Friday 19th April 2024
As I walked towards the door I heard the chirp of a car alarm being activated. I
hesitated, but the aroma of cooking took over and I kept going. It was the kind of
smell that makes you feel like eating even though you are not particularly hungry.
There, in the kitchen, was Phyl preparing a snack for the
‘Rumblers’.
It was ‘Rumble Night’ and there were 16 members and 8 visitors present.
During the day groups of more than one had been struggling to make a movie which,
apart from telling a story, had to include a sentence and an object.
According to the rules, entries had to be in on time to allow viewing to commence at
7.30, prompt. Say no more.
The presentation was also being ‘Zoomed’ around the Country – well to Sydney,
Lilydale and Mooroolbark anyway. All links were made and drivers on the grid
were eagerly awaiting the starter to pick up a microphone.
A little while later (see Norman, I can be polite), we got under
way. Norman announced that there were no shorts. (I wondered
why Joe was at the back of the hall), but wait, there was one from
Matt.
The Cycle of Life had all of the ‘Mattisms’ we’ve come to know
and appreciate. His movies go from strength to strength. Perhaps it is
a weird sense of humour, but quite a few of us were chuckling at
both scenes and commentary. The movie belted along with so much
content that I couldn’t make notes and view at the same time. With
the usual excellent animation he took us through the life cycles of
basic creatures with the typical outcome of disappearing up the
fundamental orifice. Roll over ‘Monty Python”.
Gary H then took the floor for the main attraction. The Rumble
Show.
Explaining the rules took a little time. Judging was different from
the norm. There were muffled threats about voting and several
attempts at bribery. Best offer from G.H was to share a pen and $5
to vote for a certain movie.
Onward, and, as it happened, upward with
the first movie from the GH/JM group.
Heavenly ‘B’ Roll showed a quite bemused
entrant before the ‘Pearly Gates’.
Unexpectedly Peter wasn’t in charge. An
aggressive female stand-in showed the
prospective entrant a few of his movie errors
and waved off his feeble attempts at excuses.
Given the ecclesiastical boot, he ended back – on his back -on earth. Still confused.
The Birdwatcher went on a trip to a local park –
to look for the feathered variety (at least that’s
what we were meant to believe). A very clear
sign advised against leaving valuables in the
vehicle. To say it was taken rather literally would
be an understatement,
To the strains of The Last Gunfighter, Helmut et.al.
showed stills from sketches and other images of the ‘Wild
West’. It takes some effort to fit stills to music and tell a
story.
Normans group produced a movie about an elderly gentlemen
who, everyone thought, was losing his marbles. (not the round
kind). The old boy was talking to a young lady (no fault there) and
complaining about others. A younger person who might be a
believer, arrived to speak to the young woman, who turns out to be
a ghost. (very healthy looking too). Unfortunately, his (the young
guy) motive was a bit mercenary wanting the next Tattslotto
results. The old fellow angrily sent him on his way – and then
produced a blank entry form of his own– at which time the young lady ghost had had
enough and faded. Nothing like a good fade to end a movie.
The Importance of being Ernest showed Elizabeth’s Springer
Spaniel (hope that’s correct), Ernest, and how he fits into the
household. Whatever else happens in a movie, an animal steals
the limelight.
From our Sydney friends - Group 42 (age, membership, or out of thin air?), and here
I apologize – I forget the title. Titles don’t matter when a theft is carried out – by two
of the fairer and weaker sex. Mutter, mutter.
Having successfully escaped with bags of upmarket gear, there is dismay at the
apparent loss of the diamond haul. As they make to return to the scene of the crime
(well, you would wouldn’t you?) it rains. The consequent up going of the umbrella
yields the bag of good stuff.
During all of these movies I scribbled furiously making notes, in the dark. Turning to
my ‘friend’ Joe, I remarked that I hoped I could make sense of my notes. His rather
hurtful reply was “they never make sense anyway”. Guess who is reporting next
meeting. See a photo at the end.
My notes can’t do justice to the movies and the efforts which go into making them.
Perhaps a second viewing or a link to where they can be seen again
Members were asked to nominate the movie which they liked best and the slips were
gathered for tallying.
Before the evening started, Norman’s better half, Trudy, (ok, I’m a crawler), brought
in some sandwiches and pies for the interval and Norman announced the break.
Afterwards, Norman asked a member from each group to speak about the story-line
and making of the movie.
Then the result was announced.
First was the Geoff and John’s production of The Birdwatcher.
Second was Heavenly ‘B’ Roll, the almost trip upstairs, by Gary H and Joe.
Third was Group 42’s entry from Sydney.
Congratulations to everyone. To script, shoot and produce a movie within nine hours
is quite an undertaking. There might be more on this later in the year.
So, another entertaining evening came to an end. Although we might have started just
a little later than expected, all went well, as did Phyl’s home made pizza. Some
members worked so hard they didn’t have time to eat during the day!!! Some who
didn’t make a movie couldn’t resist the aroma. Thanks Phyl.
Thanks also to Trudy for bringing tasty snacks.
A big thanks to;
Helmut and Ron at the computer.
Tim at the Zoom controls.
Brian for once again taking our money and supplying the raffles prizes. Not so sure
about Gary’s random number generated. (I mean on his phone of course).
Future Topics;
May 3rd ‘In the realm of…’
May 17th’ ;No Exit’
Important date; April 24th Ron is 29.
Happy Birthday Ron
I’m not sure how these pictures will present! Resizing them seems to create some
blurring. The originals look good in Photoshop, so fingers crossed it is my eyes. No
comment thank you Joe.
Cheers,
Jack
Friday 15th March 2024
With glee, a smile, and a pointed look towards me (don’t know why), Norman opened the meeting – but no one listened. I have the names of the chatterboxes.
The announcements started and gradually the audience settled.
Matt has won three awards with the blob who swallowed the money – and died. (we saw that last meeting).
Gary and Joe also won accolades for Mira’s Tale.
Secretary and Treasurers reports will be attached to these reports from now on.
With that very short introduction Norman handed over to Elizabeth to run the rest of the meeting.
Joe introduced the shortcuts segment for which the topic was Heartless.
• Joe - Heart in mouth. I wondered at first what we were watching as a young lady exercised on a parachute in order to pack it into a very small rucksack. Away from the contortions she neatly wrapped it up and tied everything with what looked like elastic bands!!! Then Joe’s son was taken up in an aircraft and, tied to another chap, thrown out to free fall for a while – attached to the same parachute.
It must have been packed correctly as it opened on cue and the pair came in for what seemed a fast landing. Hence the title.
• Gary D. - Creatures without a heart. Apparently some sea creatures don’t have a heart. (We know about sharks) However, Coral, sea cucumbers and starfish apparently are heartless. Countering this, an octopus has three hearts. Pharlap had a big one now stored in a museum. Which means that his stuffed body in Canberra is heartless. After our experiences with Gary, do we believe all of this??
• Matt -Tales of the Heart used animation to illustrate how hassling and hate are developed from the heart. The protagonist needed someone to hate.
• How I ended the Summer is a promo for a movie about an Arctic weather station. A brief look into how isolation can affect relationships.
• Gary H. - Advanced Karate classes. Synchronised swimming could be surpassed by the class members. Movements were so well coordinated it was a pleasure to watch.
Future topics;
5th April Leap (no bound(aries) on this one) 19th April In the realm of ….
Elizabeth took us into the next segment;
What makes a good movie.
In smart fashion she had us arranged into a large semi circle, with the idea that each would offer a comment on the subject.
Taking each person in turn, the suggestions were many, and with the number of members present, there was some overlap.
Topics included;
Good story line, developing interest, balanced sound, stability of shots, subtle effects, being able to hear and understand conversations.
After each comment Elizabeth expanded on the topic and discussed examples where the effect had been well presented or not in professional movies.
There was quite a part circle with 19 members, and Norman and Gary H thought they had got out of it. No chance.
Rounding out the segment Elizabeth got Ron to run some members movies.
• June – My Sister Cat. Set to the tune of ‘Wish I could shimmy like my sister Kate’ June’s animation had a cat performing various antics including singing.
• 32 Bars – Mike took us to the Eltham Jazz Festival where he followed a group through a number of songs. He shot from distance using one camera with a shotgun mike. With some clever post production he managed to produce some ‘apparent’ to suggest that the camera was in various positions.
• For an Empowering Women event Gary H . produced background footage using two mermaids and others. Are we getting a theme here?
• Geoff produced a beautiful tour of the Dandenong Ranges, visiting many well-known locations. Philip’s commentary added to the pleasure.
• Mystery Hole – Matt had another take on black holes.
Another animated ‘blob’ is chased by headless jaws and teeth. A mystery hole seems the only way out, but other world beings change him (or it) into something that smashes the teeth. Now – he is bound to them forever. Tears please.
Top marks to Elizabeth for handling the discussion, presentation and summing up. We’ll do well if the remainder of the syllabus continues to the same standard.
Gary Hegedus spoke about:
• Channel 31. A presentation by himself will air on this channel. Look out for Outta the can. (by the time you receive this the show might be over).
• Rumble is set for April 19th. More to be sent out.
Would you believe that Norman was very quiet this evening? However, you can’t keep a good man down and he returned to close the meeting thanking everyone, and especially Elizabeth, for an interesting night.
Philip was on holiday – taking footage for some movies no doubt, so Ron did the driving, later assisted by Gary D.
Phyl fed us and Brian took our money.
A happy raffle winner
Another good evening. Thanks all.
Cheers,
Jack
As I walked towards the door I heard the chirp of a car alarm being activated. I
hesitated, but the aroma of cooking took over and I kept going. It was the kind of
smell that makes you feel like eating even though you are not particularly hungry.
There, in the kitchen, was Phyl preparing a snack for the
‘Rumblers’.
It was ‘Rumble Night’ and there were 16 members and 8 visitors present.
During the day groups of more than one had been struggling to make a movie which,
apart from telling a story, had to include a sentence and an object.
According to the rules, entries had to be in on time to allow viewing to commence at
7.30, prompt. Say no more.
The presentation was also being ‘Zoomed’ around the Country – well to Sydney,
Lilydale and Mooroolbark anyway. All links were made and drivers on the grid
were eagerly awaiting the starter to pick up a microphone.
A little while later (see Norman, I can be polite), we got under
way. Norman announced that there were no shorts. (I wondered
why Joe was at the back of the hall), but wait, there was one from
Matt.
The Cycle of Life had all of the ‘Mattisms’ we’ve come to know
and appreciate. His movies go from strength to strength. Perhaps it is
a weird sense of humour, but quite a few of us were chuckling at
both scenes and commentary. The movie belted along with so much
content that I couldn’t make notes and view at the same time. With
the usual excellent animation he took us through the life cycles of
basic creatures with the typical outcome of disappearing up the
fundamental orifice. Roll over ‘Monty Python”.
Gary H then took the floor for the main attraction. The Rumble
Show.
Explaining the rules took a little time. Judging was different from
the norm. There were muffled threats about voting and several
attempts at bribery. Best offer from G.H was to share a pen and $5
to vote for a certain movie.
Onward, and, as it happened, upward with
the first movie from the GH/JM group.
Heavenly ‘B’ Roll showed a quite bemused
entrant before the ‘Pearly Gates’.
Unexpectedly Peter wasn’t in charge. An
aggressive female stand-in showed the
prospective entrant a few of his movie errors
and waved off his feeble attempts at excuses.
Given the ecclesiastical boot, he ended back – on his back -on earth. Still confused.
The Birdwatcher went on a trip to a local park –
to look for the feathered variety (at least that’s
what we were meant to believe). A very clear
sign advised against leaving valuables in the
vehicle. To say it was taken rather literally would
be an understatement,
To the strains of The Last Gunfighter, Helmut et.al.
showed stills from sketches and other images of the ‘Wild
West’. It takes some effort to fit stills to music and tell a
story.
Normans group produced a movie about an elderly gentlemen
who, everyone thought, was losing his marbles. (not the round
kind). The old boy was talking to a young lady (no fault there) and
complaining about others. A younger person who might be a
believer, arrived to speak to the young woman, who turns out to be
a ghost. (very healthy looking too). Unfortunately, his (the young
guy) motive was a bit mercenary wanting the next Tattslotto
results. The old fellow angrily sent him on his way – and then
produced a blank entry form of his own– at which time the young lady ghost had had
enough and faded. Nothing like a good fade to end a movie.
The Importance of being Ernest showed Elizabeth’s Springer
Spaniel (hope that’s correct), Ernest, and how he fits into the
household. Whatever else happens in a movie, an animal steals
the limelight.
From our Sydney friends - Group 42 (age, membership, or out of thin air?), and here
I apologize – I forget the title. Titles don’t matter when a theft is carried out – by two
of the fairer and weaker sex. Mutter, mutter.
Having successfully escaped with bags of upmarket gear, there is dismay at the
apparent loss of the diamond haul. As they make to return to the scene of the crime
(well, you would wouldn’t you?) it rains. The consequent up going of the umbrella
yields the bag of good stuff.
During all of these movies I scribbled furiously making notes, in the dark. Turning to
my ‘friend’ Joe, I remarked that I hoped I could make sense of my notes. His rather
hurtful reply was “they never make sense anyway”. Guess who is reporting next
meeting. See a photo at the end.
My notes can’t do justice to the movies and the efforts which go into making them.
Perhaps a second viewing or a link to where they can be seen again
Members were asked to nominate the movie which they liked best and the slips were
gathered for tallying.
Before the evening started, Norman’s better half, Trudy, (ok, I’m a crawler), brought
in some sandwiches and pies for the interval and Norman announced the break.
Afterwards, Norman asked a member from each group to speak about the story-line
and making of the movie.
Then the result was announced.
First was the Geoff and John’s production of The Birdwatcher.
Second was Heavenly ‘B’ Roll, the almost trip upstairs, by Gary H and Joe.
Third was Group 42’s entry from Sydney.
Congratulations to everyone. To script, shoot and produce a movie within nine hours
is quite an undertaking. There might be more on this later in the year.
So, another entertaining evening came to an end. Although we might have started just
a little later than expected, all went well, as did Phyl’s home made pizza. Some
members worked so hard they didn’t have time to eat during the day!!! Some who
didn’t make a movie couldn’t resist the aroma. Thanks Phyl.
Thanks also to Trudy for bringing tasty snacks.
A big thanks to;
Helmut and Ron at the computer.
Tim at the Zoom controls.
Brian for once again taking our money and supplying the raffles prizes. Not so sure
about Gary’s random number generated. (I mean on his phone of course).
Future Topics;
May 3rd ‘In the realm of…’
May 17th’ ;No Exit’
Important date; April 24th Ron is 29.
Happy Birthday Ron
I’m not sure how these pictures will present! Resizing them seems to create some
blurring. The originals look good in Photoshop, so fingers crossed it is my eyes. No
comment thank you Joe.
Cheers,
Jack
Friday 15th March 2024
With glee, a smile, and a pointed look towards me (don’t know why), Norman opened the meeting – but no one listened. I have the names of the chatterboxes.
The announcements started and gradually the audience settled.
Matt has won three awards with the blob who swallowed the money – and died. (we saw that last meeting).
Gary and Joe also won accolades for Mira’s Tale.
Secretary and Treasurers reports will be attached to these reports from now on.
With that very short introduction Norman handed over to Elizabeth to run the rest of the meeting.
Joe introduced the shortcuts segment for which the topic was Heartless.
• Joe - Heart in mouth. I wondered at first what we were watching as a young lady exercised on a parachute in order to pack it into a very small rucksack. Away from the contortions she neatly wrapped it up and tied everything with what looked like elastic bands!!! Then Joe’s son was taken up in an aircraft and, tied to another chap, thrown out to free fall for a while – attached to the same parachute.
It must have been packed correctly as it opened on cue and the pair came in for what seemed a fast landing. Hence the title.
• Gary D. - Creatures without a heart. Apparently some sea creatures don’t have a heart. (We know about sharks) However, Coral, sea cucumbers and starfish apparently are heartless. Countering this, an octopus has three hearts. Pharlap had a big one now stored in a museum. Which means that his stuffed body in Canberra is heartless. After our experiences with Gary, do we believe all of this??
• Matt -Tales of the Heart used animation to illustrate how hassling and hate are developed from the heart. The protagonist needed someone to hate.
• How I ended the Summer is a promo for a movie about an Arctic weather station. A brief look into how isolation can affect relationships.
• Gary H. - Advanced Karate classes. Synchronised swimming could be surpassed by the class members. Movements were so well coordinated it was a pleasure to watch.
Future topics;
5th April Leap (no bound(aries) on this one) 19th April In the realm of ….
Elizabeth took us into the next segment;
What makes a good movie.
In smart fashion she had us arranged into a large semi circle, with the idea that each would offer a comment on the subject.
Taking each person in turn, the suggestions were many, and with the number of members present, there was some overlap.
Topics included;
Good story line, developing interest, balanced sound, stability of shots, subtle effects, being able to hear and understand conversations.
After each comment Elizabeth expanded on the topic and discussed examples where the effect had been well presented or not in professional movies.
There was quite a part circle with 19 members, and Norman and Gary H thought they had got out of it. No chance.
Rounding out the segment Elizabeth got Ron to run some members movies.
• June – My Sister Cat. Set to the tune of ‘Wish I could shimmy like my sister Kate’ June’s animation had a cat performing various antics including singing.
• 32 Bars – Mike took us to the Eltham Jazz Festival where he followed a group through a number of songs. He shot from distance using one camera with a shotgun mike. With some clever post production he managed to produce some ‘apparent’ to suggest that the camera was in various positions.
• For an Empowering Women event Gary H . produced background footage using two mermaids and others. Are we getting a theme here?
• Geoff produced a beautiful tour of the Dandenong Ranges, visiting many well-known locations. Philip’s commentary added to the pleasure.
• Mystery Hole – Matt had another take on black holes.
Another animated ‘blob’ is chased by headless jaws and teeth. A mystery hole seems the only way out, but other world beings change him (or it) into something that smashes the teeth. Now – he is bound to them forever. Tears please.
Top marks to Elizabeth for handling the discussion, presentation and summing up. We’ll do well if the remainder of the syllabus continues to the same standard.
Gary Hegedus spoke about:
• Channel 31. A presentation by himself will air on this channel. Look out for Outta the can. (by the time you receive this the show might be over).
• Rumble is set for April 19th. More to be sent out.
Would you believe that Norman was very quiet this evening? However, you can’t keep a good man down and he returned to close the meeting thanking everyone, and especially Elizabeth, for an interesting night.
Philip was on holiday – taking footage for some movies no doubt, so Ron did the driving, later assisted by Gary D.
Phyl fed us and Brian took our money.
A happy raffle winner
Another good evening. Thanks all.
Cheers,
Jack
Friday 1st March 2024
I was about to write that all of the usual suspects were present, when Norman
raised his voice and called us to attention. Then I noticed a couple of visitors.
There was Max, and, a lady sitting in front of me whom I hadn’t the wit to
speak to. Then John Millard sat beside her and I was afraid!!. On my count
there were 19 members and two guests present.
As we respectfully gathered ourselves, Norman threw the baton
to Joe who was pleased he was on time to catch it. Actually it
was the microphone and Norman passed it over. So, we
launched into the shortcuts segment for which the theme was
‘I am not afraid’.
Matt - goes from strength to strength with his animation.
Fearsome prehistoric creatures roamed around, and a small
(but not innocent looking) animal spied a bag of gold. Who
could resist? It should have been afraid for just after it
gobbled it down, the poor thing keeled over and died. No tears.
Gary D. - showed a youtube movie of a group of
‘chancers’ trying to extract a python from a burrow.
The ‘hunter’ was expressing some concern as he
scrambled into the burrow and came face to face
with it. Getting the head out was one thing, but the
body was about 6 meters long and quite fat. There was some talk of it
being a pregnant female. (tautology - males don’t get pregnant do
they?) Maybe ‘she’ was a bit dozy!
Helmut - showed a ‘marshalls’ point of view during
motorcycle races at Philip Island. A very busy occupation
carried out by volunteers (who are motorbike mad of
course), controlling crowds and being trackside.
Norman - has a nephew in the USA who produced a short movie
advertising the school yearbook - looking for entries. At ten years old he
could have a future in advertising.
Future topics are:
March 15th Heartless (I guess variations on interpretation will be
accepted.)
April 5th Leap (Joe doesn’t like single word titles so get thinking for a
title next meeting. We need something meaty for April 19th.)
BTW Although March 29th is a fifth Friday, it is also Good Friday
and there will not be a social outing.
John Millard mentioned that he has had a call from Colin Prohasky. Colin
has been a friend of the club for many years and a number of members
have used his expertise, in music production, to produce
scores for their movies. He is qualified having spent many
years studying, and regularly scores local theatre
productions. He also can suggest contacts for actors.
Philip took over to introduce the quarterly competition for
which there were four entries.
Expectations from Mouli Ganguly.
Every parents nightmare – a son wasting time playing games on a
computer. The parents are not happy with their son’s (lack) of
achievement when a friend announces he is going to Harvard. All is well
in the end as the son is going to lecture at Harvard in - game playing.
There is an old saying – ‘where there’s muck there’s money’. Obviously
not only ‘muck’.
Family from John and John Millard.
Once again the brothers meet. Are they different brothers from the last
movie or has one done well for himself? Family
research has made the connection across many miles.
Just shows – you can’t choose your family.
Mira’s Tale from Gary Hegedus.
Hands up if you don’t want to find a mermaid in your bath. Top marks to
the gallant homeowner who finds a way to restore Mira
to her natural environment whilst, at the same time,
fending off ‘Mermaid chasers’. Wonderful choice of
actress for the mermaid – she was great in the role.
Age of the Dinnersaurs from Matt.
Another terrific animation with a lively and humorous commentary. The
rise and fall of a weird selection of prehistoric
creatures with names like ‘Triscarytops’. History as it
wasn’t, but should have been - perhaps.
Before he was allowed to tally the competition scores, Philip
spoke about his experience in gathering Family History
information. With a power point presentation he described the ways to
conduct research and record data giving examples of sources for material.
He mentioned Lumina Neo as a program for improving photographs and showed
examples.
A good introduction to the next segment, by Elizabeth, which
enabled Philip to get on with his main business for the evening,
tallying the scores.
The current syllabus includes an evening of Family History
movies of up to five minutes. As examples of subjects Elizabeth
suggested a short history of a parent, or perhaps select one ancestor who might
be a person of interest. Newspapers could be used as a source of information.
Australian newspapers can be researched through ‘Trove’. For more info contact
Elizabeth.
Ron showed a fine example of a short movie about his research
and development of a ‘tree’ using Family Tree Maker. There are
many programs available – talk to others to get pros and cons of
theirs.
Ron stunned us all with a long chart of his ‘cousins’ prepared for a
meeting to celebrate his 90th birthday. About 19 A4 pages taped together is a
long sheet.
Elizabeth showed an American approach using short clips of photos. (Matt
suggested using the ‘Ken Burns’ effect to add interest.
July 19th is the scheduled date for presentations.
Philip rejoined the activities with the results of the competition. Marks were
close, with the worthy winner beiNg
-- Mira’s Tale. Congratulations to young Gary
and his band of helpers. Second was Matt’s Dinnersaurus. Again, well done.
Norman, who had been kept very quiet (does anyone believe
that?), took the mic for some announcements.
--- Although the film festival last year was a success, it needs
someone to take it in hand if another is to be run this year. An alternative
of running a ‘schools competition had again been raised. There was a
distinct lack of enthusiasm and the general opinion was that the gains
from last year did not justify the effort.
--- The next ‘Rumble’ is scheduled for the 18th April. Quite a few indicated
participation.
--- Some interstate clubs have expressed interest in following our lead with
regard to shortcuts. Sydney might send movies to us on the same themes.
--- The Sydney club have a competition with the theme ‘Robbery’. We might
be formed into groups to produce some entries.
And, so ended another good evening. Good to see everyone including Karl
Walla, a long time member whom we haven’t seen for some time. Now you
know the way Karl.
Quite a few people were involved to make the evening enjoyable so a warm
thank to you all.
A couple of members who don’t get their photos shown too often but always
have a presence.
Reminder – NO dinner on the 29th March.
This is Norman’s way of letting us know that the evening is over.
It was noticeable that Tony didn’t have his camera to record the evening so I
guess John or myself will be reporting for a while!!!
The next ‘few’ pages are for Tony to include some reports so, ‘til next time.
Cheers,
Jack
Treasurers Report 1 Mar 2024
Statement a/c $2341 (agrees with Bank balance)
Term Deposit $9717 (reserved for equipment)
Financial members 27
Ron Fry, Treasurer
Friday 16th February 2024
I was on time. Yea. The atmosphere was a little subdued. Norman did a meet
and greet at the door whereas he normally floats around getting everyone
stoked up.
Then we found out that Elizabeth was M.C. for the
evening.
She mentioned that Norman would be leaving early as
he was attending a wedding anniversary. His and
Trudy’s. Congratulations to both and especially to
Trudy!!!
Before I could get my book ready, Elizabeth had called
Tony to the floor for his reports. We must be doing all
right for the reports were minimalist and Tony talked
about his new ‘toy’, Osmo. Osmo is a compact and
versatile little camera mounted on a gimbal. He had used
the camera to record the previous meeting and use the
recording for the report, but....
It was interesting to see the effect as the gimbal took over and Norman sank
slowly to the bottom of the image. Later it allowed him to walk out of frame
eventually catching up. Of course it was the cameras fault. What else?
There is promise here though. If it works, John and I might be out of a job and
instead of having to read at lot of XXXX(you choose), you’ll be able to watch it.
We could tell Elizabeth was getting worried. No Joe!! She was in charge and
had Tony lined up for the job, when in strolled Joe, unfazed by the
consternation. He blamed the roadworks.
Skipping no beats he asked what the topic was for shorts
and how many. Art and Culture, seven movies. One
member was surprised, thinking the topic was Heart. Find
out later.
Speaking of Art and Culture, maybe not what you were
expecting but this ‘rogues’ gallery shows some of the shorts
contributors. Guy added to the flavour.
Sorry, I don’t have pictures of Helmut and Tim.
Gary Dusting - Famous Art Works – as you’ve never seen them before.
I’ve said it before – for a chap who cannot think of a subject, he keeps us
all on our toes. His presentation of various artists, their subjects and a
very punful commentary had us all groaning – with amusement.
Helmut took his GoPro around the Elysee Palace to record many of the
displays.
John Bishop - Family Art showed how his extended family from
youngest to oldest are involved in art, including his wife Olga. Some very
fine examples from a talented family.
Matt – demonstrated more of his talent. Having composed a music track
he put psychedelic images to it. Bit like a musical kaleidoscope. There
were many comparisons to Dr Who, War of the Worlds, Aliens etc.
Tim – The Art of being Impatient. To the music ‘When the boat comes
in’, Tim showed the ‘Spirit of Tasmania’ arriving at Tasmania. Patience
was waiting for the boat to get there.
Philip – Showed how one Temple leader in Thailand had used the
Temple galleries to showcase modern versions of traditional art,
expressing traditional values in modern ways.
Joe - Memory test. It is usual, we’re told, for anyone undergoing heart
surgery to lose memory of events for a couple of days before the
operation and also for a few days afterwards. Joe set out to prove or
disprove the notion. He could remember everything, but it caught up
with him for the last meeting!!! It was Art Joe.
Guy West Not a movie, but a pun joke about Gary Dusting. ‘Gary had
entered his ten best puns in a contest. He didn’t win because ...... No
pun in ten did’. I am not explaining that. Just keep repeating it and it will
be revealed.
Future Topics;
March 1st I am not afraid.
March 15th Heartless. (or Artless for anyone hard of hearing)
March 29th is Good Friday. No mention about a Club Social, but wait for an
announcement.
Members films;
Doncaster Cricket Club – 75th Anniversary by Geoff showed members talking
about the history of the Club and players, relating how it began and
progressed.
Technical segment
Helmut introduced his new toy – a 360 degree camera. We found out that it
was two 180 degree units with a built in stitching program to achieve a full
circle. Not only horizontally, but vertically as well. Specifically purchased to
allow him to record a ‘dive’ with sharks!!
On a previous journey –when there weren’t any sharks, he became aware of
the limitations of the regular camera, in that recording the animals, and
spectators reactions, at the same time, was not possible, unless you were
outside of the cage.
The image quality of his new camera is very good. Stability is not a problem as
demonstrated by attaching the camera to his motorcycle and driving over a
rough road. A couple of movies showed what can be done, but we do need an
in house demo. This had been planned, but we ran out of time. What a good
result. No need for ‘padding’ as someone said.
Running out of time meant that Elizabeth and Philip decided that their agenda
item about the Family History project was postponed to the next meeting.
Elizabeth mentioned that the syllabus had been amended and will be sent out
soon. She then closed the meeting thanking all members for their involvement.
For what it is worth, I thought that the evening went quickly and was very
entertaining.
Cheers,
Jac
Friday 2nd February 2024
Our first meeting for the New Year and – I was late. Worse still, I didn’t bring a
note!!
At 7.39 and a half I walked through the door as Tony was wrapping up his
segment and Norman took the floor.
Was he happy to see me or-
happy I was late???
I was told in confidence that John Millard was a bit
disappointed that I had arrived as he quite likes
doing the reports. I do know that he took notes, so,
if anyone wants a refresher about the start of the
evening - contact John.
On my count there were seventeen members and one guest. (I was never good
at dividing by two) The guest was Maureen Plain, a former member who is
rejoining after a few years absence. Good to see you again Maureen.
So, my evening started with Joe, and that is always a good way to start.
Unfortunately he couldn’t remember the shorts
topic but it didn’t matter as none of the members
could either or at least none that brought a movie.
Apparently it should have been resolution but hey,
the previous meeting was a last year!
Fortunately Philip had everything in hand and on
cue from Joe, he brought up;
June’s movie about the NGV Triennial. With stills and video we were shown
some exciting variations of artwork. There were many beautiful creations and
guests were allowed or invited to walk over some pieces. Seemed a shame.
Norman’s Ground Level showed the point of view of a shoe shine ’boy’ in
India. The chap had been there for about thirty years with the same view. All
feet and pavement. Quite a feat to score those images.
Matt produced The Age of the Dinnersaurs. His longest movie yet at 2min
30secs, I can’t do it justice with an explanation. It needs to be seen. A send up
of the real dinosaurs, it has a great visuals commentary – very funny.
Tim’s Goldfields took us along the Walhalla railway at fairly high speed.
Fortunately the track was in good condition. If anyone managed to stop
looking at the tracks, there was some interesting geology along the way. Puffs
of smoke ahead of the train raised some comments and Tim explained that
he’d filmed from the back of the train and then reversed the video. Cheeky.
Tim’s second movie was about the Yarra and discussed the value of the River
to communities past and present, with commentary about pollution during
early settlement to pollution nowadays.
Mike Scully had his father Jack standing in front of the Trades Hall building in
2004 giving a brief history of the Labour party and differences of opinion in the
1950’s.
Jack tried to convince members that he had taken a mountain bike down a
track at Falls Creek. No one believed that. The snake got a few comments.
Gary H. Showed Mira Moonwater. Beautiful videography of a mermaid in a
pool. Apparently a teaser for a future competition entry. Looking forward to
that.
Norman took us on a Night Ride in Kolkata. A taxi ride along a street of
Christmas lights. I reckon that could have been seen from the ISS. Vehicles
wouldn’t have needed lights. The brilliance and colour was only surmounted by
the – you guessed it – horns, and I don’t mean animals. They were quite varied
and loud. Properly choreographed, a musical score could be achieved. Had I
been holding the camera there might have been a few blank spots, driving is
not for the faint hearted.
A great show of movies, notwithstanding that none were ‘on topic’.
The topic for February 16th is ART CULTURE and SO FORTH.
June should be well ahead on that one!!
For the second part of the program, Elizabeth took
over to introduce the 2024 syllabus.
Presumably she had some elves to help in its
production and at first glance it seems to be a great
effort which should have something to satisfy us all. I
didn’t notice anyone shaking a head, so it was well
received. I believe there is more to come after some
‘tweaking’.
Norman closed the meeting at about 9.30ish and out came the nose bags.
Those who know horses will get the reference.
Cheers,
Jack
P.S. I will try to be there on time next meet
.