Welcome to this week's Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community guide for the week running from Tuesday April 28 - Monday May 4, 2009.
This week.. raise your hands in the air and wave your Shillelagh like you just don't care at the Koroit Irish Festival offering a day of fun, music and food. You can also make your way to Clunes this weekend for the popular Back to Booktown fair, a must for all bookworms. There's a great day of music performance with Choral@Montsalvat where you can also take in exhibitions at the scenic artists colony.
Foodies can also get out for some festivities this week with the Chestnut Festival in Mount Dandenong offering some toasty roasted fun and food. There's also the Grampians Grape Escape and the Autumn Harvest festival held at Lavandula Farm. The Melbourne International Jazz Festival also continues this week along with the Mount Beauty Festival and Shakespeare on the River.
Mother's Day
Mother's Day Restaurant Offers - Mother's Day is one of the busiest times for restaurants, so be sure to book ahead to treat Mum to a great, big tasty thankyou for all she's done! Many restaurants in Melbourne offer special menus, complementary drinks and much more to make Mother's Day an occasion.
Mother's Day Gift Guide | May 10th - Mother's Day is only one week away, so be sure to get a great gift for Mum! If you haven't bought a gift or planned something special for your mother yet then why not try some of our ideas to make it a perfect Mother's Day this year and show her you care.
Petals Network can help you make Mother's Day special with flowers that can be sent to anywhere in the world, offering quality flowers and gifts in over 70 countries, delivered fresh by a Local Florist. And with over 1000 florists Australia wide, you can be sure to put a smile on Mum's face no matter where she is!
The Koroit Irish Festival celebrates Irish heritage through music, poetry, dancing, singing and more. Held in historic Koroit, between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, the festival features a wide range of activities for people of all ages with six music stages on the village green, a market and street stalls.
When:Saturday & Sunday May 1 & 2 | FREE Event
Choral@Montsalvat is a music-in-the-round choral festival that features fourteen choirs performing in one big day. Held at the Montsalvat artist's colony in Eltham, which was established in 1934, the festival has choirs perform simultaneously in three art galleries, offering thirteen events to choose from.
When:Sunday May 3 - Noon to 5pm
The Chestnut Festival, held annually for over 30 years now at Mount Dandenong's Kalorama Reserve, offers fun for the whole family with fairground rides, buskers, market stalls and plenty of roast chestnuts. With raffles, face painting, showbags and more the festival includes musical performances.
When:Sunday May 3 - Noon to 4pm
Back to Booktown is a huge two-day book fair held in the town of Clunes, the site of Victoria's first gold strike, located an hour and a half's drive from Melbourne. During the weekend fair, buildings all across Clunes become temporary bookstores with more than 50 booksellers from all over Australia.
When:Saturday & Sunday, May 2 & 3 - 9am to 4pm
Shakespeare on the River Festival in Stratford celebrates William Shakespeare's 445th Birthday this year with a program of events that includes theatre, music, story telling, puppet making workshops and more, along with the major highlights, the Avon Village Fair Day, held at Stratford's Village Green.
When:Now Until May 7 | Village Fair Day held May 3
The Bright Autumn Festival, held in the last week of April and the first week of May, celebrates two weeks of Autumn's vibrant colours and produce in the valleys of the Victorian High Country with festival highlights that include a Gala Weekend with a street market and parade, winery tours, an art show and more.
When:Now Until May 6 | Gala Day held May 2
The Melbourne International Jazz Festival returns with an impressive program offering more than 55 events that celebrate the riches of jazz. Performances include international and Australian jazz masters, free concerts at Federation Square, Jazz for Kids, cinema screenings at ACMI and plenty of jam sessions.
When:Now Until May 2
Upcoming Events
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
To find out about future events in Melbourne, have a look at our new calendar, with details about many more events that lie ahead, including Exhibitions, Gigs, Markets, Expos and more..
Children of Winter, Warren Miller's largest action sports film ever, showcases incredible scenery and cinematography with fast-paced skiing, snowboarding and more in beautiful locations such as Japan and Iceland. Presented in high-definition at Rivoli Cinema, the film is narrated by skiing icon Jonny Moseley.
When:Limited Run - May 20 to 24
Win a Double-Pass!!!
OnlyMelbourne has one Double Pass to give away for the Melbourne screening of Children of Winter.
To go into the draw to win a chance to see the impressive film, email your name, address and contact details with 'Warren Miller Giveaway' as the subject line.
COMPETITION NOW CLOSED
Exhibitions - Art | Festival | Show
Stocked , showing at Northcote's Immersion Therapy, is an exhibition of photography from four artists who set out to recapture the true essence of the camera as a means of defining moments in life and setting them apart from all other moments in time, as opposed to the daily plaything cameras have become.
When:Fridays to Sundays | Ends:May 10
The Camberwell Rotary Art Show, now in its fifth year and held at its traditional venue the Camberwell Centre, is ranked among the largest traditional competitions, displays and sales of paintings in the Southern Hemisphere, raising funds for community needs serviced by the Rotary Club of Camberwell.
When:Open Daily | Ends:May 12
Pretty as a Picture, held at Fad Gallery in Melbourne's Corrs Lane, is an exhibition of stencil art by Tal Brott. The exhibition comprises spray enamel works using a unique stencilling technique with subject matter as diverse as Arnold Shwartzeneggar in bathers to Darth Vader in fetish gear.
When:Tuesdays to Saturdays | Ends:May 12
50 Years of Hope & Courage, a photo exhibition held in the foyer of Albert Park's Gasworks, marks 50 years since the Dalai Lama fled into exile and Tibetans rose up against Chinese rule in Tibet. Presented by the Australia Tibet Council, the unique photos highlight the determination of Tibetans to preserve their heritage.
When:Open Daily - 9am to 5pm | Ends:May 2
Central Periphery, showing at the RMIT Gallery in Swanston Street, brings together the work of six Northern European artists. Curated by Scottish artist Alan Johnston, whose drawings are featured, the exhibition explores ideas of landscape and spaces through minimal abstraction, alternative drawing and installation.
When:Mondays to Saturdays | Ends:May 23
Expos, Tours & Open Days
The Victorian Rabbit Association will hold their 3* Rabbit Show at Dandenong Showgrounds. With a judging competition, the show is a come along and learn more about your pet rabbit, learn more about owning one, or simply meet other owners. Entry is free, however, there's a fee of $1.50 for those showing rabbits.
When:Sunday May 3 - 11.30am to 3pm
designEX, held across three days at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, features over 300 top design companies in Australia's most comprehensive interior architecture and design event. The expo has an impressive showcase of cutting edge products, exciting features, prestigious awards and informative seminars.
When:Thursday April 30 to Saturday May 2
A Sustainable World is an expo held at Mansfield Showgrounds, which can help you learn innovative ways to build your new home or maintain an existing one using eco-friendly solutions. The expo offers advice on many areas including gardening, energy efficiency, waste reduction and even organic skin care.
When:Saturday May 2 - 10am to 4pm
Shaping Elegance, held at Como Historic House and Garden in South Yarra, is a fashion exhibition that showcases the work and designs of Robert Fritzlaff, a master craftsman who stood out and established his reputation in the late 1960s. The designer himself will be part of special tours on selected dates.
When:Open Daily - 10am to 5pm | Ends:June 14
Next Tour - May 13 | Bookings Required
Performances & Theatre
Garden of Delights, performed at St Kilda's Theatre Works, is a surrealist play of dark sexuality by Ferando Arrabal, who penned the play in 1960's. The story of an actress who escapes reality by withdrawing into am imagined garden, the play was last performed 30 years ago at the Jam Factory.
When:Preview April 30 - Starts May 1 | Ends:May 16
Someone Who'll Watch Over Me, a Broadway hit based on true events, tells the story of three men kidnapped in broad daylight on the streets of Beirut and held together in a small cell. Performed at Fortyfivedownstairs in Flinders Lane, the play is inspired by conversations shared by the abductees.
When:Previews April 29 & 30 | Tues to Sat - May 1 to 17
Tom Fool, presented by Hoy Polloy theatre, is a daring and compelling drama that focuses on the everyday lives of ordinary working-class people and takes us back to the moment when women changed the rules of the game. Performances will be held at the Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre in Brunswick.
When:May 1 to May 23
The Yeomen of the Guard, performed by the Gilbert and Sullivan Light Opera Company, is an operetta that was considered by the duo to be the finest of all their collaborative works. The story of Colonel Fairfax, a man wrongly condemned to death, shows are held at the Alexander Theatre in Clayton.
When:May 1 & 2
Call Girl the Musical, playing at Chapel Off Chapel in Prahran, is a love story set in the factory of the future where Jean Brown, on her first day at 'We Care Marketing', encounters the many flawed characters of the dubious and somewhat relentless call centre and does her best to fit in despite her reservations.
When:Tuesday to Sunday | Ends:May 3
Secret Bridesmaids' Business is Elizabeth Coleman's play that takes a humorous look at some serious pre-wedding issues including truth, denial, sex, love and friendship. Written by Elizabeth Coleman who gave us SeaChange, and featuring Jacki Weaver, performances are held at the Arts Centre's Playhouse.
When:Runs Until May 10
The Underpants, presented by Curve 8, is Steve Martin's adaptation of Carl Sternheim's 1910 farce in which Louise Maske's world turns upside down when she finds her underpants around her ankles during a parade for the King, setting forth a chain of comedic events and absurd behaviour.
When: Thursday to Sundayday | Ends:May 3
Dralion is the latest show by Cirque du Soleil. With performances held under their trademark blue and yellow Grand Chapiteau in Docklands, the show is a fusion of ancient Chinese circus traditions and the avant-garde approach of Cirque du Soleil which has made them the world's most renowned circus performers.
When:Tuesdays to Sundays | Ends:June 14
Cristal Burlesque, held each week at the Chapel Street bar, Cristal, showcases some of Australia's finest Burlesque performers with circus and vaudeville acts, regular international guests and DJs playing sultry blues at one of Melbourne's most luxurious venues and decadent events.
When:Every Sunday - Doors Open 7pm
Classical, Choral & Recitals
Valpurgis Night, performed by the Scandinavian Choir, is a special benefit concert with the net proceeds going to the Australian Red Cross. Held at the Swedish Church in Toorak, the concert features guest artists including Suzann Frisk and Mats Bjorklund performing music from Denmark, Norway and Sweden.
When:May 2 - Begins 6pm | FREE with Retiring Collection
Another Show of Song is a performance by Lipstick and Spurs, an energetic country choir who are led by Darebin musician and songwriter Jenny Taylor. The choir, an entertaining group who perform at many festivals, will be joined by Laura McDonald when they perform at the Northcote Uniting Church.
When:Sunday May 3 | Doors open at 4.30pm
Entertainment & Nightlife
The Mannix College Ball, held at the Royal Melbourne Hotel on Bourke Street, is a huge night of awesome music, endless drinks and finger food. Organised by students of Mannix College, the annual event is planned at the end of each academic year, and has become a popular event that never fails to entertain.
When:Wednesday April 29 - 8pm
The Melbourne Folk Club meet each weekend to enjoy live acoustic music, offering a great afternoon with CDs available by local performers. Performances are held at the Grandview Hotel in West Brunswick with the next guests Jugularity combining comic cabaret with folk, jazz and more in their unique style.
When:Saturday May 2 - 3pm to 6pm
Leticia Maher will be performing Behind Your Smile, the first single of her new album 'Fallen Angels,' at The Drunken Poet in West Melbourne. Known to be a composite performer, the singer/guitarist/songwriter has been described as 'the complete package' with her melodic songs and expressive voice.
When:Thursday April 30 | FREE Entry
South Side Funk features the funkiest DJ's from both Melbourne and interstate playing true old-school funk like you'll never find at any other venue. Held at Big Mouth, located in St Kilda, South Side Funk is the hottest place in Melbourne for all you money-maker shakers to get down with groovy basslines.
When:Every Friday Night | FREE Entry
Cinema
Salt of the Earth, an inspirational cinema classic that tells the story of the Empire Zinc mine strike held during the McCarthy years, will be screened as a special May Day Celebration by the Freedom Socialist Party. The event, which includes an optional dinner, takes place at Brunswick's Solidarity Salon.
When:Saturday May 2 - Dinner 6:30pm & Film 7:30pm
Comedy
Denise Scott will be appearing at the next Library Lounge session of Northcote Library where she'll share stories of her life as a domestic goddess in Thornbury, as told in her humorous book, All That Happened at Number 26. Signed copies will be available for sale on the night.
Kid Disco is at the Chelsea Heights Hotel where kids can enjoy all the fun of a primary school disco kicked up a notch! With two sessions held every Saturday afternoon, Kid Disco features professional DJ's, a disco light show and dance instructors who perform and offer dancing tips. Entry includes a meal on the day.
When:Saturdays - 1pm to 3pm & 4pm to 6pm | $11 Entry
Circus Shows
Silvers Grand Magic Circus will be appearing in Melton with performances at Woodgrove Shopping Centre. Established in 1976, Silvers Grand Magic Circus offers a great show for the whole family, with everything from jugglers and clowns to acrobats, international performers and much more.
When:Held Various Days | Ends:May 17
Puzzles & Competitions
Spot The Difference
There are 5 Differences between these two pictures of Ballarat's Sovereign Hill Village... See if you can spot them! Sign up for answers revealed in Next Week's Newsletter
Last week's answers are further down with Melbourne Trivia
My Picturetown is a special offer to OnlyMelbourne readers from NIKON, the worlds recognised leader in photography. Register as a member (FREE!) and enter the draw for a chance to win great prizes while also enjoying 20 GB of free storage for your prized and precious photographs!
When:Promotional Draw Ends April 30
Community
The Mums' Tennis Program, one of Tennis Victoria's most popular programs for mums, will be appearing at various local tennis clubs, offering an affordable series of lessons at just $15 for five weeks of qualified tennis coaching. Participating parents can also enrol the kids in the Tiny Tots Tennis Program.
When:Runs Until May 29 | Various Tennis Clubs
The Summerhill Dance Group hold a social event for people of all ages and backgrounds each week at the Oakhill Community Centre in Reservoir. Supported by Darebin Council, the dance evenings feature music from a professional D.J. playing strict tempo music for people of all dance level skills.
When:Each Friday - 7:30pm to 11pm
Speakers Forum | Soapbox Oratory - Soapbox orators (that means you if you've something to say) can take turns speaking on various topics and viewpoints on the State Library Lawns. Questions, comments, heckling and interjections are welcome from all, simply turn up on the day to participate or listen.
When:Each Sunday Afternoon - 3pm to 6pm
You Can Help
There are many social causes that are relevant to people from all walks of life, many of which rely on public support to better the community or assist those who are less fortunate or to benefit others. This week we ask you to consider the following..
Australia's Biggest Morning Tea will see more than one million Australians once again stir themselves into action for Cancer Council's popular fundraiser. Now in its 16th year, Cancer Council Victoria is urging all Victorians to take time for to attend a tea event or better yet, host their own.
Triple Climb, the Smith Family Challenge, this year sees cricket and rugby union codes go head to head. Representing each sports code, two teams will set forth on a true test of endurance across Australia's high country to raise $250,000 for The Smith Family's Learning for Life program for disadvantaged kids.
Swear Stop | Give It Up for Schizophrenia - If you or others you know have a tendency to let a naughty word slip, why not put that habit to the test by giving up swearing for a week or encouraging them to do the same and help the Schizophrenia Research Institute raise money for important research.
Rosanna Primary School Fair - Great day of entertainment for the family with drinks, food, books, rides and kids' activities.
When:Saturday May 2nd - 10am to 4pm
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days (it's a coin toss lately, isn't it!) and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain!
A growing number of food, produce and even wine markets are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Grampians Grape Escape, held at Halls Gap Oval, is a gastronomic getaway where foodies can indulge in delicious gourmet fare, fabulous wines and cooking demonstrations by celebrity guests. With over 80 vendors, the festival includes live music, children's entertainment and much more.
When:Saturday & Sunday, May 2 & 3 - 11am to 4:30pm
The Lavandula Autumn Harvest Festival is a celebration of food held at Lavandula Farm in Shepherds Flat, ten minutes north of Daylesford. Featuring musical performances, demonstrations in jam making, fruit bottling and more, the festival also has a wide range of fresh food and produce available to purchase.
When:Sunday May 3 - 10am to 5.30pm
Wining
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OnlyMelbourne Welcomes..
Each week we highlight some of the latest additions to OnlyMelbourne's ever growing guide to services, businesses and information sites for your community.
To find out how you can join Melbourne's largest online community Visit Here!
LoveBento is a FREE weekly email packed with the most loveable stuff about Melbourne. With your help the LoveBento team scour the streets for the hottest products, people and places and deliver them straight to your inbox. Recipients of the LoveBento can then vote for what they love the most.
Dovac Painting Services offers painters and decorators who can offer their services Melbourne wide. With professionals who can help out with wall papering, renovations, and more. Dovac Painting Services can also provide decorative finishes, insurance work and even offer night shift services with excellent jobs always assured and all work guaranteed.
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The most recent speculation surrounding the death of Australia's most infamous racing horse, Phar Lap, is that he was poisoned accidentally, and not intentionally taken from the game as part of a sinister plot.
Although previous tests had found that Phar Lap's remains contained high levels of arsenic, it has recently been found in a diary kept by his trainer, Harry Telford, that the horse's death may have been by accidental poisoning by his strapper Tommy Woodcock.
It's said that in Phar Lap's time, the early 30's, arsenic was quite a common tonic, usually given in the form of a solution known as Fowler's Solution.
The solution was so common that it's estimated 90 per cent of the horses back then would have had arsenic in their systems.
Speaking of what's on, our new calendar allows you to select any day of the year to view everything (everything!!!) on that day in an easy to read, printable display.
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Welcome to this week's Melbourne events, exhibitions, sports and community guide for the week running from Tuesday April 28 - Monday May 4, 2009.
This week.. raise your hands in the air and wave your Shillelagh like you just don't care at the Koroit Irish Festival offering a day of fun, music and food. You can also make your way to Clunes this weekend for the popular Back to Booktown fair, a must for all bookworms. There's a great day of music performance with Choral@Montsalvat where you can also take in exhibitions at the scenic artists colony.
Foodies can also get out for some festivities this week with the Chestnut Festival in Mount Dandenong offering some toasty roasted fun and food. There's also the Grampians Grape Escape and the Autumn Harvest festival held at Lavandula Farm. The Melbourne International Jazz Festival also continues this week along with the Mount Beauty Festival and Shakespeare on the River.
Mother's Day
Mother's Day Restaurant Offers - Mother's Day is one of the busiest times for restaurants, so be sure to book ahead to treat Mum to a great, big tasty thankyou for all she's done! Many restaurants in Melbourne offer special menus, complementary drinks and much more to make Mother's Day an occasion.
Mother's Day Gift Guide | May 10th - Mother's Day is only one week away, so be sure to get a great gift for Mum! If you haven't bought a gift or planned something special for your mother yet then why not try some of our ideas to make it a perfect Mother's Day this year and show her you care.
Petals Network can help you make Mother's Day special with flowers that can be sent to anywhere in the world, offering quality flowers and gifts in over 70 countries, delivered fresh by a Local Florist. And with over 1000 florists Australia wide, you can be sure to put a smile on Mum's face no matter where she is!
The Koroit Irish Festival celebrates Irish heritage through music, poetry, dancing, singing and more. Held in historic Koroit, between Warrnambool and Port Fairy, the festival features a wide range of activities for people of all ages with six music stages on the village green, a market and street stalls.
When:Saturday & Sunday May 1 & 2 | FREE Event
Choral@Montsalvat is a music-in-the-round choral festival that features fourteen choirs performing in one big day. Held at the Montsalvat artist's colony in Eltham, which was established in 1934, the festival has choirs perform simultaneously in three art galleries, offering thirteen events to choose from.
When:Sunday May 3 - Noon to 5pm
The Chestnut Festival, held annually for over 30 years now at Mount Dandenong's Kalorama Reserve, offers fun for the whole family with fairground rides, buskers, market stalls and plenty of roast chestnuts. With raffles, face painting, showbags and more the festival includes musical performances.
When:Sunday May 3 - Noon to 4pm
Back to Booktown is a huge two-day book fair held in the town of Clunes, the site of Victoria's first gold strike, located an hour and a half's drive from Melbourne. During the weekend fair, buildings all across Clunes become temporary bookstores with more than 50 booksellers from all over Australia.
When:Saturday & Sunday, May 2 & 3 - 9am to 4pm
Shakespeare on the River Festival in Stratford celebrates William Shakespeare's 445th Birthday this year with a program of events that includes theatre, music, story telling, puppet making workshops and more, along with the major highlights, the Avon Village Fair Day, held at Stratford's Village Green.
When:Now Until May 7 | Village Fair Day held May 3
The Bright Autumn Festival, held in the last week of April and the first week of May, celebrates two weeks of Autumn's vibrant colours and produce in the valleys of the Victorian High Country with festival highlights that include a Gala Weekend with a street market and parade, winery tours, an art show and more.
When:Now Until May 6 | Gala Day held May 2
The Melbourne International Jazz Festival returns with an impressive program offering more than 55 events that celebrate the riches of jazz. Performances include international and Australian jazz masters, free concerts at Federation Square, Jazz for Kids, cinema screenings at ACMI and plenty of jam sessions.
When:Now Until May 2
Upcoming Events
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
To find out about future events in Melbourne, have a look at our new calendar, with details about many more events that lie ahead, including Exhibitions, Gigs, Markets, Expos and more..
Children of Winter, Warren Miller's largest action sports film ever, showcases incredible scenery and cinematography with fast-paced skiing, snowboarding and more in beautiful locations such as Japan and Iceland. Presented in high-definition at Rivoli Cinema, the film is narrated by skiing icon Jonny Moseley.
When:Limited Run - May 20 to 24
Win a Double-Pass!!!
OnlyMelbourne has one Double Pass to give away for the Melbourne screening of Children of Winter.
To go into the draw to win a chance to see the impressive film, email your name, address and contact details with 'Warren Miller Giveaway' as the subject line.
COMPETITION NOW CLOSED
Exhibitions - Art | Festival | Show
Stocked , showing at Northcote's Immersion Therapy, is an exhibition of photography from four artists who set out to recapture the true essence of the camera as a means of defining moments in life and setting them apart from all other moments in time, as opposed to the daily plaything cameras have become.
When:Fridays to Sundays | Ends:May 10
The Camberwell Rotary Art Show, now in its fifth year and held at its traditional venue the Camberwell Centre, is ranked among the largest traditional competitions, displays and sales of paintings in the Southern Hemisphere, raising funds for community needs serviced by the Rotary Club of Camberwell.
When:Open Daily | Ends:May 12
Pretty as a Picture, held at Fad Gallery in Melbourne's Corrs Lane, is an exhibition of stencil art by Tal Brott. The exhibition comprises spray enamel works using a unique stencilling technique with subject matter as diverse as Arnold Shwartzeneggar in bathers to Darth Vader in fetish gear.
When:Tuesdays to Saturdays | Ends:May 12
50 Years of Hope & Courage, a photo exhibition held in the foyer of Albert Park's Gasworks, marks 50 years since the Dalai Lama fled into exile and Tibetans rose up against Chinese rule in Tibet. Presented by the Australia Tibet Council, the unique photos highlight the determination of Tibetans to preserve their heritage.
When:Open Daily - 9am to 5pm | Ends:May 2
Central Periphery, showing at the RMIT Gallery in Swanston Street, brings together the work of six Northern European artists. Curated by Scottish artist Alan Johnston, whose drawings are featured, the exhibition explores ideas of landscape and spaces through minimal abstraction, alternative drawing and installation.
When:Mondays to Saturdays | Ends:May 23
Expos, Tours & Open Days
The Victorian Rabbit Association will hold their 3* Rabbit Show at Dandenong Showgrounds. With a judging competition, the show is a come along and learn more about your pet rabbit, learn more about owning one, or simply meet other owners. Entry is free, however, there's a fee of $1.50 for those showing rabbits.
When:Sunday May 3 - 11.30am to 3pm
designEX, held across three days at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, features over 300 top design companies in Australia's most comprehensive interior architecture and design event. The expo has an impressive showcase of cutting edge products, exciting features, prestigious awards and informative seminars.
When:Thursday April 30 to Saturday May 2
A Sustainable World is an expo held at Mansfield Showgrounds, which can help you learn innovative ways to build your new home or maintain an existing one using eco-friendly solutions. The expo offers advice on many areas including gardening, energy efficiency, waste reduction and even organic skin care.
When:Saturday May 2 - 10am to 4pm
Shaping Elegance, held at Como Historic House and Garden in South Yarra, is a fashion exhibition that showcases the work and designs of Robert Fritzlaff, a master craftsman who stood out and established his reputation in the late 1960s. The designer himself will be part of special tours on selected dates.
When:Open Daily - 10am to 5pm | Ends:June 14
Next Tour - May 13 | Bookings Required
Performances & Theatre
Garden of Delights, performed at St Kilda's Theatre Works, is a surrealist play of dark sexuality by Ferando Arrabal, who penned the play in 1960's. The story of an actress who escapes reality by withdrawing into am imagined garden, the play was last performed 30 years ago at the Jam Factory.
When:Preview April 30 - Starts May 1 | Ends:May 16
Someone Who'll Watch Over Me, a Broadway hit based on true events, tells the story of three men kidnapped in broad daylight on the streets of Beirut and held together in a small cell. Performed at Fortyfivedownstairs in Flinders Lane, the play is inspired by conversations shared by the abductees.
When:Previews April 29 & 30 | Tues to Sat - May 1 to 17
Tom Fool, presented by Hoy Polloy theatre, is a daring and compelling drama that focuses on the everyday lives of ordinary working-class people and takes us back to the moment when women changed the rules of the game. Performances will be held at the Mechanics Institute Performing Arts Centre in Brunswick.
When:May 1 to May 23
The Yeomen of the Guard, performed by the Gilbert and Sullivan Light Opera Company, is an operetta that was considered by the duo to be the finest of all their collaborative works. The story of Colonel Fairfax, a man wrongly condemned to death, shows are held at the Alexander Theatre in Clayton.
When:May 1 & 2
Call Girl the Musical, playing at Chapel Off Chapel in Prahran, is a love story set in the factory of the future where Jean Brown, on her first day at 'We Care Marketing', encounters the many flawed characters of the dubious and somewhat relentless call centre and does her best to fit in despite her reservations.
When:Tuesday to Sunday | Ends:May 3
Secret Bridesmaids' Business is Elizabeth Coleman's play that takes a humorous look at some serious pre-wedding issues including truth, denial, sex, love and friendship. Written by Elizabeth Coleman who gave us SeaChange, and featuring Jacki Weaver, performances are held at the Arts Centre's Playhouse.
When:Runs Until May 10
The Underpants, presented by Curve 8, is Steve Martin's adaptation of Carl Sternheim's 1910 farce in which Louise Maske's world turns upside down when she finds her underpants around her ankles during a parade for the King, setting forth a chain of comedic events and absurd behaviour.
When: Thursday to Sundayday | Ends:May 3
Dralion is the latest show by Cirque du Soleil. With performances held under their trademark blue and yellow Grand Chapiteau in Docklands, the show is a fusion of ancient Chinese circus traditions and the avant-garde approach of Cirque du Soleil which has made them the world's most renowned circus performers.
When:Tuesdays to Sundays | Ends:June 14
Cristal Burlesque, held each week at the Chapel Street bar, Cristal, showcases some of Australia's finest Burlesque performers with circus and vaudeville acts, regular international guests and DJs playing sultry blues at one of Melbourne's most luxurious venues and decadent events.
When:Every Sunday - Doors Open 7pm
Classical, Choral & Recitals
Valpurgis Night, performed by the Scandinavian Choir, is a special benefit concert with the net proceeds going to the Australian Red Cross. Held at the Swedish Church in Toorak, the concert features guest artists including Suzann Frisk and Mats Bjorklund performing music from Denmark, Norway and Sweden.
When:May 2 - Begins 6pm | FREE with Retiring Collection
Another Show of Song is a performance by Lipstick and Spurs, an energetic country choir who are led by Darebin musician and songwriter Jenny Taylor. The choir, an entertaining group who perform at many festivals, will be joined by Laura McDonald when they perform at the Northcote Uniting Church.
When:Sunday May 3 | Doors open at 4.30pm
Entertainment & Nightlife
The Mannix College Ball, held at the Royal Melbourne Hotel on Bourke Street, is a huge night of awesome music, endless drinks and finger food. Organised by students of Mannix College, the annual event is planned at the end of each academic year, and has become a popular event that never fails to entertain.
When:Wednesday April 29 - 8pm
The Melbourne Folk Club meet each weekend to enjoy live acoustic music, offering a great afternoon with CDs available by local performers. Performances are held at the Grandview Hotel in West Brunswick with the next guests Jugularity combining comic cabaret with folk, jazz and more in their unique style.
When:Saturday May 2 - 3pm to 6pm
Leticia Maher will be performing Behind Your Smile, the first single of her new album 'Fallen Angels,' at The Drunken Poet in West Melbourne. Known to be a composite performer, the singer/guitarist/songwriter has been described as 'the complete package' with her melodic songs and expressive voice.
When:Thursday April 30 | FREE Entry
South Side Funk features the funkiest DJ's from both Melbourne and interstate playing true old-school funk like you'll never find at any other venue. Held at Big Mouth, located in St Kilda, South Side Funk is the hottest place in Melbourne for all you money-maker shakers to get down with groovy basslines.
When:Every Friday Night | FREE Entry
Cinema
Salt of the Earth, an inspirational cinema classic that tells the story of the Empire Zinc mine strike held during the McCarthy years, will be screened as a special May Day Celebration by the Freedom Socialist Party. The event, which includes an optional dinner, takes place at Brunswick's Solidarity Salon.
When:Saturday May 2 - Dinner 6:30pm & Film 7:30pm
Comedy
Denise Scott will be appearing at the next Library Lounge session of Northcote Library where she'll share stories of her life as a domestic goddess in Thornbury, as told in her humorous book, All That Happened at Number 26. Signed copies will be available for sale on the night.
Kid Disco is at the Chelsea Heights Hotel where kids can enjoy all the fun of a primary school disco kicked up a notch! With two sessions held every Saturday afternoon, Kid Disco features professional DJ's, a disco light show and dance instructors who perform and offer dancing tips. Entry includes a meal on the day.
When:Saturdays - 1pm to 3pm & 4pm to 6pm | $11 Entry
Circus Shows
Silvers Grand Magic Circus will be appearing in Melton with performances at Woodgrove Shopping Centre. Established in 1976, Silvers Grand Magic Circus offers a great show for the whole family, with everything from jugglers and clowns to acrobats, international performers and much more.
When:Held Various Days | Ends:May 17
Puzzles & Competitions
Spot The Difference
There are 5 Differences between these two pictures of Ballarat's Sovereign Hill Village... See if you can spot them! Sign up for answers revealed in Next Week's Newsletter
Last week's answers are further down with Melbourne Trivia
My Picturetown is a special offer to OnlyMelbourne readers from NIKON, the worlds recognised leader in photography. Register as a member (FREE!) and enter the draw for a chance to win great prizes while also enjoying 20 GB of free storage for your prized and precious photographs!
When:Promotional Draw Ends April 30
Community
The Mums' Tennis Program, one of Tennis Victoria's most popular programs for mums, will be appearing at various local tennis clubs, offering an affordable series of lessons at just $15 for five weeks of qualified tennis coaching. Participating parents can also enrol the kids in the Tiny Tots Tennis Program.
When:Runs Until May 29 | Various Tennis Clubs
The Summerhill Dance Group hold a social event for people of all ages and backgrounds each week at the Oakhill Community Centre in Reservoir. Supported by Darebin Council, the dance evenings feature music from a professional D.J. playing strict tempo music for people of all dance level skills.
When:Each Friday - 7:30pm to 11pm
Speakers Forum | Soapbox Oratory - Soapbox orators (that means you if you've something to say) can take turns speaking on various topics and viewpoints on the State Library Lawns. Questions, comments, heckling and interjections are welcome from all, simply turn up on the day to participate or listen.
When:Each Sunday Afternoon - 3pm to 6pm
You Can Help
There are many social causes that are relevant to people from all walks of life, many of which rely on public support to better the community or assist those who are less fortunate or to benefit others. This week we ask you to consider the following..
Australia's Biggest Morning Tea will see more than one million Australians once again stir themselves into action for Cancer Council's popular fundraiser. Now in its 16th year, Cancer Council Victoria is urging all Victorians to take time for to attend a tea event or better yet, host their own.
Triple Climb, the Smith Family Challenge, this year sees cricket and rugby union codes go head to head. Representing each sports code, two teams will set forth on a true test of endurance across Australia's high country to raise $250,000 for The Smith Family's Learning for Life program for disadvantaged kids.
Swear Stop | Give It Up for Schizophrenia - If you or others you know have a tendency to let a naughty word slip, why not put that habit to the test by giving up swearing for a week or encouraging them to do the same and help the Schizophrenia Research Institute raise money for important research.
Rosanna Primary School Fair - Great day of entertainment for the family with drinks, food, books, rides and kids' activities.
When:Saturday May 2nd - 10am to 4pm
NEW LIVE CALENDAR
View MARKETS on any day of the week to make the most of the rare sunny days (it's a coin toss lately, isn't it!) and head to one of Melbourne's many excellent markets, fetes and fairs for a bargain!
A growing number of food, produce and even wine markets are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Grampians Grape Escape, held at Halls Gap Oval, is a gastronomic getaway where foodies can indulge in delicious gourmet fare, fabulous wines and cooking demonstrations by celebrity guests. With over 80 vendors, the festival includes live music, children's entertainment and much more.
When:Saturday & Sunday, May 2 & 3 - 11am to 4:30pm
The Lavandula Autumn Harvest Festival is a celebration of food held at Lavandula Farm in Shepherds Flat, ten minutes north of Daylesford. Featuring musical performances, demonstrations in jam making, fruit bottling and more, the festival also has a wide range of fresh food and produce available to purchase.
When:Sunday May 3 - 10am to 5.30pm
Wining
Cleanskins.com sell premium Australian wines direct to the public at up to 50% off retail prices, offering Free Home Delivery and a 100% Money Back Guarantee. Perfect for all lovers of wine, their impressive range of wines and service were recommended on Channel 7's Today Tonight and Channel 9's A Current Affair.
Dining Specials - Save Up To 20% on Your Bill Menulog is the easiest way to book a restaurant online with over 4000 restaurant listings! By booking online through Menulog you can enjoy fine food and save money with special deals offering discounts on total food bills, complimentary wine and drinks, discount group bookings and much, much more! Visit Here For The Latest Deals With Menulog!!
Menulog Home Delivery is a great chance to eat fine cuisine at home! With over 300 of the best restaurants on offer, you're sure to find something to suit any taste or occasion.
To find fast and easy delivery in your area, Visit Here
OnlyMelbourne Welcomes..
Each week we highlight some of the latest additions to OnlyMelbourne's ever growing guide to services, businesses and information sites for your community.
To find out how you can join Melbourne's largest online community Visit Here!
LoveBento is a FREE weekly email packed with the most loveable stuff about Melbourne. With your help the LoveBento team scour the streets for the hottest products, people and places and deliver them straight to your inbox. Recipients of the LoveBento can then vote for what they love the most.
Dovac Painting Services offers painters and decorators who can offer their services Melbourne wide. With professionals who can help out with wall papering, renovations, and more. Dovac Painting Services can also provide decorative finishes, insurance work and even offer night shift services with excellent jobs always assured and all work guaranteed.
Smartvisit Card is the best way to see the sights of Melbourne, whether you're visiting Melbourne for business, a vacation, or even if you're a local wanting to find Melbourne's hidden treasures!
The Smartvisit Card includes entry to attractions such as Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne Aquarium, Old Melbourne Gaol, Telstra Dome, Cook's Cottage, Melbourne River Cruises, and many more of Melbourne's TOP venues!
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The most recent speculation surrounding the death of Australia's most infamous racing horse, Phar Lap, is that he was poisoned accidentally, and not intentionally taken from the game as part of a sinister plot.
Although previous tests had found that Phar Lap's remains contained high levels of arsenic, it has recently been found in a diary kept by his trainer, Harry Telford, that the horse's death may have been by accidental poisoning by his strapper Tommy Woodcock.
It's said that in Phar Lap's time, the early 30's, arsenic was quite a common tonic, usually given in the form of a solution known as Fowler's Solution.
The solution was so common that it's estimated 90 per cent of the horses back then would have had arsenic in their systems.
Speaking of what's on, our new calendar allows you to select any day of the year to view everything (everything!!!) on that day in an easy to read, printable display.
-:- View What's On Calendar
-:- View Markets Only Calendar
Melbourne On The Phone
OnlyMelbourne is now mobile phone compatible. Yes, our pages are formatted to be viewed on the small screen. To view our mobile phone website, go directly to our home page with your web compatible mobile phone and you will automatically be redirected to the mobile compatible version of OnlyMelbourne.
Mother's Day Restaurant Offers - Mother's Day is one of the busiest times for restaurants, so be sure to book ahead to treat Mum to a great, big tasty thankyou for all she's done! Many restaurants in Melbourne offer special menus, complementary drinks and much more to make Mother's Day an occasion.
NEW LIVE CALENDAR 
Silvers Grand Magic Circus will be appearing in Melton with performances at Woodgrove Shopping Centre. Established in 1976, Silvers Grand Magic Circus offers a great show for the whole family, with everything from jugglers and clowns to acrobats, international performers and much more.
Speakers Forum | Soapbox Oratory - Soapbox orators (that means you if you've something to say) can take turns speaking on various topics and viewpoints on the State Library Lawns. Questions, comments, heckling and interjections are welcome from all, simply turn up on the day to participate or listen.
A growing number of food, produce and even wine markets are always popping up around the suburbs. And don't forget garage sales!
Cleanskins.com sell premium Australian wines direct to the public at up to 50% off retail prices, offering Free Home Delivery and a 100% Money Back Guarantee. Perfect for all lovers of wine, their impressive range of wines and service were recommended on Channel 7's Today Tonight and Channel 9's A Current Affair.
Dining Specials - Save Up To 20% on Your Bill 
Modern Australian Cuisine
OnlyMelbourne is now mobile phone compatible. Yes, our pages are formatted to be viewed on the small screen. To view our mobile phone website, go directly to our home page with your web compatible mobile phone and you will automatically be redirected to the mobile compatible version of OnlyMelbourne.
