This particular blog entry, however, is about the second part of my holiday in Melbourne (not my most recent trip) and if I don’t write it down now, I think it will fade from the annuals of my memory entirely (especially as the past few weeks have become nothing more than a frenetic blur.) So I’m going to just dive straight in (Alzheimer’s permitting), from where I left off last time.

So, day number two in Melbourne commence with a brisk and vigorous search for breakfast in the city. As I’m sure you’ve been told, Melbourne has a wealth of cafes dotted between various side streets and alleys, perfect for that mid morning brekkie urge, when you’ve woken up with the munchies and an intoxicating need for bacon.

After looking at the menu at Hairy Canary (I don’t know why you’d name a cafe that either, but there you go) it instantly got our seal of approval. Their menu laid out a utopian breakfast in such yummy and intricate detail, that it actually made you MORE hungry as you were reading it.

Perfect way to start, what would become a busy Sunday.

(Or so I thought.)

I sat there, partially drooling, my mind clouded with thoughts of the wondrous gourmet feast about to make love to my eyes, the sizzling bacon, the warm fluffy scrambled eggs & the crunchy sourdough toast.

And then, without warning,  I was suddenly hauled back to reality, with a stiff and firm clunk. My ‘breakfast’ had finally decided to emerge from its former home, the clattering & quarrelsome kitchen.

I’d chosen the “Big Brekkie”, which essentially is bacon, roasted tomato, sausages and eggs – a heart-attack on a plate I’m well aware, but so utterly amazing you’re willing to run the risk.

Well, usually.

However, the big brekkie that half-heartedly stared back at me, wasn’t ANYTHING like I’d imagined. Served in a mini frying pan, everything was literally fused together, in a sort of pan-fried vomit ensemble.

The eggs were poached (not scrambled) the bacon was mere strips of fat in disguise, the tomato looked like it had been microwaved to within an inch of it’s life and the sausages took the form of some strange phallic-shaped Spanish salami.

W.T.F indeed.

Apparently, at least for the chef’s at Hairy Canary, this is gourmet breakfast Melbourne style. But as I nervously poked and prodded at it, my stomach rumbled with the almost instant realization, that it was going to have to go on being hungry for a little while longer.

I left the Hairy Canary feeling almost as empty, as when I went in. Not the ideal start to the day I’m sure you’ll agree.

Along with it’s cafe culture and boutique fashion stores, Melbourne is also predominantly known for embracing of all things arty. If you’re an artist (in whatever form) in Melbourne, you will get numerous fuzzy hugs from the arts council and even more opportunities to display your wares.

There are galleries, live venues and stand-up clubs all scattered around the city – infinitely  more than there is in Sydney. In fact,  even graffiti is promoted as a tourist feature and in the case of Melbourne at least, with good reason.

There’s the famous ACDC Lane (named after the band) which showcases some of the cities upcoming graffiti artists, but there’s several other lane-ways and passages nearby which are home to hundreds of vastly more intricate and interesting characters. Each have been spray painted with care, ablaze in colour with many of them peaking from behind recently pasted band posters.

You can tell many of these wonderful and often mischievous characters are the result of a generation who’s youth was spent watching trippy 80’s cartoons, daily doses of  Seseme Street and endless hours spent playing Mario Brothers, Pac-Man, Sonic The Hedgehog, Alex Kidd and Donkey King.

You can see more images from the streets of Melbourne, in the slideshow at the bottom of this blog and here

Now we’ve covered ’static’ art in Melbourne, it seems only appropriate that I shed a bit of light on some ‘moving’ art we took in as well. Centrally located, the Australian Center For The Moving Image (more commonly know as ACMI) really was a highlight of the trip.

Admittedly, it’s name is rather pretentious, but once you get inside the center itself, it all begins to make sense. Throughout the entire exhibit, the history of “the moving image” is showcased. From its initial incarnation of shadows and puppets, through to the arrival of TV, its expansion into movies, strobe lights, delay effects all of which which lead onto video games, personal computers, the birth of the Internet, wireless devices and motion capture technology.

And far from being one of those tedious galleries where there are simply pictures and information heavy wall mounted plaques everywhere, the ACMI has models you could touch, twist, turn, rotate, pull, press and interact with.

ACMI – Matrix Stop Motion

Alex | MySpace Video

We even shamelessly played a few rounds of Pong, danced in front of a screen as giant Godzilla shaped shadow (complete with sound effects) and jumped very briefly into a starring role in The Matrix movie.

It’s the type of place where as a kid, you’d be unable to contain yourself, destined to walk around with your eyes wide open and a huge smile swept across your face and in fact, even as an adult, you’d be hard pressed not be impressed by the sheer fun and trip down memory lane on offer.

Next door was an exhibition by NZ artist Len Lye. Now I freely admit I’d never heard of the chap, indeed when I walked into the first room featuring his work, I rashly came to that conclusion as to why that was.

Projected onto the walls, was a collection of video displays featuring various coloured slides and shapes, in random patterns. It was tedious, directionless and incredibly uninspiring all at that same time. “I could have done that.” I thought and judging by the disappointed and weary looks from everyone else in the room, they all collectively agreed.

But how silly I was judge Len Lye with such flippant disregard, because as I rounded the corner into the second room, I was greeted with a spectacle that really did make change my opinion of him a complete 180 degrees.

The room was covered in dark grey carpet surrounded by even darker walls, 6 or so high intensity spotlights projected downwards onto 6 metal sculptures, all of which moved with a calm kinetic energy entirely of their own accord.

Sheets of metal that waved violently as you walked past, tiny strands of steels the width of your hair that shimmed as the air flow changed direction – it was as if every object had a personality, a mood and energy of its own. Beautifully done, crafted to perfection and mesmerising at the same time. The inanimate, literally coming to life.

The final part of the day, was spent under the band of a blurry rainbow, as we traversed some small market stalls, saw a lifesized cardboard castle / art installation (sounds exciting but it wasn’t lol) and then headed back late afternoon for a seriously yummy Mexican dinner in South Yarra.

Later that night we went and saw the second Marilyn Manson show in Melbourne (we had seats this time) and I have to stay it was a marked improved from the night previously. The band seemed to put more effort in and the sound was noticeably better. ( Still not a patch on the Sydney shows though.)

After the show, we found ourselves back at the Crown Casino (the only thing centrally located that was open past 11.30pm on a Sunday) having the few drinks in the lobby, surrounded by the constant whirring of machines and squeals of delight as people hit numerous jackpots.

There was even a famous b-grade actor floating around, I have no idea what his name was, but his ADDIDAS tracksuit and Brooklyn accent lead me to believe he was probably in The Soprano’s or another mafia / gangster affair. But probably the funniest part of the evening, was reserved for the food court at the casino.

Imagine the type of people you’d get in there at 2am, ties all loose, bloodshot eyes, empty wallets, high heels in hand, ordering kebabs and a chips whilst wearing suits and sequins! If I tried to remember all the wonderful characters that were stumbling around at that hour, I would be here forever – but the stand outs in my mind, would have to be the guy in the baby blue, one piece suit with trainers on and SERIOUSLY a cougar version of the lovable Vicky Pollard from Little Britain. I can’t tell how upset I was, that I didn’t have my camera on me

And then, Monday, quick breakfast in the city (yes, it was MUCH better than Hairy Canary I’m please to report) before leaping on the SkyBus and heading back to the airport.

It had a been a quick holiday, but a much needed break. I think looking back on it all, Yummy Yasmin and I really crammed in a lot of things during such a short stay, I only really went down to see Marilyn Manson, so it was great that we got to do all that extra stuff in between.

Melbourne then….would I live there? Probably not. But do I think it’s a great place to visit? Absolutely

Alex

You can see more photos from the trip here, or by hitting play on the slideshow below

Giving a demo at the MySpace Music press conference October 1st 2009

It’s been a hectic few days, in fact the last couple of weeks have been somewhat of a blur. This is largely due to spending excessive hours @ work, in preparation for the launch of MySpace Music in Australia and New Zealand.

On October 1st, key media players across Australia were invited to come down for the great unveiling and celebrate it’s arrival at the press conference. From the major record labels (who have equity in the venture) through to established news outlets such as SMH, News Ltd, to industry coverage from the Music Network and support from the ever dependable ABC, everyone, who is anyone in Australian media, was there.

As you’d expect, there was a tremendous amount of excitement, fanfare and relief on the day. The product had been in development for over a year, with on-going rumors raising the expectation levels each and every day, however, I’m delighted to say they’ve been met & even exceeded with it’s launch. It really is a fantastic avenue for musicians and there’s little doubt in my mind, that it’s a massive step-forward for individuals who are fans of music and want free, quick and easy access to it.

As a result, Australian and New Zealand MySpace users can listen to songs & albums from over 5 MILLION artists on the site, including their extensive back catalogues.

It’s mind-boggling trying to even begin to comprehend that isn’t it

To give you an example,  Elvis Presley alone has 121 albums available on MySpace all of which you can stream in their entirety, unlimited, legally and for free.

(I’ve been listening to Daft Punk’s 2007 Alive album religiously recently).

Plus you can create your own playlists and share them with friends – just like you did with those old-skool mixtapes back in the 80’s & 90’s. Even Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has put together his own personal playlist on the site, respect!

Those two quick examples alone, should demonstrate the reach, influence, impact and potential MySpace Music has. It truly is instant and free access for everyone who is a fan of music. Come and try it out.

Exciting times ahead

Speaking of exciting times, in under a week, I’m heading down to Melbourne to go and see Marilyn Manson play two shows there, how is that for dedication hehe, I seriously can’t wait, my version of a mini-holiday.

I’m actually seeing him twice in Sydney, so all up 4 times in 5 days, and if I’m really lucky who knows, I might even get to meet him again. If I do, rest assured I’m going to send the world the photos! His new record ‘The High End Of Low’ just keeps getting better and better with each listen.

I’ll be updating and using Twitter whilst I’m down there, so please do stay in touch if you don’t already. It blows my mind that I can take a photo from my Blackberry, send it to Twitter, which then syncs with my MySpace and Facebook accounts, allowing you guys to all view it.

I used it today actually.

I found this chap, around the back of Oxford Street, left for dead on the side of the curb, after a big night out. So I took it upon myself to prop him up and arrange him in a manner the locals would approve of….

I left him there like that, so here’s hoping he gets lucky tonight.

It’s true, I rarely fail in finding ways to amuse myself haha!

Alex

p.s. Today I watched my beloved Sydney FC return to the top the league, Arsenal hammered Blackburn 6-2 and EVEN Norwich City won 5-1. Talk about a great weekend of football!

Aside from the fact that I woke up today, to see this is anyone else feeling a little shocked it’s nearly October already?

It seems only moments ago that I was thinking about what hidden surprises 2009 might have in store, yet here we are, with less than 100 days to go until Christmas.

I feel if I’m not careful, I might close my eyes for a few seconds, only to wake up in the future, reclining in a nursing home, with a Yogi Bear cookie jar next to me and a mangy moggy on my lap, who goes by the name of Mr. Bigglesworth….imagine the thought.

One thing I often DO imagine, is the first impression people have when they stumble across my Flickr page. They must genuinely think that my friends are entirely comprised of some of the loosest drunken pirate fiends in the entire Sydney metropolitan area.

I wonder where they might have potentially got that idea from?

But enough of dust, cats, old men and drunk people, there are more important things to consider in this world aren’t there? Specifically, hehe, that back in June (just realizing it’s been THAT long already baffles me) , I mentioned that I was starting work on a new little project . Since then, there has been some seriously late nights spent beavering away, and whilst the timeline has moved a little, I’m really pleased to report that we’re looking good, to potentially reveal all before the end of the year!

It’s been really fascinating watching it develop over the past few months. You feel as if you’re achieving something as each little piece slowly slots into place. But until nearer the end of the year, I’m going to keep you in suspense about any further details. As the below picture shows, I’m all about keeping things on the down low haha

And finally, to recap on worldly matters since my last post

HIGHLIGHTS
I’m playing tennis again (Yes, even I was surprised!)
Sydney FC are top of the table
Got a decent return from Mr Tax Man
Credit Card balance $0.00
Bought tickets to Marilyn Manson
This photograph of Barack Obama

LOWLIGHTS
Still need that new bed
Fucktards who use Facebook to tell me things like this
Tax return is going on dentist
Waking up to the Sydney Dust Storm this morning!
My body trying to reconcile the notion of “exercise”

Hope all is good in your world, over and out

Alex

I want to preface this blog by saying that I feel extremely privileged and lucky to live in such a uniquely diverse country. I’m surrounded by different cultures, languages and backgrounds, all of which combine to form the rich tapestry of the Australia public.

We have over 140 nationalities represented, making Australia one of the most multi-cultural countries in the world. It highlights that we as a nation in the 21st century are (by and large) an open-minded, respectful and fundamentally accepting society. A nation where few regard ethnic background or varying languages as barriers.

If you took ten photographs, of ten everyday Australian’s in the street – you’d be presented with ten wildly different personas, which collectively form part of Australia society. It’s something to be justly proud of and embraced.

And whilst there are some, who say the wealth of all these different nationalities dilutes Australia’s cultural identity – you have to ask, what really IS this sacred perception that the select few, fear Australia will loose?

Well I can give you a little insight. I moved to Australia in 2000 from the UK. Prior to my arrival, my impression amounted to the following:

Steve Irwin & Crocodile Dundee typified your average Joe in the street, kangaroo’s were jokingly reffered to as a mode of transport, koala’s were present hanging from traffic lights on every street corner, everyone lived in either Ramsey Street or Summer’s Bay, that every 2nd person who walks past you is Aboriginal, that fashion was encapsulated in stubbies, thongs and a pair of Oakley’s and finally that the national cuisine revolves entirely around “throwing another shrimp on the Barbie” a can of Fosters and a meat pie!!!

Shockingly misguided yes, but there are certainly worse stereotypes to be saddled with. But does Australia deserve to have such a hokey and uninformed stereotype? Why would anyone wish to embrace, perpetuate or contribute to the notion that the ‘Land Downunder’ is the back waters of the world? We deserve so much more. Australia deserves so much more.

Every country is lumbered with a stereotype, Britain with the bowler hat and cucumber sandwiches, Spain and the bullfighting Matador, Germany with bearded men in Lederhosen, France with their berets, stripy shirts and garlic necklaces. And whilst I enjoy Steve Irwin, Crocodile Dundee movies, prawns on the BBQ and the occasional episode of Neighbours – surely we can find better examples, which highlight, reflect and more accurately define us a nation? The need for such definition is more vital than ever, our generation, have a real opportunity to make a difference.

Why can’t we be regarded as the leader on climate change? Or the country noted for our innovation? Or the beacon in progressive thinking for social issues and international affairs? Why should we merely cater to the self-imposed whims of tourists and their burning desire for Crocodile hunters and Macadamia nuts?

Australia hasn’t always been a model of tolerance and just a deeper exploration uncovers a few chilling facts. Its recent history is darkened by the actions and racial tension that ignited during the Cronulla riots. An event watched and frowned upon by the world, that left a sour taste in the mouths of all those who love this country.

In your grandparent’s lifetime, the ‘White Australia’ policy was enforced, a time when civil rights, compassion and decency were disregarded as ignorance and racism were firmly embraced. Here’s an actual quote from Prime Minster Stanley Bruce during his 1925 election campaign speech.

“It is necessary that we should determine what are the ideals towards which every Australian would desire to strive. I think those ideals might well be stated as being to secure our national safety, and to ensure the maintenance of our White Australia Policy to continue as an integral portion of the British Empire. We intend to keep this country white and not allow its peoples to be faced with the problems that at present are practically insoluble in many parts of the world”

In a country only 100 years old, there are still poisonous attitudes which need changing and more work and education to be done. And yet this superiority complex hasn’t been merely restricted to ‘white’ Australia’s – minorities discriminate too.

I understand no country is perfect and my views are that of a general nature, but in our attempt to be accommodating, tourist-friendly and perhaps to quickly cover up our past indiscretions – has Australia become too politically correct?

Have we shifted from the abhorrent and aggressive “White Australia Only” mentality to the polar opposite of “Come One, Come All”? Are we to accepting of those, who have no intention on embracing Australian values? Are we leaving the gate unchecked and our expectations dangerously low? At times, it seems to me, that we forgot to stop somewhere in the middle ground.

I was both stunned and sadden by the story my grandfather told me. Being a huge fan of Oriental cuisine (who isn’t right!) he was in an Asian Supermarket buying ingredients, which he couldn’t get at his local Woollies. He went to the counter and was charged $2 more for the item, than the price originally displayed on the shelf.

“Excuse me, hello. Aren’t these $4? They say $4 on the shelf, not $6?”
“Oh $4 price on shelf for Asian’s only.”

My grandfather had a right to feel outraged at such blatant and appalling discrimination in his own country.

But is sadly doesn’t end there. I went to a club in the city, lined up in the cold, finally get to the front door only to be told “Your type can’t come in here”. I ask him what he meant by “My type” and he pointed to a sign on the wall which read “Asian Only Dance Party”.

Can you imagine the public outcry, if I put on a “Whites Only” event?

In this day and age, it defies logic and it’s a truly sickening feeling being discriminated against, I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.

But nobody points out the hypocrisy there, for fear of being un-PC. I’m sure there’s a minority of white Australian’s who are equally guilty of these quiet and individual forms of racism – but the frustrating aspect, is that none of it is needed or warranted from either side, minority or majority.

If you are living and enjoying the limitless perks of a democratic and peaceful Australia, if you wish to run a successful business – why on earth would you wish to create a divide by charging a group more because of their ethnicity? Why start a business and limit your customer base by ONLY having your signs, menu or prices in a foreign language? Why not offer both? Double the custom. Why did white’s in Cronulla deem it necessary to beat upon anyone who wasn’t caucasian with sticks, baseball bats and broken glass?

Why internationally harm another human being, an innocent stranger purely because they look different? Why is the average bearded man of Middle Eastern descent with a suitcase at the airport, the subject of constant stares and murmurs of “he looks like he could be a terrorist?”.

Has the media REALLY been able to manipulate us to that extent?

It’s all so illogical, uninformed and unfounded. We as a nation should be better than that; we collectively need to rise above it.

Universally people are wary of the unknown, I understand that we’re all susceptible to that feeling. But Australians need to be open and receptive to change, not fearful of it – it’s inevitable. If minorities could be less introverted, less divisive and more inclusive, if we could all come together to understand and respect the subtle difference in each others cultures – then the world wouldn’t just stereotype us as ‘that place famous for Kenny The Plumber and all those Anzac Cookies’, but TRULY, as the greatest country in the world.

Your Friend,
Alex

I don’t profess to be the greatest photographer ever, but when it comes to taking  photos, I try to do so, first with my heart and then my head. 

I hope you find a little bit of Sydney in them like I do. If you can’t see the slideshow below, click here 

Enjoy,
Alex

So before I went back to work, on the 6th of January I did the Coogee to Bondi Beach walk along the cliffs. if you haven’t done it yet, you really should it’s beautiful. Also a really good way to clear your mind, get away from the city and just stare out in the vast expansion of the Pacific Ocean.

I took some photos whilst I was there, here’s a preview of one of them.

You can view more at the bottom of this blog, or on my official Flickr profile.

Hope you like

Alex