18 June 2026

Move in now, to move ahead.

Studio, 1, 2 and 3 bed apartments in Lyneham from $460,000.

Get a head start with a fully completed apartment in Canberra’s exclusive inner north.

Secure with a $1,000 deposit

First Home Buyer concessions available

Spacious apartments with heaps of storage

Gymnasium / Resident’s Lounge / Rooftop

Garden

Visit Our Display Apartment

G17, 327 Northbourne Avenue, Lyneham (park on De Burgh Street)

Thursday – Saturday, 11am – 1pm

Contact

Natasha Johnson 0434 104 556

Nick Babic 0401 284 413

Find Out More deburgh-nv.com.au

CLOSE TO THE CITY, EVEN CLOSER TO NATURE

Denman Peninsula is an inspired collection of only 35 impressively spacious three and four bedroom townhouse residences on an unparalleled site fronting the Molonglo River corridor and heritage trail.

Open now, visit our fully furnished Display Townhouse, and discover the unique location at this exclusive development. Agents will be available to discuss the highly unique design-by- you features and options.

• Oversized, executive residences ranging from 182m2 to 235m2 of living space offering multiple living options

• Luxurious customised interior with multiple choices for finishes and fittings

• Bathrooms and ensuites with Villeroy & Boch fittings, complemented by under-tile heating

• Reverse cycle ducted heating and cooling

• 5KW rooftop solar system to each residence

• Kitchen with Smeg appliances, stone benchtops and opulent butler’s pantries

• Up to 3.5 metre ceilings in many living areas

• Landscaped courtyard and gardens, many with access to the heritage trail

• Dual lock-up garaging with remote access and provisioning for EV Charging

• High energy rating of minimum 6.1 EER

Stella Young Way

Denman Prospect

Thu & Fri 2.00pm — 4.00pm Sat & Sun 11.00am — 3.00pm

Keenan Veraar — 0402 914 037

denmanpeninsula.com.au

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3/21 Albany St, Fyshwick ACT 2609

Sunny Homes showcases timeless European-inspired design in Taylor.

The European-inspired home turning heads inTaylor

In a world where design trends seem to change by the year, there is something reassuring about a home that is built to stand the test of time.

As more homeowners look beyond what’s fashionable today and focus on styles that will feel just as elegant decades from now, local award-winning builder Sunny Homes is embracing a design philosophy centred on timelessness. Its French Provincial display home in Taylor showcases how classic Europeaninspired architecture can be thoughtfully adapted for modern Canberra living.

Inspired by the grand country estates of rural France, French Provincial design has endured for centuries because it combines elegant architectural details with practicality.

Sunny Homes’ Taylor display home reinterprets those classic principles for a Canberra lifestyle, blending European-inspired character with the functionality modern families expect.

For Sunny Homes, the project represents more than simply building another display home. It reflects the philosophy that has helped establish the local family-owned company as

one of Canberra’s most recognised and awarded residential builders.

Led by director Sunny Malhotra, Sunny Homes has built more than 300 homes across Canberra and the surrounding region, earning a reputation for quality craftsmanship, personalised service and homes tailored to the individual needs of each client.

The Taylor display home was designed to demonstrate what is possible when timeless architectural inspiration is paired with modern building expertise.

From the moment visitors arrive, the home’s street presence is unmistakable.

A crisp white façade, elegant balcony, statement entry and carefully considered detailing create a sense of grandeur without feeling overwhelming. Inspired by the stately homes of the French countryside, the design embraces proportion, balance and symmetry, key elements that have defined French Provincial architecture for centuries.

Yet despite its impressive appearance, the home remains warm and welcoming.

Step through the front door and the home’s

most striking feature immediately comes into view. A sweeping curved staircase anchors the interior, creating a memorable first impression.

Natural light plays a significant role in enhancing the feeling of elegance.

Large windows and carefully positioned living spaces allow sunlight to filter through the home, highlighting the soft colour palette and creating a bright, open atmosphere. The interiors are intentionally restrained, using neutral tones, warm textures and premium finishes to create a timeless aesthetic that won’t date with changing trends.

Designer flooring selections add warmth and character, while subtle luxury touches throughout the home elevate everyday living.

At the heart of the residence sits a spacious entertainer’s kitchen that brings together style and functionality. Thoughtfully planned and highly practical, the kitchen reflects the way modern families live, providing a central gathering space for everything from busy weekday mornings to weekend entertaining.

The adjoining living and dining areas continue that theme, offering generous spaces that

encourage connection while maintaining a sense of comfort and intimacy.

A strong indoor-outdoor connection further enhances the home’s appeal. Living spaces flow to outdoor entertaining areas, creating additional room for families to relax, entertain guests and enjoy Canberra’s changing seasons.

While the home draws inspiration from traditional European architecture, every aspect of the design has been carefully considered to suit contemporary Australian living.

It is a balance that Sunny Homes believes is increasingly important.

Many buyers are searching for homes that offer a sense of permanence and character while still delivering features required for modern lifestyles. Rather than following short-term trends, they are seeking homes that will continue to feel relevant well into the future.

The Taylor display home speaks directly to that audience.

It is particularly suited to families wanting additional space, upsizers looking for a premium home with street presence, and buyers who appreciate classic architecture but don’t want to

compromise on comfort or convenience.

The home also provides inspiration for those planning a custom build.

One of Sunny Homes’ defining strengths has been its focus on creating homes tailored to individual clients rather than taking a one-sizefits-all approach. The local family-owned builder specialises in custom-designed residences, working closely with homeowners to create spaces that reflect their lifestyle, personality and long-term needs.

The Taylor display home is a reflection of that philosophy. While inspired by classic European architecture, it has been designed with modern Australian families firmly in mind, balancing timeless style with everyday practicality.

Elegant yet welcoming, it demonstrates how

traditional design principles can be reimagined for contemporary Canberra living. In an era where trends come and go, the home serves as a reminder that great design is not about following fashion, but creating spaces that remain beautiful, functional and relevant for years to come.

For those looking to build a home that combines classic character with modern comfort, Sunny Homes’ display home at 75 Robin Boyd Crescent, Taylor offers a compelling vision of what timeless living can look like.

Bottoms up for winter solstice

Sunrise may be a bit brighter this Sunday because of the reflective light off so many bare bums that never see the light of day, plunging into Lake Burley Griffin for the Winter Solstice Nude Charity Swim.

If you’re going to wear anything, wear sunglasses.

Getting your kit off has never been more serious – this skinny dip brings people together in support of mental health and raises vital funds for Lifeline Canberra’s crisis support services.

Every week, we lose a Canberran to suicide.

Hundreds of Canberrans now flock to this annual event (420+ last year, raising a record $94,024) and this year – the 10th year – the target is $110,000.

Helping to reach the target is Braddon resident and public servant Marcia Keegan, who’s done the nude dip three times.

Having already braved skydiving, bungee jumping and camel racing, Marcia reckons the nude winter solstice dip is a breeze.

“Actually this is pretty chill – literally – it’s

great fun,” she said. “I’m fairly comfortable.”

Marcia has refined her water entry technique over the years.

“Inching your way in is not the way to do it,” she said. “You’ve just got to run in. As much as you that you can get under the water, the easier it is. If you’re in the water up to your neck, then it’s okay.”

Apparently, the hardest part is submerging everything that’s south of the belly button. Last year, Marcia managed to stay in the 11-degree water for about five minutes and she always takes the plunge with friends.

Ten years ago, in 2016, a brave man by the name of Ian Lindeman took his closest friends for a nude dip in Lake Burley Griffin for “something a bit different”, as well as supporting a good cause. The novelty’s caught on.

So at precisely 7:12am this Sunday at Yarralumla Beach, all bets (and clothes) are off because nudity laws do not apply (Lifeline Canberra has a licence to avoid the maximum penalty for indecent exposure, which is one-year

imprisonment and a $3,200 fine).

All funds raised go to Lifeline Canberra 24/7support service 13 11 14 and to date, the swim has raised more than $369,000.

To register for the Winter Solstice Nude Charity Swim on Sunday 21 June, visit: wintersolsticeswim.com

The 10th annual Winter Solstice Nude Charity Swim is this Sunday.

Photo: Lifeline Canberra

Superb effort by Socceroos young guns

Now, I was never any good at football (soccer), too clumsy, like my efforts at AFL. I played both codes like the second-row forward I was.

As a former very active patron of the Belconnen Blue Devils in my days as a member for Ginninderra (I’d go with my late son Joe, then 10 and 11, on the team bus to the away games in Sydney and always donate a slab of beer to the first grade if they won). I’d also donate a slab of beer plus six cans of Coke (for the under-18 players)

to the under-20s. Funnily enough, the under-20s would nearly always win. So, as a result, I know something about the modern game.

As a proud Aussie, I was delighted with our boys’ brilliant performance against Turkey. Several things stood out for me.

1. The commitment was total.

2. The coach and selectors’ deliberate policy of choosing 10 young debutants paid off in spades. The Turks may have had 70% of the possession, but we dictated play when it mattered most.

3. The fitness of the team enabled the defenders to get back and face the Turkish players whenever Turkey looked threatening.

4. The speed of some of our young guns was truly amazing. Speed counts in soccer just as it does in the other three football codes.

5. The defence generally was

incredible, and young goalie Patrick Peach, a young bloke from the Central Coast club, played a blinder, saving eight shots at goal.

The speed and skill of our first goal scorer, 20-year-old Nestory Irankunda, born in a Tanzanian refugee camp, was incredible, and his inspirational goal put us on the path to a welldeserved victory. The Turkish team was valued at $600 million. Before the match, our boys were about $100 million, not so now.

Soccer has been, for decades, the biggest junior football code numbers-wise by a country mile, but it has never really caught on with the general public to the extent that the NRL and AFL have. It has been steadily gaining in popularity, and even if we don’t win another game, this will have been a successful World Cup, and our team will have cemented themselves in the

pantheon of legendary Australian sporting teams. I’m confident, however, we will win another game, and it would be great if we advanced to the top eight. Good luck for the rest of the World Cup!

The deliberate selective development of Australian teams, both men and women, over the last 20 years, especially our national youth teams as pathways to the Socceroos and Jillaroos, is now paying big dividends. My old mates, the late great Johnny Warren (who did so much for soccer in Australia), Canberra soccer legend and father of the only Canberra soccer team to be in a national competition, the Canberra Cosmos, the late Steve Doszpot MLA, and Canberra/Australian futsal legend Jimmy Roberts, would be over the moon as well. Australian soccer has truly come of age.

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ACT Budget puts housing, health and frontline services first

by NICHOLAS FULLER

The ACT Government has put housing, health, and frontline services at the centre of its 2026–27 Budget, while opposition and crossbench politicians and peak bodies have warned that Canberra’s cost-of-living, housing, and service pressures remain acute.

Treasurer Chris Steel MLA said the ACT’s economy remains resilient, with 29 years of continuous growth, low unemployment, and inflation below the national average. But he said the Middle East war had increased costs and led to inflation and higher interest rates.

The Budget remains in deficit, with a $323.4 million shortfall forecast for 2026–27. The government expects the fiscal position to improve over the forward estimates to a surplus of $244.2 million by 2028-29.

“The Government is committed to sound fiscal management while ensuring we deliver the critical

supports that the community needs,” Mr Steel said.

The government says the budget delivers a $178.3 million improvement in the Headline Net Operating Balance from the estimated 2025-26 outcome, and a cash operating surplus from 2026-27.

To address cost-of-living pressures, the Budget provides additional funding for food relief; school expenses; tertiary student public transport concessions; reducing home energy costs; and housing crisis support, Mr Steel said.

The removal of the health levy means the average rates bill will increase by no more than 5 per cent, and rates bills will reduce in some suburbs.

The largest shares of expenditure are health (32 per cent, or $3 billion) and education (22 per cent, or $2.1 billion).

Health investment includes $1.3 billion over seven years for the new Northside Hospital, bringing the total commitment to almost $1.5 billion over a decade; $23.4 million for an Acute Palliative Care Unit; $21.7 million for medical equipment; and $14.1 million to

LAUNCH INTO LEARNING FOR MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES

UnitingCare Kippax in partnership with The Canberra Institute of Technology (RTO Code: 0101), Navitas Futures, Multicultural Hub Canberra, Capital Local Jobs Program, Ginninderry Conservation Trust and Th Umbrella Collective are delivering an innovative tr aining program specifically designed to help migran and asylum seekers prepare for VET pathways.

Targeting migrants and refugees living across the C anberra region who are 17 years of age or older. Th is program f ocusses on practical workshops covering workplace culture, Eng lish language, digital literacy, and study skills, participants will build confidence, study r eadiness, and community connections in an inclusive environment.

Commencing Wednesday 5 August this 15-week program will run 2 days a week (Thurs & Fri, 11 hours per week) and will be a combination of theory, hands on learning, Canberra site tours and on-country learn ing.

This program is supported by Ensuring Access to Fou ndation Skills Training, a joint initiative between the Commonwealth and ACT Government.

improve wellbeing and career development for junior medical officers. Overall, the Budget includes more than $910 million over four years in health initiatives.

Housing is the centrepiece of the budget. Mr Steel described it as “the most significant investment since self-government to supply more homes for Canberrans”. The government has committed to 30,000 more homes and 13,200 public housing dwellings by 2030.

The Budget includes $770 million in new and expanded housing initiatives, including $367.9 million for a Public Housing Pipeline and $183.4 million to repair and maintain public housing. It eliminates stamp duty for first-home buyers, and removes it from some unit-titled “missing middle” properties. It also funds a Canberra House Pattern Book of pre-approved missing middle home designs, and remits half the lease variation charge for eligible missing-middle developments.

“In times of economic uncertainty, nothing is more important than having stable and secure housing,” Mr Steel said.

The Budget provides $182.6 million over four years for community support, safety, and inclusion, including $44.2 million for frontline domestic, family and sexual violence services; $16.9 million for housing

[continued on page 20]

Information Session

It is mandatory that all individuals seeking to be on the program attend this session. This is a two-part session broken into an:

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and homelessness services; and $16.7 million for the community legal assistance sector.

Mr Steel said the community sector played an important role in supporting vulnerable Canberrans, and the government recognised the pressures facing “these vital partners”.

The Budget also provides $343.1 million for transport, city services, environment and climate; $253 million for education and skills; $198.3 million for justice, police, and emergency services; and $143.5 million for economic development, tourism, arts and sports.

The Government said no capital works projects have been cut, but some projects that have not yet started will be staged or deferred to focus resources on works underway. These include the Kingston Arts Precinct; health, emergency services and sports facilities in North Gungahlin; and later stages of the Monaro Highway Upgrade.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the Budget was “about the future of Canberra, and making sure more people can be part of it”.

“Labor has a clear plan to grow our city, strengthen our economy, and invest in the services Canberrans rely on,” Mr Barr said.

Canberra Liberals leader Mark Parton MLA

condemned the Budget, saying it failed to address cost-of-living pressures and burdened Canberrans with record levels of debt after years of “financial mismanagement, broken promises, and misplaced priorities”.

“Instead of providing relief and restoring confidence, this Government continues to spend beyond its means and pass the bill on to taxpayers,” Mr Parton said.

He warned that ACT Government borrowings were forecast to reach $23.7 billion by 2029-30, with interest costs exceeding $2.3 million a day.

ACT Greens leader Jo Clay said Greens negotiations had secured measures including the return of rent relief, expanded Sustainable Household Scheme loans, and more stable community sector funding. But she said Labor still lacked ambition on housing and transport.

Independent MLA Thomas Emerson welcomed funding for housing, community services, and child safety, but was concerned by the ACT’s ongoing fiscal challenges.

“We need to start spending smarter,” Mr Emerson said. “We’ve got to stop burning money on reports, plans and strategies that never get implemented.”

He also said the government must invest more in

preventative health and justice services.

Community sector peak body ACTCOSS said the government had shown national leadership in helping people deal with financial pressures. However, ACTCOSS said more was needed for people with disability, carers, and Aboriginal CommunityControlled Organisations.

ACT Shelter received a four-year funding reprieve. CEO Corinne Dobson said the housing budget was the ACT’s most substantive in years, but warned the package neither matched the scale of the crisis nor reversed the long-term decline in social housing.

The Canberra Business Chamber warned that many businesses would face substantially higher tax bills next year.

The AMA ACT welcomed investment in public hospitals, but president Dr Betty Ge said the real test would be whether waiting times for emergency departments, specialists, and surgery were shorter.

Master Builders ACT welcomed housing measures, but said the Budget missed the chance to address construction workforce shortages and red tape.

ACT Parents welcomed education funding, but said genuine reform would require sustained investment and stronger system-wide support.

Under a broken roof: Kingston traders need support

by BERNIE RYAN

In May 2023, after 27 years in the insurance industry, Pam Howarth signed a five-year lease as the new owner of Queenies Restaurant in Giles Street, Kingston.

She was, however, unaware that the popular venue was harbouring a threat in the very roof above her head.

A threat that would ultimately unleash financial and reputational havoc on her thriving business over the last 12 months, and one for which there seems to be neither an explanation nor an imminent remedy, and is completely out of her control.

Queenies has been a labour of love for Ms Howarth.

Her efforts have elevated the charming Kingston venue to Canberra’s premier dining

choice for coeliacs and the gluten-intolerant who are tired of fruit salad and risotto.

“It’s a great restaurant and offers great food, a lovely atmosphere and a nice place for people to take their friends or family,” says Ms Howarth.

Queenies’ patrons are offered the oldfashioned hospitality which turns walk-in guests into regulars. However, whilst Queenies was endearing herself further to Canberrans, the threat in her grand old roof had other plans.

On 4 April 2025, Ms Howarth was invited to a meeting convened by Ray White Commercial, on behalf of the venue’s landlords Myuna Pty Ltd, where Ms Howarth and her five largely hospitality neighbours were served some not-sohospitable news: substantial work to their joint roof area was required.

This would require the extended closure of their businesses, soon.

At that time, Queenies, Portia’s Place, Sushi

Go, Scoop Wholefoods, newest tenant Tintino, and 45 90 Framing & Gallery would be affected.

Queenies owner, Pam Howarth, is committed to her patrons despite ongoing uncertainty

Photo Bernie Ryan [continued on page 24]

Arthur Boyd, Manufactura de Tapeçarias de Portalegre (tapestry workshop), Lurdes Serra (weaving drawer), The Wolf of Gubbio with St Francis in a bent tree (detail), 1974, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, purchased 1975, Arthur Boyd’s works reproduced with the permission of Bundanon Trust

“We were advised that the work was related to the faulty installation of roof sheeting when the roof was repaired following the severe hailstorms of 2020,” says Ms Howarth.

“When I signed my lease in 2023, however, there was no mention of this issue.”

Long-term tenant and owner of 45 90 Framing & Gallery, Steph Dent, says that during the meeting, they were advised there would be attempts to minimise the disruption to their businesses.

“We were told that the work would be done in stages to minimise the disruption to each of us,” she said.

Ms Howarth reports that the meeting was followed by an email later that month, advising a proposed business closure for all tenants of approximately 11 weeks, and a notice period of eight weeks.

Ms Howarth reports ongoing correspondence with the managing agent and consultant, during which she repeatedly sought clarification as to whether a development application had been lodged with the Territory Planning Authority.

“I was asking how work can occur if there is no development application,” says Ms Howarth.

“To this day, I don’t know if that has occurred.”

A public search of development applications, and contact with the Territory Planning Authority, indicates that no development application has been lodged to date.

Not all repair work, however, requires one.

Ms Howarth reports further updates weren’t provided until late June, when “I was told that work would likely commence in January 2026,” she says.

Ms Howarth started planning to mitigate expected losses and rented another premises in Giles Street, to transfer part of her operation.

I knew that Queenies could not survive an extended closure,” she says.

Early in November 2025, Ms Howarth reports receiving notification that work was again expected to commence in January 2026, but that they were still waiting on ‘building approval’.

“It makes it very difficult to take bookings, and manage staffing, when you have an extended closure literally hanging over your head,” she says.

On 19 March 2026, Ms Howarth and Ms Dent reported receiving notice that works would commence on 13 May 2026, which would

require a total shutdown of ten weeks.

“I’m a small business, and I don’t have enough money to cover this”, Ms Dent said at the time.

Both Ms Howarth and Ms Dent say they were offered rent abatement for the ‘entire period of the shutdown’, but no compensation for other losses, including loss of revenue and trained staff.

Ms Howarth was at this stage paying rent on two premises, let valued staff go, cancelled bookings and liquidated personal assets to fit out her second venue, Eve by Queenies.

Ms Dent stopped taking in clients.

Then, in an unexpected twist, an email arrived a little after 5pm on Friday 24 April, advising that works were now paused.

No further advice has been given on when repairs will be done.

The landlord’s managing agent, Ray White Commercial Canberra, was contacted for comment and responded, “We are working with the people affected and do not intend to make any public comment.”

For more on this story, please see Canberra Daily online.

Big Splash to be put up for sale as pool reopening plans continue

The Big Splash site in Macquarie will soon be put on the market, with owners confirming the water slides and existing buildings will remain in place as efforts continue to reopen the main pool later this year.

In an update issued by Purdon on behalf of the first mortgagees, it was confirmed that work is focused on making the main pool operational by 1 November 2026.

“The slides and existing buildings will not be demolished,” the update states.

Temporary ticketing, change room and food service facilities will be installed to support the reopening, while a new internal fence will separate the main pool from other areas of the site.

The mortgagees also confirmed the property will be marketed for sale “as is” and that there are “no redevelopment plans associated with the

site or its sale”.

Importantly, work towards reopening the facility will continue regardless of the sale process, with existing lease obligations applying to any future purchaser.

Community campaign group Save Big Splash welcomed the announcement, describing it as a significant step forward.

“This is the news we have been fighting for,” spokesperson Amelia Tattam said.

“The slides are staying and the lease goes with the site. And now the right operator has the chance to step in and give this place the future it deserves.”

Ms Tattam said the group would continue advocating for a buyer capable of restoring the full facility, including the slides.

“We are not done,” she said. “We will never

be done until those slides are running again.”

The group has also called on the ACT Government to ensure the sale process remains transparent and that any future owner is held to the full intent of the Crown lease conditions.

A timeline for the sale process has not yet been released, although interested parties have been encouraged to engage once further information becomes available.

A recent protest saw around 200 Canberrans form a human circle around Big Splash in an attempt to save the water park.

Photo Georgia Curry

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The hoedown is here

by GEORGIA CURRY

Canberra seems to be getting ‘country-fied’ despite our cityslicker façade, with line-dancers corralling in large numbers around our capital.

Forget high-heels and club-wear, Canberrans are opting for cowboy boots and akubras and choosing linedancing over DJ sets, with places like The Peacemaker Saloon in Braddon having to add extra line-dancing nights due to sell-out crowds.

Other Canberra venues jumping on the bandwagon include Mooseheads, ChiChiz Bar, Highball Express and Rose Cottage Inn.

Line-dancing instructor Ryley Jackson is such a fan that she has travelled to the United States solely to partake in line-dancing.

“I did a month in America last year

and my goal was to dance as much as I could when I was there,” she said. “I went line-dancing in Fort Worth Texas, Panama City Beach, Florida and Las Vegas.”

Ryley, 25, teaches line-dancing on a Thursday night at The Peacemaker Saloon, where most of participants are also in their 20s and predominantly uni students.

“It seems like it’s really exploded in the last year or so, it’s definitely huge,” she said. “It’s been big in America for a while, but within Australia it seems to be getting more and more interest. I hope it continues to grow because I love doing it.”

Ryley’s mantra on her socials is “line-dancing my way through life” and she posts hundreds of reels on choreography.

“The second I start doing it, I am just so overwhelmed and happy, I don’t

think anything makes me as happy as line dancing does, which was a shock when I worked that out for myself,” she said.

“It’s very social, no one’s judging, you have a little bit of a boogie and it’s quite rewarding to feel like you’re successful at it, when you actually finally get the steps right. Sometimes it

takes you the whole song to figure out the steps and when you finally get it, you’ve just got to do it again.”

National Capital Bootscooters classes can be found at nationalcapitalbootscooters.com and you can follow Ryley on Instagram (@ ryleysrodeo).

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Vinnies Winter Appeal 2026 launches to support Canberrans facing housing instability and rising cost pressures

As winter approaches, St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/ Goulburn is calling on the community to support the 2026 Vinnies Winter Appeal, with new data showing more Australians are being forced to cut back on essentials just to keep a roof over their heads.

More than half of Australians (55%) report reducing spending on basics such as food, medication and bills to afford housing, while nearly one in three say they do not have enough savings to cover an emergency. (Source: YouGov survey commissioned by St Vincent de Paul Society, March 2026)

Locally, these pressures are being felt across

the ACT and surrounding regions, with more individuals and families turning to Vinnies for support to stay housed, warm and connected through the winter months.

Lucy Hohnen, CEO of St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn, said the figures reflect what frontline teams are seeing every day.

“Winter is already one of the toughest times of year for the people we support who are facing hardship, but this year we’re seeing more households than ever living week-to-week with no buffer,” Lucy said.

“It only takes one unexpected event, a job loss, illness or relationship breakdown for someone to go from coping to crisis. That’s

where Vinnies steps in.”

In just 12 months, from April 2025 to April 2026, our Emergency Relief Helpline received more than 19,000 calls for help (approx. 70 every day).

For Claire*, a Canberra mum, that moment came after experiencing domestic violence and being unable to secure stable housing. She and her young son spent two years living in a caravan while navigating rising costs and trying to rebuild their lives.

“I just wanted somewhere safe for my son to grow up,” she said.

With support from Vinnies, Claire accessed wraparound assistance, including case management, emergency relief and pathways to longer-term housing. Today, she and her son have moved into a stable home, giving them the safety and foundation to move forward.

This winter, Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn is aiming to raise over $450,0000 to support vulnerable people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness, poverty and ongoing cost-ofliving pressures across the ACT & surrounding regions.

Funds raised will provide practical, immediate support, including food, clothing, assistance with energy bills and access to longer-term services that help prevent crisis and build stability.

“Every donation helps people find relief, dignity and hope during one of the hardest times of the year,” Lucy continued.

“With demand continuing to grow, community support is critical to ensure we can continue to be there for the people who need us most.”

With the end of financial year approaching, now is the time to act. Donations of $2 or more made before 30 June are tax-deductible, meaning you can support families like Claire’s while also receiving a benefit at tax time.

Donations to the Vinnies Winter Appeal can be made at vinnies.org.au/winter-appeal, by calling 13 18 12, or in-store at Vinnies Canberra/ Goulburn Shops.

*Name and images changed to protect privacy.

have you heard?

GIVIT donation of the week: Queen mattress

GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation that provides support for Canberra women who are impacted by domestic violence and homelessness. They are currently seeking support for a woman living with disability and a history of experiencing domestic violence. This woman lives independently and tries to keep a positive attitude despite some very painful life experiences. She sustained a brain injury when she was a baby, perpetrated by her biological father. She has also experienced domestic violence from past partners. She is now in the process of moving to another location for safety reasons. She has been sleeping on a blow-up camping mattress, so GIVIT is requesting the donation of a queen size mattress. Your donation will provide comfort and restore a sense of dignity as she moves on with her life. Generous Canberrans can donate and deliver a high-quality, as-new mattress or fund the purchase of this item. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase what’s needed. To help please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’sneeded, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘mattress - queen’ and Suburb: ‘Macgregor, 2615’.

Friends ANBG Thursday Talks

Friends of the Australian National Botanic Gardens will host a Thursday Talk on 25 June at the ANBG Theatrette, opposite the ANBG Visitor Centre, 12:30–1:30pm. Dr Fiona Fraser, Threatened Species Commissioner, will discuss recent developments in the implementation of the Threatened Species Action Plan 2022–32 and community awareness initiatives. Bookings: trybooking.com/DKZGD. Gold coin, note and EFTPOS donations support Friends projects at the ANBG.

community noticeboard

email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field

Warm Trees returns to the Arboretum

The Friends of the National Arboretum Canberra will once again present Warm Trees as part of Winter in the Woods. This year’s theme, “Getting to Know Your Arboretum”, celebrates the forests, gardens and the birds, animals and insects that call the Arboretum home. Visitors can enjoy trees wrapped in vibrant handcrafted scarves, along with a beautifully decorated Visitor Centre entrance inspired by the Arboretum’s natural beauty. The installation will be on display daily from 26 June to 9 August. For the full Winter in the Woods program. Visit: bit.ly/WinterInTheWoods2026

Lions Community Bookshop seeks donations

The Lions Community Bookshop in Queanbeyan is seeking donations of pre-loved books, jigsaw puzzles, board games, CDs and DVDs in good condition. Funds raised through sales are returned to the community, supporting families in need, vulnerable children and young people, and people experiencing homelessness. The bookshop also serves as a community hub, promoting wellbeing and social connection. Located in the Cottage in Queanbeyan Park, the bookshop is open 10am–4pm, Tuesday to Saturday. To check what donations can be accepted or arrange assistance with deliveries, call 0461 365 831. For more information, visit the Lions of Queanbeyan Facebook page.

The power of the village: Goodwin raises historic amount to outpace dementia

Leading seniors living and aged care provider Goodwin Aged Care Services has marked a record-breaking conclusion to its recent advocacy efforts, presenting a historic milestone donation to Dementia Australia at the inaugural Goodwin Giving Awards last week.

On Tuesday 9 June, Goodwin Chief Executive Officer Stephen Holmes officially presented a final donation of $147,041 to Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan.

The milestone was achieved through an extensive campaign that brought together 328 registered Team Goodwin participants, comprising residents, clients, staff, families, schools, and corporate partners who turned the shores of Lake Burley Griffin into a vibrant sea of purple during the Canberra-leg of Dementia Australia’s Memory Walk & Jog event in February.

In his address, Mr Holmes highlighted why this cause remains at the absolute forefront of the organisation’s priorities.

social scene

“Goodwin’s vision is that every person should have the opportunity to stay productive in their community,” he said. “Dementia can be an incredibly lonely and isolating disease, not just for the individual diagnosed, but for the families and carers standing beside them. That is why our support for the work of Dementia Australia is important to us, so they can assist and support individuals living with dementia and their families.”

The record-breaking funds will go towards helping Dementia Australia provide much-needed support and services for Australians living with dementia, their families and carers.

Currently, dementia stands as the leading cause of death in Australia, with over 6,000 individuals navigating the diagnosis in the ACT alone.

Right now, 446,500 Australians are living with dementia. Without significant intervention, more than one million Australians are expected to be living with

this disease by 2065.

The ceremony culminated in the presentation of the 2026 Goodwin Giving Awards trophies to the Team Goodwin local champions:

• Top Fundraising Team: Team Goodwin Monash. Their effort was heavily propelled by ck architecture, who took out the Top Corporate Sponsor award

• Top Individual Fundraiser: Teddy Morados, Director of Nursing at Goodwin House Ainslie

• Top Individual Team: The Crace Outpacers

• Most Valuable Player (MVP): Canberra local legend

Peter Barclay AO

• Top Dog Award: Zoe the Dog, a retired Goodwin Support Dog

• Intergenerational Champions: Emmaus Christian School was named Top School and seven-year-old Lia Casao from Curtin Primary School, whose mother Gail is a dedicated Goodwin Carer was awarded Top School Champion.

Members of the Canberra Classic Holden Club at the exhibition launch. Tina Brandt, Executive Director of Access and Public Engagement, National Archives; Richard Ferlazzo, Former Holden Design Director; Simon Froude, Director-General, National Archives; Gill Savage, Deputy Director-General, National Archives; and Danniella McGowen, Assistant Director-General of Access and Public Engagement, National Archives.

Guests viewing a Holden 48 215 (FX), the oldest registered Holden in the ACT, on display as part of the exhibition.

Guests viewing the exhibition. Tony Pryce with Richard Ferlazzo, former Holden Design Director, at the exhibition launch.

Last week, National Archives of Australia celebrated the opening of Rear vision: the Holden exhibition. Open daily with free entry, the exhibition runs until 11 October 2026. Photographs by Adriana Cleaver

Stephen Holmes, Lia Casao, Professor Tanya Buchanan and Beck Kiting.

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)

Even with basic needs covered, somehow other needs feel more essential to survival. For instance, relationships affect your appetite and can feel more important than food. And there are quests you’re willing to pursue through discomfort. This week, you’ll forge forward for thrills and experience.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)

Maybe you’re not in a social mood, but almost all you need to move forward involves making connections. The more you engage with people, the easier it becomes. The more people you meet and get to know, the better and more interesting your opportunities will be.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)

BRAIN BUSTERS

1 Who became Governor-General of Australia in July 2024?

2 Which country won the men’s football gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics?

3 Guinea-Bissau has a coastline on which ocean?

4 What is the name of Asher Keddie’s character in the TV series, Offspring?

5 In relation to the day known as VE day in Europe, what does VE stand for?

SOLUTIONS

Strong feelings can disrupt plans or make situations messy. But they also make life richer and more vivid. Your emotional intensity is part of what makes you feel deeply connected to people. This week, your experiences and creativity will be lit with the fire of your passion.

CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)

You give praise naturally to others: ‘I always believed in you’; ‘You’re extraordinary’. You’re not surprised when your people hit their stride, and because you’re so generous, it genuinely thrills you to see them succeed. You’ll get that thrill, and you’ll give it to others as they watch your wins.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)

People admire your endurance. You’d rather they cherish you in other ways. Tenderness would be nice. To be resilient, adaptable, capable and game – those things feel very normal to you. But you don’t realise how rare it is to have all those qualities braided into one lovely package. Celebrate!

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)

You have been thinking about someone in a way that doesn’t totally match reality. But that’s part of the fun, the wondering and guessing. You’re getting to know this person like a scientist studying something fascinating. You imagine qualities and then test to see if they are really there.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)

Negativity bias is just part of being human. So, when you have a lot of good going on and all you can see is the ‘fly in the ointment’, know that it’s normal to weigh negativity with more significance and then refuse the habit. Gratitude must be cultivated, then you’re part of human evolution.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)

Everything you say, choose and give will influence other events this week, often in ways you don’t immediately see. The emotional spirit behind your actions is important, not just the action itself. Generous deeds will inspire warmth, connection and goodwill beyond the original moment.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)

The one who plants the tree won’t get the shade. You’ve enjoyed being shaded, and you’re excited to pay it forward. Along the same lines, there are negative things you’ve endured for a while. You can be the one who turns it around, and you will. The first step is recognising the pattern.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)

You do not need to reveal everything about yourself immediately. Trust should build gradually. It should be earned. Let people get to know you piece by piece. Anyone who is insensitive with smaller disclosures or softer outer layers has not earned access to your deeper self.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)

It is easy to honour what is sacred to you. What’s more difficult is honouring what’s sacred to someone else, but not to you. And yet, your empathy, emotional intelligence and maturity allow you to recognise that respect does not require shared belief, only shared humanity.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)

The universe gives you a blank space to fill in with cool handwriting, and off you go. Don’t worry, this pencil comes with an eraser, so you don’t have to get it right the first time. Keep that experimental attitude. When something doesn’t go as expected, you merely try another way.

DIFFICULTY RATING

Seniors feature

Making technology work for you with Anything Tech

Are you tired of feeling like tech doesn’t work for you? Are there a bunch of things you’d like to do but aren’t sure where to start? Technology should simplify life, not add frustration, but when things go wrong, it can feel overwhelming.

Anything Tech provides respectful, clear, in-home support for any technology issues you have – from sorting out emails and phones to fixing your TV and watering systems. I founded this business not only to fix tech issues but to empower my clients with the knowledge and confidence to use technology e ectively.

Whether you need troubleshooting, guidance or ongoing support, I’m here to help. References available. Call Ruth on 0458 196 830 to book.

Seniors

Living

Check out our seniors special featuring a host of local businesses for ideas on keeping fit, healthy and fully engaged in life as you age.

Is snoring just a nuisance — or a sign of something more?

Most of us know someone who snores. In fact, snoring becomes increasingly common with age and is often joked about within families. But while snoring may seem harmless, it can sometimes be a sign that the body is working harder than it should to breathe during sleep.

When we sleep, the muscles in the throat relax. If the airway becomes narrowed, the surrounding tissues can vibrate as air passes through, creating the familiar sound of snoring. Factors such as age, weight changes, nasal congestion, alcohol consumption, and certain sleeping positions can all contribute.

According to Dr Kavitha Vegunta, Clinician and Founder of Dental Sleep and TMJ Therapy in Phillip, persistent snoring should not always be ignored.

“Snoring itself isn’t necessarily dangerous, but it can sometimes indicate an underlying airway issue. Many patients are unaware that poor-quality sleep may be contributing to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, morning headaches, or reduced quality of life,” says Dr Vegunta. A growing area of healthcare focuses on improving airway function and sleep quality through non-invasive

treatment options. One such treatment is NightLase® by Fotona, a laser therapy that works by gently stimulating the soft palate and tongue. The aim is to improve airway tone and reduce tissue vibration that contributes to snoring.

The treatment does not involve surgery, anasthesia, injection or no down time / recovery time. However, Dr Vegunta stresses that there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

“The most important step is understanding why a person snores. For some patients, lifestyle changes may help. Others may benefit from a sleep study, medical management, or treatments such as NightLase. Proper assessment is always the starting point,” says Dr Vegunta.

If you or your partner have noticed persistent snoring, disrupted sleep, or increasing daytime fatigue, it may be worth having a conversation with a healthcare professional.

Dental Sleep and TMJ Therapy

Francis Chambers, Suite 7, 40-42 Corinna Street, Phillip, ACT 2606

T: (02) 6106 9307

E: reception@dentalsleeptherapy.au

W: dentalsleeptherapy.au

Scan the QR code to learn more or book an assessment

Helping Canberrans understand the connection between breathing, sleep, and overall wellbeing.

Talk to a healthcare professional or book your initial consultation at DST Phillip.

No referral required

Goodwin Village Downer demystifies retirement living at bustling open day

More than 500 attendees gathered at Goodwin Village Downer on Thursday 11 June for an informative and highly successful Open Day designed to showcase the vibrant community and clarify the realities of modern senior living.

The event featured tours of the village’s stateof-the-art facilities and apartments as well as three presentations by senior retirement living expert Erik Boddeus, Goodwin’s Executive Manager Retirement Living, Property and Development. The presentation addressed the financial structures and lifestyle questions that often surround the transition into a retirement community.

Unpacking the costs and care

A major highlight of the day was the educational session aimed at “demystifying” the retirement living landscape. Boddeus tackled common industry misconceptions head-on, providing clear breakdowns of standard fee structures, departure fees, and contract types.

“Making the move to a retirement community is a significant life milestone, and it is entirely natural to have questions about the financial agreements and ongoing costs,” Boddeus noted. “Events like these are vital because they empower seniors and their families

with transparent information, ensuring they can make confident decisions about their future lifestyle and care.”

The presentations also shed light on how modern villages operate, emphasising that modern retirement communities focus heavily on independence, active lifestyle choices, and preventative healthcare rather than just clinical support.

“The true beauty of living in a Goodwin retirement village is that the organisation’s Support at Home services can be offered as a seamless extension to support our residents’ changing requirements, allowing them to age in place in our villages,” Boddeus explained.

“Our independent retirement living team works hand-in-hand with the residential care and home care teams. While a place in residential care cannot be guaranteed, we work incredibly hard and closely with families to find the best solutions and care options for our independent living clients when they begin requiring extra care, either at the village or should they require transitioning to residential care.”

“For those who want a bit of extra help as a first step towards that ‘more care’ phase, the Serviced Apartments right here at Goodwin Village Downer

are a fantastic option. They offer a supportive middle ground, providing residents with one hot meal per day, a weekly laundry service, and fresh linen changes so they can maintain their independence with a reassuring layer of daily assistance.”

A vibrant and welcoming community

Throughout the day, visitors were given the opportunity to explore the manicured grounds, community spaces, and display apartments. For many attendees, the openness of the village and the chance to speak directly with staff and residents provided invaluable peace of mind.

Goodwin Village Downer Village Manager, Riddhi Shah, expressed delight at the massive turnout and the positive energy reverberating across the village.

“We are absolutely thrilled to have welcomed over 500 guests through our doors,” Shah said. “Our goal was not only to show off our beautiful village but to foster an open dialogue where people felt comfortable asking the hard questions. Seeing our current residents, who volunteered on the day, interact so warmly with prospective neighbours truly highlights the tight-knit, supportive community we have already built here at Downer.”

The resident perspective

For those contemplating a move, the ultimate validation came from the people who already call Goodwin Village Downer home. Residents who recently moved into the village shared their experience with the crowd, reflecting on how quickly the transition felt like the right choice.

“Before moving in, I had my own reservations about giving up the old family home and navigating the contracts,” Kevin Vassarotti shared. “But from the moment I arrived, the sense of security and companionship was overwhelming. The financial side was explained very clearly to me, and living here has given me a new lease on life without the burdens of heavy house maintenance. My only regret is that I didn’t make the move sooner.”

Looking to the future

As Canberra’s senior population continues to grow, the demand for transparent, high-quality retirement solutions remains a priority for local families. The overwhelming success of the Downer Open Day underscores a clear appetite for community-centric living spaces that offer a balance of autonomy and support.

With misconceptions shattered and fee structures clarified, many of the day’s attendees left with a much clearer picture of what their next chapter could look like.

For more information about upcoming open days or to book a private tour of the facilities, contact the Goodwin Village Downer team on 02 6175 5043

Visitors at the Goodwin Village Downer Open Day loved exploring the different apartment options

A practical resource for health and wellbeing

Hartley’s accessible hydrotherapy pool in Hughes supports rehabilitation and low-impact exercise.

Owned and operated by Hartley Lifecare, the Hartley Hydrotherapy Pool is one of the few dedicated hydrotherapy facilities in Canberra that is both fully accessible and open to the wider community.

Located in Hughes, the pool maintains a consistent 34-degree environment designed to support rehabilitation, pain management and improved mobility. For people recovering from injury, living with disability, or managing arthritis and other chronic conditions, water-based therapy can enable movement that is difficult or painful on land. The buoyancy of warm water reduces joint loading, supports muscle relaxation and allows for controlled, low-impact exercise.

What sets this facility apart is its accessibility and flexibility. The pool includes ramp and hoist access, handrails and non-slip surfaces, ensuring people with varying mobility levels can use the space safely. It can be booked for self-managed sessions or exclusive use, making it suitable for individuals, allied health professionals and small groups. The setting is practical and community-focused rather than commercial or high traffic, which supports privacy and comfort.

Importantly, community-based hydrotherapy expands access beyond acute care settings and

Open to the public

short-term treatment plans. It provides a local, reliable option for people to maintain therapy over time, not just during periods of crisis or formal intervention. Regular access can assist with strength, balance and endurance, contributing to long term independence and quality of life.

Facilities such as this also create opportunities for preventative health, particularly for older Canberrans seeking safe, low-impact exercise. As demand grows for inclusive health infrastructure, affordable and centrally located services are essential.

The Hartley Hydrotherapy Pool is a clear example of community-focused design responding to genuine need and delivering practical, lasting benefit.

Hartley Hydro It is accessible to anyone however, bookings are essential. Phone 6185 1653 or email the team at hydrotherapy@hartley.org.au to lock in your next session.

Exercise: One of the best medicines for healthy ageing

For Australians aged 65 and over, staying active has never been more important, yet around 75 per cent are not meeting recommended activity levels. At the same time, three in five older Australians live with at least one chronic condition. While these statistics are concerning, the good news is that regular exercise can improve health and wellbeing at any age.

Strength training and physical activity help maintain muscle mass, bone density and joint health, improving balance and reducing the risk of falls and injury. Exercise also boosts energy, supports better sleep, improves mental health, and may help reduce the risk of conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Importantly, you do not need a long history of exercise to experience these benefits, starting later in life can still lead to significant improvements in strength, mobility and confidence (yes, even 80 isn’t too old to start!).

Exercise also plays a vital role in preventing and managing chronic disease, including diabetes, heart

disease, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Programs such as GLA:D, designed specifically for hip and knee osteoarthritis, have been shown to reduce pain and improve function.

At Higher Function Physio & Pilates, we understand that starting exercise can feel intimidating, particularly in a traditional gym environment. That’s why we offer a welcoming, supportive space where all programs are guided by experienced Physiotherapists and Exercise Physiologists.

Our services include one-on-one therapy and small group Clinical Exercise Classes tailored to individual goals. Programs include Strong Bones for Osteoporosis, Strength for Life for over 50s (developed by COTA), the GLA:D Program for osteoarthritis, as well as Reformer and Matwork Pilates. Every client completes an initial assessment before commencing classes to ensure programs are safe, personalised and aligned with their functional goals. Most services are claimable through private health

insurance, and eligible DVA card holders may also access classes and therapy.

At Higher Function Physio & Pilates, we’re here to help you be strong, independent and doing the things you love for longer.

23 Petrie Plaza, Canberra City ACT 2601

T: 02 6262 9664

E: reception@higherfunction.com.au

W: higherfunction.com.au

A new chapter awaits at St. Quentin Place, Kaleen

If you’ve been thinking about what your next stage of life might look like, RSL LifeCare has some exciting news. The next stage of their community, St. Quentin Place, is officially underway — bringing 83 beautiful new homes to one of Canberra’s most loved neighbourhoods.

For many older Canberrans, the question isn’t whether to make a move, it’s finding the right place to move to. Somewhere familiar. Somewhere manageable. Somewhere that feels like home. That’s exactly what St. Quentin Place offers.

More choice, right where you belong

RSL LifeCare CEO Drew Pearce puts it simply: “This is about giving veterans and seniors more choice in where and how they live, in a part of Canberra they already know.”

What’s on offer

This next stage will deliver 72 stylish apartments and 11 townhouses, alongside a stunning new

community hub designed by award-winning interior designers, Studio Tate. Canberra-based builder Bloc Constructions has already broken ground, with construction expected to take around 18 months.

Homes designed around how you want to live

RSL LifeCare Chief Property Officer Steve Thomas says the focus is on what today’s older Australians are looking for.

“People want homes that are well located, lower maintenance and designed around everyday convenience. That’s what St. Quentin Place is all about.”

Nestled beside woodland at 160 Ellenborough Street Kaleen, St. Quentin Place offers modern retirement living with an effortless feel. So you can spend less time worrying about upkeep and more time focused on your wellbeing, your friendships and the things you love.

About RSL LifeCare

RSL LifeCare is a not-for-profit organisation with over 110 years of experience enriching the lives of veterans and seniors. When you choose St. Quentin Place, you’re joining a community backed by genuine care and a long legacy of service. Find out more at stquentinplace.com.au

RENOVATE TO STAY OR SELL

If your home no longer suits your needs but the thought of selling, moving, or renovating feels overwhelming, you’re not alone.

At Renovation Matters, we help Canberra homeowners unlock the true value of their homes through thoughtful, cost-e ective renovations that add comfort, function, and style — all delivered with the expertise of some of Canberra’s best tradespeople.

Renovate to sell: We guide you through strategic upgrades that help you sell faster, for a higher price, and with minimal stress — with funding available until settlement.

Renovate to stay: Love where you live? We can help you update your home for comfort, style, and functionality. From decluttering and updating key rooms to managing trusted trades on your behalf, we handle it all with care, clarity, and a personal touch.

“I had a fantastic experience working with Renovation Matters to get my house ready for sale. They did an excellent job with the renovations—everything was completed to a high standard and on schedule. The team was professional, reliable, and Kim kept me informed throughout the whole process. Communication was always clear and prompt. Kim’s management skills are exceptional. She is an absolute pleasure to work with. She is compassionate, professional, thoughtful, clever, and brilliant at her job. I highly recommend Renovation Matters and Kim to anyone needing quality renovation work.”

Helping Canberrans live independently at home

Optimise LifeCare Services is a private home care business providing affordable, compassionate, and reliable support to help people remain independent in the comfort of their own homes.

Whether you need assistance with personal care and showering, transport to appointments, meal preparation, household cleaning, shopping, laundry, lawn maintenance, or general daily support, our team is here to help. We tailor our services to meet your individual needs and can provide flexible support designed around your lifestyle and goals.

For clients requiring clinical support, we can also arrange Registered Nurses to assist with a range of clinical care needs, ensuring you receive professional, high-quality care in your

Seniors feature

own home.

Whether you are waiting for a Home Care Package, self-funding your care, or self-managing your Home Care Package through our partnership with Trilogy Care, we can help coordinate the services you need.

As a new local business, we currently have places available and are accepting new clients. Call 0401 351 677 today to discuss how we can support you or your loved one.

Optimise LifeCare Services

Give a Hand. Change a Life. W: optimiselifecareservices.com.au

Including rainbow seniors in aged care

Many LGBTI+ seniors experience discrimination and exclusion in aged care. They often feel the need to hide their identity; some avoid using aged care services altogether.

If you work with seniors, demonstrate your commitment to LGBTI-friendly care with Meridian’s Silver Rainbow training. This session will help you understand and celebrate the diversity of bodies, genders, sexualities and relationships of older LGBTI people. You’ll build skills to provide sensitive, trauma-informed, person-centred practices for rainbow seniors.

Get in Touch

Tell us a little about your situation and we’ll be in touch within one business day — NO PRESSURE, NO OBLIGATION.

Trusted Home Care

It can also support aged care services to:

• meet Aged Care Act and Quality Standards obligations

• achieve LGBTI Specialisation Verification.

Meridian is the only ACT Silver Rainbow provider.

85 Northbourne Avenue, Turner T: 0262572855

E: training@meridianact.org.au

W: meridianact.org.au

That Helps You Stay Independent

Give a Hand. Change a Life.

Optimise LifeCare Services delivers warm, reliable private home care and clinical support for older Australians — at home, on your terms.

Holden on to the Aussie dream

by GEORGIA CURRY

The National Archives of Australia (NAA) resembled a “winternats” this morning (as opposed to Summernats) as a dozen restored Holdens rolled up for the media launch of Rear vision: the Holden collection

That’s where the similarity ends – even though there was the smell of petrol and glint of chrome – as this exhibition is a little more highbrow than Summernats (not a skid-mark or mullet in sight).

It’s pure nostalgia, reminiscing Holden’s journey from a 19th-century saddlery, through to military production for WWII, the creation of Australia’s own car, and the company’s closure in 2017.

You don’t have to be a ‘petrol head’ to appreciate this road trip because Holden is a quintessential Australian story, with rare artefacts like the first and last engines Holden produced, a Monaro tri-matic gearbox, custom paint and trim samples, and the original bronze lion statue from

the Elizabeth plant entrance gate.

Canberra Classic Holden Club member, Tony Pryce, parked his old Holden (Ben, a Holden 48215 FX) a little closer than other motorists – right inside the foyer.

“It’s named after Ben Chifley because he was Prime Minister at the time,” Tony said. “It’s the oldest registered Holden in the ACT. They came out November 1948 and that’s a September 1949 build so it’s less than 12 months after they started.”

There’s something quite sad about Holden being relegated to a museum exhibit (car manufacturing in Australia has become extinct).

That is why this exhibition is so important, to remember the glory days and witness rare documents from former employees that provide insights into the rise and fall of a much-loved Australian company.

“It is very sad,” Tony said, “but that’s the way of the times and that’s how it works because you can’t make them here cheap enough anymore. That’s the biggest problem.”

If you’re wondering how on earth Tony drove his Holden into the foyer of the National Archives, it was a major logistical exercise.

An extended tilt tray was used to transport the car over the steps, then the Holden’s rear mudguards and bumper bar were taken off to fit through the narrow doorway, with only half-aninch to spare on either side.

Rear vision: the Holden collection is a free exhibition at the National Archives of Australia from 12 June to 11 October. Info: naa.gov.au/ visit-us/events-and-exhibitions/rear-visionholden-collection

Canberra Classic Holden Club member Tony Pryce parked his old Holden in the foyer of the National Archives of Australia as part of Rear vision: the Holden collection.

Photo Georgia Curry

Booktalk

This week, Jeff Popple reviews three enjoyable novels about sisters, serial killers and a haunted mountain. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

The Sisters of Serendib by Ayesha Inoon

HQ, $32.99

The Sisters of Serendib by Canberra author Ayesha Inoon is a moving story about family and the bonds of sisterhood. When a mother dies on an asylum boat fleeing war-torn Sri Lanka, her three daughters are separated and scattered across Australia. Years later, the eldest, Janu, still remembers the home she left behind and the sisters she lost. Gradually, she discovers clues to her sisters’ new identities and locations, and begins the quest to reunite them, but can something broken ever be fully repaired? A poignant and timely novel about the human cost of international turmoil and the strength of family.

The Death Row Club by V. A. Vazquez

Simon & Schuster, $34.99

Family also features in V. A. Vazquez’s fresh debut crime novel, The Death Row Club Nicola Fischer is spiralling. Her father was just convicted of murdering five young women, including her best friend, and her local American community has turned against her. When she is invited to an exclusive, off-grid annual gathering for people like her, the adult children of serial killers, she eagerly accepts. It is the chance to mix with people in the same unwanted situation as her. However, when an unexpected guest turns up and a murder occurs, she finds herself trapped in the wilderness with no way out. Good escapist fun.

Devil

Mountain

by Inessa Jackson

Affirm Press, $34.99

When Detective Sergeant Anastasia Brown is sent to investigate a grisly murder in a small New South Wales town, she welcomes the chance to run from heartbreak and humiliation. However, this is no ordinary murder. The body of a popular doctor has been found on the mountain, chained and burned, with arcane symbols carved into the soles of his feet. With a town full of suspects, and rumours of ghosts and witches, Ana has her work cut out, especially when her recent past catches up with her. Easy flowing, with some nice twists and a good pace, Devil Mountain is an enjoyable winter read.

MACKEY Serhan

Principal Adviser / Founder

PSS, CSS, MSBS and DFRDB Specialist “My practice focuses on providing advice to people nearing retirement, Australian public servants and anyone with a membership of government or military defined benefit schemes”

Phone: 0422 354 617

Email: serhan@canberraadvice.com.au

Website: www.canberraadvice.com.au

Office: Suite 258, 44 Constitution Avenue Parkes ACT 2600

What’s on!

MUSIC

Carmina Burana

4 JUL

Canberra Choral Society and National Capital Orchestra present two choral masterpieces: Poulenc’s Gloria and Orff’s Carmina Burana. Conducted by NCO Artistic Director Louis Sharpe, with Rachel Mink (soprano), Dan Walker (tenor), Sitiveni Talei (baritone) and substantial local choral and orchestral forces.

Llewellyn Hall, The ANU, Saturday 4 July, 3pm; premier. ticketek.com.au/shows/show. aspx?sh=NATIONCO26

FOOD

Truffle experience at Water’s Edge

UNTIL 20 JUL

Celebrate truffle season with Water’s Edge Canberra’s special three-course truffle menu, available from 11 June to 20 July. Curated by Executive Chef Avi, the $130 menu showcases local black truffles across a range of seasonal dishes, all enjoyed with stunning views over Lake Burley Griffin. Bookings are essential.

Water’s Edge Canberra, until 20 July; watersedgecanberra.com.au

SPORT

CBR Brave vs Adelaide Adrenaline 26 JUN

The Canberra Brave and Perth Thunder face off in a highly anticipated weekend double header, renewing one of the Australian Ice Hockey League’s most physical and closely contested rivalries.

AIS Arena, 20-21 June; canberrabrave.com.au

EXHIBITION

Antarctica

1 JUL

SPORT

Raiders vs Dragons 28 JUN

The Raiders’ season is hanging by a thread as they host the lowly Dragons in a must-win clash at home.

GIO Stadium, 28 June; raiders. com.au

Explore Australia’s connection to the frozen continent at the National Museum of Australia’s Antarctica exhibition, featuring rare artefacts, interactive displays and stories from more than a century of Antarctic exploration, science and survival.

National Museum of Australia, 1 July to 11 October; nma.gov.au/antarctica

Find more listings at canberradaily.com.au

HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP?

Contact Anand on 0432 887 457 or anand@newstimemedia.com.au

Now sh wing

Tuner (MA15+)

Apprentice piano tuner Niki White (Leo Woodall) goes about New York City with his boss Harry Horowitz (Dustin Hoffman). Niki has a condition that leaves him extremely sensitive to noise, which debilitated his piano playing career but assists his trade. While trying to tune a wealthy client’s piano at night, thieves breaking into an upstairs safe break Niki’s concentration.

The movie sets its scope specifically and meets all expectations confidently. The opening scenes expose Niki and Harry’s characters by detailing their daily life, their relationship, and their shared passion for music. Niki tunes pianos for others who can practice their talents to great success, while his lies latent and unexplored. Viewed as little more than a technician, Niki’s clash of status is visualised when he meets ambitious piano student Ruthie (Havana Rose

Liu) on a music conservatory’s stage. The pair see themselves in each other: Ruthie senses something more under Niki’s hood, whereas Niki sees his alternate life in Ruthie’s musical trajectory.

When Harry suffers a medical mishap, it is easy to empathise with Niki’s dubious choice to use his sensitive hearing to assist a group of security agents to break into their own wealthy clients’ safes to glean off the top of their superfluous riches. Refreshingly, the crims are wellrounded with their own mannerisms, quirks, and likability. Their fundamental characters, however, come to the fore when the stakes are high and the chips are down.

Verdict: A solid piece all round.

- Luke McWilliams themovieclub.net Viewed at Dendy Cinemas.

health & wellbeing

When the seasons get into your head

with DR VIVIENNE LEWIS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA

Around autumn and winter every year, many people start noticing a shift in themselves. Energy levels drop, motivation disappears, getting out of bed becomes harder and suddenly the idea of cancelling plans and staying home feels deeply appealing. While we often joke about winter blues, for some people, the change in seasons genuinely a ects their mental health. This is known as Seasonal

A ective Disorder, or SAD, a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, most commonly occurring during autumn and winter. It can leave people feeling flat, exhausted, irritable, emotionally sensitive and withdrawn. Some people sleep more, crave comfort foods, struggle to concentrate or lose interest in things they would normally enjoy.

Importantly, this is not simply people being lazy; there are actual biological reasons why some people struggle more during colder, darker months. Our brains and bodies like light. Sunlight plays a major role in regulating our internal body clock (known as our circadian rhythm), which influences sleep, mood, energy and hormones. During winter, we get less natural light exposure, particularly in the mornings, and this can disrupt the systems that help us feel awake, alert and

emotionally balanced.

Reduced sunlight is also thought to a ect serotonin, one of the brain chemicals linked to mood and wellbeing. Lower serotonin levels are associated with depression. At the same time, darker days can increase melatonin production, the hormone that helps us sleep. So people can end up feeling more tired, sluggish and emotionally flat.

On top of this biological shift, winter often changes our behaviour in ways that can worsen mood. We exercise and socialise less and spend more time indoors. We are exposed to less fresh air, less movement and less human connection, all things that are protective for mental health.

Of course, not everyone who dislikes winter has SAD. Many people simply notice they feel a bit flatter or less motivated during colder months.

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But if the changes are significant, happen consistently each year and interfere with daily functioning, it is worth paying attention to.

There are practical things that can help. Light exposure is one of the biggest. Getting outside early in the day, opening curtains and sitting near natural light can all make a di erence. And exercise remains one of the best mood regulators we have, even when motivation is low.

Routine also matters. When mood drops, people often start sleeping irregularly, withdrawing socially and avoiding activities that usually help them feel good, which tends to reinforce low mood.

So, if you feel di erent during winter, you are not imagining it. As human beings we are deeply connected to the world around us, including the seasons.

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Powerful new documentary offers hope

by BERNIE RYAN

Every day, hundreds of emails and press releases arrive in a journalist’s inbox. All of them meaningful to someone.

The challenge for the journalist is to discern which of these messages is meaningful or relevant to as many of their audience base as possible. It is rare to find that ‘gem’ that has almost universal appeal.

Last week, during my daily ‘triage’ of inbox suggestions, one particularly humble, four-line message from Australian writer and director Kane Guglielmi caught my eye.

In it, an invitation to click on a trailer link for ‘Australia’s largest scale documentary of the year –

Common Wealth’.

I clicked and had a visceral reaction to the trailer in the most positive of ways.

I felt compelled to unearth more of what I was already fairly convinced our readers would love.

Speaking with Kane last Saturday morning from his farm in rural Australia, I was not disappointed. So, what did I learn?

Why is Common Wealth different and why should you consider grabbing a fistful of tickets, like I did, for the ANU screening later this month.

Common Wealth arose from Kane’s own personal trauma and life experiences and his sense that, particularly after the last six years, “… the world was in pain”.

“Those around me were struggling, as was I. Financially. Mentally. Socially,” Kane wrote in the film’s Director’s Statement.

“Most seemingly trying to hold it together with a brave face. But why? Why was this happening? And importantly, what could we do about it?”

With this personal quest as Kane’s north star, he “… called some mates, grabbed a camera and hit the road”, to do his best to see if there were some answers out there, to the wealth inequality, economics and political issues that seemed to be contributing to so much of our collective anguish.

Kane was determined to revive the art of simply having ‘conversations’ with people from differing points of view, life experiences, backgrounds and political persuasions, and find a way to share what he learned.

In a way that might unite, rather than continue to divide, us.

The result? A poignant documentary filmed and produced over four years and in breathtaking colour, across eight countries and funded predominantly by Kane and his family and the remainder from non-institutional, non-NGO, and non-government-affiliated donors.

Above all though, it promises an overwhelming message of hope.

Yes, hope.

One of the first things I also learned from Kane, one of Australia’s youngest directors early in his career (Home and Away, 2011), is that he did not initially intend to include his personal journey in the film.

Let alone be in front of the camera.

“It certainly wasn’t an easy decision from my part, because I’ve been notoriously private all my life, and a behind the camera kind of guy,” Kane said.

Kane says he felt that these topics needed a personal human

connection to make sense of what might otherwise then may have been deemed, “…boring at face value”.

The fullness of time, however, has revealed an increased appetite for having conversations about the now very timely issues in the film.

“My only ambition for the film is to start conversations,” says Kane.

“Not to tell people how to think, what to think, or push my personal opinions.

“But merely start conversations because we are living in times where it’s almost not encouraged to have open debate anymore.”

Common Wealth is Kane’s way of bringing different voices into the ‘one room’ where he and the viewer can hear that, “what do you think?” once again.

Arguably, from where most significant progress has emerged. The lost art of listening, brainstorming, debating and working together for a solution.

“One of the key messages of the film is that we have far more in common than we are led to believe,” said Kane.

“There is that little ten per cent where we may differ…but on the whole, I think just about every single one of us wants largely the same thing.

“They want a life of some level of prosperity, happiness, family, be able to build something, and experience all the wonder that the world has to offer.”

Kane seems to have found a poignant way to remind us that we are not ‘right’ or ‘left’, but human beings on a more common journey than we should ever have been allowed to forget.

View the trailer at commonwealthfilm.com and the full video conversation between Bernie and Kane at canberradaily. com.au.

www.michellerichardshearing com.au

michellerichardshearing

@michelle_richards_hearing

Local care. Expert solutions.

you’ve been looking for — right here in Canberra.

Proudly independent and locally owned, Michelle Richards Hearing is not part of a chain or franchise. That means you receive genuine advice, no sales pressure, just hearing solutions tailored to your unique lifestyle and needs.

Michelle Richards, a highly experienced Audiometrist with over 20 years of clinical expertise in adult hearing rehabilitation, is passionate about supporting people of all ages to live better through better hearing.

hearing aid technology including discreet, rechargeable, and AI-powered options.

Whether you need a comprehensive hearing assessment, tinnitus support, hearing protection, or hearing aids, Michelle delivers expert care with a warm, community-focused approach.

Conveniently located in Dickson, Michelle Richards Hearing welcomes private, pension, DVA and Hearing Services Program (HSP) clients.

Home visits are also available for those who are unable to travel.

Easy living in the heart of Belconnen

Belconnen 12/170 Totterdell Street

Are you and your family searching Tucked away in a sought-after Belconnen location, this beautifully renovated single-level townhouse delivers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience and lowmaintenance living.

Positioned at the end of the complex and enjoying a prized northern orientation, the twobedroom home is filled with natural light throughout. The spacious open-plan living and dining area features full-length windows that capture the winter sun, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

At the heart of the home, the renovated kitchen offers ample storage, generous bench space and modern appliances, making everyday living effortless.

Both bedrooms are oversized and include built-in robes, while the stylish bathroom boasts a double vanity and contemporary finishes.

A separate toilet, laundry and splitsystem heating and cooling add

further practicality.

Outside, private front and rear courtyards provide peaceful spaces to relax, entertain or enjoy a morning coffee among lowmaintenance gardens. An oversized single garage and additional allocated car space complete the package.

Just moments from Westfield Belconnen, Lake Ginninderra, public transport and local amenities, this is an ideal opportunity for first-home buyers, downsizers and investors alike. Easy, stylish and superbly located, this Belconnen gem ticks all the right boxes.

2 1 2

EER 2.0

Price $599,000+

Agent Andrew Browne Mob 0403 169 259

LJ Hooker Dickson 6257 2111

Our residents love calling Bellerive Village home – and you will too.

Our relaxed, contemporary retirement village makes it easy for you to make the most of every day. Ditch the mower and enjoy the social community, neighbours you know, and your own home without the time-consuming maintenance. We’ll even change the lightbulbs.

For your day-to-day needs, Bellerive’s conveniently located close to the Canberra Hospital and the heart of Woden, home to Westfield, the bus interchange and many of Canberra’s premier clubs.

Apartment features include:

• Light-filled open plan lounge, dining, and kitchen opening onto a balcony

• Modern kitchen with stainless-steel appliances and dishwasher

• Two balconies, providing excellent indoor-outdoor flow and flexibility

• Reverse cycle air conditioning in the living area and master bedroom

• Spacious master bedroom with built-in wardrobe and ensuite

• Two additional bedrooms, with built-in wardrobes

• Large amounts of storage throughout

• Internal laundry with dryer

• Quality fixtures and fittings throughout

• Secure parking with internal building access

• Storage cage

• Option for a second car space (costs apply)

• Solar electricity supporting community living

More than a home, it’s a community Move in ready

Family owned and operated for over 35 years, The Grange retirement village enjoys an unbeatable location in the ACT. Set among the leafy, tree‑lined streets of Deakin and just 300 metres from local shops, the village is also close to medical facilities and essential services.

Enjoy a low‑maintenance lifestyle within a warm, welcoming community, supported by a range of quality facilities including an indoor heated pool and spa, library, hairdressing salon, community gardens, onsite dining, and a pet‑friendly environment.

24‑hour onsite emergency support provides added peace of mind. A trained staff member is always onsite to offer calm assistance, basic first aid, and to contact emergency services if required, remaining with you until help arrives.

Our spacious independent living homes feature:

• Modern kitchens with stone benchtops and stainless‑steel appliances

• Open plan living and dining areas

• Most homes opening onto a generous balcony or courtyard

• Contemporary bathrooms

• Internal laundry

• Heating and cooling for year‑round comfort.

For future peace of mind, The Grange also offers one‑bedroom serviced apartments located onsite. Should a resident’s needs change, they may choose to move from an independent home into a serviced apartment, where assistance is provided with cleaning, all meals prepared onsite, and heavy laundry such as washing and changing bedding and towels. Personal care is not provided; however residents are welcome to continue with their own preferred personal care provider if required.

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

news briefs

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ACT land release plan targets 26,000 homes over ve years

The ACT Government says it will release land to support almost 26,000 new homes over the next fi ve years, as part of its broader target to enable 30,000 new homes by 2030.

The Housing Supply and Land Release program for 2026-27 to 2030-31, released today ahead of this week’s ACT Budget, sets out planned land releases for residential, commercial, community and mixed-use development across Canberra.

This includes sites for nearly 4,300 homes this financial year, housing minister Yvette Berry MLA said.

15 per cent of suitable residential land

releases would be reserved for nearly 300 public, community and a ordable dwellings.

The government says most new homes will be located within Canberra’s existing urban footprint, close to jobs, transport, and services, while growth areas such as Molonglo Town Centre and Macnamara will be linked to infrastructure planning.

The 2026-27 Budget will include $4.6 million over two years for planning reform, technical studies, and precinct readiness, which the government says will speed up the delivery of housing.

Irankunda heroics vindicate bold coach in Socceroo win

true,” Irankunda told SBS.

Delivering a

•

A scared Nestory Irankunda batted away nerves to explode on to the World Cup stage and vindicate coach Tony Popovic’s faith in him by inspiring Australia’s incredible 2-0 win over Turkey.

Irankunda later added to media: “That’s just what our team is all about: we fight for each other, and we just want to show the world that we can do something special

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Australia have one foot in the knockout phase after one of their greatest ever victories, their first opening group-stage win since 2006, on Sunday afternoon (AEST) at Vancouver’s BC Place.

Irankunda became Australia’s youngest World Cup scorer with a wonderful goal in the 27th minute among a magical, explosive hour, before Connor Metcalfe sealed victory with a glorious solo e ort in the 75th.

“It’s epic. It’s unreal. Like, it’s a dream come

“A lot of people don’t believe in us, but we have to believe in ourselves, and that’s all that matters at the end of the day.

“I didn’t think I would score on my debut, but I knew one day … that I was going to score in a World Cup, and it came so quick.”

The win sets up an enthralling clash with cohosts the United States, who beat Paraguay 4-1 and lead Group D ahead of Australia, in Seattle on Saturday 20 June at 5am (AEST).

Stuart con rms Papali’i’s departure at end of the year

Coach Ricky Stuart has revealed veteran Canberra enforcer Josh Papali’i will not play for the Raiders next season, ending a glittering tenure with the NRL club.

The former Queensland prop extended his contract with the Green Machine for one year after they claimed the minor premiership last season, but hopes of the 34-year-old continuing with the club have been dashed.

When asked on Friday if Papali’i would stay in the nation’s capital, Stuart said: “No, he won’t be.”

“You don’t want to lose the investment we put into

players like Josh … We have a lot of young Polynesian boys in our club as well, and I know they look up to Papa as though he’s their god,” the coach added.

“He’s seen as that leader and guy who’s done it on the field, not through talk, but through action.”

Papali’i is currently sidelined with a calf injury picked up in April, but the loss of Canberra’s mostcapped player will be felt even more next season, especially after having played his first game for the Raiders as a teenager in 2011.