Social – Colins Street

05/07/202105/07/2021

Melbourne, Liveability & The Perpetual Flux of Time

June saw Melbourne achieve joint 8th place on the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index. This was a markedly reduced ranking for mighty Melbourne, which had for many years claimed a seemingly perpetual spot near the very top; frequently first, or at least, second of the most livable cities in the world.

Undoubtedly driven by the ongoing pandemic, many great cities have seen a change of fortune. Former European greats like Vienna [12] have faltered in the rankings while essentially covid-free Auckland [1] has now triumphed at the top of the table. No less than four Australian cities have made it into the top 10, with Adelaide [3] and Perth [6] faring strongly. Brisbane [10] also made the cut, and it can only be the scantest of consolations to Melbournians, that their traditional rival Sydney [11] has just missed out of a place at the top table. For better and for worse, many renowned cities have risen, and many have fallen across the globe.

Such change reminds us that great cities, just like great people, are subject to the ever-fickle churn of fortune; rising and falling within the perpetual motion of chance, circumstance, and human endeavor. It was ever thus, and as the father of western history himself observed, from his vantage in the 5th century BCE:

“… I shall go forward with my history, describing equally the greater and the lesser cities. For the cities which were formerly great, have most of them become insignificant; and such as those that are at present powerful, were weak in the times of old.” [Herodotus, Histories. Book 1.5]

In historical terms, we don’t have to go back that far to view a different Melbourne altogether. One that proudly celebrated itself as the ‘Seventh City of the British Empire’. The iconic 1930’s poster of Percy Trompf, for the Australian National Travel Association, showcasing the Manchester Unity Building, as a poster-icon of confident Australian identity, and an enduring classic of travel advertising.

Look back again further and another chapter in Melbourne’s fortune emerges when the largely unbuilt settlement exploded exponentially in size, following the boom of the 1850’s gold rush. Melbourne simply could not grow fast enough, and for a time it seemed the whole world flocked to Victoria’s booming city.

So does the lens of history, constantly focus and re-focus on the fortunes of a metropolis. Time changes many aspects in the circumstance, of nations, peoples, and their cities. Yet, no metropolis – no Athens, no Sparta, no Melbourne, no Auckland – has ever seen the end of flux or the ever-changing nature of fortune. Those that rise now will fall in time, and those that are laid low, have the potential to rise anew.

As a Melbournite, resident, and lover of the city, it’s been hard to miss the scarring effect that four significant covid lockdowns have had on Melbourne. However, knowing the spirit and character of this great city, can any doubt that Melbourne will, rise again.

01/11/202005/11/2020

Melbourne’s Great Lions

Did you know that Melbourne is dominated by lions?

When I say lions, I’m not talking metaphorically. I mean actual lions. Mighty beasts, out and about on Melbourne’s streets! Fierce, noble, terrifying, majestic, powerful, glorious lions. All over this great city.

The lions I talk about prowl Melbourne’s streets. They can be found in many places and most interestingly of all, they have a ruler; a king of this great urban jungle, who resides at the heart of the city.

I felt compelled to explore. I wanted to see these fantastic beasts. I wanted to meet the mighty one, the mythical El Lion, the king of Melbourne’s city streets.

Befuddled though I was by long weeks of lockdown, I set myself on a great lion adventure. I reasoned it was sensible to start at the Zoo. Great roars and growls drifted over the high walls, yet not a mighty cat could be seen. Melbourne Zoo was closed, yet lions were within.

I wanted to know what they knew of the Great One. I resolved to take a chance and shout over the wall “Did the great lion reside within?” After long paws, this is what followed:

“Nah, not here man. We have pride in our pride, for sure. But shame is, we are in lockdown. We is always in lockdown man.” drifted the throaty chorus. “Take a kyk in the city to seek the Wonderlik. Make like a butterfly and flutter into town”

Not discouraged, I decided to take the advice and began floating into town.

At the Shrine of Remembrance, I found eight mighty lions, each in pairs, at the corners of the stone monument. Each pair led by a young boy, pulling a chariot. Guardians of something precious, each chariot signified a virtue:

- - Patriotism
  - Sacrifice
  - Justice
  - Peace & Goodwill

Respectfully, I approached the mighty sentinels and asked if any knew the Wonderlik Lion?

In measured order, the sombre chorus rang:

“We are great, but we stand in honour of the sons and daughters of Melbourne, who sacrificed everything in wars gone by. We do not stray from this our sacred vigil. Roam deeper in the city. Look to the laneways to seek the Great Lion of this city”

Heartened, I was more determined than ever to maintain my quest. Paying sombre homage to the guardians I floated on, down the grand boulevard.

On the boulevard I passed the monument to King Edward VII, flanked by two grand and regal lions. I stopped to ask my question to them both “Are either of you the Great Lion of this fine city?”

Perhaps there was something too casual in my tone. For the response was as cutting as any claw:

“Be gone with you” came their haughty growl, “We are royal lions. We reflect the regal dignity of a King now laid to rest. He is the only King we recognise. We do not converse with the likes of you.”

Feline somewhat offended – but far from deterred – I hovered steadily on. I had only drifted as far as the old GPO building when, out of the corner of my eye, I sensed I was being watched from above.

A fine looking beast though modest in demeanour, I did not expect him to be the mane event. Though I still had to ask him my well-versed question. His response followed:

“Well … it is not me, though my masters did make me to reflect the roaring success and grandeur of this prospecting city. My fur is not golden, though be sure that gold paid for me. You will see many like me around this place in the ironwork and plaster facades. We are part of Melbourne’s heritage and grandeur. Fine as we are, we cannot claim to be the Mighty One. Prowl on farther and tell them I scent you.”

I did as I was bade and at the Tianjin Gardens I encountered two guardians of time, space and culture. Fierce and exotic to my eyes, I was not at first sure if they were lions at all. But they were. Could one of these creatures be the Great One that I sought?

With trepidation, I asked my familiar question and in response they growled:

“We are not the Great Lion that you seek, though we are fierce and powerful. Our duty is to protect this sacred entrance and drive away all enemies and evil spirits. We are found in pairs. My female consort channeling ‘yin’, resting her great paw upon our playful cub. While I the male, channel ‘yang’, and toy with my ball of imperial influence. Go deeper into the city if you truly seek the King of this Jungle. He has a tail to share.”

Weary I hovered on. Deep now into the city, down streets and laneways, always looking, always seeking. Tall buildings towered above and light itself became reluctant to follow me. I was tired, my spirits low, my energy all but spent.

Turning into a dark and gloomy laneway, a seeming dead-end beckoned. A constraining space holding little promise, though some strange power drew me on. As I progressed, a subtle transformation took effect. Imperceptible at first, though growing with incremental steps, a golden glow grew steadily in warmth and power. By the end of the lane, I was enveloped in light; illuminating the laneway in warmth that almost tingled the skin. The experience held no fear as golden light beaconed me forward, comforting in its warmth. As I rounded the lane and looked up, the source of this power became clear.

Magisterial in glory with a glowing yellow mane, adorned by a crown of gold, the Great Lion transfixed me with his gaze. Jewels and medals glittered, reflecting light from his golden coat. The Great One looked down upon me. Powerful and fierce in his gaze, but with no hint of malice.

Noble and powerful in presence he spoke in a deep throaty lullaby:

“I am the great one of whom you seek, I am El Lion, the great King of Melbourne’s streets. This laneway is my kingdom and this city my hunting ground. Some pass without knowing I am here, but I am lord of this domain, guarding over this laneway and the night-time revellers of the Butterfly Club. The one who created me, CHE, travelled from foreign lands to share love and contribute to the art of this city. A proud King of this urban jungle and a noble lord of Melbourne, I protect this place. Though not so many have passed in recent months, I stand still true and faithful in my duty, undiminished in my resolve. Time has not faded my vibrancy; pandemic has not weakened me. I will stay where I am set until people come once again.”

I have never forgotten my meeting with El Lion, or indeed with any of Melbourne’s mighty cats.

Never again have I found myself in that lane and I have many times wondered if any of this was real, or just a dream? Perhaps the months of lockdown really confused my brain? Perhaps I will never see El Lion again? I cannot be sure.

However, when I think about my adventure, I am reassured by another’s famous words:

“He’ll be coming and going … one day you’ll see him and another you won’t. He doesn’t like being tied down – and of course he has other countries to attend to. It’s quite all right. He’ll often drop in. Only you mustn’t press him. He’s wild, you know. Not like a tame lion.” [C.S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe]

What I learned from my quest – or dream – is that mighty lions roam all around us. They occupy every part of this great city. They transmit their power, their nobility and their majesty throughout the environment we all call home.

The prestige a lion commands should never be underestimated. Truly, they are the Kings of this our urban jungle.

The El Lion Mural by CHE @Vivacheman @VivacheDesigns

To find the El Lion Mural, you will need to look for the clues and search in the city like I did.

The El Lion was created by CHE. Inspired by great lions of his youth like those found in the ‘Wizard of Oz’, and ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ and other tales. CHE is also a Leo himself and has an affinity with lions.

Crafted in free hand using a 10-foot ladder, the El Lion took 14 hours and was produced using spray paints and latex. As a street art capital of world importance, CHE was drawn to Melbourne to paint the mural and in so doing provide a ‘hidden gem’ for those brave enough to seek it out.

Happy hunting.

With thanks and credits to CHE of Vivache Designs. The creator of the magnificent El Lion Mural.

www.vivache.com

24/08/202001/11/2020

The Weight of the World

This article was written for the Melbourne based arts charity, Culture Cue and can also be viewed on their pages.

The Weight of the World

Ever feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders?

Ever get that sense you’re toiling just to hold everything up? The work project, the mortgage, the bills, the commute, the boss, the kids, the in-laws … no doubt about it, there’s enough responsibilities to go around and they sure can pile up. Even the most upbeat of us feels the weight when we’re tired.

But have you ever looked around and noticed what others are carrying? They’re certainly out there, no doubt about it. No matter how easy they make it look, others carry great weight too.

I’ve been looking at the richness of Melbourne’s city environment and I’ve seen a few figures that are carrying heavy loads. Some of them might be well known, but others are true unsung heroes and heroines. They’re putting in some real shifts and holding up more than their share.

Like true battlers, you won’t hear from them, they won’t make a fuss. That’s why they deserve a shout-out, for sheer effort, for inspiration and for what they give to this great city.

A Titan of the CBD, Collins St

Halfway down grand Collins Street, a Titan (literally) of the CBD can be seen carrying the weight of the world on his broad shoulders. It’s not a CEO of industry, but mighty Atlas the legendary Titan. A bronze statue residing at 406 Collins Street, Atlas bears the world on his mighty back. Once, sat atop the old Atlas Assurance Building – back in the day – this proud giant of the ancient world, holds up the globe without ever a complaint. In our times, Atlas has been retained as a feature above the door of a modern office block.

The Titan is a sobering symbol of toil and commitment. What figure can better symbolise, fortitude, strength and solidity? As well as holding the world steady, Atlas is a reminder to any stressed executive, that they might not actually have the toughest job in the world.

In Greek classical mythology, Atlas was condemned by mighty Zeus, after the great battle of Olympians and Titans, to perpetually support the celestial heavens on his back. In later interpretations, Atlas came to be depicted as supporting the world, rather than the entire celestial sphere on his mighty shoulders. But let’s not split hairs, that’s still some weight!

The Power-Women of Old Melbourne, The Block Arcade, Elizabeth St

It’s not just muscle men that are taking the weight. Sisters are doing it for themselves.

Not far away on Elizabeth Street, we can see another impressive building where two powerful women hold up their share of responsibility, supporting the grand arch to the main Elizabeth Street façade. Above the Block Arcade, is a beautiful Victorian façade that is just one of the many impressive heritage buildings that adorn Melbourne. With Victorian modesty, elegance and real strength, you can see the two figures holding up the central arch of the grand building façade. Overlooking tram stop 2 on Elizabeth Street, these two power- women keep a clam watch over busy commuters.

Holding on by the Teeth, Flinders St

Down to Flinders Street next and another pair of heroes, perhaps brothers, are also doing their bit, supporting the grand canopy to the Rendezvous Hotel. With the bit well and truly between their teeth, these guys pull a shift every day.

Day in, and day out, these under-appreciated strongmen, do their duty and accept the job fate has given them. Often overlooked, but never complaining, they won’t say a word. These fellas take the strain with stoic fortitude.

The Strong Man of Fitzroy Gardens

The final figure of strength can be found just outside the CBD in the lovely Fitzroy Gardens. The River God is an ancient resident of Melbourne, who also has a heavy load to carry. He’s moved around a bit over the years and he wasn’t always in the gardens, but it’s a good place to go when you want to slow things down a bit … and who doesn’t want that when they get that wee bit older.

Sat aloft an outcrop of rock the muscled figure of the River God strikes a strong silhouette and provides an elegant fountain for the gardens. Dating from 1862 his original siting was on Clarendon Street and Gipps Street, before moving to the park in 1995. Bearing the weight of a massive conch shell on his powerful back, age has not diminished his physique. The River God is another figure of strength and endurance; holding up his part of civic Melbourne and providing beauty and inspiration to all that pass.

So, there it is. It’s more than just you or I that’s carrying a load. When I’m feeling tired and worn – and when I take the time to notice – some of these figures give me real inspiration. I mean, at least I don’t have to carry the actual world, or hold up a building!

I’m certain, there’s got to be plenty of other heroes and heroines out there. Do you know any others? Do you have a favourite figure who inspires and lends you their strength? Keep looking as I think they are all around us.

21/05/202014/08/2020

STOP – Having Children

Melbourne has more than its fair share of interesting and colourful signs. As someone who only moved to Australia relatively recently, I think part of my fascination with Australian signs is that they are unfamiliar to me. I did not grow up with their colours, shapes or styles and in that sense I find them culturally and aesthetically very interesting.

I think signs can tell us much more about a culture than just the intended utilitarian messages that they convey.

In addition to that we have here the ‘adapted sign’ which is also a feature of Melbourne. That in itself lends a whole a new dimension. Most of the adapted sign’s I’ve seen are too raw to post, but this one was tame and made me chuckle when I saw it.

[P.S. I have no personal position on how many kids anyone has, that’s up to them.]