more, like freedom. world … against all odds, naysayers etc, it came through perfectly. What helps you cope when times get tough? Love … from my wife What’s a favourite memory from Raquel, my family and friends. touring with Madonna, Eurythmics and bands of that ilk? We actually What’s the most sentimental turned down the Madonna tour lol, item you own? I have many but one of my favourite memories sentimental items, so it’s hard would be playing the Budokan in to pinpoint one over another … Tokyo when Pseudo Echo won the but maybe a vintage cufflink World Popular Song Festival, and that belonged to my late father. later performing alongside Stevie It’s quite ornate, featuring a Wonder in the finale. gold head of a man wearing a turban crafted from a pearl How did the material for your new shell … made by Swank. album 1990 The Lost Album Demos I remember it vividly as a get lost? Basically I entrusted my one child, always displayed nicely and only master tape of all my songs on my father’s dressing table. to management (at the time) to be duplicated and sent off to record What makes you happy? companies. Unfortunately, the tape Love, respect, honesty, and was misplaced, and after months of life with Raquel. me requesting it back, I gave up, deeming it lost forever. What’s next? A book! I have been working Was jingle writing for a host of big on a book of my clients just as difficult as writing journey, pop? It had it’s challenges, though not ultimately finding with actually composing, more just truth, and dealing with people in a different happiness … there industry. I found the actual writing are many excerpts part really easy. already published on my Facebook page. What musical projects are you Facebook.com/ working on now? Pre-production for BrianCanhamAustralia Pseudo Echo’s upcoming concert tour, as well as collating material for a Pseudo Echo play solo album/tour later in the year. The Triffid on July 30 PICTURE: SEAN PARIS PICTURE: SEAN PARIS

iving in a Queenslander built in warmer inside the Metropol Hotel than Many’s the night there when I slept fully 1928 is charming and all but it’s inside my house in Brisbane. It was minus 13 clothed and wearing my army surplus great bloody freezing in winter. My wife outside but inside it was like summer in coat with a beanie pulled right down over was out walking the dog the other Brissie and as soon as you got indoors you my face. I guess that made it a balaclava. Lmorning and she ran into a neighbour who would peel off the layers and lounge around I met an Irish lady some years ago who lives in a similarly historic home and she like you were in Bali. had moved to Brisbane and was surprised by said the same thing. She said she was now It’s so cold in our house lately that I have how cold it was in winter and how houses wearing her beanie inside the house. taken to wearing up to four layers of here weren’t made for cold weather. “In Most old Queenslander homes don’t clothing including some thermal Ireland you put your coat on to go outside,” have central heating but there are a couple undershirts. I do have some thermal long she said. “Here we put on our coats to go of months of the year when we actually johns too and I might have to break them inside.” I know it will be spring soon but we need it. When we have visited my brother in out soon. I have even slept in my tartan still have a couple of chilly months ahead. Canada in autumn it’s been freezing outside woollen dressing gown which sounds like Not sure how I’m going to cope. I purchased but so toasty inside that everyone walks overkill I know but it kept me snug as a bug a warm sheepskin hat in Moscow with flaps Last Word around in shorts and T-shirts. in a rug. That reminded me of my uni days that cover the ears and I may have to When I spent 10 days in Moscow in in Toowoomba when we lived in a draughty unearth it soon to wear at home. And I think PHIL BROWN midwinter a couple of years ago I was and dilapidated old mansion on James St. I might wear a beanie underneath.

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