PEMBERTON RISE
THE PEAK
Land size from 600m2 - 756m2 Land from $589,900
Elevate your lifestyle even higher with the next release at Pemberton Rise, offering even more elevated blocks with spectacular sweeping views over South Jerrabomberra, the Tralee Hills and beyond.
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Larger blocks, with stunning views
Enjoy elevated blocks surrounded by natural landscapes and sweeping views of the Tralee Hills and beyond.
Low maintenance, high comfort
Spend your weekends relaxing, not repairing in a brand new home that’s easy to maintain and built for comfort.
Live close, stay connected
Less than 20 minutes to four major Town Centres and the Airport, you are in close proximity to everything you need.
Build
a
smarter home Room to grow Land for your lifestyle
Enjoy smart home technology, year-round comfort with modern heating and cooling, and lower energy bills with energyefficient design.
Your block is just the beginning. Enjoy vibrant parks, modern amenities, and a thriving community that enhance everyday life at Pemberton Rise.
Perfect for growing families, these spacious blocks offer room to play, grow and entertain, creating an ideal space for family and gatherings.
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Pablo Picasso, Woman in a multicoloured hat (Tête de femme au chapeau), 1939, Museum Berggruen, Neue Nationalgalerie— Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz © Succession Picasso/ Copyright Agency, 2025, photo: © bpk/Nationalgalerie, SMB, Museum Berggruen/Jens Ziehe
TURNER Botanical
Amalgamated Property Group and Base Developments expand Canberra portfolio with launch of latest residential project
Leading Australian residential developer
Amalgamated Property Group (APG) is adding to its Canberra portfolio with the release of Botanical Turner, a high-end project delivered in partnership with Base Developments.
Designed by the award-winning SJB Architects, Botanical features spacious one, two, and threebedroom residences in a prime location on the edge of the city, within walking distance of Braddon, O’Connor and the CBD.
With SJB’s impressive track record and accolades including the 2023 International Interior of the Year (World Architecture Festival) and the
2024 Premier’s Prize (NSW Architecture Awards), partnering with their architectural team to bring this landmark project to life was a natural choice for the developers. Featuring bold geometric architecture and a colour palette that celebrates Canberra’s visual identity, Botanical’s façade showcases a harmonious blend of tones that transition from red brick at ground level to warm terracotta hues and a crisp white upper layer. The striking, layered design is complemented by open thoroughfares and elegant arched walkways, allowing residents to move easily through the amenity-rich development. From the outset, the design team considered scale, rhythm, and civic presence, shaping curves
around existing trees and drawing on Canberra’s natural identity to create something both grand and grounded.
Boasting an abundance of high-end amenities, residents can enjoy the large, lush central courtyard, concierge services, an architecturally designed indoor pool surrounded by nature, as well as a spa, sauna, steam room and large gym. The north-facing orientation of the indoor pool ensures it’s bathed in sunlight throughout the day while remaining sheltered in the cooler months, making it ideal for year-round wellness and exercise.
The project’s distinctive architectural approach, combined with its prime inner north location, is expected to generate strong long-term value for these homes. Turner is a beautiful tree-lined suburb on the fringe of a number of lifestyle amenities, so Botanical’s residents will benefit from many conveniences, including a light-rail stop almost directly out the front and numerous walking and bike paths in its immediate vicinity.
Inside, the spacious residences are designed with a rich, earthy palette and high-quality materials, offering a warm, timeless style. To foster a sense of connection, the building floorplates have been carefully considered to ensure its
design encourages neighbourly interaction and a community feel.
To experience Botanical’s quality, potential buyers can be immersed in the finishes and materials first-hand with a visit to the custom-built two-bedroom display home located next to the site. The display also features a detailed physical model to give buyers the opportunity to appreciate the architecture up close.
This development offers a vast number of floorplans, enabling purchasers the luxury of choice to find a home that best suits their needs, with the range including one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses, as well as courtyard and two-storey homes. Every residence also includes basement car parking with an EV provision and plenty of storage.
LJ Hooker Project Marketing Development Manager Keenan Veraar said Botanical’s location and design made it a standout investment.
“The central location and uniqueness of the project will ensure that Botanical becomes a very sought-after place to live. This will provide an ongoing capital gain and establish apartment rental returns that will be some of the highest in Canberra. It’s a pleasure to work with Amalgamated and Base, as we know with certainty that our buyers will be happy at the end of the day,” he said.
“
Canopy, Ivy in Phillip, Kiara in Narrabundah and more. The pair also have Amaya Broadbeach under construction on the Gold Coast and released another Broadbeach project earlier this year, Affinity Broadbeach.
Featuring bold geometric architecture and a colour palette that celebrates Canberra’s visual identity.”
Amalgamated Property Group and Base Developments are the same duo behind a number of other successful developments in the Capital, including the threetower Oaks precinct in Phillip, which is also home to Canberra’s first pure Build-to-Rent project, Oaks
With a commitment to sustainability and community engagement, Amalgamated has been busy paving the way in changing ACT’s property landscape over the last 20 years, also responsible for premium developments such as The Griffin, Civic Quarter and the upcoming ANZAC Park East and The Eastbourne on Constitution Avenue
Base Developments has a strong track record in the ACT and surrounding NSW regions, with several award-winning projects to its name. Most recently,
the Avia development received two major honours: the 2024 HIA ACT/Southern NSW Apartment Complex of the Year and the 2024 HIA ACT/ Southern NSW Apartment of the Year. Other notable projects include Natura and Elody in Denman Prospect. Current developments on the market include Mio and Emerald in Googong, as well as Denman Peninsula in Denman Prospect.
For more information on Amalgamated Property Group, visit amalgamatedpropertygroup.com.au
For more information on Botanical, visit botanicalturner.com.au
Min EER NatHERS 6.0 stars.
Canberra’s great Australian baker
by LILLIAN ALTMAN
ACanberran will feature in the upcoming season of The Great Australian Bake Off
Kelarnie Whalen, 23, is one of 12 amateur bakers to feature on the spin-off of the BBC’s The Great British Bake Off. She is the youngest contestant this season.
Kelarnie said taking part in the show was one of the most stressful and overwhelming things she has ever done.
“It’s just crazy. All your emotions are so heightened,” she told CW
“Then right now looking back, I’m like, ‘Oh, that was the coolest experience.’
“I think it’s just so stressful. You’re constantly getting compared to others; you’ve got the judges comparing you and then you’re comparing yourself to others.”
Kelarnie clearly remembers her first bake on the show.
“I got it done, then I looked over to everyone else’s and I was like, ‘Mine’s nothing compared to theirs,’” she said.
“I remember the day after we had a break and at the end of the day, I was like, ‘I need to rewrite every recipe I’ve ever done for the show.’”
She said it was also a cool experience for the contestants to put their own spin on the bakes.
“From your bakes, you see a bit of everyone’s personalities,” Kelarnie said.
“Throughout the bakes, you get a little bit more of an understanding of why people are baking something.
“You get to show little stories within the bakes.
“There are a few things I do that are an ode to my family to showcase it through that, which my sister doesn’t even know yet, so it’ll be a little surprise for her to see.”
home with a quote that said, ‘If you don’t knock on the door, it won’t open,’ and I was like, that’s so true. Gogglebox isn’t going to call me unless I apply.”
When she saw that applications were closed, she had a look at what other shows were casting. That’s when she came across The Great Australian Bake Off
Midway through the process of applying, she received an email from production encouraging her to finish her application.
“If they didn’t do that, I definitely wouldn’t be on it,” she said.
Kelarnie has been baking from a young age.
“It was the thing to do when you’re a young girl that wanted a sweet treat: just go and bake and get a packet mix,” she said.
“There are photos of me roller skating while baking cupcakes.
“I look at it now and I’m like, ‘They’re the ugliest cupcakes I’ve ever seen in my life.’”
She said it continued from there. “It just kept going. I’ve just always been more into the classic brownie, just things that I enjoy eating,” Kelarnie said.
“The most technical thing I was doing at a young age was macarons because I was obsessed with eating them. They were my favourite things to eat, so I was like, ‘Obviously I’ll just learn how to make them so I can have them constantly.’
“That just seemed like a no-brainer to me.”
She said it then became a way to connect with people.
“I’d always be the one to ask, ‘Can I bake you a birthday cake? Can I make you this?’” she said.
“I’d come back to Canberra and I’m bringing 30 cookies in my suitcase to give to people.
“It’s just my kind of way of showing people that I love them.
“I’ve always been the person who makes the desserts for the family.”
“It’s just my kind of way of showing people that I love them.”
Kelarnie initially planned to apply to be on Gogglebox Australia.
“I thought, ‘That sounds like a perfect show.’ I love yapping and so do my friends and I think we’re the funniest humans ever,” she said.
“So I was like no brainer, perfect for Gogglebox.
“Then I did nothing about it, and my friend came
Kelarnie is originally from Canberra and has also lived in the Solomon Islands. When not baking, she works for Canberra business Keane Consulting as a recruitment consultant.
She has been in Brisbane for the past 18 months, where she is studying a dual Diploma of Sport and Diploma of Leadership and Management through the Brisbane Lions Football Club.
Kelarnie isn’t the first Canberran to feature on the show; Bojan Petrovic was a contestant in season three in 2016.
You can follow Kelarnie’s baking adventures on Instagram (@platesivebaked) and TikTok (@kelarnie).
The Great Australian Bake Off will screen on Foxtel and BINGE from 29 July at 7:30pm.
Canberran Kelarnie Whalen is a competitor on this year’s The Great Australian Bake Off Photo Jordan Mirchevski
Volunteer tax must be scrapped
with BILL STEFANIAK AM RFD FORMER ACT
LEADER
I was amazed at how stupid and arrogant the local ALP government has become with its imposition in the Territory budget of an $11 tax on anyone who wants to become a volunteer in the ACT. I was therefore pleased to see Canberra Liberals leader Leanne Castley announce she will seek to disallow this retrograde measure when the Assembly resumes in September. I would hope the independents and Greens will support its
disallowance. I note Fiona Carrick has already committed to doing so.
Canberra has always been blessed with volunteers for all manner of sporting and community organisations. It’s part of the very fabric of our vibrant society.
Thousands of Canberrans freely give up many hours of their time each week to help out and run the various groups and organisations that make Canberra such a great place to live. Now, most of us can afford $11, but that’s not the point. It’s a clear disincentive for citizens to get involved. It’s a slap in the face and devalues the good work so many Canberrans do as volunteers.
Just think how much it would cost to pay for the work our volunteers do for nothing. It would run into the hundreds of millions of dollars, perhaps even billions.
Now, I know many Labor members have no idea how to spend money wisely, but surely they can’t be so short-sighted as to kill the goose that lays the golden egg.
I would hope Labor will have a rethink and scrap this insane tax themselves before Leanne’s disallowance motion is even debated.
On another note, I was saddened to see the Independents for Canberra party dissolved. My daughter in law was a prime mover in getting it up and running and has explained to me why the group dissolved, but I’m not sure I agree with her. It was registered, still had great potential, and a sound philosophy that clearly struck a chord with the community. I’m well aware there were personality issues, you get them in any group, but just because there was a falling
out, and just because many in the group believed Tom Emerson only used it to get elected (he did resign from it soon after being elected, which I thought was strange), that’s politics, and in my view no reason to deregister the group.
The idea of getting all (or as many as possible) of the various independents together under one banner and working out who the best candidates to run are has great merit. One problem was that the Independents for Canberra organisers did not embrace groups that were prepared to play along and get involved, such as the Strong Independents and the Belco Party. However, the concept is a good one, and I hope whatever replaces it is successful in helping attract good, community-minded independents to stand at the next election.
Commence the New Financial Year with Con dence:
The 2025-26 ACT Budget: After taxes
with NICOLE LAWDER FORMER ACT MLA AND DEPUTY OPPOSITION LEADER
I’ve got a Johnny Cash song called “After Taxes” playing in my head as I look at the twenty-five or so increased fees, taxes, rates, and charges in the recent 2025-26 ACT Budget. It’s a song about a man dreaming of what he will spend his pay on: he must change his plans once he realises how much the government will take in taxes.
This Budget of “tough decisions” is, according to the new Treasurer Chris Steel, designed to tackle a record deficit that topped $1 billion – a deficit entirely of the Labor Government’s making, which they now expect all of us Canberrans to fund. Labor love launching bright new shiny things, not to mention wasting money, but cannot keep their spending under control.
The money you pay in your rates is meant to
cover essential services – like our hospitals, schools, police, and roads. Then on top of our rates, we pay a Fire and Emergency Services Levy, and a Safer Families Levy. The introduction of both levies was clever politically. It is hard to disagree with them, on the basis that it may look like you are not committed to eliminating domestic and family violence, for example.
So, our Treasurer may have expected he would encounter the same lack of political resistance with the proposed new $250 annual health levy on all ratepayers. Instead, it became a lightning rod for criticism, forcing the government into an embarrassing backdown after just five days. Even federal (Labor) Health Minister Mark Butler refused to endorse the health levy, which was slashed to $100 after pressure from the ACT Greens, exposing the government’s political vulnerability in a minority parliament, with additional payroll tax revenue expected to make up the shortfall over the forward estimates.
Some feel the Liberals missed the opportunity to negotiate on the Health Levy. But don’t forget the Liberals’ ideology is lower taxes and rates – even a
reduction in the proposed levy is still an increase.
Providing Health is important – and expensive. According to my latest rates notice (July 2025) 32% or $2.6 billion of rates revenue goes towards Health, the largest portion of the Budget. The Budget papers say that will go up to 33% this year – still not the 36% the Treasurer allegedly quoted.
Other unwelcome news this Budget: public transport fares rise; concessions reduced, the Rent Relief Fund has ended, and the controversial introduction of an $11 fee for Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) checks.
Whatever happened to Andrew Barr’s observation after the election that he could see people were struggling with the cost of living? As Opposition Leader Leanne Castley said, “This is not a budget that’s going to help Canberrans.”
This Budget may be remembered not for its fiscal reforms, but for the community anger it triggered and the fact that the Greens have finally shed the shackles of sharing government, and along with the Liberals are actually providing opposition.
For further discussion on this topic, head to Bitesized politics (around 15 minutes) on Spotify.
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GIVIT donation of the week: Kitchen starter pack
GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation in the region that provides services and support to Aboriginal people and their families. They are assisting a young First Nations woman who had been homeless. This young woman is finally moving into a property after being homeless. She does not have basic home essentials or own any furniture, so GIVIT is requesting the donation of a kitchen starter pack to help her get started. Your donation will mean the world to this young woman as she makes a fresh start in her new home. Generous Canberrans can provide a kitchen starter pack or fund the purchase of these items. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase kitchen items. To help please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’s-needed, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘kitchen starter pack’ and Suburb: ‘Hawker ACT 2614’.
Friends ANBG Thursday Talks
Anke-Maria Hoefer will talk about Frog-tastic facts: Bringing local croakers into your mind (and into your garden). Thursday 24 July, 12:30 to 1:30pm, ANBG Theatrette, opposite the Australian National Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre. trybooking.com/DAMGR. Gold coins, notes and EFTPOS donations welcome.
Simply Mindful
Simply Mindful is hosting a free event for a more mindful Canberra! You’re invited to unplug from devices, slow down, and sample mindful practices like yoga, meditation, and meditative drawing. When: Sunday August 3 from 10am to 1pm. Where: The Gathering Place, 4 Bancroft St, Dickson. There is no cost for this event, but please register: simplymindful.com.au/product/unplug-day-2025
View Club
Gungahlin Day: Come and help us celebrate View Australia’s 65th birthday and the 26th birthday of our club. We meet at the Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club in Nicholls on Wednesday 23 July. Cost is $35 per head for a 2-course lunch, 11:30am for 12pm. For fun and entertainment we are holding an action to take place after our meal. Please text or phone 0413 923 933 before Sunday 20 July if you would like to attend.
Weston Creek: Our next meeting will be held at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Corinna St Woden, on Tuesday 5 August. The meeting will commence at 11:30am, cost is $40, including a two-course meal. Pls RSVP to Barbara on 0408 864 616 by Wednesday 30 July. Our guest speaker is Li Peng from Canberra’s chocolate makers Jasper and Myrtle. Chocoholics can stock up!
Sahaja Yoga Meditation
Every Wednesday till the end of November 2025, 6pm to 7pm. Erindale Neighbourhood Centre, Corner of Sternberg Cres & Comrie St, Wanniassa. Programs are always free, contact 6257 2057.
HYH submissions
Submissions to our free Have You Heard community noticeboard are reserved for charity, not-for-profit and community organisations. Deadline for submissions is 10 days prior to the Thursday edition date. Email your submission with essential details – who, what, where, when, cost, contact details – to news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject heading. Flyers and attachments not accepted. Due to space restrictions, please keep it brief. Please note: publication in print is not guaranteed.
Christmas in July
The Reindeer’s Retreat & The Goodie Locker Beautiful Gifts That Give Back
Step into the magic of Christmas in July at The Reindeer’s Retreat and The Goodie Locker, two purpose-driven gift shops nestled in Narrabundah. From festive favourites to thoughtful treasures, every product tells a story— and every purchase helps change one.
As a social enterprise, we provide meaningful employment for young survivors of domestic violence and people with disabilities, funding coaching and support that empowers lives.
The Reindeer’s Retreat celebrates Christmas from October to January—a wonderland of festive gifts, decorations, and joyful experiences.
The Goodie Locker, open from January to October, is your go-to for affordable, meaningful gifts year-round, and teams up with the Reindeer’s Retreat for a Christmas in July you’ll remember!
This July, Discover:
• The Fragrance Bar – divine Australian-made candles, scents and oils.
• Heart of Country – First Nations art and makers.
• Winter Warmers – cosy beanies, scarves, gloves and candles.
• Christmas in July Gifts & Workshops – festive crafts, treats, and fun for all ages.
Visit us and experience beautiful gifts that give back
Heritage Cafe: Breathing new life into West Block, Parkes
In the heart of Canberra’s National Triangle, Heritage Café has found a home inside the revitalised West Block Building, and it’s already making its mark with fresh food, great co ee and its warm design.
With its refined interior of polished wood, soft leather tones and arched windows, Heritage blends the beauty of its historic surrounds with a fresh, modern approach to food and hospitality. The result is a café that feels firmly rooted in tradition, yet forward-looking.
“It was important to keep a lot of those heritage elements, the arches, the façade, while bringing in a modern product o ering,” explains Dimitri Damianakis, co-owner of Heritage.
Fresh food, made daily
The food and drink o ering is the beating heart of any café, and at Heritage, it’s the menu — built around fresh, local and seasonal ingredients — that makes it a go-to breakfast and lunch spot.
“Our focus is always on high quality fresh produce,” says co-owner Dimitri Damianakis. “We make all our sandwiches and salads in-house every morning, and the hot dishes change daily with di erent international influences.”
The café’s ever-changing hot food cabinet features everything from slow-cooked curries, chicken schnitzels, hearty roasts and plenty more. These o erings change with the seasons, and the new à la carte menu will reflect the same commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients.
“We’ll have café classics like bacon and egg rolls, eggs on toast, Eggs Benedict, as well as our own take on smashed avo with chilli oil, signature salmon bowls and gourmet burgers, including a lamb burger that’s pretty exciting,” says Dimitri.
“At Heritage, it’s the menu — built around fresh, local and seasonal ingredients — that makes it a go-to breakfast and lunch spot.”
and a flexible, modern approach to flavour. “We adapt our menu seasonally, including the à la carte options, but the biggest strength is our cabinet displays.
Along with the selection of hot meals, Heritage also o ers a thoughtfully curated grab-andgo cabinet that is restocked each morning with house-made sandwiches, vibrant salads, as well as sweet and savoury pastries.
Dietary preferences are also well catered for, with a range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes available daily, alongside their selection of house-prepared sushi.
This expanded menu will stay true to Heritage’s philosophy of fresh, seasonal produce
“It’s really about providing fresh, local, and flexible options,” Dimitri says.
Great co ee, matcha and more
Of course, no café experience is complete without great co ee, and Heritage takes pride in serving OTHERSKY, an Australian-roasted co ee that is well-regarded amongst co ee drinkers.
Alongside the classic flat whites and long blacks, Heritage has developed a fun and modern matcha range, including the famous strawberry matcha and a signature passionfruit matcha topped with a scoop of gelato.
“OTHERSKY really ties in with this space,” Dimitri says. “It’s an Australian roast with earthy tones, a good fit for the character of the building.”
After launching around Easter this year, Heritage Café has already developed a loyal following with plenty of returning customers, something Dimitri is grateful for. “The feedback has been positive, and there is a great buzz and sense of excitement around both Heritage and the building being open. For many customers it’s quite nostalgic” he says.
A growing community
For the Heritage team, the project has been about more than just great food and co ee — it has been about creating a sense of place. Canberra’s National Triangle is rich with national institutions and political history and the West Block Building itself is a landmark.
“There’s a beautiful outdoor area that we’re excited to make more use of in summer,” Dimitri says. “It provides a really flexible space for our customers to dine-in.”
That outdoor space, framed by the West Block’s timeless architecture, is set to become a favourite among locals and visitors alike as the weather warms up. Whether you want a quiet co ee break, a casual meeting with colleagues, or a long lunch catching up with friends, Heritage
o ers an experience that feels both welcoming and special.
While Heritage stands on its own merits, it does share a little DNA with Symonston café Red Baron, which is run by the same team. Red Baron has developed a strong reputation amongst locals, and Heritage draws on the same commitment to good food and co ee done well, and great service. “There are definitely some similarities that customers might recognise” Dimitri says. “But Heritage is unique to the area with its own personality.”
Heritage is a celebration of what Canberra does best: bringing together the old and the new, the classic and the contemporary. It honours the character of the West Block Building while introducing something fresh, accessible, and relevant to today’s café culture.
As Dimitri says, “We’re really proud of the fresh, locally sourced produce and variety we o er, and we look forward to welcoming new faces to the venue.”
For those yet to discover it, Heritage is open Monday to Friday, 7am to 4pm. To find the café, simply head to the West Block Building in Parkes and follow the signs. Whether it’s a quick co ee or a long lunch, Heritage o ers a quiet pause in the middle of one of Canberra’s most historic precincts.
Heritage Café
West Block, 21 Queen Victoria Terrace, Parkes
Open Monday to Friday, 7am to 4pm @heritagewestblock
Take time with Randy Feltface and his research on bananas
by LILLIAN ALTMAN
Many people may know Randy Feltface as comedian Sammy J’s counterpart, but the purple puppet has carved a 20-year career of his own.
Bananas are believed to have originated up to 10,000 years ago – and Randy believes humanity has been in a downward spiral ever since.
First Banana will run at Canberra Theatre Centre on 21 July. Tickets: canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Where did the idea for this show come from?
I had a line in my last show which was ‘global evolution should have stopped at the first banana’ – I cut it and used it as a new show.
Ten thousand years ago was a pretty crucial time in the earth’s history in terms of where humans went – tracing it to the moment the banana arrived in the jungles of Southeast Asia. I did a deep dive on bananas.
Essentially, it’s a 58-minute banana conspiracy theory lecture – with two minutes of jokes tacked at the end.
How many hours did you spend researching bananas?
I didn’t tally it up. I spent about a month or two writing the show. I did the show all across Europe, the United Kingdom and a huge chunk of the US – so it has changed as I’m learning new stuff, making it funnier.
It’s the first time I’ve done a show ending the tour in Australia, so the show is going to be the most finely tuned bulletproof one-hour show I’ve done.
Sometimes (I start with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival), but the old way of doing it was starting in January, I would do the Adelaide and Brisbane (comedy festivals), then all that.
Now I’m spending a lot more time in the US,
performing at clubs and theatres these days, which is a different way of working the material.
What do you love about visiting and performing in Canberra?
I always come to Canberra. Canberra is the place I fled to post-COVID-19 lockdown. I managed to sneak my way across to Canberra and you guys were a lot less stringent – I’d spent eight months living alone and came to Canberra where crowds were gathering. I always love coming back to Canberra where it’s always the best shows, Canberra audiences … they’re great. Generally, there’s diversity and a liberal vibe…
I’m a huge fan of the Canberra Comedy Festival. I’ve done a lot with them in the past, the Christmas gala, I take up any chance I can to work with them.
This time I’m going rogue and swinging my wares through town.
Randy Feltface is returning to Canberra this July.
Photo Dylan Woodley
At Pursuit
Booktalk
Jeff Popple reviews three new novels ideal for rainy, winter reading. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com
Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry Red Tower, $34.99
Fantasy romance, or ‘Romantasy’, is one of the hottest genres in the publishing world today. Mixing popular romance tropes with fantasy plots about magic and monsters, it is finding a very eager audience. Devney Perry’s Shield of Sparrows has already raced to the top of bestseller lists overseas and a movie is currently in production at Amazon Studios. The story revolves around a princess who is chosen to fulfil an ancient treaty, and is sent on a quest with an infamous monster slayer to dangerous foreign shores. Full of legends, magical creatures, adventure and hot romance, Shield of Sparrows is a must for ‘Romantasy’ fans.
Be a Good Girl, Valerie by Marcia van Zeller Ventura, $32.99
Offering more serious fare is Marcia van Zeller’s Be a Good Girl, Valerie. Moving between London in 1978 and Perth in 2018, it tells the story of a wise and bold woman in her 60s, Valerie, who must confront her past as she tries to help her savvy Gen-Z co-worker Anna. When Anna is fired for rejecting her boss’s advances, Valerie becomes her champion, but in the process, she is forced to relive her own traumatic experiences as an aspiring TV reporter in 1970s London. This is a moving and enjoyable story about standing up for your rights and those of others.
The
Neighbours by
Emma Babbington
Harper Collins, $32.99
Fans of twisty crime novels with a strong focus on family relationships will enjoy Emma Babbington’s The Neighbours. The peace and quiet of a wellto-do Sydney street is shattered when the body of Richard Wellington, a popular surgeon and TV personality, is found in the local park. Known as the surgeon to the elite, Wellington also has a dark side, which gradually comes to light after his death. The pleasant cul-de-sac where he lived is now teeming with rumours and rampant speculation, but for Liv Elliot, her main concern is why her daughter was in the park the morning of the murder. Enjoyable, moderately paced fun.
CANBERRA WEEKLY COMPETITION WINNERS
The winners in Canberra Weekly’s latest round of competition draws are: Rosella prize pack: P. Hartlett, Bonner
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Now sh wing
Superman (M)
After much fanfare and media coverage, I was curious to see James Gunn’s Superman as both a standalone film and a reboot of the DCEU after a decade-long trainwreck playing catch-up to Marvel.
And given the dark and overly serious tone of that previous Zack Snyder-led slate, Superman is a distinct tonal shift right off the bat, fittingly fun and quippy without being too corny.
David Corenswet and Rachel Brosnahan are both well cast as Superman and Lois Lane, and Nicholas Hoult is my MVP with a fantastic performance as Lex Luthor, modernised as a perpetually frustrated, obsessive, ruthless tech-bro autocrat, channelling a menacing Kevin Spacey.
Visually it is flat, blue and heavy on CGI, with some sequences appearing as if they were ripped out of a video game, and an overuse of close-up wide-angle photography.
There are, however, a few choices Gunn should be applauded for, chiefly by deciding to forego the welltrodden path of the Superman origin story and dropping us right into the action.
Gunn has also decided to focus on Superman’s moral compass as both his primary strength and weakness, sidelining his invincibility and super strength to the point
where it’s almost a non-feature.
We know Superman as the morally superior superhero whose only weakness, other than kryptonite, is his compulsion to save any human life he can, often compromising himself to do so. But this is done repeatedly in a way that is just so on the nose.
I also felt a wave of disappointment in the third act when *spoilers* Metropolis was once again being destroyed.
Themes of immigration, social media and media more broadly, geo-politics, the military-industrial complex and corruption are all explored at a surface level with nothing much to say.
To broadly summarise where this falls flat, it lacks the impetus of a film that the maker needed to bring to life, instead feeling like a chess piece with the primary purpose of setting up a broader cinematic universe.
There just wasn’t anything here that felt fresh. Compare this to the genre’s benchmark, like Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy and even the early phases of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and it doesn’t come close.
I’m still vaguely interested to see where the new DCU goes from here. It’s not off to a flying start with this entry, but it hasn’t crashed and burned either.
Verdict:
It’s a bit plain; a fun if uninspired reimagining of Superman
- Denholm Samaras
POP up shop in Cooleman Court every Tuesday!
Christmas Markets
★ 15 Day River Cruise
★ Amsterdam to Budapest
★ 22 Freechoice excursions
★ 1 Scenic Enrich event
Let us take care of Christmas this year or next!
Earlybird o ers still available for 2025 departures, including Business Class Flight Credits up to $3500pp
T&Cs apply
5 bag trends Canberra can’t get enough of this winter
by DANI PASCUAL
As winter settles in, Canberrans are stepping out with more than just stylish coats. This season, bags are making a bold statement, balancing practicality with polish. From oversized totes to structured staples, here are five must-have bag trends heating up the capital.
1. Woven & basket bags
Belle & Bloom Long Way Home Woven
Tote in Burgundy – $219.95 (currently $153.97), Myer
Textured, tactile, and timeless, woven bags add dimension to layered winter looks. Ideal for brunches in Kingston or strolling through Haig Park Village Markets
2. East–west shoulder bags
East West Baguette Bag in Bordeaux –$499, St Agni
The baguette silhouette is back in a big
way, with a sleeker east-west design perfect for evenings in Braddon or a chic gallery stop at the NGA.
3. Soft utility & quilted crossbody
Oversized Quilted Crossbody –$159, COS
Plush, pillowy, and made for movement. This is the go-to for ANU students, errand runs, and casual catchups, where comfort meets effortless cool.
4. Doctor-style structured bags
Small Leather Doctor Bag – David
Copperfield – $535, Time Resistance
Vintage charm with modern edge. These structured bags are perfect for adding a touch of drama to your winter trench or tailored wool coat.
5. Oversized totes & market bags
Knees Deep Bag in Bark – $49.95, Status Anxiety
Big enough for your laptop, scarf, snacks, and everything else. Oversized totes are everywhere, from Civic to Fyshwick Markets this season.
Everybody is a body Swimsuit
Shopping for a swimsuit can feel like stepping into a fluorescent-lit emotional obstacle course — But here’s the truth: every body is a swimsuit body, and you don’t need to shrink, hide, or wait until next summer to deserve feeling confident in yours.
Swimsuit shopping isn’t about chasing someone else’s beauty standard — it’s about choosing you. It’s about finding something that fits your body, your life, and your energy right now — with comfort, confidence, and zero apologies. Whether you’re rocking a two-piece, a classic one-piece, or something in between, these 10 reminders will help you ditch the self-doubt and shop with power.
Because you’re not just buying a swimsuit — you’re reclaiming your space at the pool, the beach, and in your own skin.
1. Your body is not a “before” picture.You don’t need to change it to deserve a swimsuit you feel amazing in—right now.
2. Confidence looks better than any size tag.
The best suit is the one that makes you feel good, not the one society says you “should” wear.
3. Fit matters more than size.
Ignore the number. Focus on how it feels. Your comfort is the real glow-up.
4. You’ve lived in this body. It’s carried you through years, challenges, joy, and change. That deserves celebration, not hiding.
5. Style has no expiration date. You’re not “too old” or “too anything” for bold colors, fun prints, or flattering cuts. Wear what sparks joy.
6. A new swimsuit can change your whole energy.
It’s not just clothing—it’s permission to show up, relax, and enjoy the water, the sun, and yourself.
7. You’re not buying a swimsuit for other people’s opinions.
You’re buying it for your comfort, your memories, your beach days, and your self-worth.
8. Your shape is not a problem to solve. Good design is about highlighting what you love, not hiding what you don’t.
9. It’s okay to want support—physically and emotionally.
Whether it’s built-in cups, pocketed for a breast prosthesis or a kind word from our friendly staff, you deserve both.
10. You don’t have to earn a “bikini body.” You already have a body, and it already belongs in a swimsuit. The only requirement is that you show up.
What is déjà vu? Why you sometimes feel like you’ve been here before
with DR VIVIENNE LEWIS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA
Have you ever had that weird feeling that something happening right now has happened before? Maybe you’re walking into a shop, unpacking the groceries, or talking with a friend and suddenly you feel like it’s all happened exactly like this before, even though you know it hasn’t. That feeling is called
déjà vu, which is French for ‘already seen’. It’s more common than you might think. Most people will experience déjà vu at some point in their lives, usually for the first time in their teens or twenties. It can feel a little strange or spooky, but it’s actually a normal brain event and not something to worry about. Let me try to explain from a psychologist’s perspective, what is happening.
So what’s going on in your brain?
Psychologists believe déjà vu happens when there’s a little glitch in the brain’s memory system. Your brain takes in information all the time and quickly decides whether something is new or familiar. Sometimes, it accidentally sends the message that
you’ve seen or done something before, even though it’s your first time. It’s like your brain tags a new memory as an old one by mistake.
Another theory is that something about the situation you’re in, like the way a place looks, a smell, or even a sound, reminds your brain of something similar that happened before. Even if you don’t remember the first time clearly, your brain recognises the pattern, and you get that odd feeling of familiarity.
Déjà vu often happens when you’re tired, stressed, or distracted. That’s when your brain is more likely to mix things up. People also report it when they’re travelling or in new places that feel a bit like somewhere they’ve been before. Your brain in processing
the new situation and matching it with stored memories.
Some people with anxiety or OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) find déjà vu more upsetting than others. That’s because they tend to focus a lot on their thoughts and feelings and might worry about what déjà vu means. They might feel the need to understand or ‘solve’ the experience, which can lead to more stress or obsessive thinking. Knowing that déjà vu is just a common brain blip can help ease that worry.
Most of the time, déjà vu is completely harmless and lasts only a few seconds. But if it happens a lot, or if it comes with other symptoms like confusion, memory loss, or blackouts, it’s a good idea to speak to your doctor to rule out anything more serious.
For most people, though, déjà vu is just one of the brain’s many quirks. It’s a reminder that while our minds are amazing, they’re not perfect, and that’s totally normal.
Vapes smoke gums, lozenges for those struggling to quit
by TOM WARK, AAP
After trying for more than 25 years, Samantha Randazzo might finally have found the secret to quitting smoking for good.
An eight-week transition to nicotine vapes as part of a clinical trial has the 43-year-old off cigarettes, and even off vaping.
“It’s like real smoking. I put the vape to my mouth and blew out and it felt very similar,” Ms Randazzo, who started smoking at 16, said.
“It was a step in the right direction away from the cigarettes.”
The clinical trial she took part in, conducted by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, showed vaping was successful at promoting quitting among those who found it hardest.
“Nicotine dependence can be higher amongst those from socially disadvantaged backgrounds,” the study’s lead researcher, Ryan Courtney, said.
The trial recruited more than 1000 daily smokers receiving a form of government support and gave half an eight-week supply of nicotine vapes. The others received lozenges or gum.
More than 28 per cent of the group who vaped were still off cigarettes after six months, compared to just nine per cent of those on other therapies.
Associate Professor Courtney said the similarities between vaping and smoking were a big part of their success.
“(Vapes) have allowed for higher concentrations of nicotine to be delivered in a more smooth manner, and are more palatable,” he said.
While Ms Randazzo found four months of vaping was enough to kick both habits, the study results around subsequent vaping addiction were not as emphatic.
“We do find 58 per cent of people (given vapes) were continued vapers, so we really need to work more to help vapers not just quit smoking, but also quit vaping,” Assoc Prof Courtney said.
With prospective quitters needing a prescription to obtain vapes legally, calls for greater medical access are growing.
“There aren’t enough doctors willing to prescribe nicotine vapes,
and also not enough pharmacies that have taken up dispensing vapes,” study co-author Nicholas Zwar said.
Professor Zwar, who oversees smoking cessation guidelines for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, said nicotine pod devices were one of the safest and most effective ways to quit smoking through vaping.
“(Vapes) can be effective in a group with high prevalence of smoking and people who have not been getting access to existing forms of smoking cessation medicine,” he said.
Vaping could be more effective than traditional aids for people to quit smoking, a trial suggests.
Sweeping views in Braddon
Braddon 901/45 Ainslie Ave
Perched high on level nine of 45 Ainslie Avenue, this remarkable three-bedroom residence offers a rare combination of space, luxury and convenience in the heart of the city. Spanning an impressive 188m² of internal living, the home delivers house-like proportions with the ease of apartment living.
One of its standout features is the sweeping outlook across Canberra, with spectacular views that shift beautifully from dawn to dusk. Inside, contemporary elegance defines every detail, from soaring ceilings and brand-new Blackbutt timber flooring to high-end finishes and premium SMEG appliances in the kitchen. Two generous living areas provide plenty of room for families or entertainers, while the thoughtful layout creates a true sense of privacy and comfort.
Adding to its uniqueness, the home comes with an extraordinary five secure garage spaces – two double garages and one single basement space – making it ideal for car enthusiasts or anyone craving extra storage.
Located moments from Glebe Park and with Canberra Centre quite literally at your doorstep, you’ll have the city’s best dining, shopping and parklands within easy reach. This is modern city living elevated to a whole new level.
3 2 5
EER 6.0
Auction Thu 17 July at 6pm
Agent Goran Stefanoski
Mob 0447 032 017 LJ Hooker Dickson 6257 2111
The Difference.
Market Knowledge
We sell and appraise more property in Canberra than any other real estate network. Which means we have the most in depth understanding of the Canberra property market. LJ Hooker’s market knowledge ensures your home is positioned perfectly, priced right, and presented to achieve the strongest market response.
Experience the difference between getting it sold and getting a great result Contact us to find out more about The LJ Hooker Difference.
Contact your local participating LJ Hooker Office
Harbour Drive, Broulee $3,250,000
1. When the view is the destination. This coastal masterpiece captures everything we love about Broulee—endless ocean, island views, and a home designed to embrace it all.
2. A lounge room that feels like it’s floating in the landscape, and windows that frame the sea like artwork—this is South Coast living at its absolute finest. Broulee Living
3. More than just a home—this is a front-row seat to Broulee Bay, Mossy Point, Burri Point and Broulee Island. Walk to the water in 2 minutes, live in the view forever.
4. With 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, solar power, a Tesla battery, and views that never end… this is the kind of home people dream of—and it could be yours.
WIN! Bring home a piece of the Snowys with Monopoly
Just in time for winter game nights, the world’s most famous board game has had a local makeover with Snowy Mountains Monopoly. Your chance to roll the dice through some of the region’s iconic alpine towns and hidden gems.
From Cooma to Jindabyne, Thredbo to Perisher, snap up favourite local spots, trade landmark squares and discover new Snowy stories with every move. Every game sold supports The Community Chest Cooma, LAOKO Wildlife Rescue and local ski patrols. Games retail for $79.95, with SERVICE ONE Mutual members receiving $10 o
their first game. Pick up your copy at Community Bank Cooma in Centennial Plaza or Community Bank Curtin, or order online at serviceone. com.au/monopoly while stocks last. Want to win one instead? CW readers can enter to win 1 of 5 Special Edition Snowy Mountains Monopoly game packs, the perfect prize for your next cosy family game night. Buy it, play it and help your community too.
5. Live where others holiday. This stunning Broulee home blends e ortless luxury with world-class views—ready to welcome its next lucky owner.
ENTER TO WIN!
Development Opportunities
To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberradaily.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 25 July 2025 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+. To enter, you must be subscribed to a Canberra Daily newsletter.
• Elevated position with district views
• Flexible residential development potential (subject to council approval)
• Development options include:
◆ 4 freestanding houses
◆ 12 individual townhouses
◆ 20 side-by-side townhouses
◆ 40–70 residential units
• Highly sought-after location with strong growth prospects
• Peaceful township with growing development interest Peter Asbury - Fraser-Gray
Site
1,700 sqm (approx.)
• Flat land with dual street access
• Zoned for residential development
• Potential to build: ◆ 3 townhouses with satellite units attached at the rear
• Positioned on the main street, directly opposite the oval, tennis courts, and swimming pool
5 Bed, 3 Bath, 6 Car
It’s more than a home, it’s a community
The Grange retirement village is located in the heart of Deakin, just 300m from the shops and close to medical facilities. Our village offers you independent living in your own private home without the hassle of the building maintenance, and staff onsite 24hours a day for peace of mind in emergencies.
Join the vibrant and welcoming community where you can live life your way. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the private dining room. Take part in the many social activities or interest groups in the village. Keep fit at one of the regular exercise classes, the indoor pool or the many walking tracks nearby including Red Hill. Indulge your passion for culture at the many museums and galleries close by.
This newly renovated 2 bedroom home comes with:
• Modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances including dishwasher
• Large open plan lounge and dining opening onto the balcony
• Large master bedroom and ensuite
• Built in robes
• Internal laundry with dryer
• Reverse cycle air conditioning
• Internal access lift to secure car park
• Staff on-site at all times in case of an emergency
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)
Though the solar change activates your fire sign energy, you channel the power subtly, with an unassuming strength, but somehow the low-key approach attracts even more attention. You’ll be asked to lead, join or partake in fun perks. It’s a week of rising.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)
Guided by heart and grounded fairness, you’ll ask for what you’re worth this week. It’s about baseline respect, the way you’re heard, included. You’ll approach it all without edge or apology – just a steady, clear sense of value that makes boundary-setting feel like second nature.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)
BRAIN BUSTERS
1 What is the proper name for the ‘&’ symbol, aka the ‘and’ sign?
2 The Tocantins is one of the largest clearwater rivers on which continent?
3 The Japanese word, juu, represents which number?
4 Who created the character, Holly Gibney, the main character in a bestselling 2023 novel?
5 Poutchine au sac is a bag pudding most commonly eaten in which country?
You shine this week in the harder moments – when worlds don’t align and everyone seems to want something different from what’s being offered to them. You’re the reason bridges still get built. Humour, listening and one totally unexpected comment from you will unlock the magic.
CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)
Your stoicism has a softness to it – a kindness that doesn’t need to name every flaw to be honest. This week, you’ll witness a secret or mistake, and your decision to let it pass will mean the world to someone. Your every gracious act helps you too. You contribute to softness that you will also revel in.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)
You feel like your wildest, most magnetic self. You’re drawn to someone who matches your energy and lets you run free, not losing sight of you. You’re both chasing something spontaneous. This week ends with laughter in your lungs, wind in your hair and a story you can’t wait to tell.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)
You’ve known the joy of loyalty that stretches past convenience. Someone else will experience it from you – that unshakable, rare energy that says, “I’m here”. No announcement, no ceremony. Showing up like this is what you’re made of – and that certainty will carry into everything else you do.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)
Just when you’ve started to settle into the expected rhythm something shifts. There’s an open window this week – a moment where you can say what you really want. Take it. You’ve earned the right to desire, to declare, to be bold. Your wish won’t be seen as pushy. It will be seen as visionary.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)
You’ve known the haunting thought that some mysterious “other” could step into your life and make it work better. That ghost lives in the hallways of all extraordinary people. But there is no “someone else” with your way of pulling wild meaning out of chaos.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)
A delay can be a gift. A detour can be the best thing that happens in the journey. A wind-up that leads to nothing can still be sweet. The mystery ending has its purpose and place as well. The lesson of the week is one of releasing the expectation and accepting whatever form the action takes.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)
Just like you can’t snap your fingers and have a potato appear in your garden, you can’t instantly create happiness, motivation, love or peace just because you want to feel them. But you can create a supportive environment so that the emotions you want will naturally emerge.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)
What you praise, you reinforce.
If you only reward surface-level cues, you train your attention to chase spectacle instead of substance. Use your insight to make things better, not just more efficient or controlled. That’s how perception becomes kindness that transforms the world.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)
You bring intelligence and grace to interactions. Enjoy yourself in the process. What you wear will matter, and it’s time to invest in pieces that support your comfort and project the image that helps you to the goal. You’re a contributor just by being there. You make someone’s day just by turning up.
DIFFICULTY RATING
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Sometimes in today’s modern world we can forget the beauty in artisanal craftsmanship. Get in touch to start your dream project today. ✓ Re-Upholstery & Restorations
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✓ Bedheads and Wall Upholstery Call or email us today!
0422 073 665 / 6181 3511 toni@twinstitchupholstery.com.au
Ctrl + Alt + Delight: Retro computer expo reboots the past
From the hulking behemoths of the HAL and IBM era that filled entire rooms to today’s quantum machines that slip into other dimensions to discover the riddle of life, the universe and everything, computers have changed enormously.
Visitors to the Canberra Vintage Computer Exhibition at Daramalan College this Saturday can discover — or rediscover — retro machines from the 1960s to the early 2000s. They can learn how computers worked in di erent time periods and about the nature of evolving technology; and come away with a renewed enthusiasm for old things, organiser James McNeill says.
“It’s a fun event. It’s going to have a lot of people that are excited about technology, who spend a long time restoring and experimenting with this old hardware… It’s a great way of learning from people who are there solely for the pleasure of passing on knowledge.”
The iconic machines at the exhibition include Cold War-era university computers and mainframes that once ran banks and major institutions — but the spotlight is on the Amiga PC, which turns 40 this year.
Mr McNeill’s own favourite is his SGI Octane from 1997, a high-end graphics workstation that Pixar used to make Toy Story 2. In its day, it cost $100,000; Mr McNeill bought his for $350.
There will be classic games, interactive exhibits, presentations, panel sessions, and music composition demos.
The Canberra Vintage Computer Exhibition, Daramalan College, Dickson, Saturday 19 July, 10am to 3pm. Admission free. For more information, visit: visitcanberra.com.au/events - Nicholas Fuller
