CWM20251218

A Premier 97 Monaro

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one of Canberra’s most coveted suburbs, this boutique townhouse offers a rare, high-appeal opportunity for developers.

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Monaro Crescent, Red Hill

Perhaps it’s imposter syndrome, or maybe it’s following in the rather large footsteps of my mum, Julie Samaras, who was Canberra Weekly’s Editor for our first 15 years, but I have been reluctant to write my own column as she did so well for years. But as we close out 2025, it felt like the right moment to say a simple thank you to our readers for another year of your support.

I had planned to finish with the ‘reasons to be grateful’ my mum often shared. However, in light of the horrific Bondi shooting that has rattled our country, it felt more appropriate to pay respect to the victims and acknowledge the extraordinary bravery of police, first responders and members of the public, particularly Ahmed al-Ahmed, who risked his life to disarm one of the evil gunmen.

Wishing everyone safe holidays, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We will return to stands on Friday 9 January.

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From Our Goodwin Family to Yours

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Shiny happy people: The Yerrabi electorate

wi NICOLE LAWDER

FORMER ACT MLA AND DEPUTY OPPOSITION LEADER

I’m a Tuggeranong resident, and for many years, Gungahlin always seemed to be full of bright, shiny, new things compared to us on the southside. Gungahlin, which makes up most of the Yerrabi electorate, was the new area that appeared to get all the attention and money, hence the song reference to ‘Shiny Happy People’ by R.E.M from 1991. Yerrabi also includes Mitchell, the village of Hall, and a couple of Belconnen suburbs.

In actual fact, people first started moving into Gungahlin over 30 years ago, so it is no longer the newest district. The population of the district is now heading towards 100,000 and recently, I chatted with local member for Yerrabi, Leanne Castley MLA, about the issues that Yerrabi residents talk to her about.

Gungahlin, of course, has the muchtouted light rail into the city. However, a recent survey by the Gungahlin Community Council found that 91 per cent of working residents are commuting outside the district daily and cited the need for improved road infrastructure and a trial Rapid Bus service to other major employment centres such as Woden, Tuggeranong and Brindabella Business Park. While the government likes to talk about the success of the light rail and the take-up of it, many people wonder why such a rapidly growing

district, which was always planned to grow quickly and be large, is perpetually playing catch-up with road infrastructure, with duplication e orts completed, underway, and still needed.

Projects such as Horse Park Drive duplication, Gungahlin Drive duplication, and a Barton Highway flyover are all sought after by locals. Why on earth these infrastructure issues aren’t addressed in the planning is beyond me. As a comparison, when the Sydney Harbour Bridge opened in 1932, it was built with a lot of future capacity for cars, trains and trams – far more than was needed at the time.

These forward planning exercises don’t seem to have landed with the ACT government, which is constantly behind when addressing the needs of the district.

Another lesson the ACT government seems unwilling or unable

to learn is the economic impact of closures for the light rail construction. When the light rail was going into Gungahlin, many businesses struggled and folded. Now we see similar catastrophes for businesses in Civic due to light rail construction impacts.

The same survey also revealed other community priorities, including the need for economic development in the town centre, healthcare access, planning concerns, safety concerns, and environmental priorities.

It seems that, despite being a newer area of Canberra, Yerrabi has many local suburban maintenance issues.

So, while to Tuggeranong residents, Gungahlin seemed to be the new area, with lots of money spent on it, it has its own issues: some in common with the rest of Canberra, and others unique to the district.

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A more confident way to start your h e build Wood and Co Constructions:

Building a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions a Canberra family will ever make. For Wood & Co Constructions, transparency and education underpin every step of the process. Getting things right upfront isn’t about expecting problems — it’s about clarity, confidence and giving families a smooth, predictable experience from the very beginning.

“As a mum and a business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how early guidance shapes confidence,” Kylie Wood says. “It’s why I care so deeply about school programs and rebuilding the trade knowledge Canberra was built on. When we invest in young people early, the whole industry becomes stronger.”

Many families naturally compare quotes, but the

lowest figure isn’t always the most cost-e ective. Some builders leave out key components — engineering, drainage, energy e ciency compliance, or ACT-specific requirements — to stay competitive on paper. These items don’t disappear. The goal isn’t to frighten families, but to explain why clarity early protects both your expectations and your budget.

Some families choose to invest in a detailed quote early, while others simply can’t — especially first-homeowners working carefully within a fixed budget. That’s completely okay. An initial quote is always the first step, o ering a realistic ballpark to begin planning.

Even at this early stage, Wood & Co take the time to walk your block, explain your plans and talk through your site conditions. It’s not just paper — it’s guidance.

“I want families to feel confident about what’s in their plans,” Director Andrew Wood explains. “A good builder should be able to walk you through it in plain language. If they can’t explain your home to you, they shouldn’t be building it.”

“As a mum and a business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how early guidance shapes confidence.” — Kylie Wood

If you decide to move forward, a detailed pricing stage becomes valuable because it reflects the many hours of coordination, engineering checks and certification work needed for an accurate, buildable price. To keep the experience transparent, Wood & Co always recommend working with an independent design team — separate from their company — so clients never feel locked into one path if the fit isn’t right. One of the least understood components of building costs is insurance. Today, 13–20% of a project’s cost is made up of mandatory insurances alone — not materials, not labour — simply the minimum required for a builder to legally undertake your project. Good builders include these items

upfront because it gives clients a steadier, more predictable path through their build.

Why we cover more upfront

We try to include as much as we can early so families aren’t surprised later by items that should have been considered from the start. It’s not about increasing the price — it’s about providing clarity, confidence and stability from the first conversation.

Canberra has also lost much of its old-school building wisdom — the practical knowledge passed down through decades of hands-on experience. Rising overheads, compliance demands and insurance pressures have forced many experienced trades into early retirement. Rebuilding that foundation starts with schools, apprenticeships and meaningful mentoring. Kylie believes this is where the industry’s future truly begins.

Ask questions — It protects you

what’s included, what’s excluded, whether ACT compliance has been allowed for, and whether the builder can explain both your engineering and architectural plans confidently.

Local knowledge matters

ACT regulations are some of the strictest in the country. Working with a builder who understands them prevents delays, redesigns and unnecessary complications. Local experience isn’t just helpful — it’s protective.

“We include more upfront so your build starts with clarity, not surprises.”

Good builders welcome questions. The more clarity you have, the smoother your build becomes. Ask

Why reputable builders charge for detailed pricing

A free quote is often only a sketch; a detailed one is a foundation. It represents careful coordination with engineers, suppliers, trades and certifiers. It’s not about the fee — it’s about accuracy, confidence and mutual trust.

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From first conversations to final plans, Wood and Co Constructions give confidence at every stage of the building journey.

Building with clarity from the very beginning is central to Wood and Co Constructions’ family-focused approach.

Federal government must accept Jillian Segal report after Bondi massacre

wi BILL STEFANIAK AM RFD FORMER ACT OPPOSITION LEADER

Make no mistake, the massacre of 16 people at a Jewish festival on Bondi Beach last Sunday was the worst mass killing in Australian history. It was even worse than the slaughter at Port Arthur in 1996 by mass murderer Martin Bryant, who was a madman but was not driven by racist hatred.

Some blame has rightfully been laid at the feet of the federal government, whose craven appeasement of pro-Palestinian demonstrators has contributed to the rise of a particularly vicious strain of antisemitism in this country, which is now well out of hand.

This could have been nipped in the bud

had immediate and decisive action been taken in response to the appalling antisemitic demonstrations at the Sydney Opera House on 8 October 2023. The prompt deployment of the NSW riot squad to shut down the protest, along with the immediate arrest and charging of the hate preacher in Lakemba, would have sent a clear message that antisemitism has no place in Australia.

Alas, that did not happen. The weekly antisemitic marches were allowed to continue, and the antisemites grew bolder.

In any tragedy, there are often moments of extraordinary heroism and kindness that restore faith in humanity. One such act was the brave tackling of the 50-year-old terrorist gunman by Ahmed el Ahmed, a 43-year-old father of two, who appears to be Muslim himself. He disarmed the older man and, in doing so, saved countless lives.

I hope the money raised to recognise his bravery well exceeds the million-dollar mark, and that he is awarded the highest civilian honour for bravery.

Where to from here? I suggest that, as a nation, we can do two things.

Firstly, the eminently sensible report and recommendations made by Albanese’s hand-picked Commissioner for Antisemitism, Jillian Segal, must be acted on immediately. At present, it appears the Prime Minister has placed the report in the “too hard” basket.

Secondly, I call on the Prime Minister and his entire cabinet, all federal Greens members, all members of the NSW Parliament, and any other politicians of goodwill to organise a march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge to show solidarity with our grieving Jewish Australian brothers and sisters.

The theme of the march should be simple. It should state plainly: “We support our fellow Jewish Australian citizens.” Nothing more, nothing less. Keep it simple.

Any attempt to water this down into a vague “march against hate” or a protest against undefined terrorism would be a meaningless cop-out.

CO N T R IBU

Local champions celebrated at Chief Minister’s Inclusion Awards

Canberrans who are making our city more inclusive and accessible for people with disability have been celebrated at the Chief Minister’s Inclusion Awards.

The annual awards recognise local champions who are making a real difference in the lives of people by breaking down barriers in ACT workplaces, businesses, cultural spaces and communities through

innovative and inclusive initiatives.

“Our community benefits when inclusion is a priority and when the needs and rights of people with disability are valued,” ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.

“These awards highlight the many practical actions we can all adopt to make our society more accessible for all Canberrans.”

The 2025 Awards and winners are:

Leader in Inclusion

Emma Myers is a screenwriter, actor, disability advocate and Federal Parliamentary Press Gallery journalist. As a co-creator and co-writer of Australian comedy television series Latecomers, Emma highlighted the intersection of womanhood, sexuality and disability – heralding an important shift in how people with disability are depicted on screen.

Excellence in Inclusive and Innovative Employment Practices

Raffy Sgroi has created accessible and inclusive workplaces across her multiple businesses, implementing groundbreaking workplace modifications

and adaptive technologies.

Excellence in Collaborating with people with Disability

Stellar Company and the Chamaeleon Collective – The Chamaeleon Collective, established in 2020 by The Stellar Company, is an inclusive dance company providing professional dance opportunities for dancers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Excellence in Access and Inclusion

Tahlya O’Toole ensures genuine inclusion is achieved by continually exceeding industry minimums through proactive, culturally safe, inclusive and personcentred service delivery in her role as Founder and Managing Director of Enabled Disability Services.

Excellence in Innovation and Impact

Eloise Higgins has consistently enhanced the inclusion of people with disability through her role as Manager of Canberra’s STEM-learning studio, Daydream Machine.

Sue Salthouse Award for Championing Human Rights and Equality

Ebe Ganon has amplified the voices of people with disability in policy discussions both nationally and internationally, including in her role as Board Chair of Children and Young People with Disability Australia.

Emma Myers and ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr.

‘Best

character’: heroes save lives in Bondi shooting

by TOM WARK, AAP

While terror reigned on Australia’s most famous beach, local heroes stepped up by putting themselves in harm’s way to protect innocent strangers.

In an act of stunning courage, a fruit shop owner from Sydney’s south wrestled and disarmed one of the gunmen who opened fire at a crowd at Bondi Beach on Sunday night and left more than a dozen people dead.

At the same time, a group of surf lifesavers celebrating at their Christmas parties opened up their doors and first aid kits to help those caught in the crossfire.

Ahmed Al Ahmed, a 43-year-old father-of-two from the Sutherland region, ripped a long-armed weapon from the hands of one gunman before the passerby was injured by two shots from the second attacker. His cousin Mustafa Al-Asaad said Mr Al Ahmed was shot in his left shoulder and hand.

He recounted his cousin, an Australian citizen who originally hailed from Syria, telling him that “God

granted me courage to jump on the gunman”.

“He wasn’t thinking of death when he saw bullets flying in the air,” Mr Al Asaad told BBC Arabic overnight.

An online fundraiser to recognise the small business owner for his bravery had raised more than $270,000 by late Monday morning.

Surf lifesavers at Bondi and North Bondi were in their clubhouses celebrating Christmas when the gunfire erupted outside.

Multiple volunteers ran out under fire to perform CPR and provide first aid, Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive Steven Pearce said.

“Surf Life Saving is a front-line emergency service and that was never more important than last night,” he said.

“There is not a bandage or a Band-Aid left in any of the surf clubs, all the boards were used as stretchers.”

The North Bondi clubhouse had about 200 people sheltering inside and receiving medical attention while the police operation continued, president Steven Lanarch said.

At least 16 people died and many more were left injured after the gunmen took aim at a crowd gathered for a Hanukkah celebration at the beach just before 7pm on Sunday.

One of the gunmen, Naveed Akram, 24, is in police custody while the other, his 50-year-old father Sajid, was killed.

Multiple videos posted to social media show the two gunmen standing on a footbridge connecting Campbell Parade to the Bondi Pavilion and firing shots into a crowd.

Footage shows Mr Al Ahmed crouching behind a vehicle in the nearby carpark, before sneaking up behind a gunman and wrestling the weapon from his grip.

The altercation sent the shooter staggering to the ground, before he got up and walked towards the pedestrian bridge from which the other gunman continued to fire.

Leaders hailed the heroes who ran toward danger to stop the attack or help the injured.

“To the brave first responders, including ordinary citizens who acted yesterday - thank you for what you do,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

“People rushing towards danger to show the best of the Australian character.”

‘Full of life’: youngest victim of Bondi attack mourned

by ADELAIDE LANG, AAP

A 10-year-old girl, Jewish community leaders and a former police officer are among 15 people killed in a mass shooting that targeted a Hanukkah festival at Bondi Beach.

Another 42 were injured in the Sunday evening attack carried out by Naveed Akram, 24, and his

50-year-old father Sajid Akram.

It’s the nation’s deadliest shooting since the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.

The youngest victim, 10-year-old Matilda, has been remembered as a bright and spirited girl who brought light to everyone around her.

“Matilda was like, full of life, happy kid, and just a normal 10-year-old girl,” her aunt Lina said.

She had gotten her face painted and was enjoying the day with her family when the gunmen opened fire.

Matilda was rushed to hospital but died overnight, leaving her family devastated.

“I don’t know how we survive such grief,” Lina said.

One of the first victims identified was assistant rabbi Eli Schlanger from Chabad of Bondi, a key figure in organising the Chanukah by the Sea event targeted by the shooters.

“For 18 years, since his marriage to wife Chaya, he has served as a rabbi and chaplain in the Bondi community,” Chabad said in a statement posted to social media.

Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman, rabbi Yaakov

Levitan and businessman Reuven Morrison were also fatally wounded in the attack.

The death of French national Dan Elkayam was confirmed by French president Emmanuel Macron, who expressed his profound sadness.

Retired police detective Peter Meagher was also among the victims of the terror attack, struck down while working as a freelance photographer at the illfated Hanukkah event.

He was lauded by his rugby club Randwick as a heart-and-soul figure.

“For much of the last decade, Marzo has been our trusted first-grade manager and this news has already hit our players, coaches, managers, volunteers and supporters extremely hard,” general manager Mark Harrison said.

The federal government would provide support for victims’ funerals and any visitor visas for relatives wishing to visit Australia for those funerals, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

State financial support will also be offered through the Victims Support Scheme, while trained disaster mental health support clinicians will be on the ground at Bondi in coming days to help the wider community manage trauma.

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The youngest victim, 10-year-old Matilda, has been remembered as a bright and spirited girl.

Landlocked but still an aquaphile

by GEORGIA CURRY

Inland Canberra is the last place you’d expect to find a thalassaphile or aquaphile (one who has an affinity for the sea or water), but Rebecca Scouller is one, and she’s just reached her goal of swimming at 25 different spots in 2025.

Rebecca admits she’s a poor swimmer, yet she’s travelled from Manuka Pool to South Australia’s Unley Pool, Victoria’s Geelong waterfront and NSW’s Jindabyne Pool to complete her swim tally. Ironically, Rebecca’s swim number 25 was at a pool where she was turned off swimming as a child due to bullying.

“So I am the kid that always came last in swimming at school, and I am still scarred from being given an encouragement ribbon in primary school, which was like double shame in the ‘80s,” she said. “It didn’t give you encouragement; it gave other kids permission to tease you. I was the small nerdy kid, so all it did was add to the bullying that I experienced.”

So her final swim reclaimed Merrylands Swim Centre in western Sydney.

Rebecca has more than made up for her rocky start in swimming by joining Canberra’s open water swimmers twice a week in Lake Burley Griffin and she’s also a

regular at Manuka Pool – her favourite swimming spot out of all 25.

professional swimmer, vaudeville star and film actress, dating back to the early 1900s.

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“A lot of regular swimmers like to break the ice, which is to be the first one in for the season at Manuka Pool,” she said. “So I did manage to break the ice this season. That was exciting, I did arrive extra early though to make sure I could jump in first.”

“My oldest swimmers, I have two pairs of Edwardian swimmers, so we’re talking early 1900s, the neck-to-knee,” Rebecca said. “I can’t really imagine swimming in them. That would be very uncomfortable; they would be weighty.

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For someone who doesn’t like the cold, Rebecca is an enigma. Not only does she swim all year round in Lake Burley Griffin (including the winter solstice nude charity swim), she once worked as a scientist at both the North Pole and South Pole (she’s been chased by a polar bear and pecked by a penguin).

“Ironically, I still don’t like being cold, but you build up to it,” she said. “I will say it does put you on a high all day. I’m also not an early-morning person by any stretch of the imagination and I get up at 5:30 to do my swim Friday mornings.”

What confirms Rebecca as a true aquaphile is her collection of vintage swimwear and chenille beach caps, right up to Ken Done and Jenny Kee swimwear from the 80s and 90s.

Her most prized possession is a revolutionary one-piece swimsuit designed by Annette Kellerman, an Australian

“I have heard, and I’ve never been able to verify if it’s true, of people potentially drowning under the weight of them, but people also weren’t swimmers, right? People didn’t learn how to swim, and then you had this soggy, heavy woollen or heavy cotton swimwear on.”

When Rebecca recently stumbled upon a new word –thalassophile – she loved it.

“It’s me,” Rebecca said. “The ocean to me always gives me a sense of peace and calm. It could be a thunderstorm or a stinking hot 40-degree day, but as soon as I see that ocean, I feel at home.

“It’s just really any body of water and so then I looked up to see if there was an equivalent, which is an ‘aquaphile’, someone who loves the water. I think I’m an aquaphile. So whether it’s Manuka Pool or Lake Burley Griffin or jumping through the surf, I just love it.”

Aquafile and thalassaphile (one who has an affinity for the sea or water) Rebecca Scouller has racked up 25 swims at different spots around the country in 2025.

Fireworks, DJs and free transport for Canberra’s New Year’s Eve

Canberra is set to welcome 2026 in style with New Year’s Eve celebrations on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.

This year’s event promises an unforgettable evening of fireworks, music, and food for the whole community.

Four areas will feature local DJs from 6pm and food trucks. Canberrans can pack a picnic or enjoy food from local vendors.

A fireworks displays over Central Basin will light up the sky at 9:00 pm to make sure Canberrans of every age can welcome in the new year.

Another display will happen at midnight, accompanied by a synchronised soundtrack broadcast live on Mix 106.3.

Canberrans can tune in to enjoy the fireworks in perfect sync with the music or enjoy a great New Year’s Eve soundtrack from home.

Travel on Canberra bus and light rail services will free all day, simply tap on and off as normal to register a zero-dollar fare.

“New Year’s Eve by the lake is a much-loved Canberra tradition,” said ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr.

“This year’s celebrations will bring our community together with spectacular fireworks, great music, and local food.

“I encourage everyone to join in and make the most of this fantastic event.”

Plan your visit!

Set up at one of the four hub areas along Lake Burley Griffin: Rond Terrace, Wendouree Drive, John Dunmore Lang Place (Commonwealth Place), and Ferry Gate (Regatta Point).

Please note: due to construction and roadworks there will not be a hub at Barrine Drive (Regatta Point) this year.

For more details, including maps, parking, and transport information, visit nye.events.canberra.com.au

Fireworks and live music will light up Lake Burley Griffin as Canberra counts down to 2026.

ACT community sector workforce pushed to the brink

Community organisations across the ACT warn that rising burnout, pay inequity, and chronic underfunding threaten the sustainability of essential services, according to new research released by the ACT Council of

Social Service (ACTCOSS).

ACTCOSS’s latest factsheet, Workforce and Wellbeing in the ACT Community Sector, draws on findings from the 2025 State of the ACT Community Sector Survey and paints a picture of a highly skilled but increasingly exhausted workforce.

The survey found 76 per cent of organisations reported staff exhaustion and burnout, while more than half of workers said they were personally experiencing emotional exhaustion.

Community sector workers earn, on average, more than $22,000 a year less than their ACT public sector counterparts, a gap that disproportionately affects women,

who make up around three-quarters of the workforce.

ACTCOSS chief executive Dr Devin Bowles said the sector was being stretched to breaking point.

“Effectively, the government is relying on the goodwill of an underpaid, highly feminised workforce to keep delivering essential services under conditions of growing burnout,” he said.

“Staff are working unpaid hours every week just to keep services running because they can see the human cost of underinvestment in their clients. They are filling the government’s funding gaps.”

The survey found more than 80 per cent of respondents held a bachelor or postgraduate degree, reflecting the complexity of work supporting clients with overlapping needs such as housing insecurity, mental health challenges, family violence and trauma.

Demand for services is also rising sharply. Eighty-three per cent of organisations reported increased demand in 2024, more than half experiencing longer waiting times, and 52 per cent were unable to support some clients.

Dr Bowles said continued underinvestment risked broader consequences for the community.

“At a time when the ACT Government is investing billions in built infrastructure like tram extensions and theatres, our social infrastructure is fraying,” he said. “If the people who care for our community are burning out, the entire community is at risk.”

ACTCOSS is calling on the ACT Government to commit to fair and sustainable funding models, address pay and conditions inequities with the public sector, and invest in workforce wellbeing and retention.

In response, the ACT Government said it recognised costof-living pressures were increasing demand for community services. It pointed to more than $250 million in funding for not-for-profit community sector organisations in

the 2025–26 Budget, along with a $10 million funding boost over two years to 140 organisations.

The government said it looked forward to considering the full State of the Community Sector Report when it is released later in 2025.

“We will continue working in partnership with the community sector to strengthen capacity to meet ongoing demand for community service supports.”

Peter Cain MLA, Shadow Minister for Community Services and Disability, said the findings showed a workforce “at breaking point”, and called on the government to address pay gaps, staffing shortages and burnout.

ACT Greens leader Shane Rattenbury MLA said the survey showed a sector in “survival mode” and urged the government to urgently deliver outcomes from a promised review of community sector funding. The Greens secured a review of community sector funding that accounts for growth in salaries, population and complexity of client need, and want to see the outcome now.

Independent MLA Thomas Emerson said it was unacceptable for workers to put in unpaid hours due to underinvestment, and has called for a sustainable funding model for the community sector.

“It’s no surprise that our community sector is under immense strain,” he said. “We can all see the growing gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’ in the ACT. A genuinely progressive jurisdiction would show more urgency in supporting the community sector in its work to keep Canberra from becoming a two-tiered society.”

Fellow independent Fiona Carrick said the findings highlighted the need for fair, sustainable funding and a plan to retain staff in the largely female workforce. “These are the people holding up the safety net for vulnerable Canberrans.”

ACTCOSS CEO Dr Devin Bowles.

Former ACT attorney-general charged with grooming teen

by GRACE CRIVELLARO, AAP

A former ACT attorney-general accused of grooming a teenage boy has successfully varied his bail conditions.

Gordon Ramsay, who was a Labor politician, faced ACT Magistrates Court on Monday for brief a pre-hearing mention.

The 61-year-old has pleaded not guilty to encouraging a boy to commit an act of a sexual nature between 2022 and 2024.

He sat quietly in court while his defence lawyer Michael Kukulies-Smith said an adjournment was required due to a delay in receiving “digital forensics”.

It was important to receive the evidence before the matter progresses further, Mr Kukulies-Smith told the court.

The lawyer also applied to change Mr Ramsay’s bail conditions, which the prosecution consented to.

The court heard Mr Ramsay’s residence

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Mr Ramsay was a Labor MLA from 2016 until 2020 when he lost his seat.

He held several portfolios, including attorneygeneral and arts minister.

Mr Ramsay focused on issues including poverty and criminalising elder abuse.

He has more recently been the chief executive of the Cultural Facilities Corporation in Canberra and worked as a commercial lawyer before politics.

The former politician was charged with grooming a teenager in October.

Magistrate Sean Richter adjourned the matter to 3 March.

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Gordon Ramsay has pleaded not guilty to encouraging a boy to commit a sexual act.

Gowrie farewells ‘Christmas Lights for MS’ – but not its legacy of Christmas joy

by BERNIE RYAN

-year-old Gowrie friends, Ben Walker and James Crowther, have been decorating their family homes since they were in primary school.

“We always enjoyed just going around and seeing the other displays, particularly in Tuggeranong,” says Ben.

“There were quite a few at the time, so we started with just a few lights around the house… and that quickly turned into an addiction that grew into a big light display,” says James.

With significant help from their parents and the support of their neighbours, Ben and James’ Christmas light displays became more popular each year.

Both say that what started it all was the joy of Christmas and wanting to create for other families what they had enjoyed as kids.

“It’s amazing to see the same families that have come back now for years…and the kids have grown up, and they’ve had more kids. It’s just crazy,” says Ben.

In 2017, the two then Gowrie teenagers realised that it wasn’t only the spirit of Christmas they had to share.

“We decided that since we had a bit of a platform and there were a lot of people driving past and coming back each year, that it would be worth doing something for a good cause”, says Ben.

Mr Crowther adds that they were inspired by other locals, like Roger and Kay of Middleton Circuit, who continue to use their light display to raise money for various charities.

“And my grandmother has MS, so we settled on fundraising for multiple sclerosis,” says Ben. Christmas Lights for MS was born.

Since then, Christmas Lights for MS has raised $125,000. Something Ben and James say they feel privileged to have been able to facilitate.

Both of them reinforce the huge commitment of their parents, families and neighbours in setting up, supervising and putting up with all that has been required.

“We start setting up in October …open the display 1 December and it runs every night until the end of December,” says James.

“So, I don’t think we could be doing what we’re doing without the support we’ve had”, he says.

This year, however, will be the last year that their homes in Stacey and Ruthven Streets will be fundraising as Christmas Lights for MS, as the two take a break for a while.

Ben and James would like to say a special thank you to their home suburb of Gowrie, which according to them both, ‘punches above its weight’.

To this end, Ben and James have partnered with St John’s Ambulance ACT to also install a publicly accessible defibrillator at Gowrie shops, which will be added to their MS fundraising effort.

And what about the lights?

James says his home in Ruthven Street will continue to put up lights each year for now.

And will Ben be back?

“Maybe, we’ll see!” he says.

You can support Christmas Lights for MS, via their Facebook page or when you visit Stacey and Ruthven Streets in Gowrie. Lights are on every night until New Year.

Ben Walker and James Crowther, whose Christmas light displays in Gowrie have raised more than $125,000 for Multiple Sclerosis over eight years. Photos: Wilson Au Yeung

Stacey and Ruthven Streets in Gowrie light up each December as part of Christmas Lights for MS.

Wrapping up a big year of giving with Canberra Hospitals Foundation

Canberra Hospitals Foundation is celebrating a surge in community generosity, with its annual GIVEMAS campaign capping off what CEO Helen Falla calls “an outstanding year.”

With major community events including the Mighty Guts Walkathon, CAN GIVE DAY, the Big Wig Challenge, Can Golf Day and the muchloved weekly barbecues run by dedicated volunteers, the team at the Foundation say they are constantly amazed by the people, community groups and businesses who show up, give their time and make a real difference for those in hospital.

Throughout 2025, community contributions have helped support the purchase of 36 pieces of advanced medical equipment, refurbish nine patient-focused spaces, and 38 therapeutic programs, and so much more to help enhance patient wellbeing across Canberra’s public hospitals.

“This year has shown, once again, just how generous the Canberra community is,” Ms Falla

said. “Every contribution, big or small, helps make the hospital experience more comforting for patients and their families.”

The festive season saw GIVEMAS reach new heights, with support pouring in from workplaces, schools, embassies, community groups, sports teams and local businesses. Highlights included a tip truck filled with toys, visits from the US Marines and the ACT Brumbies, and a special donation from CHF Patron, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn, Governor-General of Australia.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the spirit of giving,” Ms Falla said. “Thanks to the kindness of people across Canberra, patients spending Christmas in hospital will feel moments of joy when they need it most.”

Ms Falla thanked donors, volunteers and partners for their commitment throughout the year.

“We’re incredibly proud of what the community has helped us achieve in 2025,” she said. “And we’re super excited for what we can do together in 2026.”

w:

Through The Lens

Photo by Jacky Lee Luminous Dialogue

While most people moved as close as possible to the vast foreground to witness the aurora from a G4 solar storm, I chose to step away from the crowd. I found a solitary tree that seemed to speak to me: “Join me. I have witnessed the lady dance here, time and again.”

Send us your best shot of the Canberra region – it can be of anything from landscapes to city icons and more –and you could be featured.

Email your photo to news@newstimemedia.com. au with ‘Through the Lens’ in the subject line and a brief description of your photo.

A year of generosity, kindness and community support for Canberra Hospitals Foundation and local hospital patients.

have you heard?

GIVIT donation of the week: Food storage containers

GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation that provides settlement services for migrants, refugees and humanitarian entrants in the ACT region. They are seeking support for a mother who is caring for a child with special needs and experiencing financial hardship. This mum was forced to stop working after delivering twins prematurely. Sadly, only one survived and is now living with a disability. She has been experiencing loneliness and financial instability as her husband’s work hours were also reduced after surgery. Mum is determined to return to work and rebuild her career, but for now she is doing her best to move through her grief and manage the household. This organisation is seeking the donation of food storage containers to help her with meal preparation. This simple donation will help her stay organised as she tries to manage long days of caregiving. Generous Canberrans can donate food storage containers or fund their purchase. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase what’s needed. To help please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’s-needed, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘food storage containers’ and Suburb: ‘Reid, 2612’.

Boorowa Rotary Community Christmas Market

The final Boorowa Rotary Community Market for 2025 will be held on Saturday 20 December, 9am–1pm, at Old Courthouse Park, corner Queen and Marsden Streets, Boorowa. Enjoy handmade gifts, plants and festive food, plus a jumping castle, face painting, ice cream, coffee van, live music by Louise and a Rotary barbecue. A great spot for Christmas shopping and family fun.

community noticeboard

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

Omnia Adventurers and Social Club

Looking to meet new people and enjoy a range of social activities? Omnia Adventurers and Social Club is a not-for-profit group offering regular dinners and drinks, local walks, bushwalking, movies, gallery outings and more. New members are welcome. Details and membership information at oaasc.memberjungle.com.

Tuggeranong Seniors Ukulele Group

The Tuggeranong Seniors Ukulele Group is welcoming new members. The group performs regular concerts at aged care and retirement villages and is open to anyone who plays an instrument, enjoys singing, or simply wants to have fun and socialise. No experience is required, just a willingness to join in and sing along. Enquiries: Roy 0468 367 873.

Christmas Labyrinth in Lights

While viewing the Belconnen Christmas lights on 18–20 December, drop into 8 Chomley Court, Evatt, to explore the Christmas Labyrinth in lights at Mosaic Baptist Church from 8–10pm. Wander the labyrinth, reflect on the meaning of Christmas, and step inside for a photo in provided costumes. Free entry.

Sahaja Yoga Meditation

Free Sahaja Yoga Meditation classes are held every Wednesday, 6–7pm, from February to the end of November 2025 at Erindale Neighbourhood Centre, corner Sternberg Crescent and Comrie Street, Wanniassa. All welcome.

Braidwood Book Fair

The Braidwood Book Fair returns over the January long weekend, Thursday 22 to Monday 26 January 2026, 9am–4pm daily. Browse fiction, non-fiction, puzzles, records and more. All welcome.

Meditation Classes for Beginners

Beginner-friendly yoga and meditation classes will commence in the first week of January 2026 in Harrison (Gungahlin). Sessions run every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6:15–7:15pm, covering yoga poses, breathing practices and guided meditation. Meditation-only classes are also available for those who prefer not to do yoga. Bookings essential via sdmission.org

Sunday Brunch Toastmasters Club

Build confidence in public speaking in a friendly, supportive environment with Sunday Brunch Toastmasters. The club meets on the second and fourth Sunday of each month, 10am for a 10:15am start to 12pm. Meetings are held in person at the Australia Croatia Club, 68 McCaughey Street, Turner, or via Zoom. Guests are welcome. Details: sundaybrunchtoastmastersclubs.org or email sundaybrunch1015@gmail.com.

Merry Christmas

Canberra Weekly is taking a short break over the Christmas and New Year period, with the magazine returning to stands on Friday 9 January 2026. Our website, canberradaily.com.au, and social channels @canberradaily will continue to be updated throughout the holiday period. We wish all our readers a safe and happy festive season.

PUZZLES & STARS

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)

You’ll be invited to an enticing role outside of your comfort zone. They think you have what it takes, and they’re onto something! Count any self-doubt you feel as inaccurate. Maybe you’re not technically qualified yet but move forward. Obstacles will fall away, and support will soon come.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)

You’ve reached a conclusion, though you haven’t acted on it. The hold-up is legitimate. Don’t rush to act. It’s better to bear the pace of life than to force your part of a plot that is much bigger than what you can now see. When the time comes, all moves with ease. You’ll be glad you were patient.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)

BRAIN BUSTERS

1 Turning Torso is a neo-futurist residential skyscraper in which country?

2 Who created the famous fictional character, Count Dracula?

3 Which king of England was the father of Queen Elizabeth I?

4 Which era is comprised of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous Periods?

5 Elisabeth Moss stars as June Osborne in which TV series?

SOLUTIONS

Your brain is a high-performance engine. Some inputs are fuel. Some are sludge. There are things working against you. You can’t change all of them, but you can notice them and make a plan. And you’ll see immediate benefits from doing whatever you can to avoid sludge and fuel positivity.

CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)

You’ll be wrapping up projects that will allow you to soon embark on a fresh start. Some things will feel complete. Some endings are like graduations, joyful and bittersweet. Some endings are just relief – not sadness. There’s no need to judge or analyse now, only to swim through.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)

You’re never working alone. Even when it’s a solo task, you’ll have invisible partners. Sometimes the universe helps more when you stop micromanaging. If an effort feels forced, consider backing off. Leave a space between you and the activity – that’s where help, or even genius, will drop in.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)

You’ll adopt a no-demands policy, neither making nor receiving them. You’re not solely in charge of every outcome. You’re in a cocreation with reality, and it’s polite to leave room for reality to do its part. You’re responsible for your efforts, not the timing. Relax, pick what’s ripe and do what’s easy.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)

You’ve been comparing yourself to an ideal version of yourself. The stress this causes is not about low self-esteem but high expect-ations. You have a vision of yourself, and anything less feels like being behind. Let yourself be in-progress. You’re nearing the ideal. Let that be enough.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)

As you were the most mature person in the room, you assumed the role of the emotional babysitter. Now you’ll be expected to: soothe someone, carry the vibe or the conversation and more. What’s in it for you? This emotional labour should, in one way or another, be compensated.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)

Some people can occasionally deliver the goods. You do it often. This week highlights a specific truth about you, and about how real success works. The magic isn’t in bursts of brilliance but in always returning, sometimes imperfectly, sometimes slowly, but steadily. How it accumulates!

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)

This year, you’ve worked your way past a thousand obstacles. Each time it felt like “getting through a situation” but it was also “creating yourself” as a stronger, betterinformed and skilled force in the world. The tangible outcomes will be glorious and well-deserved, so enjoy them this week.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)

You’ll see your options clearly. This is your moment to be strategic. By thinking ahead, you can often position yourself better. And you can choose to do things with people who match your intensity level, or do things solo, instead of going into arrangements where you will find friction.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)

You are saying yes a lot these days, which is much easier to do when you’re around people you know, like and trust. As for the ones you don’t know very well, it’s good to go slow, not out of fear but wisdom. It’s simply more joyful for all when it takes a while to earn the VIP pass to your heart.

DIFFICULTY RATING

Classic Vanilla Slice with Passionfruit Icing

Your Christmas starts at the Fyshwick Markets!

There’s something special about Christmas at the Fyshwick Markets. The early mornings, the buzz of shoppers fi lling their baskets, the smell of fresh seafood and baked goods; it’s a festive tradition Canberra has loved for more than 50 years.

Ingredients

• 2 sheets frozen butter puff pastry, thawed

• 1½ cups milk

• 1½ cups pure cream

• 60g unsalted butter, chopped

• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste

• ⅔ cup caster sugar

need to create an unforgettable Christmas. With butchers, greengrocers, delis, seafood specialists, bakers, fl owers and boutique stores all in one convenient location, your festive shopping becomes easier, fresher and far more enjoyable.

• ⅓ cup cornflour

• 6 egg yolks

Passionfruit icing

• 1 ½ cups icing sugar

• 20g butter, melted

• 2 ½ tablespoons passionfruit pulp (about 2-3 passionfruit)

Method

Whether you’re planning the perfect glazed ham, a seafood feast, a stunning grazing board or simply stocking up on fresh summer produce, the Markets’ long-standing local traders are ready to help you make it special. You’ll fi nd premium cuts of meat, vibrant seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan breads and pastries, handmade treats, fresh blooms for your table and so much more; all sourced with care and delivered with the friendly service the Markets are known for.

Meanwhile, place the milk, cream, butter, vanilla and sugar in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat to until sugar dissolves, then bring to just below boiling point. Remove from heat.

throughout the precinct, and plenty of spots to grab a co ee or bite to eat while you shop. Spend the morning gathering everything on your list, enjoy the atmosphere, then head home ready to celebrate.

Whisk cornflour and yolks together in a large bowl. Gradually whisk in hot milk mixture to combine. Return to saucepan and cook on medium high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils and thickens. Boil for 2 minutes, stirring.

To make Christmas shopping even easier, the Markets will be open every day from Thursday 18 December, with extended early openings: 6am on the 22nd and 5am on the 23rd and 24th; perfect for early risers, seafood lovers and anyone wanting to beat the rush.

This festive season, shop local, support Canberra traders, and experience the magic of Christmas at the Fyshwick Markets.

Line a 22cm square cake pan with 2 long strips of baking paper, allowing 2cm overhang on all sides. Trim pastry sheets to fit snugly in pan. Place 1 sheet in the base. Pour in warm custard mixture. Top with pastry sheet and press down gently. Chill for 4 hours, or until set firm.

This season, the Markets are once again your one-stop destination for everything you

A bakery classic with an Aussie Christmas twist, this vanilla slice is finished with bright passionfruit icing that’s perfect for summer entertaining.

And because we know the lead-up to Christmas can be hectic, the Fyshwick Markets make the experience simple and stress-free. There’s tonnes of free parking, easy access

Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan forced. Place each pastry sheet on a large oven tray lined with baking paper. Cover with baking paper and weigh down with another tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until crisp and golden. Cool on a rack.

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM THURS DEC 18 - CHRISTMAS

MON 22: 6AM - 5.30PM TUE 23: 5AM - 5.30PM WED 24: 5AM UNTIL CLOSE

CLOSED FROM DEC 25 - JAN 1

REOPEN ON JAN 2, 2026

Merry Christmas from the Fyshwick Markets 36 Mildura Street, Fyshwick ACT 2609 W: fyshwickmarkets.com.au

Meanwhile, to make the passionfruit icing, place icing sugar and butter in a bowl. Stir in passionfruit pulp until smooth. Spread icing over slice. Chill for 30 minutes or until set. Lift slice from pan. Cut into squares or rectangles.

Recipe and image from Australian Eggs.

Christmas ham, sorted

Christmas ham is a centrepiece of the Australian festive table, bringing people together long after the wrapping paper is cleared away. These recipes and images celebrate a couple of ways to enjoy it.

Orange marmalade & mustard glazed ham

Ingredients

370g jar sweet orange marmalade

1/3 cup brown sugar

¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

¼ cup maple syrup

2 tablespoon Dijon mustard + extra to serve

½ teaspoon All Spice (optional)

Method

Make the glaze a few hours before glazing the ham (see tips). Place all glaze ingredients into a medium saucepan. Stir to combine. Bring to the boil, stirring often, over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until reduced by one-third. Transfer to a heatproof bowl. Set aside to cool to room temperature.

Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan-forced.

Score the ham fat crossways using a small, sharp knife at 1cm intervals. Wrap the ham hock in foil (this prevents it from burning).

Place ham on a greased wire rack in a large baking pan lined with foil (see tips).

Christmas leftover ham & apple sauce pan-toasted sandwich

This pan-toasted ham and apple sauce melt is the perfect way to turn festive leftovers into something a little special.

Ingredients

4 slices bread of your choice

Butter, for spreading Mayonnaise, for spreading

Dijon or American mustard, for spreading

¼ cup apple sauce

200g thinly sliced leg ham

4 Swiss cheese slices

Olive oil spray or oil

Crisps and dill pickles, to serve

Method

Brush the ham fat with the glaze. Bake, brushing with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes, for 1 hour or until evenly caramelised. Remove from the oven. Allow the ham to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

Slice and serve ham, warm or cold, with mustard. See tips for a Festive serving suggestion.

You can make the glaze up to 3 days ahead. Cool, cover and store in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before using.

A Festive serving suggestion:

Remove the foil and wrap the hock in a strip of folded baking paper, then secure with string or ribbon. Tuck in some fresh bay leaves and rosemary or a native flower.

Place bread onto a board. Spread with butter, mayonnaise and mustard.

Dividing ingredients evenly, top 2 slices of bread with sliced ham, apple sauce and cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Top, mustard-side down, with the remaining bread. Lightly spray or brush with oil.

Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Add sandwiches and cook, lightly pressing occasionally with a cooking slide, for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and the cheese has melted.

Serve immediately with crisps and dill pickles.

Recipes and images from Australian Pork

Hallyu! The Korean Wave now sweeping Canberra!

by BERNIE RYAN

The first exhibition of its kind to showcase one of the most influential global cultural movements of our time, Hallyu! The Korean Wave opened on Friday 12 December, exclusively at the National Museum of Australia.

Developed by the renowned Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum in London, and the vision of Dr Rosalie Kim, Curator, V&A, this groundbreaking exhibition deep-dives into the Korean creative industry and the impact of this cultural juggernaut on global cinema, drama, music, fandom, tech, beauty and fashion.

Hallyu, meaning ‘Korean wave’, refers to the phenomenon of Korean popular culture exports, which are synonymous with addictive pop hooks, binge-worthy film and dramas, innovative tech, edgy fashion, offbeat beauty trends and moreish street food.

Few would be unaware of Korea’s first true global cultural breakthrough in the viral video hit, ‘Gangnam

Style’, by the artist PSY in 2012.

‘Gangnam Style’ was the first YouTube video to reach 1 billion views, and arguably transformed YouTube into the primary global music launchpad it became.

At the 2020 Academy Awards, the 2019 Korean film Parasite achieved what Korea had never done before, becoming the first non-English-language film to win Best Picture and the first Korean film to win any Oscar, let alone four.

In 2021, Netflix series Squid Game became the platform’s most-watched series ever shortly after it was released.

And now in 2025, it seems there aren’t many Australian primary school children who aren’t watching KPop Demon Hunters on repeat. As a result, the animated film with an award-winning soundtrack has become Netflix’s most-watched film ever.

Is it luck that has Korea now proving that it can set, not just emulate, global pop culture?

Not according to National Museum Senior Curator

Kate Morschel, who spoke at the exhibition’s launch on Friday, where a special performance by Australian K-pop dance group DARE Crew exemplified the momentum of hallyu, which shows no signs of easing.

“The 20th century was a very turbulent period for Korea… The expression of hallyu and its various forms today has been the result of very strategic government policies and the support of investment in arts and culture and creatives, but also generations of Koreans that have seen their culture change over time and want to celebrate it and express it to the world”, Ms Morschel says.

“Hallyu is a contemporary cultural movement. It’s happening now and people are deeply immersed in it, in all its expressions.”

Dr Kim agrees that hallyu was, and is, a result of intentional development on the Korean peninsula.

“Hallyu is actually… a consequence. And so, the hybridity that many people talk about in K-pop, for example, and in cinema comes from this heavy historical, sort of development.

When Dr Kim started thinking about hallyu as an exhibition around 2017 – 2018, she wanted it to be a way for people to explore Korean history.

“I want people to understand that hallyu is not just something… nice and entertaining… It’s very much anchored in Korean history and Korean culture, and we are taking this opportunity to attract people with Hallyu! The Korean Wave and then show them something bigger behind it,” Dr Kim says.

The interactive and multi-sensory exhibition, featuring more than 250 objects, combines music, tech, costumes, film props, video, photographs and pop culture ephemera to explore the living cultural movement that is Hallyu.

Exhibition highlights include the pink suit worn by rapper PSY in the Gangnam Style video; iconic Squid Game guard and player costumes; fashion; an interactive K-pop dance challenge and the iconic bathroom set from Parasite

Hallyu! The Korean Wave is on show at the National Museum of Australia until 10 May 2026. Hallyu and Beyond is a free atrium display and is on show at the Museum for the duration of the Hallyu! exhibition.

Hallyu! The Korean Wave has opened at the National Museum of Australia, exploring the global impact of Korean pop culture across music, film, fashion, tech and fandom.

Photos: Wilson Au Yeung

Paperbark Camp, a peaceful retreat near Jervis Bay

by VINCENT SAMARAS

Tucked away among towering paperbark trees on the edge of Jervis Bay, Paperbark Camp feels worlds away from everyday life. From the moment you arrive, there is a sense that things are about to slow down, and I was fortunate to experience that firsthand during a recent two-night stay.

Arriving, you drive down a dirt road for a few minutes, with the forest gradually closing in, before being greeted by the raised main building, which is home to the restaurant. Elevated above the bush, it immediately sets the tone for the stay, offering a glimpse of the peaceful setting that surrounds the camp. From there, it is on to the luxury tent, reached via a winding path through the trees. Close by yet far enough away to feel genuinely private, the tent feels tucked into the landscape, creating an immediate sense of calm.

The first thing you notice is just how present nature feels, with the sound of kookaburras laughing in the distance and smaller birds darting between the trees. Throughout the day, wildlife makes regular appearances. Along with the abundant birdlife, I

spotted kangaroos, lizards, a possum, a ladybug and more.

The tent itself featured a large king bed and a private open-air bathroom, complete with a shower and bath. Canvas walls allow the sounds of the bush to filter through, while adjustable panels and windows mean the space can be closed off when desired.

Dining is another highlight of the experience. The camp’s raised restaurant, The Gunyah, overlooks the surrounding forest, offering a peaceful vantage point to enjoy your meal. Dinner is a relaxed affair, with the thoughtful four-course set menu designed to be enjoyed slowly.

Breakfast, which is included with the stay, is just as enjoyable. There are several options to choose from, and I went with the poached eggs on toast with herb yoghurt and bacon. Starting the day surrounded by nature felt like the perfect way to start the day.

For those keen to get out on the water, Paperbark Camp also offers access to canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, making it easy to explore the calm waterways nearby.

While Paperbark Camp feels wonderfully secluded, it is also perfectly positioned for discovering

Murray’s Beach is a must-visit when heading to Jervis Bay.

some of the South Coast’s most beautiful spots. Just a short drive away are the coastal towns of Huskisson and Vincentia, where you will find relaxed cafés, local shops and easy access to the water. The camp also sits close to Jervis Bay and Booderee National Park, home to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.

A visit to Murray’s Beach was a highlight of the stay. Tucked within the national park, it felt remarkably secluded, even on a grey and rainy day. On a sunny day, the sand is pristine and the water takes on the most perfect shade of blue. Rocky outcrops along the shoreline invite a bit of exploring, where you might spot crabs and the occasional fish.

The standout moment came when a stingray glided close to shore, moving calmly through the shallows near the small number of people on the beach. While it is always best to keep a respectful distance, this one appeared completely unbothered, quietly going about its business as it moved through the clear water.

Paperbark Camp provided the perfect chance to unwind after a long year. It had the perfect mix of relaxation while also being so close to other towns and beaches to keep active during the day.

For those considering a stay, there are some appealing offers available throughout the year. Bed and breakfast rates start from $415 per night per couple for two-night bookings from May to August, offering a winter saving of $180 off normal rates. Stays at Paperbark Camp include a full gourmet breakfast, canoe hire and complimentary Wi-Fi. Dinner is priced at $95 per person, and the restaurant is also open to the general public.

Families travelling during the July school holidays are also well catered for. Paperbark Camp welcomes children aged five to 17 during school holiday periods, with children able to stay free during the July holidays, saving $75 per night per child.

For more information or to book, visit paperbarkcamp.com.au or call Paperbark Camp on 02 4441 6066.

Note: Vincent Samaras stayed at Paperbark Camp as a guest of the accommodation.

A peaceful bush retreat near Jervis Bay, Paperbark Camp offers a chance to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Made Here For You

Matt Curtis & Harriet Schwarzrock

The local makers behind your Canberra Christmas

Shop in store + online 11 Wentworth Ave Kingston ACT canberraglassworks.com

Extended trading Tue - Sun | 10am - 4pm from 1 - 24 Dec til 2pm Reopening 2 Jan 2026

Booktalk

This week, Jeff Popple recommends three enjoyable books for the pool and beach this summer. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly

Allen & Unwin, $34.99

Michael Connelly is one of the world’s best crime writers and his novels always make for good summertime reading. The Proving Ground takes his popular ‘Lincoln Lawyer’ character, Mickey Haller, out of the criminal court and into the equally murky world of civil litigation. On behalf of both sets of parents, Haller has filed a civil lawsuit against an artificial intelligence company whose chatbot told a sixteen-year-old boy that it was okay for him to kill his ex-girlfriend for disloyalty. The company involved is set to lose billions of dollars and is willing to go to any lengths to win. A timely and gripping courtroom drama.

Sisters of Scandal by Ainslie Harvey Affirm Press, $34.99

Ainslie Harvey’s Sisters of Scandal is a fun book to dip into. Well known for the viral internet sensation Hot History, Ainslie has taken many of the themes of her TikTok channel and expanded them into this fabulous book about some of history’s most memorable women. From Cleopatra to Mata Hari and the Asian pirate queen Ching Shih, Ainslie has tracked down those women who broke boundaries, rules, hearts and occasionally limbs to carve out their place in history. From the well-known to the obscure, Ainslie tells some great, well-illustrated stories, while also correcting the male-dominated historical record. Fun, informative reading!

Softly Calls the Devil by Chris Blake Echo, $34.99

Finally, those who prefer gritty crime fiction for their holiday reading will greatly enjoy Softly Calls the Devil by upcoming New Zealand author Chris Blake. Former hotshot police detective Matt Buchanan is enjoying the quiet life as the local constable for a small rural town on the country’s west coast. That peace is disrupted, however, when his predecessor is found murdered. The killing is linked back to the disappearance of a girl many years ago and Buchanan soon finds that the violence is not over yet. This is stellar crime writing, with great characters, excitement, intelligent plotting and a strong sense of place. Highly recommended.

Shop local and fresh for your Christmas food needs, even on Christmas Eve!

There’s no doubt about it, shopping local and fresh from the Capital Region Farmers Market is the best option for all your Christmas food needs.

There is true delight in tasting the fresh peaches, juicy cherries, mouth-watering seafood and flavourful meats combined with your support for local and regional farmers.

Capital Region Farmers Market is THE place to pick up the best and freshest this festive season and they will be back at EPIC this Saturday 20 December, with one final Saturday Market for 2025!

It’s a great chance to celebrate the season’s bounty with all the fresh fruit and vegetables, festive treats, meats and seafood, pantry staples and delicious ready-made foods, plus a big range of plant and flower growers.

“The Canberra community gets a bonus this

year with a special Farmers Market open on Christmas Eve too,” said Capital Region Farmers Market Manager, Sarah Power.

“We are overjoyed that our local and regional farmers and producers can offer our customers fresh produce right up until the big day,” Sarah continued.

Locals and visitors are invited to make Christmas Eve morning magical at the special Christmas Eve Market with the opportunity for one last stock up on everything for the perfect Christmas feast – from premium local meats and fresh seafood to berries for pavlova, and artisan goodies that will make the table shine.

“Skip the supermarket stress, shop local, support Canberra region growers and start your Christmas Day right,” said Sarah.

Capital Region Farmers Market will be open for the last summer Saturday of 2025

this coming Saturday 20 December, and again for the Christmas Eve Market on Wednesday 24 December. Both markets will operate 7am – 11:30am. For more information, visit capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au

The Capital Region Farmers Market returns to EPIC on Saturday 20 December, along with a special Christmas Eve market.

Now sh wing: Ella McCay (M)

In 2008, the young, tenacious, ambitious, idealistic and optimistic Ella McCay (Emma Mackey) is promoted to governor by her outgoing mentor. Flashing back, we learn of Ella’s fractured childhood due to her father’s (Woody Harrelson) womanising. In the present, Ella is informed by her husband Ryan (Jack Lowden) that a reporter is planning to blackmail her for exclusive access.

The project is writer-director James L. Brooks’ first in 13 years, and it shows. The title, poster, trailer and concept are straight out of the 90s, showcasing a young female professional struggling in her professional role while trying to ‘have it all’. The execution, however, is lacking. Characters are woefully inauthentic, with the majority of male characters being weak, stupid and/or villainous, with a baffling subplot involving Ella’s socially awkward younger brother that should have been cut.

Ella’s character is also confusing. While we are told clearly that she is a political star in the making, her poor, erratic choices beg otherwise. While certainly her cloying male family members make her entry into the Governor’s role chaotic with their selfishness, Ella’s professional drawbacks, as clearly and patronisingly pointed out by her mentor, still come to the fore.

Jamie Lee Curtis shines as always as Ella’s loving, supporting and fearlessly protective aunt Helen. One would be forgiven for thinking Curtis’ role was bigger, given her strong presence in the trailer. The excellent Rebecca Hall is completely wasted as Ella’s long-suffering mother.

Verdict: A loud, inauthentic, irritating mess with a questionable message. The worst cinema release of the year.

Luke McWilliams, themovieclub.net.

Viewed at Dendy Cinemas”

While the film struggles to resonate, Jamie Lee Curtis shines in her role.

Still dancing: Celebrations as Dick Van Dyke turns 100

by HANNAH ROBERTS, AAP

Beloved Hollywood star Dick Van Dyke is celebrating his 100th birthday and says he plans to exceed the milestone, explaining: “One hundred years is not enough.”

The veteran actor, known for his appearances in Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, was born on 13 December 1925 in West Plains, Missouri, and became interested in show business at an early age after watching Laurel and Hardy movies at his local cinema.

His popularity as a radio announcer led to him being signed by CBS and following some long-forgotten TV shows, he cemented himself as a household name following his performance in the musical Bye Bye Birdie, which led to him winning a Tony Award in 1961.

Reflecting on his career, Van Dyke told US news show Good Morning America (GMA): “I played old men a lot, and I always played them as angry and cantankerous but it’s not really that way.

“I don’t know any other 100-year-olds, but I can speak for myself.”

The actor, who is known for playing Mary Poppins character Bert - the all-singing, all-

dancing Cockney chimney sweep, said he still tries to dance.

“I’ve got one game leg from, I don’t know what ... I still try to dance”, he told GMA.

Celebrations are taking place across the US for Van Dyke’s birthday, including a flash mob located in Malibu, where he lives.

He is also the subject of a new documentary and has released a book titled 100 Rules For Living To 100: An Optimist’s Guide To A Happy Life.

“The funny thing is, it’s not enough. One hundred years is not enough. You want to live more, which I plan to”, Van Dyke said.

Van Dyke previously said his wife, make-up artist Arlene Silver, who is 46 years his junior, has helped to keep him young.

Silver, who married Van Dyke in a Malibu chapel in 2012, told GMA: “It’s like a privilege and an honour to take care of him and make him happy.”

Van Dyke has four children - Barry, Carrie, Christian and Stacy - with his first wife, Margie Willett, who he divorced in 1984 after 36 years of marriage.

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Dick Van Dyke says turning 100 is no reason to stop living, and he’ll just keep on going. Photo: AP Photo

Hollywood ‘devastated’ at death of Rob Reiner and wife

by HANNAH ROBERTS, AAP

Hollywood actors have paid tribute after the death of director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele, and said they feel “devastated”. Their son Nick Reiner has been charged with the murder of his parents. Los Angeles police said

their investigation “determined that the Reiners were the victims of homicide” and that their son “was responsible for their deaths.”

Reiner, 78, was a prolific Hollywood director and created some of the most well-known movies of the 1980s and 1990s, including legal thriller A Few Good Men in 1992 and romantic comedy When Harry Met Sally in 1989.

US actor James Woods said he and Reiner had been friends since they made 1996 thriller Ghosts of Mississippi together.

In an online post, he said: “The studio didn’t think I was old enough to do the part, but Rob fought for me.

“Political differences never stood in the way of our love and respect for each other. I am devastated by this terrible event.”

Frozen actor Josh Gad described Reiner as “one of the greatest directors of our time” in a post on Instagram.

“He was simply a beautiful person. Rob Reiner

and his wife Michelle were two of the most kind and caring souls you could ever imagine,” he said.

“He cared so much for those who had no voices. This loss is devastating. I cannot express how much this hurts. Love you Rob and Michelle. Thank you for all you gave us.”

John Cusack, who starred in Reiner’s film The Sure Thing, wrote on X: “Shocked by the death of Rob Reiner - a great man.”

The Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood, who appeared in Reiner’s 1994 family film North, posted: “Horrified to hear of the passing of Rob Reiner and his wonderful wife Michelle. So much love to their kids and family.”

Prominent political figures also paid tribute, including former US president Barack Obama, who wrote on X that he and his wife Michelle were “heartbroken by the tragic passing of Rob Reiner and his beloved wife, Michele”.

“Rob’s achievements in film and television gave us some of our most cherished stories on screen,” he said.

“But beneath all of the stories he produced was a deep belief in the goodness of people-and a lifelong commitment to putting that belief into action.”

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Rob Reiner is being remembered for his caring and warmth, as well as his creative excellence. Photo

Contract signed for Canberra’s new lyric theatre

The ACT Government has signed a $317 million contract to build Canberra’s long-planned lyric theatre, clearing the way for construction to begin early next year.

The new venue will be purpose-built to host largescale productions, including opera, ballet, musicals, and international touring acts that at present cannot come to Canberra due to size constraints at the Canberra Theatre Centre.

Minister for the Arts and Creative Industries

Michael Pettersson said signing the contract marked a significant milestone.

“We are another step closer to delivering a new performance space that will inspire creativity, support local talent and attract audiences from across the country,” he said.

Designed to seat up to 2,000 people, the theatre will feature a large proscenium stage, fly tower, modern orchestra pit and enhanced acoustics,

bringing it into line with venues such as the Sydney Lyric Theatre and Melbourne’s Princess Theatre. The government says the increased capacity will make large productions financially viable in the ACT.

The venue will include three seating levels, accessible seating and lifts, hospitality facilities, ticketing and merchandise areas, and a fully electric, Green Star–rated design. It will also incorporate features recognising First Nations connection to Country.

Completion is scheduled for 2028. Multiplex will construct the theatre. The design team includes Cox Architecture in collaboration with Yerrabingin, theatre specialists Charcoalblue, acoustic consultants and Arcadia Landscape Architecture. The design reflects feedback gathered through community consultation over the past two years.

The National Capital Authority granted works approval in November following public exhibition earlier this year.

Existing venues at the Canberra Theatre Centre — the Canberra Theatre, Playhouse and Courtyard Theatre — will remain open during construction.

The lyric theatre forms part of a broader transformation of the city centre, alongside light rail expansion, new active transport links, commercial

development, public spaces, a new university campus and thousands of new homes.

The ACT Government estimates that by its fifth year of operation, the lyric theatre will contribute $33.7 million annually in direct expenditure, equating to about 111,000 visitor nights.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the project would strengthen Canberra’s cultural identity and visitor economy.

“The new theatre will be a major driver of Canberra’s cultural and tourism economies, creating hundreds of jobs during the construction and operational phases,” he said.

“It will support the night-time economy, bringing thousands of people into the city centre over the hundreds of nights it will be used each year.”

Artist’s impression of the new Lyric Theatre.

Cate Blanchett on the red carpet at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards.

Dua Lipa during Paris Fashion Week. Zendaya at the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards.

Margot Robbie attends the premiere of “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” in New York.

Photo: Getty (All)

A mindful Christmas and New Year

CO N T R IBU

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

For those who celebrate Christmas, it can be one of the most emotionally loaded days of the year. We picture joy and connection, but it can also bring exhaustion, family tension, and food guilt. The pressure to make everything perfect often leaves little room for caring for the person at the centre of it all – you. This goes for New Year and the holiday season generally. The following are some evidence-based tips on how to look

after our mental health this holiday season.

Practice self-care, not self-sacrifice: It’s easy to slip into over-giving mode – cooking, cleaning, hosting and organising. But self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Taking ten minutes to breathe deeply, enjoy your co ee in silence, or go for a quick walk outside is not indulgent, it’s recovery time. Think of it as recharging your mental battery so you can be present for the moments that truly matter.

Give yourself permission to say no to things that deplete you. You don’t have to attend every event, respond to every message, or keep every tradition alive. The best gift you can o er others is a calm, grounded version of yourself.

Reflect rather than judge: The year’s end invites reflection, but reflection doesn’t have to mean

self-criticism. Instead of asking ‘What didn’t I do this year?’, try asking ‘What did I learn about myself?’ or ‘What moments brought me joy?’ Reflection done with kindness builds resilience and hope for the year ahead. Let go of the idea that growth must be visible or measurable. Sometimes, getting through a di cult year is an achievement.

Set boundaries with love: Family gatherings can be joyful, but they can also trigger stress, especially when conversations stray into appearance, relationships, or life choices. Boundaries are not walls; they are fences with gates you control. You can respond calmly and firmly, ‘I’d rather not talk about that today,’ or redirect the topic with humour. Enjoy food without fear: If Christmas food brings guilt, you’re not alone. Our culture often ties eating to

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morality, such as ‘being good’ or ‘being naughty’. But food isn’t a moral issue; it’s nourishment, pleasure, and connection. Give yourself unconditional permission to eat. Enjoy your favourite foods mindfully and notice the textures, smells, and flavours. One meal or one day doesn’t define your health. What matters is your overall relationship with food and your body.

My top three tips are:

1. Pause daily – Take a few slow breaths or step outside to reset.

2. Say no kindly – Protect your time and energy without guilt.

3. Enjoy food freely – Savour it, don’t judge it.

This holiday season, may you give yourself the same compassion you so freely give others. Because one of the most meaningful gifts of all is peace within yourself.

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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.

by JULIET BENNETT, ALEX BROOM AND DAVID RAUBENHEIMER

Food labels are intended to support healthy choices. But not all labelling schemes are equal.

Australia currently uses a voluntary Health Star Rating system. Food manufacturers can choose to add a star label to their packaging to indicate how it compares to other similar products. Or they can choose not to show a star rating on a product at all.

The Australian government is now considering making it mandatory.

But our new research on parenting and food in Australia found the Health Star Ratings are often confusing, misunderstood and have little credibility among shoppers.

If Health Stars are mandated, the system will also need a major overhaul to be trusted and useful for shoppers. How do Health Star Ratings work?

The government set up the front-ofpack Health Star Rating system in 2014 in collaboration with the food industry, public health and consumer groups.

Product ratings range from (bad) ½ to (good) 5 stars.

Calories, saturated fat, sugars and sodium decrease the rating. Fibre, protein, and the content of fruit, vegetables, nuts and legumes increase it.

The good and bad offset each other. This means companies can strategically formulate products to boost the rating and mask unhealthy ingredients.

Processing and additives – such

as sweeteners, colouring, emulsifiers, preservatives and artificial flavourings –are not part of the calculation.

Previous research has found the ratings can incentivise ultra-processed foods over minimally and unprocessed foods, and misrepresent healthfulness. Some researchers have also suggested practical ways to modify the rating algorithm to account for processing.

The Health Star Rating’s own consumer research found 74% of consumers do not understand that the rating cannot be used to compare dissimilar products.

What parents told us

In our interviews with 34 parents in Australia, participants often described the Health Star Ratings as “misleading”, “not helpful” and “on the wrong

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product”. One participant called it the “fake health star rating”. They gave many examples: Like you might buy 100% orange juice or fruit juice and it might have only half a star health star rating, but then you can buy like a box of processed muesli bars and it will have five stars. – Mother of three high school aged children, urban WA Coco Pops or Nutrigrain have three and a half star rating, and what exactly does that mean? – Mother of one primary school aged child, urban WA Participants wondered if the Health Stars were something companies paid for, a “marketing thing”.

Positivity bias

Part of the problem with the Health Stars is the positivity bias of the symbol. As one participant put it, “All stars are

good. Right?”

Another noted their children comment on the stars, saying “but look Mum, it’s five stars.”

However, parents were not convinced:

A lot of packaged stuff is rated as five stars. I’m like yeah, well, don’t know about that. It’s still packaged. –Mother of two primary school aged children, urban NSW

Participants thought discretionary foods should not have any stars. As one participant said:

The other day, we saw a mud cake and it has a two out of five star health rating. How can that be a two out of five star?… Like there should not even be a star available for this. – Mother of pre-school aged child, urban NSW

Burden on parents

Parents often disregarded the rating. For example:

This particular thing, you know, had all sorts of additives, had actually had a much higher rating than something

that actually didn’t have any additives… what I ended up buying was rated slightly lower. – Mother of two primary school aged children, rural Victoria

Instead participants used ingredients lists, apps such as Yuka, and “hours of internet research” to guide healthier choices.

But there was a sense of frustration that the burden was on them.

Participants said:

I feel like food labels are extremely deceptive and by producers, purposely confusing. – Mother of one primary school aged child, urban SA

It has to be government driven because companies won’t change unless they’re forced to by the government. – Father of two primary school aged children, urban Tasmania We need a food labelling system that works

Still, the parents we spoke to think a front-of-pack system is valuable. As one participant explained: I do think if I had a better system

for that, that would get a lot of use. –Mother of two primary school aged children, urban NSW

Parents repeatedly stated a desire for transparency over food, for information they can trust and food policies that prioritise consumer health.

As one mother put it, the “multibillion dollar” food industry will not do this on their own, and “that’s where the government needs to step in.”

If Health Stars are mandatory, how could labelling be overhauled?

Chile, Mexico, Brazil and other countries, including Canada from 2026, are now using “stop-sign” warnings to steer consumers away from the least healthy products. Large Black Octagons alert consumers to high sugar, sodium and saturated fats, and ultra-processing.

Starting in 2026, a new front-ofpackage symbol will be required on many Canadian foods and drinks that are high in saturated fat, sugars or salt. Canada.ca/en/health

Evidence shows these warning labels have improved nutrition and public health in other countries and could be an option for Australia.

We need to mandate a fit-forpurpose food labelling system that supports healthy eating. Governments should centre the voices of consumers in these and other national food policies to ensure they work as intended.

ANU examine AI’s growing role in dating and relationships

Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping how people form, manage and end romantic relationships, according to researchers at the Australian National University.

While dating apps are already well established, ANU researchers say AI is now being used at every stage of relationships —

from crafting first messages and interpreting flirting, to resolving arguments and even processing break-ups.

The ANU is running an online survey.

Researchers are keen to hear from people with a range of views and experiences, including those who are firmly against using AI in their personal lives, and those who haven’t done so before but would be open to it in the future.

Dr Anne Ozdowska said early research showed people were turning to AI for a wide range of emotional and communication support.

“We’re seeing it used as a therapist and a source of communication advice and emotional support, and that’s just the beginning,” she said.

“We’re also seeing a shift towards people asking AI questions they might previously have asked friends over dinner or drinks.”

One participant told researchers they had put a text exchange into AI to work out whether the person they were chatting to was flirting,

because they could not tell themselves.

Dr Ozdowska said while AI could play a supportive role, researchers were also seeing more concerning uses, such as “chatfishing” — using AI to deceive others online.

ANU PhD researcher Karla Kelly said the study aimed to better understand how people were integrating AI into their love lives.

“This is not something that’s been looked at from an academic point of view until now,” she said.

“If we better understand how people are using AI in their relationships, we can start to explore the social, ethical and emotional implications.”

Research Fellow Michelle Adiwangsa said the findings could help inform future safeguards around the technology.

“It’s the first step in maybe developing some better standards and guardrails,” she said.

Early survey results suggest those opposed to using AI in dating are concerned it feels inauthentic or dishonest. Those who have used it report asking AI to suggest conversation topics, help phrase messages, check tone, or assist with resolving misunderstandings calmly.

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More people are turning to AI for dating advice.

Free mental health phone support now available across Australia

Are you looking for support, or worried about someone you care about?

Reaching out can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone.

COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN is encouraging community members to take the

first step toward better mental health with the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service, a free and confidential service from the Australian Government.

Anyone can call 1800 595 212 for mental health, social and emotional wellbeing support tailored to individual needs and goals.

The phone service is free for anyone seeking support and guidance, including family members and carers.

Prudence Buist, CEO of COORDINARE said: “Mental health support should be simple and accessible. The Medicare Mental Health Phone Service makes it easier for people to find the right care, close to home. It offers a calm, confidential first step for anyone seeking help or guidance, including family members and carers.”

“When you call, you’ll speak with experienced staff who can provide advice and connect you with the right support – whether that’s a Medicare Mental Health service or another free

or low-cost provider in your area,” she added.

COORDINARE currently funds two Medicare Mental Health Centres in Moruya and Shellharbour, offering multidisciplinary teams that deliver treatment, information and support to adults experiencing moderate to severe psychological distress, suicidal thoughts or mental health crisis.

“For people who may feel unsure about contacting services directly, or don’t know where to start, the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service is a great option. You’ll speak with trained professionals who will take the time to understand your situation and work with you to find the right support,” said Ms Buist.

Medicare Mental Health Phone Service details:

Phone: 1800 595 212

Hours: 8:30am to 5pm weekdays (excluding public holidays)

Save 1800 595 212 to your phone contact list, and you’ll have support on hand when you need it most.

Medicare Mental Health is not a crisis service. If you need urgent help, call 000 or access crisis support services.

Australians can now access free mental health and wellbeing support by calling the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service.

Bondi attack trauma warning: shock, grief, anger, fear

by SAM KEITH, AAP

Health experts are urging Australians to take extra care of their mental health in the wake of the Bondi Beach massacre, warning vicarious trauma could flow from the attack.

At least 15 people were killed and another 42 injured in the shooting that targeted a Hanukkah festival, in the nation’s deadliest massacre since Port Arthur in 1996.

The attack, footage of which has been widely broadcast and shared on social media, was carried out by Naveed Akram, 24, and his 50-year-old father Sajid Akram.

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Naveed Akram was critically injured and placed under guard in hospital, while his father was killed in a shootout with police.

Mental health charity Smiling Mind expects a surge in demand from Australians in coming days, especially from parents seeking advice on safeguarding the wellbeing of children.

CEO Sarah La Roche urged parents to limit their kids’ exposure to footage of the incident and to talk about their feelings.

“It’s important to reassure children that they are safe and that they are within the safety of their parents,” Ms La Roche said.

“We also suggest not averting a conversation altogether but creating space to talk and inviting questions so that they feel supported with their worries.”

It was important parents responded honestly to children about what occurred “but in an age-appropriate way”, she said.

“Try to limit the complexity

of what you’re sharing, so think about factual explanations and focus on what’s known.”

Hundreds of locals, tourists and those attending the Chanukah by the Sea festival fled from Bondi Beach when gunfire erupted on Sunday evening, with many witnessing the carnage.

For those in the Bondi Beach area, the NSW government is setting up local mental health support over coming days and weeks.

Beyond Blue, another mental health charity, cautioned that the massacre, like other violence and acts of terror, could bring with feelings of shock, grief, profound sadness, anger and fear.

It urged people to be on the lookout for feelings of overwhelm, numbness or detachment as well as difficulties focusing or planning ahead.

Other worrying signs included irritation, being constantly tearful or mentally replaying the event multiple times, it said.

It was “normal to experience these emotions while trying to make sense of distressing events”.

“Give yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling, take care of your body and mind with rest, healthy routines and relaxation, and reach out for support if you need it,” CEO Georgie Harman said in a statement.

“Children look to adults to learn how to respond - be mindful of your own reactions near them.

“Encourage questions and explain it’s normal to feel scared or worried and remind them they are safe.”

Lifeline 13 11 14

A lifeguard kneels to pay his respects at a floral memorial at Bondi Beach.

Photo Mark Baker

When Kindness in the Classroom Becomes the Lesson That Lasts

by STACEY KERSHAW-BRANT

Few people shape a child’s life more deeply than a great teacher, not through worksheets or assessments, but through the way they make children feel seen, supported and capable. This year, one Canberra teacher has done precisely that.

When Finn, a Year 2 student attending a primary school in north-west Canberra, was asked what he would choose as a parting gift for his teacher, he didn’t think of presents. He simply said he wanted everyone to know how nice she was.

“She’s so nice to me… the best teacher on earth,” he said.

For Finn, the magic wasn’t in the lessons he sometimes found challenging, but in the moments that reassured him that he was enough, exactly as he was.

“I like the way she treats kids, especially when they are going through issues and when

she checks in quietly when someone is having a rough day.”

He recalled missing the school’s annual Market Day while unwell, and his teacher arranged for a friend to buy him a treat so he wouldn’t feel left out. A small gesture to an adult, a colossal act of thoughtfulness to a child.

Speaking to Ms Kate, it’s clear that this is no accident. Kindness in her classroom is intentional.

“We talk about practising and being kind-onpurpose,” she explained.

“The magical moments are when children independently go out of their way to put into practice the kindness strategies we have learnt throughout the year, and it starts to become a part of who they are,” Kate said.

This is the gentle, unseen architecture that shapes a thoughtful teacher’s work.

Ms Kate explains that all children have tough days, and support can take many forms, such as listening to them, taking a brain break, having a snack, going for a run, playing music, working one-on-one or in small groups, going to a quiet

space, or creating cue cards to help express their emotions.

Children rarely remember the finer details of a lesson, but they never forget how they felt in the classroom, especially on the overwhelming days. When asked what makes a ‘good teacher,’ Finn answered with the honesty only a child can offer.

A good teacher, he said, understands that sometimes you can’t always sit still. A good teacher is patient. A good teacher checks in when you’re having a rough day. A good teacher helps you feel calm, not stressed.

“Feeling calmer helps me focus. Feeling understood helps me try. Feeling supported helps me believe I can do hard things.”

And behind this experience is a teacher who loves what she does.

Ms Kate was 23 when she first thought seriously about becoming a primary school teacher, though her dad had guessed it much earlier. She had always enjoyed showing her friends new things, long before she realised it would become her calling.

For her, the privilege lies in knowing she plays a part in how children experience school.

“Outside of their time with family, they spend so much time at school, and I want that time to be as positive as possible. Watching students grow, in their learning and in themselves, is what keeps me passionate, and I am always learning about my students and finding new ways to support their growth,” she said.

Ms Kate’s proudest moments are not awards or milestones, but the look on a child’s face when they achieve something for the first time. She remembers their discoveries, their joy.

To teach is to stand quietly in the background of someone else’s triumph, and for Finn, those qualities permitted him to be himself. When asked to sum up his time in Ms Kate’s class, he didn’t hesitate.

“I want to thank her for being the best teacher I’ve ever had in my whole life,” he said.

“I feel honoured, and it is the greatest compliment I could get as a teacher. I want all my students to feel safe, confident in themselves, and have fun with their learning, and hearing that makes me feel like I am doing something right,” Kate said.

This story is dedicated to all of the teachers who guide with patience and heart, those who see a child’s potential well before the rest of the world sees it bloom.

Refresh your space for summer

Summer is the perfect time to refresh our homes with a little more life and colour. Pots in particular are a simple way to bring together refined textures, sculptural forms, and classic palettes to create a green oasis both indoors and out.

A pop of green for your greenery

The elho Vibes Round (16cm RRP $22) brightens up any dark corner with a playful pop of sage green, bringing a refreshing energy to the home. Whether

styled on a windowsill, bookshelf, or tucked into a quiet nook, it’s an easy, low-fuss way to refresh your space and style your houseplants with a clean, modern touch.

Crafted from recycled plastic and produced using 100% wind energy, elho pots bring nature into your home, while supporting a more sustainable future.

Summer sophistication

Add a touch of summer with the minimalist bubble silhouette of Borralheira Smooth Pot (14cm, RRP $14.98). Designed and made in Portugal, the highquality ceramic pot is non-porous, and suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

The soft bone glaze brings effortless sophistication to the home with a hint of whimsy, providing the perfect backdrop for your plants to pop.

Embrace nature in neutrals

Ground yourself in the serenity of nature (30cm RRP $49.98). Designed to embody balance and calm, the organic textured pattern mirrors the sway of grass in a gentle breeze. Embrace the rejuvenating spirit of the summer season by choosing a soft-leafed plant, such as a Fiddle Leaf Fig or Peace Lily.

A striking statement

The Capi Planter Ball Groove (35x34cm RRP $79) creates a stylish statement piece. Bold black and white striped grooves blend together to create a striking effect that instantly livens up any space. Whether placed indoors as a chic accent, or outdoors as a focal point, it transforms any regular houseplant into a vibrant display of summer warmth. Choose a sculptural plant such as a Monstera deliciosa or Areca Palm to complete the look.

Capture the colour of summer

Add a cheerful splash of colour to your home in time for summer with Borralheira Two Tone Pot (13cm RRP $12.98). Its golden two-tone hues create a playful yet sleek accent that instantly brings warmth and personality to your space, whether you’re styling a sunny kitchen corner or brightening a cosy reading nook. Its compact size makes it an ideal fit for desks, shelves, or windowsills, anywhere you want a pop of sunny colour to go with your greenery.

The elho, Capi Europe, and Borralheira pot plant ranges are available at Bunnings stores nationwide.

Pots are an easy way to refresh indoor and outdoor spaces for summer, adding texture, colour and life to the home.

A new era for The Pod Canberra

When Ian, owner of Pioneer Building & Maintenance, purchased The Pod Canberra, he wasn’t just acquiring a business, he was safeguarding an idea he deeply believed in. Having watched The Pod become Canberra’s most trusted secondary residence solution, Ian saw an opportunity to protect its ethos, expand its potential, and ensure local families continued to have access to high-quality, well-designed living solutions.

What hasn’t changed is the team behind it. Rob and Jacki (the original creators) are still here, now working under Ian’s leadership, along with Andrea, our dedicated Customer Service Manager. The same people who built the brand are the ones still guiding it, ensuring the integrity, honesty, and care that The Pod is known for. What has evolved is the possibility. By bringing The Pod under the Pioneer umbrella, clients now benefit from an expanded suite of services: renovations, extensions, commercial work, and fully customised solutions when a Pod isn’t the right fit. This flexibility is a major upgrade, and one

of our strongest unique selling points. Whether it’s adding an ensuite, building a larger footprint, or designing something entirely bespoke, we now have the internal capability to say “yes” more often.

The Pod remains our flagship o ering because it solves so many of Canberra’s modern challenges, including multi-generational living, rising housing costs, rental shortages, and ageing-in-place needs. As Canberra’s granny flat market continues to grow, we see The Pod and Pioneer playing a central role in shaping quality, compliant, future-ready secondary residences across the ACT.

Looking ahead, our long-term vision is clear: to continue leading the granny flat market with design excellence, transparent service, and community-first values, while expanding Pioneer’s capabilities to support Canberra families through every stage of their home-building journey.

A stronger Pod. A bigger Pioneer. And a future built for Canberra.

A new era for The Pod Canberra, combining established expertise with expanded building capabilities.

How to help your garden thrive throughout summer

With summer’s arrival, it’s time for Australians to make the most of the great outdoors. Caring for greenery during an Australian summer can be challenging, with hotter days and warmer nights often leading to leaf scorch and wilting without proper care.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, well-maintained gardens also enhance lifestyle and add real value.

To help greenery enthusiasts prepare and maintain healthy and hydrated gardens this summer, Aussie brand, Nylex, has teamed up with horticulture and landscaping expert Inge Jabara, to share smart habits to help get the most out of your outdoor space.

Water wisely and frequently

It’s crucial during a hot, dry spell to keep consistent moisture in the soil as plants will uptake more water during that time than they normally would.

Diversify

the species in your garden

A diverse mix of plants is the key to a resilient garden. Selecting species that can handle heat and variable conditions will help keep your garden looking vibrant all summer long.

“Native plants perform beautifully without constant upkeep,” says Inge. “I use around 30% natives in my designs, as they deliver year-round performance and can look good with very little maintenance.

“Plants that are native or endemic to your area are already conditioned to the local soil and climate, so they adapt faster and stay healthier,” Inge adds.

Protecting from the elements

“When temperatures reach between 30 and 35 degrees, that’s when you need to step up watering, ideally twice per day, once in the morning and again in the late afternoon after 2pm,” Inge says. “It’s a myth that you can’t water in direct sun, if your plants are thirsty, water them, just direct the spray towards the soil rather than the leaves, which can be more vulnerable to scorching in extreme heat.

Pots need extra attention too. “They dry out much faster because they hold less soil and water evaporates more readily,” Inge explains. “Check potted plants daily in high heat, especially if they’re in full sun positions.”

Watering effectively is key

While drip irrigation systems are excellent for controlled watering, during hotter spells it’s still important to hand water as well, to ensure moisture reaches deep into the soil.

“A well-hydrated garden that’s also well fed will reward you with better bud performance and overall growth,” says Inge. “Water deeply towards the roots, rather than over the leaves as you’ll want the water to penetrate, not just sit on the surface.”

Retaining moisture is key to keeping gardens healthy during hot weather and remain strong through heat stress. Mulch acts as a protective barrier, helping prevent water from evaporating too quickly while also shielding soil from heavy downpours.

“Select the right mulch for your plants,” says Inge. “For ornamental gardens, choose an organic mulch, which breaks down over time to feed the soil and support healthy growth. For Australian native gardens, stick to a single layer of leaf or bark mulch.” How to spot the signs of heat stress

Common signs of heat stress include wilting leaves, dry or brittle lawns, and foliage starting to curl at the edges. Keep in mind that some plants don’t show visible stress until they’re already severely dehydrated. Regularly check soil moisture by feeling just below the surface, if it’s dry past the root zone, it’s time to water. The soil should feel cool and slightly damp around the roots, not dusty or hard.

Designed for the style-conscious garden-lover, the new watering accessories range from Nylex blends practical, water-efficient design with contemporary, architecturally inspired style, proving that garden tools can look as good as they perform. To explore the full range visit nylex. com.au.

Inge Jabara offers expert tips on keeping plants healthy, hydrated and resilient during hot summer conditions.

Family living done right

Garran 49 Dennis Street

Set in one of Woden Valley’s most tightly held suburbs, this welcoming family home delivers space, comfort and an enviable lifestyle address. Designed with everyday living and entertaining in mind, it offers a wonderful balance of indoor and outdoor spaces.

At the rear, the private backyard is a standout. A generous deck, shaded by a pergola with adjustable roller blinds, creates a year-round entertaining zone, while flat lawn areas provide plenty of room for children to play. Easy-care greenery surrounds the space, offering privacy and a peaceful outlook.

Inside, two spacious living areas are separated

by a central dining space, with the second living zone opening directly to the deck and garden. The home’s north-facing orientation fills the living areas and two bedrooms with natural light, while every room enjoys leafy green views.

Beautifully maintained and move-in ready, the home features four well-sized bedrooms, two full bathrooms, excellent storage, ducted gas heating, reverse-cycle air conditioning and a large carport with additional off-street parking.

Just moments from The Canberra Hospital, Garran shops, quality schools, Woden Town Centre and Red Hill nature reserve, this is a truly familyfriendly home in a location that has it all.

4 2 2

EER: 1.5 stars

Auction: Forthcoming January auction –if not sold prior

View: As advertised

Agent: Jane Macken Mob: 0408 662 119

Agent: Emma Irwin Mob: 0422 415 008

LJ Hooker Woden Weston 02 6288 8888

135

Please tell me someone else is also doing this in my industry?

25% of my agent fee goes to either Hands Across Canberra or Vinnies CEO Sleepout, and owners receive a tax receipt for that 25% at settlement. Canberra’s only private social impact model of a real estate agency since 2018 At each Auction we read our Acknowledgement to Country and pay respect to our First Nations’ friends

COMING SOON FROM JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2026

• Four bedroom home Queanbeyan

• Five bedroom home in Stirling

• Three bedroom Townhouse in Turner

• O’Connor home with three bedroom three bathroom studio

• Five bedroom Chifley home with two bedroom studio

• Four bedroom home Macarthur

• Three bedroom apartment Kingston

• Two bedroom ensuite apartment City

• and a Penthouse in the Inner South

properties, please email

cs@csproperties.com.au interest in any of these

estate

Six figures or out: Income needed for typical rental

by JACOB SHTEYMAN, AAP

Australian households on less than six-figure incomes are struggling to make rent for a typical capital city house, underscoring the depth of the nation’s housing

affordability challenge.

To afford the median rental house, a household must earn more than $112,000 a year - a 51 per cent increase compared to 2019 - according to a report released by property listings marketplace Domain on Thursday.

Before the pandemic, the income required to fall below the standard benchmark of rental stress - spending more than 30 per cent of income on rentfor a median house was $74,533.

Rents have since outpaced growth in incomes, making large swathes of the nation unaffordable for many renters.

That has resulted in lower living standards for renters and made it harder for employers in many suburbs to find essential workers.

Across the capital cities, a two-person household earning average wages would spend 21.1 per cent of their income renting a typical home.

The data demonstrated a particular challenge for people on a sole income, with individual earnings sitting around $80,2000 on average, Domain senior economist Joel Bowman said.

“So for those single-income renters, it can be quite a struggle to be able to rent a typical-priced house in most of these markets,” he said.

Unsurprisingly, Sydney’s rental market is the most challenging, with $135,200 a year required to afford a median house and $130,000 for a typical unit.

While there remain some pockets of affordability in the outer suburbs - like in Willmot, where an individual on an annual income of $84,933 can afford the median weekly rent of $490 - the incomes needed for more ritzy locales closer to the CBD are astronomical.

To live in Australia’s least affordable suburbVaucluse - renters must be raking in a household income of $511,333 per year.

According to property data firm Cotality, the median rental nationally was $671 a week in September - 53.3 per cent higher than the same time five years earlier.

Over the same period, median incomes increased by just 20 per cent.

L A R G E B L O C K S N O W S E L L I N G !

Rent rises are outpacing wages growth, making much of the nation unaffordable for many people.

Photo: Dan Peled/AAP

Photos

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

Trades & Services Guide

news briefs

Federal funding for ACT non-government schools

Three non-government ACT schools will receive more than $2.5 million in Commonwealth funding for classroom upgrades under the Capital Grants Program.

St Matthew’s Primary School in Page will receive $771,954 to refurbish three classrooms and associated support spaces.

The Islamic School of Canberra in Weston has been allocated $1 million to upgrade an existing classroom block and amenities.

Holy Family Parish Primary School in Gowrie will receive $750,000 to refurbish classrooms and build two new learning spaces, including breakout areas and a teacher collaboration zone.

ACT Government denies plans for lethal wombat cull

The ACT Government has rejected claims it is moving towards lethal management of wombats, after the ACT Greens raised concerns about a draft report examining how the ACT manages wombat populations.

ACT Greens deputy leader Jo Clay said the draft, revealed through questions during the Annual Reports process, could reclassify wombats as a controlled native species, which would legally permit them to be killed by farmers, but lacked clear ecological evidence.

In response, an ACT Government spokesperson said suggestions the government was planning to authorise the indiscriminate shooting of wombats were “unequivocally false”.

ACT farewells retiring Supreme Court justice

The ACT Government has marked the retirement of Supreme Court Justice Chrissa Loukas-Karlsson, paying tribute to her contribution to the Territory’s justice system and more than three decades of service to the legal profession.

Justice Loukas-Karlsson was appointed to the ACT Supreme Court in 2018 and has presided over a wide range of complex civil and criminal matters. The government said she played an important role in the development of ACT jurisprudence and was widely respected for her independence, fairness and compassion.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr thanked Justice Loukas-Karlsson for her service, describing her career as one marked by “unwavering integrity, intellectual rigour and a deep commitment to justice”.