Today I was very happy, after many delays on my end, to be interviewed by Leeny for his youtube channel Frostbite’s GI Joe Repro. However instead of discussing GI Joe’s, we discussed Transformers – evrything from how my hobby began to my most beloved figures to how I now share the hobby with my son.
So tune in and enjoy Big Angry Trev interviewed on Frostbite.
And dont forget to subscribe and check out some of the other great interviews on the Frostbite’s GI Joe Repro channel!
For several years we have been doing Transformer Fan interviews with different Aussie collectors.
Well as the Big Angry Trev Blog grows, the borders of our great brown land are no longer big enough to contain it! So with our first internationalinterview, coming all the way from Malaysia, we have Transformer Collector David Lee, giving us the low down on his favorite hobby.
Name and/or nicknames:
David Lee / Sifu-David
Family:
Divorced, Mom, Dad and Sister all intact
Career:
Once an Accounts person but now a full time tertiary educator and the Head of Academic of a local Malaysian private University College.
How would you rate yourself on a C scale, C10 being MISB Mint perfection, to the lowest C1 ‘junker not worth it even for parts’?
I’d rate myself a solid C7, not too shabby, not too shambled.
Fan/Collector since (year)?:
1987 or 1987 when I was a kid, my late grandmother introduced me to Powermaster Optimus Prime and here I am with my collection.
Transformers Allegiance, if you had one?
I feel the Autobot cause is more for me as I always felt Freedom is the Right of all Sentient Beings.
Your Techspec motto if you had one?
“Between Logic and Emotions, nothing in between exists”
What existing, official Transformers character best describes you?
I would say it be Hot Rodimus / Rodimus Prime. As a leader at work, I always feel the doubt of my own abilities to lead and to bring a better future to the team.
Which special ability of any Transformers character would you want to have for yourself?
I would personally like the ability to teleport/warp like Skywarp as there are places I need to reach which I can’t sometimes.
What drew you to Transformers, making you become a fan/collector?
My late grandmother did. She introduced me to something which is for boys and said these robots seem to be a very good fit for a little boy at my age of 3 to 4.
Do you think you will collect Transformers until you die?
Collect and keep them yes. But keep on buying, maybe not. I just have a specific wishlist to complete. Once it’s up, it’s done.
Do people outside of the hobby know you collect TFs (like at work/school)?
Yes, people do know and they do have very much negative things to say about it.
Were your family/parents supportive of collecting toys or did you have to hide your passion from them and friends?
All my friends and family know about my collecting toys. At first my parents were kind of against it as it eats up space but as I got my own place, I got to do what I like, stock up more toys.
What does your partner think of your hobby?
My ex-wife was kind of on the fence on this. It made me famous in the local toy scene so she was riding along that fame, else, she did not like the toys clogging the house.
Have you attended any fan-meets, Fairs, Conventions, Special Events?
Many but not many Transformers related. Recently I participated to display some cool Armada Era Transformers at a local RoboCon.
Any creative endeavours with Transformers (drawing, writing, customising, etc)?
I did have a story board in my head on a specific Transformers story culminating all Transformers series from G1 to Cybertron (my favourite list) and how ONE story can connect TILL ALL.
Favourite series/era/year, and why?
Super God Masterforce 1988. The first series that I was introduced on TV when the infamous Star TV dub came on air. I was mesmerised by how powerful Powermaster Optimus Prime (God Ginrai) was and how he single handedly defeated Black Zarak.
Collect any comics?
Nope, none.
Favourite Comic issue/story, and why?
I never really read them but I did the 1991 or 1992 Transformers Annual which was a hard cover compilation. I like the story on how Carnivac actually turned against the Decepticons and not liking the cause.
Favourite Cartoon episode/story, and why?
If I were to choose, I will go for Super God Masterforce’s Ep 15 The Birth of Super Ginrai. That was the episode that first saw Ginrai becoming a Super Robot, something that not many Transformers could do at that time.
Favourite Character, and why?
Ginrai. The human + the robot. Although he lacks in leadership and judgement, he covers up with compassion and care towards his subordinates like how he risked his life saving Go Shuta when he was lured into the Decepticon sea base.
Sexiest Transformers (robot) Character?
I’d say Arcee. The only robot that is definitely sexy.
Which Transformers character would you want to exist for real?
I’d like to see a Star Saber in real life and see how a plane of such mass can work.
Approx TFs toy collection count (or give a range like 200s, 300s, 2000s etc):
Probably close to 300s I think.
Sealed collector or out-of-packaging collector?
PLAYER. I’d like to pose my Transformers out of their plastic / cardboard graves.
How much do you think you’ve spent on your collecting habit?
Probably close to US$5,000?
Any rare/expensive figures in your collection?
I have a G1 Refurbished Complete Black Zarak. That is the rarest and most expensive piece in my collection.
What interesting Licensed Merchandise items do you have?
I do have a Bumbleebee pillow from Universal Studios Singapore.
First Transformers toy?
G1 Powermaster Optimus Prime which is still around this day.
One toy you most want?
Takara Micron Legends Convoy Final Battle version set aka the Japanese version of the Powerlinx Optimus Prime from Armada.
The centrepiece/favourite toy in your collection at the moment (and why)?
LG custom repainted Fire Guts God Ginrai done up in pure Orangey goodness.
Favourite toy in your early years of collecting?
It will have to be the Energon Prime with Energon Omega Supreme.
Worst toy(s) ever in your opinion?
I would have to say the G1 Duocons. They look funny, so off proportions and they don’t really have arms.
Toy(s) that were most disappointing when you got them?
LG35 Super Ginrai. My first official Transformers after a long hiatus of not buying Transformers and my God, it sucks. The legs are wobbly, some joints are loose, so many problems. I don’t know where criticisms should start.
Thoughts on gimmick and non-convertible Transformers toys?
I’d say some gimmicky stuffs like Minicons from Armada are pretty nice and the Cyber Keys from Cybertron are very neat. However, I do stand my point on non-transforming Transformers being not Transformers at all.
Which single TFs toy should every fan own?
A WFC / Earthrise Optimus Prime. That is the closest to a G1 Optimus Prime you can get.
Which Transformers toy/product would you give as a wedding present?
POTP Optimus Prime. To signify the young lad (Orion Pax) will now slowly evolve into a full grown man (Optimus Prime).
Many thanks to David for sharing his hobby with us. Got any follow up questions for him and his fantastic Transformers collection? Pop it in the comments section below!
It’s been over two years since the last installment, but we have another entry in the ever popular Transformer Fan Interviews! In this latest interview with Aussie TF collectors we are talking to Michael Vella, a young bloke who in recent years has become well known to many fans of Transformers down under.
Name and/or nicknames:
Michael Vella but I also go by Tha_Phantom online.
Family?
Married to my hobby:
What a breathtaking life partner he has!
Career?
I rearrange things out of order they happened so that they make sense. What I’m trying to say is that I do video editing for a living.
Website/Fan-pages?
I help admin a Facebook group called Transformers Down Under with fellow collectors Ben Keenan, Adam Templeton and Justin Masaru.
How would you rate yourself on a C scale, C10 being MISB Mint perfection, to the lowest C1 ‘junker not worth it even for parts’?
Probably a C6. Acceptable at a glance, but definitely some many issues present…
Do you accept into your life Big Angry Trev as your toy collecting savior and the Alpha (Trion) & Omega (Supreme) of all things?
Yes.
The admiration is palphable
Fan/Collector since (year)?
I started getting into collecting and watching Transformers around 1999. I know I was aware of Transformers earlier than that, though. They’ve sort of always been around because of my older brother being a fan. If memory serves correctly, 2005 is the only year since 1999 that I didn’t purchase at least one Transformer. I’ve taken a step back from collecting at certain times here and there, but ever since Combiner Wars I’ve been constantly buying and haven’t slowed down.
Transformers Allegiance, if you had one?
Maximal, because who doesn’t want to yell “maximise” as they transform?
Your Techspec motto if you had one?
“Prime’s death was an inside job.”
What existing, official Transformers character best describes you?
Probably Starscream. Always ambitious, but never getting there.
Which special ability of any Transformers character would you want to have for yourself?
Skywarp’s teleporting sure would come in handy.
What drew you to Transformers, making you become a fan/collector?
I think it’s the obvious aspect that you get two (or sometimes more) toys in one. I love that each toy is a unique experience and they have covered so many different alt modes now – especially since Bot Bots! I quite often will buy a figure based on the alt mode if I don’t already have a connection to the character and quite often the alt mode is why I will pay attention to a character.
Do you think you will collect Transformers until you die?
Yes, definitely. There’s always something to add or replace in the display. It’s never finished.
Do people outside of the hobby know you collect TFs (like at work/school)?
Most people I interact with do know I collect. I don’t try to hide it but I also don’t go out of my way to bring it up unless it’s somehow relevant.
Were your family/parents supportive of collecting toys or did you have to hide your passion from them and friends?
There was a bit of disapproval in my teenage years but now everyone in my family has accepted that’s what I do. I think they also like seeing that I’ve made a lot of new friends because of it since joining the online fandom.
Have you attended any fan-meets, Fairs, Conventions, Special Events?
Yes, I’ve not only attended but organised plenty of Sydney and even Melbourne fan meets over the years and helped run Transformer-related stands at a couple of Supernovas. As far as special events go, I was there for the POTP reveal at Hasbro Australia headquarters in 2017. I also contributed some of my own figures to the More Than Meets The Eye exhibition at Kings Comics earlier this year and I most recently was at the Sydney premiere of the Rise Of The Beasts film thanks to Hasbro Australia!
Any creative endeavours with Transformers (drawing, writing, customising, etc)?
I’ve mildly dabbled with customisation, but nothing worth showing off. I usually get someone else to do it.
Favourite series/era/year, and why?
G1 era for sure. Those characters and designs always stuck with me from watching the cartoon, even though I grew up at a time when Beast Machines, RID and Armada toys were on shelves. As a kid I would often pretend that the current toys of the time were those G1 characters if they vaguely resembled them in some way! The vintage G1 toys have a such unique charm to them as well, despite the lack of articulation. So I’m thankful to be a part of online communities where I can back-collect them and learn more about the different variants and such.
Favourite Cartoon episode/story, and why?
My favourite cartoon episode is War Dawn from G1. I felt it had a good message and it was really cool to see the origin of Optimus Prime.
Which Transformers character would you want to exist for real?
G1 Jazz.
Approx TFs toy collection count (or give a range like 200s, 300s, 2000s etc):
Currently at around 1200.
Sealed collector or out-of-packaging collector?
Out of packaging for the most part. I am the type of person who has to transform everything at least once. I do have some sealed items, but in most cases those are doubles or variants of loose figures I have, because curiosity would get the better of me otherwise.
How much do you think you’ve spent on your collecting habit?
I wouldn’t be able to guess, but it’d be an insane amount.
Any rare/expensive figures in your collection?
Yeah, I’ve always had a focus on the rarer items so I won’t go through them all. Some highlights would be a set of MOSC G2 Stunticon limbs, G1 Battle Gaia, a couple of test shots/prototypes etc.
What interesting Licensed Merchandise items do you have?
An employee-only Happy Holidays RPM Bumblebee and 5/6 colour variants of the 1985 McDonalds Bumblebee toys (these toys were released only in a test market in the US).
First Transformers toy?
The first Transformers I ever bought were Beast Wars Scarem and Air Hammer at the same time with some confirmation money.
One toy you most want?
A Powered Convoy DX set, but realistically that’s never going to happen and it’s not technically a Transformer anyway. My current Transformer grail is a lucky draw Armada Prime, which I mostly want for the Sparkplug as I have all of his other colour variants. Sparkplug was a very special toy to me as a kid because of the obvious similarities to Bumblebee.
The centrepiece/favourite toy in your collection at the moment (and why)?
Probably my proudest acquisition would be my Diaclone red Mirage, but again that’s not technically a Transformer. So let’s go with my 1991 reissue Bumblebee as it was the first Bumblebee I ever got and I will never part with it even if I got out of collecting.
Favourite toy in your early years of collecting?
I can remember being so over the moon when I got Beast Machines Jetstorm and that is a big part of why I got so into collecting Transformers as a kid despite the lack of G1 on the shelves at the time. The metallic deco and overall aesthetic just grabbed me.
Worst toy(s) ever in your opinion?
Not that I owned them, but I got to mess with a few of the first year Cyberversetoys and they were pretty bad especially for the price. Thankfully the line improved after that.
Toy(s) that were most disappointing when you got them?
It’s not something I tend to think about a lot, but Earthrise Bluestreak disappointed me so much so that I reverted back to the Siege version. Titanium War Within Optimus didn’t impress me much either because of the poorly thought out use of die cast.
Thoughts on gimmick and non-convertible Transformers toys?
I think that we as fans (but more so Hasbro) often forget that the most important gimmick for a Transformer should be that it converts from one thing to another, so generally I don’t care for other gimmicks that get in the way of that. I also have very little time for non-converting toys for that reason too, since that downgrades Transformers to being just like any other toyline. All that said, I do have exceptions to this rule. Especially from the 1987 G1 year as a few of those gimmicks were pretty cool.
Which single TFs toy should every fan own?
G1 Bumblebee! Such a timeless conversion that I’ll never get tired of and it’s easy to carry around with no accessories to lose. I may be a tad biased there, though.
Which Transformers toy/product would you give as a wedding present?
Probably some Transformer themed cufflinks or a watch.
Do you collect other toys?
I do have interests in other toylines and collectables, but none come close to the extent of my Transformers collecting. My non-Transformer interests are Digimon cards and tamagotchis, Beyblades, McDonalds toys, Power Rangers, Star Wars, Tazos and DBZ anime cels.
What is your favourite TF themed post on this website?
I remember seeing your posts on TCCA when I was fairly new to the online community. Because of that, I already knew who you were when we met in person for the first time at thePOTP reveal.
Many thanks to Michael for his excellent interview. Got any more questions for Mr. Vella? Pop them into the comments section below!
On Thursday the 8th of June, here in Australia, some of us lucky few were chosen to attend a Special Preview Screening of Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.
Love getting invitied to these special events – thanks Hasbro and Paramount!
The lads Mikey and Clinton from the Toy Reel channel were invited along to do a pre-movie taping, discussing the potentials of the new film as well as interviewing some of the special guests attending. This included professional film reviewer David Quinn, as well as fans Wes and Kelvin.
And naturally, if they are interviewing people they weren’t going to miss out on that master of all things Transformers, the curator of the world famous Transformatorium, Big Angry Trev himself!
I’m here, and I’m fabulous!
So enjoy this discussion from the lads from Toy Reel and their 4 interviewee’s (if you want to be naughty and watch the bit with me first, its at the 8.20 mark 😉)
Don’t forget to check out all the other video’s on the Toy Reel YouTube channel, and give them a like and subscribe while you are there 😊
For the past 6 weeks the fabulous More than Meets the Eye Exhibition has been on show at Kings Comics in Sydney. This has consisted of original Transformers artworks by recognized modern artists, as well as toy displays by prominent Australian collectors, showcasing Transformers merchandise from the past 25 years.
I was lucky enough to be invited to the VIP Opening Night of the exhibition and while there, along with Eddie Zammit – the curator of the exhibition, and Toy Exhibitor Lisamree Chiu, I was interviewed by the lads from Each To Their Own in their That Figures! series of videos. Check out their video below:
You can find more video’s by these talented guys at @EachToTheirOwn – make sure to check them out! And speaking of checking things out, make sure you get down to Kings Comics to see the Exhibition by Radio Velvet before it finishes up at the end of April!
When a celebrity comes forth that has the same name as you, it can be kinda annoying. How many Keanu’s out there spent years being asked ‘what’s it like in The Matrix?’ for example.
Well sometimes it can be worse, especially when the name you were innocently given at birth by loving parents gets associated with something negative (the name Adolph doesn’t get used much anymore eh). And now in the 21st century one of those names is Karen.
So whats it like being named Karen in a world where ‘Karen’ has become such a negative connotation – a pejorative rather than a first name if you will? To find out I asked my cousin Karen, who though Karen by name is definitely not a ‘Karen’ by nature.
One of the lovely ones 🙂
*Please Note: to avoid confusion, the adjective usage of Karen will always appear in italics with talking marks – ‘Karen’; it’s usage as a first name will be simply Karen.
Over the past few years ‘Karen’ has become an increasingly popular term to describe women that are privileged and demanding, insisting on their own way, becoming used as the adjective ‘Karen’ rather than simply a first name. How does it feel to have your birth name used as an insult to others? It is irritating or something you just laugh off?
Well at first it was funny and I myself got a good laugh out of it… especially with the “Covid Karen” Now I’m starting to find it a little annoying and offensive and I find myself saying (when I’m asked for my name) “I’m not one of those Karen’s!”
The term ‘Karen’ to describe a woman who feels the desire to complain first cropped up in 2016 and then gained popularity in 2017 from where it has continued to spread. Do you think it will eventually disappear to be replaced by something else, or is the term here to stay?
I think it will eventually be replaced by another name but I feel it will still pop up from time to time. Especially from my family.
In the town you reside in, in December 2019, a woman actually named Karenperformed a very ‘Karen’ act which was trying (unsuccessfully) to rip down her neighbors Aboriginal Flag and questioning his ancestry. The video of this went viral worldwide, earning the tag #toostrongforyoukaren and even lead to an anti-racism rally. The incident has been resurrected in 2021 with the Karen in question currently attempting to sue over 30 news outlets that reported the story. How did it affect you that another woman named Karen did a ‘Karen’ act in your very own town, thereby reinforcing the idea that the name can be used as an insult against women?
‘Story run by one of the outlets being sued – note the lack of surname usage’
I was actually disgusted and angry at what happened here in 2019. I was actually embarrassed to tell people my name was Karen as the “Karen thing” went crazy everywhere.
In October 2020 the San Francisco Police Code officially introduced theCaution Against Racially Exploitative Non-Emergencies (CAREN) Act. This was to prohibit the fabrication of racially biased emergency reports – essentially to stop white women calling the police to come arrest black families who were guilty of nothing, something ‘Karen’s’ in the US are most well known for. Do you think the ‘Karen’ phenomena is predominantly an American cultural issue, or do you think it is worldwide?
I think it’s pretty much a world wide thing, just in different degrees.
Some have said the insult ‘Karen’ is both sexist against females and racist against Caucasian women. Where do you stand on this?
I don’t find it sexist or racist. I don’t feel it’s aimed solely at white females in general. I’ve actually hear the “Karen tag” used on a couple of men.
I hesitate to ever use the term ‘Karen’ because of our relationship, and we are simply cousins who have not seen each other in many years and primarily interact with each other on Social Media. What about the people closer to you in your life like friends and family, do they ever use the term ‘Karen’? Or do they refrain from doing so because of their relationship to you?
Well my family use it quite often! ️ It’s a bit of an inside joke around our house, but they have never used it outside the house in front of others. I think they know that it was a bit of a joke to start with when it all first started but a few of the “Karen’s” have gone a bit to far and caused problems and it is no longer funny.
Have you yourself ever watched any ‘Karen’ videos, such as the Bunnings Incident in Melbourne of last year?
“I have the right to do whatever I want!”
Ohhhh yes… how could you miss it!! Plastered all over TV and social media. Bunnings “Karen” was a total disgrace and certainly didn’t do anything to help the “Karen Thing!”
And finally, what would you say to the following groups:
*Other women named Karen:
Well I guess while they are picking on “Karen’s” they are leaving someone else’s name alone.
*Women who act like ‘Karen’s’:
Don’t stereotype Karen’s… there are plenty of Julie’s or Jans (or whoever’s) out there who act just like “Karen’s”
*People that use the name Karen as an insult:
Obviously they’re vocabulary is very limited 😂
Many thanks to my lovely cousin Karen for doing this interview.
It’s been a few months since the last installment, but we have another entry in the ever popular Transformer Fan Interviews! In this latest interview with Aussie TF collectors we are talking to Trent, a good bloke who is always willing to help a mate out with a sought toy, or provide some online sparring to entertain and amuse.
Name and/or nicknames: – Trent
Family? Yes
Career? Tiny cog in the ever churning capitalist machine
How would you rate yourself on a C scale, C10 being MISB Mint perfection, to the lowest C1 ‘junker not worth it even for parts’? C6 – 99% complete but has significant wear in joints and stickers are faded. It would also appear that there are no reprolabels available for my model.
How would you rate your attraction to Big Angry Trev? With one being ‘very’ to 10 being ‘I purposely shave my head and paint a red dot on top in the hopes Trev mistakes it for a giant breast and lavishes it with his tongue’? – Sorry. I’m not attracted to overcooked lobster.
Editor’s Note: Smarmy arsehole
Fan/Collector since (year)? So, I was thinking about this a few weeks ago. I was trying to figure out when I got my first Transformer. The earliest TF memory I have was of stealing a G1 Hot Rod from the kid that lived across the street. He brought it over to play with and I thought it was so awesome that I hid it under my bed and he went home having forgot about it. My elaborate ruse came undone however when I took it to school and the taxi driver noticed that my shiny new Hot Rod was the same as the shiny new Hot Rod that the kid across the road had lost. So I sadly marched over to his house and proclaimed that I had found it under the lounge! Hooray!! After that I recall a G1 Optimus and Ultra Magnus showing up as well as a Kup. It kinda snowballed from there. I stopped collecting once I hit year 6 or so and agreed to sell all my TFs to assist with some family financial troubles.
I watched a bit of Beast Wars when I was a teenager but it wasn’t until my 20’s when I saw an Armada Starscream in K-Mart that my interest rekindled. I loved that Starscream and still have it today. I collected quite the number of Armada, Cybertron, G1 reissues and so forth but stored them all at my mother-in-law’s place when we bought our first home. It wasn’t until some years later I went back to get them that I realised she threw them all out without even asking me. While at the time I was beyond pissed these days I don’t hold it against her though as they are just things, not people. These days I collect a bit of everything. MP, G1, Generations, Cyberverse, third party, whatever tickles my fancy really.
Transformers Allegiance, if you had one? I suppose it’d be Autobot? Being a Decepticon seems like a lot of effort. Like Megatron would expect you to do things, and not pay you overtime for it. Optimus seems a bit more laid back. Like he’d let you take of early on Friday and would understand if you threw the occasional sicky on a Monday.
Your Techspec motto if you had one? Megatron can kiss my shiny metal @*$!
Editor’s Note: Referencing Whirl referencing Bender? Very meta.
What existing, official Transformers character best describes you? G1 Outback
Which special ability of any Transformers character would you want to have for yourself? Mirage’s invisibility. Maybe then I could get a minute of peace and quiet.
What drew you to Transformers, making you become a fan/collector? Giant fighting robots that transform. I’m a bit of an engineering nerd. I’m not an engineer, because that would be a horrible job. But cool engineering of any kind fascinates me and I have a very logical brain. So I view them as a sort of 3D puzzle.
Do you think you will collect Transformers until you die? I ask myself this a lot. I’ve been through enough up and down collecting phases that I’m not too bothered when I get a bit bored with the franchise. In fact I’m probably not at my most interested right now. I have a ton of unopened TFs and my displays are in a bit of disarray. However I know I’ll come back around. And my son is obsessed with TFs and playing games with him is seriously one of the highlights of my life. But will there be a time to get out of the hobby? I’m not one who sees this hobby as an investment. If you think you’re gonna cash out of this hobby ahead or even anywhere near equal are you need to go speak to a financial advisor and prepare yourself for a shock. But that’s not why I do it. I buy them because I think they’re really neat. And as long as I enjoy them, then I’ll keep them. I think my son will happily take my collection when I die and that would be the best possible outcome for me. As it is he’s become somewhat of a TF collector himself and the grand old age of 6. He’s particularly into toy photography and he’s not bad at it. I’ve added a few of his photos for a bit of fun.
The kids got talent!
Do people outside of the hobby know you collect TFs (like at work/school)? Maybe 6 people at work know. I don’t advertise it. I work in a blue collar industry and while I don’t care what other people think of me, I also don’t see the point of making my life harder than it has to be. Because while some of my colleagues are great people, they’re old school and if they found out I collected toys, there’d be no malice in it, but I’d literally hear about it every single work day until they all retired or I left because I work with some BIG personalities.
Were your family/parents supportive of collecting toys or did you have to hide your passion from them and friends? Family aren’t worth squat if you have to hide who you are from them. My dad kinda rolls his eyes and grumbles at the money I sometimes spend but he’s cool. My mum usually notices when I add new ones to my displays and asks me about them. My brothers are cool too.
Editors Note: I get the feeling Trent’s son approves of his hobby as well
What does your partner think of your hobby? My wife is the most awesome person ever. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive partner even though she’s not into any of my “Nerd Stuff” as she calls it. She bought me that Armada Starscream all those years ago and more recently, when I was worried about the cost, told me if I didn’t preorder the HasLab Unicron, she’d do it herself. I sometimes feel really bad because she doesn’t collect anything. So I make sure when something does catch her eye, she gets it.
Have you attended any fan-meets, Fairs, Conventions? Been to lots of Paramatta Toy Fairsover the years. I don’t live in Sydney so it’s always a bit of a hike for me to get to these things. Been to a few Penrith fairsbut my god! I don’t go that far on holiday so I only went to them on occasion. And now with COVID canning everything I haven’t seen anyone all year. I do have a chat group with a few fellow TF collectors and that has actually grown into solid friendships with all of them so that is great. We are always there to chat with one another and they have helped me through a few rough times, if only by making me laugh.
Editor’s Note: Back atcha buddy
Any creative endeavours with Transformers (drawing, writing, customising, etc)? I did draw an Optimus Prime the other day. We had a new appliance delivered and my son wanted the box to turn into an art space. I’d just like to let IDW know that I am available and that I’m sure we can work out a mutually agreeable fee.
Favourite series/era/year, and why? The default answer is G1. I grew up with it, it’s what started it all and it still permeates every part of the franchise to this day. But to leave that as my answer would be a disservice to the franchise. I think there are so many good stories and toys that the franchise has put out over it’s life that they need a mention. Animated would be the one that comes to the forefront of my mind. It was so divisive when it came out. The new aesthetic and take of the story was a radical departure from what had come before and even I didn’t like it at first. But it grew on me and now my animated figures are a highlight of my collection.
And as a subgroup, even though it is G1, I can’t not mention Micromasters. Any TF fans with kids will know what I’m talking about. They are just so much fun and so easy. Once you add in the big sets like Skystalker or Countdown, maybe throw in a G1 Fort Max as a base and watch your kids play, or even play with them, you really have distilled the whole franchise down into its purest form.
Collect any comics? I collect the collected IDW editions. I’m about 5 years behind but slowly catching up. On my ipad I have read up until around the time that Megatron defeats the DJD and just haven’t had the time to go back to them to finish them, but I will.
Favourite Comic issue/story, and why? I love Autobot Megatron in MTMTE. The idea of a reformed genocidal maniac responsible for the deaths of billions of beings across the galaxy getting stuck on a ship sharing command with an egotistical brat, an almost OCD second-in-command and a crew of clowns on a quest is a marvellous concept. The way James Robert’s was able to set the light, humorous tone but also incorporate moments in which the gravity of who Megatron was and what he had done was fully realised by the reader was great writing.
Favourite Cartoon episode/story, and why? I, like everyone else, was always partial to Call of the Primatives. I wish the whole series could have been animated to that level.
Favourite Character, and why? My favourite character has always been Ultra Magnus. I have a strong suspicion that the G1 UM was the first TF I ever got. And I loved it. I remember playing with it and taking it everywhere. I even kept it in its box.
You can imagine my disappointment then when nearly every iteration of Magnus throughout the franchise has been, in my opinion, a chump. G1 Magnus was this hulking, powerful bot yet hardly ever did anything of value. Animated UM was an arrogant tool, only outdone by Jerky McJerkface himself. The original Marvel run saw him have a very cool story however it eventually led to a very unsatisfying end. IDW MTMTE was good and his latest iteration, the Netflix Siege version, had a decent ark I suppose but still didn’t live anywhere near up to the expectations 5 year old me had.
I’ve always wanted to see Magnus as a more measured, logical and restrained version of Grimlock. A powerhouse that could unleash hell when he needed to but was always conscious of the fallout and collateral damage that doing so would cause.
Sexiest Transformers (robot) Character? Rung. Because I’m sure there’s fan fiction about that alt-mode…
Which Transformers character would you want to exist for real? Sky Lynx. Because Sky Lynxis awesome and anyone who disagrees can bugger off.
Approx TFs toy collection count (or give a range like 200s, 300s, etc): 200-300? My collection has always been this evolving thing. But it’s starting to climb in numbers. Especially now my son is kinda a young collector.
I think our sons would get along real swell
Sealed collector or out-of-packaging collector? Open them. Let your kids play with them. Otherwise you’re just like The Man Upstairs in The Lego Movie.
How much do you think you’ve spent on your collecting habit? Lots.
Any rare/expensive figures in your collection? A few. It’s not why I collect plus I’m also terrible at picking what will go up in value. In fact if I ever buy a TF because I think it’s going to be rare/worth something, just hold off until it’s on clearance for $10.
What interesting Licensed Merchandise items do you have? None that I can think of. I like commissioning comic artists but haven’t gone nuts with that. I got this earlier this year as a group by a friend organised. It’s wonderful.
First Transformers toy? G1 Ultra Magnus (I think)
One toy you most want? MISB G1 Ultra Magnus. I’d love to have a pristine example of the toy that started it all for me.
Editor’s Note: Wow – you are really into Magnus eh! Remind you to show you my one from the Titanium toyline 😉
The centrepiece/favourite toy in your collection at the moment (and why)? Not a toy but that megaposter I mentioned earlier. Every time I take a moment to stare at it I notice something new.
Favourite toy in your early years of collecting? So as to give a different answer, I’ll say my G1 Galvatron. That was a cool toy.
Worst toy(s) ever in your opinion? Those things from the last year or two that only half transform. I can’t even….
Editors note: I agree! Those figures from Cyberverse that don’t transform fully are total shite!
Toy(s) that were most disappointing when you got them? The recent Earthrise Quintessonwhen I got it was disappointing. I mean it looks great, until you transform it into that jail thing and then it’s like, what is even going on here?
Thoughts on gimmick and non-convertable Transformers toys? Gimmicks can be successfully integrated, they can also ruin a toy. MP-44 is an example of a toy that had a gimmick successfully integrated.
Which single TFs toy should every fan own? I suppose a G1 Optimus. It’s not the first, but it is a defining toy that is still being released today.
Which Transformers toy/product would you give as a wedding present? I mean, I wouldn’t. But maybe a Chromedome/Rewind cake topper?
Do you collect other toys? Lego sets that catch my eye. I have a UCS Millennium Falcon sitting in the bottom of my wardrobe to be built when I eventually get a house with somewhere to put it. As well as some other cool sets. I still have a few classic space sets from when I was a kid.
I also collect Macross Valkyries. Although I don’t get anywhere near as many of those as they aren’t cheap. I also just realized you could probably call me a Voltron collector.
What is your favourite TF themed post on this website? What website? Does Trev have a website? I never even suspected.
Editor’s note: Double Smarmy arsehole
How did you find out about www.bigangrytrev.com ? Trev never shuts up about it.
Editor’s note: Fricken Triple-smarmy arsehole!
Many thanks to Trent for this interview (I think) . Got any more questions for Trent? Pop them in the comments section below and I’m sure he’ll happily answer them.
Much to my jealousy, I have a couple of mates who are involved in a wonderful and really fun event that takes place a few times a year to raise money for charity. So instead of just slinging them a few bucks as I usually do, I wanted them to give them a chance to give an account of what they do and how you all can donate too!
So without further ado, I’d like to introduce you to my oldest friend (all the way back fromgrade 3!)Clint:
And my coworker and good mate Laurie:
And they are going to tell you all about the Shitbox Rally.
*So it’s pretty well known that TheShitboxRally happens to raise money for cancer. But how do you actually go about raising the funds?
Laurie: We do fundraising events throughout the year and also get sponsorships from businesses and people donate funds to us.
Clint: Well it’s been a struggle to be honest. The 2020 will be my 3rd year doing the rally, 2018 being our first year was the easiest to raise money. Friends and family that are the “donation type” gave money. And not to make light of the situation by any means – my teammate Tom’s father-in-law was going through terminal cancer and actually passed away during the fundraising. Chloe’s family and friends raised a fair amount for the cause. We ended up raising $17,485. This year was a struggle, the “donation type” friends had done their donation the year before and Paul had to put in around $1,000 each to make the targets. In the end we only raised $5,410. One thing that i had been doing for all rally’s is i sell Honey from my bee hives for $15 per k/g which is a good steady income. Penny does some photography for a local bike clubs etc for donations. A new thing been doing is pimping myself out!!! I have a Dingo (mini digger) that i do work for people in the neighbourhood for nothing – just want a $100 per hr donation that has been working well. Have found that it’s been easier to raise money from people that actually get something from their donation. The 2020 really we have been very lucky so far Tom’s work started a fundraising in 2018 that only just made it thru the system this year, so he put it toward my team as he can’t do it this year. So big thanks Tom!!
*What kind of timeframes and distances are usually involved in the rally?
Laurie: The rallies are usually over 7 days and cover a distance of 3000 to 3500 klms. The spring rally that we participated in was the 10th year of Shitbox Rallies so it was extended to ten days and covered a distance of 5150 ks.
Clint: So typically the Shitbox Rally is 500-600km per day. So over the 7 days of rally it’s around 3,800km. The 2019 rally was over 10 days (being the 10 year anniversary) and was about 5,200km. But that is not normal and will probably not happen again. Their is also the Mysterybox Rally that is smaller and starts and finishes in the same town over 5 days. I have not done one of these yet and has different rules.
*What are the rules regarding car specifications?
Laurie: Cars must cost less than $1,000 and cannot be AWD or 4wd.
Clint: The car and any repairs to make it road worthy is to cost less than $1,000. So if you buy a car for $800, then you have $200 to spend on “repairs”. But decorations etc is open and is highly promoted! It’s awesome some if the things that people come up for their cars and the costumes that come out. Some that should never been seen again!
*Apparently even though there are up to 250 participating cars all driving to the same places on the same days, you actually drive in small teams. How do these teams work?
Laurie: Teams are split into Buddy Groups consisting 6 to 7 cars who travel together for the rally. Groups leave at different time each morning, it takes about an hour for all teams to head out each morning. Groups must travel together and if one car stops or breaks down all of the Buddy Group must stop.
Clint: So every car is in a Buddy Group of 7 cars that is allocated a number from 1 to 36. This Buddy Group stays together through thick and thin. Each group has minimum of 2 “mechanical type” of people that know more than which end of a hammer to use and 1 First Aid. So if any car has to stop for any reason (flat tyre, overhearing, “code yellow”) – all cars in the Buddy Group stop until either all cars can drive off or car is loaded onto a support trailer and all gear and people from that car is put into other cars for the remainder of that day.
*Take us through an average day (if there is such a thing) on theShitboxRally.
Laurie: Every day is different after breakfast groups start leaving at 8-30 for the next stage, lunch is usually supplied and you eat whilst driving.
Clint: Well my normal day is – wake up early. Really early and go – lets say “loose some weight” before breakfast. The breakfast line get’s really, really long when the major crowds get to breakfast. So 250 cars, around 25 support vehicles. That’s 550 people (most hungover) that want breakfast. That’s why I “loose some weight” before breakfast as being hungover and well, you get the idea… One of the town’s that we stopped at in 2018 had 9 residence living there… so some towns have very little amenities so big lines for stinky toilets! After breakfast we collect lunch and snacks (provided) have a drivers briefing then we get let out buddy group by buddy group. It does take a while to get out in the morning – especially on dirt roads, generally the last buddy group coming into camp is the first to leave. But 250 cars, with 3-400m between each car (so your not driving in dust) that’s 75-100km of cars! During the day there is usually a town with fuel that we all have to stop at and wait in a line to fill up. Doing the rally you learn to be patient – so it’s good to have a good buddy group that get along as there is always pranks going on. On day 3 the Shitbox cars really start to show their real colours with suspension problems, flat tyres, rock damage to fuel tanks, exhausts being lost. A lot of things can be butchered on the side of the road, big problems and the car goes on a trailer and fixed at night – if it can not be fixed it’s pronounced dead and the drivers are given a medal at the drivers briefing the next morning – they then become passengers within the buddy group for the duration of the rally. After the days driving it’s filling up with fuel in the town and then head into the camp, clean the dust off your bags and set-up. Go get some dinner and maybe a beer, maybe 2…. Then it all starts again tomorrow!
*Tell us about some of the funny things that happen on the drive.
Laurie: During the rally you have dress up days on our rally they were Village people, Smurf Day and Princess Day. All teams dress up in costume for these days.
Clint: Wow, where to start. The first day of the rally is always the best day! All the cars gathered in their “best condition” and the costumes that come out. The 2018 rally started on Megan and Harry’s wedding day – so I wore a wedding dress & wig and Tom had a suit with a rangga wig. At nights in the “triage” where the broken down cars are – i’d like to say fixed but more so mended… That’s where you see some awesome bush mechanics being done. Turning a car on it’s side to work safe on the suspension. Using tennis balls to repair shock absorbers. This year most of the rally was really dry – but recently there was some rain so their was some bog holes. They had tracks around them but you didn’t have to use them – but you need to hit them with some speed. Anyway one of the cars in our buddy group got stuck. It was a dress up day (that’s a story in itself!!) so the driver wallowing around in the mud all dressed up with a bunch of others all putting their 2 cents worth in taking video and being towed out! That was some funny shit! Ok, the dress up days. During the rally they have generally 2 dress up days. This year was Village People and Smurfs. You have no idea how many men want to wear assless chaps.
Ok, now the not so funny side of the rally and the reason we do this. On on our way to Perth, driving along the freeway before the Great Australian Bite and saw another Shitbox parked in what looked like an old fuel station (no buildings left just big open area) with the driver sitting on the front of the car on the phone. I was driving and said to Paul, “lets see what’s going on” went back and she was actually on the phone to Royal Flying Doctors (RFD). Her passenger was having problems, my diagnosis was she was having a stroke (had not long ago done my first aid). I spoke with the RFD and discussed my thoughts with what i could see and used my Emergency+ application on my phone to get GPS coordinates. He advised that there was a Aboriginal town 3km down the road that also has a RFD airport. Was given the number of the head nurse and organised to meet art the clinic. So we all drive down there and went to the clinic. We still had a few days of driving to get to Perth so had to leave them their. Long story short, she was flown to Adelaide that night, had a brain scan the next day and has inoperable brain cancer. So the driver had no phone service where we were, passenger could not remember her pin for her phone due to her condition. If we had not turned around she would have probably died on the side of the road – that’s what the Rally Family does.
*Where can people go in order to support your team?
Laurie: To donate go to Shitbox Rally website, click donate select team Pole Support and donate.
Clint: Our team this year is called “It Really Hurts”as every part of cancer really hurts. We are driving from Brisbane to Alice Springs (where the rally starts) to drive back to the Gold Coast in a 2001 Suzuki Baleno. The car kind of resembles (but is nothing like) the Wayne’s World car, so that is going to the the theme and we will dress up like them daily. That’s my plan anyway!
If they want to find out more about the rally – this is the 7 day version and a few cool short videos that are worth a watch. Our 2018 car made it in a few times i white Nissan with a mannequin torso on the roof and big yellow flag https://www.shitboxrally.com.au/
Thank you to both Clint and Laurie for taking the time to answer my questions, as well as the wonderful work they do for charity. I swear one day I’ll convince one of them to take me on as a co-driver.
Today, instead of interviewing our usual Aussie Transformers Fan, we will be interviewing an international one, and someone who could be considered the quintessential expert on all things toys. Today we are in fact interviewing the Jolly Fat Man himself, Santa Claus.
B.A.Trev: Santa, thanks for joining us for this interview. I appreciate this is a very busy time of year for you.
Santa: Ho ho, no problem Trevor. I’m a big big fan, love your work.
B.A.Trev: Glad to hear it. And thank you for being so generous over the years.
Santa: Oh ho ho, you’ve always been such a good boy!
No coal in my stocking!
B.A.Trev: Now, are you aware how these interviews work?
Santa: Oh yes, I read everything on your fantastic site so I’ve seen all the previous interviews. Have at it!
B.A.Trev: Ok, here we go:
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOU Real name or what friends call you?
Saint Nick, but my friends call me ‘Joe’
Country you live in?
I actually live on constantly converging and shifting sea ice in the middle of the Arctic Ocean. Makes getting the mail a real headache.
Your occupation?
Anthromorphic Personification of Yuletide cheer and commercialism
Your dream job?
Surfer
Your age?
I stopped counting after 300, it got depressing.
Single/married/kids?
Got a missus. There are lots of children-sized elves that work for me but they are NOT my kids, no matter what that lying bitch Debbie in accounts says!
What other (non-toy) interests do you have?
(sighs) Keeping warm
What type of music/movies/TV/books do you enjoy?
I’m a big fan of Die Hard. A great Christmas movie and book!
TRANSFORMER QUESTIONS Transformers Allegiance, if you had one?
Ho ho, an Autobot of course!
Your Techspec motto if you had one?
‘Whatever happened to wooden trains?’
What existing, official Transformers character best describes you?
Astrotrain, he can carry a huge amount and fly around the entire planet in one night!
Which special ability of any Transformers character would you want to have for yourself?
Skywarp’s teleportation, then I’d never have to go down another damn chimney again!
Do you think you will collect Transformers until you die?
(looks morose and resigned) Other people get to die, I just have to go on… and on…. and on. Never do I get to feel the sweet kiss of eternal slumber.
Have you attended any fan-meets, Fairs, Conventions?
Well, I attend a lot of shopping malls I guess.
Any creative endeavours with Transformers (drawing, writing, customising, etc)?
I outsource all that these days.
Favourite series/era/year, and why?
Beast Wars – all the kids in that era wanted were pointed sticks and to not get eaten by robotic insects.
Least favourite series/era/year, and why?
Cyberverse – where is the craftsmanship? I’d fire an elf on the spot if he designed that Warrior Megatron figure.
Collect any comics (which ones)?
Do you know what snow does to paper?!
Favourite Comic issue/story, and why?
The IDW Holiday Special is a wonderful! The Dreadwind one where he is visited by ghosts is very good as well.
Favourite Cartoon episode/story, and why?
Definitely Transformers Animated: Human Error I & II. The one where Gears becomes all jolly is a favorite from years gone by.
Favourite Video/Board game and why?
Transformers: The Robot Warrior Game. No electronics to soldier.
Favourite Character, and why?
Tracks. He is a flying car – no rule that says ground vehicles shouldn’t fly, it’s very believable.
Sexiest Transformers (robot) Character?
Toys are NOT sexy! They are to delight youngsters and encourage play and creativity…
Which Transformers character would you want to exist for real?
Tidal Wave – big enough to house my manufacturing plant and he won’t sink every time the ice moves. (looks exasperated) Honestly, why did I choose to live there – it makes no sense!
First Transformers toy?
I remember making a little wooden man who when you folded him backwards would look like a horse. I thought it was a real winner until Ms Claus pointed out that the mans (expletive deleted) became the horses tail. What’s wrong with it being anatomically correct I say? You have dolls that (expletive deleted) and (expletive deleted) themselves for the kids to clean up for (expletive deleted)s sake!
Worst toy(s) ever in your opinion?
Atari Jaguar – do you know how long it took to make the controllers for that thing? 3 elves died of exhaustion and then no one played with the finished product anyway!
Toy(s) that were most disappointing when you got them?
An elf once presented me with a snow globe with a figure of me inside. Yeah, that’s what I want, to be in more (expletive deleted) ing snow! I kicked his little (expletive deleted) so hard he was (expletive deleted)ing blood for a week!
Thoughts on gimmick and non-convertable Transformers toys?
Non-convertible Transformers are great! Take zero time and effort to build.
Thoughts on unlicensed fan-project figures/accessories?
Wannabe toymaker hacks – the lot of’em!
Thoughts on Crossover Transformer toys (Star Wars, Street Fighter etc)?
I always thought some Yuletide ones were in order, maybe a sleigh that turns into a jolly figure in a red suit? Would be a real winner!
Thoughts on the Transformers Brand over the last five years?
They seem to get more simplistic as the years progress which is less work for me I guess. Takes an elf about 5 minutes max to put together a Cyberverse toy.
Which single TFs toy should every fan own?
Optimus Prime – he is big red and his trailer is magic!
Which Transformers toy/product would you give as a wedding present?
Don’t I give enough presents already?!
B.A.Trev: Many thanks for answering those questions. Do you have time to answer a few questions sent in from fans?
Santa: Ho ho, of course Trev, anything for all the little boys and girls out there.
Hey there Santa. Pretty sure I asked for a G1 OP circa 1984/85. Any reason you didn’t deliver?
(Just so there’s no lingering ill-feeling, would be happy to accept one this year. MISB if you please).
Because you were on the naughty list then and you are still on the naughty list now! I’ve seen the Facebook clips where you demolish perfectly good toys in order to ‘make them better’. How do you think that makes me feel!? My craftsmanship isn’t good enough for you – you need to turn a perfectly good Transformer into a MOTU figure!? Screw you Michael – if I see you you’ll be getting a lump of coal shoved straight up your ass!
From Trent
So Santa, there is only one of you. And obviously there is a limit to whatever black magic you tap into to fly around the World in one night. This is most evident in the fact that no 2 Santas are the same when it comes to Christmas photos. So how do you explain it? My parents tried saying that they are your elves dressed up but we both know that’s false. Your elves are far too short to impersonate you. How do you justify holding kids to the high standard required to get presents year after year when you yourself lie and send impersonators, impostors even, in your stead? Do you see the hypocrisy here Santa? What does Mrs Clause think?
It’s called outsourcing – just be thankful all my Santa’s aren’t some call-centre rejects from the 3rd world. And I’m trying to grow a franchise here, people pay me to dress as me and give me a cut of their earnings, then they recruit 10 more people to dress as me and they get a cut of their earnings and so on. It’s called an ‘iceberg scheme’ and everyone wins!
As to what Mrs Claus thinks, just leave that alone. The day I came home to find her in bed with 3 Santa Impersonators and she swore that she thought I had just used some Xmas magic to clone myself in order to really give her stocking a good stuffing – it still haunts me to this day! I don’t wanna talk about it anymore.
Also, my next question; Why only the Christian world? What you got against everyone else you fascist?
They believe in me, they get a gift. They don‘t believe in me then they don’t. I live off the belief and worship of others and in return they get crass consumer products. It’s not fascism, its commercialism – where have you been?!
Santa: I thought you said these questions were from fans?
B.A.Trev: Er… yes. But I think some of them are more my fans than yours.
Santa:Grumble, fine let’s just get the rest over with.
My question, I was always the good child growing up and my brother the naughty one yet he was younger and always got more presents than me. Wtf?
There is a thing called ‘The Hitler Gene’. It’s very diffuse now to the point that even when both parents have it, it doesn’t guarantee that all their kids will. You have it, he doesn’t. How do you think people would react if I was heaping extra presents on the opffspring of the great great, great nephew of the 15th cousin thrice removed of the world’s greatest monster (not counting the guy that came up with Kiss Players)? Don’t blame me – blame Uncle Adolf!
Santa, so.. lugging all those toys around… how do you manage the storage of the pressies and where do they hide on the sleigh? Is it like Optimus Prime‘s magically disappearing trailer? And if so did he show you the trick or did you show him?
Indeed I do use a subspace fold in order to increase the storage capacity of the sleigh. I have to admit, I learned it from him. I might be centuries old but he has a few megaannum on me.
Do you deliver presents to good protoforms on Cybertron too? Or do you delegate to a Cybertronian (and if so who?)?
I have a couple of reps on Cybertron who handle things up there on my behalf
Megatron was responsible for billions of deaths but has turned over a new leaf abroad the Lost Light. Has he done enough to deserve a present this year or will he get coal again? (Of course he could turn that coal to Energon so maybe that’s not a bad gift for a Transformer)
Well I have to handle things year by year. I can’t not give little Timmy a present this year because of naughty things he did the year before. So yes, Megatron will be getting a present…
… an old copy of ‘Interstellar Travel Guide to Pleasant Planets’. Of course most of the planets in it have been destroyed because of his war, but it can’t be helped if my gift reminds him of all the death and destruction he caused can it?
From Mayza
Movie Optimus has been executing Cons, will he be getting a lump of coal?
Those Cons were killing humans. Less humans means less belief to power me. Have at them I say Optimus! It’s ‘Peace on Earth, Goodwill towards Men’ not ‘bots’.
Also Santa, what are your thoughts on Michael Bay, will he also be getting a lump of coal?
I think all the reviews of the new Bumblebee movie, when compared to the reviews of The Last Knight, will be punishment enough this season.
After giving so many of us coal for so many years, do you regret that now, given you could have been giving us solar cells or something similar?
People were supposed to stick those lumps of coal under a heap of heavy books for a few hundred years so their descendants could have diamonds – not my fault if people burned perfectly good gifts!
Also, my kids said they’d like the first issues of Whatever IDW are going to produce next for Transformers, I told them it was a long shot since it’s not available yet, but they insisted.
I’ll have a chat with Vector Prime and see if something can be worked out.
B.A.Trev: Well Santa, thanks so much for taking the time to answer all these questions today.
Santa: Ho ho, my pleasure, Merry Christmas to all!
(sotto voce as he walks out) except for that Trent guy, now there is someone who is going to feel the sharpened end of a candy cane shoved right up his stocking!
Usually fan interviews on this blog consist of people who are fans of Transformers and/or yours truly. However today we are interviewing someone who I am a fan of. As the big sis of long time blog reader Maddy, this is a person whom I have had the honor of meeting once or twice, as well as conversing with online when I’ve had a few too many and want to vent about the current political issues plaguing this country. She is The Greens Councillor for Moreland, North-East Ward, Natalie Abboud.
Given it can sometimes mean a life where you are working hard for a populace where the fashion is to openly distrust and dislike politicians, what lead you personally to enter a life of politics?
I get a $28k taxable allowance at Moreland (the Moyoralty is more but it’s full time) so it’s certainly a job you do for love or challenges. I’ve always been engaged in politics and ran in a couple of elections I couldn’t win so when I was tapped on the shoulder for council I was up for it. I also work hard and answer calls in an effort to break the stigma. People don’t always need to agree but we all want to be heard. I had some great conversations about Australia Day.
For those of us that are ignorant of what politicians actually do, what are some of your primary responsibilities? How does a usual day at work play out for the Councillor for Moreland?
Monday’s and Wednesday’s are blocked out for emails and meetings but I often do stuff most other days too.
I’m the Cr responsible for Youth, status of women, and Social Diversity, multiculturalism and Reconciliation. I sit on the Oxygen Committee, audit and risk committee, chair the Human rights committee and I’m the council rep for the Disability working group and the reconciliation working group.
This means I attend up to 4 night meetings a week and occasionally(once a week) I go to other conferences and events.
As a Member for The Greens, what do you believe are the three main issues (among the many) that need immediate and significant action in our country today?
-Renewables (why do the Gubs keep resisting them?)
-Transport (why can’t we have trains like Japan?)
-Addressing the Climate emergency
Where do you see The Greens in ten years time?
Holding balance of power in Vic which will lead to more action in State Parliament. Not sure about Aus. I’d like to see two more in the Federal lower house and maybe a few more senators.
As a young man I didn’t care much about voting, I just liked the requisite sausage sizzle. My first election I voted for The Democrats as I had a crush on Natasha Stott Despoja. My second I voted for The Shooters Party as I thought it would be funny if they won and would give me material for my stand-up comedy routines. My third I voted for The Sex Party because a big fat bearded guy in a bright yellow T-shirt gave me a flyer while I was waiting in line to vote. Now that I am (somewhat) more mature, as well as a parent, I vote for The Greens because I care about the state of the planet my kids will grow up on, as well as many of The Greens policies aligning with my personal moral compass. Do you find young people are more ‘switched on’ to voting and politics now than in decades past? Or does one need to get a few years under their belt in order to understand the depth of the issues and the importance of ones vote?
Young people are more engaged than ever. Young people understand the risks we face. Politics is very conservative in Aus which has alerted people. (This could be wishful thinking but the Greens have many young active members so I exist in a bubble)
I’ve never understood those that treat Political Parties like football teams, as in they will ‘barrack’ (vote) for that Party no matter what they do or what their current policies are. What methods does one take to sway voters of that mindset?
Vote compass is effective. Get people to talk about policy not personality. Having a crush won’t get the results you want from your government 😉
Show people where government is active, any action is about getting votes. Ie the schools money and Scott (Hillsong) Morrison or trying to throw Barnaby Joyce at the drought. In Vic it’s all about marginal seats. Moreland council has been asking for a really dangerous intersection to be fixed for years, now that Pascoe Vale has gone marginal we were just promised $11m to fix it. Meanwhile in Frank McGuire’s electorate of Broady (next door) the Windows of the schools are literally rotted shut and the carpets are rotted or threadbare.
There is a growing movement in rural areas by farmers for the government to take action on climate change. Yet a large amount of country people remain voters for The Nationals, even though as part of the Coalition they have taken no real action on this issue and have within their ranks a significant number of climate-change deniers. Do you think this may signify a possible shift in rural voting habits for the future and what can The Greens do to bolster their presence in these regions?
I sure hope so. We are running a guy called Serge Simic who is a farmer for the seat of Ripon. He came here escaping the breakup of the Former Yugoslavia as a child with his family. Water will be the real issue. The cockies are already involved in “hay battles” South Aus is unhappy that NSW is getting their hay, grain is being freighted from WA. That kind of thing is completely unsustainable.
Sad thing is, Serge is getting trolled by hunters who don’t wanna be locked out of the national parks so we have a way to go.
On our farm we subsist on rainwater (not easy in a drought) and if we want our rubbish taken away we have to drive it ourselves to the tip. This contributes towards our mindset of conserving water as much as possible as well as trying to create minimal waste. How do you encourage people in a large city to be ‘waste conscious?’
We are heavily focused on getting food waste out of landfill at the moment. The container deposit scheme was voted down again by the old parties which is disappointing.
No matter, it took gun control ten failed bills to parliament by the Greens before a massacre at Port Arthur finally got it over the line.
Now for a few personal questions if I may:
*Living in the second most populated city in Australia, what do you in your own life to ‘stay green’?
Try not to use a lot of plastic, compost everything we can, grow veggies, ride my bike when I don’t have the kids, shower in a bucket and use the water for plants, we are about to have solar installed on our new house and I don’t do stuff like get acrylic fingernails or consume a bunch of unnecessary crap. I still regularly feel like I can do more though.
Your sister has been raising some lovely chookies over the last few years. Where you live do you have a yard big enough to have any animals? Or perhaps a couple of fruit trees and a veggie patch?
We have had chook but they got eaten by foxes, bit by snakes and other fatal things. My FIL has 4 so we get eggs from him. We live on 1500sq m so we are very lucky. We have a big veggie garden and this year we will grow tomatoes, peas, Lebo cucumber, pumpkin, beans, lettuce, beetroot, sorrel, corn and I’m trying Okra for the first time. We have heaps of herbs and rocket. We also have apple, olive, orange, tangelo, lemons, peach, nectarine, plums, apricot, avocado and a passion fruit vine and a walnut. (Most of those trees are established and bear fruit but some are still young). I want to add cherry and almond.
And of course I have to ask, with three strapping young lads of your own, who are their favorite Transformers?
