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Henri Matisse, Vegetal elements (Éléments végétaux), 1947, Museum Berggruen, Neue Nationalgalerie—Stiftung
Preußischer Kulturbesitz © Succession H. Matisse/ Copyright Agency, 2025, photo: © bpk/Nationalgalerie, SMB, Museum Berggruen/Jens Ziehe
by NICHOLAS FULLER
Self-described “chick from Charny”, “hard-working ordinary family battler”, and country singer, Leanne Castley MLA, is the new leader of the Canberra Liberals — and the first to admit she is not a typical politician.
She did not study Pol. Sci. at ANU, organise unions, or work as a staffer. Instead, she was an IT project manager, dental assistant, cleaner, clerk, Tupperware seller, beautician, singing teacher, tuckshop lady, and mechanic’s trade assistant.
Ms Castley only stood for election because she was frustrated the government had not fixed the streetlights where she lived. The streetlights didn’t work; nor, she believes, does the current government — and she wants Canberra fixed, too.
Come 2028, Labor will have been in power, and the Liberals in opposition, for 27 years — “a long time”, Ms Castley says. But she has her
sights set on becoming the next Chief Minister.
Ms Castley was chosen as party leader, succeeding Elizabeth Lee, after last year’s election and the Liberals’ seventh consecutive defeat since 2001.
“I’ve had the most wonderful eight months,” Ms Castley said. “It’s hard, difficult, fun, interesting — and a privilege. No one day is the same. We go from meeting vets who want to fix horses’ teeth to, disappointingly, a lady just in my office whose husband can’t get good cardiac care in the hospital. There are so many issues and so many things that Canberrans care about, and I love listening to every one of them.”
beset by in-fighting and conservative views that are on the nose for a ‘progressive’ jurisdiction, but “an effective opposition and a genuine alternative government”.
“Trust is everything,” Ms Castley said. “It’s easy to make promises, but it’s harder to deliver. You can say anything you want to, but until you actually deliver, people will see us with a bit of scepticism.”
“I’ve worked on unity with the party from the outset of becoming leader.”
Ms Castley is aware, however, that the Liberals must work hard to persuade Canberrans that they are the right party to govern the ACT — not a long-term opposition,
A month into her leadership, Ms Castley began a listening tour of the ACT, talking to “hundreds of local people” about their concerns. The lack of affordable housing, she says, has forced many to move to NSW and commute, while sky-high rents leave tenants at risk of homelessness. The cost-of-living crisis hits ordinary Canberrans hard, worsened by regulatory burdens on small businesses, pushing up prices. And Canberra needs accessible and reliable public services; good frontline workers are enduring bad systems and poor morale. All, in her view, are caused by Labor’s preference for “grand plans and city-shaping projects” over what the community needs.
“We’ve had such a long reign of reckless
spending and not enough delivery,” Ms Castley said. “We’ve had a reform agenda [based on tax reform, economic diversification, and infrastructure investment], and we’re no better off because of it. We’re in so much more debt than if they hadn’t even bothered having an agenda. It’s time that someone looked past winning an election to what we want Canberra to look like. I want that to be a place where my kids can get a home, my grandchildren can go to school and university, and live here without this massive looming debt that is only getting bigger.”
The Liberals will gradually reveal their vision for the ACT and their reform plans over the next three years. Ms Castley wants to “Be visible more in the front end of term, so that Canberra is used to seeing and hearing us talk about the great things that we want for Canberra, and what they want for Canberra is something we’ll fight for.”
The recent resignation of Peter Cain MLA from the shadow cabinet to the backbench was not, however, the sort of visibility a party leader wants in the front end of term. Mr Cain alleged he had “concerns regarding the direction of the current leadership team and processes through
which key decisions have been made”. Ms Castley has said his decision surprised her, and reassured the public that the Liberals were a unified team.
“I’ve worked on unity with the party from the outset of becoming leader,” Ms Castley said. “Of course it’s a disappointment… Obviously, we have a way to go in making sure our communication is clear; if there’s a problem, that we’re all talking and working together. As I’ve said to Peter, my door is always open; I’m very happy to have a discussion when he’s ready — if he’s ready — to come back and take some portfolios on.”
In the meantime, Ms Castley has taken on Mr Cain’s former planning portfolio.
Mr Cain aside, the Liberals work brilliantly together, Ms Castley said, partly because their portfolios cross over.
“We are a small team. We have to work together, or it won’t work.”
In fact, Ms Castley said, the Liberals’ hard work — sometimes in collaboration with independent or Green MLAs — has resulted in their winning more motions than in any term since they were in government: forcing the ACT
to release business cases for light rail, and to commit to coercive control legislation; inquiries into the health system and elective surgery waiting times, into how to improve the FixMy Street app, into stamp duty, and into lobbying; or keeping Lanyon dog park leash-free and the Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre open.
“I really want Canberrans to understand that we don’t want to just wait for an election to throw things out there and hope for a win,” Ms Castley said. “We actually want to make Canberra better. And if we can do that from opposition, we will.”
Some commentators suggest that independents could be the key to a Liberal victory in 2028; Ms Castley says that option is always on the table, but her goal is to win the maximum number of seats, and secure a Liberal victory.
“It’s a remarkable journey I’ve been on, and I hope to leave one day having done many great things to change the face of Canberra to be the Canberra that people like me want to see…
“Not a day goes by that I don’t just have to say: ‘Wow, Leanne, look at what life is like, and the opportunities you’ve got now!’ I’m just humbled and honoured.”
by GEORGIA CURRY
In case you’ve been living under a hard rock, AC/ DC are coming to Australia and while Canberra’s not on the tour, we were once a regular stop for the band – including the old Ginninderra High and Belconnen High School in the 1970s.
Current standing tickets in 2025 are $305 (sold out), but in 1976, it cost a measly $5.30, and the first ticket sold was to Canberra born-andbred muso Nic Dalton, who remembers getting accidentally spat on (or “baptised”) by Bon Scott.
“I raced into Homecraft – Canberra’s one and only mainstream record store in Garema Place – and bought our tickets,” Nick recalls, who was only 11 at the time.
“[At the concert] I’m in the front row and I’m at my first indoors rock show so I get prepared,” he recalls. “I’ve taken my t-shirt off and I’m perched on [friend] Tim’s shoulders punching the air as Bon Scott enters from side of stage with Angus on top of his shoulders, playing a guitar solo with one hand.
“They come right up to the front of the stage, directly in front of me. Bon grinning at the crowd, dressed only in a pair or blue jeans... and I’m being spat on by both of them, as they get into the music.”
It’s hard to believe that AC/DC once graced Canberra’s school halls when they’re about to fill Sydney’s Accor Stadium (capacity 83,500) in November. The 1976 Ginninderra High gig had about 300-400 school kids and Bon Scott reportedly autographed a brick wall, but Ginninderra High was eventually demolished.
Another Canberran who was at that legendary Ginninderra High gig was Tony Rumble, who remembered there were noise complaints from the neighbours.
Tony used to work for Ansett Airlines and he said AC/DC used to park their blue Ansett Pioneer Clipper bus at Canberra Airport as their base. Their tour bus was reportedly abandoned at Canberra Airport after breaking down.
“They were here quite a lot in the very early part of their career,” Tony said. “They used to
play either at the Croatian Deakin Soccer Club on a Friday night or the Harmonie German Club on a Saturday night.”
AC/DC played at Ginninderra High School (Now Kingsford Smith School) in December 1974 and December 1976, as well as Belconnen High School Hall and the Canberra Theatre in December 1975. They last played in Canberra at Exhibition Park in 2001.
With over 20 years serving the Fyshwick community, The Flute Bakery creates sumptuous gateaux for special occasions alongside an array of small cakes, tarts, fresh breads and pies. You’ll also nd mousses, bavarois, macarons, praline, feuilletine and plenty of gluten-free options.
We’re now open Saturdays from 5 July, 8am–3pm, and offering free coffee on opening weekend. Pop in on opening Saturday—we’d love to see you!
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NICOLE LAWDER FORMER ACT MLA AND DEPUTY OPPOSITION LEADER
The recent election of Sussan Ley as the first female federal Liberal Party leader represents a historic moment that “sent a signal” to Australian women.
But substantive change in the Liberal Party will require more than symbolic leadership. The Liberal Party used to lead on women’s representation: eight of the first 10 female federal MPs and senators were Liberals; for its first 50-plus years, it was the Liberals that championed female enfranchisement and it was the party the majority of women voted for, until 2001, when the party started losing their votes.
In 2019, the Liberal Party attracted the lowest proportion of women’s votes since 1987.
At the 2022 federal election, the Liberal Party achieved its worst result with women in 30 years, both in terms of primary vote and for parliamentary
representation. The Coalition is still fielding more than twice as many male candidates as female ones, with most women contesting ‘glass cli ’ seats. The ‘glass cli ’ phenomenon refers to women and other minoritised groups being more likely to be appointed to leadership positions that are risky or precarious.
The 2025 election saw the Liberal Party’s representation among women remain very low in the House of Representatives.
The Liberal Party continues to significantly lag behind other parties in both fielding women candidates and successfully electing them to parliament. After the May federal election, Australia’s federal parliament has reached gender parity, but this is not thanks to Liberal women.
The Liberal Party’s struggle with women extends far beyond electoral outcomes to fundamental questions of representation within the party itself. In 2015, the party set a target of 50% female representation by 2025, but this remains well out of reach, with women making up fewer than one in three Coalition parliamentarians.
The party’s response to these failures has been to adjust its targets rather than address underlying
issues. Acknowledging that the 2025 target was out of reach, in 2022 the party’s post-election review suggested a new target: 50% women in the federal parliament in three elections or by 2032. I would say that even this extended timeline appears optimistic without fundamental structural reforms.
Recent comments by a party elder reported in the media along the lines of women are now “su ciently assertive” in the Liberal Party and that it is probably time to start giving blokes a leg up exemplify the deep-seated attitudes that continue to undermine the party’s (half-hearted) e orts to address its “women problem”. Many professional women party members who have quietly battled misogyny and bias their entire working lives saw this as just one more in a long list of ga es and deliberate insults and sighed a sort of “here we go again”.
In an environment where women constitute a majority of voters and expect genuine equality, the party’s continued resistance to fundamental reform represents a path toward political irrelevance.
For further discussion on this topic, head to Bitesized politics (around 15 minutes easy listening) on Spotify.
BILL STEFANIAK AM RFD FORMER ACT OPPOSITION LEADER
Sad news this week with the passing of muchrespected veteran Liberal politician Greg Cornwell, former Speaker of the ACT Legislative Assembly. (I’ll write a longer obituary at another time.)
I was also privileged to attend Opposition Leader Leanne Castley’s budget reply speech, which I thought was the best since Kate Carnell’s alternative budget speech in 1994. Provided Leanne and her team keep plugging away, they may yet prove successful in 2028.
The fact that the two best budget reply speeches were delivered by Liberal women says something about encouraging more women to stand for the conservative side of politics in
Australia. Women are often a lot better than men in politics.
However, there is one area where, no matter how talented women are, they can’t compete with men: the seriously physical military tasks that members of the arms corps of the Australian Army, in particular, have to perform.
Female members of the ADF can fly planes and command ships, but they are not as e ective at digging weapon pits, carrying heavy loads, or performing many of the tasks that involve upperbody strength. To pretend otherwise is to place our combat troops in danger. As long as there is a high common standard, for example, the one our special forces have to meet, then there is no problem. However, if the standard is reduced to cater for some misguided policy of “ inclusion “ or “diversity”, then inevitably people will be killed or wounded needlessly as a result. To say otherwise goes against nature. Men are di erent from women. It doesn’t make women lesser soldiers, just soldiers with a di erent skill set.
I am reminded of the o cer cadet Jan Sinclair, the daughter of Rear Admiral Sinclair, former
Governor of NSW and the first naval o cer to review the passing out parade at OCTU Bardia Barracks in 1986, when his daughter graduated with the Sword of Honour. Jan was one of the o cer cadets I was honoured to instruct, and she was a fine soldier and leader, with more talent and ability than most of the males. However, despite her excellence, she did not have the upper body strength to do those essential infantry tasks (like digging a weapon pit) that only a male, however less able in tactical or leadership ability, could do.
For the ADF to drop its standards to comply with some misguided directive in the name of diversity, inclusion, and political correctness is potentially dangerous.
Common sense needs to be applied here, and I’m pleased to see the US military getting back to basics on this. It’s also interesting to note that, with their more gung-ho recruiting stance, the number of recruits has increased dramatically. Potential members of the ADF join the military to defend their country out of a sense of patriotism as much as anything else. Diversity and inclusion concerns should be right down the list of requirements.
FIND OUT MORE ONLINE
Join us these school holidays for hands-on fun the kids will love – no bookings needed. Monday 14 – Friday 18 July, 10am – 1pm each day
Located upstairs near ALDI
by LILLIAN ALTMAN
When Emily Pease isn’t on the field with the GWS Giants in the AFLW, she cares for animals at the zoo.
Pease spoke exclusively to CW ahead of her team’s visit to Canberra for their community camp, which Pease unfortunately could not make.
“I’m currently working in guest experience at Taronga Zoo, Sydney,” she said.
She is also studying a Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care through the zoo.
“It’s nice to have something outside footy that I’m interested in, and anything with animals I’m interested in,” Pease said.
The 23-year-old was drafted to GWS from the Belconnen Magpies in 2020, making her debut in early 2022. Unfortunately, late in that season, she suffered an ACL injury, sidelining her for 340 days.
Pease said she was excited for the 2025 season.
“We are quite a young group, but just through preseason, you can see how much we’ve developed our game plan and DNA,” she said.
“I think we’ll be playing some really exciting footy.
“I think everyone’s pretty keen to get out of pre-season and get out onto the field to play some games.”
GWS has two home grounds: ENGIE Stadium in Sydney and Manuka Oval in Canberra. Pease said it was awesome to have one of those bases at home.
“I feel like Canberra’s such a beautiful place and just being there for so long, you really appreciate it. It’s also a lovely ground,” she said.
“It’s cool to show others as well. People know it for Questacon and Parliament House, I love showing them what else there is [here].”
The team also visits Canberra for its annual community camp, visiting local clubs and schools – a highlight in Pease’s diary!
“I love getting around the kids,” she said.
GWS’ first match at Manuka Oval this season is on Saturday 16 August against Essendon.
“I think it will be a really exciting game. The first game of the season is always pretty crazy,” Pease said.
“It would be great to get as many people down
there as possible.”
She said the pathways programs in Canberra for Aussie Rules proved that anyone from Canberra could make it.
“Personally, myself and the boys Tom Green and Josh Fahey,” she said.
“Any footy players from Canberra just being able to inspire that next generation to come through.”
When asked what her highlight growing up in Canberra and playing for the Magpies was, she said the friends she made through the club.
“They’re still my mates now,” Pease said.
“I’m biased to the Canberra weather; I don’t mind a cold game.
“I just love everything about it really; it’s home to me.”
Her family still lives in Canberra.
This July, Canberra Centre is bringing the excitement with a school holiday line-up that’s packed with prehistoric adventure, celebrity sparkle, and a shopping surprise that’s sure to delight guests of all ages.
In celebration of NAIDOC Week, Canberra Centre honours the rich history and vibrant cultures of First Nations peoples with a special event on Monday 7 July at 11:30am. Join Wiradjuri Echoes on Level One outside JD Sports for a moving cultural experience featuring traditional dance and arm painting. Fatherdaughter duo Duncan and Jakida Smith will be there to share stories, art, and traditions.
From 7–20 July, the Jurassic World Rebirth Adventure Zone will take over Ground Level near David Jones, transforming the Centre into a thrilling dinosaur discovery zone. Families are invited to
explore a hands-on, immersive experience where kids can meet lifelike animatronic dinosaurs, crack open fossil eggs to uncover hidden treasures, and dive into augmented reality that brings the Jurassic era to life.
Adding a touch of glamour to the festivities, ‘Parliament House-wives’ arrives on Monday 14 July, featuring reality TV stars Teresa Giudice (The Real Housewives of New Jersey) and Whitney Rose (The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City), joined by Canberra’s own Stefania Rose. Guests are invited to an exclusive panel discussion where the trio will share insights on beauty, fashion, and lifestyle. Following the conversation, fans will have the chance to meet the Housewives in person — an exciting moment for pop culture enthusiasts and style lovers alike.
For those who love a little extra with their shopping, Canberra Centre’s ‘Unlocking More’ activation o ers
the chance to win exclusive rewards. Shoppers who spend $150 or more in-centre can collect a key and try their luck unlocking a prize — adding a fun and interactive twist to the retail experience.
This winter, Canberra Centre is more than just a place to shop — it’s a destination for adventure, entertainment, and memorable moments. So, grab your little raptors, mark your calendars, and don’t forget to pick up your key to winter fun!
by BERNIE RYAN
Canberran Kylie Message-Jones has been running most of her life. She used to prefer the solitude of trail runs before sunrise.
“It was like I wasn’t even awake, and I just adored it,” Kylie said.
Over the years however, she stopped.
“I started to hear about things happening to women generally and became more aware of what might happen,” she said.
Kylie still runs, but believes the internalisation of fear living as a woman, has gradually altered her behaviour.
“I’ll only have one ear pod in now, am always aware of the space around me… and don’t post my runs on social media,” she said.
Data provided to Canberra Weekly by ACT Policing shows that between 1 June 2024 and 31
May 2025, there were 7,453 reported offences where the victim was female.
Of these, the number of physical and sexual assaults which occurred in public and other places, and which were not domestic, and family violence related, was 629.
Another 317 occurred in a home.
There was one homicide.
The number of physical and sexual assaults which were family violence related across all locations was 1,162.
It’s not surprising then, that women are internalising their fear and changing behaviours.
But should they have to?
ACT Federal Senator David Pocock wants to make it clear to men and society, that women should not.
Senator Pocock told CW that it is the responsibility of all men, plus the wider
community to address violent, derogatory and unacceptable attitudes toward women.
Senator Pocock added that state and federal governments also need to address the “… disconnect between what politicians will get up and say and what they’re willing to actually fund”.
“It really is a big challenge because I think you need both cultural change, leadership from government around legislation and funding of different programs, and getting in front of boys and young men talking about what it is to be a
[ Continued page 17 ]
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man,” Senator Pocock said.
Sue Webeck, CEO of the ACT Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS), agrees that preventing violence against women is a complex problem which we are all responsible for.
Ms Webeck also believes we need to be careful about placing too much responsibility for change, on young men only, as it can set them up to fail when structures around them don’t change.
“We need to take responsibility as adults… Not just around the way we treat each other in intimate partner relationships or family relationships, but the way we engage with all human beings,” said Ms Webeck.
Ms Webeck is concerned that the “active ease that has happened around being able to ‘other’ people, to see them as ‘less than’ us” is an important contributing factor to violence against women.
Echoing these sentiments of collective responsibility is Dr Marisa Paterson MLA, Minister for Women, and Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence as well as four other ministerial portfolios.
Dr Paterson reiterated that what is modelled
at home, where most gendered violence occurs, is very important but agreed that negative attitudes toward women are also modelled across broader society.
“It goes to our sporting fields and the way our sporting teams operate and prioritise men’s sport. It goes to our parliaments and parties and how they elect people, our university structures and male dominated industries and sectors,” said Dr Paterson.
Dr Paterson also agrees that the Government must continue to address prevention of gendered violence and the needs of its victims.
On 11 June, the ACT Government announced a $30 million 2025–26 budget commitment to strengthen and expand the Territory’s response. Dr Paterson indicated that further pilot programs are in development.
The ACT Government already provides funding for men’s behaviour change programs, including the DVCS run free 30-week Room4Change Program, Everyman ACT’s Working with The Man and Preventing Violence, Changing Behaviour Programs, and the Multicultural Hub’s Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Men’s Non-Violence Behaviour Program, for men who want to stop their use of violence
Fyshwick
and controlling behaviours.
These programs did not benefit from this additional funding despite being required to provide partner support programs as part of the ACT behavioural change programs Practice Standards. Providers report significant waiting lists made worse by this underfunding.
“Effective and timely responses to incidences of domestic and family violence, are proven to provide a secondary prevention layer against further harm occurring,” said Ms Webeck.
An ACT Government spokesperson provided a detailed response to underfunding concerns, reiterating the government’s commitment to ongoing support of men’s behaviour change programs, and included, “We encourage all service providers to engage in the ACT Budget submission process, ensuring government has a full understanding of both the supports offered and the resources required to respond to demand.”
Violence against women is indeed a multifaceted tragedy. One that we all ought to agree on, benefits no one.
An extended version of this story will become available online at canberradaily.com.au
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GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation in the region that provides support to workers and their family members. They are assisting a solo parent who has a sick child. This parent had to quit their full-time job to care for their young child, who requires medication and medical appointments. They are having a hard time meeting their basic needs and lack the resources for medical expenses. GIVIT is requesting the donation of pharmacy vouchers to support this family during this very challenging time. Generous Canberrans can donate pharmacy vouchers or fund the purchase of this item. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase the vouchers. To help, please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’s-needed, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘pharmacy vouchers’ and Suburb: ‘Kambah ACT 2902’.
The Bold Bandannas have a stall coming up on Saturday 12 July at the Capital Markets in Belconnen from 8am to 4:30pm. We shall not only be selling our trademark preserves, lemon butter, etc, but with our minus temperatures, there are lots and lots of adult and children’s beanies, scarves and mittens to ward off those winter chills. For more info, please contact Jan on 0451 679 220
Shoshana Rapley will talk about “Invisible birds, smart tech: re-introducing the bush stone curlew,” Thursday 10 July from 12:30 to 1:30pm at the ANBG Theatrette, opposite the Australian National Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre. Trybooking.com/DAMGA. Gold coins, notes, and EFTPOS donations always welcome.
community noticeboard email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field
Mid-Year Sale at St Ninian’s
St Ninian’s Uniting Church in Lyneham will hold its indoor winter sale on Saturday 12 July from 9am to 1pm. Browse treasures, bric-a-brac, china, glassware, kitchen appliances, jewellery, winter clothing, craft and yarns, books, plants, produce, jams, relishes, and more. Morning tea will be available. Find them on the corner of Mouat and Brigalow Streets, Lyneham.
Murrumbateman: Next meeting is on Tuesday 8 July at Murrumbateman Country Inn, Barton Highway, Murrumbateman from 11 for 11:30am. Cost: meals of your choice and payment on the day, raffle and trading table. Includes a special guest speaker. If you would like more info, phone/text Liz on 0422 234 347 or email Murrumbatemanview1@gmail.com.
Tuggeranong Day: Next meeting and lunch is on Tuesday 15 July, from 11am to 2pm at the Vikings Town Centre Club, Greenway. Guest speaker Suzanne, from the Stella Bella Foundation, will share how the organisation supports children and families facing chronic childhood illness. Enjoy a two-course lunch for $36. RSVP by 11 July to Marilyn on 0409 931 720 or email marilynnewham@outlook.com.
Yerrabi: Our next meeting is on 17 July at the Eastlake Gungahlin Club, Hinder St, Gungahlin, commencing at 11 for 11:30am. Our guest speaker will be Catherine Adcock from COTA. For further info, contact Cheryl (chanily3@bigpond.com) by 14 July.
Queanbeyan: Next meeting is on Thursday 17 July, 12 for 12:30pm at the Tourist Hotel on Monaro Street Queanbeyan. Our guest speaker will be Marina Siemionow – Canberra Lung Life Support Group. RSVP to Sue on 0448 427 237 or
by LILLIAN ALTMAN
Narrabundah resident Geoff Charlton has vivid memories of visiting the opening ‘gala’ at the Canberra Theatre Centre on 24 June 1965.
“I remember it very well, I was in the (Canberra) Philharmonic Society in those days, and we were invited to become part of the audience,” he told media.
“We went to the opening night where they performed Swan Lake, the Melbourne Cup ballet and other things and I can still remember the whole picture; it was wonderful.”
The Civic venue opened on 24 June 1965 with a ‘gala’ performance by The Australian Ballet, according to the ACT Government’s ArchivesACT.
“Opening night saw a performance of Act 2 from Swan Lake, Robert Helpmann’s first work choreographed for the company, The Display, and Melbourne Cup, the first work commissioned by The Australian Ballet.”
Mr Charlton said the venue was packed out. He said the evening included a “terrific” fanfare [a ceremonial tune] by Terry (Terence) Vaughan, the venue’s founding director.
He even had in his hand a program from that first show he had kept.
CW asked Mr Charlton how it felt being back at the theatre for the anniversary celebration.
“Wonderful. Happy it’s still here,” he said.
Canberra Theatre Centre director Alex Budd said that among the guests over the past 60 years were ambassadors, prime ministers, and Hollywood A-listers.
“And at one point, even Queen Elizabeth II, who just by chance, attended a performance of Carmen by The Australian Ballet in 1973,” he said.
The Australian Ballet’s current artistic director David Hallberg said 60 years was a huge milestone. Fortuitously, the company is here during the anniversary with their production of Carmen
“Carmen, I think, is the new face of The Australian Ballet,” he said.
“When I think 60 years ago what we brought to open the theatre, it was a repertoire of its time.
“It was Swan Lake, but Carmen is really showing what has evolved in the dance world and showing how theatre has evolved.
“It’s a really compelling, energetic ballet and super proud to be bringing it back and celebrating this milestone.”
Also present at the celebration were former employee Alex Sciberras, who began work at the venue the day it opened, Member for Canberra, Alicia Payne MP, and ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr (who cut a cake which was in the shape of the theatre).
Cosy up this winter at Trevino’s
Escape
Located
This week, Michael Popple reviews amazing books from two talented, upand-coming Australian authors. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.com
Sins of the Fathers by John Byrnes Macmillan, $34.99
John Byrnes presents another outstanding, multi-layered historical novel that follows several troubled youths through the roughest years of Australian history: Sydney, 1910.
When a violent incident sees both the fathers of impoverished brothers Billy and Tommy Smith and wealthy teenager Charles Davies die, a bloody feud erupts that will shape their futures. With revenge following all three youths through World War I and on to Darwin and the goldfields of Lightning Ridge, will any of these boys escape the dark sins of their fathers?
Byrnes has pulled together another excellent, character-driven story that features the same great style he utilised in The Youngest Son Following multiple gripping narrative threads through key events of 1910s Australian history, Sins of the Fathers quickly draws the reader in and keeps them engaged with its powerful plot and intriguing settings. Clever and exciting, this is a captivating third book from Byrnes. Highly recommended.
Broke Road by Matthew Spencer Allen & Unwin, $34.99
Following on from his debut, Black River, former journalist Matthew Spencer showcases a particularly enthralling murder mystery in the exceptional novel Broke Road
When a woman is found brutally murdered in her Hunter Valley home, Homicide Detective Sergeant Rose Riley is assigned to the case. Discovering a grisly scene, Rose attempts to uncover the killer and soon finds ugliness amongst the surrounding picturesque vineyards and resorts. Once again teaming up with journalist Adam Bowman, Rose unearths connections between her case and other similar murders throughout Australia, and must uncover all the secrets residing in a sinister small town where someone is always watching.
Broke Road is an impressive and addictive novel that perfectly blends a complex mystery with damaged characters and a nuanced outback setting. A compelling sequel to the author’s first novel, Broke Road will hook you early and keep you engaged all the way to the thrilling and shocking conclusion.
by GEORGIA CURRY
What colour do you wear when you’re about to meet Australian fashion icons Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson?
The answer is: just wear colour, because these two fashion designers are not black and white but rather an explosion of Australia’s natural palette.
Kee wore a waratah-themed jumper because “I’m a waratah goddess”, Jackson modelled a black opal number because “why not”, and I wore, sigh, a black suit.
The fashionable duo was in Canberra on Wednesday 25 June to gift more than 80 of their designs to you, the public, via the National Gallery of Australia (NGA) – now the largest holder of garments by Kee and Jackson.
These are rarely seen designs from one of the most influential creative pairings in Australia’s
cultural history.
If you’re not familiar with their pioneering work, you may know that one of Kee’s famous knitwear – a Blinky jumper – was worn by none other than style icon Princess Diana at a polo game at Windsor Castle in 1982.
That same year, Karl Lagerfeld incorporated a couple of Kee’s designs for his first Chanel collection.
Kee and Jackson’s enduring collaboration has plenty of clout in the fashion world with their bold and fearless fashion designs and when asked if they were feminists, Kee said, “no, that’s just the way we are”.
Their individual careers span more than four decades, and the pair said they were “honoured” to have their personal collections acquired by the NGA. After all, fashion is a work of art.
Jackson said that she was inspired by the
dynamic colours of French artist Henri Matisse, whose priceless works hang just down the corridor from her own ensembles.
Her choice of outfit today was quite fitting –black opal inspired – as it just happens to be the theme for the Canberra Theatre Centre’s historic stage curtain and carpet, not to mention Canberra’s annual Black Opal Stakes horse race.
Included in the NGA’s acquisition are rare hand-painted silks, vibrantly patterned knitwear and original designs that defined their art.
Kee’s and Jackson’s iconic creations are on display at the NGA until July 2026.
The Pirates of Penzance
3 - 13 JUL
Come and join Queanbeyan Players for a rollicking adventure with the Pirates of Penzance while we celebrate our 60th Anniversary of bringing great musical theatre to Queanbeyan and the region. Amazing full cast and orchestra creating great harmonies and much laughter.
abuse, thousands of Australians are running seven marathons in seven states over seven days, including in Canberra, to raise awareness for Bravehearts and child protection.
Bowen Park, Barton, Saturday 5 July, 7am-1:30pm; fundraise.bravehearts.org.au/ event/777marathoncanberra2025
The Q, Queanbeyan, 3-13 July, various times; theq.net.auoccae nesequi FAMILY
Zoocation
7-10 AND 14-17 JUL
From cancer survivors to police detectives, teachers, parents, and survivors of childhood sexual
National Zoo and Aquarium, 7-10 and 14-17 July, 9:15am-4pm; nationalzoo.com.au/groupseducation/zoocation
Visit the zoo these winter school holidays and unravel the mysteries of the animal world! Have your children bring all their burning questions to us instead! We’ll answer them all!. THEATRE
The Nutcracker in July
11-13 AND 18-20 JUL
A family-friendly ballet full of magic and winter fun with kid’s activities and a sensory-friendly session.
Canberra College Performing Arts Centre, 11-20 July, 12:30 and 6pm; 6thposition.au/thenutcracker
Find more listings at canberradaily.com.au
HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP?
Contact Anand on 0432 887 457 or anand@newstimemedia.com.au
Iconic Australian brand Rosella is celebrating 130 years. A crispy meat pie or hot sausage roll smothered in Rosella tomato sauce, or a cheese platter with fruit chutney on the side are as Aussie as kangaroos and Holden cars. For 130 years, Rosella has been a beloved staple in Australian kitchens, adding a rich burst of flavour to meals and snacks. This year, the iconic brand proudly celebrates over a century of quality, tradition, and unmistakable Aussie taste. Loved for its rich, authentic flavours, Rosella’s two signature products, Rosella Tomato Sauce and Rosella Fruit Chutney have become a part of Australia’s culinary tradition. The limited-edition anniversary bottles will be available in grocery stores nationally from May. Visit rosella.com.au for more information.
To celebrate the 130th birthday milestone, Rosella is giving away a prize pack worth over $200 featuring products and merchandise.
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 11 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
wi DR VIVIENNE LEWIS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA
Ever noticed that when the temperature drops and the sun goes missing, so too does your mood? You’re not imagining it, winter can genuinely make us feel more miserable. Even if you don’t have full-blown Seasonal A ective Disorder (SAD), a condition where depression hits when the season changes, the colder, darker months can a ect everything from our sleep to our social lives and for many people I work with, especially those already managing mental health challenges or body image concerns, winter tends to be a particularly di cult time. Why? One of the key culprits is sunlight, or the lack of it. During winter, shorter days mean less exposure to natural light, which plays a big
role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle, energy levels and mood. Without enough sunlight, our brains produce more melatonin (which makes us feel sleepy) and less serotonin (a chemical that helps keep our mood stable). This shift can lead to low mood, fatigue, and cravings for carbohydrates and sugar, which for some people with eating disorders can be distressing.
Another big contributor is how winter changes our activity levels. When it’s freezing outside, getting out for a walk, run or gym session feels much harder, even impossible some days. I often hear clients say they’ve lost motivation or feel guilty for not “keeping up” with their usual routines. But it’s not just about fitness. Movement plays a critical role in maintaining mental wellbeing. Regular physical activity boosts mood-regulating chemicals in the brain, helps reduce anxiety and stress, and gives us a sense of accomplishment and control. When we stop moving, it can feel like our mood and motivation grind to a halt too.
On top of all that, winter is also cold and flu season, and when we’re physically unwell,
it often a ects our mental health too. Being sick, or even just run-down, can make us feel flat, unmotivated and more irritable. For people with chronic health conditions or caring responsibilities, illness can be a major stressor. When we feel physically low, we’re less likely to reach out, exercise or eat well, all the things that usually help us feel better. It becomes a cycle that’s hard to break.
Winter also tends to limit the things that normally lift us up, like socialising, being in nature, or even just feeling warm and comfortable. It’s common to retreat from plans and hibernate. While that can feel good in the short term, too much isolation can lead to loneliness and low mood.
What helps? Try to get outside during daylight, even briefly. Keep moving in small, manageable ways, not to punish yourself, but to support your mental health. Look after your immune system with rest, hydration, and good food. Keep up social contact, even if it’s just a phone call or a quick co ee. And remember, if you’re feeling stuck or low, help is available.
wi WESLEY SMITH DIRECTOR, LIVE WELL HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTRE LIVEWELLNATURALLY.COM.AU
Nutrition always has and always will be the subject of diverging opinions; ask a dozen experts what to eat and you’ll get 12 di erent answers. Not to mention the plethora of fad diets that come and go.
So, where do you turn for an evidence-based approach that encourages eating a variety of nutrient-
dense plant-based foods that promote overall wellbeing and longevity? Dr Michael Greger is a good place to start. He’s the author of the delightfully titled How Not to Die in which he explores how lifestyle and diet choices, especially plant-based eating, can help prevent, treat, and even reverse chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
Dr Greger distils his nutritional guidance into what he calls the daily dozen: a simple, practical checklist of the healthiest foods and habits to incorporate each day.
Here’s a breakdown of the Daily Dozen and why each group matters: 1 cruciferous vegetables: Such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage
which are packed with cancerfighting compounds and support liver detoxification.
2 greens: Like spinach, kale and rocket which are high in vitamins K, C, and antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support heart and brain health.
3 other vegetables: Aim for a rainbow of colours, variety ensures a broad range of phytonutrients.
4 berries: Among the most antioxidant-rich fruits, great for brain health and reducing oxidative stress. Fresh, frozen or dried.
5 other fruits: Fiber-rich, immune-boosting, and naturally sweet—good for digestion and energy.
6 whole grains: Like oats, brown rice, quinoa which provide sustained energy, support gut health, and lower cholesterol.
7 legumes: Which include lentils, beans, chickpeas. They are rich in plant protein, iron, and fibre and
linked to a longer lifespan.
8 nuts and seeds: Good sources of healthy fats, especially omega-3s, and great for brain and heart health.
9 herbs and spices: Especially turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
10 beverages: Aim for 5–12 cups of water or herbal teas daily to stay hydrated and support detox.
11 exercise: Minimum of 90 minutes moderate or 40 minutes vigorous activity each day.
12 flaxseeds: Which gets a specific mention due to their potent omega-3 content and hormoneregulating lignans.
Rather than being a strict diet, it’s designed to be a flexible way of incorporating more whole, unprocessed plant foods into your meals to support long-term health. There’s a free Daily Dozen App to help you track your nutrition and loads of online resources to give you inspiration and recipe ideas.
Nestled in the heart of Ginninderry’s sustainable community, 12 Bonthrone Street delivers modern designer luxury with family-friendly functionality. This double-storey ex-display home o ers approximately 349sqm of living space on a generous 484sqm block, making it an exceptional opportunity for families, professionals, or anyone seeking a move-in-ready lifestyle upgrade in one of Canberra’s most exciting emerging precincts.
Step through a grand formal entrance with soaring ceilings and opulent finishes, setting the tone for the rest of this impressive residence. Three separate living areas cater to every occasion, while the open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area forms the true heart of
the home. Home chefs will adore the striking 40mm stone waterfall benchtop, 5-burner induction cooktop, premium Electrolux appliances, hidden dishwasher, and an enormous walk-in pantry for ultimate convenience.
Low-maintenance, landscaped gardens o er an easy-care outdoor space, while the peaceful street ensures a quiet lifestyle. Paddys kids park and nearby walking trails are just minutes away, and residents will enjoy easy access to Kippax Fair Shopping Centre and Belconnen Town Centre.
Combining sustainability, luxury finishes, and e ortless family living, this striking Strathnairn home represents a complete package in an outstanding Canberra location. 4 2 2 1
EER: 5.0
Auction: Sat 12 July at 10:30am
View: Thu 3 Jul, 4:45-5:15pm Fri 4 Jul, 12-12:30pm Sat 5 Jul, 12-12:30pm Or inspection as requested
Agent: Eoin Ryan-Hicks & Olivia Schultz Mob: 0424 042 419 & 0415 366 287
Hooker Kippax 02 6202 1133
Exceptional service sets us apart. Our team goes above and beyond to provide responsive, personalised support tailored to your goals. With LJ Hooker Canberra, you have some of the best industry trained professionals looking after you. They guide you through every stage with clarity, care, and dedication, delivering a stress-free experience with premium results.
Experience the difference between getting it sold and getting a great result Contact us to find out more about The LJ Hooker Difference.
www.luton.com.au
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)
You’ll outsource a problem, like hiring someone to help with tech, repairs, admin work or emotional labor. But you’ll seize the learning opportunity and pay attention to how it gets solved so maybe next time you can take it on. This is how you turn a one-time expense into a long-term investment.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)
You can have solid self-worth –you can like who you are, trust your values, even feel grounded in your identity – and still find yourself in moments where you feel out of your depth. It’s a sign that the situation might not be a great match. Take courage and speak up for your needs.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)
1 Who immediately preceded Penny Wong as Minister for Foreign Affairs in 2022?
2 The ancient Mayan city of Uxmal is a popular tourist attraction in which country?
3 Egyptian Mau and Sokoke are both types of which animal?
4 Jimmy Nail had an international hit with which song in 1992?
5 Which Ivy League university is located in Massachusetts?
This week, you’re an expert at navigating the shifting state of emotions. When it’s a sunny, warm feeling, you get out and enjoy it. When storms come in, you suit up. It’s your spirit of acceptance that makes the week productive. You don’t wait for perfect vibes– you adapt to what is.
CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)
Trust that what’s happening might serve you in ways you can’t yet see. Each hour is a gift. You don’t have to understand the gift immediately; just stay open to the possibility that one is there. Assume life is conspiring to delight you. You’re being handed exactly what you need.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)
You have a special ability to vividly imagine future scenarios –not just as ideas but as immersive experiences. You emotionally and mentally inhabit the place you’ve conceived. This is where you can spend time with the vision, reinforce it, rehearse it – and create a map to where it exists for real.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)
Because you know how jealousy can cause chaos, you avoid attracting attention that could turn into envy. Whatever hand you’re dealt, you’ll keep your cards close to the vest. Being underestimated gives a strange thrill – you get to move freely, as the real win evolves in secret.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)
Trust starts with you. You set a tone of generosity and courage. You create the conditions for collaboration that wouldn’t happen otherwise. When you extend yourself, you teach others how to meet you there. It’s not just connection – you’re creating the conditions for it to flourish.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)
Self-preservation has many looks, techniques and tricks. Here’s one to try this week: be amenable to suggestions, criticism and other input. Practice receptivity and appreciation. Then do whatever you want. This is mostly what everyone does anyway, except they skip the receptivity part.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)
A solid friendship is one that affirms emotional honesty and honours the courage it takes to simply stay present. If friends dismiss your feelings or make you feel smaller, perhaps the tie isn’t truly supportive. You’ll loosen or release bonds to make space for something more aligned.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19) Don’t fall for the surface show. The real story is always deeper, and you’re tuned in enough to sense who’s genuinely enjoying themselves, who’s performing, who’s connected and who’s faking it. And you’ll know when to engage, when to hold back and how to navigate social currents.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)
You have an intuitive sense of who belongs where and how energy, attention or rewards should be distributed. Trust that instinct. Just like animals learn their terrain for survival, you’ll understand the landscape around you to inform your next move and unlock your next advantage.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)
Others won’t see the full picture until you speak up. What you share may not be the truth – it’s your truth, but it opens the door. This week favours honesty in all forms: dreams, struggles, little daily details. The more you offer, the more connection, clarity and ease will come your way.
A result of intuition, inspiration and immense attention to detail, these are homes of a calibre rarely seen in Canberra. Only 26, 3 & 4 bedroom timeless masterpieces will be crafted. Designed by the renowned Fender Katsildis, Interiors by the discerning Department of Design, Ever will be constructed by the highly awarded team at Core Developments.
— Roof top terraces
— Wine cellars and lifts
— Up to 3 car private garages
— Smeg Linea appliances
— Soaring ceiling heights
— Provision for a pool
— Bespoke custom joinery with fire places
— Private landscaped courtyards