Snowtown, based on the true story of Australia’s most infamous serial killings, has been recognised at the inaugural Samsung Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards (AACTA) at the Sydney Opera House on January 31.
Of its initial 10 nominations, Snowtown took out six of the prestigious awards including Best Direction (Justin Kurzel), Best Lead Actor (Daniel Henshall), Best Adapted Screenplay (Shaun Grant) and Best Supporting Actress (Louise Harris).
Snowtown also picked up the Best Sound and Best Editing awards at the inaugural Samsung AACTA Awards Luncheon held earlier last month.
Also known as The Bodies In The Barrels murders, Snowtown is Justin Kurzel’s directorial debut and the first local production from Warp Films Australia.
When 16-year-old Jamie is introduced to a charismatic man, a friendship begins. As the relationship grows so do Jamie’s suspicions, until he finds his world threatened by both his loyalty for, and fear of, his newfound father figure, John Bunting: Australia’s most notorious serial killer.
It is vailable now from Madman Entertainment on DVD, Blu-Ray and digital platforms.
Television category
In the television category, SBS’s gritty Sydney-based crime drama, East West 101 Season 3 – A Hero’s Journey has added another accolade to its long list of previous AFI Awards with the Best Television Drama Series AACTA Award. East West 101 seasons 1-3 are available now on DVD.
According to Madman’s managing director Paul Wiegard, “We are thrilled the industry has recognised these films and productions, and the abundance of talent behind them. The AACTA awards are a boon for the profile of Australian films and the Australian film industry.” – Rama Gaind
Stars: Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent, Alexandra Roach, Harry Lloyd, Olivia Colman, John Sessions
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Golden Globe-winning actress Meryl Streep has come up trumps, again, in the lead role of The Iron Lady.
Her imitation of British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher is word-perfect and bears an uncanny resemblance to a woman who broke all barriers of class and gender to be heard in a male-dominated world.
This is an insightful portrait of an astonishing and multi-faceted woman.
No opinions are evident about Margaret Thatcher. She was a reality, always in control, so dominating in her manner that she commanded respect – from one and all.
Her formal declarations were accepted as truth.
While Streep is faultless as Lady Thatcher, director Phyllida Lloyd (Mamma Mia!) and screenwriter Abi Morgan appear to be uncertain as to how to portray her.
Instead, with the aid of period footage, flashbacks, dialogue bites and sequence of overlapping film clips, the movie follows her rise, and rise. She held office for an unprecedented three terms.
The narrative concerns power and the price it exacts. When you revisit the key chapters in her life, there are also scenes that suggest an emotional distance from her children and reserved husband (Broadbent).
Margaret Thatcher had quite a life!
Film: The Descendents
Stars: George Clooney, Amara Miller, Beau Bridges, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard, Michael Ontkean, Nick Krause, Robert Forster, Shailene Woodley
Director: Alexander Payne
Moving family drama in which George Clooney (Golden Globe winner) plays Matt King, a lawyer, with two daughters and a wife who is in hospital after a skiing accident.
He tries hard to continue living life as normal and handle the children – Scottie, 10, (Miller) and Alexandra, 17, Woodley).
However, attitudes take a turn when he learns that his wife was having an affair at the time of her accident.
While the pace sags at times, the film gives a whole new meaning to family and inheritance.
Clooney is incredible, the children are wonderful and Nick Krause manages to steal some scenes as Alexandra’s friend, Sid.
WAR HORSE: Steven Spielberg gives us a thrilling subject with a horse’s adventures on both sides of the trenches of World War I.
THE MUPPETS: Assisted by Jason Segel and Amy Adams, uncontrollable laughs are the order of the day as Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie and gang reunite.
HUGO: Martin Scorsese’s fanciful 3D family film about an orphan who lives within the walls of a Paris train station in the 1930s.
WE BOUGHT A ZOO: A touching comedy-drama, co-starring Scarlett Johansson, in which a widower (Matt Damon) moves with his kids into a zoo.
The Mumbai skyline is in the distance as you walk on Juhu Beach in India. PHOTO: Rama Gaind
By Rama Gaind
Sounds of the Arabian Sea were soothing as the waves rushed to shore on Juhu Beach, in Mumbai. Even at 6.30am, walking along the beach, feet sinking in the soft sand, I did not escape the humidity of Mumbai.
I could not escape the shrill noises made by young boys playing cricket. Every spare spot – on sand – had a cricket pitch. Running fast appeared effortless for these eager youngsters. It was fascinating to watch their eager faces as they hit the balls and scored high.
No doubt, they were aspiring to become ‘great’ cricketers in the future, emulating the success of India’s cricketing maestro Sachin Tendulkar. Maybe one of them will beat the record set by the ‘master blaster’ who is the highest scorer in the history of Test cricket with 15,183 runs and the first player to score a double century in the history of One Day International cricket.
It was prime time for reflection, watching families bonding during their morning walks, dogs running around with their handlers or making the acquaintance of stray canines – some roamed aimlessly while others slept oblivious to the activity around them.
Elsewhere along the beach, small shops were slowly opening their doors for trading that’s at its most brisk in the evening.
A coconut vendor stood by his cart, piled high with thirst-quenching coconuts, keeping a keen eye out for early morning customers. He didn’t have to wait for long.
Eager to get an early start, a lone beadmaker was busy putting out his wares on display in anticipation of quick sales. He also took the time to make new bracelets. There was an assortment of colourful and dainty beads to suit all tastes, styles and ages.
It was getting hot and sticky, time was marching on and my feet felt heavy as I ploughed through the sand. It was 8.30am – and time to take refuge indoors – at the Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.
This is the flagship property of Novotel in India, opening its doors in July 2009. The prime beachfront property, sprawled over 2.5 acres, offers 203 rooms and suites with breath-taking views overlooking the Arabian Sea. Epitomising luxury, this was a comfortable home-away-from-home where I savoured not only the service in the lounge on the Premier floor, but also the wide-sweeping views of the beach and the city in the distance.
While there’s a lot to see and do on the beach, Juhu is also one of the most famous suburbs of Mumbai. It’s well-known for its affluence. Juhu is the address for wealthy business identities and some of the most famous stars of the Indian film industry including Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgan, Amrish Puri and Dharmendra. West of Juhu is flanked by the mighty Arabian Sea and Santa Cruz and Vile Parle are in the east.
While in Juhu, pay homage at the Shiv Mandir or visit the ISKCON Temple which is just opposite. Every day about 5,000 pilgrims visit the temple and on Sundays the number swells to more than 10,000.
Get spiritual and visit one of Mumbai’s oldest temples, Mahalaxmi Temple in Bhulabhai Desai Road. It is dedicated to the three shaktis – Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Saraswathi and Goddess Kali.
Set aside some sightseeing time in Mumbai. Get a sense of the city’s colonial history in Colaba and Fort, home to the iconic Gateway of India and ornate High Court, and see ancient sculptures and miniature paintings in the Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum in Kala Ghoda. This dynamic city is overpowering from the Gateway of India!
See nature at its resplendent best. You must not leave without seeing the spectacular sunset. Watch the horizon light up against the vast seemingly endless expanse of the Arabian Sea as the deep red, orange and yellow hues of the setting sun mesmerises you!
DETAILS BOX
Getting there:
Get a tailor-made tour package from the Flight Centre in Australia. Call 133 133 or visit http://www.flightcentre.com.au
In a new venture, the Indian arm of the business is growing fast. Locally known as Flight Shop, five retail stores have already opened in Delhi with more to follow.
How to fly
Qantas Holidays have packages, call 13 14 15
Thai Airways flies to 14 cities in the Indian subcontinent, including Mumbai
The spacious lounge and dining rooms in the penthouse at the Diamant Hotel, in Potts Point, has a balcony with expansive views.
By Rama Gaind
WHEN you travel frequently, it’s vital that your hotel sojourn offers some comforts of home.
If you take into account some additional fringe benefits, then here are seven accommodation houses in Australia that are a cut above the rest.
1) Medina Executive, Brisbane, Queensland
LOCATED at the east-end of the city centre, the Medina Executive in Brisbane offers sweeping views of the Brisbane River, the city skyline and the iconic Story Bridge.
Our one-bedroom apartment on the 8th floor was the ideal spot to witness the best of Riverfire 2011 in September; we had ringside seats, sitting on the balcony, overlooking the Story Bridge!
Medina was the perfect location from which to view the firework displays on the bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the pontoons on the Eagle Pier stretch of the Brisbane River and some of the tall buildings along the waterfront.
This is an ideal location from which to view the new year celebrations and making it a base for when the musical Mary Poppins arrives in January 2012.
IT’S effortless to feel on top of the world at the Diamant Hotel in Sydney – in the luxury penthouse – and easy to soak up the urban vibe.
Overlooking the city’s skyline and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the 12th floor three-bedroom penthouse combines contemporary luxury living with rock star glamour, located moments from Sydney’s most pulsating quarter.
The Diamant is located in the heart of Kings Cross, Potts Point and Darlinghurst triangle, offering Sydney’s biggest and eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, cafés and nightclubs.
Designed by renowned architects Burley Katon Halliday, the state-of-the-art entertainment systems, floor-to-ceiling windows, sun-drenched living spaces and private access with high-tech security creates an oasis in the sky for the sophisticated world traveller.
The three bedrooms are designed with practicality in mind: the lounge and dining areas, in the middle, are flanked on the one side by two bedrooms, each with their own en-suite bathrooms, a massive kitchen (almost of commercial proportions) and the main bedroom which has its own separate wing with a large en-suite bathroom with spa bath, powder room and a smaller balcony.
If you don’t want to cook, the penthouse comes with a butler service, on request!
AUSTRALIA’S first legal casino, Wrest Point opened in February 1973, in a prime waterfront location on the Derwent River.
Its iconic tower has represented accommodation excellence in Hobart for the nearly four decades and now the hotel’s entertainment precinct has been enhanced.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at the award-winning Point Revolving Restaurant where head chef Kent Sullivan adds his own Tasmanian twist to traditional French-style cooking.
A must-see for any visitor is the Museum of Old and New Art – or MONA – which opened in Hobart in January 2011.
It houses a collection that ranges from ancient Egyptian mummies to some of the world’s most infamous and thought-provoking contemporary art. The owner, David Marsh, wants to change the way Australians view contemporary art and has adopted an unconventional and challenging curatorial approach.
MY one-bedroom suite overlooked Rushcutters Bay Park and the Cruising Yacht Club Marina, with the hotel surrounded by Sydney’s most exclusive shopping and nightlife spots.
The options were endless: chill out and stay up late in Kings Cross, Double Bay, Paddington, Woollahra and Potts Point or escape the action and head to the rooftop swimming pool which has been voted among the ‘Top Five’ pools in Sydney.
MELBOURNE offers a cultural feast with a variety of latest international exhibitions, theatre productions and popular festivals together with plenty of great shopping and sports.
Add to this, a tour to discover why Melbourne is Australia’s coffee-drinking capital with Maria Paoli from Evolving Success and your two-day stay is jam-packed with activity.
The chic Lyall Hotel and Spa in South Yarra is Melbourne’s only privately-owned and operated five-star hotel in a fashionable address that’s tucked away from the busy main road.
The welcoming ambience is appealing, but most unusual is the mini art gallery on each level with fireplace and oversized armchairs from where you can admire the original works.
Voted Australia’s ‘Leading Boutique Hotel’ by the World Travel Awards, the hotel has 40 suites of contemporary oriental design.
Being obsessed with getting a good night’s sleep, it was reassuring to know that the high quality mattress and non-allergenic pillows were in addition (or instead) of the pillows that dressed the bed. The choice was wide: feather and down, contour, anti-ageing and rubber core foam. Opting for the anti-ageing pillow, for obvious reasons, I had a comfortable, dreamless night’s sleep – but didn’t look any younger for it!
OVERLOOKING Glebe Park in the nation’s capital, Crowne Plaza’s central location places it within two minutes’ walk from Canberra’s National Convention Centre and near the city’s many shops, lively bars and restaurants.
Parliament House is three kilometres away, explore artistic treasures at Australia’s National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, look at walking routes around the shimmering waters of Lake Burley Griffin and the chime of the National Carillon and the Captain Cook Memorial fountain will be lasting memories of Canberra.
One of the best times to visit the nation’s capital is during Floriade in September.
Benefit from one of the great special summer sale packages and have a fabulous stay at the Crowne Plaza!
THERE’S no such thing as a holiday with young children that’s hassle-free. Going to the beach and staying at a seaside resort offers many options, but one is hard-pressed when it comes to staying in a hotel.
Options are further restricted if you want to stay in the vibrant heart to the city. Well, that’s not the case any more – at least, not in Sydney.
The Swissôtel Sydney, in Market Street, is one deluxe five-star hotel that is very family-friendly.
Its kids room will delight those aged two to 12 years. They’ll be transported into a children’s wonderland where the rooms are bright with an abundance of plush toys, a children’s desk, colourful bed linen, special menu of DVD programs for young ones, bath amenities for junior guests, separate play area, children amenities and much more. The room is interconnected to a separate luxurious bedroom for the parents. There’s even chocolates and milk in the mini bar fridge!
What’s more, from every kids room booking, $20 goes to the Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation.
As well, the honeymoon suite at the Swissôtel is indulgent: the rooms have spectacular views of the city, the bed is more than comfortable, bathroom is spacious, there was a Nespresso coffee machine and the room even came with a Wii!
It was the extra-special gestures that are appreciated: champagne on ice, the colourful bouquet with lilies, roses and gerberas were “really big, spectacular, and super fresh” and the chocolate-covered strawberries were a delicious touch.
To further enhance the hotel experience, have dinner at Jpb Restaurant and sample the best gastronomic feasts created by executive chef Justin Zammit.
This first-hand testimony from my newly-married son, Rajesh, and his wife, Beth, says it all: there was “really nothing about the room that wasn’t great!”
‘Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol’ stars Tom Cruise
By Rama Gaind
Film: Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol
Cast: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Paula Patton, Simon Pegg
Director: Brad Bird
In the fourth installment of the Mission Impossible series, super-spy Ethan Hunt (Cruise) accepts another assignment after a break of five years.
As a member of the IMF team, they race against time to track down a dangerous terrorist called Hendricks who is planning an attack on the US. One attempt to stop him ends in tragedy after an explosion causes severe damage to the Kremlin. This results in the president involving Ghost Protocol under which the IMF is disavowed and being offered no help or back-up.
Ethan and his team brave the odds with a fearless attitude, constantly in motion, undertaking some spectacular stunts along the way including Cruise dangling outside the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
The plot moves at break-neck speed between Budapest, Moscow, Dubai and Mumbai.
With Ghost Protocol, director Brad Bird delivers something extraordinary out of a recognisable storyline.
Cruise, who is surprisingly agile, is the real star (and the film’s executive producer), but the role of the female co-star is underplayed with Patton being one-dimensional.
However, Bollywood star Anil Kapoor is impressive in the small, but significant role of a Mumbai-based tycoon.
Puss in Boots: A delightful spin-off from the Shrek series, you will have fun trying to find out how Puss (Antonio Banderas) became an outlaw.
Arthur Christmas: A lively animated comedy in 3D, Santa’s younger son (James McAvoy) dashes across the world to deliver a misplaced present.
Restless: Gus Van Sant’s unusual, bittersweet romance for which you will need a pack of tissues. Australia’s Mia Wasikowska is a star.
Bollywood film: Don 2
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Boman Irani, Lara Dutta, Kunal Kapoor, Om Puri
Director: Farhan Akhtar
This sequel sees Shah Rukh Khan return to anti-hero roles he carried off with aplomb earlier in his career (Anjaam, Baazigar, Darr).
This character is attractive, but wicked and immoral. SRK dons several disguises from looking debonair to being dishevelled.
The intrigue surrounds a scheme involving the robbery of currency printing plates from a bank.
The Don appears in Malaysia, gets arrested in order to get convicted Vardhan (Irani) out of jail as he has the keys to a video they is used to blackmail a bank VP to get access to the security system of a German bank.
This is an action film that sees the Don’s one-man army being introduced in Thailand, then there’s the convenient escape from a Malaysian prison and some predictable car chases in Germany.
Jason West does wonders with the exotic locations with some eye-catching cinematography through the French Riviera, the jungles of Thailand, Kuala Lumpur, Zurich and Berlin.
In this heist film, the bland first hour lacks thrills, while the energetic second keeps you on the edge of the seat.
It comes in a sleek package, has witty dialogues and worthy action sequences, but it needed a tight reign on the script.
The ‘wow’ factor is missing from the music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy,even though the score has plenty of vigour.
Don 2 emulates the changing trends in Hindi cinema and redefines ‘slick’ in Bollywood.
Farhan Akhtar proves, yet again, that he is one of Hindi cinema’s stylish director/storytellers.
Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra star in ‘Don 2’.
‘The Adventures of Tintin’ has been remastered and released by Madman on DVD and Blu-Ray.
By Rama Gaind
Film: The Adventures of Tintin
Cast: Jamie Bell, Daniel Craig, Andy Serkis
Director: Steven Spielberg
FOR more than 80 years, Tintin and his loyal dog, Snowy, have been delighting readers of all ages with their adventures – garnering a legion of fans across the globe.
Now, Madman has released The Adventures of Tintin remastered on DVD and Blu-Ray for a whole new generation.
Intrepid reporter by trade, adventurer and detective by circumstance; Hergé’s Tintin is one of the world’s most popular and beloved comic book characters.
Together with Snowy, they have appeared in more than 120 million books, published in over 50 countries, and translated into 45 languages.
Featuring all 21 classic Tintin adventures across 39 episodes and five discs, The Adventures of Tintin animated series is highly-respected and fondly remembered for its authenticity which effortlessly captures the globe-trotting, adventurous spirit of the original comic books.
The intricate plotlines of the series visit a variety of genres from swashbuckling adventures on the high seas, to mystery, science fiction and political thrillers all thrown in along the way.
This is an essential pick‐up for collectors, or even the casual Tintin fan, eager for more of his escapades.
Touch of finesse
The viewing experience is more memorable knowing that Steven Spielberg is at the helm. The maestro has always been at the cutting edge of film technology and special effects.
He is ahead of the game, working alongside CGI pioneer (Lord of the Rings) producer Peter Jackson and delivering bold action sequences that exceed expectations in terms of ingenuity, boldness and creativity.
The team has been astute in replicating the sparkling, vivid look of Herge’s original comic books and the sense of humour.
It’s also worth the effort in watching the eye-catching action sequences!
‘Pom Wonderful’ and ‘Page One’ are out on DVD from Madman.
By Rama Gaind
Two insightful new documentaries, released on DVD by Madman, witnesses the collision of the world of media and marketing.
Pom Wonderful and Page One are different when it comes to the tone and subject matter, but each excels in peeling back layers of the intrinsically linked worlds of media and advertising.
From Oscar-nominated filmmaker, Morgan Spurlock (Supersize Me), Pom Wonderful: The Greatest Movie Ever Sold is a feature length documentary that was fully financed through product placement, marketing and advertising.
With his trademark wit and insight, Spurlock jumps head first into the covert world of movie marketing, allowing audiences to look into the pitch meetings and product placement presentations that ultimately inform our everyday entertainment decisions.
He has an irresistible offer for the brands involved – for the right price, he will make the entire movie about them. No questions. No catches … but before he can make good on his pitch, he will have to face the everyday trials and legal ramifications of juggling so many brands in one basket.
On the other side of the media fence sits Page One: Inside the New York Times, a timely story of the struggle to maintain the relevance and integrity of newspaper journalism within a world that is increasingly pulling away from the printed word.
Page One gains unprecedented access to The New York Times newsroom and the inner workings of the media desk as the paper’s writers, editors and publishers grapple with existential challenges from players like WikiLeaks, new platforms in Twitter and tablet computers, and readers’ expectations that online news sources should be free.
Page One skillfully paints a nuanced portrait of journalists continuing to produce extraordinary work—under increasingly difficult circumstances. At the heart of the film is the burning question on the minds of everyone who cares about a rigorous press: what will happen if the fast-moving future of media leaves behind the fact-based, original reporting that helps to define our society?
Both films have to be seen to gain some shrewd insight.
A swag of SBS program (now available on DVD from Madman) are among nominations for the inaugural Australian Academy Cinema Television Arts Awards (Samsung AACTA Awards – formerly the AFI Awards) which were announced earlier this month.
The program are East West 101, Rockwiz and Immigration Nation, as well as The Tall Man, coming to DVD, 8 February, 2012.
The Tall Man has taken out four nominations in the feature-length documentary category including Best Feature Length Documentary.
Based on Chloe Hooper’s award-winning book, and from the makers of First Australians,The Tall Man is the story of Cameron Doomadgee, a resident of the tropical paradise of Palm Island who swore at a police officer one morning and lay dead in a prison cell 40 minutes later. It is also the story of that policeman – the tall, enigmatic Christopher Hurley and the struggle to bring him to trial.
Review of The Tall Man
A convincingly sad story, this film did not receive the attention that it was its due.
Adapted for the screen by Tony Krawitz, The Tall Man vividly hones in on life in the Palm Island community. In so doing, it draws outrage over the investigation into the death of Cameron Doomadgee, who was taken into custody and on entering the police station supposedly tripped. He was found dead with horrific injuries in his cell. The death of Cameron Doomadgee in the Palm Island police station in 2004 was tragic.
Many a court case has dealt with the numerous accounts of how he sustained those injuries.
This is an important film, in a fine documentary style, that has been dealt with sensitively.
The Tall Man was also recently awarded the prestigious Walkley Award for Excellence in Documentary. The Walkley Foundation introduced this new award category for Australia’s most highly regarded media accolades in 2011, as a part of the celebrations in the centenary of Australian journalism.
Other titles
Immigration Nation: The Secret History of Us, SBS’ in-depth exploration of our untold immigration story and the dramatic saga of how modern Australia came to be, has also picked up a nomination in the Best Documentary series category.
In the television category, the third series of the rivetting Sydney-based crime drama, East West 101 (which has taken out numerous AFI Awards in the past), has received four nominations in total, including Best Television Drama Series and Best Lead Actor in a Television Drama.
Meanwhile, Australia’s longest-running music trivia series, and also previous AFI Award winner, Rockwiz, took out a nomination in the Best Light Entertainment Television Series.
The winners will be announced at a red carpet ceremony to be held in Sydney and broadcast on the Nine Network on January 31, 2012.
Men and women suffer from osteoporosis. It can be prevented and treated, but it is often called the silent disease because bone loss occurs without symptoms. You may not know you have osteoporosis till your bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump or fall causes a fracture or a vertebra to collapse.
Early diagnosis is the key to prevent osteoporosis. Unfortunately, people believe they need not worry about osteoporosis until they are old. Many people in their early forty’s and less are now victims of this debilitating disease.
Estimation:
The national osteoporosis foundation of USA estimates that by 2035, countries like India and China will have the largest osteoporosis population in the world. One out of every two women and one in eight men over the age of fifty will have an osteoporosis related fracture in their lifetime.
The older you are, the more you are at risk of developing osteoporosis, as your bones become weaker and less dense as you age. Family history can also play an influential part in developing osteoporosis. Susceptibility to fracture may be, in part, hereditary. People whose parents have a history of fractures also seem to have reduced bone mass and may be at risk for fractures. Small, thin-boned women are at a greater risk of developing osteoporosis. Your chances of developing osteoporosis are greater if you are a woman. Women have less bone tissue and lose bone more rapidly than men because of the changes involved in menopause. Asian women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis as compared to African, American Russian and Latino women.
Detecting osteoporosis:
The DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) Bone Densitometry Scan in considered the gold standard in accurate and reliable diagnosis of osteoporosis. A fast simple examination, it is non-invasive, has minimal radiation exposure, high reproducibility and can measure bone mineral density at multiple sites.
The results of the DEXA bone density scan can:
a. Detect low bone density before a fracture occurs.
b. Confirm an osteoporosis diagnosis if you already have a fracture.
c. Predict your chances of fracturing in the future.
d. Determine your rate of bone loss and or monitor the effects of treatment if the test is conducted at intervals of a year or more.
Other methods of detecting osteoporosis include:
The Quantitative Computer Tomography, QCT, The Quantitative Ultra Sonography, QUS,. The QCT cannot take measurements of the hip. It has a high radiation doze and is costly. The QUS is inexpensive, radiation free and a very quick way to measure bone mass density. But due to poor precision, it must be complimented with DEXA scan before commencing on any long term treatment.
Detecting osteoporosis through X-rays is usually a subjective assessment, and the diagnosis cannot always be relied upon.
Camili Smith is a Medical Student and a freelancer who is specialized in writing. He is associated with many Pharmacies for whom he writes articles based on generic drugs and general health related issues. For more : http://www.zeepharmacy.com
Ranbir Kapoor and Nargis Fakhri star in 'Rockstar'.
Film reviews
By Rama Gaind
Film: RA.One
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Shahana Goswami, Armaan Verma
Director: Anubhav Sinha
This overloaded sci-fi super hero film from Bollywood does actually have a story.
A geeky gaming expert, Shekhar Subramaniam (Shah Rukh Khan), rustles up a digital game to impress his son, Prateek (Armaan Verma).
It begins playing games and unleashes a malicious power, RA.One (Random Access One) and turns upon its creator and devours him.
There’s a touch of Bollywood thrown in for good measure with superhero G.One (jeevan, life force) who must protect Shekhar’s wife (Kareena) and his son and restore the reign of good over evil.
It delivers pure entertainment, is technically sound, has impressive cinematography and some toe-tapping musical numbers, but you take away flimsy impact.
While this Bollywood film captures the magic of A.R. Rahman’s music, it misses out on the power of love.
It is the story of a young man Janardan (Kapoor) who is struggling to find himself both spiritually and artistically. He meets Heer (Fakhri) as students in college in Delhi.
As he begins ways to hone his talents – guitar in hand – Janardan (nicknamed Jordan) sings to any audience, thereby, providing the high point scenes of this film.
Rahman’s inspired music and convincing guitar and vocal performances by Kapoor are dampened by the lacklustre performance from Fakhri, a New York-born model of Pakistani and Czech descent.
The love story is disjointed and unexpected from from director Ali after his earlier hits, Jab We Met (2007) and Love Aaj Kal (2009).
* * * * * * * * * *
The Debt: A cracking pace is set for this thriller which stars Helen Mirren, Sam Worthington and Jessica Chastain about Israeli agents pursuing a Nazi war criminal.
Midnight in Paris: In a charming fantasy from Woody Allen, a would-be novelist (Owen Wilson) travels back in time and meets his literary and artistic idols.
Drive: This is a stylish heist thriller, complete with violence, starring Ryan Gosling, with a surprisingly menacing take from Albert Brooks.
Contagion: A deadly pandemic ravages the world in this level-headed disaster flick starring Matt Damon and a host of (coughing) stars.
Don’t Know How She Does It: The woes of being a working motherunfold in this lighthearted comedy which stars Sarah Jessica Parker.
'The Debt' is a thriller which stars Helen Mirren and Sam Worthington.
The spacious lounge and dining areas in the penthouse at the Diamant Hotel, in Potts Point, has a balcony for expansive views.
By RAMA GAIND
IT’S very easy to feel on top of the world – at the Diamant Hotel in Sydney, especially when it comes to soaking up the urban vibe – in the luxury penthouse.
Overlooking the city’s skyline and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the 12th floor, three-bedroom penthouse combines contemporary luxury living with rock star glamour, located moments from Sydney’s most vibrant quarter.
Designed by renowned architects Burley Katon Halliday, the state-of-the-art entertainment systems, floor-to-ceiling windows, sun-drenched living spaces and private access with high-tech security creates an oasis in the sky for the sophisticated world traveller.
The Diamant is located in the heart of Kings Cross, Potts Point and Darlinghurst triangle, offering Sydney’s biggest and eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, cafés and nightclubs.
The three bedrooms are designed with practicality in mind: the lounge room, in the middle is flanked on the one side by two bedrooms, each with their own en-suite bathrooms, a massive kitchen (almost of commercial proportions) and the main bedroom which has its own separate wing with a spacious en-suite bathroom with spa bath, powder room and a smaller balcony.
Comfort is of the essence here. The lounge room and dining area are open plan with room for a 10-seater dining table. The adjoining balcony with sweeping views is a magnificent vantage point to watch the sunrise and sunset.
The kitchen is a chef’s delight: with huge preparation table, cooking hotplates, dishwasher and hot water. Views from the kitchen take in Rushcutters Bay and Double Bay.
If you don’t want to cook, the penthouse comes with a butler service, on request, and is available for short- or long-term accommodation, product launches, photo shoots, private dinners and memorable occasions.
The main bedroom was amazing: walk-in bathroom, ‘his’ and ‘hers’ hand basins, separate shower and toilet and a spa bath. The firm mattress and pillows on the king size bed made for a good night’s rest. That long line of built-in cupboards – wow – I want them in my home!
Abundant adventures
My adventurous streak was stroked beyond expectations during my short stay in Potts Point.
One of the trendiest suburbs in Sydney, just 3km east of the CBD, this stylish suburb is wedged between ritzy Elizabeth Bay, iconic Woolloomooloo and nightclub mecca Kings Cross. Said to have one of the highest population densities in Australia, Potts Point is a snakes and ladders patchwork of historic mansions converted to quaint guesthouses, intimate waterholes, eateries and fashion outlets.
Minutes walk to Oxford Street, Darling Hour, Circular Quay, CBD, Chinatown, cinemas, shops, St Vincent’s Hospital, galleries and Kings Cross Station.
The streets are tree-lined, pavements are wide and you get a hint of Euro-style urban elegance.
Stroll down Macleay Street, and Potts Point’s lavish history jumps to life. Named after banker Joseph Potts, elaborate Georgian manors were built on large blocks of land, later to be pulled down in the 1930s to make way for a distinctive new architectural style – art deco.
Make your way down to Orwell Street for a look at the gorgeous art deco building in The Metro which originally showed the groundbreaking musical, Hair, in the 1960s.
Walk to Challis Street for a cluster of great dining out options and continue into Victoria Street’s Embarkation Park that offers views and a chance to commune with nature in the heart of the city.
Whatever you do, a visit to this sophisticated little suburb is sure to be a highlight of your Sydney stay.
Pampered beyond belief, it was unfortunate that I stayed at the Diamant on my own. Come with your family and make it your base for the 2012 Sydney Festival – a three-week celebration of music, dance, opera, theatre and art – between January 7-29, 2012.
Mary Poppins, the musical
Make the hotel your base if you are looking for another type of entertainment and go see Mary Poppins – The Supercalifragilistic Musical at the Capitol Theatre, in Sydney.
A splendid adaptation of the beloved books by Australia’s own P.L.Travers and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, the spectacular production includes all of the best- loved songs from the film including Chim Chim Cher-Ee, A Spoonful of Sugar, Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Feed the Birds and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and new classics like Practically Perfect and Anything Can Happen.
Mary Poppins features an impeccable Australian cast including Matt Lee best-known for his judging role on the hugely successful So You Think You Can Dance, Philip Quast, Debra Byrne, Judi Connelli, Sally-Anne Upton, David Henry and Christopher Rickerby and after an extensive Australia-wide search for the practically perfect nanny, Verity Hunt-Ballard in the title role.
It’s a magical world with commendable performances.
The musical will play at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, in Brisbane in January 2012 before going to Perth in March.
Swissôtel Sydney, in Market Street, where the Christmas celebrations are on in earnest for 2011.
By Rama Gaind
CHRISTMAS is all about giving, caring and sharing and it will be a month full of warmth, love, colour and joyful laughter as Swissôtel Sydney with its inaugural Christmas Tree of Hope Charity Program until December 24, 2011.
The Christmas Tree of Hope Charity Program aims to grant the Christmas wishes of disadvantaged children around Australia with the assistance of charitable organisation – A Start in Life. 250 simple and endearing wish cards, handwritten by the children, are hung on the hotel’s almost 6 metre Christmas tree in the lobby.
The public and hotel guests are encouraged to grant these affordable, heartwarming Christmas wishes by picking one or two or as many wishes from the tree to put a smile on the faces of the children.
A dedicated Christmas Wish Counter is available from 10am to 5pm at the hotel lobby on Level 8 until Christmas Eve to assist guests in the wish granting process. All presents received will be sent to the children with the help of A Start in Life.
According to the general manager of Swissôtel Sydney, Daniel Fueglister, “We are just as excited as the children and their families to be able to make their Christmas dreams come true. The Christmas Tree of Hope Program is a unique one as its main objective is to give the children exactly what they want for Christmas. With wishes as simple as a soft toy or a gift card, we do hope to be able to fulfill all 250 wishes and make this charity program an annual event”.
Spirit of Christmas
A Christmas tree, the largest gingerbread house in the city and feasts fit for royalty.
Crackling fireplaces and white snowy rooftops are not exactly what you would expect to see in Sydney, but the spirit of Christmas is obvious at Swissôtel Sydney as the hotel showcases the city’s largest gingerbread house and a bejewelled Christmas Tree until December 25, 2011 along with a host of other festive activities. Stumble upon a child’s dream come true at the hotel lobby on Level 8 and discover the city’s largest gingerbread house deliciously decorated with giant gingerbread tiles.
At 2 metres tall, the gingerbread house is a life-size play house the little ones can call their own. Adjacent to the gingerbread house stands an almost 6 metre bejewelled Christmas tree with 250 hand- written wish cards bearing the Christmas wishes from disadvantaged children living in Australia. Aptly named The Christmas Tree of Hope, their simple and endearing wishes are open to be granted by hotel guests and the public and can be done at the hotel’s Wish Counter also located at the hotel lobby.
Not to be missed out, the warm sense of the festive cheer is abundant at Jpb Restaurant and Crossroads Bar. Get a taste of festive joy over a selection of Swissôtel Sydney’s very own honey flavoured Christmas cocktails or indulge in a hearty mug of eggnog at Crossroads Bar from December 12-25.
Yuletide favourites
Serving up a charming spread of Yuletide favourites, Jpb Restaurant’s Christmas Eve set dinner and Christmas Day buffets are a gastronomic affair. Enjoy an intimate Christmas Eve celebration over a well deserved 3-course Christmas set dinner priced at $80 for adults and $40 for children or opt for a lighter option of a 2-course set dinner at $65 for adults and $34 for children. The Christmas Eve set dinner menus include dishes such as Kervella goats curd wrapped in katifi pastry with beetroot carpaccio and cabernet sauvignon dressing, Berkshire pork belly with pickled baby vegetables and brioche farce and White chocolate pannacotta with lychee and raspberry salad.
To celebrate the season of joy, Jpb Restaurant’s lunch and dinner buffet spread on Christmas Day will ensure guests have a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary Christmas favourites ranging from fresh seafood choices and traditional Christmas fare that include organic turkey with cranberry pan juices, Tasmanian smoked salmon with preserved lemon, chives and baby capers, chilled Gold Coast tiger prawns with dippers and squeezers and blanched asparagus with poached egg, shaved parmesan and lemon oil salad.
To end on a sweet note, a dessert wonderland of Christmas pudding with brandy custard, warm mince pie with kirsch butter and Lindt chocolate fountain, to name a few treats. The Christmas Day buffet lunch and dinner is priced at $105 for adults and $55 for children. Be sure to look out for Santa as he makes a special appearance during lunch with a bag filled with goodies for the little ones.
Donate to the Christmas Tree of Hope Charity Program and book now for Christmas Eve dinner and Jpb Restaurant’s lunch and dinner buffet on Christmas Day. You’ll be so glad you did!
DETAILS
Swissôtel Sydney
68 Market Street
Sydney NSW 2000
(02) 9238 8828
www.swissotel.com/sydney
Traditional Christmas fare at the Swissôtel Sydney, in Market Street.
Executive chef Justin Zammit at the Swissôtel Sydney.
Executive chef Justin Zammit at the Swissôtel Sydney.
By RAMA GAIND
MARRIAGES, anniversaries and birthdays are among special occasions that become more memorable if you celebrate them in lavish surrounds. One such venue is the Swissôtel Sydney.
In the heart of the city, in Market Street, the honeymoon suite (for my newly-married son and his wife) was very indulgent. The spacious rooms had spectacular views of the city and as they said, “we really felt like we were in the thick of things”.
The bathroom was huge, the bed was more than comfortable and it was the extra-special gestures that were most appreciated: champagne on ice, the colourful bouquet with lilies, roses and gerberas were “really big, spectacular, and super fresh” and the chocolate-covered strawberries were a delicious touch.
There was a Nespresso coffee machine too and the room even came with a Wii!
The newlyweds said, “There was really nothing about the room that wasn’t great!”
What’s more, if you stay at the Swissôtel you will get to sample the best gastronomic feasts created by executive chef Justin Zammit.
Good culinary techniques
Justin is not only the executive chef, but he is also a pragmatist who is aware of the pitfalls of the hospitality industry and the need to be one step ahead of the rest.
With 15 years in the industry, Justin has travelled the world, has banqueting experience, has developed a passion and knowledge for French cuisine and prides himself on his high-quality cooking techniques.
Justin feels that one of the most important things about creating new and innovative dishes is to treat each ingredient with respect while honing good culinary techniques you can call your own.
“People are educated about food these days,” Justin said. “We are on the cutting edge … in a competitive market you have to be at the top of your game, if you want to cut the mustard.”
While serving “trendy, modern, classic cuisine”, it is also important for him to ensure “not to over-complicate food, it should be good quality, simple, clean and healthy”.
While corporate business forms the main core of guests at Swissôtel, Justin is conscious that “it’s important to attract new business”.
Scrumptious high tea
One popular attraction at Swissôtel is partaking of high tea. It is trendy. During a week day it is a tier service that starts with a glass of champagne followed by an excellent selection of sandwiches, tea or coffee and the sweets include a delicious array of scones and jam, trifle, profiteroles, donut, brulee and much more.
“It’s very popular, we do up to 60-70 covers a day and Swissotel is the only hotel that does it on the weekend,” Justin said.
“The chocolate fountain is very popular … it’s not surprising to be reminded of Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory … and that evokes emotions of the child inside you. There’s also basil cake, gin and tonic lollipop, even a candy buffet can be requested!
Jpb Restaurant has a seasonal menu that doesn’t stay static, but is constantly reviewed.
“If a dish is on the menu and not popular we replace it with something else. We pick on the strengths of clients and develop what they want. It’s all about demographics.”
Justin’s ‘biggest inspiration’
It was his grandmother who instilled the love of food in him. “She was my biggest inspiration.”
Food is a particular art and chefs are “left of centre”. With an Italian background, food was a part of his everyday life.
“You have to find new ways of winning diners over. In a market where new hotels and restaurants are opening their doors and hospitality enterprises are vying for your share of the business, you have to learn to stay ahead of the game.”
Justin is big on introducing new ideas. Presentation is aesthetically pleasing because you “eat first with your eyes”.
His epicurean hands are able to whip up wondrous recipes from combinations of solid base enhanced with unique ingredients to create a gastronomical wonder that’s built around creativity.
Justin has artfully shaped an authentic menu inspired by the region, using the freshest and finest of Australian and imported produce.
Justin is also a forward planner: with two children under three years of age, he is also conscious of the need to look at options for the future. He has achieved professional qualifications which will give him options in food and beverage management or to teach at TAFE.
WaiOra Hellsgate, Rotorua, where you get to traverse the geothermal park and bathe in the mud pools. Photo: Rama GaindThe main entrance to Te Puia, in Rotorua, is called Te Heketanga a Rangi (heavenly origins). Twelve monumental contemporary carvings reach skywards, each representing a celestial guardian in Te Arawa culture.
By RAMA GAIND
HOW can one particular travel experience take centre stage when there were so many unforgettable moments in New Zealand? Both north and south islands are immense, lusciously green and feature diverse landscapes.
The changing countryside will amaze: within a day or two’s drive you can see rugged mountains, picturesque fiords, spectacular glaciers, rolling hillsides, vast plains, subtropical forest, volcanic plateau and miles of coastline with gorgeous sandy beaches.
Much of these landscapes are protected by National Parks with thousands of kilometres of walks and trails opening their beauty to the public.
Here is a thumbnail sketch of some of the highlights I just experienced in Christchurch Canterbury and the Banks Peninsula followed by Rotorua and the Hamilton Waikato region.
Garden City of Christchurch
South island’s largest city, Christchurch reveals heritage of early English settlers in the architecture of older buildings. The Garden City pulsates with positive vibes: rebuilding and moving forward from the devastating earthquakes earlier this year.
CEO of Christchurch Canterbury Tourism Tim Hunter is optimistic about the future. An estimated $30 billion is being put into the reconstruction program.
Apart from the Christchurch Cathedral, other prominent places of interest include the beautiful Neo-Gothic Arts Centre, Canterbury Museum and the Botanical Gardens. These gardens are an oasis in the city featuring more than 50 acres of beautiful horticultural displays, several conservatories, memorials, garden art and walking tracks.
You have to see the Botanic Gardens from the Avon River onboard an Edwardian punt followed by unwinding at the Peppers Clearwater Resort. Make your way to Governor’s Bay and discover the magic of SHE Chocolat and tantalise your sweet tooth.
Be dazzled by the beautiful harbours, volcanic hills and passes and hidden bays as you make your way to Akaroa on the Banks Peninsula. Here you get a chance to marvel at the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, little blue penguins and a myriad of bird life. Lake Ellesmere (Te Waihora) and Lake Forsyth (Te Waiwera) is home to over 100 species of local and migratory birds.
Freshen up at the Akaroa Village Inn, then take lessons from Lou and Ant Bentley from the Akaroa Cooking School who have put their heart and soul into this venture.
The Giant’s House is a historic residence with original artworks, terraced gardens with sculptures and mosaics that are the brainchild of Josie Martin. Visit the Canterbury Museum and see real fun, cool, design exhibits together with ‘real’ people.
Back in Christchurch stay at the Huntley Lodge that’s set in park-like gardens in a tranquil, secluded environment, offering all the charms of yesteryear, combined with modern luxuries.
Rotorua highlights
Rotorua straddles two tectonic plates and sits on the Pacific Rim of Fire which has resulted in some spectacular geothermal areas and volcanoes, some of which are still active. You can see this geothermal activity close up with spouting geysers, hot water and bubbling mud pools.
An authentic introduction to Maori culture awaits you at the Mitai Maori Village. Then visit Te Puia, New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, where the traditional welcome – the Powhiri – is an exciting start to the evening. Be thrilled by the challenge of Maori warriors or the spine-tingling cry of Maori women as they welcome you in their powerful and time-honoured way.
Be in awe as you explore the heart of Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, with Pohutu geyser illuminated as a natural and spectacular backdrop.
For fine dining, fine wine, good company and fabulous entertainment make a point of visiting the Spanish mission-style Blue Baths, set in the tranquil beauty of Rotorua’s Government Gardens.
Holiday Inn Rotorua is ideal for a convention with great views of the renowned Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and Historic Village.
A guided tour by KiaOra Guided City Walks around Government Gardens proved enlightening. The pace picked up slightly at redwood forest (Whakarewarewa) after participating in a guided mountain bike tour. We also traversed the geothermal park and bathed in the mud pools at WaiOra Hellsgate. Comforting.
Amazing Hamilton Waikato
As you drive to Hamilton on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, be amazed at the world-famous Glowworm and Ruakuri caves, enjoy a lamb burger at HuHu Café and after dinner at the Smith & McKenzie Restaurant, a vibrant New York-style steak house, spend the night at Kingsgate Hotel.
An hour’s drive the next morning gets you to Raglan, a popular destination for artists, surfers and local weekend holidaymakers alike. See the town on a Bike 2 Bay tour, cruise on the ‘Wahinemoe’ partaking of a barbecue lunch, be fascinated by the knowledge that Charlie Young, director of Discover Raglan, has amassed and be stunned by the rugged scenery and Whaingaroa harbour.
Travel to Manu Bay in an electric bus to see the famous surfbreak. This is followed by a 17-kilometre quadbike safari … for the first-time ever. Couldn’t have done it without the confidence boost from Percy Kukutai and Dennis Holland!
After my nerves were calm, the sumptuous dinner at Orca went down well, followed by a good night’s rest at the Raglan Sunset Motel.
Raglan Scenic Tours took us to view Bridal Veil Falls, a spectacular 55-metre cascade near Raglan that’s set in a beautiful native bush reserve.
En route to Rotorua International Airport a lunch stop in quirky Tirau uncovers funky corrugated iron animals and sculptures.
This was an unbelievable, ever-memorable, welcome to New Zealand. Kia Ora!
Rama Gaind was a guest of Tourism New Zealand, Destination Rotorua Marketing and Hamilton & Waikato Tourism
DETAILS BOX
Getting there
Air New Zealand has regular flights from Australia to New Zealand. Check out the website at:
The undulating, lusciously green countryside in Hamilton Waikato, New Zealand. Photo: Rama GaindBridal Veil Falls, a spectacular 55-metre cascade near Raglan. Photo: Rama Gaind
