1. INTRODUCING
DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH | THE FORGOTTEN MUSICIAN | CONTOUR THE LOOK | FASHION
IS A TWO WAY STREET | MELBOURNE WRITERS FESTIVAL | THE BEGINNING OF A GREAT
END | COMMUNITY RADIO | CORK PRODUCTIONS | LIGHTS, CAMERA, WHAT’S NEXT?
| O’GRADY STUDENT FILM | LEARNING TO STAND UP | THE PURRRFECT TRANSITION |
5. editor’s letter
Here at Intro, we understand the plight
young people with talent face: not having
your voice heard, not being taken seriously and
blending in with the crowd. We know because
we’ve been there.
This month’s edition of Introducing is focused
on shedding light on up-and-coming talent that
Melbourne has to offer, but in a way that ensures
the talent will stand out.
Whether you’re a musician, an artist, a writer or
anything in between, we want you. We want to
show you off to the rest of Melbourne and we
want you to succeed.
Remember: if you can dream it, you can do it.
Intro xx
contents
Stephanie Atkins
DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH
Michelle Smith
THE FORGOTTEN MUSICIAN: THE
BUSKER
Rebecca Antouri
CONTOUR THE LOOK
Michelle Smith
FASHION IS A TWO-WAY STREET
Alana Cuce
MELBOURNIANS WRITE FOR THE
WORLD
Rebecca Antouri
THE BEGINNING OF A GREAT END
Jacqueline Papas
WELCOME TO CORK
Jacqueline Papas
COMMUNITY RADIO; OR, HOW TO
MAKE YOUR BROADCAST DREAMS
COME TRUE
Daniel O’Kelly
DIRECTING A CAREER
Stephanie Atkins
THE PURRRFECT TRANSITION
Alana Cuce
LIGHTS, CAMERA, WHAT’S NEXT?
Daniel O’Kelly
LEARNING TO STAND UP
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40
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48
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6. MEET THE TEAM
Michelle Smith undertook a Communications degree at La
Trobe University and is now the editor of Intro Magazine.
She is an avid fan of music, being a musician herself. She
started singing lessons at a young age and is a self-taught
guitar player. She also likes to keep tabs on the fashion world;
always knowing what the latest trends is each season. She loves
to style her friends and family for special occasions and has
also worked in retail for more than two years. Her role in this
month’s Intro showcases her love for both fashion and music
with an article that delves into the world of fashion and a piece
on buskers in Melbourne.
After completing a Bachelor of Strategic
Communication, Jacqueline Papas began her first year
out of University at Intro. She has a keen interest in
anything related to the arts and partakes in hobbies
such as drawing, creative writing, and music. Jacqueline
enjoys seeking out new talent. She loves writing
about people – whether they’re famous or unknown -
particularly those striving to reach their goals. She is
currently working her way up to an editorial position at
Intro.
Alana Cuce is a journalist with a passion for the creative
art. She enjoys attending music festivals artistic festivals
and writing reviews for theatrical productions. Her passion,
though, lies with writing about up-and-coming talent in
the film television industry. Alana enjoys learning about
people’s stories of success and hopes that he articles
inspire people to follow their creative dreams. She is also
an enthusiastic reader and enjoys writing reviews on
Australian authors. She promotes writers’ festivals and has
recently worked with Melbourne Web Fest. When she isn’t
writing, Alana enjoys movies, singing and playing the piano.
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7. We pride ourselves on delivering
content you want to read.
After beginning his time at Intro as an intern, Daniel O’Kelly
has quickly become one of the most respected journalists in
the magazine, adding a much-needed hit of testosterone
to a predominately female crew. Daniel co-runs a media
company, Cork Productions. At the magazine, his roles
revolve largely around comedy acts (varying from stand
up comedy and improvisational comedy shows) and
different stage shows around Melbourne. However, he
is more of a sit-down kind of “comedy” act without the
funniness.
Rebecca Antouri is a young and motivated journalist
with the passion for writing. Her interest include sitting
on the beach in the soft sand with a pen and book,
writing down her next bright idea. Apart from working
towards the next best seller, Rebecca also uses her
creative mind for Intro Magazine. She focuses on fashion
and the younger generation, enjoying interviewing talent
more than anything. “Interviewing people for my stories
is the best part of my job because they are what makes
my writing better.”
With a love for the English language, Stephanie Atkins’
passion for writing began as a young child. Now, she is
Intro’s music journalist but has covered many topics
ranging from sport to conservation. She has interviewed
internationally renowned figures including UFC
President Dana White and world-class models, the
Stenmark twins, Jordan and Zac. Stephanie is widely
travelled– she has dived with great white sharks in South
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8.
9. music
Music is the movement of sound to reach the soul for the education of its
virtue - Plato
10.
11. diamonds in the rough
Introducing the Diamonds of Neptune. Melbourne is never deprived
of musical ability, but the Diamonds of Neptune is a new breed of
sweet-sounding talent.
Writer & Photographer:
Stephanie Atkins
12. Hey, doesn’t it rain diamonds on Neptune?” singer
Matthew James Whitbourne asked the boys back
in 2012 when they were trying to form a band. The
rest, they say, is history.
Admittedly, they began creating tunes to stand out
from the crowd after becoming wearied from hearing
the same kind of metal-inspired music.
The indie-dream-rock band is a concoction of spacey
tones and melodies that create a hypnotising dulcet.
The Diamonds of Neptune is comprised of five young
men. The team leader and powerful vocalist Matthew
James Whitbourne, brings humour and spontaneity to
the group.
Guitarist, driving force and “musical brain behind
the whole operation” Adriaan Troise, is the adhesive
sound, which brings the band together.
Annthoni Motti, keyboard/synth player who adds
“absolute ridiculousness” and creates a soothing,
mystic vibe the band is known for.
Drummer Kynan Borthwick brings organisation,
passion, heart and energy, as well as adding an element
of euphonic depth and balance.
The chilled-out bass player Alex Newton, fills the void
the band initially lacked in 2012.
The lyrics to It Is What It Is tell of how Matthew and
Adriaan initiated the band and then added Kynan and
Annthoni.
“We’ve got two more, we got to four. We still need one
more, we need one more.”
The lyrics also tell of Alex’s discovery:
“Now we’re five; we are complete. We have found the
missing piece.”
The differing talents and distinct sounds of each
member allows for rare and mesmerising harmonies.
There is an air of chaos amongst them, however that
is controlled by a common passion: a synchronicity of
driven young men who want to be noticed.
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“
13. From humble beginnings recording in a band room
at La Trobe University to jamming at Abbotsford’s
Laneway Studios, the Diamonds of Neptune are now
routine musicians in and around Brunswick and
Fitzroy. They are also fast becoming an often-heard
name on Triple J radio.
The band has made film clips to accompany their
music, with the clip for Fruit Tingles (Into the Fall)
debuting on YouTube.
Kynan taught himself how to play the drums, telling
Intro being in a band requires patience, tolerance,
repetition and drive.
“The band and I have come very far. I had only just
started playing drums around the time we formed –
the improvement I’ve made since then is huge.”
But there is always room for growth, and the band is
more than willing to develop and refine their skills in
order to be noticed.
The band has been receiving a lot of airtime on Triple
J radio after gaining the attention of unearthed. The
platform for up-and-coming musicians has broadcast
the band’s songs to a large audience, which has resulted
in even greater acknowledgement statewide.
With regular gigs on a Monday night at the Evelyn
Hotel Brunswick, the band is constantly developing
its repertoire, and each song is different and somehow
even better than the last.
With a love for live gigging, a stage proves to let
the jam sessions come to life. The stage is, for the
Diamonds of Neptune, the place where the hours, days
and months of work can be showcased and enjoyed by
both the artists and the audience.
Gigging and getting their name out there is the
main goal. They have a unique title, and their sound
is extremely rare, which is why they are being
remembered for all the right reasons.
Annthoni says the band is finally getting the
recognition they have worked so hard for. The
Diamonds of Neptune is a testament to the saying:
hard work really does pay off.
They plan to not only gig more regularly at local bars,
but also to tour regional and east coast Victoria.
The chilled-out, tranquil tunes these boys produce
will fit perfectly into the Panacea Festival, which will
be their first major stage. The three-day festival from
November 20 to 22 will take place at Riverview in
Tatong, Victoria. It will be affordable as well as suitable
for all ages: $129 for adults, $49 for children aged 11-
14 and children ten and under are free.
The festival will not only be music-orientated, but will
also focus on meditation, yoga, art and brazenly mad
vibes. It really will be the cure-all for the stressed-out
city resident, or just a serene getaway for the art and
music lover.
Panacea will showcase the Diamonds of Neptune’s
most popular songs, including Spiderweb, Fruit
Tingles (Into the Fall), Psychles, Denim, Bacala,
Camel, Chicka Chicka and crowd-favourite It Is What
It Is.
They laugh after naming “every song in their
repertoire” because they can’t agree on a single tune to
call their favourite. The boys are encouraging anyone
who wants to see them live to attend Panacea Festival,
with the chance to win free passes by sharing and
liking their Facebook page.
Creating more great singles and releasing another
extended play will set the band up for even more
success in the near future. With Falls Festivals in the
crosshairs, the Diamonds of Neptune is yet another
promising band to hail from Melbourne.
The adventurous, rare and raw talent the Diamonds of
Neptune has to offer is hallucinogenic. Align your soul
to the sounds. You’re sure to be mesmerised.
“We have what it takes. We just need
someone to notice us who can help us get
our name out there,” Matthew adds.
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14.
15. the forgotten musician:
the busker
Writer: Michelle Smith
INTRODUCING the most efficient way to listen
to music without having to fork over one hundred
dollars, unless you really wanted to. Buskers.
Not so hidden in the streets of Melbourne, there is no
doubt that you have come across what we like to call the
‘busker’. While the busker may not be as well known as
your Taylor Swifts or Kanye Wests, we can assure you
Melbourne is bursting with enough raw talent on the
corner of Bourke street and Collins for you to wander
down and listen to.
These two talented musicians have decided to face the
public eye of Melbourne city goers and illuminate one
of the greatest joys in life. Music.
Source: Buskers in Melbourne Faceboook page
Where to find him: Bourke Street or down near Flinders
Street Station. Bio: Born in Belgium, singer songwriter
Max Fotheringham packed up shop and made the streets of
Melbourne his stage. He recorded his first five songs in the
comfort of his own bedroom with one single microphone.
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MAX FOTHERINGHAM
16. His second album released in 2013 titled ‘Perikope’
saw Max team up with his fellow band members to
perform both his albums live around Melbourne.
His first album ‘In all Amber’ released in 2011; a solo
project which Max wrote and recorded on his own.
His second album released in 2013 titled ‘Perikope’
saw Max team up with his fellow band members to
perform both his albums live around Melbourne.
You can find Max’s music at www.higherlivingrecords.
com or follow the Amber Isles Facebook page.
Melanie J Taylor
Where to find her: Flinders Street subway. Bio: 21-year-old Melanie moved from Mansfield to Melbourne and
found herself busking five days a week.
She studied at the Victorian College of Arts, perfecting
her contemporary folk sound and live performance.
The money she earned from busking helped pay for
her studies.
Melanie prides herself on putting on a great
performance both musically and theatrically. Busking
has been one of the highlights of her life and she’s
always striving to learn and perfect her sound.
“It’s also taught me that if I’m not enjoying it, no one
else will either.” Taylor said.
Recently Melanie was nominated for title of
‘Melbourne’s Best Busker’ being the only female of the
five shortlisted.
She has performed on radio, featured in the Melbourne
Buskers Facebook page and is in many articles
showcasing the best in street performing.
Melanie’s dream is to one-day tour and collaborate
with other musicians but for now the Melbourne
streets is where she expresses herself.
There is no doubt you have to applaud these musicians
in having the courage and confidence to perform live
music in front of people, majority who don’t even turn
to look. So make sure to keep an eye out for that lonely
busker, he or she might one day be commanding a
stadium.
As they always say, from small beginnings come great
things.
Max’s mix of simple acoustic melodies
combined with his soulful vocals creates a
hauntingly beautiful sound sure to make
one sit back and reflect. Featured on the
Melbourne Buskers Facebook page with videos of him
on Youtube taken by passers by, Max is slowly gaining
recognition for his work. He is the guitarist of the
newly formed group the ‘Amber Isles’ who occasionally
accompany him when busking. They tend to play in bars
around Melbourne.
His first album ‘In all Amber’ released in 2011; a solo
project which Max wrote and recorded on his own.
16
Source:HeraldSun
20. INTRODUCING Nadine Karaan, a young makeup
enthusiast, aiming to contour the look.
Karaan says, “Makeup is my life. It’s not about looking
fake or like Barbie doll, it’s about having control over
myself. Being able to give myself a look, but still know
it’s me underneath.”
Coming into her teen years, Karaan began applying
simple makeup to her face with whatever she found in
her mum’s drawers. As she got older, she discovered
her interests and talents in makeup and that’s where
she put her steady hands to good use.
Karaan says, “Most of what I knew was self-taught.
YouTube tutorials were my main focus as they taught
me all the basics I needed to know.”
At the beginning of the year, Karaan enrolled into
Beauty EDU to further her knowledge and abilities.
Karaan says, “Beauty EDU taught me everything I
needed to know. Throughout my studies I bought
everything. My room is full of all the makeup I need
and my business is building slowly. At the moment I
am sitting on a minimum of three clients a week and
for me it isn’t a job, it’s a hobby.”
The new look of Melbourne is becoming more
attractive by the day. Girls are applying the new
‘contouring’ look on a night out and buying the
famous brands of Melbourne daily.
Stores such as Inglot, Napoleon Perdis, The body Shop
and Mac, are a few of the many places that young
girls and professionals like Karaan are getting their
products from. Karaan says, “I use so many different
brands. My favourite is definitely Mac, but with the
amount I have bought over the years I have lost count.”
The most famous and dazzling look breaking the
hearts of many boys is the contouring technique,
which is putting many cheekbones on point.
With the right makeup, anyone can get a gorgeous
contour look, just like the perfect definition of Kim
Kardashian’s face in every selfie. Here are five easy
steps to a flawless face:
“We have what it takes. We just need someone to
notice us who can help us get our name out there,”
Matthew adds.
contour the lookWriter & Photographer: Rebecca Antouri
20
21. 1. Apply foundation to your face, blending it in
throughout the whole face.
2. With a dark foundation stick, mark your cheekbones,
the sides of your forehead, and the edge of your jawline.
Once that is done, use a damped beauty blender to blend
it in.
3. With a concealer or a lighter foundation stick, mark
under your eyes, the centre of your forehead and your
chin. Then again blend it with the marvellous beauty
blender.
4. To soften the touch, brush through a powder set onto
your whole face.
5. Last but not least, use a bronzer over the parts of your
face you blended in the dark foundation.
And just like that, you’re your own makeup artist. So if
you have a party around the corner, or a night out with
friends, you know what to do.
Karaan says., “To me, there is more to my job than simply
doing a girls makeup. I love to share what I know−to
teach people and help them to look their best. Anyone
can be a beautician, you just have to love it like I do.”
We have what it takes.
We just need someone to
notice us who can help us
get our name out there.
“
”
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22.
23.
24. fashion is a two-way street
The fashion industry is worth over a trillion dollars, but who are the individuals that
create the foundation for which this multi-faceted phenomenon continues to flourish?
Writer: Michelle Smith
With Melbourne Spring Fashion Week fast
approaching, you can’t help but wonder how
much of our lives is to do with fashion? Even the
Melbourne Cup is more about who is wearing what
than the actual race itself.
It’s ultimately hard not to be sucked into the glitz
and glamour of it all. Yet behind this huge theatrical
show is the workers that pour their heart and soul
into making what the fashion world is today.
The Australian fashion industry employs over a
thousand workers every year and there are many
young hopefuls looking to gain their foot in the
door. With the industry being so huge, the plethora
of different roles is vast. Yet there are two stand out
occupations that are at the forefront of this industry.
The model and the designer.
The number of fashion designers in Australia has
risen by around 66% since 1991 according to the
Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Whilst The Australian Governments Job Outlook
website states employment for fashion designers is
expected to grow by November 2019.
Stephanie Kenta is a 21-year-old student
completing an associate degree in Fashion Design
at RMIT. She has had a strong interest in fashion
since she was a little girl.
“I’ve always enjoyed art but found the message that
I wanted to convey, didn’t exactly come across in
my paintings. When I started to make clothing, I
found instant satisfaction that what I could imagine
could form into reality.”
the model the designer
“I love the industry,
and everything
it’s about. I love
being able to
express myself in
a form of art with
photographs.”
- CASSIDY-RAE
MCGILL
“The fact that my
feelings could
be expressed in
clothing made me
think; I had found
‘it’. The thing I was
meant to do[...]”
- STEPHANIE
KENTA
24
Sketches from Steph’s folio
25. There’s no question that being a fashion designer you
need some sort of creative edge to be able to produce
clothing of any kind. Kenta is constantly finding
inspiration all around her. From the simplest ink
splatter on her diary, to the vast countryside of France.
“Fashion has numerous processes’, which ensure I
never have a dull boring day, its always exciting.”
She expresses how the environment is always changing.
Every new season, there’s a new style, new clothing
range. One of the hardships is managing time. With
this ever shifting workplace it takes someone who is
organised and ready to put in the effort. Steph admits
it can get tough but she thrives on the adrenaline it can
offer.
“In the beginning coping with high levels of stress in
meeting harsh deadlines was challenging. Working
with industrial machinery requires complete focus.
This doesn’t always merge well with stress.”
Kenta admits she is lucky to have such a great support
network that keep her motivated and sane when her
studies are getting more hectic as she nears the end of
her degree.
“Through the support of my friends and family, I was
able to react calmly when stress occurred, and have
built up a great tolerance for such situations.”
While time management is important, Kenta
will ultimately face a bigger problem when she
graduates. The Australian Governments Job Outlook
website states that even though there are many job
opportunities for fashion designing, the amount
of people who want to attain employment greatly
outweighs the number of opportunities available in
Melbourne.
“I think in any industry, experience is key. The way to
stand out is to learn what everyone else is doing, gain
skills, grow and then break the rules (which you can
only do if you know what the rules of the game are).”
We asked Stephanie how she would stand out in such a
competitive field.
“What make my designs different are that I’m not
trying to mimic anyone else’s style, they come from my
imagination and therefore breathe a life of their own,
that tell of me as an individual”.
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Source:StephanieKenta’sPortfolio
26. While fashion designers usually stay behind the
scenes, models are front and centre. Posing in
magazines and walking down runways. Modelling
is a prominent aspect in the fashion industry, and
no designer can really flourish without the help of
someone to showcase their designs.
On the outside the life of a model seems to be
glamorous but the work and effort is tough.
The pressure to look and act a certain way is a
negative stigma surrounding the industry. With many
articles shaming the modelling world for promoting
an unrealistic image to the younger generation.
Aspiring Melbourne model Cassidy-Rae Mcgill
doesn’t let stereotypes get her down. Being a size 8-10
she admits industry professionals have automatically
second guessed her modelling abilities.
“Being a curvier model, my inspiration is Marilyn
Monroe. I’ve taken from her to love the body I’ve been
given. I have a true hourglass figure, and have come
to embrace it. Which I’ve found to be the hardest
challenge so far.”
The demand for models is still quite high and is
growing. The Australian Government Job Outlook
statistics show employment has risen in the past five
years. In 2014 there were 11.5 thousand models, with
the number expecting to grow to 12.6 thousand by
2019.
Cassidy prides herself on being individual and
standing out from the crowd. She believes the first step
is to accept your body.
“Not many girls nowadays can embrace their whole
figure. My confidence and personality are certainly
what makes me stand out from the rest, because
personality is a big thing in this industry.”
Not only is body image one of the hardships Mcgill has
had to face but the constant travelling can be tough.
“Being away from my family so often. I’m always on
the move, and always saying goodbye… But at the end
of the day I chose the life I’m living and I truly do love
it.”
Cassidy is still learning the ropes of being a model, but
has enjoyed every moment of it so far. She’s constantly
learning and hopes to one day have her own brand that
is associated with a water aid to support countries who
don’t have clean drinking water.
We asked Mcgill what her advice would be for younger
boys and girls keen to try and break into the industry.
“It’s not about promoting unhealthy body image, but
some people can’t help the weight they are. But in
this day and age, a more realistic ideal of a woman is
preferred being a classic size 10-12. Once I’d found
my spot and took my body in my stride it stopped
affecting me. What I do with my body is my decision, I
just wish other models knew this too.”
Fashion design and modelling are completely different
to each other but cannot be without the other.
Ultimately modelling is the yin to a designers’ yang.
While both these young ladies have never met, there
is a strong chance their paths could cross in the future.
The fashion industry is loved by many and will only
continue to grow. As famous brand Coco Chanel
says, “Everyday is a fashion show, and the world is a
runway”.
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Source: Garden of Eden Photography
30. melbournians write for the world
Writer: Alana Cuce
The 2015 Melbourne Writers Festival (MWF)
celebrated 30 years of sharing the talents of
Australian writers with the world. The festival gives
aspiring authors the opportunity to have their work
published and noticed by fellow Australians and
authors around the world.
This year the festival was centred around people and
places in Melbourne. Melbourne is a culture rich city
which tends to produce very unique works of writing
from its residents. Melbournians are very passionate
about what makes their city so colourful and liveable.
The festival aimed to draw on these unique aspects
that make up Melbourne and encourage writers and
readers to discuss topics such politics, pop culture,
travel, TV, science and gender.
MWF is more than just reading books and listening
to authors. The festival’s program included activities
for people of all ages with different interests and
tastes. It is a festival that aims to tell stories through
conversations, debates, educational programs, live
performances, music and art events.
There were many different sessions that appealed to
all people and one third of the program was free. The
festival’s sessions were accessible on all
different platforms. There were the traditional
sessions that took place at venues, but there were also
sessions that took place on their website. ‘17 Minute
Stories’, was a free session that was only accessible on
their website. The series followed five stories over
five weeks from five MWF writers. Each story was
completely different to the other, tackling issues such
as war in Afghanistan, to formulating questions to ask
the Dalai Lama. However, what these five stories had
in common is that they had been designed to be read
in 17 minutes. The average tram ride is 17 minutes
and with trams being iconic to the Melbourne image,
it was a creative way to merge Melbourne lifestyle
with reading.
‘Melbourne Writers Festival embraces the widest
possible range of writing, from Nobel Prize winners to
mega-star bloggers’.
Aspiring writers should take the opportunity to either
submit their books, short stories and any pieces of
writing, or to volunteer at the festival. Volunteering
is a great way to network with other writers and talk
to more established authors about their journey of
success.
There is so much talent in the way of storytelling in
Melbourne and MWF gives everyone the
30
31. opportunity to share their stories and their works with
the world. MWF is a not-for-profit program that relies
on support and donations from corporate partnerships
and everyday people. It is important to give all people
the opportunity to voice their opinions and stories. It’s
therefore crucial that people continue donating to the
festival and contribute to the future of Australian writing.
The festival ran between 20-30 August 2015. Next year’s
festival will run from Thursday 25 August-Sunday 4
September 2016. Ticket prices will vary depending on
sessions.
For more information visit http://mwf.com.au/
To submit work email: admin@mwf.com.au or visit the
website for volunteer forms.
Melbourne Writers
Festival embraces the
widest possible range of
writing, from Nobel Prize
winners to mega-star
bloggers.
“
”
31
Source: Google images
32. the beginning of a great end
Introducing Carla Maraventano, an emerging writer working towards
the next best seller with her creative touch.
Writer: Rebecca Antouri
32
34. Everywhere around the world, everyone writes in
one way or another. Their writing can be as simple
as a Facebook status or as extreme as a newspaper
article. Except a lot of people have a creative mind to
write stories and novels. Maraventano is one of these
people, using her imagination to build something
spectacular.
Marventano says, “all I do is write and I’ve been like
that for as long as I can remember. Writing is my
saviour. When I’m sad I write, when I’m happy I write.
It’s all I do and a lot of my spare time is used doing it.”
At the age of 10 years, Maraventano suffered a big loss
when her parents ended their marriage. Through the
constant fights and problems, Maraventano found that
her only escape was writing, feeling that putting her
thoughts to paper could save her.
“Maraventano says, ‘I was only a child so it hit me
hard. I felt as though I had no one to turn to no one
but my pen and book. That’s when it all began.”
During a survey, the Australian Bureau of Statistics,
Arts and Culture in Australia, showed that in 2007
‘there were 356,900 people involved in Writing as a
hobby. This is up from 317,200 people respectively in
2004.’
These statistics show that many people like
Maraventano use writing as an escape from reality.
They create a story that’s either the same or different
to their real life experiences to express their feelings,
just as a musician or artist would do.
Maraventano’s mother, Angela Milana has played a big
part in her daughter’s choices as a writer. Raising her
2 daughters alone since her divorce, Maraventano has
used the courage, strengths and bravery of her mother
to become a better writer.
Milana says, “I was never the type of mother to push
my daughters to do something they didn’t want to do.
When Carla told me that she wanted
to write, I was all for it. I gave her the space to write.
I bought her, her first Laptop and I read every piece
she ever asked me to read. I know that one day she
will become big because she is an amazing writer. If a
woman like J.K Rowling could do it with nothing, so
can my daughter.”
In 2011, Maraventano began her first writing course
at Victoria University, studying Professional Writing
and Editing. Through this, she learnt the many skills
needed to better her writing and language, working
towards her first novel.
Maraventano says, “I wrote so much in this course. I
wrote short story after short story and poems galore,
until I was ready to put them together. With the skills
and knowledge I learnt I self published my own book
of short stories called: Words of Tomorrow, we wait.”
Although many people enjoy creative writing, it is a
hard interest to have. To sit down and write a novel
takes a lot of time, patience and skills, not mentioning
the avoidance of ‘writing block.’ To write a good novel
is one thing, but to have it published and made a best
seller is a tough achievement.
Author Donald Maass wrote in his novel The Breakout
Novelist: Craft and Strategies for Career Fiction
Writers, “Today’s fiction careers are biting the dust
all over the place. In the free and easy 1980’s, it was a
cinch to start up. In the brutally competitive economy
of the new millennium, it is a struggle just to survive.”
Maraventano used Maass’ book as a guide to her
writing career. When she discovered and read Maass
book, she realised that it was time to begin her first
novel.
Maraventano says, “I read it so many times. Actually
I didn’t just read it, I studied it from top to bottom. I
will admit though it did scare me a little. I mean how
was I to know if I could write the next best seller?
I didn’t. But what I did know was it wasn’t going to
happen if I didn’t start it.”
34
35. At the beginning of the year she began to make it all
happen. Maraventano enrolled herself at ‘Writing a
Novel in a Year’ writing classes, commencing her first
ever real novel, Fading into thin air.
Maraventano says, “this class has changed me as
a writer. I have never written so fast and so much.
Within the first two months I had completed 5
chapters and to me that is a huge success.”
Fading into thin air was initially a story based on
Maraventano’s real life issues. It was a story about
a young girl with daddy issues with no one around
to help. After the first few months of the writing
classes, the story began to change and Maraventano’s
imagination started to sway.
Demet Divaroren is one of the teachers of the writing
classes and impacted greatly on the change in the
story. Taking the classes once a month, Divaroren
used her own writing skills and talents to help young
emerging writers like Maraventano.
Divaroren says, “I see a lot of potential in
Carla. She has an amazing gift and has her
heart set on the right thing. Writing is for
her, just like it has always been for me. I have
really enjoyed being her coach this year and
Writing is my saviour
and I will do it until I
can no longer steady my
hands.
“
”
35
it has made a big difference. She has turned Fading
into thin air into a worthy story. All she has to do now
is finish it and take it from there.”
Fading into thin air is only the beginning for
Maraventano’s writing career. Although the book is
nearly to an end, making it big has only just begun for
this young talent.
Maraventano says, “I am really looking forward to
what life has to offer me. Like I said before, writing is
my saviour and I will do it until I can no longer steady
my hands. All I can say for all those people out there
who are scared to start their story is, starting is always
the hardest part so instead just put your pen to paper
and write the first thing that comes to mind. It worked
for me”
38. Scene: Family trip in Bali.
Protagonists, Tim James and Daniel O’Kelly, throw out
an idea for a short series - ‘Rolling’ - while relaxing by
the pool.
Fast forward a few weeks, and the boys have fleshed
out eight episodes, as well as the idea of a podcast and
a feature series. The only thing left for them to do is
to forge an empire under which this content could be
ruled…cue the establishment of Cork Productions.
Now, several months later - between work and study -
the Cork boys are concentrating on their podcast, ‘Fly
on the Wall’, which sees them discussing humorous
observations of every day life.
“After writing our series, which takes a mockumentary
style approach, we realised how much we enjoy the
comedy you find in the ‘every day’, that we decided to
start a podcast,” says O’Kelly on their inspiration.
The podcast itself is a light-hearted listen, and definitely
good for a laugh. Indeed, ‘Fly on the Wall’ is quite
Hamish and Andy-esque, where the boys; “[…find
themselves] throwing funny and stupid observations
and concepts at each other, purely to try and make the
other laugh.” In fact, both boys are big fans of Hamish
and Andy and list ‘WTF with Marc Maron’ and ‘Serial’
among their other favourites.
welcome to corkwriter: Jacqueline Papas
James has studied an intensive six-month course at the
Radio Training Institute in Melbourne.
According to James: “It is incredibly hard to break
out into the radio industry, given the fact that it is so
competitive, with so few spots.”
He also believes that you have to be open to travel and
working in community radio in order to gain success,
lamenting that there aren’t as many opportunities in
Australia for aspiring radio presenters to “find their
voice” without training.
“Thankfully, podcasts have presented people with an
opportunity to create content and practise this skill,” he
said. Both boys agree that the opportunity to
work in a studio before delving themselves in the radio
employment industry would be especially beneficial.
Give the boys a listen on iTunes and follow them on
social media at Cork Productions.
38
Source:CorkProductions’Instagrampage
39.
40. Do you like to talk to yourself? Do you like to hear
your voice on someone else’s answering machine?
Do you enjoy voicing your opinions readily and
without particular warrant or warning?
If you answered yes to all of the above – or even if you
didn’t - then radio is probably the job for you.
“How, then,” you may ask yourself, as you sip your
morning cup o’ [insert selected beverage here], “…do I
become a part of this cultural phenomenon?”
In broadcasting circles, it is widely acknowledged that
it can be difficult to get the experience and practice
you need to break out into commercial radio.
According to most sources, though, community radio
is the best place to get your foot in the door.
There are about thirty community radio stations
situated across Melbourne. According to the Australian
Government’s website, these stations offer a more
‘diverse’ range of listening material than that available
through commercial or government-based ones.
The website also states that: “[community radio] fulfils
an important role in providing basic media training
for over 7,000 Australians annually,” and also that it
encourages participation in all aspects of running a
station.
Zoran Ilievski - Triple R receptionist and occasional
presenter of ‘Respecting the Rock’ - agreed that
community stations are important in nurturing
aspiring broadcasters.
“Being a community radio station, it’s important, from
the station’s perspective to have a reasonable amount
of accessibility for people wanting to get involved,” he
said.
community radio;
or, how to make your broadcast dreams come true
An investigation into what it takes to get that radio experience you need.
Writer: Jacqueline Papas
40
41. Triple R has been running a work experience program
for approximately ten to fifteen years, which is targeted
at young adults of high school age.
“The program is formatted, particularly in recent years,
to give the students a very rudimentary understanding
of how to develop and produce a radio show demo.”
“We [have now] introduced a separate youth training
course for young adults - between 18 to 26 - to
encourage younger people to get involved.”
The typical sort of activities undertaken throughout
the placement and course include learning to use the
studios and panelling, producing a practice thirty
minute show, using recording and editing software,
maintaining the Triple R CD music library, general
administration tasks such as mail and filing, sitting in
on shows, and developing and scripting a Community
Service Announcement.
The programs both go through everything needed to
present a show, and every participant records a demo
program to submit.
“Should it be up to standard, they’re then given a
graveyard slot to present live-to-air for four hours,
curated by themselves. That’s pretty much how
everyone starts at Triple R. Where they go from there is
up to them.”
Ilievski also said that processes learnt in community
radio “[don’t] necessarily reflect other radio stations’
processes or culture, but it gives [the students] a
window into what is possible, and, might help them in
their future decision making regarding possible career
paths.”
However great these programs are, though, where
Triple R is concerned, there are only a certain amount
of spots they can fill.
“It would be great if we could have more programs
running, but finite resources make it a little difficult.”
Ilievski said, though he ended on a more positive note.
“There are similar opportunities at other community
radio stations around Melbourne […] we’re certainly
not the only port of call.”
That is exactly right. Many other stations do provide
similar programs. One excellent example of this is SYN
FM’s Media Work Experience Program.
Much like the program at Triple R, “the SYN Media
Work Experience program was established to give
secondary students an opportunity to experience work
in a radio station and media-creating environment,”
Membership and administration coordinator, Lana
Wilson, said.
“The program is aimed at secondary students in year
9 and 10. They do not need any prior experience, just
enthusiasm and an interest in radio and media.”
Being a community radio
station, it’s important, from
the station’s perspective to
have a reasonable amount
of accessibility for people
wanting to get involved.
“
”
41
Source:ZoranIlievski’sFacebookpage
42. This is interesting, as with the ever-growing online
spectrum of the media, some programs may forget or
bypass that online reach.
From a communications perspective, in developing
the social media presence of a program or radio
personality, that will create the opportunity for a larger
fan base. It will also give the student a greater realm of
understanding of the mass media – of which radio is
only one aspect.
As well as this, it would provide a broader knowledge
of the industry - which could be handy in providing
ulterior job opportunities close to the field if the going
gets especially tough.
Wilson urges students and aspiring broadcasters to get
that much-coveted production practice.
“We encourage any young person aged between
12 - 25 to get involved at SYN as a volunteer. We
offer Radio and TV training courses, in addition
to Professional Development and Mentoring
opportunities.”
“Work Experience in the industry is vital if you want
to pursue a media career - it is good to start early!”
She said.
So, in order to fulfil those livid dreams you have of
being the third leg of Hamish and Andy’s glorious
empire, get yourself to your local community radio
station - which soever it may be – and get that notch
on your belt.
For any further information about Triple R or SYN
FM’s programs, visit their websites.
42
Source: Triple R’s Facebook page
This program sees students undertaking a
similar set of duties as that of the Triple R
program, yet introduces blogging into the
spectrum.
46. Introducing, Sean James.
The township of Warrandyte recently hosted a
student film production titled ‘O’Grady’. The three-
day production was shot between two locations:
Warrandyte Hotel and the National Park, which
Warrandyte is well known for.
‘O’Grady’ is a short film based on the initiation process
of Jed, a new member of the fictional bikie gang named
‘The Miners’.
The man at the helm of this production, is up and
coming film director, Sean James. James is a Melbourne
based aspiring film director, making his directorial
debut. Not only was this James directorial debut, but
he also took on writing and producing responsibilities,
among others.
As part of the final year of his Bachelor of Film and
Television course at Swinburne University, James will
be marked on the final product of ‘O’Grady’.
However, one of James’s most impressive feats was the
successful courting and casting of ‘Sons Of Anarchy’
actor, Andy McPhee.
The Aussie actor brings obvious experience in playing
the role of a bikie, but has also allowed James access
to an industry professional. Along with this, it brings
a sense of credibility to the production in the eyes of
viewers.
This however, was not James first experience on a film
set. In fact, the Melbourne based student has some of
the most valuable experience under his belt, for a man
his age.
At the young age of 21, James had spent time working
on a film set with Hollywood stars such as Anthony
Hopkins and Jude Law on the 2011 film ‘360’, while
Sean was living in London.
Having had a crew of 15 people, and a cast of 18 actors
for O’Grady, James will walk away from this project
having further expanded his industry knowledge and
experience, further developing himself for life after
University.
Now having principle production of O’Grady wrapped,
James’s attention turns to the editing process, in
preparation for the films premier in December of this
year.
With his career now beginning, and his first film under
his belt, Sean James looks to be one to watch in the
Australian and global film industry in the years to
come.
directing a careerWriter: Daniel O’Kelly
46
48. The Lion King is leaving Melbourne for the second and
final time since first gracing the city a decade ago.
Since its Broadway premier in 1997, the beloved
Disney adaptation has gained worldwide fame with 70
international theatre awards, 75 million viewers globally
and has accumulated over $5 billion.
Vivacious in every sense of the word, the predominantly
Australian, New Zealander and South African cast of
The Lion King will pack their bags on October 4 after a
nine-month stint at the Regent Theatre. Don’t pussyfoot
around; grab your last-minute tickets at: ticketmaster.
com.au.
Try not to get your whiskers in a knot – Melbourne
won’t disappoint with its next feline number:
Introducing… CATS the Musical!
the purrrfect transitionWriter: Stephanie Atkins
The musical portrays a clowder of cats called the
Jellicles. When night approaches, they must make “the
Jellicle choice” in which they elect a cat that will gain a
new life in the Heaviside Layer.
In 1981, London’s West End premiered the record-
breaking show, which lasted for 21 years. Broadway
hosted the musical for 18 years, where it won seven
Tony Awards. The duel-Grammy winning routine is
now up for a 2015 Oliver Award.
Despite its popularity, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s
pervasive musical will be in Melbourne for a limited
time.
Seen by 73 million people in 300 cities, CATS will
entrance you with its incredible showcase of talent,
vivid costumes and hypnotising choreography.
Nants ingonyama bagithi Baba
Sithi uhm ingonyama…”
It’s the introduction to a musical number most of
us can’t pronounce, but we know so well and have
continued to make up the words to since childhood.
Amongst the Australian cast, we can expect to see
singer, songwriter, pianist, actress and The Voice
coach Delta Goodrem take the stage as glamour puss
Grizabella.
Daniel Assetta will play the curious Rum Rum Tugger,
the prominent Demeter will be portrayed by Amy
Berrisford; Jade Hui-Wen Coutts will play the dazzling
white cat, Victoria and James Cooper will take on
the role of the complex and antagonsing Macavity
member, Admetus.
Claws are sure to be out on Friday September 18 when
Melbourne hosts its first show, and make sure you’re
ready to pounce on tickets before January 10 2016.
Tickets available: catsthemusical.com
48
Source: Cats the Musical website
Source: Google images
“
49.
50. Young aspiring film makers dream big and want
to be the next ‘Steven Spielberg’, but not a lot of
students know how to get there.
Breaking into the film and television industry is a
tough and long road for most people. Due to the high
competition to become part of the industry, no one is
simply given a job, everyone has to work hard for it.
This tough competition can therefore make it daunting
for people who are just finishing their media and film
degrees. Many question what their next step is and
some are even unsure as to where to start. I decided to
interview two people in different stages of their film
and television careers and learn about their journey
into the industry.
Natalie is a third year creative arts student at La Trobe
University, who is majoring in television. Her journey
hasn’t been an easy one in the sense that she’s worked
hard for every opportunity. Over her time at university,
she has worked on multiple productions and was
offered an internship with Channel 31. Natalie explains
that ‘the only way I worked my way up was by working
hard and doing exactly what I was told to do. Also
being organised, if you’re not organised you will get
nowhere.’
lights,
Writer: Alana Cuce
camera, what’s next?
50
51. must know what they want to do when they go into
their degrees and courses, but that’s not always the case.
The purpose of exercises at university is to help develop
your skills but most importantly, they’re there for you
to see if that’s what you want to do in the future.
For those trying to break into the film and television
industry, it’s important to never underestimate the
importance of working hard and networking. Both
Natalie and Andrew attributed their successes to
working hard for their opportunities, even if that meant
putting extra time into learning skills, or going out of
their way to chase opportunities. It was also networking
that resulted in Natalie landing extra opportunities
outside of university and resulted in Andrew gaining a
full time job. Although the world of film and television
can seem intimidating and difficult to reach, there are
ways to be noticed. If you have the passion to succeed,
employers will see that and one day you might be part
of the wonderful world of film and television.
Dedication and organisation are both traits that
potential employers look for, especially in the film and
television industry. Being a good listener and dedicated
to your work shows future employers that you’re
committed and passionate about producing work in the
best possible way. Organisation is also very important
to the industry because almost everyone works towards
a deadline. If you’re not organised to produce work in
a certain amount of time, they will find someone who
can.
Natalie’s dedication and organisation skills resulted
in her landing an internship at Channel 31. ‘My
internship taught me where my strengths lay in terms
of the television industry. Internships just throw you
in the deep end but it helps you to figure out where
you want to be.’ Employers are looking for experience
and many young people are unsure as to where to get
that experience. Internships are a great way to gain
experience whilst also meeting people in the industry
and developing skills. Some internships expect their
candidates to have experience, so it’s important to
start internships as early as possible in your university
degree.
51
Source: Natalie’s Facebook page
Finally, Natalie’s last piece of advice
for students just starting their film and
television courses is, ‘don’t worry if you don’t
know what you want to do because you will
find it eventually’. Students believe that they
52. I also interviewed Andrew, a video editor and all
rounder at a video production company. Andrew’s
journey again is one of hard work and persistence.
Andrew completed a Bachelor of Media Studies,
focusing on the television stream. Like Natalie, it
wasn’t until he was thrown into the practical side
of his course, that he learned that his passion lay in
video editing. Once Andrew found his passion, he was
dedicated to learning all he could about video editing.
‘I spent a lot of time learning editing programs beyond
the basic training the university gives you, and in my
own time teaching myself new things. When it came
to the university classes, I was a lot more advanced
than the other editors. That’s how I stood out.’ Being
able to stand out in a university class will help you be
noticed by your professors. It is important to build
strong relationships with them because many are
still working in the industry and have contacts in
the fields you want to work in. This was the case for
Andrew. ‘The company that I’m currently working for
sent out an email to one of my lecturers asking for a
young editor that could do some part time work. My
teacher recommended me because I had done a lot
of work for her and for the university outside of my
course. I don’t think I would have gotten this job and
be recommended if I hadn’t taken the initiative to
teach myself how to learn editing programs, and built
contacts with my lecturers and other people around
university.’
Andrew was one of the very select few who were
already working in their chosen industry before
finishing university. Once he left university he said,
‘that’s where the real work started. It’s a completely
different way of learning when you’re on the job and
you need to solve the problems for yourself.’ Andrew
suggests that when expected to solve problems at
work, research skills have helped him. Reading books
on post production programs and using the internet
to watch video tutorials have given him a better
understanding of his work, and sometimes helped
him find more efficient ways to do his work. However,
one of the major skills you learn on the job is how to
work as a team, which is very important. ‘The post
production spectrum relies on key people at every
stage of the production, so if one person lets down the
team, everyone feels it.’ For those who think group
work finishes after university, you’re sadly mistaken.
In the film and television industry, group work is part
of everyday work. Employers look for people who can
successfully communicate and listen to others in every
stage of production.
Andrew also attributed networking to be one of the
most important aspects of the media industry. In the
film and television industry, networking is how jobs
are exchanged, they aren’t advertised in the newspaper
like traditional jobs. Therefore it’s important for young
film makers to introduce themselves to people in the
industry. The more you get out there, the more people
will start to recognise your name. ‘It’s very much
who you know which will help you get a job. Word of
mouth is very important and people will trust what
others have to say about you. Also knowing as many
people as you can gives you a better opportunity
when job placements turn up because people will
recommend you.’
52
Source: Andrew’s company profile
53. In a small Melbourne bar, a stand-up comedy open
mic night has begun. The first performer is Ben
Franzini.
Sitting in a coffee shop in Melbourne’s CBD, I find
myself across the table from a hopeful young comedian
as he packs away his note book, his laptop and voice
recorder. This coffee shop is the equivalent of being
asked into Franzini’s office. As a lot of comedians before
him, he finds inspiration in the day-to-day happenings
going on around him.
Franzini knows he possesses the ability to make people
laugh, which has lead him to take his skills to the stage
in the form of stand-up comedy.
Forming quite a presence on social media for his
comedic abilities, Franzini has formed somewhat of a
following online. However he wasn’t always the guy to
put himself out there in the public eye.
From a younger age, Franzini was a lot more reserved.
The youngest in a family of four other children, he
was always surrounded by outspoken older siblings.
It wasn’t until his later years in high school that the
aspiring comedian, started to find his footing, and
more importantly, his voice.
learning to stand up
writer: Daniel O’Kelly
“I always loved entertainment from a young age. I
loved the idea of it all. I feel that it wasn’t presented as
a career option to me though until later on. I guess it
helped having people suggest I pursue it too though”.
Having only performed on stage a handful of times so
far, Franzini has a realistic outlook on the performance
side of things.
“I need to just take my time with it. I don’t think
comedy should be rushed. I have done a couple of
gigs now, and it’s just about building my confidence
and material. The more gigs I do, the better for my
performance, however I need to ensure the material is
there first. I place the most importance on the material
itself”.
Thanks to the social media age, Franzini is still able
to try out ideas through his social media accounts,
along with keeping his name out there. Having a good
understanding of the benefits of social media and
knowing how to use those benefits, is a benefit of the
next generation’s entertainers.
53
Source:Ben’sFacebookpage
54. “It’s great because it allows me to try and make people
laugh, through sharing things that I think are funny.
Plus it’s another way for me to be performing without
actually being on stage. Until I can be living out my
dream of a stand up, I have to get my fix, if you will”.
While social media and YouTube may be great for
up and coming talent, it too has its downfalls. Most
notably, the fact that now everyone has the ability to be
a somebody online. A fact that Franzini is the first to
acknowledge as he sips his coffee.
“It just comes down to making your content better
and to stand out from others. You have to sort of trust
yourself in that what you’re doing is good and trust the
people that are telling you so. The internet has caused it
to become quite competitive out there to gain attention
to your work, however it is a process that is worth the
time”.
Idolising many from the comedy scene, both in
Australia and America, Franzini likes to base his
comedic style around the likes of Jerry Seinfeld and
Louis C.K. Two comedians with differing styles, yet
Franzini says “I like to think I am trying to find a mix
between the two, which is hard as you might expect,
however they are two of the greats. So it seems like a
successful formula”.
Having tried his hand at open mic nights, the plan is
now to turn his often tailored sets (material designed
to fit the demographics he is performing to) and to
instead make it a more global act. Once he has started
forming a broader act that will appeal to the masses,
Franzini has a plan for the year ahead.
“I have wanted to live in places in England for a while
now. However, I have never done anything about it.
Now though, I am hoping to move there next year, with
the driving force of being a successful stand up comic”.
Melbourne is home to one of the world’s most
prominent comedy festivals, ‘The Melbourne
International Comedy Festival’. The comedy festival
brings in some of the best comedic talent from around
the world, year after year. Why is it then that an up and
coming aspiring stand up, would want to leave a city
with such great opportunities for comedians, to play
small gigs in bars overseas where he will no doubt have
to work harder?
“I don’t want to fall into the trap of being a stereotype.
Looking at some of the great stand up comedians that
Australia has produced, you see that they are able to
travel the world and be relevant. Two great examples
of this are Will Anderson and Adam Hills. It would
be great to go overseas and trial it before I find myself
relying on Australian humour all the time, which is it’s
own thing in itself”.
While Franzini is responsible for the material he writes,
he does have a close confidant who he runs material by,
for a second opinion. Jack Timmons is an old friend of
Franzini, who helps Ben flesh out his ideas further.
“We have always enjoyed comedy, and our friendship
is largely based around laughing at things. So when
Ben started writing, I suppose we have that relationship
already where we knew that we had the same mindset
when it comes to comedy and therefore can trust each
other’s opinion. He is a man on a mission!”.
For now, Ben Franzini continues to develop his
performance and his material in order to give himself
the best opportunity possible, to become a professional
stand up comic.
I need to just take my time
with it. I don’t think comedy
should be rushed. I have
done a couple of gigs now,
and it’s just about building my
confidence and material.
“
”
54
55.
56.
57.
58. The Getaway Plan – Dark Horses tour: Friday
October 16, 7pm at 170 Russell St, Melbourne
CBD.
The Paper Kites – National Twelvefour album
tour: Friday October 23, 7pm at 170 Russell St.
Love Street Music Festival: Sunday October 25,
Howler, Brunswick.
The Lion King’s last Melbourne performance:
November 1, Regent Theatre.
Fleetwood Mac – On With the Show tour:
November 2, 4 and 6, 8pm at Rod Lava Arena,
and November 7, 4.30pm at Mt Duneed Estate,
Waurn Ponds, Victoria.
Florence + The Machine: Tuesday November 7,
7pm at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
Tame Impala: Saturday November 7, 7pm at the
Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne.
Matt Corby: Monday November 9, 7pm at The
Forum.
Mumford And Sons: Thursday November 12,
7pm at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
Tommy Little: November 20, 8.30pm at Five
Boroughs Bar, 68 Hardware Lane.
Panacea Music Festival: November 20-22 in
Tatong, Victoria.
British India – Spring tour: Friday November 27,
7pm at The Forum.
Taylor Swift – 1989 World tour feat. Vance Joy:
Thursday December 10, 7pm at AMMI Park.
CATS the Musical Melbourne premier:
December 18, Regent Theatre.
gig guide
